Newly created White Oak District will include restaurants, retail, apartments and more Marquette Companies, a national leader in multifamily development, announces approval from the Houston Planning Commission for its proposed commercial development located along the 2600 block of Keene
Cafe opens Heights location
Street to the south of the city’s popular White Oak Music Hall. Part of the newly developed White Oak District, the approximately 20,000-square-foot commercial space will draw additional restaurants and retail to the area, which is anchored by Tempo at White Oak, a luxury rental building, also from Marquette Companies, nearing completion.
The White Oak District at Keene and Main streets near Houston’s Woodland
Heights neighborhood will be a fourblock by six-block pedestrian-friendly zone. Marquette’s new commercial space is directly across from Tempo and is designed to include bars, restaurants, coffee shops and other retail, creating a vibrant,
SHOW WILL GO
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
In a thrilling turn of events, the Waltrip High School Ram Band will be heading to New Orleans to perform at the 2025 Sugar Bowl after all. The trip, which was abruptly canceled in early September due to safety concerns, was reinstated on September 21, thanks to swift action by Houston Mayor John Whitmire, Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles, and support from the community.
The band had been eagerly fundraising for the prestigious performance when the cancellation came, leaving students, parents, and staff disappointed. However, less than three weeks later, Superintendent Miles announced the reversal in a letter to the school’s Band Booster Leadership, stating that safety
By CHARLIE HARDWICK
On Saturday, Oct. 12, at SPJS Lodge 88 located at 1435 Beall Street, the block will be buzzing with a whole lot of zabava and celebration, as the Lodge host their annual Fall Czechfest. Aaron Rigamonti, a former Lodge board of trustee member, has served as the president of Lodge 88 for the last three years. Rigamonti clarifies that in spite of his Italian name he is, in fact, three quarters Czech, mostly from his mother’s side, whose family originated from Ellinger Texas in Fayette County. Rigamonti explained that the festival was rebranded about five years ago
concerns had been addressed.
“As a proud band dad myself, I want to make sure the Roaring Ram Band can travel to the Sugar Bowl safely,” Miles wrote, adding that HISD Police Department officers will
from The Czech Heritage Festival to its current name, Czechfest.
THE CZECHFEST EVOLUTION
Over the last few years, Czechfest has grown in popularity from just a few hundred attendees to roughly 1,400 festival goers last year. Rigamonti reflects on the festival’s history in that it used to be more of an inner focused gathering for Lodge members that was an annual dance with a traditional Czech meal. However, post pandemic, the Lodge elected to welcome the community in celebrating Czech heritage. The
accompany the students thanks to a generous offer by Mayor Whitmire, and Division Superintendent Riddick assigned Principal Jeanette Cortez
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
As we enter the month of October, American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 560 in Garden Oaks is launching its annual Sock-Tober Plus clothing drive to support veterans in need at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. From now until Oct. 31, ALA Unit 560 is collecting new men’s and women’s socks, T-shirts, and underwear to provide vital clothing essentials for Houston-area veterans.
Donations can be dropped off at the American Legion Post 560, located at 3720 Alba Road in Houston. This annual drive aims to provide much-needed basics for veterans, particularly those facing homelessness or financial hardship, as they often lack access to these essential items.
“Veterans served our country with pride, and now it’s our turn to give back,” said a spokesperson for ALA Unit 560. “These basic clothing items like socks, underwear, and T-shirts are often overlooked, but they’re critical for the health and dignity of veterans, especially those receiving care at the VA Medical Center.”
THE ORIGINS OF SOCK-TOBER
Sock-Tober began in 2011 as a small grassroots initiative by YouTube personality and children’s book author Brad Montague. What started as a simple social media campaign to collect socks for the homeless has grown into a nationwide effort. Each October, communities across the country come together to donate socks and clothing for those in need. Over time, the campaign has expanded to include other clothing essentials like T-shirts and underwear, making it a natural fit for organizations like ALA Unit 560, who are committed to helping veterans.
WHY SOCKS AND BASICS MATTER FOR VETERANS
Socks are one of the most requested but least donated items in shelters, particularly for veterans. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, veterans make up around 7% of the U.S. population but account
Toy
Movie Review: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
The best of two worlds: Hops + opera = HOPERA
Page 8
Dandelion
Waltrip Ram Band marches through downtown Houston in the
Photo of courtesy of Ja’Nee Barton
Members of the Waltrip Ram Band
THE PEOPLE.
Oak Forest Elementary students embrace Chalk Your Walk initiative for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
this September, Oak Forest Elementary (OFE) joined the Chalk Your Walk initiative in partnership with the Kidney Cancer Association (KCA). This effort aims to raise awareness and promote education about childhood cancers, including aggressive kidney cancers, by spreading messages of hope through art.
Kendall Pace Monroe, Chief Advancement Officer of the KCA and mother of two OFE students, expressed her pride in the school’s involvement in this cause.
“I’m so proud of our school for encouraging this effort and am so excited to see our campus full of chalk messages,” Monroe said.
The Chalk Your Walk initiative is an annual month-long campaign that invites communities to create inspirational chalk art in public spaces to raise awareness for childhood cancer. Participants are en-
couraged to share their drawings on social media using the hashtag #ChalkYourWalk and tagging the Kidney Cancer Association. At OFE, more than 900 students from kindergarten through fifth grade partici-
pated by creating chalk messages during their art elective classes. The students also learned about childhood cancer through a special awareness video, helping to foster understanding and empathy. The school’s core values of
empathy and effort are evident in the students’ heartfelt artwork, designed to uplift children undergoing cancer treatment.
“OFE is spreading awareness and helping bring hope to kids facing cancer,” Monroe said, emphasizing the impact of the initiative. “By embracing the power of art and compassion, the students are making a difference.”
The KCA will be sharing these creative works across the country, reaching families and children in treatment with messages of hope and solidarity.
Kidney cancer, especially in children, presents significant challenges. Wilms Tumor and translocation renal cell carcinoma (tRCC) are two common types of pediatric kidney cancer, according to Monroe. These diagnoses can lead to reduced life expectancy and both long- and short-term physical and emotional challenges for young patients.
To learn more about the KCA’s Chalk Your Walk initiative, visit www.chalkyourwalk. org.
COMMUNITY REPORTS
On Oct. 5, Houston Toy Museum will host toy designer Stefanie Eskander as she shares stories from her time designing for Mattel, Fisher Price, Tonka, Hasbro, and more toy industry giants. Eskander’s visit has been rescheduled twice, first due to the derecho that hit Houston on May 16, and the second time due to power outages following Hurricane Beryl. Her appearance, scheduled for October 5, 2024 at 3 p.m., happens to coincide with the museum’s two year anniversary weekend.
With a career spanning. more than four decades, Eskander has worked on many popular toy lines including Rainbow Brite, Popples, Jem,
Cabbage Patch Kids, WWF Wrestling Buddies, and more! Museum guests will learn all about the process of how a toy is developed, from concept to production. Eskander will also share firsthand anecdotes that can be found in her book “Toy Stories: The Secret Life of a Toy Designer”.
Earlier this year, a documentary film about Eskander's career premiered at the Comic Con International Independent Film Festival. WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 3 p.m.
WHERE: Houston Toy Museum, 321 W. 19th St. Suite C The event is recommended for adults and children ages 8 and up. Admission will be $14 for adults and kids pay their age. Guests are encouraged to register in advance at houstontoymuseum.com/events.
Oaks Dads’ Club seeks donations, sponsors for Pony Field renovation
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
The Oaks Dads’ Club is calling on the community for donations and sponsorships to support the renovation of their legendary Pony Field. The club, which serves about 2000 local youngsters through youth sports each year, is driven by the dedication of local parents and volunteers. The ongoing Pony Field renovations have made significant progress but there’s still has much work to complete. Since the launch of the initiative, major improvements have already been achieved, including re-leveling the infield grass and basepaths, rebuilding the pitching mound, reseeding the outfield, and repairing the irrigation system. The roof over the bleachers has been replaced, and outfield fences have been fixed. Work continues on netting replacement, but critical repairs are still needed for the bathrooms, press box, concession
stand, storage room, and the field’s lighting system.
To complete the renovations, Oaks Dads’ Club has set a fundraising goal of $250,000. Generous donors have already contributed at various levels, including corporate sponsors and alumni who remember their glory days on the field. The club is inviting others to become part of this legacy by contributing to the campaign. Community members, businesses, and former players are encouraged to participate by making a donation. Whether it’s recognizing a coach, teammate, or family member, contributors can help ensure the
future of the Pony Field and the positive impact it has on local youth.
For more information or to make a donation, please make checks payable to Oaks Dads Club and send to PO
Box 920937, Houston, TX 77292, Attention: Pony Field Renovation Campaign c/o John Barcelo, President, Oaks Dads’ Club. The Oaks Dads’ Club is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Donations at any level are welcome to help restore and preserve this historic community sports venue. For more information about Oaks Dads’ Club, visit odcsports.com.
expanded festival now includes carnival style games, live music, a variety of food, and a multitude of activities for all ages throughout the day.
DID SOMEONE SAY “POLKA”?
Czechfest has a great lineup of music this year. During the day, festival goers will be entertained by a traditional Czech orchestra, then in the evening the headlining act will be the popular polka musician, the accordion cowboy from Hallettsville, Chris Rybak. One of the most popular accordion players in Texas, Rybak performs on the national and international stage throughout the year, entertaining audiences of all ages with his magnetic personality that comes from his Czech heritage.
FAMILY FUN AND KOLACHES, ANYONE?
The festival has new hours of operation now starting at 10 a.m. and running until 9 p.m. Rigamonti outlines a new schedule of fun to accommodate families with young ones to enjoy early in the day, saving the evening more for adult interests.
Rigamonti says, “We want the early morning hours to be focused on families with kids who want to get out and do something fun before nap time.”
Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., some of the activities for the kids will be carnival style games, bounce houses and a pumpkin patch where the kids can paint a pumpkin. Be sure to look out for the puppet show. Kids, be sure to get your “Czech Passport” to collect a stamp at each game station, then turn it in for a prize!
Starting around 2 p.m., the festival will shift to be more like the Czechfest from the past that will include serving
of a traditional Czech style meal that can be pre-purchased online. The meal will include the Czech standard of pork, sauerkraut and plenty of kolaches. In addition to the Czech meal, the Lodge 88 BBQ committee will be offering pulled pork, sausage and other BBQ treats that festival goers can purchase throughout the day. However, not to worry, the festival will be accentuated with plenty of Kolaches provided by The Kolache Shop and Hruska’s, the popular restaurant from Ellinger, Texas. Festival goers can wash down that tasty food with a variety of beverage options. The Lodge has its own bar and there will be plenty of pilsner, the Czech beer of choice. additionally, other local brews will also be available.
LET’S DANCE!
A new event has been added to the festival this year.
At 5:30 p.m. there will be a Grand March, similar to the kind performed at a Czech wedding whereby festival goers join in a huge line dance in celebration of Czech heritage. The dance will be like
an enormous centipede moving throughout the property. This traditional dance form is exciting and is not to be missed. Additionally, the Czech Folk Dancers will be in attendance performing traditional style dance. The Czech Heritage Museum will be set up with displays and information about Czech history in Texas. A market will be set up in the Lodge featuring Czech and local area merchants who will raffle off a basket of goods worth up to $40, sometime in the afternoon.
“We want Czechfest to be a family oriented festival that is affordable, and a fun way for the community to celebrate our Czech heritage,” Rigamonti said. WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
WHERE: SPJS Lodge 88,
Submitted photo
Rebuilt infield, mound and outfield, and repaired irrigation system at ODC Pony Field.
Submitted photo
Oak Forest Elementary students’ Chalk Your Walk artwork.
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Occupy Wall Street. An Army of One. George W. Bush. You all go Into the Void along with Miley Cyrus, Jay Leno and Miss America. We have seen these once popular people, sayings and causes ad infinitum. They have their 15-minutes of fame, or maybe much longer, then disappear from our radar and go Into the Void. Whatever happened to Newt Gingrich? He was on TV, mostly on Fox News, in an effort to make himself relevant again. Ol’ Newt did succeed in creating one voidism: he made the complimentary title “elite” – like an elite military force or an elite university faculty – into insulting effete, out-of-touch snobs. I once heard him use “elite media” twice in one put-down sentence. Thanks to Newt, the former meaning of elite has gone Into the Void.
Speaking of once-important politicians, remember Kevin McCarthy? He was the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, among the most powerful people in Washington, third in line to the presidency. He was forced into obscurity when he became the first speaker to ever be removed from the role during a legislative ses-
THE TOPICS.
Whatever happened to...?
sion. McCarthy was so hu miliated that he resigned as a member of the House, never to be seen again. Another powerful pol was Houston’s own Tom DeLay. Is he still with us? Some of our former presidents went Into the Void. Lyndon Johnson left the Oval Office under a dark cloud over Vietnam and retreated to his ranch, pretty well ignored by the Democrats. Richard Nixon? Fuggedaboutit. Gerald Ford didn’t re tire to his district in Grand Rapids, Michigan (would you?), but moved to Arizona and played golf. George H.W. Bush came home to Houston, much beloved here, where he and Barbara watched the Aggies and the Astros and did low profile charity work. Incidentally, years ago I wrote that Bush had gone Into the Void because he had disappeared. I got a nice note, with a beautiful panda post stamp, from him in Beijing where he was serving as our top diplomat. Bush said he didn’t feel like he was in the void because he was surrounded by 1 billion people. However, their son, George Junior, lives in Dallas and paints portraits. He is definitely goes Into the Void. The Clintons have been
rified of bombs and death threats. Pope Benedict XVI went into retirement, the first pontiff to do so in 600 years. He’s not exactly a politician, but he was an elected leader so he makes the list.
Closer to home, former Gov. Rick Perry didn’t go back to Paint Creek, (see: Grand Rapids) but lives on a 50-acre lot in Round Top, and was last seen on “Dancing with the Stars.” Former Houston mayors Kathy Whitmire and Annise Parker are MIA. Sylvester Turner wants to be Congressman Turner, so he’s still very much around. In sports, we have extra innings for two of Houston’s Hall of Famers. Nolen Ryan last
played in Houston in 1988, but he remains popular here and is now pitching products on TV. You baseball fans can purchase a Nolan Ryan Texas Rangers 1993 Cooperstown Collection Authentic Jersey for a mere $243.99 knocked down from $324.99. And you can catch Craig Biggio on TV throwing out a commercial or visit Biggio’s Restaurant & Bar. No void for them, but Johnny “Mister Football” Manziel threw himself Into the Void.
One night during a musical performance at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo the star opened his act by saying, “Let’s get this one out of the way.” The song was, “Achy Breaky Heart” and the singer was, of course, one-hit Billy Ray Cyrus. He and his daughter, Miley aka Hannah Montana, were so hot until they weren’t. They join Britney Spears and Justin Bieber in the whatever-happened-to? category. They will soon also be joined by Sean “Diddy” Combs. The longgone field is crowded: Charlie Rose, Bill O’Reilly and his War on Christmas, Dan Rather, Matt Lauer, Rudy Giuliani, Macarena, bell-bottom pants and disco, backyard bomb
shelters, home movie cameras and pencil sharpeners. Wait! The way things are going, we may need those bomb shelters again. Newspapers have been declared dead. I read it in the newspapers. When was the last time you saw a spittoon? That reminds me, when did you last see someone puffing on a pipe? Same for anyone wearing leisure suits. Some good ideas don’t get the publicity they once received, like the League of Nations. More recently #MeToo and Black Lives Matter come to mind. They are still here, just not so much in the spotlight. Into the Void go those breathless news stories about bullying in schools. Disposable diapers are not biodegradable, so there was a drive to do away with them. It didn’t work, but I guess those immortal worries went Into the Void. Whatever happen to the Confederacy? Well, there was Appomattox, but still Rebel statues, schools named for generals and “Dixie” hung on, then they – all together now – went Into the Void. Yes, we go through once-popular people, movements and even good ideas like a box of Kleenex. Now
we must wonder who or what is next? Will Elon Musk be tossed into the dust bin of history? Are the tea party, MAGA and AI just passing fads? Will our student protesters ever go back to class or will they join Tucker Carlson in the Void? The WNBA is big right now, but when Catlin Clark and Brittney Griner retire, or visit Russia, will women’s basketball still bring in the fans and TV ratings? We must hope COVID-19 with its social distancing, anti-vax knuckledraggers and “Hang Fauci”
Solid Waste Management announces completion of second pass for Hurricane Beryl debris collection
Last weekend, the City of Houston's Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) completed its second pass collection of storm debris, marking a crucial milestone in the city's recovery following Hurricane Beryl. The storm that swept through Houston on July 8 left over 3 million cubic yards of debris. The second pass, which concluded on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, ensured that the remaining debris is cleared, leaving no areas overlooked. Hurricane Beryl occurred shortly after the May 16 Derecho windstorm and caused widespread damage throughout the city; compounding the volume of storm debris left behind in neighborhoods throughout the city.
Over 1.7 million cubic yards of debris were removed during the initial recovery phase. The second pass, which began on September 2, focused on collecting any remaining storm debris left from the first pass.
Hurricane Beryl came with debris cleanup already underway. Despite these challenges, SWMD crews and contractors have worked to quickly re-
cover from both storms, collecting over 4.7 million cubic yards.
“Houston has faced many challenges in recent months, from the Kingwood flood, Derecho windstorm to Hurricane Beryl, but time and again, our community has proven its resilience," said Mark Wilfalk, Director of the Solid Waste Management Department. "Our teams have worked efficiently and safely to ensure every affected neighborhood received adequate debris removal services. We are proud of the progress we’ve made, and we deeply appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we bring this process to a close.” With the conclusion of storm debris collection, SWMD will transition back to its routine heavy trash collection schedule. Storm debris is also accepted at your neighborhood drop-off centers, which will return to regular operating hours, open Tuesday – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please download the department’s mobile app, HTX Collects, for a list of drop-off locations, timely updates and reminders.
as an additional chaperone.
“It’s an honor for our band to show off the talents of HISD’s amazing students on such a special occasion.”
Assistant Band Director
Jeremy Diggs shared his excitement, though he acknowledged the logistical challenges that arose from the cancellation. Band leaders had to wait and see if the group would be able to get back into the hotel rooms they were forced to cancel. Then, the great news earlier this week:
“We have resecured our spot in the parade and are moving 100% forward with the trip,” Diggs said. The reinstatement of the
from P. 1
proximity to outdoor activities and convenience to downtown Houston.”
trip has reignited excitement among students and parents alike, but there’s still one significant hurdle to overcome: fundraising. The band is now working against the clock, with an October 15 deadline to ensure all students can afford to attend the trip.
“We just need the community’s support to make sure no student is left behind because of lack of funds,” Diggs said.
Band parent Ja’Nee Barton is relieved the trip is back on. Her son, Gabriel Perez, is a first-chair jazz ensemble member, class of 2025 trumpet player. Barton said he
Located at 2623 Keene St., and welcoming its first residents later this year, Tempo at White Oak will feature its own street-level retail, including four “live-work” floor plans for entrepreneurs who operate a business from their residence. The 304-unit, six-story rental community will be one of the few to offer livework spaces in Houston, which is among the leaders in small business growth across major metropolitan areas nationwide.
has been working tirelessly in preparation for the trip to the Sugar Bowl.
“There has been all this uncertainty about this trip. When the trip was canceled,
I was so disappointed for our students and families,” Barton said. “I’m grateful that we are allowed to go. Now we need to move forward and raise more funds. So grateful my son gets
to perform.”
The Waltrip Ram Band’s performance at the Sugar Bowl is set to be a once-ina-lifetime experience for its members, said Diggs, who recalls his own band trip to New Orleans 20 years ago.
“New Orleans was a great trip for me when I was in the Ram Band, and twenty years later, I know it’ll be a once-ina-lifetime experience for the current Ram Band!”
The band is now calling on the community for support to ensure every student can make the trip. Donations can be made through the Band Booster’s GoFundMe page, and checks can be mailed directly to the school.
HOW TO SUPPORT THE WALTRIP RAM BAND:
• GoFundMe: Waltrip Ram Band Booster GoFundMe
• Checks: Made payable to “Waltrip Ram Band Booster, Inc” and mailed to 1900 W. 34th Street, Houston, TX 77018, Attention: Waltrip Band Booster
With the trip back on track, the Waltrip Ram Band is ready to represent Houston at the 2025 Sugar Bowl and showcase the talents of its dedicated students. As Superintendent Miles said, “I look forward to tuning in live to see the Roaring Ram Band in action on January 1st.”
Marquette recently completed two other rental developments in the Houston area, Catalyst Houston and Forth at
The White Oak District is a short walk from the Quitman/ Near Northside station on Houston’s METRORail Red Line, with only one stop to downtown, easily connecting residents to the Medical Center area, NRG Stadium and other attractions.
Navigation, as well as acquired and renovated East End Lofts. In 2023, the firm broke ground on The Sylvan, a new build-torent (BTR) community featuring 300 single-family homes, townhomes and apartments in The Woodlands, a master-planned community of over 100,000 residents located 25 minutes from downtown Houston.
SOCK-TOBER, from P. 1
for over 11% of the homeless population. Many veterans struggle with housing insecurity, and proper clothing is a critical but often unmet need.
Socks, underwear, and T-shirts play an essential role in maintaining personal hygiene and preventing common health issues like foot infections, particularly for those who spend time on their feet or outdoors. Clean, dry socks are often in short supply at hospitals and shelters, and
providing these basics can greatly improve the quality of life for veterans in need.
HOW YOU CAN HELP Donations are being accepted now through Oct. 31, and all contributions are appreciated. Whether it’s a pack of new socks or a few T-shirts, each item helps veterans. For more information on how to contribute, or to inquire about other ways to support local veterans, contact the American Legion Post 560 at 713-682-9287 or follow them on Facebook.
Photo courtesy of Ja’Nee Barton
Band members hard at work in the Waltrip High School gym.
Photo courtesy of Ram Band leadership
The Waltrip Ram Band at Region
Stadium in October 2023.
you possibly revisit the past without being pretentious and jaded? It seems like it’s an impossible task, a type of paradox almost. If that’s true, then Beetlejuice Beetlejuice finally cracks the code. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is the sequel to the 1988 classic Beetlejuice, directed by the iconic Tim Burton. Burton’s been on quite a hot streak lately, mainly with his Netflix series Wednesday, which released to critical and commercial acclaim. Tim Burton deciding to cast Jenna Ortega, the aforementioned Wednesday star, in this film built up the hype to not only be a Beetlejuice successor but a Wednesday one as well. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is definitely a Tim Burton film. Everything about it just oozes the whimsical horror Burton’s become known for, even more than the first film. Burton has perfected his style, down to a formula, and for the most part, it works! Every conversation feels slightly wrong; you can feel Beetlejuice’s presence even when he’s not on screen, which
Elliott StEwart Youth
makes his eventual reveal even more satisfying. However, after his reveal, Beetlejuice’s cracks begin to show.
Beetlejuice, being the title character of the franchise, is one of the main selling points of why people would see this film. With that, Beetlejuice doesn’t do much. He does have a small plotline revolving around his exwife, but this barely affects the
‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ is a wonderful mess
main characters. In the original, he served a vital role in introducing us to this new world. Now, there is no new world to explore, and Beetlejuice’s purpose has been diminished. Unlike with Beetlejuice, the other plotlines do evolve in the characters naturally. The main story involves a corrupt wedding between a character from the first film and that character’s daughter being tricked into the afterlife by a psychotic spirit. The way the plotline slowly escalates is very entertaining to watch. Things do get really fun once the characters enter the afterlife, but they don’t stay long. The characters only spend
around 5 minutes exploring the afterlife before they ‘defeat’ the evil spirit. Then they hang around and do nothing for a little bit before Beetlejuice inevitably shows up and they have to stop him. The things that happen are interesting, but the execution doesn’t feel special. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a film with excellent writing, excellent sets, and excellent directing that is severely brought down by its dull storyline. Burton injects his usual whimsical style while refusing to make even a slight change to it. Overall, I enjoyed this film, but the plotline results in it feeling more like an epilogue to the original film rather than a sequel. If you’d like to give this film a shot, it’s in theaters now! Happy early Halloween!
Elliott Stewart is a Heightsbased youth movie critic who hopes to direct movies himself when he grows up. In the meantime, he watches, analyzes, and critiques movie classics as well as current cinema releases.
Elliot’s parents occasionally allow him to watch and critique R-rated films under their supervision. Find out more about Elliott https://tinyurl. com/yeynbpjy.
Public Utility Commission of Texas to host workshop on utility's hurricane preparedness and storm response
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) will host a workshop in Houston, Texas, on electric utilities’ preparation for, and response to, recent severe storms, including the May 2024 derecho and Hurricane Beryl. All five PUCT Commissioners will attend and hear comments from the public and invited experts.
“The Commission is coming to Houston so we can hear directly from the people who experienced these devastating storms first-hand,” PUCT Chairman Thomas Gleeson said. “Their experiences and perspectives will be critical to us as we assess what went wrong during recent storms and what needs improvement to ensure the electric infrastructure can weather these disasters.”
The workshop is open to the public, and Texans affected by recent storms are invited to attend and share their experiences. Registration is not required. WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, at 9 a.m.
WHERE: Harris County Department of Education, Ronald Reagan Building, 5th Floor Conference Center -6300 Irvington Blvd, Houston, Texas, 77022
The PUCT is also accepting public comments about utility preparedness and response to the recent storms through a public form available on the PUCT homepage. In July, the PUCT opened an investigation into the emergency preparedness and extreme weather response of utilities in the Greater Houston region. For more information or to accessl public documents associated with the ongoing investigation, visit puc.texas.gov.
Art Valet: Market Square Park Farmers Market returns with art
There is something about outdoor markets that call up our collective primal memories. The smell of food, the sounds of children playing, bargaining for goods while musicians perform nearby and there is always singing and dancing. Add the sounds of a bustling downtown metropolis, a fenced dog park, covered picnic area, games on the lawn and you just might be at Downtown Houston’s Market Square Park Farmers Market. Downtown Houston recently welcomed back the Market Square Park Farmers Market in collaboration with Central City Co-Op— Houston’s oldest organic, sustainable food co-op. The market takes place Saturdays, September 7 – November 16, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., at Market Square Park, located at 301 Milam Street.
Central City Co-Op has a storefront located right in the middle of the Heights too, 2515 Harvard St Houston TX 77008. For details and hours visit www.centralcityco-op.com. Located in the heart of
Mitch cohEn
Art Columnist artvalet@gmail.com
Houston’s Historic District, Market Square was the site of the original City Hall. For nearly 200 years (no one in Houston says that, ever) Market Square has been a focal point of events in Houston. At the Market Square Park Farmers Market, visitors will find seasonally fresh and affordable fruits, vegetables, meat proteins and prepared foods, as well as other household goods from local growers and makers. To celebrate the fall season, this year’s Farmers Market will include a series of fun and educational programming, including vendor demonstrations, DIY projects, live music, and more.
On September 28, October 26, and November 16, don’t miss the Farmers Market Block Party, featuring a series of arts-and-crafts pop-up shows with yours truly here. Then on October 12 celebrate National Farmers Day. Ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday on November 16, join Downtown Houston+ for the final fall market to celebrate a season of community gatherings and fresh offerings. For the last market of the spring season, I was invited to bring out a group of artists and creatives as part of the festivities. One block of Preston St., south of the park was closed for the artists to pitch their tents. We are back for this season too starting this Saturday, September 28 and continuing October 26 and November 16.
I may joke that they had me at “street closure” but honestly it’s quite an honor to be included with these events. The mix of art and creatives with farmers and makers is what always brings a traditional market together.
Downtown Houston+ stewards the vision of Downtown as a center of global commerce and local culture and Houston’s heart for opportunity, excitement, and joy. Its family of aligned entities — Central Houston Inc., Houston Downtown Management District and Downtown Redevelopment Authority — collectively advance a shared mission to champion and enhance Downtown Houston as a connected and thriving place for everyone. For more information, visit downtownhouston.org.
I got a tip from Ed Amash after reading last week’s column. Amash runs the weekly showcases at Kojak’s Fine Foods,1812 W. 18th St. 77008. We’re going to talk soon but I didn’t want you to miss performances before then. See what’s coming up at Kojakshouston.com/events. Keep the tips coming y’all!
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Dandelion Café opens location in Houston Heights
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The all-day breakfast spot, Dandelion Café, has opened its third and largest location yet in the historic Heights Clock Tower at 611 W. 22nd St. in Houston Heights. This marks another exciting chapter for the café, known for its famous chicken and waffles, which gained national recognition on Good Morning America’s “United States of Breakfast.”
Founded by Sarah Lieberman in 2016, Dandelion Café has grown from a simple coffee shop in Bellaire into a full-fledged restaurant offering elevated breakfast and lunch options, as well as high-end coffee. Lieberman’s commitment to the community during tough times, including the pandem-
HOPERA
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
Houston’s innovative opera company, HOPERA, is changing the way locals experience classical music by combining it with their favorite craft drinks. Led by founder Megan Berti, HOPERA delivers highquality, casual performances that break the mold of traditional opera, bringing live music to Houston’s beloved craft beverage venues. Their mission? To show that opera can be fun, accessible, and enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere.
Since its inception, HOPERA has partnered with local breweries and distilleries to host events that draw in audiences who may not typically attend an opera. The company’s “Pint-Sized Performances” offer intimate musical evenings at local hotspots like Eureka Heights and Saint Arnold Brewing Company, where guests can enjoy an operatic performance
while sipping their favorite beverage.
“We believe that opera is for everyone, and there’s an opera for everyone,” says Berti. “It’s our job to show Houston that opera doesn’t fit into a tiny stuffy box.” HOPERAs shows are always performed in the local language and are fresh, creative, one-of-a-kind productions.
HOPERA was recently one of 39 recipients awarded a grant from the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and the Houston Arts Alliance’s competitive program “Let Creativity Happen,” which furthers individuals and nonprofit organizations that amplify creativity and innovation in the City of Houston.
“We are thrilled and honored to receive the Let Creativity Happen grant from the Houston Arts Alliance,” says Berti. “This support enables us to bring our upcoming Pint-Sized Performances to life at Eureka Heights and Saint Arnold Brewing Company, keeping
ic and the Houston freeze, earned the café a special place in the hearts of locals. Lieberman credits much of her success to SCORE, the nation’s largest network
of volunteer business mentors. SCORE helped her develop a business plan, secure financing, and find the ideal location for her first café. Now, with the opening of the
opera accessible and engaging. With this grant, we can continue our mission of blending classical music with modern experiences, reaching new audiences in unique and unexpected ways while highlighting local artists.”
HOPERA’s recent PintSized Performance, Boleros & Arias, celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant set of songs by Latin American composers such as María Grever and Agustín Lara. Featuring performances by mezzo-soprano Luisana
Rivas and bass-baritone Fernando Grimaldo, the show was an exciting fusion of classical and Latin music. In addition to Pint-Sized Performances, HOPERA is preparing for a groundbreaking production of the contemporary chamber opera, As One, which will be presented this fall in collaboration with the Montrose Center. As One, created by Laura Kaminsky with a libretto by Mark Campbell and Kimberly Reed, explores the journey of a transgender indi-
Houston Heights location, Dandelion Café continues its upward trajectory.
SCORE, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, has been pivotal in supporting small business owners like Lieberman through free mentorship and resources.
To mark this milestone, SCORE is hosting a series of nationwide pitch competitions, giving entrepreneurs the chance to win a $20,000 grand prize and national exposure. The next and last competition will be held in Houston on Oct. 3.
“With the help of SCORE’s industry professionals, we were able to fine-tune the business plan and financial
vidual toward self-discovery. Two singers will share the role of the protagonist, Hannah, in this deeply moving work. “The Montrose Center is proud to partner with HOPERA on a groundbreaking work like As One,” says Avery Belyeu, CEO of the Montrose Center. “Music and art are powerful connectors, and we hope this collaboration brings people
planning, structure operations more efficiently, and absorb helpful information for navigating leasing negotiations,” said Lieberman, co-owner of Dandelion Cafe. “SCORE helped us get on our feet in our early years, and we are grateful for the programming and guidance that gave us the knowledge and empowerment to build a solid business foundation that has allowed us to scale to now three locations in Houston.” For more information about Dandelion Café or SCORE’s pitch competitions, visit their websites. To see the menu at Dandelion Cafe, visit dandelionhouston.com.
Photos by Edigio Narvaez, courtesy of Downtown Houston+ Market Square Park Farmers Market
Dandelion Cafe has a new location in The Heights.
Photos by Becca Wright Co-owners Sarah Lieberman and Executive chef JC Ricks.
brings opera and craft drinks together with pint-sized performances
Photo courtesy of Philip Ethridge
Audience members attend a HOPERA performance at Eureka Heights
