HOME ON THE RANGE

HOME ON THE RANGE

by | Oct 30, 2022 | Drive, 2022 November December

To cost a quarter of a million dollars, a vehicle must be pretty special. The new Range Rover SV Wheelbase Serenity ticks off all the luxury boxes, according to our automotive enthusiast expert, Michael Satterfield, of The Gentleman Racer.com.

Photography by Lucas Kepner

DESIROUS DRIVE

It is hard to think of a situation where anyone really needs a $250,000 luxury SUV, but like many things, the Range Rover SV Long Wheelbase Serenity isn’t built to satisfy a need. It is built to satisfy a desire. Considering that for the price of this one SV, you can buy two base Range Rovers and still have enough left over to pick up a BMW 2 Series convertible for the weekends, that desire must be quite strong.

 

We all know that everyone has a luxury SUV these days, Lexus, BMW, etc. You can even get a Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy with Napa leather, rear window sunshades, remote smart parking, and all the other bells and whistles for just a hair over $50,500. But the Range Rover strives to be more than just another SUV, and for a quarter of a million dollars, it must. Slotted firmly between the Bentley Bentayga V8 and the Rolls Royce Cullinan, the SV offers all the luxury and quality without the ostentatiousness.

While you can drive the SV, it is even better to be driven in it. The four-passenger SUV, when being used correctly, only seats three. At the push of a button, the front passenger seat slides forward and down as a footrest unfolds for the rear passenger. Simultaneously the back passenger side seat reclines. The push of another button reveals the table hidden in the center console, perfect for your road trip charcuterie. A large screen displays all manners of information from the Range Rover, or you can stream all forms of entertainment, all the while enjoying the noise-canceling headphones.

LUXE LIVING

After all that imported cheese and cured meat, you will be thirsty, so this is where the onboard champagne chiller comes in handy. Don’t worry…the cup holders are designed to accommodate the chilled champagne flutes as well. Handy, isn’t it? Riding in the back of a vehicle, even to the grocery store to pick up a few things, feels like you should be rounding the corner on Av. de Monte-Carlo about to stop at the casino where a white-gloved valet awaits to make sure you never face the indignity of opening your own door. This, of course, is how the SV is supposed to make you feel when you are in it, but since the Texas Riviera is not quite Monaco, I opted to take the SV for a drive through the wine country.

 

Washington County, the county seat of Brenham, is home to not just a developing wine industry but also one of the best new wineries in Texas, Chapelton Vineyards, which served as the perfect destination for our wine country road trip. Since Land Rover only authorized me to drive, my sidekick cameraman Lucas Kepner took full advantage of the luxury accommodations in the back. While this vehicle is designed for optimum passenger comfort, the SV is still a pleasure to drive. The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 produces over 520 horsepower and over 550 lb.–ft. of torque, all channeled through an 8-speed automatic transmission. That should get you there and back quickly enough.

While it can’t be described as exactly sporty, the vehicle’s handling is impressive, thanks to the active anti-roll stabilization system. And being a Range Rover, it, of course, has all-wheel-drive, Terrain Response, Hill Descent Control, and a bevy of other technologies that allow luxury to continue even when the road does not. Yet, on the highway or the wine country roads, what impresses me most is just how quiet it is inside.  Not a whisper from the wind, just the faintest sound from the tires as we make our way down the county roads. Range Rover really has managed to live up to the name, Serenity.

MODERN AESTHETIC

Pulling up into the winding driveway of Chapelton Vineyards, the Range Rover matches the property’s aesthetic. Modern, but somehow still traditional and familiar. As we leave the pavement and head out into the bounty of grapes, the Range Rover hardly notices since the suspension absorbs all the bumps and ruts like they aren’t even there. The tight corners around the vines are easily negotiated thanks to the four-wheel steering, and the advanced camera system lets you look at the vehicle from a perspective as if you were spotting yourself on a trail. Throw in all the additional sensors, and crashing the new Range Rover in a vineyard, or a parking lot would require real commitment.

 

As I sat on the back tailgate of the SV, the sun set over the vineyard. I can’t help but think, “I wish this had the optional Tailgate Event Suite with leather cushions.” It would have only been another $1,200, and if you are ordering one of these, tick all the boxes and include everything.  

 

This Range Rover did not give me the opportunity to really get out and test it as a vehicle. No, there was no sideways drifting through the mud, harrowing tests at the track, nor rock-crawling adventures. It is too special for those things, plus Range Rover saw my test of the Rolls-Royce and asked me not to take it to a bog. But it is a special vehicle, reserved for people who understand the value of understated elegance. If you are in the market for the finest luxury SUV ever made, this SV should be on your shortlist.

WHERE THE HEART IS

WHERE THE HEART IS

by | Oct 30, 2022 | R.S.V.P. DALLAS, 2022 November December, Parties

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Hosts Saint Valentine’s Day Luncheon And Fashion Show

By Cynthia Smoot Photography by Tamytha Cameron

THE SETTING: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS), with its 2022 St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon & Fashion Show, Make a Statement, welcomed more than 450 attendees to the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center for the 38th annual fundraiser. Artist Rolando Diaz entertained guests by creating an original work of art live onsite, which was then available for purchase in the silent auction.

THE STYLE: Mistress of ceremonies Lauren Przybyl, Fox 4’s Good Day Dallas anchor, led the program. Susie Barnett was then announced as the 2022 recipient of the Lynda Adleta Heart of Gold Award, given to a family or individual who is philanthropic in the community and has a “heart of gold” and a passion for LLS’ mission to help fight blood cancers. Dallas-native and renowned fashion designer Lela Rose was recognized with the 2022 ICON Award. The legendary Tom Landry was announced as the recipient of the 2022 Memorial Hero Award, which recognizes an individual in the community who has passed away and battled blood cancer. The Spirit of Tom Landry Character Award, given to a youth between 5–20 years old, who has battled blood cancer, was awarded to Amelia Dammen. She was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in 2021. The much-anticipated fashion show, produced by the inimitable Jan Strimple, featured models wearing this season’s fashions from Highland Park Village retailers.

THE PURPOSE: The luncheon’s chair was Lisa Loy Laughlin, and more than $570,000 was raised to support LLS’ mission of eradicating blood cancers. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is a global leader in the fight against cancer. The LLS’ mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research worldwide, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.

SPORTY SOJOURN

SPORTY SOJOURN

by | Oct 30, 2022 | 2022 November December, Feature Three

Here in the Lone Star State, we often live by a mantra, Everything is Bigger in Texas. Yet, as our alpine adventurer Ashley Dobson discovers, there can be tremendous beauty and exploration when we start to think small…such as in Europe’s Liechtenstein.

Photography courtesy of Shutterstock

Less than one hundred miles from Zurich, Switzerland, lies a fairytale land with authentic European flair. The gorgeous alpine nation of Liechtenstein is the sixth smallest country in the world, covering just 62 square miles. This gorgeous, rich, alpine country is comparable in physical size to McKinney and in population—with just 37,000 citizens­—to Texarkana. Although one can drive the entire country in less time than it takes to commute to work during rush hour in a major Texas city, this in no way indicates that Liechtenstein has a shortage of unique offerings to explore. This hidden gem of a nation is jam-packed with options for the perfect winter getaway. We couldn’t resist, so off we went to explore this sublime land.

 

Officially an independent royal principality, Liechtenstein is one of Europe’s most unique destinations. Notable not only for its tiny size, it is also one of only two countries in the world that is double landlocked. Both of its bordering countries—Austria to the north and east and Switzerland to the south and west—are also landlocked. But what may have been a strategic disadvantage in the warring days of old makes it an ideal current travel destination to enjoy cultural delights, rich history, and alpine recreation.

 

MAGNIFICENT MOUNTAINS

If you have ever wanted to cruise over fresh powder in one of the most stunning landscapes in the world, this is the place for you. The lifts and the ski facilities at Malbun are relatively new and conveniently located, but the spirit of this ski area seems to be frozen in time. While most other slope locations worldwide focus on package deals and seem to have never-ending lines for the lifts, Malbun is all about the snow and taking in the beauty of the mountain on your ride down.

 

Liechtenstein may not be at the top of your list when you think about skiing, particularly if you typically run black diamonds. But as you reach the top and gaze out at the picturesque views of snow-covered mountains in three countries–Liechtenstein, Austria, and Switzerland–any trace of doubt will quickly fade as it did with me. This winter wonderland has more to offer than just skiing. Nearly every town in Liechtenstein sets up its own outdoor ice-skating rink during the winter. Skating with the Alps behind you and the snow softly falling, looks like a scene straight out of a snow globe sitting on your desk.  

 

Malbun also offers tobogganing down pre-carved runs for those with children or for adults who want to enjoy some childlike fun. Designated winter hiking trails in the Alps allow visitors to this enchanting area to wind between snow walls, fir trees, and snow hollows. Truly intrepid adventurers also can take the opportunity to ride through the Alps in husky dog-drawn sleds and experience the wintry magic in a truly unique way.

 

RETREAT LIKE ROYALTY

If your style is more history buff than snow bunny, or if you want to add a touch of royalty to your après-ski, you’ll want to take the 20-minute drive down the mountain from Malbun to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein.

 

As you drive into town, the castle on the mountain will immediately draw your eye. With a large round tower made of stone on one side, this medieval-style castle overlooking the Rhine Valley gives Vaduz an idyllic setting. Originally built as a fortress in the 1200s, it was burned down by troops of the Swiss Confederation in the Swabian Wars of 1499. The castle was completely renovated in the 19th century for Liechtenstein’s royal family, who still reside there today. Therefore, the castle is not open to the public, but you can climb a well-marked footpath to see its stunning exterior.

 

Prince Hans Adam II, Europe’s richest monarch, is Liechtenstein’s current ruler. He is the son of the late Franz Josef II, who died in 1989 after a more than 50-year reign. Franz Josef II was a beloved ruler who famously secured his country’s neutrality during World War II, despite not having an army.

 

Prince Hans has one of the world’s most impressive private art collections. His collection includes more than 1,700 paintings and 500 sculptures, which, in total, spans more than 500 years of European history. Though the majority of this collection is on display at the Liechtenstein Museum in Vienna, Austria, the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein features a few selections from the royal collection as well.

 

The Kunstmuseum is the country’s largest museum, and it serves as the national art collection of Liechtenstein. Even the building itself stands as an architectural work of art. Designed as a commanding black box made of tinted concrete and black basalt stone, it has river pebbles embedded in its walls to reflect its gorgeous Alpine surroundings. And with pieces by Gauguin, Bertrand Lavier, and Picasso inside this impressive exterior, this museum is not to be missed. We were dazzled by the array of beauty within its walls.

 

ALWAYS IN GOOD SPIRITS

In Liechtenstein’s capital, you don’t only get to think like royalty you also get to drink like the Prince and his family. Head to the Prince of Liechtenstein’s enchanting 10-acre Herawingert vineyard and visit his Hofkellerei for a wine tasting. Ironclad doors lead to a cellar where a wine steward serves a selection of Vaduzer wines and a few of the Prince’s favorite Austrian Rieslings.

 

But Liechtenstein is not just a producer of fine royal wines–if you prefer brews to barrels, Liechtensteiner Brauhaus might offer something more to your liking. Liechtenstein has only been making craft wheat beers since 2007, but this young producer has already won awards all over Europe. You’ll want to try a flight of beers, as we did, everywhere you go.

 

Local spirits unique to Liechtenstein abound, too, and none is more famous than the world-renowned Telser. The oldest producer of fine spirits in Liechtenstein, Telser is primarily known for making whiskey and gin. The distillery famously never ceased production during the two World Wars, but sales slowed during the 1990s. The fourth generation Telser traveled to Scotland to learn how to make Scotch whiskey as a way to save his family’s distillery. Now it’s one of the distillery’s most beloved products.

 

After a spirited tour of Liechtenstein’s libations, there is no better way to follow up a day of tastings than with a hearty bowl of warm Käseknöpfle, a pasta-like dish with melted cheese that is one of Liechtenstein’s delicacies.

 

So, the next time you plan a European getaway, put Liechtenstein on your map. You only need a few days to cover the entire country, but its chic offerings may convince you to extend your winter vacation just a little longer.

THE FRAUD FACTOR

THE FRAUD FACTOR

by | Oct 30, 2022 | Empower, 2022 November December

How can we overcome feeling as if we don’t deserve what we have achieved, especially as we take stock of ourselves over this last year? It’s a common thought process, according to our expert life coach and author Angie McCourt, as she shares insight from her book, Love Your Gifts: Permission to Revolutionize Authenticity in the Workplace.

HOW TO OVERCOME FEELING LIKE A FRAUD                                                                                                     

Do you ever feel you don’t deserve your achievements? After a success, do you dismiss it as just good luck or timing? Do you apologize for yourself even if you didn’t do anything wrong? Do you think others overvalue your success? Do you toss away simple compliments or acknowledgments? There are many underlying components to feel like this and it’s often referred to as Imposter Syndrome.

 

True imposter feelings involve self-doubt, uncertainty about your talents and abilities, and a sense of unworthiness that doesn’t align with what others think about you despite your education, experience, and accomplishments. In addition to a crippling self-belief that you don’t deserve your success or that you couldn’t replicate it, you are also unable to internalize positive achievements.

 

To counter these feelings, you might work harder and hold yourself to even higher standards. This pressure can eventually take a toll on your emotional well-being and performance. Imposter feelings represent a conflict between your self-perception and how others perceive you.

 

Here’s how imposter syndrome might show up in your day. 1. You’ve been working in a certain role for a couple of months, yet when people call you by your formal title, you feel like a fraud because you haven’t mastered that position. 2. You’ve started your own business, board role, or in a new job. However, you don’t like to promote yourself because you don’t have the same level of experience or expertise as others in your field, making you feel like a fraud. 3. You’ve been nominated for an award, but feel like an imposter at the recognition ceremony because you don’t feel that your achievements are good enough to warrant the nomination.

 

IMPOSTER FOSTER  

Imposter Syndrome has a lot of adverse effects, including not asking for help, burnout, turning down new opportunities, avoiding feedback or criticism (no matter how well-intended or constructive), and even anxiety, depression, and guilt. There are five types of imposter syndrome that can help distill how it shows up:

  • The Perfectionist believes that unless they are absolutely perfect, they could have done better. They believe they’re not as good as others might think they are. This can show up in parenting as well.
  • The Expert believes they need to know everything there is to know about a particular subject or topic, or they haven’t mastered every step in order to become an expert.
  • The Natural Genius feels like a fraud simply because they don’t believe they are naturally intelligent or competent, especially if they don’t get something right the first time or it takes longer to master a skill. This can also pop up for athletes who have natural talent.
  • The Soloist believes that if they had to ask for help to reach a certain level or status and couldn’t get there on their own, then their competence or abilities is questioned and diminished.
  • The Superhero believes that they must be the hardest worker or reach the highest levels of
  • achievement possible and, if they don’t, they are a fraud. This is a common one in parenting as well.

 

IMPOSTER SYNDROME RELIEF

  • Acknowledge and share your feelings with others. This disempowers irrational core beliefs.

Focus on connecting with and helping others. Especially if they are struggling with imposter syndrome. When negative feelings surface one of the best things is to become ‘other human’ focused.

  • Assess your abilities. Reflect on your accomplishments over time. What were your contributions, lessons, and skills learned?
  • Question your thoughts. Challenge their truth. How can they be true given everything you know and have experienced?
  • Stop comparing. Use social media sparingly. Show support for others instead of judging yourself.
  • Focus on what you are grateful for. If negative thoughts pop up, stop, and think about or write down five things you are grateful for at that moment.
  • Say “Thank You” when someone offers a compliment or congratulates you on an achievement—even the simplest acknowledgment matters. Don’t blow it off.

 

You can get ahead of it. Consider any time you have change in your life, such as starting something new, imposter syndrome might rear its ugly head. Refuse to be held back. No matter how much you feel like you are a fraud or that you don’t belong, don’t let that stop you from pursuing your goals. You are valid, you are worthy, you are valued, and you deserve your successes. Keep going and refuse to be stopped.

ANIMAL PLANET

ANIMAL PLANET

by | Oct 30, 2022 | R.S.V.P. HOUSTON, 2022 November December, Parties

Houston PetSet Raises Record $1.1 Million

By Jennifer Roosth Photography by Priscilla Dickson

THE SETTING: More than 700 animal lovers packed the Post Oak Hotel ballroom to see Cole Hauser and Forrie Smith, stars of Showtime T.V. favorite, Yellowstone. However, the animals were the true winners of the 18th annual Fierce and Fabulous Soirée.  Houstonians came out in full force for a fierce and fabulous charitable evening of cocktails, dinner, luxury auction items, and a rocking after party. They opened their hearts and wallets to make this year’s event a resounding, fierce and fabulous success.

 

THE STYLE: Mistress of Ceremonies Deborah Duncan provided the audience with much laughter and banter from the podium. Sidney Faust was applauded for all her hard work and charitable generosity to the community. There were plenty of one-of-a-kind auction experiences. For one example, tennis great John McEnroe hosted guests at his seats at Wimbledon, for the women’s and men’s finals, which included an invitation for an after party at his house. Then there was the Cole Hauser experience for an afternoon horse ride in Montana, DeBoulle generously donated a Rolex timepiece for the raffle, and I-Touch donated a beautiful ruby and diamond ring.

 

PURPOSE: Leading the helm of this sold-out event were chairpersons Tena Lundquist Faust, Tama Lundquist, and Sue Smith. The event raised an unprecedented amount of $1.1 million for the animals. Houston PetSet is a non-profit organization providing grants to over 70 Houston area charities that benefit animal welfare and are committed to spaying, neutering, rescuing, adopting, and transporting the homeless pet population.  

THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

by | Oct 30, 2022 | 2022 November December, Evolve

With the holidays upon us, it’s a time of both reflection and forward thinking. Our Etiquette Guy, Jay Remer, is always on hand to steer social conundrums in the correct direction with cheers for a festive season that we can all enjoy together.  

Dear Etiquette Guy,

Since it’s the holidays, can you please refresh my memory of gratuities for household staff and extended support team members like doorkeepers, residential building valets, etc.?

                                                                                                                              Giving Generously

Dear GG,

During the holidays, it is customary to give cash gifts to people who have served us in some capacity during the year. In part, deciding how much to give depends on your relationship with the person and your feelings and ability to be generous. A rule of thumb for household staff is one week’s salary–more if you wish. For others, $100 popping out of an envelope brings a smile to most faces. Many people in the service industry depend on gratuities to make ends meet. If you enjoy a festive holiday meal at a restaurant, I recommend a minimum 20% gratuity. Some patrons use this opportunity over the holidays to be considerably more generous. This generosity is very much appreciated and, in many cases, means the difference between them having a joyous holiday or not. I encourage people to be as generous as possible during these challenging times. The gratitude you will invoke makes the holidays a more delightful time of year.

 

Dear Etiquette Guy,

Do you think I must attend my office holiday party this year? The pandemic is still in our midst, and I already interact with most of these people daily through Zoom or in-person meetings.

                                                                                                                                        Party Pooper

Dear Pooped Out,

You do not need to attend your office holiday party–or any other party. The choice is yours, and if you think otherwise, you have given too much power to others, and you’re not protecting your boundaries. Sometimes we feel like being social, and sometimes we don’t. It’s a personal choice, not one that others should judge or comment upon. This doesn’t stop you from sending cards or exchanging gifts with co-workers on your holiday list. Spread joy and engage with others, but always on your terms.

 

Dear Etiquette Guy,

Is there a polite way to check if someone has received a gift I sent by mail after not hearing from them within ten days?

                                                                                                                                         Postal Santa

Dear Santa’s Helper,

Politeness is often a state of mind. If you inquire as a factual matter, you can tell the person that you have mailed a parcel and want to be sure it has arrived safely. No one should ever seek to solicit a thank you, but this form of questioning creates a shared responsibility with the postal service. They are not perfect, so the question is legitimate. I try to always get a tracking number in case the parcel was misdirected.

 

Dear Etiquette Guy,

Do I always have to contribute to an event or gift at work when I know I won’t be in town that day to partake?

                                                                                                                                           Gift Giving

Dear Gifter,

I am not a fan of pressuring people into participating in voluntary activities. You need not feel any responsibility to contribute if you don’t want to. No guilt trips allowed. People who push others are skating on thin ice–we must respect other people’s choices and boundaries. So, no, you don’t have to, but people will most likely appreciate it if you do. You can be present in spirit if not in person, but the choice is always yours.