LIFE + CULTURE
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF MEMORIAL PARK
WONDERFUL WINTER TRAVEL IN TURKS AND CAICOS
FOOD + BEVERAGE
HEALTH + WELLNESS
BEAUTY ENLIGHTED WITH LE BLANC GENERAL DENTISTRY & AESTHETICS
HOUSTON’S SIZZLING DINING SCENE NOVEMBER 2024
Houston Methodist Hospital
#1 HOSPITAL IN TEXAS FOR PATIENT CARE & QUALITY
Houston Methodist Hospital has been named the Best Hospital in Texas for 13 years in a row by U.S. News & World Report and recognized on the Honor Roll eight times — with 10 nationally ranked specialties. For more than 100 years, we have provided patients with the highest quality care, the most advanced technology and the best patient experience. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.
houstonmethodist.org/bestintexas
713.790.3333
Inspired Giving
Welcome to our annual Gratitude Issue, a celebration of inspiration and community during this season of thanksgiving. As we gather with family and friends to reflect on all we're grateful for, this special edition is packed with stories that remind us of the beauty in giving back.
This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of our beloved Memorial Park, a true gem in the heart of our city. Over the past century, this green oasis has provided a space for reflection, recreation, and connection. We’re excited to share its rich history and the ongoing efforts to preserve it for future generations.
We’re also proud to feature our annual Roots of Goodness story, where we shine a spotlight on Houstonians who are making a difference—both locally and beyond. Their work inspires us, and we hope it moves you to think about how we can all contribute to making our community better, kinder, and more cared for.
As we dive into the holiday season, we hope this issue offers a little extra spark to get involved, lend a hand, and spread joy. There are countless ways, big and small, to make a positive impact. Thank you for all that you do, and for continuing to be part of our vibrant, caring community.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know about others who are making a difference. We love hearing your stories and sharing the goodness that’s all around us.
SUZANNE F. SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kayla Bokemeyer | kayla.bokemeyer@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Diane Cowen, Allyson Straczek
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN NOVEMBER 2024
city scene
Want to be seen in the magazine?
1: Deborah Duncan, Alicia Smith at Houston PetSet’s 20th anniversary gala. 2: Tena Lundquist Faust sparkles at Houston PetSet’s 20th anniversary gala. 3: Kat & Ryan Pressly at the ‘Team Up’ fundraiser 4: Kyle Tucker, Sunshine Kid Adonis Braithwaite, Josh Hader at the ‘Team Up’ fundraiser 5: Sara Khalifa, Mia Ford, Alyssa Stander at the Houston Cattle Baron’s Ball. 6: Ann & Jonathan Ayre at the Houston Cattle Baron’s Ball. 7: Danny & Iris Shaftel, Allie LaForce & Joe Smith at the HelpCureHD evening.
PRISCILLA DICKSON
WILSON PARISH
JACOB POWER
JACOB POWER
PRISCILLA DICKSON
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF
Sky High supports children undergoing treatment for cancer and other lifethreatening conditions
Sky High for Kids is dedicated to eradicating childhood cancer by supporting groundbreaking research, life-saving treatments, and patient care. With a commitment to helping children and families battling pediatric cancer, Sky High for Kids partners with hospitals and organizations worldwide. Through fundraising events, corporate partnerships, and community involvement, the organization has raised millions to fund innovative therapies and provide comfort to children in need, working tirelessly to bring an end to pediatric cancer.
The Periwinkle Foundation's Iron Bartender announces winners; raises $52,000 for programs
On Thursday, September 12, 120 Periwinkle supporters gathered at the Lyric Market food hall in Houston’s Theater District for the sold-out Iron Bartender event, Houston’s premier bartender competition. Iron Bartender supporters generated more than $52,000 to further the community of healing, which provides positive camps, arts and survivor programs to children and teens challenged by cancer and other life-threatening illnesses who are treated at Texas Children's Hospital.
Communities In Schools receives over $470,000 in school supply donations
From July 31 – August 27, HEB customers across Texas donated $470,706 at cash registers statewide with $105,432 raised locally in Greater Houston going directly to CIS of Houston for back-to-school supplies for students. These funds will equip CIS to ensure Houston-area students are ready for a great school year regardless of their economic situation. All HEB funds stayed local with individual store contributions invested directly into the students, campuses, and districts.
Photography courtesy of Sky High
Photography by Larry Geiger
Photography Courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston
Central Market sets new Guinness World Record for Largest Charcuterie Board
GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ representatives officially declared Central Market’s colossal charcuterie board as “the largest charcuterie board in the world to be created and consumed” on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. In honor of Central Market’s 30th anniversary, the retailer attempted to break the record and did so with a 12-foot by 24-foot charcuterie board with 1,000 pounds of artisanal meats and cheeses, accompanied by crackers, fruits, nuts, and more.
SENSORY EXPERIENCES
Designer Gail McCleese makes her mark on the hospitality industry in Houston.
ARTICLE BY DIANE COWEN
Gail McCleese sits in a curvy booth at Annabelle Brasserie, watching other diners experience the setting she helped create: a ceiling dripping with colorful faux florals and French country style using materials so plush you want to reach out and stroke them.
One of the newest restaurants from Berg Hospitality and interior designer Gail McCleese is Buttermilk Baby. Photo by Kirsten Gilliam
“Biophilia is important to me. I like to bring in nature or the sense of a garden since we’re stuck inside so much.” – Gail McCleese
“Biophilia is important to me. I like to bring in nature or the sense of a garden since we’re stuck inside so much,” she said. “I’m inspired by nature and cultured travel. I love France, especially Marseilles, but I also like Italy, Ireland and Spain.”
Gail, who has spent nearly four decades creating beautiful interiors at high-end hotels and restaurants, will be the November honoree for the Houston Design District’s Leaders In Design program.
An Ohio native who moved to the Houston area in 1981 with her then-husband, Gail studied interior design at the Art Institute of Houston before building her own nationally-recognized hospitality design firm. She worked at Gensler for a handful of years, then in 2019 opened her boutique
practice, Sensitori, named for her sensory-oriented design ethos.
In Houston, some of her most high-profile projects have included Tilman Fertitta’s Post Oak Hotel, which this fall received a Michelin “key” (the equivalent of a restaurant “star”) along with nine projects she’s worked on with Berg Hospitality, including Annabelle Brasserie, Buttermilk Baby and Turner’s Cut. She’s currently working with Randall and Natalie Davis on the London House high-rise at San Felipe and Shepherd.
While her more than 100 hotel and restaurant projects range in décor and are full of color, Gail describes her own home as a “modern white envelope” filled with modern furniture brands such as Giorgetti and Minotti and colorful art and accessories.
Interior designer Gail McCleese created the upscale décor for Soy Cowboy, a pan - Asian restaurant in the Loews Hotel in Arlington. Photo by Kevin Marple
ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN
Enlightened BEAUTY
LE BLANC GENERAL DENTISTRY & AESTHETICS OFFERS A PERSONALIZED APPROACH TO GENERAL AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY AND AESTHETICS
Katya Kulic’s vision for her dental practice has always been to create an inviting atmosphere, eliminating any fear or discomfort around visiting the dentist. Her vision became a reality with Le Blanc General Dentistry & Aesthetics.
Dr. Katya Kulic and her team specialize in general and cosmetic dentistry as well as facial aesthetics. Their in-house specialists eliminate the need for referrals and improve patient care. She prides herself on educating her patients about dental health and the natural anti-aging treatments available.
“This is a very exciting time in dentistry; with new technology, we enhance our client’s confidence.”
– Dr. Katya Kulic
From laser teeth whitening to digital AI x-rays to digital full-mouth scans, Dr. Kulic incorporates technology into her practice to better serve the needs of her patients. “This is a very exciting time in dentistry; with new technology, we enhance our client’s confidence by improving smiles as well as the entire face non-surgically and non-invasively.” Dr. Kulic says.
These innovative, non-invasive treatments require very little to no downtime:
EMFACE harnesses the combination of Synchronized radiofrequency (RF) and HighIntensity Facial Electromagnetic Stimulation (HIFES™). This tightens facial muscles and enhances the collagen production in the skin for a firmer, more youthful appearance.
EXION combines the transformative powers of fractional radiofrequency (RF) and microneedling. It uses AI technology to deliver a precise amount of fractional RF into the deeper layers of the skin promoting the growth of healthy skin cells and enhanced collagen formation.
Sofwave™ Medical takes a novel approach to skin tightening, using the fractional heating effect via unique ultrasound delivery. This process stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
“If our smile is the focal point of our face, once we achieve a healthy, beautiful smile, it’s optimal to lift and tighten the rest of the canvas.” Dr. Kulic loves her clients and is passionate about what she does.
Taking the time to get to know her clients allows Dr. Kulic to work with her patients to effectively reach their goals strategically and conservatively. “Thankfully, with our cutting-edge technology, we can turn back the aging clock and give our patients a more youthful version of themselves,” Dr. Kulic says.
leblanccosmeticdentistry.com
Dr. Katya Kulic
Roots of Goodness
WE ARE SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL NONPROFITS MAKING A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY.
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF
Community Family Centers food distribution.
Photo courtesy of Community Family Centers
Astrodome Conservancy
Established in June of 2016, the Astrodome Conservancy is a private nonprofit championing the future of the Houston Astrodome – the globe’s first indoor, air-conditioned domed stadium. As the leading advocate for the Astrodome, the Conservancy’s mission is to promote the building’s legacy through preservation and development in partnership with Harris County, to advocate for public access and to create programming that inspires and engages. The Conservancy offers multiple avenues for the public to get involved with the organization – from fundraising support via its Chairman’s Circle, and events such as the annual Race for the Dome, to petitions and outreach initiatives. astrodomeconservancy.org
La Petite Maison Gala
Founded in 2022 by Houston based interior designer, Alexandra Killion, the event to auction designer dollhouses raised over $300k and has since grown in size and notoriety each season. Top interior designers and entrepreneurs shrink and showcase their most creative and inspiring miniature curated spaces. Bidding for these coveted works of art has seen upward of $18k apiece. In its third season, LPMG is growing and set to take place December 4th at Hotel ZaZa in Houston’s Museum District. The evening will be an array of wintry fun with an Apres Ski theme. Killion will be joined by co-chairs: interior designer Lauren Wills Grover and charity gala and philanthropy alums Madelon McGrenera and Shellyn Shoenthal. petitemaisongala.com
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Houston
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Houston, a nonprofit that provides a “home away from home” for families whose children are receiving treatment for serious illnesses or injuries at the Texas Medical Center will be hosting its 15th Annual Trafigura Run for the House on Saturday, December 7 at Sam Houston Park. This USATF-certified 10K/5K run, walk, and wheel event brings the Houston community together to support families with children undergoing medical treatment. The event welcomes everyone and best of all, 100% of the proceeds benefit RMHC Greater Houston, making it a meaningful way for the community to give back. rmhchouston.org/event/run-for-the-house
Photo courtesy of the Astrodome Conservancy
La Petite Maison Gala event coordinator Shellyn Shoenthal with co-chairs Lauren Wills Grover and Alexandra Killion. Photo by Lauren Holub Photography
Ronald McDonald House Trafigura Run. Photo courtesy of RMHGH
Pink Bows Foundation
Pink Bows Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Houston, was founded as a tribute to Madison Dubiski, who lost her life at the Travis Scott Astroworld Music Festival. The organization’s mission is to promote stronger safety protocols to be consistently implemented at entertainment venues, while providing safe spaces and protecting attendees to prevent avoidable injuries or death. The Foundation also created Pink Bows Safe Space™, for individuals needing a calm environment with access to a Mental Health Advocate at events. They have served thousands of attendees during Bayou City Art Festivals, “Deck the Hall Ball”, Houston Art Car Parade, and the Big As Texas Fest. pinkbowsfoundation.org
BIPOC Arts Network and Fund
BIPOC Arts Network and Fund, or BANF, aims to revolutionize the local funding landscape, break down silos within the arts ecosystem, and welcome everyone to support and learn from BIPOC arts communities. BANF utilizes equity-focused and community-participatory funding initiatives; community-informed evaluation and learning practices; and asset-based network building strategies to inform leadership, advocacy, and action. BANF was created in a time of crisis to provide resources and networks that support the vibrant Black, Latinx, Indigenous, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern and other communities of color of Greater Houston in fully displaying their power, values and traditions. houstonbanf.org
Community Family Centers
Community Family Centers’ (CFC) mission is to equip families with the tools they need to become self-sufficient members of the community. CFC educates individuals, supports families, and strengthens the community by: Providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to excel, Promoting opportunities for adults to learn, and Advancing cultural understanding and community partnerships. CFC offers community-based social and educational services to low-income families in Houston’s East End. Since its inception in 1972, CFC has grown to an agency with an annual budget exceeding $2.6 million and serves more than 40,000 clients each year. communityfamilycenters.org
Madison Dubiski. Photo courtesy of Pink Bows Foundation
Bao Long Chu of Houston Endowment. Photo courtesy of BiPOC Arts Network and Fund
Community Family Centers' back to school event. Photo courtesy of Community Family Centers
Remote
Protect
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
IF YOU EAT ONE THING
THE CRAB CAKES FROM BALBOA SURF CLUB ARE EVERYTHING DINERS COULD WANT IN THIS SEAFOOD CLASSIC.
Balboa Surf Club is known for its delicious, fresh seafood, which makes it hard to pick a favorite dish. If pressed, however, their best-selling crab cakes might be it. This quintessential crab cake is made with no filler ingredients to let the dish shine with pure flavor. Large enough for an entree, each dish includes two jumbo lumps – the equivalent of two dozen crabs. The entree is served with French fries for dipping (more on that later), making it a solid choice for any meal. balboasurfclub.com
THE CRAB
Balboa Surf Club sources fresh, unpasteurized, never-frozen domestic crab. The location changes depending on the time of year, but the restaurant follows crab season along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts to ensure maximum freshness and quality.
THE
MIX-INS
In order to let the quality of the crab shine, the culinary team at Balboa Surf Club never uses filler in their crab cake. The jumbo lumps are held together by a light egg mixture to help the crab cake keep its shape.
THE BREADCRUMB CRUST
The breadcrumb crust is made daily from the restaurant’s house-baked bread. Each side of the crab cake is dipped into the housemade crumbs and seared into a crisp exterior.
THE SAUCE
The lemon, butter, and dill sauce is a simple finish that highlights the delicate flavor of the crab. The dish is served with French fries because, according to the team, “they are the perfect vehicle for swiping up any leftover sauce.”
Balboa Surf Club, The Crab Cake.
Photo by Western Addition
ARTICLE BY MEMORIAL LIFESTYLE STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MEMORIAL PARK CONSERVANCY
Memorial Park Celebrating a Century of Memories:
WITH GRATITUDE FOR BRINGING HOUSTONIANS A CENTURY OF OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES, WE LOOK BACK AT WHAT MEMORIAL PARK HAS MEANT TO THE CITY.
Memorial Park Kinder Land Bridge Facing Northeast. Photo by Nick Hubbard
Since 1924, Memorial Park has been a sought-after destination for Houstonians wanting to get outdoors. Spanning 1,500 acres—twice the size of New York's Central Park—the park offers hiking, biking, running, tennis, golf, and relaxation opportunities. Located in the heart of Houston, it holds the title of one of the largest urban parks in the country.
A HISTORICAL LANDMARK
The City of Houston purchased Memorial Park's land from the Hogg family to be used "only for park purposes." The park occupies what was once Camp Logan, a World War I training camp for 70,000 soldiers. In recognition of its military history, the park was named Memorial Park to honor those who trained and fought during the war. Due to its historical significance, Camp Logan is now an archaeologically protected site.
DEVELOPMENT OVER TIME
For much of its history, Memorial Park underwent gradual development, including becoming a nature preserve and building the Arboretum and Nature Center as an educational and urban wildlife sanctuary. Improvements, including running trails and sculptures, were added to the park and continued over several decades. However, it wasn't until 2000, when the Memorial Park Conservancy was established, that significant changes began to take shape. The Conservancy raised funds for major projects, such as the construction of the Living Bridge renovation of the Alkek Tennis Center, and additional running trails were introduced.
Camp Logan, circa 1917, was a World War I Army training facility located where Memorial Park is now.
Photo by Trey Stephens
THE MASTER PLAN
In 2015, the City of Houston approved a long-term master plan for Memorial Park. The Memorial Park Conservancy, in collaboration with partners including Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects, the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, and the Uptown Development Authority, began several revitalization projects.
One of the most notable developments was the Clay Family Eastern Glades, which preserves the park's original ecosystem. The Glades include 550 newly planted native trees and host over 150 species of wildlife. Memorial Park's landscape was once predominantly grasslands, and Eastern Glades features 4.5 acres of native savanna habitat, with an open canopy of trees that supports grasses and wildflowers. The addition of Hines Lake further enhances this ecosystem by creating 1.5 acres of emergent wetlands, which serve as a habitat for various birds and native plant species.
A LANDMARK PROJECT: THE KINDER LAND BRIDGE
Construction on the Kinder Land Bridge and Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Prairie project was completed in 2023. This significant addition to the park reconnected its north and south sides, creating a bridge for both people and wildlife. The Land Bridge also restored endangered Gulf Coast prairie habitats and added more wetlands to the area. Along with improving connectivity, these projects restored native ecosystems that had been altered over time.
Other noteworthy projects include the Sports Complex, Running Complex, and the Seymour Lieberman Trail Ravine Bridges. These initiatives continue to improve the park's recreational offerings while preserving its natural environment.
Aerial image of Camp Logan. Courtesy of the San Diego Air & Space Museum
Biking near the Memorial Drive Tunnels.
The “Biggest Picnic in Texas” commemorated Memorial Park’s 100th anniversary.
“These projects that the Conservancy and our project partners have delivered are really transforming Memorial Park. They embrace all Houstonians and create more space for recreation, community, and enjoying nature. The fact that it is right in the middle of the city is really unique.”
– Holli Clements, Vice President of Engagement, Memorial Park Conservancy
Another major initiative, Memorial Groves, is slated for completion by 2027. This 100acre area will pay tribute to the soldiers who trained at Camp Logan. Memorial Groves will include the remains of Camp Logan structures, new trees, and an interactive memorial that educates visitors about the Camp's history.
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS
In 2024, Memorial Park began celebrating its 100th anniversary. To mark this milestone, the Memorial Park Conservancy hosted "The Biggest Picnic in Houston" in March 2024, inviting all Houstonians to join in the festivities. To keep the celebration going, Memorial Park began "Live at Live Oak" in September and will continue these events, designed to align with important cultural celebrations four times yearly. The first two events celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month and Diwali, and the upcoming "Live at Live Oak" celebrations in January and February will coincide with the Lunar New Year and Black History Month.
Additionally, a “A Century of Stories: Celebrating Memorial Park” is available for visitors in Eastern Glades through the end of the year. This self-guided tour is a temporary installation that honors the history of Camp Logan. More details about Memorial Park's centennial events and projects can be found at memorialparkconservancy.org.
Memorial Park at sunrise.
Many
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ISLAND ODYSSEY
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GRACE BAY RESORTS
Grace Bay Resort
Grace Bay Resorts in Turks and Caicos makes it easy to experience a fantastic winter getaway.
With over 7,000 islands in the Caribbean, picking the ideal winter escape can be challenging. But Turks and Caicos, with its pristine white beaches and clear blue waters, is a perfect option for those looking to swap chilly weather for a sunny retreat.
This archipelago, 575 miles southeast of Florida, consists of 40 islands and cays. Providenciales "Provo" and Grand Turk are the most populated among the nine inhabited islands. Provo is home to the largest number of resorts, restaurants, and shops, making it a hub for visitors. Recently ranked the #1 Best Place to Visit in the Caribbean for 2023 by U.S. News & World Report, Turks and Caicos is the perfect spot for slowing down and embracing the relaxed island lifestyle.
In addition to its beautiful landscapes, the islands offer rich culture, warm hospitality, and luxurious accommodations, making it a destination worth adding to any travel list.
BEST TIME TO VISIT PROVIDENCIALES
With over 350 days of sunshine a year and temperatures that never drop below 75 degrees, it's hard to go wrong when choosing a time to visit Turks and Caicos. The high season is between December and April, when visitors escape colder climates. The rest of the year is quieter, with July and August being the hottest months, similar to Texas summers.
HOW TO GET TO TURKS AND CAICOS FROM HOUSTON
Traveling to Turks and Caicos is easy. A short flight to Miami followed by a quick hop to Providenciales can have you enjoying a beachside cocktail by noon. Some airlines offer direct flights to Provo during peak travel times, but it's a good idea to plan ahead for the best fares and schedules.
WHERE TO STAY IN TURKS AND CAICOS
GRACE BAY CLUB
Grace Bay Club, located on the famed Grace Bay Beach, is the island's oldest luxury resort. It's three resorts in one, catering to couples, families, and larger groups such as wedding parties. Accommodations range from Junior Suites and Villa Penthouse Suites to expansive five-bedroom residences at The Estates. Onsite dining options include casual spots and fine dining, and the resort is within walking distance of local shops and restaurants. Grace Bay Club is a versatile choice for travelers with an adults-only area and excellent kids' programs.
GRACE BAY RESORTS PRIVATE VILLA COLLECTION
For those who prefer a more secluded stay, Grace Bay Resorts offers a collection of private beachfront villas. These spacious, freestanding villas—ranging from four to 13 bedrooms— come with personalized services like an on-call butler and access to resort restaurants. Larger villas also feature a private chef and butlers trained by the Butlers Guild in England. Guests can enjoy beachfront relaxation, water sports, and all the comforts of a home away from home.
ROCK HOUSE
Rock House, one of the newest additions to Turks and Caicos' luxury scene, offers a boutique experience with 46 oceanfront villa-style rooms. Nestled into the limestone cliffs, the resort provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Grace Bay. Designed with a chic, modern vibe, Rock House combines Caribbean charm with a touch of Mediterranean style, complete with macrame umbrellas, daybeds, and cabanas. The infinity pool is the resort's social hub, offering gorgeous views and easy access to the nearby Cave Bar and Vita Restaurant. Since its opening in 2022, Rock House has quickly become one of the top choices for discerning travelers. gracebayresorts.com
Grace Bay Private Villa
Rock House, one of the newest properties in Turks & Caicos offers delicious meals at its restaurants and bars. Tuna tartare at Rock House.
View of Rock House's infinity pool.
Flavor Hunter
GET READY TO IGNITE YOUR NEXT MEAL AT THESE SIX HOUSTON RESTAURANTS.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
When it comes to food, it’s more than just flavor on the line. Ambiance, presentation, and of course, taste all play a part. But for those who crave a bit of drama with their meal, nothing brings more excitement than setting it ablaze. If you’re looking to heat up your dining experience, check out these six Houston restaurants where the dishes come with a side of fire.
| IMAGE 1
(Facing page) Nobu Houston, Japanese A5 Wagyu.
Photo courtesy of Nobu Houston
| IMAGE 2
Toca Madera, Tomahawk + Bone Marrow. Photo courtesy of Toca Madera
| IMAGE 3
Toro Toro, 52-ounce Prime Tomahawk. Photo by Jenn Duncan
| IMAGE 4
Azumi, Flaming King Crab Roll.
Photo courtesy of Atlas Restaurant Group
| IMAGE 5
Zanti Cucina, Flambe Pizza.
Photo courtesy of Zanti Cucina
| IMAGE 6
Brennan’s of Houston, Bananas Foster. Photo by Kimberly Park
Local Luxury Home Design
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK
NOEL
HOME, A FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS, HAS BEEN A PART OF THE HOUSTON COMMUNITY FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS.
"Home is where love resides, memories are created, friends and family belong, and laughter never ends." While the author remains unknown, this inspirational quote speaks not only to the soul of a home but also to the mission of Noel Home Luxury Living. For 47 years, this family-run business has been dedicated to exquisite design, offering a perfect blend of luxury and affordability.
When visitors enter the Noel Home showroom, they enter a spectacular showcase of design possibilities. Unique luxury brands, store exclusives, and one-of-a-kind pieces are effortlessly styled alongside traditional furniture. Modern and transitional pieces are woven together, complementing each other seamlessly and accommodating any price point. With the curated showroom, down-to-earth family atmosphere, and some of the best design experts in the country, the store lives up to its reputation as one of the finest furniture stores in America.
Noel Home's 40,000 sqaure-foot showroom features original art, unique home decor, and hand-woven rugs.
““Noel Home is a neighborhood premium showroom that provides luxury furniture with a down-to-earth expert design experience to fit any budget.” – Todd Noel
And with Southern hospitality at the heart of the long-time business, each visitor is treated as a guest in a home. Owner Tod Noel, his brother RC, and other family members have flawlessly decorated Houston homes for decades. Several employees have worked at Noel Home for more than 40 years. Now, their family members work alongside them to service customers in Houston and nationwide. This inclusive multi-generational family atmosphere translates to a worldclass guest experience. "It's unusual for customers in our industry to ask for specific team members, but it happens daily here," explains Tod Noel. "Long-term relationships develop between our customers and our team."
Working with the in-house team of ASIDcertified designers makes memories for customers. Noel's complimentary design services extend from concept to installation. "When possible, our designers help install the furniture in our client's homes to ensure that it fits perfectly, is positioned correctly, and is aesthetically on point."
Tod's mission of home extends into the local Houston community. "Spend it here, keep it here," he explains. Supporting businesses in Houston strengthens the local economy and sustains Houston families.
As a prominent business centrally located in the Upper Kirby district, Noel Home actively supports community organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Peach Outreach, and many others. noelhome.com
Noel Home is centrally located in the Upper Kirby district at 59 and Kirby.
Noel Home offers wide variety of high-quality inventory from the most prestigious brands.
NOVEMBER 2024
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 3RD
Marc Anthony Historia Tour
Toyota Center | 8:00 PM
The multi-talented singer, dancer, actor, songwriter, and producer Marc Anthony will be in Houston on November 3. The true ambassador of Latin music and culture will present Houstonians with the hits like "Pa'lla Voy," "Mala," "Ojala Te Duela," and more! Don't miss the Historia Tour coming to Houston this fall.
NOVEMBER 7TH
Steel Magnolia Moms Holiday Market
The Powder Keg on Brittmoore | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Shop for a good cause at the annual Steel Magnolia Moms Holiday Market, an event which showcases local businesses while supporting the organization’s mission to help moms with special needs children. With over 50 vendors, amazing raffle prizes, artisan food and a signature cocktail, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Houston Symphony: Clap
Your Hands, Say Yeah!
Jones Hall | 10:00 AM
Tap your toes, stamp your feet, and sing along as you journey through quintessential American genres like jazz, blues, gospel, and even patriotic tunes! Charismatic singer and trumpeter Byron Stripling will have your little ones singing, dancing, and clapping along in this fun and interactive concert filled with music and stories. Get ready to hear beloved favorites that everyone knows and loves!
NOVEMBER 9TH
Houston Grand Opera
Family Day: Cinderella
Brown Theater | 11:00 AM
Houston Grand Opera is proud to announce the company’s first annual HGO Family Day, a special performance of Rossini’s crowd-pleasing Cinderella. The brand-new initiative is part of a slate of HGO programming intended to serve students, families, and the Houston community. Directed by Grammy Award-winning mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard, the Family Day show will be a 90-minute, English-language, performance of Cinderella.
NOVEMBER 10TH
It Don't Mean a Thing: Swingin' Uptown Classics with Byron Stripling
Jones Hall | 2:00 PM
It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing! Inspired by legendary musical hot spots like The Cotton Club and The Savoy, this electrifying concert will transport you to Harlem’s hippest nightclub, when Duke Ellington’s orchestra was the house band and Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, and Ethel Waters showcased the biggest jazz hits of the day.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Cyndi Lauper Girls
Just wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour
Toyota Center | 8:00 PM
Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning songwriter and performing artist Cyndi Lauper will be in Houston on November 16. In celebration of the Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour, Lauper also released LET THE CANARY SING, a feature-length documentary film that explores her extraordinary life and career (available on Paramount+).
Nov 16 – Dec 29
Memorial City Mall, Houston, TX
REAL HOLIDAY MAGIC IS COMING
A FESTIVE NEW IMMERSIVE HOLIDAY LIGHT EXPERIENCE
CONTINUED
NOVEMBER 16TH
Coca Cola
Classic Christmas
Memorial City Mall | 12:00 PM
Step into a world of Real Holiday Magic at Coca-Cola's Classic Christmas. This season, cherished holiday traditions come to life at Memorial City Mall amid a spectacle of dazzling lights. Crafted by the creators of the renowned World's Largest Christmas Light Maze, Enchant Christmas, this immersive holiday celebration promises to create unforgettable moments of togetherness and joy at this beloved time of year.
NOVEMBER 16TH
The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Jones Hall | 7:30 PM
Back by popular demand! Watch as Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is projected in its entirety on the big screen, accompanied by Danny Elfman’s darkly charming score played live by the orchestra.
NOVEMBER 21ST
Kacey Musgraves Deeper
Well World Tour
Toyota Center | 7:30 PM
Seven-time GRAMMY Award-winning singer/songwriter Kacey Musgraves will be in Houston on November 21. In 2023 Musgraves achieved her first #1 entry on the Hot 100 chart for “I Remember Everything,” a duet with Zach Bryan which was just crowned with the Best Country Song by a Duo or Group at the 66th Grammy Awards.
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