THROUGH OCT. 21, view Houston artist Tara Conley’s new show Lost & Found at Ellio Fine Art, a chic little gallery tucked into the 1930s-era Allen Parkway building previously home to Stages Repertory Theatre. Conley collects and fabricates elements of bronze, stainless steel and cast iron to create free-standing sculptures, wall installations, and even text pieces. Lost & Found explores the idea of connectedness and movement. –evan w. black
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH ART
Twelve-foot-tall structures are lined up to create the 100-foot-long, interactive, LED-lit Tunnel at Discovery Green, through mid-October. The park also hosts its annual Scream on the Green Halloween party on Oct. 25.
FESTIVAL
Returning to Memorial Park Oct. 11-13, the Bayou City Art Festival will showcase the works of hundreds of local and regional artists, including featured creator Ash Beheshti. The festival, with tons of food trucks and kidfriendly activities, is open each day from 10am-6pm; no onsite parking is available, but patrons are encouraged to ride the free shuttle from Delmar Stadium.
AUTOS
Tilman Fertitta’s Post Oak Motor Cars now operates a Lotus dealership in The Woodlands, showcasing the latest models, including the acclaimed Emira sports car and the upcoming all-electric Eletre Hyper-SUV.
Art
PHOTO FINISH
Among four shows opening this fall at the MFAH is a showcase of contemporary Cuban photography. Navigating the Waves (through Aug. 3, 2025) explores the art form’s evolving role, from promoting the Cuban Revolution to
All Who Wander Jorge Luis Álvarez Pupo’s 2009 photo ‘Wandering Paths No. 15,’ from ‘Navigating the Waves’ at MFAH
documenting the U.S. embargo and beyond. The diverse lineup also includes Grounded in Clay: The Spirit of Pueblo Pottery (Oct. 20-Jan. 12, 2025); Living with the Gods: Art, Beliefs and Peoples (Oct. 27-Jan. 20, 2025); and Gauguin in the World (Nov. 3-Feb. 16, 2025). –ewb
Milestone
Going for Golden
The Woodlands, the nation’s first master-planned community, turns 50 this year, and celebrates with a star-studded concert on Oct. 18 at its worldclass Pavilion amphitheater. Hear Lyle Lovett, Jack Ingram and Hayes Carll during the show, free to Woodlands residents. –ewb
Music Man Jack Ingram performs with Lyle Lovett and Hayes Carll
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH
Numbers Game JCA’s ‘Lady Luck’
DEVELOPMENT
Buffalo Bayou Park is expanding to the east, delivering connective green space, pedestrian bridges, playgrounds and programming to an underserved pocket of Houston by 2032. The original stretch of Buffalo Bayou Park celebrates its 10th birthday in 2025.
MUSIC
A reigning pop princess takes the stage at Toyota Center Oct. 27: Sabrina Carpenter brings her Short n’ Sweet tour to H-Town.
SHOPPING
High-end consignment
e-commerce brand
The RealReal is entering the brickand-mortar market. It will open later this year in Montrose Collective, with authenticated bags, jewelry and clothing from brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada and more.
MUSIC
For one night only, on Oct. 26, Houston Symphony is screening the campy cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show while playing the score live.
HOLDING at bay
Two friends who island-hopped around the Caribbean for two years fell in love with the artisanal science behind small-batch distilleries. They’ve brought their knowledge and passion to Bamboo Bay Rum, distilled, aged and blended in the Heights with zero additives, and available for purchase at Houston Wine Merchant. –ewb
On a Roll
Art NEO-POP ART features commercial and kitsch motifs of pop art from the ’50s in evolved ways. One look at New York-born, Houston-based artist JCA’s work captures the essence of the movement. JCA’s Full Plate show, on view at Anya Tish Gallery in Montrose through Oct. 19, is followed by an immersive exhibit of Dutch-American arist Hedwige Jacobs’ work, Oct. 25-Dec. 28. –ewb
Bamboozled! Bamboo Bay founders Robert Guratzsch and Matthew Barré
Things Are Looking Up
THE DISPATCH HOTELS
For the first time, the Michelin Guide has issued awards to Texas hotels, including both locations of Houston’s Hotel ZaZa, the Post Oak Hotel, and the Carr Mansion in Galveston. Its hotly anticipated restaurant edition drops later this fall.
DESIGN
Calling all design buffs! Gala Design Studio is now open in Upper Kirby, with the largest collection of the iconic Italian brand Boffi in the region, along with an array of European home and office lines.
FESTIVAL
Texas Renaissance Festival, which runs on weekends Oct. 12 through Dec. 1, says its 50th-anniversary season will be its biggest yet and include several new attractions. Already the largest event of its kind, the RenFest is attended by more than half a million revelers every year.
ART
Artist Kaima Marie’s solo exhibit For the record is currently up at Art Is Bond gallery, inviting the viewer into a multiverse of beloved Houston landmarks, presented in dizzying Cubist perspectives and layered collages.
Comedy
Bloody
Good Time
In the vein of Drunk Shakespeare, Drunk Dracula runs Oct. 2-Nov. 3 at the Emerald Theatre. Enjoy the follies as an acting ensemble tries to tell Bram Stoker’s classic story — after one of them throws back five shots of whiskey. –ewb
Nightlife
Step Up to the Plate!
FOR MANY YEARS, the Astrodome Conservancy has been seeking a worthy future for the 8th Wonder of the World. Throughout October, as sports fans cheer on teams at bars across town, they can support the Conservancy by purchasing a Dome-themed cocktail from participating venues, including Railyard, Wicklow Heights, Walking Stick, Pit Room, Home Run Dugout and, of course, 8th Wonder Brewery. –ewb
An artful view of the Astrodome ceiling and, inset, Wicklow Heights’ Dome drink
The Post Oak Hotel
LEADING CANCER CARE
At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, our dedicated oncologists are working to stop cancer using the latest innovations in research, treatments and technology. From genetic screenings and clinical trials to advanced imaging and robotic surgery, our cutting-edge cancer care is available at eight locations across Greater Houston. Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked No. 1 in patient care in Texas by U.S. News & World Report. That’s the difference between practicing
and leading it.
Intents & Purposes
Through a new concept album, singer-songwriter Jacob Hilton processes a lifetime of mental-health struggles.
By Chris Becker, Photo by Dakota Garrett
ink Floyd’s The Wall. Sinatra’s In the Wee Small Hours. Beyonce’s Lemonade. Three divergent examples of the album as a cathartic, psychological, conceptual work, meant to be experienced in a single sitting. Houston singer-songwriter Jacob Hilton, 37, who records as Travid Halton, a portmanteau of his mother and father’s names, might balk at being mentioned in such company. (This is a thoroughly unpretentious man, who describes himself as an “archaeologist turned singer-songwriter.”)
Nevertheless, Hilton’s brand-new Obsessions is a low-key though no
less powerful contribution to the concept-album genre. Across 10 tracks, Hilton shares his experiences with childhood trauma and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
He’s joined by several H-Town luminaries, including Geoffrey Muller (bassist for The Suffers and Robert Ellis); Will Van Horn (pedal steel player for Khruangbin and Leon Bridges); Matt Serice (trumpet player for Bayou City Funk and Free Radicals); and Ellen Story (violinist for Slow Meadow and The Broken Spokes). For his part, Hilton is heard playing resonator guitar, dobro, steel-string acoustic guitar, banjo, and piano.
Throughout Obsessions, Hilton sings with a quiet urgency and a range of expression perhaps reminiscent of Jakob Dylan or Iron and Wine, but with a voice that is uniquely his own.
Hilton describes the album’s first two tracks as two halves of a whole: “Little Bayou Boy,” a bucolic homage to childhood, and “Blossom,” about his mother, Tracy Hall, in the throes of a psychotic episode. Hall, who died in 2010, was diagnosed with schizophrenia as a child. In 2016, Hilton went to a screening of a documentary about schizophrenia, and was then inspired to finish “Blossom,” which he began at age 15 to express his conflicting feelings about his mother. “The next day, I sat with my guitar and strummed the first few chords of the song, and the first few lines of lyrics just came out effortlessly.”
Hilton has come to manage the debilitating symptoms of OCD with therapy, sessions with a licensed psychologist, and sticking to a daily routine that includes regular exercise and healthy eating.
While Hilton, who is indeed an archaeologist by day, doesn’t have immediate plans to perform Obsessions live, he can imagine eventually playing it at a house concert, with all of the musicians on the album as special guests. In the meantime, his next four-song EP drops early 2025.
Food for Thought Jacob Hilton, a.k.a. Travid Halton, at home in his kitchen, where he enjoys cooking as a form of therapy
EASTER SEALS GREATER HOUSTON
What year was your organization launched? Founded in Houston in 1947, as the Cerebral Palsy Treatment Center, the organization provided services to individuals with disabilities living in Houston and Harris County. In 1989, the organization changed its name and greatly expanded its services to meet the needs of its clientele. Today as Easter Seals Greater Houston, the organization provides multiple outstanding service programs to children, adults, veterans, and service members with all types of disabilities and their families in Harris and sixteen surrounding counties.
What is your mission? Easter Seals Greater Houston is the only organization in the greater Houston area providing comprehensive services to individuals with all types of disabilities, veterans and their families. We impact where people need us the most – school, work, home, and in the community. Enhancing education, advancing health, expanding employment, and elevating the community.
Why did you launch the organization? Easter Seals was originally launched as the school district location for children with disabilities before the ADA was passed in the 70’s. Once ADA legislation was passed, the agency evolved into life changing services and programs serving babies, children and adults with all types of disabilities and their families, regardless of their ability to pay.
What are you most proud of? Easter Seals’ services focus on improving the physical, educational, cognitive, mental and financial health of our clients so they can live as fully participating members of our community. Even though we are very efficient, with over $.91 of every dollar used for direct client assistance, we have still been able to consistently expand services to fill gaps in services for an underserved population.
How have you impacted the community? Each year, we serve close to 15,000 families in Harris and surrounding counties, most living below poverty simply due to medical bills and caregiving issues; our programs not only address our direct client’s need for therapy, school, camps and more; but those of the family through respite, financial education, mental health services and emergency assistance.
Tell us about your big event. Easter Seals is excited to announce our 14th annual “Walk With Me Houston” Family fun walk on April 12, 2025, at the Houston Zoo presented by Prosperity Bank and attended by over 4,000 donors, sponsors, volunteers and clients. Following the walk, is an after-party with children’s activities, music, food, drinks and more. WalkWithMeHouston.org
How many employees and volunteers work with your organization? 250 and more than 200.
How much have you raised since you launched? In the past 20 years, Easter Seals has grown an average of 7% a year-in spite of economic downturns, government funding cuts and the fact that less than 3% of all charitable giving goes to organizations serving people with disabilities. That growth came through a combination of community support-from government funding, the United Way, individual donors, foundations and corporations so that our babies, children and adults receive the services they desperately need without worrying about the cost or their lack of insurance.
What are your major challenges? In spite of medical advancements and the power of technology to improve the lives of veterans and people with disabilities, the need for our services continues to grow-and with that the challenge of raising the funds necessary to support those expanded services grows.
URBAN HARVEST FARMERS MARKET
What year was your organization launched? Urban Harvest’s Saturday Farmers Market started in 2004 with just seven vendors, providing an outlet for local farms, community and backyard gardeners to sell fresh produce harvested directly from their soils. Now in its 20th year, the market has grown to be one of the largest markets in Texas, supporting over 100 local farmers, ranchers, and food artisans all from within 180 miles of Houston. The market draws 3,000 customers every Saturday morning and includes many original vendors like Animal Farm, Atkinson Farms, and Wood Duck Farm.
The Urban Harvest’s Farmers Market Program supports real, fresh food and the hardworking people who grow it. The market is more than just a place to shop, it’s a gathering place where friends and families meet up each at Urban Harvest, kids grow up knowing where their food comes from, and new friendships are forged.
What is your mission? The mission of Urban Harvest is to be a catalyst in transforming food accessibility in Greater Houston. Urban Harvest aims to achieve this by fostering strong partnerships with local farmers and gardeners, operating vibrant Farmers Markets, initiating mobile markets, and providing comprehensive garden education.
What is your vision? Their vision is not just to improve, but to transform the way communities engage with and access fresh, locally sourced food. Through these efforts, Urban Harvest aspires to set a national example, showcasing how innovative community collaboration can lead to sustainable change in food systems across the country.
How have you impacted the community?
In 2023 -
• Urban Harvest Farmers Market brought together over
100 local farmers, ranchers, gardeners and food artisans to sell their products directly to Houstonians
• Urban Harvest Farmers Market hosted over 45,000 shoppers
• Urban Harvest matched $25,000 in Double Up Food Bucks, allowing those who use SNAP/EBT to get $1 in fresh fruits and veggies for each $1 spent, up to $40 daily
• Approximately 45% of Urban Harvest vendors identified as social minorities and Urban Harvest continue to strive to grow the Farmers Market diversity. In addition, 50% of shoppers identify as a BIPOC.
Tell us about your big event. Urban Harvest invites Houstonians to break bread during their 30th Anniversary Sunday Supper hosted at St. John’s School on Sunday, November 3rd, 2024. The evening will be a celebration of local food, culinary excellence and the communities Urban Harvest serves. Thirteen of Houston’s most esteemed chefs will lend their unique talents during a multi-course, family-style meal created in partnership with local ranchers and farmers. Proceeds from this unforgettable farm-to-table experience will benefit the programs of Urban Harvest: Farmers Markets, Community Gardens, Youth Education, Food Access, and Gardening Classes.
What are you most proud of? Every year the small but mighty organization serves over 45,000 farmers market patrons and over 100 small food business; nearly 5,000 students and teachers in socially vulnerable Areas; 3,823 community gardeners preserving over 34 acres of greenspace; over 2,000 Mobile Market customers, 78% of which are in underserved neighborhoods; and educates over 900 individuals who participate in year-round organic gardening classes.
THE CHILDREN’S ASSESSMENT CENTER
What is your mission? The Children’s Assessment Center (The CAC) provides healing services to over 6,300 child sexual abuse victims and their families each year. We offer forensic interviewing, family advocacy, mental health services, medical care, and court services at no cost. We facilitate community outreach and prevention training to raise awareness about child abuse in our community and how to keep children safe. Last year, we provided prevention training to over 35,000 community members, including 23,500 children in schools.
Why did you launch the organization? The CAC is the only child advocacy center in Harris County and one of the largest nationwide. Sadly, before the implementation of advocacy centers, there was not a streamlined process for children. Victims of sexual abuse were often interviewed multiple times by various law enforcement, medical professionals, and mental health clinicians. Here at The CAC, we know that having to recount abuse several times can be retraumatizing, and we sought to find a solution to make a trauma-informed process.
The goal of The CAC is to provide all the services, partners, and resources families need in one place. We collaborate with hundreds of professionals from 60 Partner Agencies (e.g., law enforcement, medical and mental health professionals, nonprofits, and governmental investigative entities) to coordinate investigations, provide services, and protect children. Our hope is that our process will give children the tools necessary to empower them on their healing journey.
How have you impacted the community? Our work is guided by the belief that all children in our community deserve to grow up safe, happy, and healthy. We work to empower children’s healing journeys, restore hope in families, and provide support to avoid long-term trauma. The CAC exists to help our community become a better, safer place for each child of Harris County.
Tell us about your big event. We will host our annual Spirit of Spring Gala to celebrate The Children’s Assessment Center Foundation’s 30th anniversary. We are thrilled to invite community members who have helped us make a lasting impact on child sexual abuse survivors, their families, and our community. We look forward to commemorating the 30th year on April 11, 2025, at The Houstonian Hotel.
How can I help? As adults, it is our responsibility to keep children safe. Your generosity can help empower families on their healing journey and protect vulnerable children. Please consider how you can be part of the solution to end child sexual abuse. Go to our website, cachouston. org, to learn how to donate, volunteer, and protect children in our community.
We exist to protect children, heal families, and prevent child sexual abuse and child sex trafficking in our community.
The 50th Annual Spindletop Holiday Ball, Seas and Greetings, will be held on Thursday, December 12. Tables and sponsorship opportunities are available now.
SPINDLETOP COMMUNITY IMPACT PARTNERS, INC.
What is your mission? Spindletop Community Impact Partners, Inc. enhances the lives of at-risk youth through funding and volunteering from the energy industry, while promoting fellowship and networking among its participants.
What are you most proud of? Spindletop is proud to support 35 non-profit organizations in Houston, all aligned with our four pillars: Educate, Empower, Protect, and Nurture. Together, we work to create brighter, healthier, and more fulfilling futures for Houston’s at-risk children. At the heart of our success are more than 60 corporate sponsors and supporters from the energy industry, who provide both financial support and volunteer time. Since 2018, the Spindletop Army has grown to more than 500 dedicated volunteers, ensuring impactful projects for Houston’s youth are executed with great care, enthusiasm and precision.
How have you impacted the community? At Spindletop, we strive to make a lasting impact on the greater Houston community by connecting at-risk youth with programs that educate, empower, protect, and nurture them throughout their lives.
Our four giving pillars guide this mission:
1. Educate: Bolstering foundational educational resources to ensure success at all levels of schooling.
2. Empower: Fostering confidence and life skills that support social and emotional development.
3. Protect: Advocating for children’s safety and overall
well-being in the community.
4. Nurture: Providing support for healthcare and wellness to individuals facing illness or special needs. Spindletop provides critical funding to worthy causes that span across these pillars, including Bo’s Place, BridgeYear, Camp For All, Kids’ Meals, Texas Center for the Missing and more. For the full list, please visit our website: https://bit.ly/SCIPWWD24
Tell us about your big event. The Spindletop Holiday Ball is the premier holiday event in the energy industry, capturing the merriment of the holiday season all the while raising more than $1 million annually to support Houston’s at-risk children.
This year, we will celebrate the 50th Annual Spindletop Holiday Ball, Seas and Greetings, on Thursday, December 12. Guests will enjoy a fun-filled evening under the sea as we honor industry leaders and their contributions to the community as a whole. Highlights of the evening include a dance performance by Ensemble Theatre, a Holiday Toy Drive with toys collected by our holiday “elves” from Girls Inc. of Greater Houston and a beautiful poinsettia tree cultivated by citizens of The Brookwood Community - all Spindletop non-profit partners. The evening is capped off with dancing to the musical stylings of Password.
If you or your corporation are interested in supporting this year’s Spindletop Holiday Ball, please contact Spindletop Executive Director Lia Vallone at info@ spindletophouston.org.
MARCH OF DIMES
What year was your organization launched? 1938
What is your mission? March of Dimes was founded in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, to combat polio. The name “March of Dimes” was suggested by entertainer Eddie Cantor as a way to encourage people to donate even a small amount, like a dime, to help fight polio. March of Dimes funded research that led to the development of the polio vaccine by Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin in the 1950s. The vaccine was a major factor in eliminating polio from the United States.
Today, March of Dimes focuses on improving the health of mothers and babies regardless of race, gender, wealth, or geography. Our mission is to lead the fight for the health of all moms and babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. Through advocacy, education, research, and support programs, March of Dimes works to ensure every baby gets the best possible start.
How have you impacted the community? March of Dimes works across the Greater Houston area to further our work to end preventable maternal health risks and deaths and ending preventable preterm birth and infant death. Each year, we bring comfort and care to more than 25,000 families and babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) through our NICU Family Support Program at three area hospitals. In 2023, March of Dimes invested $5.7 million in active research grants to end preventable maternal and infant death, to discover the causes of preterm birth and to achieve birth equity for
all mothers, regardless of race or class. This winter, the organization will launch the first ever Mom & Baby Mobile Health Center in Texas in collaboration with Memorial Hermann Health System that will address access to care issues for women and babies in underserved areas right here in Harris County.
Tell us about your big event. Signature Chefs brings together culinary talent from across Houston for an unforgettable evening that raises critical funds to support the health of moms and babies. This year’s event is cochaired by longtime friends of March of Dimes, Kristen J. Cannon and Mignon Gill, and will be held at The Revaire on Thursday, November 14th. Guests can expect tasting stations from renowned local chefs, signature cocktails, curated auction with exclusive items and experiences, and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. We are thrilled to have some of Houston’s top chefs and restaurants represented including A Fare Extraordinaire, Eunice, Le Jardinier, MaKiin, Navy Blue and many more! Join us this November for an evening of fine dining and philanthropy to advance March of Dimes mission. Visit our event website for more information and to purchase your table today! www.signaturechefs.org/Houston
How many employees and volunteers work with your organization? In 2023, our local Houston market engaged more than 800 mission, corporate and individual volunteers. The Houston staff team is comprised of 12 dynamic individuals that focus on fundraising, mission impact and volunteer engagement.
What year was your organization launched? 1986 by a small group of committee community members that believed special needs children were not receiving basic life services.
What is your mission? It is our mission to improve the quality of life for children withs special needs by providing adaptive equipment, hearing devices, select services, and support programs.
Why did you launch the organization? We believe that children are the heart and soul of humanity, that they represent all that is good within us, and that we can help children with special needs experience life at their fullest potential.
What are you most proud of? We have immediate results for the children needing most any kind of medical adaptive equipment. No long waiting periods. Children and their families who have been waiting between 1012 years for respite services alone from governmental services receive respite care within 30 days or less. All with a very small administrative staff and hundreds of volunteers. Additionally, we have opened offices in DFW and San Antonio.
What’s been your impact in the community? Be An Angel has provided adaptive equipment, respite care and other select services to over 9900 special needs children from birth to age 22 in just this past year alone. These children generally come from limited to low-income families.
Tell us about your big event. We are proud of the many events hosted by Be An Angel each year. Every February we host Purse Bingo with over 600 participants winning luxury end purses and prizes. Dan Pastorini hosts his Celebrity Golf Tournament which has raised more than 2 million dollars in the past years he has supported these children. Additionally, our Spring Gala, with “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” theme raises well over $700,000 per year.
How many employees and volunteers work with your organization? We currently have 5 employees in Houston, and two in DFW and San Antonio. We are thankful for over 600 volunteers assisting us each year.
What are your major challenges? Sharing our story making families know we are here to help them.
KIDS’ MEALS
What is your mission? Launched in 2006, Kids’ Meals’ mission is to end childhood hunger in Houston by delivering free, healthy meals year-round to the doorsteps of Houston’s hungriest preschool-aged children and through collaboration, provide their families with resources to end the cycle of poverty.
Why did you launch the organization? More than 80,000 preschool-aged children in Houston are going to bed hungry, living in food deserts, and living food insecure. Children who are ages 5 and under suffer most from lack of nutrition because their brains and bodies are in the most formative years and are not yet old enough to receive free meals through the school system. In response, the Kids’ Meals program launched to help end childhood hunger in our city.
What are you most proud of? Since its inception, Kids’ Meals has prepared and delivered more than 15.3 million free meals to food-insecure children in 56 zip codes in Harris and Montgomery Counties. What started as a small grassroots organization, delivering a few hundred meals per day, now delivers lunch to more than 9,000 preschoolaged children each weekday. In 2024, we are projected to deliver more than 2.7 million free, healthy meals. By ensuring children have basic daily nutrition, we are changing not only their mealtimes but their entire lifetimes.
What’s been your impact in the community? Kids’ Meals is a first responder to impoverished children. In addition to nutritious daily meals, we deliver weekly grocery bags of fresh produce and non-perishable staples. We leverage our daily access to connect families with vital wrap-around service information such as early childhood education, adult and child literacy, medical/dental care, ESL classes, financial planning, mental health, and job skills training. Our average all-in cost per meal delivered is only $2.
Tell us about your big event. On Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Marriott Marquis Houston, the 16th Annual Harvest Luncheon will bring together over 1,400 attendees from corporations, foundations, and Houstonians interested in delivering hope to the future of our great city by investing in the next generation. Our luncheon offers a VIP experience, Mimosas & Market, a curated group of incredible vendors offering a collection of unique items to kick off your holiday shopping, and a spectacular silent auction crowned by an outstanding program. Sponsorships and tickets are on our website.
How many employees and volunteers work with your organization? More than forty employees work at Kids’ Meals with most staff delivering direct program services to children. Kids’ Meals employees are committed and passionate about their work. In fact, our drivers are our “Hope Providers” because Kids’ Meals provides so much more than just a meal, they provide hope daily. In addition, our incredible 25,000 annual volunteers are a force to be reckoned with. They give over 60,000 hours each year to make sandwiches and pack lunches for the children in our city.
What are your major challenges? In 2008, Feeding America reported that Harris County had the highest percentage of children living with food insecurity among highly populated counties nationwide. More recent studies from Children at Risk and Northwestern University indicate the pandemic created a long-term economic impact that will affect low-income families for years. With an estimated 80,000 children under six facing food insecurity in Houston, Kids Meals’ primary goal is to serve 26,000 of them by 2031 and to continue building the infrastructure to keep growing. To accomplish this goal, we need Houstonians to partner with us as volunteers and donors to build a better city for our children and families.
Show
By Patrick Magee
COUNTRY-HOUSE CHIC
Offering a freshly comedic take on beloved characters, Stages’ Ms. Holmes & Ms.Watson Apt 2B runs Oct. 25-Nov. 17. Similarly, fall fashion brings a multitude of plaids and relaxed layers from head to toe, an updated presentation of traditional heritage style as inspired by the English countryside.
1. Mini classic handbag, $4,800, by Chanel. 2. Wool mini skirt, $680, by Lena Hoschek. 3. Over-the-knee socks, $15, on Amazon. 4. Hat, $485, by Moncler.
5. Horse-bit brown leather bracelet, $16,630, by Vincent Peach at Deutsch Fine Jewelry. 6. Booties, $990, by Burberry. 7. Wool cape coat, $13,390, by Chloe. 8. Wool mohair coat, $6,800, by Gucci.
9. Trimmed knitted sweater, $2,500, by Loewe.
ALL THE FEELS
It’s easy to fall for the seasonal autumn — feel fierce in feathers and pleats
Avante Art Gallery multidimensional pieces artists. In her Tulip Waldusky manipulates bends and folds.
1.
Bracelet, $2,700, by coat, $4,100, by Prada. Dries Van Noten. 4. Saint Laurent. 5. Slippers, Balenciaga. 6. Coat, MaxMara. 7. Tweed cardigan, $4,500, by
SUPERLATIVE style
The Village of River Oaks has ushered in sophisticated retirement living in the Bayou city. Surrounded by the heritage neighborhood of River Oaks – its impeccable finishes, Aspenwood service detail, dining and resort-style amenities make it the premier address. Impressive, spacious residential floor plans, abundance of windows and natural light, allow a heightened level of indoor-outdoor living. Spaces designed for entertaining, fitness, relaxation and a dedicated team provide a secure, lock and leave lifestyle for members. Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Optimized Care is available.
Be someone everyone wants to sit with: Channel this season’s collegiate style — think letterman jackets, preppy mini skirts and more. TUTS presents Mean Girls: The Musical in January, but this inspired look is one to wear now.
1. Sneakers, $895, by Prada. 2. Sweater, $4,550, by Brunello Cucinelli. 3. Cap, $28, by Sam & Davy. 4. Varsity jacket, $5,750, by Louis Vuitton. 5. Jeans, $690, by Stella McCartney. 6. Sunglasses, $435, by Versace. 7. Handbag, $450, by Kooreloo at Cotton Club. 8. T-shirt, $195, by L’Agence. 9. Cashmere mini, $2,250, by Prada.
GOTHIC ROMANCE
Anna Mavromatis’ multimedia collage works, dedicated to her ancestors who reinvented themselves to overcome challenges, are on view during Romancing the Myth at Barbara Davis Gallery through Oct. 19. Fashion’s romantic aesthetic has also reinvented itself with dark florals, sheer layering and jewel tones.
1. Bag, $5,100, by Valentino. 2. Mini dress, $3,995, by Versace. 3. Lace blouse, $970, by Etro. 4. Black diamond tennis bracelet, price upon request, at Valobra Master Jewelers. 5. Sunglasses, $730, by Valentino. 6. Boots, $1,395, by Christian Louboutin. 7. Skirt, $2,200, by Ferragamo. 8. Skirt, $2,250, by Balmain. 9. Dress, $790, by Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon.
Sitting Pretty
A young Memorial family gets a whole-home refresh inspired by nature and their personal passions. By Robin Sussman, Photos by Julie Soefer
Houston interior designer Marie Flanigan has become synonymous with the timeless-yet-unique aesthetic she imbues on homes worldwide: The mention of her name conjures images of distinctive neutrals, whimsical wallpaper and richly alluring fabrics.
In her new book, The Perfect Room (Rizzoli), Flanigan offers insights into how to create “timeless designs for intentional living” in every corner of the home. One of the projects in the book is an effortlessly chic home for a young Memorial family. “The owners are avid outdoorsmen and had just moved into a new home,” says Flanigan. “They wanted the residence to echo their personalities and also warm up the modern space.”
While most of the project — which, as Flanigan prefers to do, blended style with function — was rooted in new furnishings and finishes, it also included some renovations.
Reflecting the wife’s love for cooking and entertaining, the biggest transformation was the creation of a butler’s pantry from a former movie room adjacent the kitchen. You don’t see those handy pantries in homes frequently, but upon embarking on the redesign, Flanigan’s team inadvertently discovered a walled-over door in the kitchen that led out to the porte-cochère. What to do?
A brilliant solution was set forth.
“Not only does it allow easy grocery and catering unloading, the new butler’s pantry created an extension of the kitchen with added prep space,” says lead designer Sydney Manning. “It became a very special lacquered
Bench Warmers Clockwise from top left: The breakfast nook’s shelter sofa pairs with a teak coffee table; a serene corner features a custom bench and a commissioned painting by Michael Dines honoring the family’s Louisiana roots; Sherwin Williams New Providence Navy 1651 captivates in the butler pantry.
FEEDER Design
room perfect for entertaining.” The update also offered a pathway from the kitchen to the dining room, which was refreshed as well with a new dry bar and a wine storage closet. Floors of polished concrete seamlessly transition room to room, and add an unexpected hint of industrial-chic.
Some of the dreamiest décor selections are found in the nursery. Inspired by the outdoors, the space touts a trio of floating light fixtures that literally look like clouds suspended from the ceiling. De Gournay wall coverings recalling reeds and cat tails sprouting from the floorboards, along with layered, floor-to-ceiling curtains, shape a serene room that any new mom would want to spend time in. Deluxe additions included a built-in changing table and custom cabinetry with refrigerated drawers for breast milk, making nighttime feedings ultra convenient.
As for the primary bedroom, “fortunately, it was large with lots of natural light,” said Manning. To bring some
warmth to the open space, she added a shelter bed with oak screens which wrap around the headboard. A seating area at the foot of the bed boasts layered rugs and a cozy, textured sofa, while built-in bookshelves and cabinets showcase eclectic groupings of books, art and ceramics.
Taking advantage of every welcoming nook, the team turned a small space at the bottom of the stairs near the entry into a sweet sitting area. “We had a plaster SegretoStone stacked table designed for the entry, and we reupholstered an existing settee in a fun pattern creating an area to socialize,” says Manning. “Clients regularly ask what to do with this small area, and it’s one of my favorite spots,” adds Flanigan.
While many new furnishings were added, the couple had been collecting art and different objects for many years that were easily incorporated into the refresh. “Our architectural and interior updates gave the house a facelift, which is the biggest bang for your buck,” says Flanigan.
Wake Up Clockwise: Table and chairs sit beneath the dining room’s Allan Knight chandelier and Joseph Adolphe’s “An Awakening, 2022” painting; oak screens wrap around the headboard in the primary bedroom; the nursery’s tree-stump side table is from Etsy; the living room features artwork by William McClure.
THE VILLAGE OF RIVER OAKS PRESENTS
LEADERS & LEGENDS
SPONSORED BY VALOBRA MASTER JEWELERS
In the seventh annual portfolio, meet luminaries from all walks of life who have helped make Houston — and beyond — a better place.
by
text by the Editors, with Chris Becker
ShaWanna Renee RIvon photographed at the Alley
Photos
Jhane Hoang,
Leader in the Arts SHAWANNA RENEE RIVON
From period drama to musical comedy, is there a theatrical genre Houston playwright, director and activist ShaWanna Renee Rivon, 46, has yet to master? Rivon’s historically astute work, often set in her hometown of Houston, unpacks the legacies of racism, sexism, and gender disparity while pushing the idioms of Black storytelling into the future. Her work as a community organizer includes August in the Park, an annual day-long celebration of playwright August Wilson at Emancipation Park in Third Ward. Coming up in February, Rivon’s musical Emancipation runs at the Hobby Center; and in development: A play about Houston’s “Wild Man of the Tenor Sax,” Arnett Cobb.
Legend in the Arts MICHELLE BARNES
As co-founder and executive director of the Community Artists’ Collective, a non-profit committed to empowering African-American artists and facilitating collaboration among diverse communities across Houston, Michelle Barnes is one of the city’s strongest advocates for the fundamental value of art in everyday life. “We are born as creative beings,” says Barnes, a gifted sculptor, who also teaches art to children at community centers. “We should look for opportunities to use that creativity to think and to evolve.” This year, Barnes is receiving some longoverdue recognition for her work: The Collective recently celebrated its 37th year with a Hobby Center gala, and Art League Houston has honored Barnes with its 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award in Arts Leadership.
Michelle Barnes photographed at Community Artists’ Collective
Itai Ben Eli, photographed at his new Októ in Montrose
Restaurateuring L&L
Leader ITAI BEN ELI
He’s been on the Houston restaurant scene for less than 10 years. But Itai Ben Eli’s concepts have already cemented their spots in the city’s foodculture aristocracy. Under the umbrella of Sof Hospitality, Doris Metropolitan, Hamsa and Badolina Bakery deliver the rich flavors of Israeli cuisine to Houston foodies and discerning critics alike; Ben Eli was nominated for a 2024 James Beard Award in the Outstanding Restaurateur category. His new Októ in Montrose Collective is a moody, energetic, nightlifesavvy spot with a more broadly Mediterranean menu boasting a Denver cut that melts in your mouth. Outstanding, indeed.
Legend SYLVIA CASARES
Glam and personable, Sylvia Casares undeniably carries herself like royalty. She is Houston’s Enchilada Queen, after all: She makes them, plates them, teaches people how to cook them, wrote a book on them, and this year toasted 25 years of her brand Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen, which has restaurants in the Energy Corridor and on Woodway. Most recently, the Brownsville-born food-scientist-turned-chef rolled out jars of salsas and chiligravies for home cooks. She calls sauces the “heart and soul of Rio Grande cuisine,” and proudly, deliciously imparts that spirit and knowledge on anyone who would like a taste.
Sylvia Casares, photographed at her Woodway restaurant
L&L Education
Leader RENU KHATOR
There’s no denying that the University of Houston has skyrocketed in rankings and reputation during Renu Khator’s tenure, which began in 2008. By 2011, the Indian-born Chancellor had secured UH’s status as a Tier-One research university, and in 2017, plans for the UH Medical School were announced. Graduation rates have dramatically improved, and the campus has undergone a $1 billion transformation — including new football and basketball facilities. Last year, Khator’s hard-fought goal of joining a Power Five conference was realized when UH became a member of the Big 12. What’s next? Khator is determined to break the top-50 public universities list; U.S. News currently ranks UH No. 74.
Legend DAVID LEEBRON
David Leebron expanded Rice University’s facilities (to the tune of $1.8 billion), enrollment (by 85 percent), affordability and research initiatives during his 18-year presidency, from which he resigned in 2022. He engaged with policy makers and community members on a wide range of matters — including during long walks across campus with his wife, Ping — and ushered in an era of innovation with Midtown’s Ion building. Today, Leebron, who’s still a Rice prof, advocates for those values and priorities on a state level, helming the nonpartisan policy org Texas 2036, named for the Lone Star’s bicentennial year.
Renu Khator photographed at The Wortham House in the Museum District
David Leebron photographed on the Rice University campus
Bobby Tudor photographed at his home in the Museum District
Sustainability L&L
Legend BOBBY TUDOR
He’s well known in philanthropy circles; he and his wife Phoebe donate to and chair events for all of the preeminent causes. The accomplished businessman, a former investment banker, is currently CEO of Artemis Energy Partners. But one of his most influential roles these days may come as a surprise to some: As chairman of the Houston Energy Transition Initiative, Bobby Tudor is the voice of the city’s economic future, which depends largely upon its ability to evolve with the transition away from oil and gas. This consortium of energy leaders, with Tudor at the helm, is confident that the city’s continued innovation — in carbon-capture and clean hydrogen technologies, for example — is ushering in global solutions for an “energyabundant, low carbon future.”
Leader RAZ HALILI
Growing up on the docks of his family’s fish farms in San Leon, Texas, Raz Halili helped his Albanian immigrant father harvest oysters in the winters and shrimp in the summers, captaining his own boat at age 16. Today, Prestige Oysters is one of the most in-demand seafood wholesalers in the country, and Halili has become a steward of sustainability in the industry. He led Prestige through the arduous three-year process to become the only certified-sustainable fishery in North America, per the Marine Stewardship Council. He uses his James Beard-recognized Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House restaurant in San Leon to educate patrons about these efforts — recycling shells, enriching reefs — and serves on boards of many Gulf fishing organizations.
Raz Halili photographed on Galveston Bay
L&L Philanthrophy
Leader FRANCO VALOBRA
It’s an understatement to say that Hurricane Katrina had a silver lining; more like a 24-karatgold-with-diamonds lining. The storm brought displaced fourthgeneration Italian jeweler Franco Valobra from New Orleans to Houston. Since then, he’s not only built a thriving business with posh shops in both cities, but also a reputation for giving back hither and yon. It’s hard to find a gala chair with almost any charity in H-Town — from firemen in search of better equipment to sick kids needing hope and compassion — to whose auction Valobra Master Jewelers hasn’t donated beautiful baubles. Oh, and he also puts the petal to the precious metal! He’s one of the world’s foremost Ferrari enthusiasts.
Legend GRACIE CAVNAR
It’s been 20 years Gracie Cavnar and her husband Bob founded Recipe for Success, the nonprofit that combats childhood obesity and teaches kids about healthy eating through in-school curricula and other programs. She has touched the lives of at least 50,000 kids in Houston and nationwide, with stats showing that students exposed to Recipe’s fun coursework emerge eating 30 percent more veggies. The mission blossomed — literally — a few years back with the opening of Hope Farms, a seven-acre garden of fresh, affordable produce in a food desert near Downtown. If teaching and nourishing kids wasn’t enough, Hope Farms has a dual mission to employ and train military vets in agribusiness.
Franco Valobra photographed at Valobra Master Jewelers on Westheimer
Gracie Cavnar, photographed in the garden of her friend Cynthia Petrello’s home
Party People
‘SEXY’ CROWD
CityBook’s “Sexy Party,” presented by Indigo Auto Group in celebration of the magazine’s annual “Sexy Issue,” drew a fun crowd to EaDo’s Chapman & Kirby bar to take in producer Todd Ramos’ semi-scandalous swimwear/ underwear fashion show. Edward Sanchez provided hair and makeup for Page Parkes models sporting revealing looks by Top Drawer Lingerie, Leather by Val , Manready Mercantile and Manbuns Indigo displayed righteous rides out front for guests to consider renting — Lambo, anyone? Bites including miniature beef Wellingtons were washed down with cocktails such as mango margaritas, smoked Old Fashioneds and espresso martinis, thanks to spirits sponsors Cazadores tequila, Angels Envy bourbon and Grey Goose vodka. Guests included Valen Custer and fiancé Vitor Villar, the model couple who appeared in the 2024 Sexy Issue’s racy fashion shoot.
Rosendo Mendoza and Joshua Schirmer
A Page Parkes model at the fashion show
Lindsay Yates and Brian Ching
Jazmin Porter
A Page Parkes model at the fashion show
Vitor Villar and Valen Custer
Van Morris and Patrick Curphey
Addison Freeman and Amanda Pascali
Thy Mitchell
TIS THE SEASON FOR SPREADING JOY AND CHOCOLATE!
Our truffles are the perfect gift for foodies and chocolate lovers. Made with the finest Belgian chocolate, each truffle is a little gem of handcrafted sweetness.
GLAM SLAMS!
Curtain up on the social season! The Houston Ballet’s opening-night dinner took place on the stage following a production of John Neumeier’s The Little Mermaid, starring Karina González. The sold-out evening also honored the legacy of Lauren Anderson, one of the world’s first Black principal ballerinas. ... Two cool cocktail parties raised funds and awareness for a number of causes close to the hearts of Astros players and their wives. José Altuve, Kyle Tucker and Josh Hader hosted the Team Up! event at Post Oak Hotel and won big for their respective charities. And former ’Stros pitcher and current coach Joe Smith, along with his sportscaster wife Allie LaForce, hosted a gala at Minute Maid Park benefiting their HelpCureHD organization. Huntington’s Disease took the life of Smith’s mother in 2020. And the Cattle Baron’s Ball, annually one of the city’s largest and most successful galas, surpassed expectations, raising $1.6 million for the American Cancer Society and welcoming Roger Creager to the stage for a bootscootin’ good time.
Hallie Vanderhider and Bobby Dees at ‘Ballet’
Jim and Whitney Crane at ‘Team’
Phoebe and Bobby Tudor at ‘Ballet’
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Landon and Brenna Agabaldo at ‘Cattle’
Connor Walsh and Chae Eun Yang at ‘Ballet’
Craig Biggio at ‘Team Up’
Leisa HollandNelson Bowman and Shavonnah Roberts at ‘Cattle’
Chris and Kristy Bradshaw at ‘Ballet’
Kat Pressly and Reagan Bregman at ‘HelpCureHD’
IN ACTION LEADERSHIP
DARREN RANDLE CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten & inspire others?
The most important lesson I’ve learned in my professional career is to always do the right thing for team members and customers and don’t chase the dollar. I’ve seen so many people make decisions for their business out of greed and the outcome is never positive. I also tell others starting in the industry to link up with others that have the same goals and vision as you and grow together because you’ll always need someone to help at some point to achieve your customer’s expectations
What are you most proud of? Excited about?
As for what I’m most proud of, that would be our HTE team! We’ve done a lot of cross-training with our office staff, installers/crews, warehouse team, etc. over the last few years (some planned, others not as much due to the growth) and it would be impossible to service the number of awesome clients we do at Houston Tents & Events without them going above and beyond every day in the office or on the job-site to do things the right way, every time. I’m excited about all the changes happening as we speak that will truly convert us into a one-stop business that has just about everything you need for any event.
How did you start your business?
When I launched Houston Tents and Events, I sub-rented most of the products I needed from other companies in the industry of whom I was already utilizing their services at the previous company that I was a non-equity partner for the few years prior to starting my own company. Truth be told, I didn’t have any expectations to own some of the equipment that we offer at Houston Tents & Events such as structure tents, generators, staging, decor, etc. I had created some unique partnerships during this phase of my business and although it could’ve been a strategic relationship, that partnership only exists when there is two-way transparency.
How did you get to where you are today?
Over the last couple of years since the end of certain partnerships, the focus for Houston Tents & Events is to be a selfsustaining company in our industry and to own the majority of the equipment/rental products needed to give our customers the level of product quality and service they expect from HTE. In the rental industry, it takes many years to feel any level of profit as most of the money is being put directly back into the business (inventory and personnel) so technically, I’m still putting capital into my company in the “growth” stage, just as I was doing in the “start” stage.
What should our readers know about your business?
HTE focuses on the experience behind rental equipment. I learned in my previous career roles where I was the customer that ordered the rental items, I noticed a huge gap in the experience that quality wasn’t important. That gave me the light bulb moment that I needed to utilize my experience in sports and corporate marketing event relationships to transition into a role on the rental side of the event industry. Being in a city/county where we have 6.4M people, there’s enough business for a variety of event rental providers but I usually tell people that what sets us apart is that we actually care about any client’s event whether it’s a $1,500 event or $150,000 project. This industry is my passion and although there are challenges with any small business in the beginning stages, I focus on the successes we’ve had thus far to fuel me to be more efficient and innovative for our clients and the growth will happen organically. I’m not the business owner that suggests or offers something that doesn’t make sense for a client and, in fact, I’m usually the type of person in meetings suggesting things that are more difficult to accomplish that are much lower profit margins for my business – but I know it’s the right thing to do for the client. One thing I’d like to share is I love the City of Houston as it’s the reason I am where I am today and that’s why I wanted to keep it in our company name. I hope in the near future I’m able to continue gaining market share like we have the last few years for all of our non-profits, corporations, wedding planners, festival organizers and local sport organizations that have helped us grow thus far.
Who or what had the most impact on you?
I think the biggest impact was everyone at the University of Houston. UH taught me everything from how to hustle for everything, blend with cultures I didn’t grow up around in my childhood and be resourceful to accomplish whatever tasks were ahead. Going to college there wasn’t just about learning business from a textbook, it was instilled throughout my bachelor’s and master’s programs to not give up and find a way through challenges. Most people in the millennial generation I’m part of statistically quit when sometimes they are so close to achieving their goals. UH helped prepare me for any challenges I’ve encountered in my personal life or professional career over the last 14 years.
How did you get to where you are today? The present moment is a combined history of my family, my time as an athlete, my passion for learning, and my desire to see the world be better. I grew up as a successful springboard and platform diver, however, an injury caused me to seek alternative treatments to heal my body. In that process, I discovered the power of yoga, exercise, meditation, mindset, and nutrition. This holistic approach eventually led me to open a Pilates and cycling studio called DEFINE body & mind. I opened studios around the nation, and after selling most of my business between 2017-2019, I was ready to explore how I could make an even greater impact on the wellbeing of our community. In 2023, I started actively working on a brand new multi-family/apartment concept called, Define Living. The idea focused on offering health and wellness services within a beautiful apartment setting to increase the wellbeing of our residents. Having a strong sense of community is the number one factor in living a happy life, so why not build a community where daily fitness, cooking classes, and social connection are the norm? We opened Define Living in March of 2024, and we couldn’t be happier with how things are being received. We are already looking at building more concepts like this in the Houston area and beyond.
Who do you credit? I credit my family, my community, and my spiritual connection. Houston is a place where opportunities exist. I did my MBA at Rice University and my Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology at UPenn. I am so grateful for the enriching communities of Rice and UPenn where they genuinely want to see their students thrive. These institutions
have become my springboard from which I feel I could jump with the knowledge and confidence to launch the concept of Define Living. And, without any doubt, I give credit to my family and friends. I used to get a lot of inquisitive looks when I would talk about launching a fitness brand or a franchise brand. However, I now feel very loved and supported by the people closest to me when I tell them about a new project that I am focusing on. They can sense my passion, and that is contagious.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? Here are several:
1) Swim in your own lane.
2) Learn as much as you can about your industry while getting paid by someone else.
3) Starting your own business is risky, time-consuming, and challenging, but your passion will take you far.
4) It’s okay to be skeptical, but avoid becoming cynical.
5) As Mother Theresa stated, “What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight; build anyway.”
What’s new in your life or work that you’re excited about?
I am so happy with how well our first Define Living has been received. I worked hard to build a program that was transforming and accessible. To know that we are attracting a group of people who are diverse in every sense of the word while elevating their wellbeing is incredibly motivating for me each day. This inspires me to bring this concept nationwide and add more health and wellbeing to communities across the globe!
Jess Bailey
FOUNDER & MANAGING ATTORNEY, BAILEY
LAW FIRM PLLC
How did you get to where you are today? A few key principles integrated into my life: setting clear goals, maintaining a growth mindset, building strong habits, and surrounding myself with the right people. Goals provided direction, while a growth mindset helped me turn challenges into opportunities for learning. Consistent habits, like disciplined work and effective communication, kept me moving forward. Being surrounded by motivated, supportive individuals has elevated my standards and kept me accountable. They’ve provided advice, encouragement, and sometimes that extra push I needed to stay on track. With these elements, I’ve been able to create a framework that helps me succeed and ensures I continue to grow and evolve.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? I’ve learned to honor the struggle and see challenges not as obstacles meant to stop me but as opportunities to grow stronger and wiser. Every setback, every difficulty, carries a lesson that can propel you forward if you choose to learn from it. Clarity about goals, who you are and where you want to go acts as a compass during times of chaos and confusion, helping to steer life back on course. Surrounding myself with people who uplift and inspire has dramatically enhanced my resilience and ability to bounce back from life’s challenges. The commitment to lifelong learning has also been a game-changer for me. Being a perpetual student of life keeps me humble and open to new possibilities. It builds confidence because I know I can adapt and handle whatever comes my way.
What’s new in your life or work that you’re excited about? I’m thrilled to be launching a new 12-episode podcast series with LaGina Harris, the founder of LaRae Infinity LLC, where we’ll dive into the challenges and resilience of entrepreneurship. In addition, I’m working with a publisher on a book set to be released in 2025!
What gives you the leadership edge? What truly gives me the leadership edge is a deep commitment to personal growth, a focus on service, and a profound empathy for my clients and team. Leadership, at its core, is about constantly adapting and growing. It’s about stepping into challenges and using them as opportunities to gain confidence and develop skills. This mindset of embracing growth and being open to learning has been pivotal. Understanding the core concerns of those I work with is crucial, as it allows me to tailor the support and guidance to their specific needs and situations. It’s about meeting them where they are, recognizing the effort they’ve put in, and understanding the context of their challenges. Creating with them, not just for them, which is a cornerstone of effective leadership. These elements, combined with a consistent practice of self-reflection and a commitment to embodying the values I preach, provide the leadership edge.
“Leadership is about being a role model, not just in success but in resilience, integrity, and compassion.”
Photo by Al Torres
IN ACTION
Theresa
Roemer CEO, THERESA ROEMER LLC
How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.
Who do you credit? I owe a great deal of credit to several important figures in my life. First, my mother, who instilled in me the value of hard work from an early age, played a significant role in shaping my work ethic. My father, an entrepreneur, also had a profound impact, teaching me the importance of dedication and perseverance through his own experiences. Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to have a handful of mentors who, often without me even realizing it at the time, contributed to my understanding of what it means to work hard and stay committed to my goals. Their guidance has been invaluable in shaping the person I am today.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to never fall into the mindset of being a victim, regardless of the challenges you face. Life will present difficulties, but it’s crucial to rise above them and take control of your own story. Instead of dwelling on setbacks or making excuses, choose to stand tall and approach every situation with the mindset of a victor. Adopting this attitude allows you to move forward, take responsibility, and achieve success, no matter the obstacles in your path.
What’s new in your life or work that you’re excited about? I’m really excited about continuing to leverage my social media platforms to inspire and motivate people. My Instagram, where I’ve built a community of over 1 million followers, and my YouTube channel, which has earned a plaque for surpassing 100,000 subscribers, are both great outlets for spreading positivity and guidance. Additionally, I’m thrilled about my private online community, The Vault, where I offer live group coaching sessions to like-minded individuals. Through this platform, I’m able to help people achieve their next level of success, whether in their personal lives or in business. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their growth and transformation.
Instagram: instagram.com/theresa.roemer/ YouTube: youtube.com/@TheresaRoemer The Vault: theresa-roemer-vault.mn.co/
Saba Syed FOUNDER OF OASIS MOROCCAN BATH
How did you get to where you are today? My journey began with a need to be financially independent and an even a deeper drive to create a lasting legacy. The centuries-old Hammam tradition has always fascinated me—not just for its relaxation benefits, but for its holistic approach to cleansing the body, mind, and soul. So, combining my passion with a vision to bring an authentic yet luxurious Hammam spa experience to Houston, I took the leap less than two years ago to open my own spa.
The road has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. I’ve always believed that success comes from dedication and staying true to your values, and that has been my guiding principle. I focused on creating a serene, authentic atmosphere where every guest feels truly cared for. From hand-picking the best products to carefully curating our services, I wanted every detail to reflect the quality and soul of the OMB Hammam rituals.
I also knew that building relationships would be key. Word-of-mouth, strong community connections, and media support have been instrumental in my growth. I was fortunate to be featured on TV and in several magazines, which brought more visibility to the spa. But at the heart of it, the success comes firstly from God, and then from the positive feedback and loyalty of our clients, who have embraced this experience and helped spread the word.
Today, I’m proud to see how far we’ve come, but I know this is just the beginning.
Who do you credit? First and foremost, I credit God for my success and for giving me the strength and ability to start this business. Without His constant help and mercy, none of this would have been possible.
Next, I credit myself for the determination and perseverance it took to bring this vision to life. I’ve always been someone who, once committed to a goal, pursues every possible avenue to achieve it. Building this business required dedication, resilience, and an unwavering belief in myself.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? Trust your instincts, stay focused, and remain positive. Positive energy is magnetic—you’ll attract people with the same outlook. Don’t let difficulties or obstacles slow you down; they are a part of the journey. And no matter how busy or demanding life gets, always make time for yourself and your family. Balance is essential for both personal well-being and long-term success.
What’s new in your life or work that you’re excited about? I had initially planned for this to be a surprise, but I think now is the perfect time to share some exciting news: God-willing, we’re expanding! It’s something I had envisioned, but I honestly didn’t expect it to happen so soon. Thank God, we’ve had investors reaching out from many different areas, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow the business and bring the Hammam experience to more people. This new venture is a thrilling next step, and I’m eager to see where it takes us.
IN ACTION
Bianca Bucaram FOUNDER
OF THE BUCARAM PR GROUP AND BXM MUSIC
Get to Know Bianca:
Bianca Bucaram, founder of The Bucaram PR Group and BXM Music, is a dynamic force in the public relations industry. She is known for her tenacity, empathy, and bilingual communication skills. As a local publicist with national reach, she blends local insights with broader impact, telling compelling stories that foster business growth and create opportunities.
Her ability to connect influencers, businesses, and nonprofits has set her apart, promoting prominent personalities while supporting meaningful causes.
How did you get to where you are today?
Bianca’s journey to success is marked by passion, persistence, and strategic storytelling. She founded The Bucaram PR Group, focusing on lifestyle clients, celebrities, and community leaders. Her firm has grown by blending traditional media outreach with relationship building, event management, artist development and more achieving significant results for her clients across various industries, including entertainment, fashion, sports, and music.
Who do you credit?
Bianca credits her success to her strong network of mentors, her family, and the community she serves. She acknowledges the support of her clients and the invaluable partnerships she has built over the years. Bianca is also deeply inspired by her commitment to giving back to her community, which continues to fuel her work in public relations and philanthropy.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others?
Bianca emphasizes the importance of showing up with kindness, resilience, and authenticity in everything you do. She has learned that building strong relationships and maintaining a positive attitude can open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain closed. Bianca’s work ethic and dedication to her clients underscore her belief in the power of consistency, strategic planning, and adaptability in the ever-changing PR landscape.
What’s new in your life or work that you’re excited about?
Bianca is excited about her ongoing philanthropic work, including her involvement with the Global Empowerment Mission, where she has helped raise millions for disaster relief efforts. She is also thrilled about expanding her PR firm’s reach, after starting BXM music -- working with a diverse range of clients, and continuing to make an impact both locally in Houston and globally. Her efforts in supporting organizations like Maestro Cares, Marc Anthony’s nonprofit and creating successful campaigns reflect her passion for creating real change through her work.
She has been recognized as one of Houston Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, named among the 100 Coolest People in the City by Houston CityBook, and received awards including the Woman of the Year in Advertising & Public Relations by the Ecuadorian American Chamber of Commerce. Her dynamic leadership continues to influence the industry while supporting charitable causes close to her heart.
Photo by Sofia van der Dys Photography
Murry & Karen Penner OWNERS, M PENNER
How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.
Whom do you credit? MP: I guess I could say that retail is in my blood. My grandfathers on both sides owned men’s clothing stores and my dad opened M PENNER in 1974, so a great deal of credit goes to them. Dad had incredible vision and created a unique niche in Houston’s menswear landscape in the mid 1970’s by focusing on European fashion brands and styles. He quickly became known as a maverick in the industry, bucking the predominantly “American brand trend” of the time. A great deal of credit also goes to the people who work with us, from the sales team to the tailor shop. I also credit Karen and my son, Jeremy, whose dedication keeps us grounded and focused.
What is it like running a family-owned business? Chaos. But seriously, through ups and downs, for us, it’s the best of the best. We get to set the tone and define the culture of the business. Our employees are our family and we treat our clients like family, too. There is a noticeable warmth that permeates the atmosphere at M PENNER and we love that. When you run a family owned business, the bottom line is clear - the buck stops with us.
“The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him.”
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? While running a family business certainly can be chaotic, the truth is that it is also very gratifying. And that’s because we have learned a few important lessons. Have clearly defined roles and be clear about who makes the final decision. Find your niche in the market and stay in your lane. Clarify your goals and refer to them repeatedly to stay on track. Hire great people; trust them and let them shine. Stash the cash - in our 50-year history, there have been great years and there have been tough years. Keep enough money in the bank to help get through the tough years. Pay attention to the details. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
What is your biggest accomplishment? MP: It goes backwards and it goes forwards - being in business for 50 years and carrying on the legacy of my dad’s vision and now working with my son in the store. Being known in the men’s specialty store industry as one of the best stores in the country is extremely gratifying. We can’t wait to celebrate our 50th in December!
Photo by Al Torres
John Kuykendall SHOWROOM MANAGER, SUB-ZERO, WOLF AND COVE
How did you get to where you are today? Growing up I had envisioned myself as a news anchor, living in NY and enthusiastically saying into the camera “Good Morning America!”. To this day, I am still a news/political junkie. My mother owned fur salons so specialty retail, luxury retail was in my blood through the family business. Eventually, mom shuttered the stores and I was recruited to a large specialty retailer. Over the next 30 years, I was in commissioned sales on the sales floor, became a department manager, worked my way up to buyer and store manager. Although I never became a newscaster, I did live in NYC for a few years. But Texas is home and with aging grandparents, I felt the pull to come back to my
roots. A headhunter approached me. I never envisioned myself in the high-end appliance market, but there are so many similarities. Clients want a memorable experience; whether shopping for diamonds and fur or remodeling their kitchen.
What lessons have you learned that might enlighten and inspire others? The best advice I ever received was “Hire happy people”. There is a wealth of knowledge to be absorbed in any specialty field. Most companies have various trainings and on boarding practices to ensure all that knowledge gets shared. But even the best trainers cannot impart the fundamentals of being happy, in your workplace or personal life.
I believe happiness comes from within and is an active practice. I became a widower in my 40’s and at the time, my son was still in high school. Navigating the devastating effects of cancer from diagnosis to hospice takes a toll. But self-pity, doubt, and negativity could not creep into our lives. There had been so much hardship, it was my responsibility to ensure he saw optimism, and enthusiasm for the life we have now. I could not dwell on the loss but chose to move forward with gratitude. I now try to carry that attitude in everything I do.
The pandemic was a prime example of why hiring happy people matters. With everyone spending significantly more time in their homes, we saw a huge surge of kitchen remodels and demand, while keeping our USA manufacturing moving forward became a challenge. The work and dedication from everyone in this organization, down to my very own team, are what got us through, and we are now stronger than ever. That hard, dedicated work had its origins in happy people coming together, and I am so proud of the efforts made by everyone to keep us moving forward.
What’s new or upcoming for Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove?
In recent years, our engineering teams have put significant innovation into the aesthetics of our appliances. From a complete revamp on the features of Sub-Zero Classic Series Refrigeration last year, to the introduction of Wolf’s Accent Door Collection this year, featuring white and black ranges to accompany an assortment of knob and bezel options that help personalize your cooking appliances to your design style. Both lines look incredible, and we are thrilled to see where this will lead us in the future. We have all of these new appliances on display, so we welcome folks to make an appointment and see them in person.
What do you like most about what you do? I strongly value working for a company whose values align with their product. Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances are built to last 20+ years of daily use and the performance is incredible. Whether a customer is looking for our iconic red knobs, or the equipment to make their culinary dreams a reality, we help find the best configurations for their space and are confident in the appliances we put in their home.
What drives you? My mom instilled a great work ethic in my siblings and me. Working alongside my team to surpass expectations keeps me motivated. The SubZero, Wolf, and Cove showroom has a hard-earned reputation in the market for elevated experiences from client demonstration dinners to happy hour for our dealer partners, and events for the designer community.
Eat. Drink. Travel. Live.
Piece of Cake
Dallas’ Vandelay Hospitality Group claimed the former Underbelly space on Westheimer for its retrostyled luxury steakhouse. Drake’s Hollywood is known for its posh design featuring red leather booths — and equally red and decadent 24-layer strawberry cake. For more on this and other food news, see page 58.
It’s Prime Time
Ben Berg’s hip new restaurant in the Heights combines key ingredients from his very first steakhouse success story with the international flavors of Houston.
By Evan W. Black, Photos by Brian Kennedy & Kirsten Gilliam
TThere’s no denying that restaurateur Ben Berg is on a roll. Some may even say he’s on fire. And at his new Prime 131, a beacon in the restaurant-deprived Heightsadjacent neigborhood of Timbergrove, everything is burning brightly in only the best ways.
By 7pm one Tuesday evening, when the temperature outside has not yet dropped below 95 degrees, nearly every table in the intriguingly cavernous eatery is occupied. Designed to recall New York’s Meatpacking District in the ’90s, Prime 131 was built out of an old factory in the Docks at Timbergrove. The original polished-concrete floors gleam, as do exposed beams and rivets and more. The front of the restaurant has one long bar, where neighborhood regulars post up for a drink after work;
behind it is the main dining room, which is fashioned around a central grilling-station-slash-sushi-bar with four wood-fire grills and two Josper charcoal ovens.
Stadium-style seating in the main dining room ensures that all patrons are treated to a great view of the grills, chefs and fellow guests. According to Berg, his OG steakhouse B&B Butchers & Restaurant has an oftrequested table in its main dining room — Table 131 — which became the inspiration for this entire new concept. And he executed it pretty well, as guests would be hardpressed to find a seat in the house that doesn’t have a view of live-fire cooking. If you really pay attention to how much smoking and grilling is going on in that central kitchen, you’ll likely start to marvel at the building’s
We Meat Again
Berg’s new restaurant Prime 131 is decked out to recall
New York’s Meatpacking District in the ’90s.
ventilation system as much as at the menu.
But the lengthy menu is indeed worth marveling; it differs from a traditional steakhouse in the sense that a standard appetizer-entrée-side-dessert order need not apply. “We designed a menu that the entire table can share as it comes off the grill,” says Berg Hospitality’s new regional culinary director Alisher Yallaev.
In the vein of non-traditional, it’s definitely worthwhile to order a unique dish or two to supplement the incredible USDA Prime cuts and Australian and Japanese Wagyu. We suggest the “Dinosaur” bone marrow with shortrib and onion jam, served with grilled sourdough perfect for soaking up all those incredible juicy flavors. The sashimi and sushi selection is lovely, too.
For a special occasion, there are four Korean barbecue tables discretely separated from the main dining room. Here, grill your own selections in a cozy booth, which are available by reservation only, and serve three steak-omakase menus.
But the rest of the patrons need not miss out on the firey fun: If you save room for dessert (which isn’t a given, but it is recommended), roast your own s’mores at your table.
Dining
LATEST DISH!
HOUSTON’S
BEST FOOD NEWS, IN SMALL BITES ...
River Oaks fave State of Grace has rebooted: Chefproprietor Ford Fry’s new menu of wood-fired steaks, shareable sides and seafood specials is full of classic-steakhouse fare. Expect bread service with spreads and dips to start, and a Texas-size pecan ball to cap off a hearty meal. (The interiors got a whimsical refresh, too!)
Just in time for patio season, a new location of Loro, from Hai Hospitality and Franklin BBQ, has bowed. The new outpost is in a former auto shop on Kirby, with a menu of Southeast Asia-meets-Texas delicacies. Items exclusive to the Kirby location include the oak-smoked pulledpork sandwich with sesame slaw and smoked-pepper barbecue sauce, and a juicy double smashburger.
There’s a new resto in Levy Park: Hearsay, from Landmark Houston Hospitality Group, replaces the shuttered Woodshed Smokehouse. At this family-friendly oasis, guests can linger on the large and lovely patio with park views while kids devour soft-serve ice cream (your furry friends are invited, too).
Nostalgia runs high at Ben Berg’s new Buttermilk Baby in M-K-T Heights, where Carvel ice cream treats — a rarity in restaurants — are paired with a menu of buttermilk biscuits, chicken sandwiches and burgers.
James Beard nominee and ChòpnBlọk chefowner Ope Amosu just opened his first standalone restaurant. Also a popular stall at POST, ChòpnBlọk is now serving West African
cuisine — with a side of culture — on Westheimer at Whitney St.
A fave watering hole goes al fresco! Clarkwood, located just off Allen Parkway, is doubling in size soon, thanks to a courtyard bar outfitted by Gin Design.
A menu of Mediterranean delights awaits at Októ in Montrose Collective, from Sof Hospitality. For more on Októ and Sof’s Itai Ben Eli, see “Leaders & Legends,” in this issue.
With red leather booths and a gallery wall depicting Hollywood stars past and present, Drake’s, from Dallas-based Vandelay Hospitality, is now open on the Westheimer Curve. Devour steaks, pizzas, and the same “World’s Coldest Martini” that’s been a hit at Hudson House.
Fired Up
The central open kitchen is smoking hot; below, the whole roasted lobster.
Must-have martini at Drake’s
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Owner Nicholas Bagwell and family
Out to Sea
An indulgently quintessential New England vacation awaits on Nantucket.
By Patrick Magee
TThere’s a reason that many Houstonians glorify a quaintly picturesque life on Nantucket. Actually, there are several: a storied history, charming shops, cobblestone streets, impossibly fresh oysters (and need we even mention the weather?).
For those wanting to be close to all the action, the harbor is where to stay. The Cottages at the Boat Basin are a row of Quaker-style houses on the slip that juts into the harbor — the closest thing to staying on the water without being on a boat. Renovated this year by Nantucket-based designer Audrey Sterk, each little house is inspired by a whaling ship from a time, 300 years ago, when the island was the busiest whaling port in the world. With a color palette of — what else — deep ocean blue and misty gray, the historic accommodations have been revamped without altering the architecture. Original details, including the vaulted ceiling beams, remain.
Surrounding the Cottages are art galleries and eateries; the adjacent Cru oyster bar has day parties with East Coast prepsters galore.
From here, it’s a picturesque walk along cobblestone streets to Nantucket’s small downtown. Nestled in the maze of shingle-style architecture and Greek revival buildings — take the walking tour from the Whaling Museum for the full story on the marriage of these two styles — are charming shops and ultra-hip restaurants. Located in a former sea captain’s house, stylish Via Mare offers mostly small plates and cool cocktails in environs akin to Houston’s La Colombe d’Or. Meanwhile, on the northeast end of Nantucket, find The Cottages’ sister property, The Wauwinet. It’s a quieter, but equally scenic, hotel overrun with lush hydrangeas bathed in fresh sea air. The hotel’s restaurant, Topper’s, is overseen by its namesake — an Airedale Terrier — in the form of a large oil painting hung prominently in the dining room. The oysters here are harvested a literal stone’s throw from the restaurant, and the wine program has been annually awarded the Wine Spectator Grand since 1996. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a nice pour overlooking the water, while daydreaming about staying on island forever.
Amazing ACK
Clockwise from left: Sankaty Head Lighthouse; oysters at Cru; The Cottages at the Boat Basin
Join us for a memorable evening celebrating and raising funds for Avenue 360’s Omega House hospice program, the first residential hospice in Texas and a haven for terminally ill AIDS patients since 1986.
Friday, November 8, 2024
6:30 PM | River Oaks Country Club
Event Co-Chairs
Brigitte Kalai & Alicia Smith Presenting Sponsor
Deborah Duncan with performances
Talent Luke Whitney Blues-Soul Artist
Lush Escape
Clockwise: Mexican morsels at Frida; the pool at Zen; and the cavernous pool and relaxation space at Se Spa
Jungle Belles
In Riviera Maya, three resorts meet among lush mangroves. By Jeff Gremillion
TThe manager of Grand Velas Riviera Maya says a funny thing as she tours a writer around the 206-acre allinclusive between Cancun and Tulum. “I still get lost sometimes. If I forget what I’m doing and stop looking at the signs, I wind up in the parking lot.”
Thank goodness for the signs, and the shuttle between the three distinct but interlocking resorts that comprise Grand Velas. One resort is adults-only and quiet, the other very family-friendly, and the third — the Zen Grand, immersed in tropical foliage — is so sexy the Love Is Blind reality show filmed here.
There’s so much to do, with the Caribbean waters to the east — Cozumel isle’s out in the sea — and the mangroves of the Yucatan to your back. Iguanas, racoons and coatis (sleeker racoons) wander in from the jungle, leaving behind spider monkeys, capybaras and jaguars, which keep their distance.
Consider an eco tour. Glimpses of wildlife are assured, and the reports of the resort’s sustainability initiatives — artificial reefs, tree-transplanting efforts are fascinating. So are the grounds’ cenotes, the deep freshwater pits formed by geothermal activity after that dinosaur-ending asteroid hit here 66 million years ago.
The tour ends with a honey tasting, pairing cheeses with honey from the property’s bees. The sweet stuff also turns up in Se Spa. As part of one treatment, it’s smeared all over you before you soak in a tub then get a massage. The spa, where treatments begin with a multistage “water ceremony” in which you rotate through hot and cold sauna-like stations, is among the largest on the continent, featuring immense pools and cavernous relaxation spaces.
If honey isn’t enough, try one of eight restaurants. Cocine de Autor, where the tasting menu amazes with polished little plates of bone marrow with caviar and cabbage with pistachios, has a Michelin star. But if you eat there every night, you’ll miss the grilled “drunken” octopus at Mexican Frida — and the blue cheese croissants at Vegas-y/Parisian-y Piaf, whose chandeliers drip red crystals and whose beautiful violinist plays classicalized pop songs like something out of Bridgerton. The best meals may be in the vast daily lunch buffet roasted duck and lamb, many varieties of ceviche and sushi, lobster tail and giant cracked crab legs. It’s daunting and easy to get turned around. But getting lost has rarely been so delicious.
