HGO's Concert of Arias Celebrates Rising Stars, Offers Notes of Hope
Evan W. Black
WIDELY KNOWN FOR cultivating and championing young artists, the Houston Grand Opera on Friday hosted its 34th annual Concert of Arias, a vocal competition followed by a seated dinner and celebration of the winners.
Savvy, Sassy Sommelier Rachel Van Til Praises Houston’s ‘Curious and Excited’ Wine Set
Robin Sussman
“I WISH I came here sooner to experience this amazing city,” says advanced sommelier Rachel Van Til of her move to Houston just one year before the pandemic lockdown. When Covid appeared in 2020, along with layoffs and closings, it led to a career swerve for Van Til, a working mom who was a sommelier at Pappas Steakhouse. She took over the wine program at The Clubs at Houston Oaks, a posh (initiation fees can range into the six figures) members-only club northwest of the city with 10 lodges, 17 lakes, 900 acres and six dining options. Speaking of lots of good food and vino, the club’s 2022 Wine and Food Classic is this February 12 — it’s a great chance to taste hundreds of wines from around the world and learn about them from winemakers and professionals. “It’s our largest event of the year and it’s open to the public.” In our Q&A, Rachel dishes on her favorite date night, best wines to try this year and her brush with the me-too movement!
Don’t Wait for the Perfect Moment to Take a Risk and Grow! Success Often Happens in Tough Times
Peter Remington
IN THE MID-1930s, at the height of the Great Depression, there weren't many people with the foresight and courage to start up a new company. Yet the husband-and-wife team of Leo and Lillian Goodwin were up to the challenge.
