HEALTH + WELLNESS THE KEYS TO HEALTH AND LONGEVITY APRIL 2026
FITNESS
HOUSTON’S HOTTEST PICKLEBALL SCENE
houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics
Nestled along a private cove with direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Estes Flats, the most acclaimed shallow water fishing grounds in coastal Texas, Marea is redefining coastal elegance with thoughtful land planning and elevated home design.
All within minutes from the downtown of charming Rockport.
A Well-Invested Invitation
There’s a spring in our step this time of year in Houston. The weather turns especially beautiful – it’s not too hot yet - and everything around us seems to be in bloom. It’s a season that simply feels good - energizing, hopeful, and full of possibility.
In this Spring issue of River Oaks Lifestyle, we’re exploring the idea of “investments.” Of course, that includes financial wisdom and building for the future. But for me, investment has taken on a broader meaning.
It’s how we care for our health and longevity.
It’s the time we make for movement, laughter, and connection.
It’s the trips we plan, the experiences we create, and the courage to lean into what’s next.
Inside these pages, you’ll find inspiration for all of it.
Our cover story features the breathtaking Aruba Marriott Resort - a destination that reminds us why meaningful experiences matter. We explore the vibrant world of pickleball, not just for its health benefits but for the community forming around the court. You’ll also discover the elegant Mokara Hotel & Spa, a beautiful place to reset and recharge, and enjoy a brief conversation with Tim Tebow in “Life Beyond Football,” where he shares how he’s investing his life in purpose and service.
Spring is a season of growth. My hope is that this issue encourages you to ask: Where can I invest more intentionally in my own life?
As always, I’d love your feedback. And be sure to follow us on Instagram @ riveroakslifestyle.
Jennifer Kahlden | jennifer.kahlden@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
INTERN
Antonio De la Rosa
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Allyson Straczek
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
inside the issue
Les Ondes Collection
Designed by Gilles & Boissier
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Alecia Harris, Gracie Cavnar at the Inprint Poets & Writers Ball. 2: Michael & Victoria Hohertz at the Inprint Poets & Writers Ball. 3: Dr. John Reiser, Gerry Popov at the San Luis Salute. 4: Lauren Rozas, Knights of Momus King Steven Conner, Isabel Resto at the San Luis Salute. 5: Christina & David McAllen at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Trailblazers Awards Luncheon. 6: Maddi West, Juliana Mafrige, Cinthya Read at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Trailblazers Awards Luncheon. 7: Sandy Gaw, Dr. Ruth Simmons at the Houston Public Library Robert Burns Supper.
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ UP IN THE AIR FILMS
JACOB POWER
DAVE ROSSMAN
JACOB POWER
JACOB POWER
8: President and CEO Michael Heckman and executive director Sonja Kostich at the Houston Ballet Ball. 9: Leigh Smith, Harper Watters, Phoebe Tudor at the Houston Ballet Ball held at Wortham Theater Center. 10: Houston Ballet company dancers enjoying the tunes at the Houston Ballet Ball. 11: Marti Grizzle, Kara McCullers at the Cotton Foundation Galentine’s charitable fundraiser at Maître D. 12: Alejandra Bravo Correa, Babarczy at the Cotton Foundation Giddy Up Galentine’s charitable fundraiser at Maître D. 13: Julien Benhamou, Khori Dastoor, Patrick Summers, Sasha Cooke at Houston Grand Opera’s Concert of Arias. 14: Ann & Jonathan Ayre at Houston Grand Opera’s Concert of Arias.
is Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month
Women are at a higher risk for Age-related Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, Dry Eye, Glaucoma, Refractive Error, and Thyroid Eye Disease. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and maintaining long-term eye health.
PRIORITIZE YOUR EYE HEALTH WITH REGULAR CHECKUPS. SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY.
www.todaysvisionriveroaks.com
Join us for unbeatable lunch and happy hour specials that turn any day into a celebration! Whether you’re taking a midday break or winding down after work, enjoy delicious dishes, refreshing drinks, and incredible deals that make every bite and sip even better. With flavorful favorites, and prices you’ll love, it’s the perfect spot to relax, connect, and treat yourself without breaking the budget. Your Happy Place!
business monthly
Chase and Nataline Oelkers Acquire The Tox Wellness Brand
Chase and Nataline Oelkers are the new owners of The Tox, opening a new chapter for the luxury wellness brand. After a year marked by personal loss, the couple wanted to build something meaningful and make a difference in other people’s lives. The Tox specializes in lymphatic and digestive sculpting treatments designed to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall vitality. Their vision centers on helping clients feel lighter, energized, and deeply connected to their bodies.
Baccarat Unveils Monumental Zénith Chandelier at River Oaks District
Baccarat unveils its monumental 84-light Zénith chandelier in Houston—an unprecedented installation for the city—ushering in a new chapter with the reveal of Zénith Nomade, the first portable expression of this iconic creation. The Zénith chandelier, an iconic Baccarat creation originating around 1850, is celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship, featuring twisted "bamboo" arms and beveled diamond-cut elements.
Houston’s Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Merch Drop is Here
FIFA has officially launched its exclusive Houston merchandise for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, and it’s now available online. As one of the 16 host cities and home to Houston (NRG) Stadium, which will welcome seven matches in the expanded 48-team tournament. This fresh drop spotlights the city’s role with a vibrant blue-and-gold color palette, bold “26 Houston” graphics, and designs that capture the energy of the world’s biggest sporting event coming to Space City.
Photography by Annette Boatwright
Photography Courtesy of Baccarat
Photography by FIFA Houston
Scenery CHANGE OF
The Aruba Marriott Resort stretches along Palm Beach with stunning views and plenty to do.
With its recent renovation, the resort represents an investment in comfort, design, and experience, giving travelers a thoughtful place to settle into island life.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY
COURTESY OF ARUBA MARRIOTT RESORT
There is a reason so many travelers return to Aruba year after year. Outside the hurricane belt, the trade winds are steady, the water is the perfect shade of blue, and the pace of life definitely switches to island time. For first-timers or longtime fans of the Caribbean island, one thing becomes clear very quickly. Having the right home base makes all the difference.
Mandara Spa offers updated saunas, steam rooms, and a tranquil courtyard with hot tub.
A FRESH TAKE ON ISLAND LIVING
The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, set along the powdery stretch of Palm Beach, recently completed a comprehensive renovation of all 414 guest rooms and suites. The update feels thoughtful, and instead of leaning into over-thetop tropical themes, the design takes on a calmer, elevated coastal look.
Everything from the carpets lining the hallways to the chandeliers in common spaces are worth noticing. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the stunning views while letting in the perfect amount of natural light. Many of the rooms have balconies where guests can relax a little longer with a coffee or cocktail in hand.
Bathrooms were redesigned with double vanities, backlit mirrors, and glass-enclosed showers with waterfall showerheads. Select rooms feature oversized soaking tubs, perfect after a long day in the sun.
MORE THAN JUST A BEACHFRONT
The beauty of staying at the Aruba Marriott Resort are the choices available to each guest. There is an adults-only pool lined with cabanas for those craving a peaceful setting and a lively family pool for guests traveling with children. For those looking for adventure, water sports are available along the beach, and in the evening, the Stellaris Casino is the place to be.
There are also many options for dining. With more than 10 restaurants on-site, guests can easily settle in and never leave. Atardi, the resort’s toesin-the-sand restaurant, pairs fresh seafood with sunset views. Poolside dining is always available, and Mercat provides all-day options from breakfast through dinner.
After full days of beachgoing or sightseeing, returning to the resort is easy. The refreshed Mandara Spa, the largest on the island, now features updated saunas and steam rooms and an outdoor courtyard with a hot tub and cold plunge.
Guests can snorkel offshore, lounge poolside, or explore the island’s colorful neighborhoods.
There are ten onsite restaurants for guests to choose from.
Aruba’s iconic Fofoti tree twists toward the sea, shaped by trade winds along Eagle Beach.
STEPPING OFF PROPERTY
As comfortable as the resort may be, Aruba is truly worth exploring. A stop at the Aruba Aloe Factory traces the history of aloe cultivation and production, dating back more than a century. It is a quick but worthwhile detour, and visitors shouldn't skip the gift shop stocked with all-natural products ready to take home. For an immersive experience, a guided walk with Aruba Mural Tours takes visitors into colorful neighborhoods where massive murals tell stories of the local community and their island pride. Knowledgeable tour guide Tito Bolivar adds rich character to what many travelers might initially see as simply a beach destination. For those looking for an underwater adventure, De Palm Tours' snorkel cruise showcases Aruba’s sea life, from coral formations to schools of tropical fish. Every level of snorkeler is welcome, and even first-timers find themselves staying in the water longer than expected.
Although Aruba doesn’t have a national cuisine, the island offers several great restaurants, including Azar Open Fire Cuisine and Liquid Chef GastroBar, where handcrafted cocktails are innovative and fun. Breakfast at Linda's Dutch Pancake House offers a delicious introduction to the island’s Dutch heritage, with plates piled high with fruit and powdered sugar, or savory toppings.
STRIKING A BALANCE
For many visitors, Aruba is all about balance. Days spent at the beachfront or poolside can move slowly, but there is always the opportunity to discover something new. With a thoughtfully updated stay to anchor the experience, the island becomes less of a quick getaway and more of a place travelers look forward to returning to.
Spacious suites feature wraparound balconies and expansive ocean views.
Let’s Pickle!
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
Pickleball has officially claimed its place in Houston’s social calendar. The fast growing sport blends tennis, badminton, and Ping-Pong into one addictive, easygoing game, and we can’t get enough. From casual beginners to competitive regulars, courts across the city are buzzing morning to night. Here is a guide to the best places to play pickleball in the Bayou City.
YOUR GUIDE TO HOUSTON’S HOTTEST PICKLEBALL COURTS AND HANGOUTS.
PICKLE MANIA | The first dedicated indoor pickleball destination in Downtown Houston features seven cutting-edge indoor courts designed for players of all skill levels. 411 Smith St. picklemanias.com
PKL SOCIAL | With four state-of-the-art pickleball courts and expansive covered patio spaces, PKL Social is also known for its great menu. 1112 Shepherd Dr. pklsocial.com
SOLARIUM | This midtown racket-sports-inspired lounge offers both indoor and outdoor fun. The outdoor venue features four pickleball and two padel courts. 820 Holman St. solariumhouston.com
BUMPY PICKLE | Houston’s first pickleball facility is still going strong with multiple courts, leagues, and tournaments. 554 Lockwood Dr. bumpypickle.com
DROP SHOTS HTX | Located at the Houston Farmers Market, Drop Shots offers six indoor courts and multiple amenities, including great food and drinks and family-friendly games. 2520 Airline Dr. dropshotshtx.com
PICKLEBALL SOCIAL | This pickleball destination is much more than its courts; it also offers multiple spacious areas with other games, as well as private and semi-private lessons. 1055 Conrad Sauer Dr. pickleballsocialtx.com
Courtside Bites & Cocktails
In Houston, it is not just about the score. Many pickleball venues double as fun hangouts, serving handcrafted cocktails, local craft beers, and elevated menus that go way beyond basic bar food. Chefdriven tacos, shareable charcuterie boards, fresh salads, and gourmet sliders are just some of the elevated options. Whether you are celebrating a win or laughing off a missed shot, the food and drinks make sticking around between matches part of the fun.
Photo by Becca Wright
Pickle Mania. Photo by Andrew Hemingway
PKL Social.
Photo by Becca Wright
Top pickleball gear boosts play: quality paddles, supportive shoes, durable equipment, and moisture-wicking apparel elevate every game.
Monday
Design Smart. Build Better. Live Exceptionally.
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CAESAR EVENT RENTALS
DESIGNED WITHOUT LIMITS
From weddings to corporate galas, each event receives tailored planning and precise execution from the team at Caesar Event Rentals.
CAESAR EVENT RENTALS BRINGS REFINED STYLE AND PRECISION TO HOUSTON’S MOST EXCLUSIVE GATHERINGS, OFFERING LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION, PRISTINE INVENTORY, AND SEAMLESS SERVICE FOR ANY EVENT.
Curated furnishings transform gatherings into refined, memorable experiences.
Since May 2023, Caesar Event Rentals has designed and produced sophisticated events in Houston. Whether the occasion is a corporate event or a small personal gathering, each affair receives white-glove service.
“Our team never says no,” explains Yuval Miller, CEO, Caesar Event Rentals, Houston. “We are here 24/7 to support every client and give them full peace of mind. There are no limitations to what we do for our customers. Whatever their vision is for the event, we make it our top priority because we love what we do.” From the front office to the event staff, the team responds quickly and thoughtfully to ensure each event feels seamless and special.
Whether it is a wedding, gala, corporate gathering, or private celebration, Caesar Event Rentals is equipped to handle events of any size, from small, intimate gatherings to groups of more than 5,000 people. “Unlike other companies, we do not have minimum spends on any occasion. Everyone should be able to have a gathering,” says Miller.
The team at Caesar Event Rentals handles everything from the quote to the cleanup. “All events are curated with precision and excellence,” explains Miller. “It’s important to work through a custom package for each client and then execute with flawless, on-time delivery, expert setup, and breakdown.”
Caesar Event Rentals takes particular pride in its curated furniture selection, offering clients pieces that elevate any event setting. New furniture is carefully maintained before and after each event. Care is taken to load and unload the furniture to keep it polished, clean, and unscratched. With a wide variety of furniture styles, customers can stay current on Houston’s latest styles as well as classic and elegant looks. Plus, with multiple locations across the country, there is no shortage of inventory to meet the customers’ needs.
In addition to furniture, Caesar Event Rentals provides tableware, linens, lighting, decor, and outdoor fixtures, including cabanas, tents, and couches. caesareventrentals.com
Caesar Event Rentals carries an extensive inventory of furniture, lighting, and decor which allows for complete customization for celebrations of any size.
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DESTINATION: MOKARA HOTEL & SPA
ARTICLE
BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MOKARA HOTEL & SPA
A REFINED RIVER WALK RETREAT BLENDING HERITAGE DESIGN, WELLNESS AMENITIES, AND ATTENTIVE SERVICE, OFFERING TRAVELERS AN ELEVATED STAY IN THE HEART OF SAN ANTONIO.
On the banks of the San Antonio River Walk, Mokara Hotel & Spa feels both connected to the buzzy sights and sounds, yet also peaceful. Step outside and you are in the middle of the city’s energy. Step back in, and the liveliness slows down just enough. For travelers who want comfort, luxury, and a location that makes exploring easy, Mokara delivers on all three.
The hotel’s recent renovation, completed last fall, brings a fresh outlook to a property that already raises the bar as San Antonio’s only Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel. Guest rooms and suites reflect the building’s history as a former saddle factory, with hand-stitched leather details, horsehair-inspired wallpaper, and handcrafted wood details. The palette is neutral, accented by alabaster and herringbone, creating a feeling of quiet sophistication.
Art was important to the renovation. Dallas-based artist Lindsey Meyer contributes abstract and impressionistic works that bring warmth and texture to each space. The rooms feel thoughtfully curated and personal, adding to the comfortable home-away-from-home feel.
Wellness is woven throughout the experience at Mokara. New freestanding bathtubs anchor the bathrooms, paired with updated vanities and fixtures. The hotel also features a signature Bathtub Butler program, available daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., which allows guests to have a bath drawn for them or to have special bath amenities, such as therapeutic crystals, added to their experience. It is a small detail that elevates a stay.
In addition to the recently renovated rooms, guests can still enjoy its award-winning spa, delicious dining, and warm hospitality. With historic landmarks and cultural attractions just steps away, it offers travelers the best of San Antonio while giving them a luxurious retreat to return to each night.
The comprehensive renovation at Mokara Hotel & Spa ushers in a new chapter of refined comfort along the River Walk.
“As we approached this renovation, it was important that we showcase the rich history of the original building, while elevating the luxurious experience we offer to our guests.” –Rusty Wallace, General Manager, Mokara Hotel & Spa.
Unlocking Health and Longevity
Advanced diagnostics and specialists create personalized plans to improve metabolism, recovery, disease prevention, and longevity.
Plais Medical is a Houston-based longevity and performance clinic that uses precision testing to extend patients’ health span and improve quality of life. Using a concierge-style approach, Plais Medical longevity specialists aim to extend patients’ health and lifespan through data-driven transformation.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Maurice Leibman, explains, “At our longevity and anti-aging clinic, we look beyond routine screening and traditional medicine and focus on proactive rather than reactive care. We believe aging is a biological process that can be slowed, and some aspects may even be stopped one day.”
At Plais, every treatment is personalized to each patient's biology. Personalized care manages an individual’s risk factors early in the course of an illness and can delay or prevent disease progression. They look for trend changes, early inflection points, and functional decline before diagnosis. “We are all different, we don’t all age at the same pace, we don’t all respond the same way to stress and trauma, and our organs all age at a different pace,” says Dr. Leibman.
Data-driven transformation is based on a core belief in diagnostics and individualization with the Plais 5M Strategy. The first step is to create a comprehensive view of a patient’s health through blood panels, genetic testing,
and lifetime analyses. Next, the Plais team will work directly with patients to set realistic, achievable health goals. Monitoring health indicators ensures the personalized program stays on track, even with adjustments to exercise or supplements. The fifth step is movement – deliberate, proactive actions toward a healthier lifestyle.
When getting started, it’s important for patients to understand their baseline health data.
“This data makes prevention personal and urgent. Aging becomes trackable, and not mysterious, and we can know which organs are aging faster– and which are resilient,” says Dr. Leibman.
Plais uses advanced technology to help patients make smarter, more proactive health decisions. “With advanced diagnostics, a client can see and understand what is happening in their body early on and can act before damage accumulates. Are you aging faster or slower than your peers? If so, which systems are driving this aging?
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PLAIS MEDICAL
Plais Medical uses VO2 max testing to measure cardiovascular longevity potential overall.
This information is important in longevity medicine, as inflammation (detected by biomarkers) is a common denominator across cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, osteoporosis, cancer, and frailty,” Dr. Leibman explains.
With all of this data at patients’ fingertips, the team at Plais Medical wants to continue to shift the focus from treating disease, which is reactive, to optimizing how the body reacts over time – a proactive approach. “Our focus is extending your health span, establishing how
well your body is functioning, and keeping it well for decades to come. Lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management, are at the core of a good health span,” says Dr. Leibman.
People considering long-term wellness learn that aging begins in the early 20s for both men and women, according to Dr. Leibman. “Stable glucose, low visceral fat, insulin sensitivity, and reduced insulin resistance are vital for metabolic and cognitive health. Patients can focus on exercise – especially strength training, walking, swimming, and a Mediterranean diet.”
For patients with glucose control issues, Plais recommends continuous glucose monitoring to understand how different foods affect blood glucose. Dr. Leibman advises that “long-term glucose stability appears to be essential for neuroprotection.”
A step everyone can take to improve quality of life and longevity is to prioritize consistent, high-quality sleep each night. According to Dr. Leibman, it is an essential part of the longevity algorithm. plais.ai
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MA
IF YOU EAT ONE THING
FAST-CASUAL LEBANESE SPOT CRAFT PITA REINVENTS CAESAR WRAPS WITH TOUM, SHAWARMA CHICKEN, AND ZA’ATAR CHIPS.
At Craft Pita, founder Rafael Nasr is dedicated to sharing his culture through food. The fast-casual Lebanese restaurant has two Houston locations: West University and near the Galleria. The menu features traditional dishes made with authentic ingredients, including hummus, tabbouleh, falafel, and manaeesh, and is designed to be accessible to diners new to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. When Caesar wraps began trending on social media, he created his own version and soon, the Toum Caesar Pita became a best-seller. craftpita.com
THE CHICKEN
Preparation for the wrap begins well before it is assembled. “We marinate our chicken in over 23 different ingredients like clove, allspice, garlic, and lemon juice to make our shawarma spice blend for over 24 hours,” he says. “Then we rotisserie the chicken in our French rotisserie oven, pick the chicken by hand, and cool it down specifically for this sandwich.” The process ensures the shawarma is ready to be layered into the pita.
THE SAUCE
One of the reasons the wrap has turned into a fan favorite is the toum Caesar dressing. “Toum is the literal translation for the Arabic word for garlic,” Nasr says. “It can reference an actual garlic bulb, but in the context of a shawarma sandwich, it is a garlicky paste or sauce.” The ingredients are simple: oil, garlic, ice, and salt. “The ice fluffs up the sauce.” He describes it as “sharp, zingy, and spicy,” adding kick to the classic Caesar base of anchovies and parmesan. “Our toum Caesar dressing gives a Lebanese twist with extra garlic to everyone’s favorite dressing.”
THE MIX-INS
Texture comes from housemade za’atar chips. Nasr explains, “We use leftover day-old bread, cut it into triangles, and spread za’atar and olive oil on them.” The bread is baked until crisp. Nasr adds, “These crunchy, zesty chips give our toum chicken Caesar wrap bold texture and flavor.” The sandwich also includes romaine lettuce, the classic Caesar choice.
THE PITA
The wrap is held together with thin, Lebanese pita sourced from Phoenicia Specialty Foods.
Craft Pita, Toum Caesar Pita
SMART CARE FOR LUXURY APPLIANCES
Uptown Appliance Repair, a local provider of reliable repair services for premium brands, recommends preventive maintenance to extend the life of household appliances.
HOW DOES ROUTINE APPLIANCE MAINTENANCE AVOID COSTLY BREAKDOWNS, UNEXPECTED DOWNTIME, AND EMERGENCY REPAIR SITUATIONS ?
Appliance repairs are unexpected, and obtaining qualified, same-day service can be challenging. Conducting annual or semiannual maintenance can save thousands of dollars in repair costs if a unit breaks down. Ensuring condenser coils are cleaned, dryer vents are free of obstructions, and dishwasher filters are maintained can help prevent additional work on the
condenser, dryer heating element, dishwasher motor, and drain pump. For refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, washers, and dryers, maintenance helps prevent the motor from overheating, reducing the risk of future repairs.
FOR HOMEOWNERS INVESTING IN HIGH-END OR SPECIALTY APPLIANCES, HOW DOES A LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE PROGRAM PROVIDE PEACE OF MIND?
An annual investment in maintenance can help ensure the full lifespan of appliances, which for most high-end models is more than 25 years. For example, having the condenser coils cleaned annually can prevent the need for a condenser replacement, which can cost thousands.
Annual, factory-trained maintenance safeguards high-end appliances, prevents costly failures, preserves warranties, ensures seamless performance, and maintains peace of mind.
ARTICLE BY ALLYSON STRACZEK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACOB POWER PHOTOGRAPHY
Uptown Appliance Repair owner, Bobby Fierro.
WHY IS WORKING WITH CERTIFIED SPECIALISTS AND GENUINE PARTS CRITICAL FOR PRESERVING THE PERFORMANCE AND WARRANTIES OF LUXURY APPLIANCES?
High-end appliances typically feature more advanced technology than standard models, so it's best to have someone knowledgeable about the specific model to service the unit. Additionally, each part works in harmony with the others. It's important to use genuine parts so they perform exactly as the manufacturer recommends, helping extend the appliance's lifespan.
WHAT KINDS OF SUBTLE ISSUES DO FACTORY-TRAINED TECHNICIANS IDENTIFY DURING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE?
In homes with pets, a dirty refrigerator condenser is a concern because of pet hair. To keep dishwashers working at their best, we recommend always rinsing dishes before loading the dishwasher to reduce buildup in the drain pump and filter. Washing machine filter lines should be cleaned or cleared regularly to prevent buildup. Dirty dryer vents are common with use, so they must be cleaned to prevent overheating of the dryer’s heating element. We recommend biannual maintenance of wine cellars to keep the unit working properly in Houston's heat and to prevent evaporator leaks.
WHAT SETS UPTOWN APPLIANCE REPAIR APART?
Upton Appliance Repair provides a comprehensive two-year parts-and-labor warranty. Our technicians are factory-trained, and customer satisfaction is our priority. No matter what, the customer is always right, and we will address any issues to ensure their satisfaction. Referrals are extremely important to us, and we want every person to leave feeling pleased with our services.
uptownappliancerepair.com
Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL
An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.
Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.
for the exclusive reveal and more with Tim Tebow unfiltered.
the first time ever, Tim shares the inspiration behind a project he’s been holding close to his heart.
Redefining MVP
FEATURING TIM TEBOW
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 1ST
Back to the Future, The Musical
Sarofim Hall | 7:30 PM
The hit 80's franchise is the latest movie sensation to receive a Broadway musical adaptation. The production follows Marty McFly and kooky scientist Doc Brown as they travel through space and time, finding themselves in a series of mishaps. Conceived by the film's original creators, this brand-new musical adaptation is directed by John Rando.
APRIL 7TH
Six The Musical
Sarofim Hall - Hobby Center | 7:30 PM
Move over Hamilton, there's a new soundtrack in town and it's just as infectious. Henry VIII's six wives are stepping out from the big man's shadow to take their turn in the spotlight in this epically good new musical! Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, SIX is a celebration of girl power - from the 16th Century to today.
APRIL 7TH
Blue Man Group
Jones Hall for the Performing Arts | 7:30 PM
Now a true phenomenon in the world of entertainment, the Blue Man Group has come a long way since their inception in the late '80s. The drums and bright paint remain, but the rest of the show has had several injections of technological trickery, current cultural references, and refreshed humor.
APRIL 22ND
Bruno Mars
NRG Stadium | 7:00 PM
The king of retro pop is bringing his 150-million-record-selling discography, including some of the most famous songs of all time, such as Uptown Funk, Locked Out of Heaven and That's What I Like, now with the new addition of his upcoming fifth studio album, The Romantic, which follows his 2021 collaborative album An Evening with Silk Sonic.
APRIL 24TH
Houston Grand Opera - The Barber of Seville
Brown Theater | 7:30 PM
Enjoy the madcap comedy The Barber of Seville, as the mischievous Count Almavira and his wily servant Figaro strive to woo beautiful Rosina right out from under the nose of her minder, Dr. Bartolo. With devious disguises and meddlesome mishaps, the fate of the heart of this young girl is one thrilling and hilarious ride
APRIL 28TH
The Mel Robbins Show
Smart Financial Center | 7:30 PM
This brand-new tour comes straight off the back of her book, which has topped every bestseller list imaginable, including The New York Times, Amazon, and Audible. The idea is simple: just two words can free you from the constraints of others. Now, hear how to do it live with the greatest inspirational speaker and life coach of our time, Mel Robbins.
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