For Life Animal Shelter will host its highly anticipated Studio Fifty-Fur Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston. From 7-11 p.m., attendees will gather to celebrate the Heightsbased shelter’s ongoing commitment to saving animals in need, all while
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
In the vibrant and quirky Heights neighborhood, there are few characters as beloved as Phil “Tan Man” Brayton. Known for his signature look—a sports coat with no shirt underneath—Brayton is a local icon, regularly spotted at Houston’s biggest events, from White Linen Night to the Texas Renaissance Festival, and Lights In The Heights. His tanned, muscular physique and ever-present smile make him instantly recognizable, and his joyful personality is just as memorable as his unique wardrobe choice.
Brayton’s now-famous style began in 1982, inspired by a Don Johnson look in the hit TV show Miami Vice. In one particular episode, Johnson’s character swapped his usual T-shirt and sports coat combo for just the coat, and Brayton, a former bodybuilder, thought, “I can pull that off.” From that moment on, the “shirtless blazer” became Brayton’s go-to look. “I’ve never looked back,” he says, laughing. But Brayton is more than just a bold fashion statement. He’s a fixture at many Houston events, bringing positivity and fun wherever he goes.
Whether attending the Houston Rodeo, taking a Carnival Cruise, or making an appearance at St. Arnold’s Brewery, Brayton’s big personality matches his 6’5”, 325-pound frame. His presence has made him a fan favorite at local festivals like the Greek Festival, Italian Festival, and Dickens On The Strand.
One of Brayton’s most notable appearances occurred at the First Saturday Arts Market (FSAM) on 19th Street in the Heights. Market director and The Leader’s Art Valet writer Mitch Cohen recalls the day he first noticed Brayton walking around the market.
“Here comes this tall, tan guy in a sports coat with no shirt, and I thought, ‘Who is this?’” Cohen’s curiosity led him to post an inquiry on social media, “Does anybody know this tan man?”
The nickname stuck, and Brayton
By CHARLIE HARDWICK
enjoying an evening of music, food, and community spirit. This year’s fundraising goal is an ambitious $300,000, which will help Friends For Life continue its groundbreaking work in animal welfare.
Founded in 2002, Friends For Life has long been recognized for its innovative, community-based services that no other shelter in Houston offers. The shelter prides itself on
taking in animals that often require medical treatment or behavioral rehabilitation, giving them a second chance at life through the dedicated efforts of staff, fosters, and volunteers. This year’s gala promises to showcase the incredible stories of animals who have overcome the odds, thanks to the shelter’s tireless work.
The evening’s theme, Studio FiftyFur, is a nod to the iconic disco era,
fully embraced his new moniker, even though he was initially puzzled by it.
“People kept saying, ‘There’s the Tan Man,’ and I was thinking, ‘Who are they talking about?’” he jokes.
Cohen and Brayton became fast friends after that encounter, bonding over Brayton’s cheerful outlook on life.
“He’s a mood booster,” says Cohen. “He always has a kind word to say, no matter the situation.” In fact, one
premier event will feature an oyster shooter bar, craft cocktails, a virtual reality experience, live music and much more. This year’s presenting sponsor is SheSpace, a Heights-based work and
FSAM event saw Cohen and others playfully paying homage to Brayton by donning bare-chested, white blazer T-shirts, much to the Tan Man’s delight.
Brayton, however, is quick to point out that his upbeat persona serves a deeper purpose. A former funeral industry professional who worked for Service Corporation International,
with a playful twist that reflects the shelter’s lively and innovative approach to animal rescue. Guests will enjoy an evening of dancing, live entertainment, and a silent auction, all in support of the shelter’s vital mission.
“Attending the Friends For Life Studio Fifty-Fur Gala is more than
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
Heights High School senior Enrique Araiza has taken his passion for architecture and design to new heights— literally. As part of his International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) requirement, Araiza recently completed a unique project called Wing-It Habitats, where he designed and built birdhouses for his local community. Araiza, who aspires to become an architectural or civil engineer, was determined to find a way to blend his love for drawing and design with a hands-on experience.
“I wanted to create something that was both beneficial to the environment and visually appealing,” said Araiza, explaining the inspiration behind his project. He decided to focus on birdhouses that would not only serve local wildlife but also enhance the aesthetic of his neighborhood parks. “I was able to be as detailed as possible to construct beautiful birdhouses for not just our flying friends, but for the bird watchers and park goers in the Heights community.” The project began with Araiza drawing on the architectural styles of homes in his neighborhood, aiming to incorporate those designs into his birdhouses.
meeting place where business women gather to find community, amplify ambition and propel their dreams forward.
Excited to be back as a cosponsor, SheSpace founder Katie Tsuru explains, “Shuck Cancer is a remarkable event that showcases Houston’s exceptional cuisine, lively entertainment, and emerging leaders while raising crucial awareness about the growing impact of cancer on people of all ages. We couldn’t be prouder
Photo courtesy of HHA
senior Enrique Araiza
THE PEOPLE.
Houston Arboretum hosts Fall Plant Sale Friday & Saturday, Oct. 11-12
REPORTS
COMMUNITY
WHAT: Calling all gar-
deners: Fall is one of the best times to garden in Houston, so come on out to the Houston Arboretum’s Fall Plant Sale. A variety of Texas natives will be featured, including perennial and annual wildflowers (including milkweed), grasses, shrubs and trees. These plants are perfect for attracting butterflies, bees and other pollinators to your yard or garden while helping to conserve water, reduce mowing, protect the soil and save money on fertilizer and pesticides.
Some of the plants offered this year include American Beautyberry, Rattlesnake Master, Prairie Blazingstar, Green Milkweed, and Texas Lantana. All proceeds from the Plant Sale benefit the Arboretum’s conservation and education efforts.
WHO: The Houston Arboretum holds plant sales in both fall and spring. Arboretum members receive discounts on all plant purchases.
WHERE: 120 West Loop North, Houston, 77024 (between Post Oak Blvd. and
Woodway Drive)
Note: The Plant Sale will be located just inside the Arboretum’s 610 Entrance gate on the south side of the entrance road. (The Arboretum has two entrances – Loop 610 and Woodway Drive.) Shoppers are asked to park along the 610 Parking Loop and then walk over to the sale. There will be a small pull-in area to load plant purchases.
COST: Admission to the Fall Plant Sale is free; all are welcome. Parking is $6 and free for Arboretum members using their parking code. Plant
prices are as follows: $4.50 – 4 inches; $14 – 1 gallon; $16 –Milkweed; $20 – 2 gallon and $30 – 3 to 5 gallons.
MORE: Guests are encouraged to arrive early for best selection. If you have a cart or wagon, bring one to help transport your plants. There will be a limited number of carts available for use. For more information about the Fall Plant Sale go to www.houstonarboretum.org/ event/fall-plant-sale/. To join the Arboretum and enjoy all the benefits of membership, visit houstonarboretum.org or call 713-681-8433.
just a night of celebration, it’s an opportunity to be a part of something truly lifechanging. Your presence and support will directly impact the lives of animals in need, helping them find loving homes and receive the care they deserve,” says Louie Matta, marketing communications manager at Friends For Life.
The event is chaired by Robert Fisher, the practice manager at Garden Oaks Veterinary Clinic, who has long been a vocal advocate for animal welfare in Houston. In addition to being a rescuer and advocate, Fisher is also a member of the Crime Stoppers Animal Cruelty Task Force, making him an ideal leader for this special evening.
This year, Friends For Life will honor Lesa Skipper, a Certified EOS Implementer®️ who has played a pivotal role in transforming the shelter’s internal operations. Skipper helped introduce the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), which has enabled Friends For Life to grow and evolve as an organization. Her support and guidance have been essential in helping the shelter flex its structure to accommodate the increasing demands of its life-saving programs.
The funds raised at the gala will support a wide range of Friends For Life’s innovative programs, including Fix Houston™, a program aimed at stabilizing community cat populations,
disabilities or profound deafness. Each child has an individual wish list. Funded by Be An Angel, the Holiday Gift Program began over 38 years ago so that these children can experience the joy of receiving gifts during the Christmas season.
The Be An Angel Holiday Gift Program relies on volunteers to shop for each child based on their individual wish list. One of the Houston area shopping events will take place on Nov. 11, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at WalMart, 111 Yale St., Houston, TX 77007. A hundred volunteers are needed for this event. Interested individuals or groups can sign up to volunteer by calling 281-2193313 or emailing Margaret@ BeAnAngel.org. For more information, visit beanangel.org.
and STEP™, a behavior training initiative that has trained 25% of Houston’s Certified Professional Dog Trainers. Friends For Life is also known for its pioneering software, Friendr™, which helps match long-stay animals with adopters. These efforts, alongside the shelter’s dedication to training and mentoring shelters worldwide, have saved countless animals that other programs deemed unsavable.
Tickets for the Studio FiftyFur Gala are now available online through Friends For Life’s website at https://friends4life. org/gala, where guests can also learn more about the evening’s activities, as well as opportunities to contribute through sponsorships and silent auction donations.
OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
In addition to the Studio Fifty-Fur Gala, Friends For Life will be participating in the 2025 Chevron Houston Marathon weekend on Jan. 18-19, 2025. Join the Friends For Life running team and #RunForaReason to sup-
port life-saving animal care. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, your participation will make a significant impact on the lives of animals in need. More details about the event can be found at https:// friends4life.org/marathon. MORE WAYS TO SHOW SUPPORT
Friends For Life Animal Shelter is always in need of volunteers, fosters, and loving families to adopt a “friend for life.” Located at 107 E. 22nd St., the shelter is committed to providing compassionate care and finding forever homes for Houston’s animals. Whether you want to help by fostering pets in need, volunteering your time, or adopting a furry companion, there are countless ways to get involved. Be sure to check out their event calendar for fun upcoming activities like Hoppy Halloween, Disco Dance Lessons, and Barktoberfest, where you can support the shelter while having a great time. For more information, please visit https://friends4life.org.
Photo courtesy of the Houston Arboretum
Many of the plants offered at the Houston Arboretum Fall Plant Sale will help attract birds, bees and butterflies.
Early detection is the best protection: Free breast cancer screenings
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Taking action today can save lives tomorrow!
This October, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) encourages community members to take charge of their health by focusing on early detection and prevention.
To promote early detection, HCPH is offering free breast cancer screenings throughout the month. Screenings will be available at various HCPH Health Services locations.
YOUR LOCATION:
• Harris County Public Health Antoine Clinic
• 5815 Antoine Dr, Houston, TX 77091
• Clinical Appointments: Call 832-927-7350
In addition to screenings, HCPH will host a National Breast Cancer Awareness Month webinar on Oct. 15 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. This free webinar will provide important information on breast cancer risk factors, prevention, and early detection strategies. Register today at bit. ly/BCAwarenessWebinar24.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer remains the second most common cancer affecting women in the United States. Breast cancer is a significant health concern, affecting one in eight women in the U.S. and 2.3 million women worldwide each year. Black women have a significantly higher breast cancer death rate than white women.
Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 50 and older, but younger women can also be affected. While breast cancer is much more common in women, it also affects men. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 2,710 American men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and around 530 are expected to die from the disease. Unfortunately, a lack of awareness and stigma can be barriers to detection and care for men, trans men, and non-binary people, some of whom prefer to refer to it as
chest cancer.
Everyone should know the risk factors and symptoms of breast cancer, no matter their gender. People can show different signs of breast cancer, and some might not have any symptoms at all. Women should watch for these warning signs:
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast
Pain in any part of the breast
• Nipple discharge that isn’t breast milk (including blood)
A new lump in the breast or underarm Men should also be aware
of these signs:
A lump or swelling in the chest
• Red or flaky skin on the chest
• Dimpling or irritation of the chest skin
Nipple discharge
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area
These symptoms can occur due to other conditions besides cancer. If you notice any symptoms or changes, you must see your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.
Mammograms, which are
X-rays of the breast or chest, are the best way to detect breast cancer early. Getting regular mammograms can significantly lower the chance of dying from breast cancer. Clinical breast exams and self-exams can also help find problems early.
HCPH provides low-cost or free health services to Harris County residents, including check-ups, breast exams, and mammogram referrals. Call (832) 927-7350 to schedule your screening and take a step in the fight against breast cancer.
the world’s largest funeral company, Brayton spent years surrounded by grief and sadness.
“I’m around sadness all day long,” Brayton explains. “When I’m done, I want to do something happy.” His appearances at local events are his way of spreading joy and lifting people’s spirits.
Despite his high-energy, funloving public persona, Brayton is also a dedicated family man. He raised three sons on his own, all of whom attended the University of Houston and became engineers. Now a proud grandfather, Brayton regularly attends Comic-Con events with his grandsons, continuing to nurture a love for fun and creativity in the next generation.
As Halloween approaches, you can find Brayton near his home, continuing his tradition
of spreading cheer, this time as a festive “undertaker.”
He’ll be pushing a coffin and handing out beers to adults in the neighborhood—an example of his unique way of making every event a little more enjoyable for everyone involved.
From his bold fashion choices to his big heart, Phil “Tan Man” Brayton is a oneof-a-kind Heights personality who has become a symbol of fun, positivity, and community in Houston. Whether he’s at the Texas Renaissance Festival or just hanging out at the First Saturday Arts Market, Brayton is always ready to share a laugh, take a photo, and make someone’s day a little brighter. And in a world that often feels overwhelming, that’s a gift worth celebrating. You can follow Phil, Tan Man, Brayton on one of his Facebook pages, Phil Brayton, or Tan Man.
With the help of his father, he learned to work with tools like a table saw, electric sander, and drill for the first time.
Three of the custom birdhouses have since been installed in local parks. Emily Guyre, executive director of the Houston Heights Association, expressed her appreciation for Araiza’s work, saying, “The HHA was fortunate to partner with him and benefit from the birdhouses
that he designed and built. Three have been installed at Marmion Park, and the final birdhouse will call Donovan Park home.”
Araiza said he is thankful to the Houston Heights Association for their support and the opportunity to contribute creatively to his neighborhood. His Wing-It Habitats project shows how young people in the Heights are using their skills to make a positive impact on their community, one birdhouse at a time.
TAN MAN, from P. 1
BIRDHOUSE, from P. 1
Submitted photo
Brayton the family man.
Photos courtesy of HHA
Araiza’s birdhouses are designed to not offer functional shelter for feathered friends, but also brighten the day of park goers.
Submitted photo
Brayton at the Texas Ren Fest where he is one of the first characters you meet when entering.
Three of Araiza’s birdhouses have been installed at Marmion Park, while a fourth is awaiting its new home at Donovan Park.
From left to right: Mitch Cohen, Phil Brayton, Steve Sellers, and Mike Baker. A few years ago, the group surprised Tan Man Brayton at a First Saturday Arts Market with T-shirts designed by Baker.
THE RESTAURANT –
What’s on the menu? Yak fat, filet of python and ox colon, well done or burnt? Maybe I should not have selected a Mongolian-Congolese restaurant for dinner. But in the Houston area we do have a massive number of choices, and this is due to both our unique location and our army of immigrants, some of whom are legal. In Harris County, more than 1 million residents – that’s one in four people — were born in a foreign country. As of 2022, almost 30 percent of Fort Bend County residents were foreign born, more than twice the national average. (Incidentally, by 2050 Fort Bend County is projected to become 40 percent Asian.) As of 2021, the 9-county Houston region was home to an estimated 1.7 million foreign-born residents – again, almost a quarter of our total population -- and that number increases with every bus from Matamoras and every plane from Kyev.
OK, we get the picture, lots of foreign-born folks here. They quickly learn to say “Howdy,” “Sit rat cheer” and “How ‘bout dim Choke Astros?” According to Donald Trump, they are mostly murderers, rapists and terror-
THE TOPICS.
The Lone Star plate
ists, but they also establish their own eateries. There are 10,000 restaurants in the Houston area, represent ing cuisine from more than 70 countries. I don’t think this number includes those convenience stores with hot dogs slowly turning in a glass box which have been there since Christmas. Yelp lists only the top 10 best Nigerian restaurants in the Houston area. I don’t know how many bad ones there are, but we have plenty of both because greater Houston has the larg est Nigerian expatriate population in the nation – more than 150,000. My favorite Ukrainian café was invaded by its next-door neighbor, Moscow Mortars & Mayhem. You want seafood? You can get shrimp tacos, red snapper with guacamole, and a campechana cocktail. It’s not called the Gulf of Mexico for nothing, and it’s right down I-45.
Beyond the passport parade, we have many – like hundreds of thousands – new Texans from the lesser 49. They bring with them a delightful deluge of dining: New England clam chowder, Southern fried South, California vegans. After Katrina, 250,000 Cajuns fled here and thousands stayed.
culinary feast here. It is my theory that we are lucky in our geography -- our location. The Houston region is uniquely located in a multi-cross of kitchens. To the east we have southern Louisiana, Cajun country with Houston’s historical sister city, New Orleans. Remember Brennan’s started there. Today we have a choice of many Louisianathemed restaurants and even other eateries often have shrimp, crab and all kinds of Cajun-flavored dishes. They are always, fresh and favorable. Within a 5-minute drive from my house I have three really fine Tex-Mex restaurants, and if I want to go, say, 6 minutes farther I have three more.
It’s because of our nearness to Mexico. Oh sure, you can buy enchiladas and chili in New York City, prepared by Italian chefs who pour tomato sauce on the chips. But here we have real Tejanos who know how to whip up the perfect platter of tamales, refried beans washed down by a chilled margarita. This being Texas, out west we have steaks. You desire the real T-bone or filet cooked with skill and care? Come here. From the Valley we get some of the world’s finest tomatoes, lettuce and other produce. Across the fruited plains of Texas we grow corn, beans and such, trucked in the day they were harvested. Don’t forget Texas wines, some of which are drinkable.
We now come to an unlikely aficionado (I got that from a Swedish menu) of our plethora of plenty: Boris Yeltsin. This story is worth telling again. On Sept. 17, 1989, Yeltsin arrived in Houston during his first visit to America. At the time, he was in political limbo, powerless after having been fired as Communist Party boss of Moscow.
Yeltsin toured the Johnson Space Center and was on his way back to Ellington Air Force Base when he decided to visit an American store.
In his travels, Yeltsin did that a lot – suddenly altering his schedule to pop in for a visit. His entourage stopped at a shopping center, possibly because there was a liquor store nearby – Boris was a lush. He entered a Randall’s supermarket.
Except that he had arrived unscheduled, the veteran Communist pol might have thought it was a setup deal to impress him, a Potemkin village. For 20 minutes he wandered the aisles, and commented, “Even the Politburo doesn’t have this kind of choice. Not even Mr. Gorbachev.” He stopped shoppers to ask about the food they had selected and their cost. Then he left, but as a changed man. He began to sob on the plane.
An aide who was there later reported, “A turning point in Yeltsin’s intellectual development occurred during his first visit to the United States in September 1989, more specifically his first visit to an American Supermarket in Houston, Texas. The sight of aisle after aisle of shelves stacked with every conceivable type of foodstuff and household item, each in a dozen varieties, both depressed and amazed him...I think it is
quite likely that the last prop of Yelstin’s Bolshevik consciousness finally collapsed after Houston ...” In his autobiography, Against the Grain, Yeltsin describes the experience as “shattering.”
“When I saw those shelves crammed with hundreds, thousands of cans, cartons, and goods of every possible sort, for the first time I felt quite frankly sick with despair for the Soviet people,” he wrote. Within two years of his visit to Houston, disillusioned by this experience, Yeltsin left the Communist Party and later, as president, banned the party and confiscated its property. He then ordered reforms in the Russian economy. The rest is history. And all because of what we can eat. Bon appetite. (That’s Nigerian, I think.)
Ashby puts on his bib 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.
Public invited to inaugural Spaghetti Lunch benefitting the Greater Heights Area Community Fund
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to invite you to an event that truly embodies the spirit of community—our inaugural Spaghetti Lunch! There's nothing quite like sharing a meal to bring people together, and we want you to be a part of this special gathering.
A portion of the proceeds
will be donated to the Greater Heights Area Community Fund, supporting scholarships and providing assistance to those in need within our community.
Meal Includes:
• Complete homemade-style spaghetti lunch
• Choice of toppings: vegan, meatballs, Italian sausage, or a combination of meatball and Italian sausage
• Garlic bread
• Tossed Italian-style salad
• Iced tea
Cost: $20 per meal (desserts will be available for purchase at the event)
Heights business community, residents, and public servants in a welcoming and friendly environment while facilitating the Chambers’ ability to continue to serve the business community in the most accessible ways possible and to provide scholarships for high school seniors to continue their education.
REGISTER: https://cca. heightschamber.org
Trick or Treat in nature’s neighborhood: ArBOOretum Family Fall Festival promises pre-Halloween fun Oct. 19
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is proud to celebrate Houston’s best fall festival, ArBOOretum, set for Saturday, Oct. 19th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bring the kids out for the Houston Arboretum’s biggest family event of the year, featuring fun activities for all ages. Arboretum Members can attend for free, and all proceeds benefit the Arboretum’s mission of nature education and conservation.
Little ghouls and goblins should plan to be at ArBOOretum to play, learn, and enjoy an engaging day of activities. The popular Trickor-Treat Nature Trail will lead kids on an adventure of discovery where they will learn about creatures that live at the Arboretum, while collecting candy along the way. Other fa-
to be a returning presenting sponsor and co-chair, with support from countless other Height’s residents and small businesses who have contributed to making 2024 Shuck Cancer a night you won’t forget!”
THREE YEARS AND GROWING
Shuck Cancer has grown exponentially over the last three years, raising over $173,000 in its first year with around 300 attendees. This year they expect to host 900 guests with a goal of raising $350,000.
Event Chair Nora Jarrad said, “My husband Brian and I have been honored to be a part of this growth and can not wait to see young professionals in our city come together to support the American Cancer Society on November 21.”
Funds raised from Shuck Cancer Houston help support people with cancer and their families through every step of their cancer journey. In 2024, it is estimated that more than two million new cancer cases and 611,720 cancer deaths will occur in the United States.
Jenny Todd, senior executive director for The American Cancer Society says, “In our more than 100 years as an organization we have funded nearly every cancer breakthrough in recent history to ensure everyone has the opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer.”
MORE TOP RESTAURANTS
This year Shuck Cancer is happy to welcome some
vorite ArBOOretum activities throughout the day include:
• Carnival Swings Trick-or-Treat Nature Trail
• Halloween Market Live Animal Encounters
• Pumpkin Decorating • Train Rides Food trucks will also be on hand to keep guests wellfed and hydrated.
“Year after year, ArBOOretum is hands down our most popular family event, with parents and children enjoying fun fall activities all day long,” says Debbie Markey, Executive Director of the Houston Arboretum.
“Guests can also enjoy our beautiful nature trails, field stations, Nature Playscape for youngsters, along with flora and fauna. Consider becoming an ArBOOretum sponsor or joining the Arboretum as a Member for wonderful benefits throughout the year, including free or
reduced admission to events.”
ExxonMobil is the Presenting Sponsor of ArBOOretum. Additional sponsors include ACT Pipe
new participants including, Auden, Cafe Piquet Cuban Cuisine, Eugene’s Gulf Coast Cuisine, Eunice, Eureka Heights Brewing, GR8 Plate Hospitality, Hando, Heights & Co, Heights Beer Garden, Karbach Brewing, Landry’s Seafood House, Mi Cocina, Original Ninfa’s, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Palm Restaurant, Uchi Houston, Truluck’s, and William Price Distilling. Returning favorites this year are Argyle Willamette Valley, Federal American Grill, Field & Tides, Floyd’s Cajun Seafood, Guard and Grace, J Lohr Vineyards, Kateri Tequila, Liberty Kitchen, Loch Bar, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks, Pier 6 Seafood, Saint Arnold Brewing Co., Savoir, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Jason Montegut, director of operations at Pier 6 says, “We’re thrilled by the opportunity to return as oyster sponsors for Shuck Cancer 2024! The Pier 6 team is committed to giving back to our communities through philanthropic and sustainability efforts. Aligning with an incredible organization like ACS to fight such a terrible disease is something
we’re very proud to be a part of.”
Derek Shore, Co-host of KPRC’s Houston Life, will emcee the event. The evening will also feature live music by The Moment Band and a recognition of top achievements from the Shuck Cancer Pearl Honorees, as well as the community partners of The American Cancer Society.
Shuck Cancer Houston is made possible through the generous support of the community, including title sponsor Tricoast Homes, and presenting sponsor SheSpace. Additional sponsors include, EOG Resources, Robin & Danny Kleas, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Cotton Holdings, Ferrari of Houston, HITT Contracting, North Peak Energy, PlainsCapital Bank, T&T Shirts, and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
WHAT: Shuck Cancer Houston
WHEN: Nov. 21, 2024, 7-10 p.m.
WHERE: POST Houston, 401 Franklin Street Houston 77002
COST: $150 INFO & TICKETS: www. shuckcancerhouston.org
Supply, Inc., Main Street Capital Corporation, and Amegy Bank. WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. –
COST: Free for members and children under age 3; $20 for nonmembers ages 3 and up TICKETS: Tickets can be purchased in advance online
at houstonarboretum.org/ event/arbooretum.
WHERE: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center
Guest Entrance: 120 West Loop North Freeway, Houston, TX 77024
PARKING: The Arboretum grounds will be closed to parking for ArBOOretum. Please check the website for parking and shuttle details which are coming soon. Ride sharing is also encouraged. Limited handicap parking will be available at the Woodway Entrance. Comfortable walking shoes and costumes are encouraged. No pets are allowed during ArBOOretum; the event is rain or shine. All funds raised support nature conservation and educational programming for the Houston Arboretum. To stay up to date with all the latest at the Arboretum, visit houstonarboretum.org.
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews. com
Timbergrove Sports Association (TSA) is joining forces with Houston Sports and Social Club for a night of fun, food, and fundraising at the SPJST Lodge 88 on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024. The event features a Cornhole Tournament and a parent party aimed at raising funds for TSA programs. The Cornhole Tournament kicks off at 5:30 p.m., followed by the parent party at 6 p.m. Tickets are priced at $75 for general entry or tournament participation, with an optional VIP upgrade available for an additional
$50. VIP guests will gain access to the Blue Room, receive a swag bag, and enjoy other exclusive perks. Event highlights include dinner, an open bar, a bottle pull, raffle, and a bid-to-win auction for reserved parking spots at TSA. Participants in the Cornhole Tournament will
compete for exciting prizes.
Sponsorship opportuni-
Photo by Jacob Power
Photo by Christine Mansfield, Houston Arboretum
Did we miss it? Please email info about incoming and outgoing businesses to editor@ theleadernews.com.
Name: Chimmy Changa Age: 8 years Sex: Male
NOW OPEN: VIA 313 PIZZA
If you love Detroit style pizza, baked in pans resem-
bling auto part trays, then you'll be excited to hear that Via 313 recently opened a new location at 1541 North Shepherd Drive, Ste 1000, Houston, TX, 77008. This is the company's third location in the Houston area. Check out their menu at https://
COMMUNITY REPORTS
This family-friendly event will feature local breweries, costume contests for kids, adults, and even pets, plus trick-or-treating for the kiddos with complimentary bags from the 19th Street Merchant Association. For $20, attendees can grab the 2024 19th Street signature pint glass and enjoy complimentary brews from participating breweries all night long. The pint glasses are always a big hit, and they go fast. The pre-order link is live now.
WHAT: Boos & Brews on 19th Street
WHEN: Oct. 24, 5-9 p.m.
WHERE: 200-300 block of 19th St in the Heights
COST: Signature pint glass $20 INFO: facebook.com
locations.via313.com/locations/E247072.
NOW OPEN: NEW HEIGHTS COFFEE ROASTERS
of joy, laughter, and love to your life every single day. Learn more about Chimmy Changa at friends4life.org/ adoptable-pets/chimmy-changa!
COMING SOON: KIRBY ICE HOUSE
Kirby Ice House is set to open its fourth Texas location in the Heights in fall 2025, featuring a 3.5-acre space off North Loop 610 with a 24,000-square-foot facility. The new spot will boast the longest bar in Texas at 146 feet, surpassing the current record held by its location in The Woodlands. It will offer expansive indoor and outdoor areas, a variety of food trucks, and patio service. Learn more about Kirby Ice House at https:// kirbyicehouse.com.
New Heights Coffee Roasters has opened its first coffee shop, located inside the Asch Building on Studewood Street at 626 E 9th St, Houston, TX 77007, after starting as a local roastery in 2022. The company, known for its focus on micro-lot coffee, has expanded to offer a variety of unique beverages like the Elysian espresso tonic and the Amalfi cold brew, along with traditional options like flat whites and cappuccinos. The shop also features non-coffee drinks such as chai, matcha, lemonade, and hot cocoa. Learn more at www.newheightscoffeeroasters.com.
Barktoberfest 2024 Fundraising event for Houston Pets Alive!
Powder Keg 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Pickleball “Pickleboo” Tournament (77009) Pickleball tournament benefitting Oak Forest non-profit for CPS kids Drop Shots HTX (DPS), BLDG A, Suite 100 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park (77007) National and international artists gather for a 3-day outdoor event 6800 Memorial Dr.,
Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park returns this weekend!
COMMUNITY REPORTS Iconic art festival is back in Memorial Park on Friday-Sunday, October 11-13,
The Art Colony Association, Inc. (ACA), the producer of the Bayou City Art Festival, will transform Memorial Park into a vibrant outdoor art gallery and an interactive experience along South Picnic Loop on Memorial Drive on Friday – Sunday, October 11-13, 2024, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park will spotlight the festival’s featured artist Ash Beheshti, a mixed media artist from Los Angeles. As a visual storyteller, Beheshti voices his stories through his figurative collages that celebrate the female form and portray women in a strong, positive, and inspirational light.
As the nation’s premier outdoor art festival in the U.S., Bayou City Art Festival will provide attendees with the opportunity to personally meet artists, view original works, and purchase artwork from more than 270 artists offering 19 art disciplines including world-class paintings, prints, jewelry, sculptures and more at prices for everyone.
Guests are invited to enjoy a walk in the park while experiencing:
• Live Entertainment at the Stella Artois Stage and KPRC 2 Hitch Stage
• Large Food Truck Park
A Craft Beer and Wine Garden
• Walmart Style Tour showcasing their new collection where guests can receive a personal styling session and a free color analysis
• Holey Moley four-hole mini
putt-putt course with a chance to win prizes for a hole in one
• Himalayan Hatha Yoga and Sound Bath on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. until Noon Selfie stations throughout the park, including giant ART FEST letters, musical note, guitar, large picture frame, and more Art on Wheels on display from the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art that will feature cool and fun art cars
Portrait Society of Houston Face-Off that will feature three different artists painting the same model each day during this interactive exhibit Live Muralist Alexandre
Serty painting his graffiti urban street art live in the park
• Sunstop Kiosks sunscreen stations throughout the festival
In the Active Imagination Zone, guests of all ages can play with oversized bubbles, visit with caricature artist Bonnie Blue, and create art with the festival’s nonprofit partners ArtReach, Fresh Arts, The Health Museum, The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and The Women’s Fund for Health Education and Resiliency.
For the ultimate art lover, Bayou City Art Festival is offering a limited availability VIP Hospitality Lounge,
which will include complimentary light bites, beer, wine, and other refreshments. The relaxing setting will feature roaming musicians, artistic décor, a phone charging station, and more. VIPs will receive access from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to the VIP area, along with VIP parking. VIP tickets are available online for $75. Online general admission tickets are available at www. bayoucityartfestival.com for $20 for adults, $5 for children 6-12, and children under five are free. VIP Hospitality Lounge tickets are $75 and include parking and a free shuttle pass and admission to the festival. Online prepurchased tickets are required to enter the festival. Physical tickets will not be sold at the gate and can only be purchased online. On-site parking for the festival is not available. Free General Admission Parking will be located at Delmar Stadium at 2066 Mangum Rd, Houston 77007. Shuttle service will run from the stadium parking lot to the festival entrance and back throughout festival hours 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Shuttle service is $12 per person round trip. Attendees can purchase shuttle passes on the festival website. Children 17 and younger ride the shuttle free. For more information, please visit www.bayoucityartfestival. com.
