River Oaks, TX November 2023 by City Lifestyle

E V E N T P L A N N I N G + S E RV I C E S

GET I NSPI RED BY STU N N ING FALL TABLESCAPES FRO M HOUSE O F HOUGH F O O D + B E V E R AG E

TRY YOU R HAN D AT SE A SO NAL CO CK TAI LS FRO M H OUSTO N M IXO LO GISTS TR AV E L

PL AN A TRI P TO BE AUTIFU L SANTA FE DISCOVER RO N IN FARM & RESTAU RANT

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ROOFING DONE RIGHT

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

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

M E N T I O N R I V E R O A K S L I F E S T Y L E T O R E C E I V E A C O M P L I M E N TA R Y I N S P E C T I O N

2 8 1 - 5 6 5 - 7 6 6 3 | D U Q U E RO O F I N G .CO M

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Special Than ks To Ou r Pa r tn e rs

For information on our special advertising program for local restaurants, contact Jeremy Hetmaniak at Jeremy.Hetmaniak@citylifestyle.com

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

A Season Of Gratitude

November 2023 PUBLISHER

Suzanne Schakett suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

I hope this letter finds you well and filled with the warmth of gratitude as we enter the season of Thanksgiving. In this special issue of River Oaks Lifestyle, we are shifting our focus from carefree, summertime memories to the true treasures that make our community exceptional - the people and organizations that inspire goodness. In our annual Roots of Goodness feature, we are honored to shine a spotlight on those who have cultivated a culture of giving right here in H-Town. A nod to unsung heroes and local champions, these individuals and groups work diligently to help others and make our community a better place. From grassroots initiatives to charitable foundations, their dedication to making a difference is nothing short of remarkable. As we delve into their inspiring stories, let us be reminded that kindness knows no bounds, and together, we can sow the seeds of change. As the air turns crisper, we invite you to embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving. Beyond the delectable feasts and family gatherings, this season is a time to reflect on the blessings we've received and express our gratitude. In this issue, you'll find the latest fall entertaining trends in our feature Easy Elegance, and some fabulous Cozy Cocktails to turn your holiday parties into something extraordinary. For those experiencing wanderlust, join us on a captivating journey to Santa Fe, where history, culture, and art converge in a unique and vibrant tapestry. Experience the city's rich Native American and Hispanic heritage, explore its adobe architecture, and immerse yourself in the art scene that has drawn creatives from all corners of the world. Santa Fe is a place where traditions and modernity dance harmoniously, offering a truly enriching escape. As we come together to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season, let's give thanks for the generosity in our hearts and the countless opportunities to make a positive difference. May the stories in this issue serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, prompting each one of us to share just a bit more kindness, compassion, and care for our wonderful neighbors. Wishing you a Thanksgiving season filled with goodness and joy,

Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com SALES DIR ECTOR

Suzanne Schakett suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANTS

Kayla Shutts | kayla.shutts@citylifestyle.com Claire Sanchez | claire.sanchez@citylifestyle.com SALES SUPPORT COOR DINATOR

Savannah Schakett CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Gabi De la Rosa, River Oaks Lifestyle Staff

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

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Proverbs 3:5-6 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River Oaks area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Easy Elegance

Lifestyle Letter

Clara Hough, owner of specialty linen company House of Hough gives tips on how

City Scene

to create the perfect holiday tablescape.

Business Monthly

Hosting Tips EV ENT PLA NNI NG + SE RV IC E S

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Happy Hour FO O D + B EV ER AG E

Travel Journal T R AV EL

Events

Road Trip T R AV EL

26 Cozy Cocktails

Let’s raise a glass to warm sweaters, crisp air, and cocktails that warm us from the inside out.

32 Hitting the High Notes in Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico offers visitors the best of culture, dining and a packed itinerary of activities to explore.

40 Places We Love: Ronin Farm & Restaurant Ronin Farm & Restaurant definitely needs to be on your must-try list this fall.

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Photo by Kate Elaine Creative The beautiful fall-inspired tablescape was a work of several Houston businesses including, | Linens: House of Hough | Planning and Design: Vida Planning | Florist: Ponderosa Blooms | Calligraphy: Hendrock Handmade | Dinnerware: Caviar Banana

www.AceroBella.com | 713.465.4800 Monday–Friday 8 am–5 pm by appointment 8560 Katy Freeway, Ste. 160. Houston, TX 77024

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

PRISCILLA DICKSON

ALEX MONTOYA

2 DANIEL ORTIZ ALEX MONTOYA

PRISCILLA DICKSON

QUY TRAN

1: Lisete Maldonado, Josselin Kendig and Leslie Cherubin at Gremillion on Sunset. 2: Gaby Reyes and Horten Barrios at the Museo Institute for Medical Arts grand opening. 3: Sandy Walker, CeCe Burbach and Raychel Walker at the Junior League Style Show. 4: Cathy Sia, CeCe Cook, Development Vice President Elizabeth Kendrick at the Junior League Style Show. 5: Marko Dasigenis, Dr. Mike Mann and Carl Black at the Museo Institute for Medical Arts grand opening. 6: Allie LaForce, her son Jacob Smith, Aubrey LaForce at the HelpCureHD gala held in Union Station at Minute Maid Park. 7: Faye Bouchaal and Shaun Bradley at the Gremillion on Sunset celebration.

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

C I T Y SC E N E

Meet Hardy Pollard TOP PRODUCING REALTOR ASSOCIATE Hardy Pollard, a top real estate professional in Houston, specializes in high-end areas like River Oaks, Montrose and Tanglewood. With over $15 million in sales within his first two years, he’s known for selling challenging properties, including a notable midcentury modern home in Memorial. His prior career as a fitness instructor at the Houstonian Club has contributed to his success, providing an extensive network that sets him apart from competitors. Clients value his honesty, work ethic, and commitment to their interests. Pollard’s love for family drives him, and he continues to serve as a group fitness instructor. He is a member of Texas REALTORS and a Christie’s Luxury Specialist.

(713) 498-9249 hardy.pollard@nanproperties.com

Our Clients Say It Best! In a short 14 days, our agent with Nan and Company Properties assisted in closing 3 varied properties: a townhouse in Rice Military, a mid-rise condo across from the beautiful Buffalo Bayou, and a home on acreage in a country estate neighborhood. I strongly recommend Nan and Company Properties and their team of extremely talented agents. J. Jones

Meet Luanne Marshall

R EA LT O R A S S O CI AT E

Known for building genuine relationships throughout her career, Luanne is a distinguished Top Producer, Christie’s Luxury Specialist & Christie’s Masters Circle Member.

(832) 419-0685 luanne.marshall@nanproperties.com

71 3.714. 6454

@nanproperties | nanproperties.com

Honestly, there isn’t enough good things I could say about them. They got us into our beautiful new first home within a month or two and supported us every step of the way. Whether it’s selling, buying, renting, anything. We are so happy we chose Nan and Company Properties! J. Rodriguez

#1 and #2 in Total Sales and Transactions by HBJ, 2022

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Shake Shack Expands On-Demand Delivery Through Partnership with Favor Delivery Shake Shack is excited to announce it will now offer on-demand delivery through Texas-based food delivery service, Favor Delivery. Shake Shack’s full menu is now available for delivery through Favor’s app from all Shake Shack locations across Texas. To celebrate the partnership, the two companies are donating a total of $50,000 to the Southern Smoke Foundation to fund the nonprofit’s efforts to support members of Texas’ food and beverage industry through emergency relief funding and access to mental health services. favordelivery.com Photography Shake Shack & Favor Delivery

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

2022 TOP PRODUCER SPARK announces 40th year celebration with $10 million campaign To commemorate 40 years of building community parks, SPARK School Park Program announced a $10 million campaign to build 40 school parks in four years in the Greater Houston area, including 20 new and 20 “reSPARK’ed” parks. It is anticipated that several parks will be dedicated during SPARK Week, November 13-17. The Kinder Foundation and Houston Endowment have each provided $3.5 million in funding, while $1 million has been donated by The Brown Foundation. sparkpark.org Photography Spark School Park Program

Palacios-Murphy Hospitality Group to open Second Location of Mandito's Tex-Mex Palacios Murphy Hospitality Group will open Mandito's Tex-Mex in Katy in 2024. This Mandito's Tex-Mex will be the second in Houston after their successful opening in Bellaire earlier this year. With a slightly larger footprint at 208 seats, Mandito’s will serve elevated Tex-Mex cuisine set against a casual backdrop that is designed to be welcoming to the surrounding neighborhood, as well as visitors from all parts of Houston. manditostexmex.com

Happy

T H A N KS G I V I N G Thankful for all my clients: past, present & future!

713.825.6295

mwhite@garygreene.com

MEMORIAL GREEN OFFICE 12505 Memorial Drive, Ste 245

GaryGreene.com © Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Better Homes and Gardens® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

Photography Palacios-Murphy

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Take Proactive Steps Today to Protect Your Vision November – Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

EYE DISEASES

AWARENESS

PREVENTION

People with diabetes are more

Recent studies have revealed low awareness

The American Academy of

likely to develop blinding

of the issue among those at higher risk for

Ophthalmology encourages

eye diseases, such as diabetic

diabetes. These findings signal that many

those with diabetes to take

retinopathy, glaucoma

Americans may not be defending themselves

proactive steps to protect

and cataracts.

against diabetes-related vision loss.

their vision.

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Take action, start early. Schedule your eye appointment with Dr. Jenkins today!

CALL (713) 640-2020 YOUR VISIT WILL INCLUDE: Comprehensive Evaluation • Quick Health Scan • Safe, Effective Treatment • Prevention Options

1426 West Gray Street, Houston, Texas 77019 www.todaysvisionriveroaks.com |

VB todaysvisionriveroaks

Give Thanks for Luxury Living! This Thanksgiving, savor the joys of home in our exquisite luxury homes. Experience the comfort, elegance, and space you deserve. Your dream home awaits – let’s make it a reality. Happy Thanksgiving!

WE’LL SEE YOU SOON!

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L EV E LT X .C O M | C A L L U S 9 3 6 - 5 8 5 - 4 0 1 1

Easy

Eleg ance Clara Hough, owner of specialty linen company House of Hough gives tips on how to create the perfect holiday tablescape.

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA

Whether getting ready for a cozy dinner gathering or plotting a grand holiday soiree, table arrangements offer a delightful start to any memorable event. House of Hough, a specialty linen company, focuses on top-notch table-setting concepts that demonstrate a stunning table is much more than a well-chosen dinnerware collection. A beautiful tablescape is an instant icebreaker and will make your guests feel at home. “To me, linens can make any space feel more inviting. They can serve as a backdrop for a large event or even a topic of conversation for a small dinner party,” says the owner of House of Hough, Clara Hough. “They are an important part of the curating process of any event design, and when selected intentionally, they can make an impression.” House of Hough is a part of celebrations to suit every host or hostess, from elegantly understated to extravagantly bold arrangements. Clara has been in the industry for over 20 years and shares her expertise on holiday celebrations and tablescapes. We sat down with Clara to discuss how to make any occasion feel more special.

WHEN DO YOU SUGGEST USING DIFFERENT TONES OF FLATWARE? Different tones in flatware are always something fun and unexpected. There are no rules here; however, one must always ensure the table has a cohesive look. With that said, we suggest keeping traditional flatware if you are looking for a more classic look.

WHAT DO YOU SUGGEST ABOUT CHOOSING A NAPKIN COLOR? SHOULD IT MATCH THE FLOWERS, TABLECLOTH, ETC.? A napkin can serve as a final touch just as much as it can inspire the entire look of the table. One thing to remember is that it should always coordinate with the table’s overall design. I have clients who create an entire mood board based on a napkin print from one of our collections, and that’s always fun. Other times, we may use simple, elegant hemstitch napkins to add a final touch of texture and color contrast on an already elaborated linen.

HOW DO YOU KEEP A TABLESCAPE LIGHT AND BRIGHT WHILE STILL USING DIFFERENT COLORS? Utilizing light-colored or neutral linens is key to achieving this look, as the color can always be brought in through the napkins, floral, glassware, etc. Another way would be to use muted colors and even tone-on-tone table linen with some pattern or

Clara Hough Clara is originally from Venezuela and a proud University of Houston alumni. With a background in hospitality and a degree in business administration, she decided to launch House of Hough in 2005, which quickly became Houston’s best specialty linen rental company.

H OST IN G T IP S | EV ENT PLANNI NG + S E RVI CE S

T O P : Photo by Lauren Holub Photography. Floral Arrangement by Maxit Flower Design R I G H T: Photo by Gracie Byrd Jones L E F T: Photo by Light Bulb League

CONTINUED >

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texture and pair it with neutral florals or even some bold-colored accent centerpieces and place settings to make a statement.

EXPLAIN HOW TO BEST MIX TEXTURES FOR AN INVITING TABLESCAPE. I think the word “match” is often misused in our industry. In reality, what one wants to look for when designing a tablescape is for all the elements used to coordinate and complement one another. The fun part of creating a tablescape is bringing different components and details together and making them work cohesively. By pairing our linens with patterned china, an array of flowers/ candles, or even intricate heirloom pieces, the tablescape can exude richness and luxury while bringing in our clients’ personalities.

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS ON MAKING A MOODY SETTING INVITING? Playing with light and texture is key to creating an intimate tablescape. When hosting an event, I always prefer to utilize some type of illumination on the table. To get this look, use candles or battery operated lanterns (there are so many gorgeous styles nowadays) on the tables or simply position the table near the right window. Nothing beats good natural lighting.

TELL ME ABOUT DECORATING WITH NATURAL ELEMENTS. When working with textiles, the colors can sometimes be quite saturated; bringing natural decor elements such as fruits, wood, or florals helps soften the table’s overall look due to their natural color variation and gradient. We especially love the holiday season when food is served on the table family style and becomes part of the decor.

T O P : Photo by Dani Nichol Photo B O T T O M : Photo by Kate Elaine Creative R I G H T: Photo by Mark L Simmons with Marco Wang Photography

H OST IN G T IP S | EV ENT PLANNI NG + S E RVI CE S

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ROOTS OF GOODNESS ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

THESE HOUSTON NONPROFITS PROVIDE A WAY FOR PEOPLE TO WORK TOGETHER FOR THE COMMON GOOD.

Houston SPCA The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is a guiding force for our furry friends. With a mission to protect and advocate for animals in need, this organization has been at the forefront of the animal welfare movement for nearly a century. Established in 1924, the Houston SPCA boasts a rich history of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals of all shapes and sizes. From the tiniest kittens to larger animals like horses, their dedicated team does everything in their power to ensure the well-being of animals. The Houston SPCA is known for its cutting-edge Animal Wellness Center. Here, skilled veterinarians and caregivers provide top-notch medical care and love to distressed animals. Their commitment doesn’t stop there; they tirelessly educate the community about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering. The Houston SPCA plays an essential role in preserving the bond between humans and animals. Their unwavering efforts remind us that compassion is the key to a better world for all living beings, one paw at a time. houstonspca.org Photo by Houston SPCA

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

Photo by Alzeimer’s Association of Houston & Southeast Texas

Alzheimer’s Association of Houston & Southeast Texas

The Alzheimer’s Association® is the foremost voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. It was established in 1980 by a coalition of family caregivers and scientists. Globally, an estimated 50 million individuals grapple with dementia, with the United States alone harboring more than 6 million who have Alzheimer’s, accompanied by over 11 million unpaid caregivers. The Association confronts this pressing crisis by furnishing education and assistance to the countless souls facing dementia daily. It propels pivotal research endeavors toward developing treatment, prevention, and a cure. Annually conducted across over 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s most significant fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. This inspiring event rallies participants spanning all age groups and abilities to unite against the disease. While registration for the Walk entails no fee, all participants are encouraged to raise funds. The funds help the Alzheimer’s Association support research endeavors that avert, treat, and ultimately eradicate Alzheimer’s disease. The next two walks in the Houston area are on November 4 in Houston and November 11 in Sugar Land. For more information or to register for a walk, visit act.alz.org. CONTINUED >

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Photo by Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston

Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston 22

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston (IM) is Houston’s longest-serving interfaith-based social service organization. IM was founded in 1964 as Protestant Charities, and by 1992, IM had adopted its current name to recognize the diverse backgrounds, faiths, and cultures engaged in the organization’s work. Their mission is to bring diverse groups together for dialogue, collaboration, and service to demonstrate our shared beliefs. Interfaith Ministries core programs include Meals on Wheels for Greater Houston and Galveston County/Animeals, delivering more than 1.7 million meals yearly to over 7,300 seniors in Harris, Galveston, and surrounding counties. In addition, seniors’ pets receive free pet food and other services through its Animeals program. In conjunction with the U.S. State Department, Refugee Services resettles thousands of refugees in Houston each year and helps them successfully acculturate to American life. Interfaith Relations and Community Partnerships engage houses of worship, businesses, organizations, and nonprofits in dialogue, collaboration, and service to embrace the philosophy of “Respect Thy Neighbor.” The Vic Samuels Center for Volunteerism and Civic Service is a resource for Houstonians ready to make a continuing and lasting impact on the community through organized service and leadership. imgh.org

Photo by Vita Living

Vita Living

Vita Living is a nonprofit human services agency that provides life-changing support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Texas, allowing them to live meaningful, integrated lives in the community. In 1982, Founder Renée Wallace was determined to create a lifelong home in Houston for her adult son with severe disabilities and challenging behaviors. Since the Beechnut home’s opening in 1985, Vita Living’s goal has been to keep those they serve in the communities they know and love, regardless of evolving healthcare needs. Today, Vita Living serves over 400 children and adults with disabilities through residential services, day program operations, and case management. Vita Living operates 20 group homes in Houston and reaches seven Texas counties with the Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) program. The average age of their residents is over 50 years old, and 65% do not have family. Vita Living is proud to be a leading agency of disability services in Texas, committed to providing tailored support to this vulnerable population, allowing for purposeful community living. vitaliving.org

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Cozy Cocktails LET’S RAISE A GLASS TO WARM SWEATERS, CRISP AIR, AND COCKTAILS THAT WARM US FROM THE INSIDE OUT. During the hottest summer days, people clutch glasses of chilled drinks, seeking respite from the sweltering heat. Summer cocktails serve as a cooling oasis, whether an Aperol Spritz on a bar patio or a refreshing beer on a hot August weekend. As summer yields to fall, ACs are swapped for sweaters, and autumn-inspired cocktails beckon. These drinks exude the season's essence, with robust flavors and colors, often featuring whiskey as the star but also showcasing gin, rum, and vodka. Prepare to immerse yourself in autumn with these cozy cocktails. They will evoke the scent of fallen leaves, cozy candles, and the celebrations to come.

Albi

Turkish Espresso Martini

I N G R E D IE N T S • 1.5 ounce cinnamon infused Ketel One vodka • .5 ounce Mr. Black liqueur • .5 ounce Turkish coffee, syrup • 2 ounce Maven Concentrate espresso

DIRECTIONS Add all ingredients and ice into a mixing glass. Shake ten times and serve in a chilled martini glass. Garnish with finely chopped pistachio and a Turkish delight (a traditional sweet candy).

H AP PY H OU R | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Albi, Turkish Espresso Martini. Photo by Michael Anthony

Julep

Creole Contentment

INGREDIENTS • • • •

1.5 ounce Cognac 1 ounce Rainwater Madeira .5 ounce Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur 2 dashes Regan's Orange Bitters

DIRECTIONS In a mixing glass add all ingredients and stir. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Express lemon zest garnish and discard zest. Adapted from Charles H. Baker’s 1939 Gentlemen’s Companion and found under Brandy Classics on the menu at Julep. Julep, Creole Contentment. Photo by Julie Soefer Le Jardinier, Autumn Sweater. Photo by Alex Montoya

Le Jardinier Autumn Sweater

INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

1 ounce Sazerac Rye Whiskey .5 ounce Pierre Ferrand Cognac 1840 .5 ounce St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram .75 ounce Orange Juice .5 ounce Cinnamon/Cardamom Syrup 1.5-ounces Oat Milk

DIRECTIONS Pour all ingredients and ice in a cocktail shaker. Double strain and pour in a sour coupe glass. Garnish with a charred cinnamon stick and a half wheel of frozen brûléed orange.

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA CONTINUED >

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Betelgeuse Betelgeuse Black Lemon Drop

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • •

.75 ounces vodka .75 ounces Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka .5 ounce William Price Limoncello .75 ounces simple syrup 1 ounce lemon juice 1 dash salt tincture 1/2 bar spoon activated charcoal 2 dashes your favorite color edible glitter

DIRECTIONS

Betelgeuse Betelgeuse, Black Lemon Drop. Photo by Sergio Trevino Brugal 1888, 1888 Treacle. Photo by Brugal 1888

In a shaker tin combine all ingredients. Shake vigorously and double strain into a chilled coupe glass. Rim with black sugar (combine equal parts activated charcoal and refined sugar), and garnish with a dehydrated lemon wheel or a lemon twist.

Brugal 1888 1888 Treacle Carefully crafted with the slightest touch of freshly pressed apple juice and bitters, the 1888 Treacle’s unique take on Brugal 1888’s nearly neat serve compliments the premium rum’s hints of toffee, vanilla, and cinnamon perfectly – making it a delicious sip for fall.

INGREDIENTS • • • •

2 ounces Brugal 1888 1 ounce pressed apple juice .5 ounce sugar syrup 1 dash angostura bitters

DIRECTIONS To recreate this cozy sip all season, simply combine Brugal 1888, fresh apple juice and sugar syrup. Stir over ice, strain into a rocks glass and garnish with some bitters and a dehydrated apple crisp.

H AP PY H OU R | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

R E N O VAT I O N | I N T E R I O R S 7 1 3 . 5 2 2 . 0 8 5 5 | W W W. L AU R AU. C O M

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F E S A N T A 32

H I T TI NG TH E H IGH NOTE S I N SA N TA FE

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

Inn and Spa at Loretto ranked #5 Best Hotel in Santa Fe on Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best List. Photo Credit: Carrie Hellinger

Santa Fe, New Mexico, Texas' closest neighbor to the west, is a short plane ride from anywhere in the state and is home to great outdoor activities, fantastic food, a vibrant art scene and over 400 years of culture to explore. It is easy to see why Santa Fe is on every top 10 list, from Top 10 Cities for Art Lovers to Top Ten Foodie Cities in America and everything in between.

ACTIVITIES

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO OFFERS VISITORS THE BEST OF CULTURE, DINING AND A JAM PACKED ITINERARY OF ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE. ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA

Canyon Road is the third-largest art market in the country, behind New York and Los Angeles. The halfmile stretch of road located in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is home to fine art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Visitors should leave enough time in their itinerary to browse through this one-of-akind destination - it is worth the hours-long exploration. Visitors seeking outdoor time and beautiful panoramic views can visit ancient Indian pueblos and Bandelier National Monument or take a dip in a pristine alpine lake on the Nambe Lake Trail. If spring skiing is your idea of a great time, Ski Santa Fe is among the highest ski areas in the continental United States and offers easy, convenient skiing without all the crowds. The site is braided with a combination of challenging runs but is also an excellent place for first-time skiers or those more comfortable with easier runs. The lift tickets and rentals are reasonable, and the staff and instructors are great, too. What Santa Fe lacks in big-city infrastructure, it makes up for in can't-miss cultural immersion. Meow Wolf, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, Palace of the Governors, Loretto Chapel, Museum of International Folk Art and San Miguel Chapel are a few highlights on a long list of must-see experiences. The Santa Fe Opera draws visitors from all over the world, and the festival

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scene in the southwestern city makes it a top destination for locals and travelers alike. Festivals such as Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta, Santa Fe International Folk Market and The Burning of Zozobra spotlight the city's year-round offerings.

Santa Fe is a foodie's paradise, and visitors will immediately notice that Santa Fe chefs and natives love their red and green chiles. The peppers have historical and cultural significance in New Mexico and are found in many of the dishes and even cocktails. But don't worry, chile-free meals are easy to find at award-winning restaurants all over town. La Choza, The Shed, and Radish and Rye are a great mix of local and tourist favorites.

SLEEP & RELAXATION Santa Fe has excellent accommodations at every price point, but if you are looking for luxury and a great location, the Inn and Spa at Loretto captures the essence of what Santa Fe has to offer. The boutique hotel was built on the site of a Catholic school in the 1970s using the iconic and well-photographed adobe architecture. Guests can take advantage of the hotel's pool or book a signature service at The Spa at Loretto, offering a menu of facials and massages. The hotel also has various food and beverage options, including the award-winning Luminaria restaurant, which serves inventive Southwestern fare. Crafted Cafe offers breakfast, light bites, and an exclusive tasting of New Mexico wine, while The Living Room is a great place to sit and relax over cocktails and light bites in a comfortable environment.

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. NOVEMBER 2ND

Quilt Festival Houston

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G E O R G E R . B R OWN C O NV E NT I O N C E NT E R 1 0 :0 0 A M Visit the largest quilting event of the year in Houston, Texas, on November 2-5, where our authors will be teaching, signing books and speaking. Authors include Patricia Belyea, author of the new book East Meets West Quilts; Heather Ross, author of Boys: An Illustrated Field Guide, Kaffe Fassett and Liza Prior Lucy, authors of Bold Blooms. quilts.com

NOVEMBER 2ND

Wine Meets Whiskey

G I A NT T E XAS DI ST I L L E RS 7 :0 0 P M Saddle up for a wild west evening at the ALZ Corral at Giant Texas Distillers for the Second Annual Wine Meets Whiskey Event benefiting The Alzheimer's Association. The event will begin at 7:00 pm with guests will have the privilege of experiencing a curated tasting featuring three exquisite wines as well as three distinct whiskeys from Giant Texas Distillery. gianttexas.com

NOVEMBER 4 TH

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EVE N TS

Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston Annual Tapestry Gala

H I LTO N A ME R I CAS H OTE L H O USTO N | 6 :30 P M This year’s gala will recognize Tapestry honorees Susan and Dan Boggio and the Spirit of Respect award will be presented to Pastors Juanita

and Rudy Rasmus of St. John’s United Methodist Church. Event Cochairs are Karen and Jay Harberg, and Tehmina and Dr. Faisal Masud. Honorary Chairs are Brigitte and Bashar Kalai. imgh.org

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2023 Walk to End Alzheimer's

UNIVE RSITY OF HOUSTON AT LYNN E U SAN PAR K | 8 :00 AM Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's® is the world's largest fundraiser for Alzheimer's care, support and research. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. Come together for an inspiring community event that celebrates our commitment to ending the disease. act.alg.org

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Delicious Alchemy Banquet

HO PE FARM S | 7:00 PM Recipe for Success Foundation’s annual Delicious Alchemy Banquet celebrates 18 years of their work to teach, empower and inspire healthy eating. Join Gracie and Bob Cavnar for ten exquisite courses celebrating Houston’s rich culinary diversity, crafted by ten extraordinary chefs, in the glorious pastoral setting of Hope Farms. recipe4success.org

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Alley Theatre 17th Annual Deck The Trees

A LLEY TH E ATER | 12:00 PM Alley Theatre’s 17th annual Deck The Trees is a spectacular display of trees showcased at both Alley Theatre and George R. Brown Convention Center along Avenida de las Americas from November 17 through January 1. alleytheatre.org

Good luck to your favorite team. Let’s win together! Rhett and Peyton Ross West University Residents for over 20 years

Realtor-Associate® Circle of Excellence 823-483-0756 rhett.ross@sothebys.realty NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / R I V E R OA KS

Places We Love: Ronin Farm & Restaurant The menus feature seasonal dishes from the farm

RONIN FARM & RESTAURANT DEFINITELY NEEDS TO BE ON YOUR MUST-TRY LIST THIS FALL. ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN PRICE

Less than two-hours from Houston, Ronin Farm & Restaurant is an excellent place to slow down and enjoy a bountiful harvest with great wine. Situated in downtown Bryan in an Ice House built in 1912, Amanda and Brian Light transformed the century-old building into a bustling restaurant. The Lights’ commitment to a genuine farm-to-table experience is evident, as most of the ingredients on the menu are sourced just 15 minutes down the road at the couple’s farm. What they cannot grow on their own land is obtained locally, upholding relationships with nearby farmers, ranchers, and fishermen. One of the biggest draws at Ronin Farm & Restaurant are the Full Moon Dinners. During the fall and spring months, guests come from all over to enjoy a nine-course meal inspired by the month’s harvest. Dinner is served in the forest at Ronin Farm, and afterwards guests can take a candlelit stroll into the herb garden for dessert. For those wanting an overnight stay, the Ronin Farm Guesthouse is a beautifully appointed house located adjacent to the farm. Nestled on 15 acres, it offers the perfect, tranquil getaway with an idyllic wrap-around porch, swings and enough room to spread out. ronintx.com

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Owners Amanda & Brian Light

Full Moon Dinner at Ronin Farm

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