In the early morning hours of Thursday, Aug. 15, Wakefield Crowbar, a popular sports bar in the Oak Forest neighborhood, fell victim to a calculated burglary that left the owners reeling from the loss. Pedro Garcia, one of the five minority owners of the establishment, described the incident as a “direct blow right to the gut,” coming on the heels of several challenging months.
The break-in occurred around 5:30 a.m. when a silver Mercedes pulled into the parking lot of the bar, located at 954 Wakefield Dr. Surveillance footage revealed two individuals who exited the vehicle, jumped over the outdoor railing, and began working on the door. After struggling to open it, they resorted to breaking a glass panel in the door. Once inside, the burglars moved with deliberate caution, low-crawling straight toward the business office in an apparent attempt to avoid detection.
“They really took their time,” Garcia said. “They went as slow as possible trying to dodge the motion sensors.” The burglars then spent approximately 15 minutes in the office, where they managed to break into the safe with a blowtorch, grinder, or similar tool, and made off with about $4,000 in cash.
Garcia said, “It’s like they broke into the Federal Reserve instead of a neighborhood bar.”
For Garcia and his team, the timing of the break-in could not have been worse.
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
Wabash Feed & Garden, a wellknown and beloved institution in the Heights with a rich history dating back to 1906, recently hosted a unique and highly successful event that combined fitness, fun, and furry friends. The goat yoga class, held at Wabash’s location on North Shepherd Drive, attracted a full house of eager participants, with the first session selling out so quickly that a second class was added to accommodate the demand.
The event was led by Wabash employee and yoga instructor Heidi Lehto, while fellow employee Debbie Girtman, who raises animals, provided the goats for the session. Together,
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
technology resources to more than 14,000 small businesses nationwide. The initiative,
focused on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, aims to support the growth of local businesses and the economic vitality of their communities. Businesses eligible for the award must be locally owned, have been in business for three or
Lehto and Girtman created a familyfriendly atmosphere that resonated with both seasoned yogis and newcomers to the practice. Participants were treated to an experience that was as entertaining as it was beneficial to their physical and mental well-being.
Goat yoga, which has grown in popularity nationwide, involves practicing yoga in the presence of playful goats that interact with participants, adding an element of joy and spontaneity to the traditional workout. The goats, with their natural curiosity and friendly demeanor, provided plenty of smiles and laughter, making the session a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Trucking LLC - 2220 Pinegate Dr. #433 77008 Star Sailor (Restaurant/Food Service) - 1710 W 18th St. 77008 Chez Bren Hair Care and Barber Shop - 5317 Elysian St. 77009 • Elation Physical Therapy (Health and Wellness) - 734 North Loop 77009
• Tepatitlan (Restaurant/Food Service) - 4720 N Main 77009
• Supreme Sandwiches (Restaurant/Food Service)2752 W.T.C. Jester Blvd. 77018 These businesses will receive a range
“It’s been brutal since the derecho,” Garcia said, referencing the severe storm that left the bar without power for six days earlier this year. “We lost all our food when we were without power from the derecho. We cooked all the food and gave it away to the neighborhood because everyone was out of power. Instead of letting it go to waste, we decided to get some warm food into people’s stomachs.”
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
In a remarkable milestone, the Oaks Dads’ Club (ODC) is getting ready to celebrate its 70th anniversary, marking seven decades of fostering community engagement and youth development through sports. Founded in 1954 by a group of ten dedicated fathers, ODC has grown from a small baseball club into a thriving organization that now supports thousands of young athletes across multiple sports.
Colin Dodd, Vice President of the ODC Board, shared his thoughts on the club’s journey and its lasting impact on the community.
“The Oaks Dads’ Club started as a simple boys’ baseball league, but over the years, we’ve expanded our programs to include softball, t-ball, soccer, and football,” he said. “Today, we serve approximately 2,500 youth registrants annually across three campuses by ODC and manage four additional fields leased from Harris County.”
From its humble beginnings at TC Jester Park with just two fields, ODC has grown significantly. The organization now operates multiple facilities, including the Candlelight property on Rena Street and the parks on Judiway and Main, all of which have been essential in accommodating the growing number of participants.
“We’ve worked hard to upgrade and maintain these parks, ensuring they are premier facilities for our youth to enjoy,” Dodd said.
of support services, including business consultation, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, creative production for marketing, a media schedule, and a technology makeover. The grants are designed to provide the necessary tools and resources to help these businesses thrive and continue serving Heights/GOOF communities. Perhaps most importantly, the grant packages come at the heel of severe weather in the Houston area, with the recent derecho and Hurricane Beryl wreak-
Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital receives national recognition for excellence in stroke care
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital has been nationally recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality stroke care, earning the prestigious Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus award from the American Heart Association (AHA). This award is part of a larger achievement by Memorial Hermann Health System, where 10 of its greater Houston area hospitals, including Memorial Hermann Greater Heights, were honored for their dedication to offering the most appropriate, research-based treatment for
BURGLARY, from P. 1
Just as the bar was beginning to recover, Hurricane Beryl struck, leaving Wakefield Crowbar without power for another three to four days. “We had to get a new roof after the hurricane,” Garcia said. “Since the storm in May, we’ve probably spent about $100,000, and we’re not even done. The fence is still leaning. We’re still working on it, still dealing with insurance claims, and this is yet another hit.”
Despite the challenges, the owners of Wakefield Crowbar remain determined to push forward. The bar, which has been a community staple since 2013 (under current
stroke patients.
Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a major contributor to disability in the United States. The Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke program aims to improve patient outcomes by promoting adherence to the latest research and evidence-based guidelines in stroke care. The Gold Plus designation signifies that Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital has consistently met or exceeded these guidelines, helping to save lives and reduce the long-term effects of stroke.
Sandi Shaw, Memorial Hermann’s System Stroke Program Director, emphasized the significance of the
ownership since 2018), is not asking for donations but is instead encouraging patrons to show their support by visiting. “We’re asking for support right now, one beer at a time,” Garcia said. “Just come out, have a beverage, and give us a little of your business.” Garcia expressed frustration over the nature of the crime, noting that the burglars appeared to be fairly welloff. “What drives me nuts is you look at these guys and they’re wearing nice clothes. They drive up in a Mercedes. It doesn’t seem like these guys need to be doing this. It’s ridiculous.”
The Houston Police Department’s Burglary & Theft Division is currently investi-
recognition:
“For one hospital to achieve an American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines Stroke Quality award is great. However, for 10 hospitals within the same organization to be simultaneously recognized with AHA’s high levels of quality stroke care is truly outstanding. These awards exemplify Memorial Hermann’s commitment to providing stroke patients with the most appropriate treatment. From the moment patients with stroke symptoms arrive at our hospital emergency rooms, teams of specialized clinicians work quickly to care for them because every second counts
gating the incident. Garcia and his team are offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to charges against the perpetrators.
“We’re hoping someone knows who this is,” Garcia said. “They made a straight beeline for the office. We’re looking around to see if it could have been an inside job, but we haven’t found anything so far.”
Anyone with information about the burglary is urged to contact the HPD Burglary & Theft Division at 713-3080900 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-8477.
For more information about Wakefield Crowbar, including menus and events, visit wakefieldcrowbar.com.
when you’re working to save millions of brain cells.”
In addition to the Gold Plus award, Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital also received the Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite recognition. This award acknowledges the hospital's success in reducing the time between an eligible patient’s arrival and treatment with thrombolytic therapy, a critical factor in improving stroke outcomes.
The Memorial Hermann Health System's achievements reflect its broader commitment to stroke care excellence.
The hospital's adherence to AHA and American Stroke Association (ASA) guidelines ensures that patients receive
Wabash Feed & Garden, known for its deep roots in the community and commitment to preserving the values and traditions of a bygone era, has always been more than just a feed store. With a location that now includes expanded product lines, a vast selection of gardening solutions, livestock feed, and rustic décor, Wabash has become an oasis in Houston’s urban wilderness. It’s the only place in the city where visitors can find holistic pet treatments, natural pet foods, bird feeders, vegetable and native plants, and farm poultry all under one roof.
The goat yoga event is part of Wabash’s ongoing effort to engage with the community through unique and fun activities. Past events in August included a social media gift card raffle and a plumeria sale. Looking ahead, Wabash plans to host more goat yoga sessions, along with a Fall Family Day that will feature crafts for kids and a variety of other activities. More details on that soon.
With the success of the recent goat yoga class, Wabash
the best possible care, which can significantly reduce the impact of a stroke and improve recovery times.
Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital is one of several campuses within the system to be honored for its stroke care. The recognition underscores the hospital's role as a leader in the community, providing advanced medical care and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Also receiving various national recognitions for stroke care were:
Memorial Hermann Cypress Hospital Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital • Memorial Hermann
Feed & Garden has proven once again that it’s more than just a feed store—it’s a hub of activity and a cherished part of the Heights community. Keep an eye out for future goat yoga and other events
us your story of interest news@theleadernews.com
Surveillance photos courtesy of Wakefield Crowbar
@wabashfeed, and don’t miss the chance to experience the charm and warmth that Wabash has to offer by visiting their location at 4537 N. Shepherd Dr. For more information, visit wabashfeed.
Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital
Wabash employees provided the yoga instruction and the goats.
CenterPoint Energy to launch series of community open house events across Houston, Heights on Aug. 24
COMMUNITY REPORTS
CenterPoint Energy will hold a total of 16 community open house events across Houston and surrounding areas over the next few weeks. The open house events, which will be held in every county across Greater Houston, are designed to elicit customer feedback concerning the company's response to Hurricane Beryl, as well as to provide a forum to communicate the specific actions CenterPoint is taking to improve future storm response as part of its Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative.
“We have heard the calls for change, and we are taking action now,” said CenterPoint President and CEO Jason Wells. “As part of our commitment to improving, we are encouraging all of our customers to share their ex-
periences during Hurricane Beryl, as well as their ideas for how we can do better.”
OPEN HOUSE FORMAT & STRUCTURE
At the open house events, customers will be invited to share feedback and ask questions of CenterPoint team members and leaders, visit a number of informational stations, and learn about and discuss the over 40 actions the company is taking to improve public communications, as well as strengthen system resiliency and community and emergency partnerships.
Open house attendees will also have opportunities to demo CenterPoint's new Outage Tracker and sign up for the Power Alert Service to stay better informed about outages before, during and after a storm. Along with CenterPoint subject matter
experts, local organizations will also be on hand to help customers to prepare for storms and create personalized emergency plans.
SCHEDULE & LOCATION
The most convenient meeting for residents of the Heights/GOOF area will be held as follows:
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 24, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
WHERE: Metropolitan Multi-Service Center, 1475 W. Gray St.
Customers can view the schedule for future open houses by visiting www. CenterPointEnergy.com/ OpenHouses.
ABOUT THE GREATER HOUSTON RESILIENCY INITIATIVE
Since launching on August 5, more than 2,500 CenterPoint frontline workers and contractors have togeth-
er taken a series of targeted actions to strengthen the grid and reduce the risk of outages before the next major storm. These actions include:
• Installing stronger and more storm-resilient poles: CenterPoint is replacing approximately 1,000 wooden poles by August 31 with stronger fiberglass poles that can withstand winds up to 132 MPH.
Trimming or removing vegetation from our lines: CenterPoint has doubled its vegetation management workforce in order to remove higherrisk vegetation near power lines by August 31.
Installing automated devices: CenterPoint will install approximately 300 automated devices, known as trip savers. These devices mean that fewer customers experience out-
ages, and quicker restoration times for those who do. The devices automatically re-energize the line in certain outages to help keep the power on for customers. Progress on these efforts is available on CenterPoint's social channels and online at
HAR local data by zip code: Hurricane Beryl disrupts housing market in July
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The Greater Houston real estate market was significantly impacted by Hurricane Beryl which left more than 2.2 million households without power for days. While the storm delayed some closings, increased sales activity in the high end of the market contributed to overall singlefamily home sales growth in July. According to the Houston Association of Realtors’ (HAR) July 2024 Market Update, single-family home sales across the Greater Houston area rose 1.8 percent year-over-year. The Houston Multiple Listing Service (MLS) recorded sales of 7,635 units compared to 7,501 last July. Months supply of homes expanded from 3.1 to 4.3.
High-end market sales outpaced last July’s figures. The luxury segment ($1 million+), which represents 4.5 percent of all homes on the market, experienced a 14.2 percent increase in sales. That was followed by the segment that consisted of homes priced between $500,000 and $1 million, which rose 9.1 percent year-over-year. Sales of homes priced between $250,000 and $500,000, which makes up
ing havoc on homes and businesses alike.
Marin Slanina, the owner of Star Sailor on W 18th St., said the eatery had to close for six days following the derecho. In Hurricane Beryl, the business flooded. But, Star Sailor had power, so they pulled together for a massive, around-the-clock cleanup effort, and then re-opened their doors as a place of refuge for the community.
“We have worked very hard to create a safe space to welcome all, and we cater to all walks of life,” Slanina said. “In the short term, this program will help us keep a roof over our head and our employees paid. But in the big picture, we’re almost there. We’re ready for the next level, and Comcast RISE will help us get there.”
Jessica Wilt, executive director of Central City Co-Op, also expressed her gratitude for the grant during a challenging time.
more than half of all homes on the market, were statistically flat. All other housing segments continued to see a slowdown in sales.
The average price of a single-family home climbed 4.7 percent to an all-time high of $445,440, topping the previous record in May 2024 when it was $441,641. The median price increased 2.9 percent year-over-year to $350,000.
“Despite the temporary setbacks caused by Hurricane Beryl, we expect to see transactions catch back up next month,” said HAR Chair Thomas Mouton with Century 21 Exclusive Properties. “Recent declines in mortgage rates have also given consumers a bit of renewed optimism, with some previously hesitant buyers now showing increased interest in buying a home.”
JULY MONTHLY MARKET COMPARISONHOUSTON
July marked the third consecutive month where total property sales declined, with sales down 2.1 percent yearover-year. Total dollar volume rose 4.4 percent to $3.8 billion. Active listings, or the total number of available properties, increased with 30.5 percent
shared the significant impact the grant will have on her business.
“I am so honored that State Line was selected as a Comcast RISE grant recipient. After 10 years of business, mainly online and doing pop-up events, I opened my brick-and-mortar early this year in the Heights. I was thrilled to be a part of the local community; however, our shop and community have been affected by both the derecho and Hurricane Beryl,” Espinoza said. “After the storm, it has been difficult to keep our doors open due to the city recovering and rebuilding their homes and properties, our home included. Tees and gifts are just not essential at the moment, which has financially and emotionally affected our business. This grant will be a game changer for this last quarter, and we are so excited to receive business coaching, educational resources, and a monetary grant that will help our business grow.”
more listings for sale compared to July 2023.
Single-Family Homes
Update - Houston
Despite the impacts from Hurricane Beryl, single-family home sales rebounded in July. Sales increased 1.8 percent year-over-year with a total of 7,635 units sold across the Greater Houston area compared to 7,501 last July. The average price rose 4.7 percent to $445,440, topping the previous record of $441,641 set in May of this year. The median price climbed 2.9 percent to $350,000.
Active listings were 34.2 percent above 2023 levels, with 29,642 single-family homes available in July. Days on Market, or the actual time it took to sell a home, was up
from 42 to 44 days.
Months of inventory of single-family homes expanded from a 3.1-months supply last July to 4.3 months.
Housing inventory nationally stands at a 4.1-months supply, according to the latest report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR). A 4.0- to 6.0-months supply is generally considered a “balanced market” in which neither buyer nor seller has an advantage. Broken out by housing segment, July sales performed as follows:
HAR also breaks out sales figures for existing singlefamily homes. In July, existing home sales totaled 5,610, which is down 1.6 percent compared to the same time last year. The average price rose 8.4 percent to a record high of $459,296, and the median sales price was up 5.2 percent to an all-time high of $352,625.
Houston Real Estate Highlights in July Single-family home sales rose 1.8 percent year-overyear; Days on Market (DOM) for
single-family homes went from 42 to 44 days;
• Total property sales
creased 4.4
to $3.8 billion; The single-family median price increased 2.9 percent to $350,000; The single-family average price rose 4.7 percent to a record high of $445,440; Single-family home months of inventory registered a 4.3-months supply, up from 3.1 months last July; • Townhome/condominium sales continued to decline, falling 19.5 percent, with the median price up 0.7 percent to $221,500 and
“The Central City Co-Op is honored to have been selected as a recipient for the Comcast RISE grant. The last few months of storms and power outages have been extremely challenging for a fresh, local food business like ours. Navigating those obstacles has not been easy and receiving this grant now is especially meaningful,” Wilt said. “Small business is truly the backbone of a vibrant community and this program helps to ensure that businesses like ours have the mentoring and support to thrive. We look forward to the opportunity to work with the Comcast team to strengthen our business and the dozens of farms, ranches, and small purveyors that we support.” Ellyse Espinoza, owner of State Line Designs, also
Dr. Roy Rivera, Jr., CEO and president of Elation Physical Therapy, expressed his appreciation for the support via the Comcast RISE grant package as well:
“The Comcast RISE grant award is a significant boost to our business operations, particularly in light of the economic impact we’ve faced due to Hurricane Beryl,” he said. “This grant enables us to strengthen our infrastructure, ensuring that we can continue to provide high-quality care to our community even during adverse conditions. Additionally, it supports our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and innovation in physical therapy, helping us to rebuild and expand our services to meet the diverse needs of our patients.”
Loren Hudson, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity
Officer of Connectivity and Platforms at Comcast, emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses, saying, “By empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners with the skills and resources they need to grow and succeed, we help ensure our local neighborhoods can flourish and thrive too.”
Originally launched in November 2020 to assist small businesses struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Comcast RISE has evolved into a broader initiative aimed at driving economic growth and supporting local communities. The grant packages include business coaching sessions, access to educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, professional creative production and media services, and a technology makeover that includes internet, voice, and cybersecurity services.
The Heights-area businesses that received the grants reflect the diversity and entrepreneurial spirit of the neighborhood, ranging from retail and restaurants to health and wellness services. The support COMCAST RISE, from P.
Photo by Stefanie Thomas Bucket trucks staging in a Houston parking lot on July 17, 2024, following widespread and long-lasting power outages caused by Hurricane Beryl.
Photo
Photo by Lisa Morales
Central City Co-Op on Harvard Street, managed by Executive Director Jessica Wilt, is Houston’s only
food co-op. Wilt is grateful for the support of a Comcast RISE grant package she received to help recoup the losses from the derecho and Hurricane Beryl earlier this year.
Submitted photo
Ellyse Espinoza recently celebrated the launch of her brick-and-mortar pop-up store in the Houston Heights. Severe weather in recent months, however, meant a financial setback for hers and many other businesses in the community.
Source: Houston Association of Realtors’ Multiple Listing Service
Localized data by zip code for July 2024
By DAN GREER
The Leader Food Critic
As Yogi Berra would say, it was “Déjà vu all over again”. Walking into Coco’s Donut and Coffee Bar took me back to the 70s when I would eagerly stroll through these doors into one of the only Tex-Mex choices in the area at the time…Monterrey House. Whether with my family for a rare evening of eating out, or during the school day at Waltrip Sr. High (during, ahem, approved times between classes, of course), it was always a treat to dine there.
But times are a-changin’ and the place has moved on to new and exciting things. In an homage to old times, the owners of Coco’s decided to keep the original, and still beautiful, Mexican tile in the front entry. But that is where any similarity ends. They did a terrific job of remodeling. It is very warm and inviting with soft, calming background music, oversized Edison lights, and comfortable chairs. There’s a nice mix of high school and college students, young parents and some “seasoned” adults. Orders are placed at the counter, where you can make what may be your most dif-
ficult decision of the day… which one of these mouthwatering delights to choose. So I went with the most obvious selection that required the least amount of thought on my part. The bacon, egg and cheese bites. But that wasn’t near enough, so I kept pointing. “Yes one of those. Oh, and I’ve got try that thing. What’s that back there!.” All of the young employees are super polite, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. And it turns out they are
pretty good salespeople, too, since I ordered roughly half of everything in sight. So back to those bacon bites. They are one-bite wonders and taste exactly like you imagine they would, with just the slightest jalapeno kick. I popped the first one in my mouth and decided I needed to conserve the remaining bites by dividing them into more dainty 3-bite bites. Accompanying these little marvels was a horchataglazed donut. It was delicate,
had a fantastic flavor, and paired perfectly. In those frenetic moments in front of the pastry case I also pointed to, and apparently ordered, a pastry that put me over the advisable caloric intake for the day and possibly week; a lemon-glazed and filled thing-a-ma-jig. I’m fairly certain that is not its actual name, but I bet if you described it that way, they would find it for you. And you should make them find it for you. Not to be lost in this food
Trees For Houston expands education efforts: Plant the right trees in the right place
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Oak Forest based nonprofit Trees For Houston (TFH) recently announced that thanks to a grant from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation, it is able to expand education efforts to help Houstonians and CenterPoint Energy customers learn about the importance of native species and proper care for their trees while encouraging planting the right tree in the right place to help prevent storm damage and power outages. This $200,000 grant is the largest comprehensive con-
tribution to date to TFH.
“In the wake of Beryl, it is more important than ever that homeowners become educated about trees in and around urban infrastructure. Planting the right type of tree in the right location while following a reasonable maintenance schedule for your trees is a crucial component of protecting our trees and our homes,” said Trees For Houston’s executive director, Barry Ward. “Educating the public is less a luxury than an essential component in maintaining compatibility between trees and power lines.” Funding will help Trees
Frost invites small business owners to mix and mingle with community partners
WHAT:
& mingle. The event will be a comeand-go mixer that will allow small business owners to network with other businesses and have one-on-one conversations with Frost bankers and community partners who provide helpful resources to businesses. Drinks and light bites will be included. Small Talk is part of Frost’s ongoing efforts to help the small business community thrive. Events like this are a tradition at Frost, where dedication to the community and making people’s lives better has been part of the culture since the company began in 1868.
WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 27, 6-8 p.m.
WHO:
• Tim Jeffcoat, retired district director of The Small Business Administration, Board Member of SURE CDFI, Chair of CDFI
• Frost - Insurance, Merchant Services, SBA Specialist Houston Community College
This event is free and open to all small business owners in the region.
For Houston boost education programs, projects, and resources to help educate the community on not only the importance of planting native species and their maintenance but also to expand on CenterPoint’s Right Tree, Right Place program, which aims to guide consumers on how to plant trees that are safe from power lines to help reduce the number of outages caused by tree interference – especially after severe weather events.
For 18 years, Trees For Houston, the region’s leading non-profit dedicated to urban tree planting and edu-
cating the next generation on the importance of green space, has partnered with CenterPoint Energy. They’ve been instrumental in helping TFH preserve Houston's urban canopy. Their contributions and collaborations, from our CenterPoint Right Tree, Right Place Tree Nursery to the Energy Saving Trees Program, further demonstrate their commitment to tree education and preservation. Their encouragement for our communities to engage in sustainable practices has made a significant impact on the community.
ordering frenzy was a tasty Mallorca loaf. It is a Latino sweet bread which is swirled like a cinnamon roll, but without all the sugary frosting or cinnamon. Oh, and I could write a separate column on their cinnamon roll.
My dining partner had a bacon, egg and cheese croissant that was very tasty. They have equally good sweet and savory choices. Their bakers are up and working in the wee hours of the morning. I can’t wait to come back and try their lunch items. Thank goodness they have steaming hot coffee that perfectly balances out the sugar high I was now experiencing. Today, their drip coffee was from Columbian beans. They rotate different beans from around the world and all are freshly ground, and you can taste that freshness in every sip.
Coco’s is owned by the Torres family (husband and wife team, Robert and Sylvia) and it is not the only local venture they are involved with, as I am told they also own the iconic Delmar Bowling lanes and the building that once housed Tradewinds Skating Rink. Don’t be surprised if soon you once again will have the opportunity to relive some happy (or awkward in my case), “Couples Skates” at this former local institution. It’s rare that the exact restaurant you’ve been hoping for comes to your neighborhood. Coco’s isn’t your average coffee shop/bakery. It fills a need here in Garden Oaks/Oak Forest. It offers great food and is hosted by great folks. A place where you eat well, feel welcome, and leave happier than when you arrived.
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Early Bird Tickets on sale now for Texas’ premier food & wine festival
Chefs For Farmers, Texas’ premier food and wine festival, returns to Houston for its third year! This two-day culinary festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29, from 1–5 p.m. at Autry Park at Shepherd and Allen Parkway.
The all-inclusive tasting event celebrates local top chefs and culinary personalities, who will serve curated, locally sourced dishes, promoting and showcasing family farms across Texas. Festival-goers will also enjoy a variety of activities, including immersive experiences, live entertainment, wines from top vineyards, and craft cocktails. In addition, attendees can shop for custom hats and jewelry, get their hair braided, or learn to line dance, ensuring a fun-filled weekend for all.
This year, Chefs For Farmers promises to be bigger
and better than ever, with the city's best chefs bringing their A-game. Each day will feature different chefs and themes, offering unlimited bites and cocktails, a bit of shopping, and a few surprises. At the end of each day, organizers will announce the winner of the Best Bite, voted on by attendees.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 28:
STREET FOOD SATURDAY
Saturday’s event will focus on street food from Houston’s top chefs, combined with music, culture, and community. Participating chefs include Bobby Matos (Little Rey), Kirthan Shernoy & Kripa Shenoy (Auden), Cory Nguyen (Crawfish & Noodles), Cristina Benitez (Cafe Piquet), and Victoria Elizondo (Cochinita & Co.), with many more to be announced soon.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER
29: THE MAIN EVENT PRESENTED BY STELLA ARTOIS®
Sunday’s event will feature an all-star lineup of
Houston’s most prominent chefs, including Quy Hoang, Robin Wong & Arash Kharat (Blood Bros BBQ), Evelyn Garcia & Henry Lu (Jun), Chase Voelz (Bludorn), Luis Robledo (Mayahuel), Christine Ha (The Blind Goat), Tim Reading (Leo’s River Oaks), Yotam Dolev (Hamsa), Travis McShane & Ray Melendi (Ostia), Luis Machuca (Liberty Kitchen), Drake Leonards (Eunice), Marcos Juarez (Hidden Omakase), and Ed Nguyen (Potente) plus more to be announced in the coming weeks.
Each day, gates will open at 1 p.m. for VIP ticket holders and 2 p.m. for General Admission with tasting events and entertainment lasting until 5 p.m. This year’s charity beneficiaries will be Urban Harvest and Houston Foods Bank, supporting their efforts to expand their community garden programming.
Early bird tckets presented by Your Houston BMW Centers are available for purchase now in limited quantities. To purchase tickets and for more event details, visit chefsforfarmers.com/ houston.
VIP ACCESS: EARLY BIRD PRICING: $175 | Ticket prices to increase to $195 Guests can celebrate early with the VIP experience – an extra hour to get up close with participating
Coco's breakfast croissant
Photos by Dan Greer
Coco's Mallorca loaf
Coco's bacon, egg and cheese bites, and pastries
By LISA MORALES
THE WEEKEND.
a.m.-10 p.m.
Where: 1031 Stude St.
What: Outdoor painting session for all ages. Supplies provided. Cost: $10.31 Info: eventbrite.com
BINGO AT THE UPSIDE PUB
Who: All ages When: Saturday, Aug. 24, 2-4
p.m.
Where: 3402 N. Shepherd Dr.
What: Bingo with prizes – arrive early for best seats
Cost: $1 for three cards
Info: upsidepub.com/events
MID-SUMMER FLOWER CROWN WORKSHOP AT BUCHANAN’S NATIVE PLANTS
Who: Adults When: Saturday, Aug. 24, noon-1 p.m.
Where: 611 E. 11th Street
com/studio/houston-heights/ event/3755705
PAINTING IN THE PARK BY MISSION ACHIEVE
Who: All ages
When: Saturday, Aug. 24, 9
What: Step-by-step instruction for making a flower crown with seasonal blooms and foliage. BYOB (no hard liquor)
Cost: $85
Info: buchanansplants.com/ events/
LEVELS HOUSE PARTY AT
WHITE OAK MUSIC HALL
Who: Adults 18+
When: Saturday, Aug. 24, 9 p.m.
Where: 2915 N. Main St.
What: Dance party with throwback, electric pop music
The uplifting rally about Houston’s past and future is open to the public
On Saturday, Aug. 24, grab your party hats and venture out to downtown, because Houston is celebrating its 188th birthday with our city’s leaders and youth leaders! Mister McKinney, the chairperson of the annual City’s Happy Birthday Houston, invites Houstonians and tourists for a late afternoon of free and fun quality time, from 3-5 p.m., at 1100 Bagby Street.
“Our city was founded on August 30, 1836, by the Allen brothers who paid approximately $1.40 per acre for more than 6,000 acres near Buffalo Bayou,” the Heritage Society’s Executive Director Alison Bell said. “This year, to commemorate Houston turning 188 years young, we will co-host with Mister McKinney of Mister McKinney’s Historic Houston and the League of Women Voters Houston since August 26 is also Women’s Equality Day.”
The free, Hounique activities for all ages include the following: Houston History Bus tours of downtown by Mister McKinney of Mister McKinney’s Historic Houston at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., free museum admission from 3-5 p.m., BOGO women’s history tours all day, and a chance to win a weekend stay at the C. Baldwin Hotel that is named after the Mother of Houston, Charlotte Baldwin Allen. No reservations are needed,
THE TOPICS.
Home work has never been more fun
THE OFFICE – Back at the desk again. It’s just work, work, work. With familiar sounds like the earsplitting roar of the leaf blower out side my window, drowning out my “Best Siberian Tuba Melodies,” while I’m still re covering from my commute to work -- longer than usual because I had to stop by the kitchen and get a second cup of coffee. Yes, like millions of other Americans, I am still working at home. But this situ ation is changing across the country. I’ll tell you what, but just why is a little more complicated. In any event, it probably influences you. For years, if not decades, Americans worked, on average, 40 hours a week, 9 to 5, Monday through Friday. All of that changed drastically in 2020 when COVID-19 hit rather unexpectedly. It began to take hold in the U.S. in January and soon swept the nation. By mid-April, disaster declarations were made by all states and territories as they all had increasing cases. You will recall (it wasn’t that long ago) when shops closed, masks were donned (except where prohibited by Gov. Greg Abbot) and workers stayed
over your shoulder to make sure your computer was not showing porn and, best of all, no commuting. While millions of Americans preferred this change in their lifestyles for the better, there were severe drawbacks for many others. The mom-and-pop lunch counters in or near office buildings were empty and soon went out of business. Fewer passengers on busses and trains, thus lower incomes for cities. Restaurants were empty. So were theaters. (The release of the next James Bond film, “No Time To Die,” was delayed three times because of the
coronavirus pandemic.) Even
dry cleaners saw a huge drop in customers who didn’t need clean office outfits. We must suspect that there was a run on bathrobes. It was also a bad time for house burglars. Every house was occupied. Office buildings were bare. This last point is still with us. Across America, particularly in big cities, office vacancies are still not up to pre-COVID occupancy rates. During the first three months of 2023, office vacancy topped 20 percent for the first time in decades. In San Francisco, Dallas, and Houston, vacancy rates were as high as 25 percent. The problem for landlords won’t go away. This spring there were over 98 million square feet of office space available in Manhattan. The vacancy problem has a ripple effect. If the renter can’t pay or if the offices are empty, the landlord can’t pay the bank. But by defaulting on the loan, the situation changes. As John Maynard Keynes observed, when you owe your banker $1,000, you are at his mercy, but when you owe him $1 million, “the position is reversed.” Incidentally, much talk has been about converting all
these empty office buildings into residences or condos. But experts in such matters estimate that only about 30 percent of them could be fitted for residential conversion. It’s hard to put a toilet in each office cubicle.
As for workers, at first entire companies allowed their employees, particularly office workers, to do their jobs at home. Besides, the bosses didn’t want to work alongside sneezing and coughing secretaries. Then Zoom and Microsoft Teams got into the act. In 2017 there were an estimated 2 million daily users of Microsoft Teams worldwide. As of 2022, there were an estimated 270 million daily users. Grocery store checkout staffs and bank clerks cleverly put up thick plastic shields to ward off the bugs. But of course, hamburger flippers, cops and dentists had to be on the scene. Some large companies found they needed employees back on the job. One Wall Street CEO ordered: “If you can go to a restaurant, you can go to work.” He probably sent out the order from his vacation home in Aspen. Not to get bogged down in stats, but just to show
how our workforce has changed, locally workers in the Houston region like home work, but not as much as their fellow Texans. A study by marketing services company DesignRush listed Houston as the No. 5 best city for remote working, behind Sherman-Denison at No. 4, San Antonio at No. 3, Dallas-Fort Worth at No. 2 and Austin at No. 1. Nationally, between 2017 and 2018, about 34.7 million full-time workers did their jobs from home. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, by May 2020, the number hit 48.7 million. This brings us to the next step in home work: hybrid. More and more workers are spending some days at home and some days at the office. In the first quarter of 2024, 54 percent of U.S. workers reported working in a hybrid manner. Mondays and Fridays off seem to be the favorite, so much so that many downtown Houston lunch cafes only open Tuesdays through Thursdays.
This growing hybrid situation must present a problem for companies. Even if the workers (or as some places call them “team members” or “associates,” while “wage
slaves” is frowned on and so is “accomplices”) only show up occasionally they still need a desk, cubicle and computer. Faced with these situations, I don’t see how companies can shrink their spaces, but here in the Houston region, all sorts of companies are moving to smaller digs. It is clear that our work habits have changed and may never go back to the pre-COVID work week. Nearly 50 percent of people working from home during the pandemic said that, after it’s over, they would still prefer a combination of working from home and returning to the office. So our society is changing, and I think for the better. Now if you will excuse me, I’ve got to go back to work. After my next cup of coffee. Ashby slaves 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. Publication is at the discretion of the editor.
Photo by Chris Daigle
OAKS DADS’ CLUB, from P. 1
ODC’s mission has always been rooted in community involvement and the development of the next generation. The organization is supported by the tireless efforts of hundreds of volunteers, including coaches, team moms, and grounds crew members.
“This is truly a communitydriven organization. We have parents who grew up playing here and now bring their own children to participate. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are formed, and values like teamwork, sportsmanship, and work ethic are instilled,” Dodd said. “The organization has been supported by tens of thousands of youth and thousands of parents and volunteers over our last 70 years.”
One of the highlights of ODC’s anniversary celebra-
tion is the upcoming Tailgates & Tuxedos Gala on Saturday, Sept. 14. This special event is designed to celebrate 70 successful years of supporting local youth, and to raise funds for the continued growth and improvement of the club’s facilities.
“As a non-profit, our funding comes from membership dues, donations, and fundraising events like the annual BBQ Cook-Off,” Dodd said. “The Gala is an opportunity for us to secure the resources we need to support our mission for the next generation of athletes.”
The Oaks Dads’ Club has seen its share of success stories over the years, with some players even going on to compete in professional sports. However, Dodd is quick to point out that the true value of the club lies in the lessons learned on the field.
“While not every kid will go pro, the skills and values they gain here will serve them well in life. It’s about building char-
MOVIE REVIEW
“Longlegs” made me want to curl up into a ball
WARNING- MILD
SPOILERS
Star rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Marketing can make or break a film. Without good marketing, an amazing film could go unseen by the majority, which would be tragic. At the same time, a horrible film could be marketed to the moon and back and would end up being seen by the masses. The problem with incredible marketing is there’s no way to see if a movie is as good as promised unless you swallow your pride and watch it. That is the exact case with Longlegs, a film that, according to the trailers, would make your skin crawl. It was deemed the scariest film in decades, a modern Silence of the Lambs. The way this film was marketed gave me a looming feeling that if I saw this film, I’d walk out traumatized, scarred, horrified down to my very core. Longlegs is an objectively spooky film. If you see this film in a theater, you’ll most likely feel like someone is right behind you, lurking in the shadows, even after the film is long over. The movie follows Lee Harker, a paranoid FBI agent investigating a peculiar series of murders to which she has several strange connections. The main suspect of the murders, Longlegs, is portrayed by an unrecognizable Nicolas Cage, whose performance I’m split on. Cage’s performance gives an almost unreal vibe. Every other character in the film is very grounded, for the most part, except for him. Nicolas Cage feels almost inhuman, like a villain straight out of a
Saturday morning cartoon. There are several moments where he breaks out into song, and I understand why someone might find that scary, but it didn’t do it for me. The scenes not featuring the titular character were great. Every moment feels like it’s drowning in a sense of looming dread and panic. Every small movement a character makes gives the impression that they’re heading down a path leading to more and more danger. I was shaking in the theater. I have never been so terrified watching a movie. Call it a placebo from the marketing all you want, but the emotions I was feeling were real. The shaken feeling stuck with me for ¾ of the film until the twist. I’m going to tiptoe around spoiler territory, but all you need to know is that
the real killer is much less scary than expected. The real murderer isn’t a visible force, which leaves his appearance up to the imagination, which stands out in a movie that is otherwise very visual. To wrap things up, Longlegs is horrifying, but at a cost. Sadly, some aspects of it don’t work as well as others, coming across as very goofy instead of scary. The scenes that did it for me weren’t the ones actively trying to spook me, but the slower, more lingering scenes where characters just walk around. While it doesn’t live up to the impossible standards set by the trailers, Longlegs is still a very enjoyable, and even scarier, piece of film. Go seek out a local showing for Longlegs and be ready for a slow, occasionally nightmare-induced trip.
acter, sportsmanship, fostering a sense of community, and creating memories that last a lifetime,” he said.
Looking to the future, ODC is committed to continuing its tradition of excellence and community service. Plans are underway to further upgrade the facilities, ensuring they remain top-notch for years to come.
“We’re thinking big, with larger investments to rebuild and enhance our existing facilities,” Dodd said. “It’s not just about our kids; it’s about their kids and the generations that will follow.”
As the club celebrates its 70th anniversary, the sense of pride and community spirit is palpable.
“For me and my family, ODC has become a major part of our lives,” Dodd, dad to two boys of his own, reflected. “It’s where our boys play with
their friends, where we connect with other parents, and where we all come together to support our community.”
SHOW SUPPORT, JOIN THE PARTY
What: Oaks Dads’ Club
Tailgates & Tuxedos Gala, featuring food, fun, and friends, plus silent and live auctions
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 14 WHERE: Northside Columbus Club, 607 E. Whitney St. ATTIRE: Texas tux festive — think Texas style tux meets boots, jeans, and tailgate bling TICKETS/TABLES: Visit odcsports.com to reserve; hurry, ticket sales close Aug. 31 For more information about the Oaks Dads’ Club, including enrolling your child, upcoming events, and how to get involved, please visit odcsports.com.
TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN AIR PERMIT (NORI) AIR QUALITY PERMIT NUMBER 177159
APPLICATION Cemex Construction Materials Houston, LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for: Issuance of Permit 177159
This application would authorize continued operation of the Concrete Batch Plant located at 17919 Kermier Road, Hockley, Harris County, Texas 77447 AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/ airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.846111,30.026111&level=13. The facility will emit the following contaminants: particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on August 8, 2024. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Houston regional office, and the Lone Star College - Tomball Community Library, 30555 Tomball Parkway, Tomball, Harris County, Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review in the Houston regional office of the TCEQ.
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to those comments.
PUBLIC MEETING. You may request a public meeting to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or ask questions about the application. A public meeting about the application will be held if requested by an interested person and the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing. After technical review of the application is complete, the executive director may prepare a draft permit and will issue a preliminary decision on the application. If a draft Air Quality Permit is prepared, a Notice of Application and Preliminary Decision is required and it will then be published and mailed to those who made comments, submitted hearing requests or are on the mailing list for this application and will contain the final deadline for submitting public comments.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING You may request a contested case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, and daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing”; (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or an association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 30 days after newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after the mailing of the response to comments.
If a hearing request is timely filed, following the close of all applicable comment and request periods, the Executive Director will forward the application and
Submitted photo
The Oaks Dads’ Club is celebrating 70 years of youth development with a gala Sept. 14.
Submitted photo
Elliott StEwart Youth Movie Critic
Image from neonrated.com
Art Valet: The Health Museum launches Healing Arts Program
Earlier this month The Health Museum, an interactive health science museum located in the Houston Museum District, launched the Healing Arts Program with a private gallery opening titled “Healing Hands: A Collection of Caregiver Expressions on Mental Wellness.”
Houston artist Lilibeth
André answered a June call for artists I sent out for the Health Museum. A few week’s later André excitedly wrote back to let me know her art was chosen to exhibit.
Selected artists’ work will be displayed at The Health Museum for 6 months, exposing their work to thousands of visitors, possibly over 80,000 per year. The top 3 winners get to work with the Amazing Body Store at the Museum to put their art on swag.
André’s piece titled The Passage was chosen as the first place winner! The oil on canvas measures 48 W x 36 H, and depicts the artist guiding people walking in a shallow riverbed from what looks like a dark place into sunny skies over fields of green grass and flowers.
The gallery collection, the Healing Hands, was co-created with caregivers who use art to tell their stories about caring for others, which is part of the Healing Arts Program vision to empower healthier living for all through a fusion of art and science.
Rose Tylinski, the museum’s Healing Arts Manager, accomplished artist, and advocate for the transforma-
tive power of the arts to heal, educate, and inspire, developed the program to explore the intersections of art, medicine, and culture, and provide the community with an outlet for processing experiences relating to physical health and mental health. Tylinski is dedicated to bridging the gap between the arts and health sectors.
Through workshops, exhibitions, and community engagement, the program increases the museum’s capacity for connection and healing in the Houston community. The new Healing Arts Program is designed to integrate the arts into health education and practice, catering to all age groups, including medical students.
André told me that her painting was based on a
dream she had as a teenager. After her son Alex passed in 2023, she felt compelled to paint the dream. As a traditional Naturopath, André
helps people heal in body, heart and spirit. In her dream she was encouraging a group of people to move through the darkness, where we are
now, into the light and abundance. She knew she had to paint the dream, it persisted in her thoughts. “I got the art call after I de-
cided the painting was done and put the knife down,” André said. Now that is serendipity!
The Healing Arts Program has several different programs that the community is invited to take part in. For more information, visit thehealthmuseum. org, or contact Tylinski at rtylinski@thehealthmuseum. org or by calling 713-3378461, ext. 271. Learn more about Lilibeth André on her website lilibethandre.com. The Passage is on view at the Health Museum and can be purchased here: saatchiart.com/ account/artworks/66540
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at
Photo by Tre’Voy Kelly & Company
Anson Koshy, Katie Scott, Lilibeth Andre, Rose Tylinski, Gabriela Magana at the Healing Hands opening.
