National Night Out: Strengthening communities through unity and crime prevention
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
This October, neighborhoods across Houston are preparing to come together for National Night Out (NNO), a nationwide initiative aimed at fostering community spirit and building stronger relationships between residents and law enforcement. Celebrated in Texas on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024, National Night Out encourages neighborhoods to gather for an evening of fun, food,
and connection while promoting safety and crime prevention. The event has evolved into one of the largest community-building campaigns in the United States.
ORIGINS OF NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
National Night Out began in 1984 as the brainchild of Matt A. Peskin, the Executive Director of the National Association of Town Watch. The goal was simple: to increase par-
ticipation in local crime prevention efforts by uniting entire communities for a single night. The first event involved 400 communities in 23 states, with around 2.5 million Americans participating. Today, more than 37 million people in over 15,000 communities take part in NNO, celebrating from coast to coast, and even in U.S. territories, military bases, and Canadian cities.
TINY TREASURES
How an Oak Forest man and the Houston Stamp Club keep history alive
By CHRIS DAIGLE The Leader News Contributor
“It’s been a passion of mine since I was a kid,” says Greg Cain of his love of stamp collecting. “Like many collectors, my dad got me started at a young age, and we usually start with United States Commemoratives, the colorful stamps that most start with. Then I worked up to United States Revenue stamps, and my own particular collection is about Franklin D. Roosevelt these days.” Cain echoes a fascinating interest in combining history with a hobby.
Cain, a resident of Oak Forest, retired from Service Corporation International a while back, and that allowed him to pursue stamp collecting and being involved with the Houston Stamp Club, also known as the Houston Philatelic Society. Lots
of people collect lots of things, and it often stems from a family history and an affinity for interesting things
that are familiar. Philately involves the study, appreciation, and collection of postage stamps, stamped envelopes, postmarks, and related materials associated with mail delivery. While closely linked to stamp collecting, a person can be a philatelist without owning any stamps. The focus lies in understanding the historical context, design, and significance of these miniature works of art. This hobby emerged after the introduction of the world’s first postage stamp, the “penny black”, in 1840 England. In the United States, early collectors were known as “stamp gatherers”. Stamps gained popularity, and even old stamps from before the American Civil War were reissued by the United States Postal Service due to public demand.
New mobility ride service for disabled and seniors rolls into town
By CHARLIE HARDWICK The Leader News Contributor
A new mobility service rolls into Houston offering safe rides, serving those with mobility challenges in and around the 610 Loop area. Tootl Transport is a new Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) franchise that provides wheelchair accessible vehicles and trained drivers to assist those with mobility and cognitive challenges. Houstonians Kenneth Bardlette and his wife Delilah launched the franchise in our area with an interest in providing the community with a high quality service that strives to make a positive impact, emphasizing core family values as their primary mission.
ROOTS IN CHICAGO Bardlette explained the history of the Tootl franchise, saying it was started by Chicago couple Tom and Michelle Dacy. The Dacy’s are industry professionals with over twenty years working with people who have special needs and their families. Their expertise in coordinating wheelchair accessibility for tens of thousands of clients is supported by their mission and core family values, driving their desire to deliver a high quality service for the community. The Dacy’s success in Chicago
lio, which includes galleries in
and
Palix, a FrenchMexican art expert, has a long his
tory of working with internationally renowned artists and organizing exhibitions at prestigious art fairs worldwide, including Art Basel, FIAC, and ARCO. Her goal with The Heights Petite Shoppe is to create a space that celebrates her passion for art and culture while empowering women-owned businesses to thrive.
Photo by Chris Daigle
Greg Cain displays his United States commemorative stamps he has been collecting all his life.
Photo by Greg Cain
The annual Houston Stamp Collectors Show in Humble draws collectors from around the United States for a threeday event.
Photo courtesy of Tootl
Kenneth Bardlette and his wife Delilah recently launched the Tootle franchise in Houston.
Submitted photo
The space behind Artique Gallery where art talks, book signings, and art showings are held.
THE PEOPLE.
CenterPoint Energy completes greater Houston Resiliency Initiative (GHRI) Core Resiliency Actions
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Proposal reflects largest investment in Greater Houston infrastructure in the company's nearly 160-year history and includes a proposal to forego $110 million in profits
CenterPoint Energy recently announced the completion, ahead of schedule, of core resiliency actions as part of the first phase of its Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative (GHRI) – which included a series of targeted actions to improve the resiliency of CenterPoint Houston Electric's grid this hurricane season. In addition, in a letter to lawmakers, the company also announced the boldest series of resiliency actions in its history, including: (1) a second phase of GHRI, which will include system hardening, strategic undergrounding, self-healing grid technology and further enhancements to the company's outage tracker; and (2) a longer-term proposal – which will be filed after discussions with stakeholders, elected officials, and custom-
ers – of approximately $5 billion in resiliency investment from 2026 to 2028, potentially doubling its prior planned investment.
"We have heard the call to action from our customers and elected officials, and we are responding with bold actions. Our defining goal, going forward, is this: to build the most resilient coastal grid in the country that can better withstand the extreme weather of the future. To achieve this ambition, we will undertake a historic level of resiliency actions and investment, because this is what the people of the Greater Houston area expect and deserve," said Jason Wells, CenterPoint President and CEO.
CENTERPOINT'S PLAN OF ACTION
CenterPoint's resiliency plans include a series of immediate, near- and longerterm actions, some of which the company has already begun, including the immediate first phase of GHRI.
Immediate Actions: Completed Ahead of Schedule
CenterPoint undertook a series of actions as part of
the first phase of its GHRI to immediately strengthen the electric system and address heightened risks posed by the current hurricane season. During this phase, more than 2,500 employees and contractors were mobilized and, as of August 27, the company has successfully completed all three core resiliency actions ahead of schedule, including: Installing more than 300 automation devices to help reduce the impact of outages during storms; (completed on 08/11/24) Installing more than 1,000 stronger poles that can withstand more powerful winds (completed on 08/20/24); and Trimming and/or removing hazardous vegetation from more than 2,000 miles of power lines (completed on 08/27/2024)
In addition to this immediate resiliency work, CenterPoint has completed 39 of the 42 critical actions previously identified as part of its broader GHRI plan. To learn more about this immediate phase of progress, please visit
Harris County Master Gardeners local schedule
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Heirloom and Passalong Plants by Harris County Master Gardeners.
TUES, SEPT 17, 11 a.m.-
noon. Learn about some treasured southern heirlooms and how to “pass them along” to friends and neighbors. Free Virtual Lecture hosted by Harris County Public Library via Facebook Live. No reservation required: facebook. com/harriscountypl/events Gardening for Extreme Weather by Harris County Master Gardeners.
MON, OCT 14, 10-11:30
a.m. Learn how weather extremes affect our yards and what we can do to help our plants survive during
future events. Free Virtual Lecture hosted by Houston Community College. Register in advance to receive link: hcc.idloom.events/gardeningseries/register Gardening for Extreme Weather by Harris County
Master Gardeners.
TUES, OCT 15, 11 a.m.noon. Learn how weather extremes affect our yards and what we can do to help our plants survive during future events. Free Virtual Lecture hosted by Harris County Public Library via Facebook Live. No reservation required: facebook.com/harriscountypl/events Container Gardening by Harris County Master Gardeners.
SAT, SEPT 28, 10:30 a.m. Wabash Feed & Garden, 4537 N Shepherd Dr., Houston. Whether you want to grow vegetables or ornamentals, learn how to best grow them in containers.. hcmga.tamu. edu
CenterPointEnergy.com/ TakingAction.
Near-Term Actions (September 1 to June 1, 2025)
CenterPoint will launch the near-term phase of its resiliency actions on September 1, which will include additional actions to further: 1) strengthen grid resiliency, 2) improve public and customer communications and 3) strengthen local, community and emergency partnerships in preparation for this winter and before the 2025 hurricane season. Actions, such as further hardening of the grid, a year-round campaign on safety, and joint preparedness exercises with local emergency management offices, are outlined in the attached letter to lawmakers. The company will provide a more detailed work plan and schedule for this second phase of actions by September 30.
Longer-Term Actions (2026-2028)
As part of its longer-term strategy, CenterPoint will also propose investing approximately $5 billion from
In Texas and other Southern states, National Night Out is held in October instead of the national August date to take advantage of cooler weather, ensuring greater turnout and participation.
The Near Northwest Management District (NNMD) will host its National Night Out event on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the White Oak Bayou Village Shopping Center located at 6640 Antoine Drive. NNMD Director of Public Safety & Field Service, Walter Funes, expressed the district’s enthusiasm, stating, “National Night Out in Near Northwest Management District is one of the most attended festivals in Northwest Houston. We are expecting almost 2,500 attendees who will get to experience Carver High School’s amazing Baile Folklórico team and their Mariachi Band. We are excited to have our local officials address the community at our main stage, which happens to be a live-size wrestling ring!” In addition to performances and speeches, NNMD’s National Night Out will feature crime prevention tips, giveaways, and opportunities for residents to meet local law enforcement and businesses. Booths hosted by local organizations will provide resources, games, and activities, all while fostering a sense of camaraderie among neighbors. For more information about attending or hosting a booth at the Near Northwest Management District’s National Night Out, visit NNMD.org or call 713-8958021.
OAK FOREST HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Oak Forest is another Houston neighborhood embracing National Night Out. Oak Forest Homeowners Association (OFHA) Director of Public Relations Deena Alcorta said, “In Oak Forest, we believe that strong communities start with strong connections. Meeting your neighbors fosters a sense of belonging, community, and friendship –it’s one of the many reasons
2026 to 2028 – the largest investment in Greater Houston infrastructure in the company's nearly 160year history. The mission of this longer-term plan of action is to build the most resilient coastal grid in the country by investing in a smarter grid of the future that can better withstand a broad spectrum of risks. The proposal, and the entire scope of these actions will be outlined in a new system resiliency plan that is expected to be filed with the Public Utility Commission of Texas on or before January 31, 2025. The new system resiliency plan will be shaped by feedback from customers, external experts, and other stakeholders, including elected officials and local agencies.
Addressing Temporary Emergency Generation Concerns
In its letter to lawmakers, the company also committed to evaluating the role of large-scale temporary emergency generation and apologized to lawmakers for not communicating more clearly to them about the cost and the limitations of
people love calling Oak Forest home.”
Alcorta encourages residents to come out and join their neighbors for driveway gatherings to strengthen connections within their community. Residents interested in hosting can email info@ofha. org for more information. To find the gathering nearest you, see ofha.org/NeighborsNight-Out
FIRST WARD CIVIC COUNCIL
The First Ward Civic Council will host its National Night Out event at Sawyer Yards’ Art Alley, located at 1502 Sawyer Street. This family-friendly event, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., will include food, drinks, raffle prizes, and an opportunity to meet local businesses, elected officials, police officers, and firefighters. Brian Rausch, President of the First Ward Civic Council, noted, “It’s always been one of our biggest events of the year, and we expect the same this year. It’s a great opportunity for the community – residents, businesses, police, and fire –to meet up, get to know one another, and share some food and drink.” Contact firstwardhouston.org for more details
WEST END CIVIC CLUB
The West End Civic Club will host its National Night
such large-scale units as it worked to find solutions and protect Texans from the devastating impacts of extreme winter weather in the months following Winter Storm Uri. CenterPoint is undertaking a series of actions to address this issue, including a proposal to forego approximately $110 million in profit, which is equivalent to more than half of the equity earnings from the company's lease of temporary emergency generation.
Reinforcing Commitment to Customer Affordability CenterPoint remains committed to affordability, as reflected by the fact that customer rates that pay for the Transmission & Distribution system have remained relatively flat over the past 10 years. CenterPoint will continue to prioritize affordability, including by conducting an independent third-party assessment of the benefits and costs of these longerterm investments. Learn more at CenterPointEnergy.com/ TakingAction.
Out at West End Park (4300 Koehler Street) from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on October 1. The event promises music, food, raffle prizes, and more, creating a lively atmosphere where neighbors can meet, mingle, and celebrate their community spirit. For more information visit the event page on Facebook at facebook.com/ share/jHQKopzNrn49T5Fz.
BUILDING SAFER, STRONGER COMMUNITIES
National Night Out has proven to be an effective tool in promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood solidarity. The event enhances relationships between residents and law enforcement while fostering the sense of community necessary for crime prevention. By getting to know their neighbors and working together with local officials, Houston residents can take active steps in creating safer, more caring communities.
Whether you’re attending in Oak Forest, the Near Northwest District, or the First Ward, National Night Out is a chance to build meaningful connections that last beyond the evening’s festivities. As Walter Funes said, “Please join us for a night of fun with our local law enforcement and first responders!”
NNO, from P. 1
What Men Need to Know About Prostate Cancer: Signs, Symptoms and Screenings
One in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, making it the most common cancer among men in the U.S. Many remain unaware of its presence until symptoms manifest into advanced stages. Understanding the signs, symptoms and the invaluable role screening plays is crucial in the fight against prostate cancer.
WHAT DOES PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING ENTAIL?
The most common screening test for prostate cancer is called the prostate-specific antigen test or PSA test. Checking for PSA levels involves a blood test which measures the level of PSA in the blood, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated PSA levels may indicate the presence of prostate cancer or other prostate-related issues.
Other screening methods include the digital rectal exam (DRE) which involves a healthcare provider manually examining the prostate gland for any abnormalities. A biopsy of the prostate gland is another screening tool that will allow your physician to diagnose prostate cancer. Patients who have elevated PSA may undergo a prostate MRI to evaluate if they have any lesion on the prostate which are suspicious for prostate cancer.
“The PSA test is the most well-known and frequently used screening tool for prostate cancer most health care providers will recommend since it can be
added to a routine blood test panel,” said Dr. Dharam Kaushik, a urologic oncologist at Houston Methodist. “Screening beyond a PSA test may not be warranted unless we need to further refine prostate cancer risk or need to do a biopsy to rule out or confirm a diagnosis.”
WHY IS PROSTATE SCREENING IMPORTANT?
When detected early, prostate cancer is very treatable. Detecting the disease in its early stages significantly enhances treatment options and the likelihood of successful outcomes. Without regular screening, prostate cancer can progress silently, spreading to other parts of the body and becoming more challenging to treat. “Prostate cancer often
presents with few or no symptoms in its early stages,” says Kaushik. “By the time symptoms appear, the disease may have already advanced, making treatment more complex. Routine screening empowers men to take proactive control of their health and detect potential issues early.”
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PROSTATE CANCER
While prostate cancer may initially manifest without noticeable symptoms, as the disease progresses, certain signs may emerge. These can include:
Urinary issues: Frequent urination, especially at night, weak urine flow, difficulty starting or stopping urination Blood in urine or semen: Unexplained blood in
achieving or maintaining an erection
Pain or Discomfort: Painful or burning sensation during urination or ejaculation, discomfort in the pelvic area or lower back
These symptoms can also be indicative of other prostate conditions, so it’s important to consult with your health care provider for proper evaluation if you have one or more of these symptoms.
WHEN SHOULD I GET A PROSTATE SCREENING?
The ideal time to initiate prostate cancer screening varies based on individual risk factors and medical history. Generally, men should discuss screening with their health
care provider starting at age 50. However, for those with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors, such as African American men, screening discussions should commence earlier, typically around age 40 to 45.
• Age 40 to 45: for people at increased risk of developing prostate cancer such as black ancestry, germline mutations in the family, and strong family history of prostate cancer. Men may begin prostate cancer screening
• Age 50: Men should undergo prostate cancer screening every 2-4 years from age 50 to 69 years
For more information about prostate cancer symptoms, causes and screenings, visit www. houstonmethodist.org/cancer/ prostate-cancer/ or call 713790-2700.
Convenient, easy-to-access locations for primary, specialty and emergency care
To find a location, visit houstonmethodist.org/central or call 713.790.3333.
The Church at 1548 Heights hires new lead minister
Photo courtesy of The Church at 1548 Heights
and Shelly Huddleston
THE TOPICS.
Without rhyme or reason
“Three blind mice. See how they run. They all ran after the farmer’s wife, Who cut off their tails with a carving knife, Did you ever see such a sight in your life, As three blind mice?”
~ English nursery rhyme, 1609
Associated Press: Three blind mice pursued a farmer’s wife in Dreadful Falls, England, who cut off their tails with a carving knife, according to a police report. One neighbor, Josh Cumquat, said, “I heard her screaming, ‘Mice! Mice!’ then there was a terrible chopping sound.” Apparently there has not been a situation like this before in Dreadful Falls because no one had ever seen such a sight in their life.
Wall Street Journal: Prices in mice futures fell dramatically today as rumor spread that there is at least one instance of a crusade against them. Brokers are not to panic but as one executive at Scream & Shout Brothers said: “A rumor is as good as a fact. I advised all my clients to sell every stock beginning with M.” However, there has been such a run on stocks of Blades ‘R’ Us and Rodent Assassins, Inc. that trading was halted. Press Conference with President Joe Biden: In answer to your question, I
feel that the three blind mice had, uh, the farmer’s wife was within her, uh, what was the question?
Variety: Boffo on the Cutting Edge! Bulletin from across the pond says three mice were de-tailed. This could doom the greenlight for the West End production, “Of Mice and Men.” The docudrama features a Brit gal who chopped off the back sides of three rampaging gray fuzzies. The 75-yearlong run of Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” is on hold. Meanwhile George Clooney and Tom Cruise are going ahead with their multisquillion dollar extras, “The Butcher of Dreadful Falls – The Musical.” Disney reports no change is planned for Mickey Mouse’s backside, but its worldwide parks are suffering a steep drop in their passenger thrill, The Rodent Rapids, as some funsters claimed they had never seen such a sight in their life.
immigrant mice is yet another horrid example of what happens when the Biden administration allows open borders. The perpetrators would never get into Texas to run rampant in our state, thanks to Operation Lone Star. But it shows what steps a farmer’s wife can take with a Charter School education. And the scoundrels would not be allowed to vote, either. I have never seen such a sight in my life. But it’s not my fault.
and blinking red lights and a reporter on the scene, with our SkyHigh HeloChopper hovering above. Here with a report is Scoop Nicehair and an interview with a neighbor who thought she heard something down the street. Go ahead,
National Rifle Association: An army of vicious mice attacked a farmer’s wife in England. Armed with only a carving knife, she managed to cut off their tails. You know those woke English. If she had an AR-15, she could have blasted those beasts to jelly. Here in the states, leftwinger wussies are trying to weaken our God-given Second Amendment rights by disarming patriotic citizens of their howitzers and bazookas. It’s a slippery slope. Next they will try to take away our carving knives.
kitchen Page 34-35 and our editorial, “What Does Mice Massacre Mean to Brexit?”
Sources told the Times that in a nursery rhyme based on the gruesome story, the farmer’s wife is actually Henry VIII’s daughter Mary who restored Catholicism to England when she became queen. Among those who were executed for refusing to rejoin the Catholic fold were bishops Ridley and Latimer and Archbishop Cranmer. They were burned at the stake because they were too “blind” to see that the Catholic faith was the only true faith. See “Chronological Chart of the Evolution of Faith,” page 107-123.
ISD: In keeping with a demand from Mothers Against Kitchen Violence, all mention, teaching or reference to the trio of blind mice who had their tails cut off by a farmer’s wife wielding a carving knife are prohibited. School library books containing this story will be burned, along with the librarian.
Press release from Gov.
Local TV: Breaking News! This just in: Three blind mice were maimed by a farmer’s wife in Dreadful Falls, England, which is not exactly in our viewing area but we do have tape showing a rat that was hit by a car in Conroe. There are shots of yellow police tape
The New York Times: A trio of Mus musculus had their tails eternally rendered asunder by a farmer’s wife in Dreadful Falls, England. She accused the animals of “running after me,” and is expected to plead selfdefense in a court hearing next week. See: “History of English Mice” Pages 12-14, a map of Dreadful Falls and the layout of the farmer’s wife’s
ESPN: Tonight! Trash sports! A farmer’s wife takes on a trio of rabid rodents in an all-or-nothing smack-down. Also: Hula Hoop Warriors as Toxic goes against Gang Green in barbed wire hoops and the Sisters of Perpetual Chastity go for the arm wrestling championship with the Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Mighty Muscles. You will never see such a sight in your life.
Kamala Harris: A farmer’s wife cut off the tails of three mice. I was for the wife but that was before I was for the mice.
Press release from Katy
Sean Hannity on Fox News: A report from that liberal island of not-so-Great Britain is that a town aptly called Dread Falls because, like all American cities it’s probably run by corrupt Democrats, tells us an innocent child was viciously attacked by fourfoot-long rabid rodents. She managed to save her life by cutting off their heads. This brings us to Kamala Harris’s leading the riot on our consulate in Benghazi. Unbelievable. Ashby rhymes 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.
A Tale of Two Bridges launches initiative to plant 200 trees along the
COMMUNITY REPORTS
A Tale of Two Bridges, a Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to making neighborhoods more walkable, bikeable and connected has announced a new project to plant 200 trees along the Heights Hike and Bike Trail. The project will partner with Trees for Houston and Livelihood, set to culminate with a community planting day on January 25, 2025, aims to provide much-needed shade and foster a greener, more inviting environment for trail users.
The Heights Hike and Bike Trail is a vital connector for Houston’s walkers, cyclists,
Heights Hike and Bike Trail
and local businesses. Over the years, it has become a unique space where the lines between recreation, exercise, and transportation blur, creating a truly walkable environment in a city where such spaces are rare. However, a significant stretch of the trail lacks sufficient shade, leaving trail users exposed to the harsh Houston sun.
“Our mission goes beyond just planting trees,” said Emmanuel Nunez, founder of A Tale of Two Bridges. “We want to show the community that with a little determination and the right partnerships, it’s possible to create lasting, positive change in our neighbor-
hoods. These 200 trees provide shade and beauty while serving as a living testament to what can be achieved when people come together.”
The project began as a personal journey for Nunez, who has been planning this initiative for the past two years. In March 2023, he successfully planted 26 trees along Nicholson Street and West 8th Street, directly adjacent to the trail, nurturing them daily with hand watering. The success of these initial plantings, supported by local experts like Barry Ward from Trees for Houston, inspired Nunez to expand his vision.
The initiative has already
raised $3,554 towards its $10,000 goal. The organization will be submitting for a matching grant that could match up to $5,000 by a grant from the Department of Neighborhoods matching grant program. The preliminary grant application has already been given blessing by District C Councilmember Abbie Kamin, bringing the total project budget to $15,000. The funds will cover the cost of watering the trees and ensuring their care for the next two years.
To manage the care for the additional 200 trees, A Tale of Two Bridges will partner with local businesses and residen-
tial homeowners to establish an irrigation system. Trees for Houston will also support the effort for those trees not covered by automatic irrigation by providing water weekly using a watering truck and tree watering bags.
In the weeks leading up to the planting, starting on January 11, 2025, volunteers will begin clearing invasive species and tilling the soil to prepare the site. The community is invited to participate in the planting day, where they will have the opportunity to engage with local businesses that sponsor the project.
“This project is deeply personal for me,” Nunez said. “Planting these trees in January, close to the anniversary of my father’s passing, is my way of honoring his memory. I hope that our efforts will inspire others to take on similar projects in their own
communities, showing that it’s possible to make a difference.” A Tale of Two Bridges is offering business sponsorships for $2,500. Sponsors will receive recognition in all official project communications, promotional materials, and the opportunity to engage with the community on planting day.
GoFundMe: gofundme. com/manage/help-us-plant200-trees-along-the-heightshike-and-bike-trai
Stripe: atotb.org/lets-donate-for-shade
PayPal: paypal.com/ donate/?hosted_button_ id=GYJFAWZ4U5B2C
For more information about the project, to donate, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please visit atotb. org/shade and follow A Tale of Two Bridges on Instagram at instagram.com/ataleoftwobridges/
The title of the first philatelist, or collector, is often attributed to a Paris, France, postmaster named Mansen. He sold his extensive stamp collection, recognizing their collector’s value. Today, the fascination with postage stamps continues in many forms. The Greater Houston Stamp Society Foundation is here to assist collectors with learning more about the hobby as they continue their journey of discovery.
Cain is very involved in every aspect of this hobby. He is Co-Chair of Publicity for the Houston Stamp Club’s annual stamp show, which will be held this year from Sept. 20-22 at the Humble Civic Center. Admission and parking are free. Cain says a wide variety of things are presented at a stamp show. The event is billed as having 26 dealer “bourse”. “That’s an old fashioned word for market place” he says. ”It’s a term used in stamp collecting circles to convey the history of the stamp collector’s spirit.”
The show also promotes an annual special single frame exhibit, with the color combination being white. Cain says every year there’s a banquet on Saturday night, and one of the things they do is perform a ceremony of fetching a crayon from a box, and whatever color is picked
will be the color theme for the competition next year. “Last year the choice was white, so they’ll be showing stamps with a white theme like snowmen,” Cain explains. Cain says a stamp show is an elaborate experience: “Dealers come from around the United States to be here. They will arrive two days before the show with truckloads of exhibits they’ve gathered at each other’s shows”. Not just stamps take center stage at a stamp show, “Postcards collecting is sort of a subset of stamp collecting. Someone will take a city or even a country or a hotel and collect a chronology of history on that subject and make a timeline.”
What drives a collector to prefer stamps over paintings or cars or glassware?
“Probably in my case that’s what my father got me interested in, and his father before him. As a matter of fact, I still have my grandfather’s albums from the 1930s here on my bookshelf,” he says proudly. “But other reasons are affordability, availability, and portability. Someone can have lots and lots of stamps and still carry the book around. If you collect thousands of coins, you’re not going to be able to pick that up.”
Certainly, collectors of Coke machines can relate to that point. “You know, a real motivator in this hobby is a
love of history” says Cain. “And there’s a very active subset of this known as Postal History which centers around the envelopes, though we collectors call them covers; that can tell the story of a place or a hotel or a city and tell a story of what happened there.”
The attraction to this hobby reaches far and wide. ”It can get as personal as someone’s trip to Bermuda, or a range of subjects like ticket stubs or guitar picks. It has a personal challenge to find another piece
burgeoned an expansion first into Milwaukee, then on to Detroit and later Arlington. Houston is the most recent franchise addition, started by the Bardlettes this past August.
EXPANDING
INVENTORY OF VANS
Tootl’s vans are all equipped with either single or double wheelchair accessible lifts in the event they need to service two occupants at a time. At present, the startup has six vans in operation but expects to double their inventory with a dozen by the end of September. All drivers are fully trained to assist customers and have gone through rigorous criminal and driver background checks to ensure rider safety.
Bardlette said, “We are excited to get people on board to
experience the cream of the crop of this new accessible ride service.”
LOVE FOR COMMUNITY
Kenneth and Delilah Bardlette originally hail from Chicago, but after moving around the United States for many years because of job transfers for Delilah’s job with United Airlines, they finally settled in Houston for good. Seeking franchise opportunities that would help them become more ingrained into the community, a friend suggested a consultant who showcased the Tootl franchise as a growth potential that would serve neighbors who were mobility challenged.
Bardlette remarked, “Houston is our home and we want to establish our roots here, so operating a business that serves the community is important to us.”
HOW TO ACCESS A RIDE
Potential riders can find out information about how to ride by accessing Tootl’s website, ridetootl.com/houstoncentral. The website will guide customers through the process of how to register and book a ride. If navigating the website is challenging, Tootol has a phone number to call to receive personal help in registration and ride reservations. The ride service has a base rate of $49, plus $4 per mile. Tootl has no limited service area. At present they largely service the 610 Loop area, transporting passengers to the Memorial Hermann medical complex near Ella & 610, as well as the assisted living facilities in the area. Although mostly focused on the North 610 Loop, Tootl will take customers anywhere in Houston.
Bartlett said, “We have been reaching out to the area hospitals and nursing homes to let them know about our service. We’re out there trying to get a foothold in the area and give people rides to see what they think about us.”
of the puzzle,” Cain says. “It flows along the lines of what the famous photographer Paul Gittings said -- ‘The reason we are doing things like this is to leave a trail.’”
Cain’s personal commitment to collecting is with United States stamps and envelopes, and centers on stamps related to Franklin D. Roosevelt.
“He was also a stamp collector. He was a fascinating figure in American history and deserves to be remembered,” he says. ”It’s the thrill of the
The shop features artists from France, Belgium, Ethiopia, Canada, and Mexico. Several of these artist now call the Heights their home. Palix explained:
“Each vendor brings a unique flavor to the shop, from luxury leather goods and handspun textiles to gourmet French products.”
One of the standout artisans is Gwen Coz of Elphile, a master leather craftsman who creates beautiful handbags and accessories from Italian leather. Her items are meticulously detailed, customizable, and some of her belts are even reversible. Coz’s craftsmanship extends to the kitchen, where she occasionally whips up artisanal buckwheat crepes in the shop during food tasting demonstration event. Customers can pre-order crepes to take home, reheat with butter, and fill as they like.
The gourmet offerings at The Heights Petite Shoppe also include delicacies from Trésors de France, such as world-class chocolates, croissants, marmalades, and
hunt in every collector’s
soul. You have to think about affordability, availability, whether you already have that piece or not, what are the differences in that piece that would make it stand out, etc. We think about rarity, and quality.” Cain says that occasionally people will come to the club meetings with collections they’ve inherited and know nothing about from family, wondering what they are worth. ”Almost always the answer is the collection has value sentimentally but not much monetary value, because they are so common.”
Are there unusual or odd stamps that stand out?
“Yes, the most famous of these is the “Inverted Jenny” airplane stamp from 1918,” says Cain. “There were only 100 stamps printed on one sheet before the printing office saw the error. That was purchased by William Rovie and he immediately knew what he had and sold it for $15,000 dollars, which was enormous money at that time.”
Of the 100 stamps made, 99 are still known, but one is missing. Stamps with misprints have been known to sell for $400,000 at stamp shows across the United States. “There is a subset of collectors called Errors, Freaks, and Oddities -meaning the stamps, not the people -- where they study these unusual stamps.”
macarons. Custom orders for mini cheese and charcuterie boards are welcome. In addition to gourmet goods, the shop hosts workshops, including an upcoming workshop with Jimmy Mornet, Pastry Masterchef from France.
Photographer Kathleen Lievens is another key figure at the shop, capturing the essence of The Heights through iconic images reimagined in colorful, abstract forms. Her artwork resonates with those who appreciate the charm and creativity of the neighborhood.
Adding a meaningful, global touch to the shop is the Gojo Bet Collection from Ethiopia. Handmade textiles—blankets, throws, and scarves— are created on wooden looms using sustainably sourced, handspun Ethiopian cotton. These products support and empower women in Ethiopia, making them not only beautiful but socially impactful.
For those who love vintage treasures, The Heights Petite Shoppe also features a resale section offering one-of-a-kind glassware, vintage and gently used clothing, shoes, and hats. Each item is selected
The history of postage stamps goes back deep into the 19th century. Cain says the first postage stamp was issued by Great Britain in 1840 and pictured a young Queen Victoria .It was called the “Penny Black”.
“Before that, the receiver had to pay the postage, not the sender,” Cain says. Our first postage stamps in the United States started in 1847 and pictured Benjamin Franklin on the 5 cent and 10 cent stamps, as well as George Washington. For several years, the Universal Postal Union prescribed that nations shall not use living persons as subjects of stamps. That rule lost its significance after World War I.
A real concern, says Cain, is preservation.
“These collections can be a serious financial investment, and time and temperature are no friend to paper that’s been around since 1920,” he says. “Special plastic pages and acid-free paper are essential to keeping these paper goods safe, since some stamps can cost hundreds, maybe thousands, of dollars.” Cain and thousands of others can be known as collectors, but inside each one is a historian. Whether as family memories or a challenge to fill a void, these small paper masterpieces are a window into the soul of a civilization.
for its originality and unique style, adding yet another layer of charm to the shop’s eclectic offerings.
Yvonamor Palix envisions The Heights Petite Shoppe as more than just a retail space. It’s a community hub where creativity, culture, and commerce come together. In addition to the shop, there is an artist-in-residence gallery, Artique, currently hosting Ron Gordon, and a meeting/performance space that promises to host more exciting events and art talks in the future.
The Heights Petite Shoppe is open to the public TuesdaySunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., offering Houstonians the opportunity to explore art, handmade goods, and gourmet products from around the world — all in one charming space. Visitors can expect ongoing workshops, events, and a rotating selection of unique items as the shop continues to grow and evolve.
For more information, visit The Heights Petite Shoppe at 1020 Studewood Street, or follow them on Instagram @ theheightspetitshop for updates on upcoming events and featured artisans.
607 E. Whitney Dr., Houston 77022 (Czechs, Poles, Slovacs & Ukrainians of Houston) Festival will include ethnic foods, singing and dancing,cultural booths, vendors, and more! Information on the web at www.houstonslavicheritagefestival.com
Customers can arrange for a Tootl anytime, day or night, 24/7. Same-day rides, advanced reservations, and arrangements for recurring rides can be requested. There is no application process, no waiting period, and no need for medical authorization.
HOW TO CONNECT
website: ridetootle.com/ houstoncentral call: 833-743-7773 email: houstoncentral@ ridetootl.com
PETITE SHOPPE, from P. 1
Photo by Chris Daigle
Greg Cain shows off his grandfather's book of collectable stamps from the 1930's that made collecting a family affair.
Photo courtesy of Tootl
Tootl Transport is a new Non-Emergency Medical Transportation franchise now serving the Heights/ GOOF area.
The work of Jessica Monroe at The Heights Petite Shoppe
Submitted photos
The Heights Petite Shoppe grand opening
Yvonamor Palix: gallerist and art historian
Tejas Beer announces grand opening of Houston brewery and taproom at former Buffalo Bayou Brewing space
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Houston-based Tejas Beer is holding a Grand Opening Celebration of its newlyupdated brewery and taproom venue in the Sawyer Yards Arts District at 2101 Summer Street in central Houston. Tejas Beer occupies the space formerly held by Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company, which abruptly closed its doors in January of this year. Following a successful soft opening period, Tejas Beer's official grand opening will last all weekend, September 12-14, with a VIP ribbon cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 12, and specials throughout the weekend.
“Tejas Beer has earned a great reputation and dedicated following over the years,” said Carlos de Aldecoa, President and CEO of Gulf Coast Distillers, owner of the Tejas Beer brand. “We are proud to have Tejas serve as the flagship beer brand in my
The Tejas brewery and taproom currently offers an array of beers on tap,
merchandise. The Tejas brewery taproom, located at 2101 Summer Street in the Sawyer Yards District is open daily from Sunday to Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and open until midnight on Friday and Saturday.
“We are bringing to the Houston community the ideal venue for gathering with friends and colleagues in a welcoming atmosphere, with great beer, tasty food, and an amazing view of downtown Houston.” Exclaimed Arturo Reyes, the Director of Business and Sales for Tejas Beer. “It’s a perfect location for a casual lunch, receptions and events for organizations, or catching a ball game on one of our many big screen TVs. We’re here for Houston!”
Tejas Beer is available in over 500 locations, including Houston-area HEB and Kroger grocery stores, Spec’s and Total Wine locations, and other retail establishments.
cream and frozen novelties.
Lazybrook/Timbergrove area, at 1805 W 18th St, Houston, TX 77008. View the menu at donalenatacos. com.
ROLL EM UP TAQUITOS
Roll Em Up Taquitos has opened its first Texas location at 2795 Katy Fwy Unit 150, Houston, TX 77007. Visit rollemup.com to see the menu.
NEW AT M-K-T
Buttermilk Baby is located at 600 N. Shepherd Dr, Ste 250, Houston, TX 77007. Beauty Shop Heights, owned and operated by Ashley Nadon, combines a mix of known-and-loved brands as well as under-theradar independent brands that offer creative, benefitdriven approaches to beauty. Clean beauty brands such as OSEA, Ursa Major, RMS Beauty, Saint Jane Beauty, and Augustinus Bader are among the brands offered. Products are curated to feature the best of each category at all price points from entrylevel to luxury. The shop also features a refill area, where customers can refill products like shampoo and hand wash, reducing waste while having fun. Beauty Shop Heights is located at 600 N. Shepherd Dr., Ste
Buttermilk Baby , the latest concept from restaurant powerhouse Berg Hospitality Group, opened its doors on Sept. 4, celebrating Houston’s newest culinary bundle of joy. Bringing happiness to ice cream fans everywhere, the familyfriendly restaurant – a modern homage to vintage soda fountain ambiance and retro, southern fare – will mark a first-of-its-kind partnership with the iconic Carvel® Ice Cream, the soft serve innovator that revolutionized how Americans experience ice
Photo by Lisa
Buttermilk Baby's interior features a giant
sundae with
spinning cherry on top.
Art Valet: Artists inspired by environment and light
The artists featured here lately have been inspired by their environments. Last week we met Hannah Bladh, who takes inspiration from everyday things from ice cream containers to sliced apples or halloween decor.
The week before we met Jose Canales and his highway muse, the roadside armadillo. Canales’ show is this Thursday evening by the way. San Jacinto College North Gallery, 5800 Unvalued Rd. Houston, TX 77049, on Thursday, Sept. 12, from 6-8 p.m.
I only noticed this trend as I put together this week’s Art Valet. Two solo exhibits happening this week find that the artists draw inspiration from their environments and everyday encounters. A third has the artist themselves as the inspiration.
PABLO CARDOZA
GALLERY: CODY LEDVINA, CRAWFISH LEDVINA(RECENT PAINTINGS)
Pablo Cardoza Gallery (803 William St. #3, 77002) presents a solo exhibition by Houstonbased artist Cody Ledvina, titled Crawfish Ledvina (recent paintings), with an opening reception on Friday, September 13th, from 7–10 p.m.
Ledvina, who also serves as the Archivist at the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, holds an MFA in Painting from the University of Houston and an MA in Archival Studies from University College London. Working with traditional materials, he uses an intuitive process to surprise himself, often entering a meditative state.
Crawfish Ledvina (recent paintings) showcases works created over the past three years, during a period marked by frequent travels to London
Mitch cohen Art Columnist artvalet@gmail.com
and Galveston, visits to churches, Houston restaurants, YouTube ‘documentaries,’ his local bar, the pond in his garden, and inspiration from Jan van Huysum paintings, hospitals, and basketball courts. These everyday interactions naturally merged to shape the paintings on display. Both grand and subtle ideas—spiritual and superficial—emerge through unconventional processes, creating a framework that mirrors Ledvina’s sense of living reality.
Crawfish Ledvina (recent paintings) Friday, September 13th - Sunday, November 24th, 2024
Opening Reception: Friday, Sept. 13, 7-10 p.m.
Gallery Hours: SaturdaySunday, 1–6 p.m., or by appointment Info: pablocardozagallery. com
THE LANECIA ROUSE TINSLEY GALLERY: GARRETT GRIFFIN, ECOLOGIES
The Lanecia Rouse Tinsley Gallery, located in East End Houston, will present Ecologies , a solo exhibition of works by Houston-based artist Garrett Griffin. A reception with the artist will be held Saturday, Sept. 14, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. with musical entertainment from contemporary jazz musician, Corey Sherrard. Houston-based
artist Laura De León will engage in conversation with Griffin about his exhibition at 7 p.m. The exhibition will be on view through Nov. 2, 2024.
“ Ecologies explores the visual language of doorways, arches, mirrors, holes, mountains, appendages, cells, columns, and windows,” Griffin wrote in his artist statement. “The forms speak with distinct materiality and color to communicate various sources of inspiration. The process begins through unlikely sources such as gleaning construction sites, watching a climate change report, or driving by Houston architecture that seems out of place. The sculptures serve as an autobiographical record, mirroring the many places visited and visual oddities absorbed from the isolation of abandoned spaces to my childhood home in Arizona.”
Housed within Holy Family HTX Episcopal Church at 3719 Navigation Boulevard, the gallery’s hours are Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-6
p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.noon. For more information, please follow @lrtgallery on Instagram or visit: holyfamilyhtx.org/the-lrt-gallery.
SOURCES OF LIGHT AT THE SILOS AT SAWYER YARDS
Saturday, Sept. 14, 5-8 p.m.,
The Silos at Sawyer Yards presents Sources of Light, a group exhibition featuring the work of nine Houstonarea artists, each reflecting on their own personal “light” and how it manifests in their art. Traditionally, “Sources of Light” refers to the origin of physical light in a piece of art and its effect on the subject. However, this exhibition shifts the focus to the artists themselves as the source of light, with their inner process illuminating their work and creating connections with the viewer. Sources of Light, was curated by two artists familiar to Art Valet readers, Annette Palmer and Joe Haden. The exhibition showcases a diverse range of mediums, including abstract and tradi-
tional painting, photography, ceramics, metal and found-object sculpture, paper quilling, glass art, and encaustic works.
In their announcement, Palmer and Haden include the following quote that seems to sum up the inspirational theme I noticed today. What do you think?
“A painting is not a picture of an experience, but it is the experience.” – Mark Rothko
Opening Reception: Saturday, Sept. 14, 5-8 p.m. On view through Oct. 12
Location: The Silos at Sawyer Yards, Gallery 200, 1502 Sawyer Street, Houston, TX 77007
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Industrial Form Foam, balsa wood, dowels, rope, dye, and enamel paint 8x5x3.5 in by artist Garrett Griffin.
Submitted photos
The Lanecia Rouse Tinsley Gallery presents Ecologies by artist Garrett Griffin.
Recent art by Cody Ledvina featured at Pablo Cardoza Gallery.