The 05-25-24 Edition of The Heights Leader

By LISA MORALES

The Leader News Contributor

The fierce storm system that swept through the Heights last Thursday, unleashing havoc with winds reaching speeds of up to 100 mph, has officially been classified by the National Weather Service as a derecho, or straight-line windstorm. The violent storm gusts toppled massive trees, downed power lines, flipped high-voltage towers, and caused significant damage to homes, cars, and businesses in the area.

The storm’s fury left a trail of destruction that the community is still grappling with days later.

Heights resident Brittany Shattuck, who was traveling with her daughter on Hwy. 290 when the storm rolled through, witnessed the highway go black and transformers sparking.

“The sound was excruciating,” says Shattuck. “It sounded like a freight train, and the wind was so heavy that my car

By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com

May 16, 2024 won’t be a date that’ll escape anyone’s memory anytime soon. The Heights/GOOF area was one part of town that caught the brunt of the devastating derecho that plowed through Houston in the early evening hours that Thursday.

“We’re seeing the damage firsthand,” the Office of Council Member Abbie Kamin said in a social media post. “Many District C neighborhoods have been significantly impacted. There are countless downed lines and trees…”

By Friday morning, the landscape looked bleak. Over the following days, reports trickled in of 8 people dead, including a family man in the Heights who was reportedly killed by a live powerline while clearing storm debris.

Nearly a million people citywide were without power immediately

By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor

After a tumultuous period marked by closing its doors in a building it had owned and called home for 46 years, Andy’s Home Cafe is poised to make a triumphant return to the Houston Heights community. The beloved restaurant, which first opened its doors in 1977 at 1115 E. 11 St., closed its original location in August 2023 due in part to construction issues that blocked parking and the inability to use the back alley where deliveries were made and where their grease traps were routinely cleaned. Second generation proprietor, Thomas Morales, who had been helping operate the restaurant since

after the storm, and the residents of the Heights/GOOF areas were particularly hard-hit. Although thousands of linemen converged in Houston to lend a hand, many had to

wait well into the following week for power to be restored.

Closed for Derecho

Locally, many businesses were forced to stay closed due to property damage or lack of electricity over the weekend.

Most court cases were rescheduled, and jury duty was canceled in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Whitmire urged residents to stay home if possible, and steer clear of the downtown area, where winds up to 100 mph blew the windows out of skyscrapers and blanketed the streets with glass. Houston ISD and several other districts in the greater Houston area remained shuttered the day after the storm to make repairs.

Sinclair Elementary was one of the schools suffering the most damage and remained shuttered on

he was 16, has witnessed first-hand the many changes Andy’s has gone through over the years. His daughter, Monica, and wife, Maria, are now

part of the team that oversees the day-to-day operations of this Heights icon. The family’s decision to sell was not one they took lightly but ul-

By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com

When things are at their worst, our neighbors are at their best. From individuals who drove around the neighborhood with a chainsaw to dismantle the fallen trees for a stranger, to community organizations that issued the rallying cry and showed up. From churches that delivered nutritious and spiritual sustenance, to businesses who gave back to the community they serve. So many stepped up to lend a hand in the community’s recovery. This is just a small collection of folks we caught doing good. If you’d like to thank or recognize someone who stepped up after the storm, let us know in a Letter to the Editor, editor@theleadernews.com.

The morning after the storm, Heights resident Darren Tompkins recognized his neighbors’ needs to keep their phones charged during the widespread power outages. So he set up a charging station in his front yards for people to use.

• Council Member Kamin was able to coordinate Crowdsource Rescue to distribute hot meals for the residents at Heights Tower on W 19th St, a lowincome apartment building housing primarily disabled and elderly people. The building had no power for several days. Kamin called the conditions the occupants were left in “extremely concerning” and Mayor Whitmire heavily criticized the landlords for what he said amounted to abandonment.

timately the family saw the closing as an opportunity to rethink the restaurant’s offerings. Morales’ grandparents were the original owners of Andy’s and brought authentic flavors from Mexico to the Heights. Carne guisada, Columbian enchiladas, and menudo were customer favorites when the restaurant had hours that started at breakfast and ran into the late-night. To keep Andy’s afloat while searching for a new home, the family partnered with Rabbit’s Got The Gun, The Shiloh Club, and the Heights Drive Inn to maintain a presence in the culinary landscape of Houston through pop ups.

Photo

THE PEOPLE.

COMMUNITY REPORTS

WHAT: Volunteers are essential to Houston Food Bank’s operations and are needed now more than ever. Houston Food Bank is a resource for individuals and families in times of hardship and is called upon in times of disaster. We are currently supporting relief efforts across the Greater Houston area which was impacted by the recent derecho storm and tornadoes, and so additional helping hands to sort and pack product to deliver out into the community - including designated cooling centers - are needed! WHEN: Individuals – including kids – as well as groups are

welcome to volunteer, and registration can be done online for a shift(s): 8 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m., Monday to Saturday; 6-9 p.m., Monday to Friday; and 9 a.m.-noon Sundays. There is a significant need for volunteers during the 6-9 p.m. shifts. To register and see available timeslots, visit: houstonfood-

bank.org/volunteernow Activities include sorting and packing non-perishable foods and cleaning supplies; repacking dry food into family-sized bags; and packaging hot meals in our commercial kitchen.

WHERE: Houston Food Bank, 535 Portwall St. (77029) For the latest on Houston Food Bank’s weather recovery efforts, visit www.houstonfoodbank.org/severe-weather-updates/ For more information on Houston Food Bank, to get assistance or to make a donation, please visit www. HoustonFoodBank.org.

43rd Street, GOOF (Photo by John “Gusty” Gustafson)

Backyard on Chantilly Ln. (Photo by Erica Chavez)

9th St and Ashland (Photo by Cristina Espinosa Bedwell)

Near 25th and Nicholson (photo by Stephanie Shirley, The Leader)

The roof of a house hanging on the wires. E 8th near Columbia (Photo by Lisa Riley)

34th St at Brinkman (Photo by John “Gusty” Gustafson)

Ashland and 27th Street (Photo by Javier Rodriguez)

Fallen trees on the campus of All Saints Catholic Church on E 10th Street (Photo by Pastor Elias Lopez)

Around Allston Street/Houston Heights area (Photo by Stephanie Shirley, The Leader)

34th Street and Brinkman (Photo by John "Gusty" Gustafson)

16th and Courtland (Photo by Tera Starr)

Pinemont and Ella: “Well, we had a fence!” (Photo by Nicole Fowler)

Photo courtesy of Houston Food Bank

build disaster boxes in response to the derecho that struck Houston and the Greater Houston area on May 16, 2024.

Monday. May 20, along with 53 other HISD campuses.

Superintendent Mike Miles said the main building was mostly unscathed, but some of the portable classrooms behind it suffered significant damage. More than 40 trees were upturned, with many of them crashing into outbuildings.

After briefly re-opening, Heights High School, Hamilton Middle School, and Hogg Middle School were forced to close again due to a lack of air conditioning. Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles said there were some schools in the district where air conditioning units went on and off sporadically.

Assessing the Damage

On May 18, President Joe Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Texas that also aids with the severe storms that rolled through Harris and surrounding counties prior to the devastating derecho of May 16. The declaration makes federal aid available to supplement recovery efforts in the affected areas going back to April 26, 2024, when the relentless severe weather onslaught began.

Meanwhile, local officials worked feverishly to coordinate relief efforts, update the public continuously on social media, and begin the monumental cleanup task. On Wednesday, May 22, Houston Mayor John Whitmire petitioned city council to extend the local disaster declaration beyond the customary 7-day period. City Council Member Abbie Kamin’s office provided frequent and comprehensive updates on power restoration, recovery resources, and in-person visits to the hardest-hit areas.

Tales from the Street

The Houston SPCA reported the intake of nearly 100 wild animals by mid-morning Friday, mostly of baby birds who were shaken from their nests. Over the next few days, the situation at area animal shelters became dire, with an overwhelming influx in lost and stray animals, a subsequent shortage of food and supplies, housing issues due to a lack of electricity and storm damages, and halted adoptions.

In the Heights, Friends For Life Animal Shelter issued an urgent plea for foster parents to help house some of their animals, at least temporarily.

On 10th St, Pastor Elias Lopez at All Saints Catholic Church celebrated Mass by candlelight for around 15 parishioners Friday morning. The church buildings had suffered minimal damage, he said, but the campus was littered with downed trees.

“I’m hearing from many of my parishioners that their

Prior to Kamin taking charge, Restore Houston Church took the initiative to bring food to the 200+ residents of Heights Tower. Houston ISD volunteers provided thousands of families with emergency food support and cleaning supplies support through the district’s Sunrise Centers.

homes are damaged,” Lopez said. “Prayer in times of tragedy brings us closer together and allows healing and rebuilding to begin. May we pray for those who lost their lives in the storm, the first responders, the linemen trying to restore power to the city, and all the helpers.”

The Leader news contributor Stephanie Shirley, a longtime Heights resident, said the storm was terrifying.

“I’ve been here through a hurricane and two tropical storms, but never as scared as I was tonight,” she said.

As she surveyed the damage the following morning, she said: “It’s a little surreal. Everyone’s power is out, nobody went to work or school. Everybody is out walking the streets, filming the damage.”

Karbach Brewing’s Love Fest, originally scheduled for Sunday, May 19, was one of several postponed events to take place that weekend.

“While this storm has thrown us a curveball, we know our resilient city always perseveres and we will get through this together, Houston-strong,” the Karbach Brewing team wrote in a media statement. “We will be open soon to have a beer together and until then, stay safe and look out for one another.”

Fast Facts

• The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has issued an urgent warning about the dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning following the death of a Spring Branch man Saturday. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled.

• More than a dozen cityoperated cooling centers sprang up around the city as temperatures climbed from the 80s over the weekend into the 90s on Monday. In addition, numerous community associations opened their doors to area residents to get out of the heat and charge electronic devices.

Parts of downtown were temporarily closed. HPD, along with DPS and other law enforcement agencies, maintained closures for both storm-related cleanup and ongoing window replacement work.

An EF-1 tornado was confirmed in Cypress, northwest Harris County

As of Sunday, May 19, within only the first three days of recovery, the Houston Food Bank had distributed 283,629 pounds of food, including 71 pallets of disaster boxes, 86 pallets

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

- Fred Rogers

of water, and 33 pallets of produce, snacks and supplies.

• The Houston Health Department distributed 400 free portable air conditioners to area seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers of disabled children.

• CenterPoint Energy said more than 2,000 employees and 5,000 contractors were working in the region in the aftermath of the storm. Several high voltage towers were toppled, exacerbating the power outages.

• CenterPoint said at its peak, nearly a million people were without power. As of Tuesday afternoon, there were still about 120,000 residents without electricity citywide.

• First cost estimates are currently at more than $5 billion According to the city’s waste management department, approximately 1 million cubic yards of residential storm debris is estimated to have been generated from this unprecedented storm. Debris removal efforts are expected to last for 2–3 months.

It’ll be weeks, if not months, before the full impact of the derecho of May 16, 2024 is known.

Director of Houston Pets

Storm Recovery Resources

By the time this print edition of The Leader reaches you, you hopefully have your power back, cleanup is well underway, and your insurance has been contacted. In the event things aren’t going so well, here is where to turn!

Financial Assistance

FEMA Assistance - This weather event is a federally declared disaster. You can now apply for Federal Disaster Assistance with FEMA. This aid can help with temporary housing, home repairs, low-cost loans for uninsured property losses, and other programs designed to support recovery efforts. For more information, visit http://fema.gov/disaster/4781

SBA Loans - The US Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to residents in major disaster areas. You do not need to own a business to apply. Apply here: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/ disaster-assistance

IHP Assistance - Under the Individual and Households Program, FEMA may provide those eligible with financial and/or direct assistance to address housing-related needs. You can apply online, at https://www.disasterassistance. gov/ or by phone, by calling 1-800-621-3362.

Cleanup Help

Residents experiencing damage to their home from Thursday’s storm can contact the Southeast Texas Severe Storms Home Cleanup organization. This organization assists residents and connects them with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups, and faith communities. All services are free but not guaranteed due to overwhelming need. This hotline will remain open through Friday, May 31. If you cannot remove debris and “muck & gut” your property yourself request assistance via their hotline at 832-509-2977 or visit crisiscleanup.org for more information.

Cooling Centers

For the latest information on cooling centers, resource distributions, and for free transportation, call 311 (outside city limits, 713-837-0311) or visit https://www.houstonoem.org/pages/may-2024-wind-event

Debris Removal

Residents are reminded to separate debris into the six distinct categories illustrated on the storm debris regulations document: Garbage, Vegetative, Construction and Demolition, Appliances, Electronics, and Household Hazardous Waste. To aid in the coordination of collection efforts, residents of the impacted areas of the city are encouraged to report all debris removal needs to the 3-1-1 Call Center, visit Houstonsolidwaste.org, and download the HTX Collects mobile application.

Food & More

Heights Interfaith Ministries, himfoodpantry.org

Food and cleaning supplies: The Houston ISD Sunrise Center intake form is available here to support needs: https://bit.ly/44MWMGf Houston Food Bank, houstonfoodbank.org: If you need immediate food assistance, please click visit houstonfoodbank. org/find-help/find-food to find a nearby distribution partner. Please call each partner to verify hours of operation.

Storage Thirty-three U-Haul stores across Greater Houston are extending 30 days of free self-storage and U-Box portable storage container usage to residents impacted by last week’s devastating storms. Find a location near you at uhaul.com/ Locations

Legal Aid

Lone Star Legal Aid is here to support survivors of the recent severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding in Texas. The team is available to assist with various needs, including helping individuals secure the necessary proof of ownership to obtain FEMA assistance, and addressing other legal challenges that may arise during recovery. We are committed to providing the legal aid you need to rebuild and recover. Visit lonestarlegal.org/resources/disaster-relief for more information.

More Resources Visit houstonoem.org/pages/recover to learn more about what to do during the recovery process. Learn what to do ahead of, and in the aftermath, of a disaster at publichealth.harriscountytx.gov/DivisionsOffices/Divisions/Public-Health-Preparedness-ResponseDivision/Prepare-for-Emergencies

Alive!. “Additionally, we are providing essential resources such as pet food and supplies to families in need, helping them keep their beloved pets safe and comfortable during this challenging time. The support from our community is vital as we navigate this recovery together.”

Thirty-three U-Haul stores across Greater Houston are extending 30 days of free self-storage and U-Box portable storage container usage to residents impacted by last week’s storms. People seeking more details about the U-Haul disaster relief program or needing to arrange storage are asked to call U-Haul Co. of West Houston at 281-495-2303

started to levitate. We were so scared, we just started praying.” Suddenly, her car came to an abrupt stop. A van next to her flipped over, windows in a nearby building began to shatter, a port-a-potty landed a foot away from her car, and a metal highway sign flew by, barely missing her vehicle.

Attempts to call 9-1-1 did not go through initially, but Shattuck did finally connect and was told by 9-1-1 operators that she and her daughter were safe from electrical discharge due to their tires being made of rubber. Firefighters later arrived on the scene to cut seven wires off her car. These lines had stopped her car and, she believes, kept it from being swept away.

• “No Power? First responder or repair crew who needs a break? Come Cool Down at Woodland Park, 212 Parkview Street.” The Facebook post by Friends of Woodland Park read. The organization offered fast phone charging, WiFi, cool AC, pizza, drinks and snacks, and activities for all ages on Saturday and Sunday. They expressed their thanks to Houston Parks - HPARD , American Red Cross, and T-Mobile for being there for the community and opening the center. “We just brought food and love,” they said in a Facebook conversation with The Leader. God’s Pit Crew is a nonprofit, faith-based disaster response team of volunteers who wish to serve others. When disaster strikes, God’s Pit Crew is there to deliver hope, healing, and restoration to hurting people in times of disaster. Headquartered in Danville, Virginia, the group provides disaster response around the globe. Already in the area to assist with the flood emergency in north Harris and surrounding counties, the group immediately lent

its resources to Houston area residents when the May 16 derecho left a path of destruction in its wake.

• Common Bond Café and Bakery on 19th St distributed free bread and pastries to area residents on Saturday, simply to brighten people’s day.

Ives, President and CEO, YMCA of Greater Houston. “It is our job to serve the community to the best of our ability. We hope to continue being a resource to those in need, no matter the circumstance.”

Volunteers Needed Things are looking up as time passes, but some organizations still need all hands on deck – and then some.

• Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry -- himfoodpantry.org

Shattuck explains, “I think it was a blessing in disguise. Otherwise, we may have flown through the air.”

Businesses Impacted

Heights businesses White Oak Music Hall on N. Main, The Canary Bar in Garden Oaks, and Chloe Dao in the M-K-T Shopping Center experienced cosmetic damage and suffered power outage for several days, causing them to temporarily close. Central City Co-Op on the other hand, was dealing with no refrigeration due to power outages and sent out social media blasts urging customers to “Save The Veggies” and other perishables before they would have to be thrown away.

• The YMCA of Greater Houston welcomed Houstonians at any open YMCA locations across the city for relief during poststorm restoration efforts. Storm victims were invited to recharge their bodies, minds, and electronic devices, connect with neighbors, and take a hot shower. “Our goal of welcoming people to our centers is to provide relief to those in need of vital resources,” said Stephen

• Crowdsource Rescue –crowdsourcerescue.com City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods Disaster Recovery Team – roman. aguilar@houstontx.gov

• Houston Foodbank – houstonfoodbank.org

At Buchanan’s Native Plants, fallen trees caused damage to structures and power outages resulted in a temporary closure. And at Eureka Heights Brewery, the owners played hide-and-seek with the missing part of their roof. For those needing a place to cool off until their power is restored, the City of Houston designated Stude Park Community Center at 1031 Stude St. as a cooling center. YMCAs across Houston offered shower facilities and access to power to charge phones. For those needing help with tree removal or other storm-related tasks, Crowd Source Rescue is a non-profit that connects volunteers with people in need during a crisis. To request help, volunteer to help, or donate, visit their website at https://crowdsourcerescue.org STORM from P. 1 HELPERS, from P. 1

Houston Pets Alive!, once the wellbeing of their own shelter animals was ascertained, closely worked with their shelter partners, including BARC, to provide immediate care, assess damages, and develop a comprehensive response plan at large. “In the wake of this devastating storm, our first priority at Houston Pets Alive! is the safety and well-being of our animals and the community,” said Noelle Delgado, Executive

• Crisis Cleanup – crisiscleanup.org/register Houston Responds – houstonresponds.org Texas Congregation Disaster Readiness – txcdr. org/join-txcdr Houston Pets Alive! -houstonpetsalive.org or 832-263-1268

Judge Linda Hidalgo announced early Friday that it could be days and even weeks before power was fully restored throughout the area. Heights business owner Ellyse Espinoza of State Line Designs told The Leader earlier this week, “Our Heights Common Market will be closed until we can get electricity back up. We’re so grateful that we are okay, but with our business being our only source of income, we are a little nervous about what’s to come. We’re hoping to push sales to our website in hopes of recovering some sales with the physical shop closed until further notice.”

Photo courtesy of Friends of Woodland Park

Friends of Woodland Park volunteers hand out pizza and positive vibes on Saturday, May 18, 2024.

Photo courtesy of Sinclair Elementary PTO

An estimated 45 or so trees toppled at Sinclair Elementary.

THE TOPICS.

What’s the hurry, Cane?

THE KITCHEN – What do you do with chopped beef that has been sitting in a non-working refrigerator for four days? Can I donate molding mayonnaise and wilted lettuce to the Houston Food Bank? Like thousands of other folks in and around Houston, I am still trying to clean up the mess left by several baking days with no electricity. And all the while I am getting ready for sev eral uninvited guests like Alberto, Beryl and Chris and maybe even Rafael, Sara and William. Yes, hurricane season is about to begin, June 1, when the Red Cross tosses out the first doughnut. Hurricanes are one of the pleasures of living in the Houston region along with mosquitoes, smog and the Astros’ bullpen.

This year’s hurricane season could be one of the most active ever recorded, says a team of experts at Colorado State University. Two points: They always predict a record hurricane season, and why are the predictors at Colorado State University?

That’s a wide beach. Not to be outdone, there is a prediction of as many as 33 named storms possible from that other frontier of beach-

Lynn Ashby Columnist

dicting far more. What’s the difference between a tropical storm and a hurricane?

A tropical storm gets a name when its sustained winds reach 39 mph; it becomes a hurricane when its winds reach 74 mph. About those names. Before hurricane forecasters started naming storms, they would have to refer to them by saying something like, “There’s a storm 250 miles southeast of Galveston,” but then it would move, as storms tend to do, so the weather folks in Galveston would warn, “There’s a storm 100 miles southeast of Galveston.”

When they screamed, “The storm has hit gobble, gabble, help!” and silence, you would

know exactly where the storm was.

In 1953, the U.S. began using female names for hurricanes. By 1979, male and female names were being used. The names alternate between male and female. They are given in alphabetical order. There are no Q, U, X, Y or Z names because of the lack of usable names that begin with those letters. The name lists repeat every six years unless a storm is so severe that the World Meteorological Organization’s Hurricane Committee (WMO), which hatches these names, retires that name. So we won’t see another Karina, Ike or Harvey. Incidentally, there is no Stormy Daniels. In 2013, Houston U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee criticized WMO because there were no African-Americans names for storms and hurricanes. “All racial groups should be represented,” she complained. The Congresswoman suggested names such as Keisha, Jamal, and Deshawn. If we do have those 33 storms predicted and we only have 21 names, WMO has a lifeboat, to speak. They have a supplemental list of 21 names that will be used. This season we go from

Alberto to William. One name, Isaac, may cause confusion. The Great Galveston Storm of 1900 was the deadliest natural disaster in the nations’ history. It left up to 12,000 fatalities. The quartermaster of the U.S. Army reported back to Washington: “Galveston is destroyed beyond its ability to recover.”

Today many know about the disaster from a 2000 bestseller, Isaac’s Storm by Erik Larson, in which he tells the story of the storm featuring Isaac Cline, the chief meteorologist at the Galveston office of the U.S. Weather Bureau. Since hurricanes were not named, today a lot of folks refer to it as Isaac’s storm. The only (sort of) good thing that came out of the disaster was that the hurricane spooked potential investors, who turned to Houston instead.

You ask: “How about me?” First, look for tell-tale signs that a storm is approaching. This includes the absence of the weather report on local TV because the weather reporter has fled. See if there is a doughnut in your front yard. Be aware if the realtor who regularly shows houses in your neighborhood is getting out her glass-bottom

THE WEEKEND. Thrills around

What: Outdoor yoga by Union Studio Cost: Free Info: unionstudio.yoga/ classes-1

HUI LAU SHAN GRAND OPENING AT M-K-T

All ages

When: Saturday, May 25, 2-4 p.m. Where: 3402 N. Shepherd Dr. What: Bingo with prizes, gift cards and beer swag Cost: $1 for three cards Info: upsidepub.com FREE YOGA ON THE LAWN AT M-K-T

Who: Adults When: Saturday, May 25, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Where: 600 N. Shepherd Dr.

Who: All ages When: Saturday, May 25, noon-10 p.m. Where: 600 N. Shepherd Dr. What: Hong Gong dessert chain grand opening Cost: Free drink with the purchase of two menu items Info: themkt.com/eventdetails/hui-lau-shan-grandopening-2024-05-25-12-00

HOUSTON PLANT SWAP AT EUREKA HEIGHTS BREWERY Who: All ages When: Saturday, May 25,

noon-3 p.m.

Where: 941 W. 18th St.

What: Plants swap, raffles, vendor’s market

Cost: Free Info: eurekaheights.com/ event/plantitas-y-chelas/ ANDY ROO & BOUNCE HOUSE AT WAKEFIELD CROWBAR

Who: All ages + dog-friendly

When: Sunday, May 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: 954 Wakefield Dr.

What: Live music with Andy Roo, bounce house and brunch specials Cost: Free – brunch is a la carte Info: facebook.com/ events/149685171790498

ORIGIN STORIES 3 BY THE AXIOM QUARTET AT HOUSTON SAENGERBUND

Who: All ages

When: Sunday, May 26, 5-7 p.m.

Where: 1703 Heights Blvd.

What: String quartet concert – hosted and narrated by quartet members Cost: $35 general admission, free student ticket Info: axiomquartet.com/ events

HEIGHTS MERCANTILE FARMER’S MARKET

Who: Adults When: Sunday, May 26, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: 714 Yale St.

What: Rain or shine market featuring produce, meats, coffee and baked goods

boat. Check with the zoo. If the animals are lining up two-by-two, that’s a sign. As I have mentioned before, west Houston is protected from flooding by the Addicks and Barker dams, controlled by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. My old neighborhood, Running Rats Acres, was spared flooding by Hurricane Harvey, but then it was devastated when the Corps of Engineers, in order to prevent flooding, opened the floodgates and swamped vast parts of west Houston, including me. Check with the Army. If they are not stringing razor wire along the Rio, they may be opening the floodgates again.

Much depends on where you live. If you live in Kingwood, you are still drying out from the recent floods and are in no mood to consider a swimming pool in your den. Move to the Heights, named because they are 6 inches higher than the rest of Houston. Think you are safe from the loss of power because you live on the ninth floor of a condo and the building has its own generator? Think twice if the generator is in the basement. Incidentally, ERCOT assures us that

Cost: Free Info: heightsmercantile.com/ events

TAKING BACK SUNDAY AT WHITE OAK MUSIC HALL

Who: All ages

When: Sunday, May 26, 7 p.m.

Where: 2915 N. Main St.

What: Live music performance on the lawn with special guest Citizen Costs: $53 Info: whiteoakmusichall.

there will no power shortage if a hurricane hits Texas because its power plants are in excellent shape: the gerbil and its treadmill have passed inspection. Get a manual can opener because your electric model won’t work. Open your garage door because it, too, is opened by electric power, not that you are going anywhere. Batteries for your radio and flashlight which you can never find in the dark. Maybe you need a flashlight to find your flashlight. You may want to stay put to show your courage so the National Guard rescuers can risk their lives by dangling from a steel cable in the roaring rain to pull you off your roof. Just be glad it’s the National Guard and not the Corps of Engineers. Ashby is knee-deep at ashby2@comcast.net

Editor’s note: This column and its contents do not necessarily reflect the views of The Leader News, its staff, or its publisher. The Leader News welcomes opinion articles on matters of interest to Greater Heights residents at editor@theleadernews. com. Publication is at the discretion of the editor.

com/shows/tm-event/ taking-back-sunday

LET’S DANCE BACHATA &

Who: Adults When: Sunday, May 26, 6 p.m.

Where: 2020 Studewood St. What: Bachata & Salsa class for all levels Cost: $19.99

Info: salsaeddy.com/houstonheightsarea.html

Trees For Houston and Woodside Energy kicked off 2-year tree planting initiative

COMMUNITY REPORTS

Partnership launched with volunteer event at new Kinder Campus Trees For Houston, the region’s leading tree advocate, and Woodside Energy came together on May 14 to celebrate the launch of a two-year program to plant trees in areas in need throughout the greater Houston region. For the past 41 years, Trees For Houston has committed to plant, protect, and promote trees for a greener, more sustainable Houston greenscape. Now with the completion of the organization’s permanent home in Garden Oaks, this expansion allows Trees for Houston to meet the increased demand of local municipalities, non-profits, neighborhood groups, community partners and individuals.

Trees For Houston is teaming up with Woodside Energy for two-year programming that will include the planting and distribution of over 10,000 trees and seedlings in esplanades, local schools, and community parks in neighborhoods like Acres Homes, Alief/Westwood, Fort Bend Houston, Gulfton, Kashmere Gardens, Magnolia Park, Near Northside, Second Ward, Sunnyside and Third Ward.

“We’re proud to be part of the greater Houston community and welcome this opportunity to play an active role in making a difference to the local environment.” said Shiva McMahon, Executive Vice President of International Operations at Woodside Energy, “I look forward to seeing our Woodside team out in the community with Trees for Houston as we work together to plant and distribute thousands of trees and seedlings over the next two years.”

“Our mission is much broader than tree planting. We expand awareness of the critical role that trees play in our community and the environment,” said Barry Ward, Executive Director, Trees for Houston. “In addition, planting trees and reforestation can help to restore at-risk ecosystems and habitats, ultimately increasing the carbon sequestration capacity of forests, benefitting wildlife habitats, and improving overall human health and well-being.”

Photo by Tom Koenig

Trees For Houston and Woodside Energy kicked off a 2-year tree planting initiative with a volunteer event at the new Kinder Campus.

FRIENDS FOR LIFE

Pet of the Week

Spice

The Leader is excited to partner with local no-kill shelter Friends For Life to feature an adoptable pet every week. To view all adoptable animals, fill out an adoption application, show your support through donations or volunteering, or take a pet compatibility quiz to zero in on your very own best friend for life, please visit https://friends4life.org/.

Please note: Friends For Life is in need of donations -- either monetary or buying from their wish list -- to purchase pet food because many people are making use of their Pet Food Bank in the aftermath of the storm. Please visit friends4life. org/donate to make a contribution.

Photos courtesy of Friends For Life Spice

Meet Spice! Spice is still a puppy at heart. He loves to play with toys, tug-of-war and fetch! He’s also a super smart boy and very food motivated. He loves to train for treats and knows how to sit, auto-sit, and make eye contact. He’s working on his leash manners and knows to check in with you while walking on leash.

He’s great at meeting new people, they are just friends he hasn’t met yet! And he’s good with kids. He likes to meet other dogs and is working on his puppy social skills. Won’t you Spice up your life today? Learn more about Spice at friends4life.org/adoptable-pets/spice.

Stay Alert: Beware of disaster recovery scams

COMMUNITY REPORTS

When a natural emergency takes place, consumers should be on the lookout for scams including price-gouging, fly-bynight door-to-door contractors, and bogus charities. Here are some ways to avoid a scam: FEMA does not endorse commercial businesses, products or services.

• Ask Housing Inspectors claiming to represent FEMA to show their identification badge. Federal employees always wear an official government badge to identify themselves. Federal and local disaster workers do NOT solicit or accept money - don’t trust someone who asks for money.

• Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant and asks for large cash deposits.

• Use licensed or verified local contractors backed by reliable references.

For more tips and information, visit:https://www.fema. gov/press-release/20240215/disaster-survivors-bewarefraud-and-scams

FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline: 1-866-720-5721

Report Scams and Fraud: Bit.ly/DisasterScam

ANDY’S, from P. 1

Morales tells the Leader, “The pop ups were a great opportunity to introduce the younger crowd to our food. Some of them had never tasted our flavor profiles before, and we were grateful to make these connections who would then share their experience with their friends.”

Now, after months of anticipation, Andy’s is set to reclaim its rightful place in the community with a new location at 2121 North Main. The new Andy’s is shooting for a June opening pending city permits and requirements. The menu will be paired down in the beginning to essential classics and the restaurant will be open seven days a week.

When news broke on Facebook about the new location, the post received over 600 comments and 700+ shares. Comments such as “My mouth waters for your carne guisa

burritos. Hurry up and open! Congratulations on your new location” and “Love all the way from San Francisco! This was my favorite restaurant growing up in the Heights. Can’t wait to come support” flooded their feed.

Expressing her excitement about the restaurant’s return, Morales shared, “We are thrilled to once again be a part of the community that has given so much to us. We hope our presence will lead our customers to support other local businesses in this area of the Heights.”

The Morales family’s dedication to preserving Andy’s rich heritage while embracing new opportunities underscores their commitment to serving delicious cuisine and fostering community connections. Follow Andy’s pop ups, and watch their new location’s progress on their social media sites: Facebook @andysintheheights, Instagram @andyshomecafe

COMMUNITY REPORTS

Nonprofit Organization Adapts to Keep Animal Care Operations Running During Hot Temperatures

The Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center is in desperate need of the community’s help after the recent storm that knocked out power to the entire facility. For days, the wildlife team has been working long hours in the heat to ensure the safety, health and well-being of the dozens of animals in its care.

The staff has had to get creative to keep operations up and running. Right now, the hospital is conducting X-rays outside in the back of an administrator’s car. The organization is also working with just one generator to power

Houston Humane Society Wildlife in urgent need of donations

both the rehab fridge and the freezers. Unfortunately, the situation is even more difficult because two of the freezers are damaged. As a result, the wildlife center team is buying bags of ice daily to keep the produce fresh for the animals. Any donation, no matter how big or small, would make a huge difference in recovery efforts. Currently, there is an urgent need for 8 and 13-gallon-sized trash bags. The wildlife center is requesting digital gift cards from H-E-B, Chewy or Amazon. Please send the card to the email address tgallardo@houstonhumane.org.

For more information about the Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center and additional ways to donate, please visit www.houstonhumanewildlife. org.

Local emergency medicine physician opens Top Care Emergency Room in the Heights

COMMUNITY REPORTS

Local emergency medicine physician Dr. Abdulla Kudrath is the new owner of Top Care Emergency Room in the Heights at 1324 N. Shepherd Drive, Ste. 100. On Friday, May 10, a ribbon cutting ceremony with Dr. Kudrath and the Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce was held to celebrate this new beginning.

The 24-hour facility offers comprehensive emergency care services for adults and children, including advanced imaging and laboratory services, and an in-house pharmacy. With a medical staff offering over 20 years’ experience, Top Care Emergency Room offers prompt, comprehensive and compassionate care for every patient. The state-of-the-art emergency room also provides advanced diagnostics capabilities, and efficient coordination with nearby hospitals.

“The hardest part about emergency medical conditions is that sometimes they are not so obvious to patients and they delay seeking care. We're here 24/7 to assess and help any medical condition,” said Dr. Kudrath. “I want to help

Submitted photo

Maria, Thomas, and Monica Morales are excited to open Andy’s Home Cafe at its new location on N Main St in the near future.

Photo courtesy of Perme Photography

The Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates the opening of Top Care Emergency Room with a ribbon cutting.

Art Valet: Farmers market brings on the art vibe Saturday

Downtown Houston has been the hub of the city since its founding, with Market Square Park at the center of activity both then and now. There’s a big historical sign at the park that reads in part “Residents, farmers, peddlers, and Indians all crowded here daily with wagon loads of goods to trade.”

Fast forward nearly 200 years later and you’ll still find a farmers market at the park, and this Saturday, artists and makers will present their wares. More about the square below.

Late in 2023 Downtown Houston reintroduced the Market Square Park Farmers Market in partnership with Heights-based Central City Co-Op, Houston’s oldest, organic sustainable food co-op, at the newly beautified and improved Market Square Park located at 301 Milam Street.

The last market of the season is this Saturday, May 25, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. with plans to return in the fall, starting on September 7 and running through November 16.

To close out this spring season, Downtown Houston invited me to collaborate to introduce an artisan crafts and fine arts pop-up. You know I said yes, I’ve already got my wagon loaded!

On a visit in April I felt “right at home” talking to the vendors and listening to the musicians perform. There’s something at the Market Square Park Farmers Market for everyone – kids and dogs included, and now art lovers! - to enjoy and experience. This free outdoor event also has multiple food choices from savory to sweet.

The artists joining me Saturday will be located on Preston Street near the south entrance to Market Square Park. The art market represents a mix of fine art to ar-

Mitch cohen Art Columnist

artvalet@gmail.com

tisan craft including candles and soap will be represented by the artisans that are attending Saturday.

Central City Co-Op was founded in 1998 by a group of like-minded friends and is Houston’s oldest organic, sustainable food co-op. They call it a “Farmer-First” grocery and support local, organic growers and makers.

Central City has a storefront open to the public at 2515 Harvard St, Houston TX 77008 and is open Tuesday to Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday to Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn more at centralcityco-op.com.

Market Square, originally named Congress Square, was the original civic center of the new city of Houston, and for 100 years it served as a home to four City Halls as well as a bustling open-air produce and fish market. Houston Downtown Management District, Downtown Redevelopment Authority/TIRZ #3, and the City of Houston Parks and Recreation Department redeveloped Market Square Park in August 2010, after lending their ears to downtown residents, business, and property owners. With these stakeholders in mind, the park has been transformed into a destination for residents and visitors alike, while preserving the park’s historic and artistic roots. Until the invitation came to join Central City Co-op this Saturday, I was unaware of just how active Downtown Houston

is in recreating this hub of activity. If you can visit their booth this Saturday and be sure to visit their website for a full list of daily activities https://downtownhouston.org/. Personally, I’ve always felt connected to Market Square. When I was a pre-teen I researched and created a book style presentation for school about Houston’s early history. Market Square Park and the well known bar La Carafe were a big part. My Dad drove me to the historic sites I picked out and he insisted I see the inside

of La Carafe, Houston’s oldest bar and the original trading post from 1837, located at 813 Congress St. I posted links and additional information about the market this Saturday on my website also, at www.artvalet.com. Leave your wagons at home, there is ample street and garage parking around Market Square Park.

Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com

Families with Pride Celebration to kick off Pride Month at Discovery Green

COMMUNITY REPORTS

Council Member Kamin’s family-friendly event returns June 1 featuring fun for the whole family

Council Member Abbie Kamin is hosting the thirdannual Families with Pride citywide celebration in partnership with the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce. This year they are teaming up with Discovery Green for this free celebration of family and togetherness taking place Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Council Member Kamin is once again leading the

charge bringing together community partners for a celebration dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ children, families, and allies as part of Houston's Pride Month festivities. Attendees can expect a range of activities including live entertainment, hands-on art projects, Pride Storytime and the Houston Public Library's Curiosity Cruiser, food trucks, the local “Jolly Trolley” offering a mobile gym and playground, face painting, photo booth, yard games, an immersive History of Pride exhibit, the wonderful playgrounds and water features that Discovery Green has to of-

fer, and much more.

Residents are also invited to bring along their fur babies and join the Proud Puppy Pawty at 9 a.m. at the Discovery Green Dog Run— with prizes for the most cre-

Last week’s weather in Houston was intense, and I want to check in on everyone, especially our furry friends. I hope you and your pets are safe! With the sudden onset of the storms, I know some storm-phobic pets didn’t have time to prepare with medication. If your cats and dogs are still feeling anxious and stressed, it’s completely normal. The big, scary storms on both Thursday and Friday, along with the changes in their environment and disrupted routines, can take a toll. Be patient with yourself and your pets—they might still be hiding, reluctant to go for long walks, have a poor appetite, or be more reactive. If you've

Joanna WachoWiakFinlaison Pet Behavior Columnist info@highfiveanimaltraining.com

been working on your dog's reactivity, it might feel like you’ve taken some steps back. This is understandable. Take things slowly, revert to easier tasks in your training, and give everyone time to recover. You’ve got this! As we enter hurricane season, here are a few tips for pet parents to help you prepare for future storms: Check your fences. Ensure all your pets are chipped (and registered!) and wearing tags

ative pet costumes!

“Families with Pride was inspired by our district’s LGBTQIA+ families, they helped start this. They are Houston’s families. At a time when discrimination against

Pet Puzzle

with contact information before any weather event. Crate train your cat. Make sure their carrier is seen as THE safe space. Leave it out at all times so that in case of a scary event, they choose to go there, making evacuation easier if needed. Prepare with medication. Consult your veterinarian and have some anti-anxiety medication on hand if you know your dog or cat gets stressed by storms. Be ready. Stock up on your pets’ food and treats. If a big storm or a hurricane is on the radar, keep their crates, leashes and bedding handy. Don’t forget their medication, vaccination records, favorite treats and any comfort items!

Keep your pets cool. If your power goes out, remember that pets are at an increased risk of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, especially breeds with short noses. Offer icy water; give your dogs a cool shower; hop in a car with the AC on, and go for a drive around the neighborhood or visit an air-conditioned petfriendly store for some relief. Stay safe, and hopefully we can all return to our routines soon!

Joanna Wachowiak-Finlaison is the owner of High Five Animal Training and a certified dog and cat trainer as well as a behavior consultant based in the Heights. Please submit your pet behavior questions via email to info@ highfiveanimaltraining.com.

the LGBTQIA+ continues to rise, parents, children, and allies deserve a welcoming place created just for our kids,” said Council Member Kamin. “We’re excited to bring the festival back and are extremely grateful to all our community partners, sponsors, and the Mayor’s Office of Special Events-without them this event wouldn’t be possible. I also want to thank HPD, HFD, and public safety partners for ensuring this event is welcoming and safe for all.”

Community based organizations providing support for families in the community will also be on site.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with Council Member Abbie Kamin on Families with Pride,” said Tammi Wallace, Co-Founder, President & CEO of the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce. “This festival honors the beautiful families that are part of the tapestry of the LGBTQIA+ and Allied community. We appreciate Council Member Kamin’s commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space during Pride Month where all families are celebrated. Now, more than ever, these celebrations matter.”

Police investigate two unrelated pedestrian deaths at 4400 North Freeway

Houston police are investigating a fatal crash at 4400 North Freeway (North Interstate Highway 45) about 12:20 a.m. on Sunday, May 19. The identity of the deceased male, 41, is pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. HPD Vehicular Crimes Division officials reported that the man, a pedestrian, was in the right shoulder lane of the freeway at the above address when he was struck by a blue Toyota Corolla traveling northbound. A second vehicle, a white Ford Escape, attempted to avoid the male, but also struck him. Both drivers stopped and remained at the scene. Houston Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced the male deceased. The male drivers, 67, and 22, of both vehicles, who were determined not to be impaired, were questioned and released. Days earlier, at approximately 10:30 p.m. on May 16, just after the devastating derecho swept the area, another death occurred at the same location at 4400 North Freeway. According to HPD, the body of an adult female was observed to be lying in a main lane of the freeway at the same address. It is believed she was a pedestrian struck by an unknown vehicle. In this case, the driver left the scene without stopping to render aid. Anyone with information on the wanted vehicle or driver is urged to contact the HPD Hit and Run Unit at 713-247-4072 or speak anonymously with Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

Submitted photo

The Market Square Park Farmers Market against the city backdrop

Submitted photo

Akilah Scott-Amos of Kissed By A Bee

Submitted photo

Artist Arthur Deatly with patrons

Submitted photo

Jennifer Lang in her booth