The Houston Heights community is mourning the recent loss of a beloved mother, daughter, sister, and neighbor – allegedly at the hands of her own husband.
Christa Bauer Gilley, 38, and her husband Lee Mongerson Gilley, 38, owned their house on Allston Street in the Heights for more than seven years. They raised their young family there,
with two young children and another on the way. At the time of her alleged murder on Monday, Oct. 7, Christa was reportedly 8 weeks pregnant.
Local media reports indicate Christa was a respected nurse at a local hospital while, according to court records, her husband worked as a self-employed software consultant.
WHAT DO POLICE SAY HAPPENED?
Houston Police allege that Christa
was strangled by her husband, Lee Gilley. A capital murder charge (multiple murder, due to Christa’s pregnancy) has since been filed against him in the 497th State District Court. According to HPD investigators, police officers were initially dispatched to the Gilley home around 11:30 p.m. on Oct. 7 when Christa’s husband called 911 to report a suicide, allegedly telling authorities he found his
By RUBENA GRACIA The Leader News Contributor
Many residents of the Heights know that there is a cultural gem on Heights Boulevard – Opera in the Heights. Since 1996, the company has presented approximately 350 performances and has gained national notice, for its significant role in nurturing young talent and delivering high-quality productions.
Opera in the Heights (OH) is a professional regional company that brings affordable opera to the Greater Houston Area, offering fully staged operas with orchestra that are presented in the original language with English surtitles projected on two monitors.
Grand Ambitions
Conductor and General Director Mr. Eiki Isomura spoke with the Leader at Lambert Hall. He wants
By LISA MORALES
The Leader News Contributor
Red Dessert Dive, a cozy dessert haven beloved by locals, has sweetened the Houston food scene once again with the opening of its second location near the Heights, in Oak Forest. Known for its delectable made-from-scratch treats, high-quality ingredients, and a unique pairing of desserts with craft beer, wine, and coffee, Red Dessert Dive has quickly become a cherished spot for dessert lovers.
Owner and founder Jessica Lusk, inspired by a mix of passion and family tradition, reflects on the journey of turning a dream into reality.
“Red is an actual dream come true,” she said. “I literally eat desserts for a living!”
The name “Red” is a tribute to her grandmother, affectionately known as “Mamaw” Stella, a fiery redhead whose unforgettable desserts became the inspiration behind the bakery.
“My Mamaw made me love eating desserts,” Lusk said. Though the baking is handled by her talented chef and now business partner Ashley, the spirit of Red’s family heritage is baked into every dessert.
The decision to open a second location was born out of necessity, with
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
If you happen to see cars named Cheese Blintz or Firefly or Flower on the road in the next few weeks, no need to worry! In an innovative move to combat food insecurity in local communities, including the Heights and Garden Oaks/Oak Forest, the Houston Food Bank, in collaboration with autonomous vehicle (AV) company Cruise, has launched a new program aimed at supporting expectant mothers facing
food insecurity. The initiative, part of the Food Rx program, uses Cruise’s autonomous vehicles to deliver produce and non-perishable food items directly to the doorsteps of new and expectant mothers in need. The pilot program will see Cruise deploy AVs with safety drivers to complete 180 deliveries, providing an estimated 6,000 meals to at-risk mothers across Houston. The program serves high-risk and expectant mothers through partnerships with
Photo courtesy of Christa Gilley’s family Christa Gilley was a beloved family member, friend, and member of the Heights community.
Tenor Brian Vu, baritone Adam Richardson, bass-baritone Griffen Hogan Tracy, and baritone Kellen Schrimper in “La Bohème” (April 2024).
Step by Step:
By CHARLIE HARDWICK
The Leader News Contributor
Every Saturday in Stude Park, Heights residents might have seen blind and visually impaired athletes take to the White Oak trail for a morning run. On Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, these athletes joined others from the blind and low-vision community at the University of Houston for the city’s annual White Cane Safety Day.
Celebrated by the City of Houston, this day recognized the importance of the white cane for individuals with vision loss or blindness and aimed to educate the community while promoting the independence and achievements of those who rely on the white cane for safe travel.
A BRIEF HISTORY
In 1921, James Biggs, a photographer from Bristol, England, became blind after an accident and was uncomfortable with the traffic around his home. He painted his walking stick white to make it more visible to those around him.
In 1931, Guilly
D’Herbemont in France launched a national white cane movement by symbolically giving two white canes to blind people in the presence of several French ministers. Five thousand white canes were later distributed to blind French veterans of World War I, as well as blind civilians.
In 1944, Richard E. Hoover, a World War II Veterans
THE PEOPLE.
Rehabilitation Specialist at Valley Forge Hospital, developed what became known as the Hoover method of longcane training to help veterans navigate their environment.
On Oct. 6, 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a joint resolution of Congress, HR 763, into law, proclaiming October 15 as White Cane Safety Day.
The City of Houston has actively celebrated this day annually since 2007.
COMING TOGETHER
Angel Ponce, Director of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, explained, “In Houston and across the nation, we come together in the month of October to recognize the critical role that the white cane and service animal play in empowering the blind and low-vision community.”
On Tuesday, Oct. 15, the
community, including businesses and students representing all Houston-area school districts, gathered at the University of Houston.
A white cane march, led by blind and visually impaired students from schools around the Houston area, began at 10 a.m. Volunteers were onsite to guide attendees arriving by Metro Lift to the staging area. The march wound through campus and ended at the Student Center, where the day’s programming began at 10:30 a.m.
EXHIBITORS,
RESOURCES, AND FUN
The program started with a reading of a Mayoral Proclamation by Councilwoman Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, representing District D. Between 35 and 40 exhibitors provided various resources for people with a wide
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Cecilia Vasquez Zboral, age 91, of Houston, Texas passed away on Monday, October 7, 2024. She was born on January 14, 1933, in San Gabriel, TX, the daughter of Rosendo and Rita Vasquez. She was a mother, wife, and a sister- the last of eleven siblings.
She is survived by her son Eward Garza and wife Melinda; daughters, Emma Cynthia Obregon and Patricia Sanders and husband Donald; nine grandchildren; sixteen greatgrandchildren; and nine great-great grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Cecilia worked as an LVN and is twice retired from the Memorial Hermann system. Her pastimes included gardening, dancing and clogging, travel when she could and she always had a knack to never meet a stranger. When she became a Jehovah’s witness on July 15, 2015, it was easy for her to share the good news of Jehovah’s Promises Kingdom.
range of disabilities. Vendors included Workforce Solutions, Achilles Houston, and an audio book library resource center, among others.
Participants enjoyed door prizes, including a $1,500 Carnival Cruise, gift cards, and a free lunch for all attendees.
TECH UNVEILED
NEW
White Cane Safety Day had the support of numerous area sponsors, including Houston Lighthouse for the Blind, American Federation of the
Blind, HAVIN (Houston Area Visually Impaired Network), and the Texas Workforce Commission. Benigno Aceves, a vocational rehabilitation manager with the Texas Workforce Commission, expressed excitement about introducing a new navigation app called Right Hear, which uses cell signals to help blind attendees navigate the event independently. “This is a new technology we are excited to introduce,” Aceves said. Though focused on blind-
ness and visual impairment, the event also aimed to educate the community about how blindness can intersect with multiple disabilities, providing resources for everyone. Aceves summed up the event by saying, “White Cane Day is more than an event. People are walking away with a sense of ‘I CAN!’ We want our youth to understand that there are many in the blind community who are thriving and living fulfilling, productive lives.”
the first location at 1045 Studewood feeling the strain of its tiny kitchen.
“We had to turn down so many orders due to space issues. As a business owner, that just hurt,” Lusk explained. With the new, larger space at 2214 W. 34th Street, Red Dessert Dive now has room to grow, taking on more orders and expanding their offerings without compromising quality. “I never thought I’d own one bakery, much less two! It’s amazing. I have the best team behind me, and without them, I never would have taken this leap.”
The secret behind Red Dessert Dive’s success lies not only in the nostalgic family connection but also in its dedication to quality. The bakery’s motto is clear: fresh, daily-made, and high-quality desserts are non-negotiable.
“Aside from my team, the quality of our product is a very close second to the reason for our success. We still bake from scratch daily, and always will. It’s the only way to ensure a quality product,” Lusk said.
Red Dessert Dive’s offerings include a wide range of mouthwatering sweets, from decadent cookies and brownies to modern wedding cakes and dessert tables, each designed with an elevated touch. Customers are invited to pair their sweet treats with top-tier coffee, a craft beer, or a glass of wine, making every visit a
unique dessert experience. Red Dessert Dive also offers catering services, bringing their delicious creations to corporate events, baby showers, weddings, and more. The business has earned a loyal following for creating beautiful, elegant cakes, including their famous Salted Valrhona Chocolate Chunk Cookies, which make for perfect wedding favors.
The expansion of Red Dessert Dive into the Oak Forest area signifies not just growth but a continuation of a cherished tradition. By honoring her grandmother’s legacy and focusing on high stan-
dards and fresh ingredients, Lusk has crafted a dessert shop that is more than just a place to satisfy a sweet tooth. It’s a celebration of family, tradition, and passion—a recipe for success that has resonated with the Houston community. With two locations now serving the Heights, Red Dessert Dive invites everyone to indulge in the deliciousness and experience desserts made with love. Join their 18,000+ followers on Instagram @reddessertdive. Visit them in person at 1045 Studewood in the Heights or 2214 W. 34th in Oak Forest, and online at reddessertdive.com.
RED DESSERT, from P. 1
Submitted photos
The second location of Red Dessert Dive at 2214 W. 34th in the Oak Forest area.
Submitted photo
Tres Leches at the original Studewood location in the Heights.
Photo courtesy of HWCSD
Participants marching on the University of Houston campus in a previous White Cane Safety Day event.
Photo by Charlie Hardwick
Prior to the main White Cane Safety Day on Oct. 15 at the University of Houston, the West Gray Multi-Service Center also hosted a White Cane Safety Day event on Oct. 12.
HAR local data by zip code: Housing market shows signs
COMMUNITY REPORTS
After a down August, sales return to positive territory as prices and inventory hold steady The Greater Houston housing market showed signs of stability in September after recent market fluctuations. Home sales rebounded, prices held steady and inventory remained sufficient to meet buyer demand. These positive indicators point to a more balanced market.
According to the Houston Association of Realtors’ (HAR) September 2024 Housing Market Update, single-family home sales across the Greater Houston area rose 1.7 percent year-over-year with 6,973 units sold compared to 6,858 last September. Inventory expanded from a 3.4-months supply to 4.4 months over the last 12 months, remaining unchanged from the previous month and the highest since September 2012.
Homes prices have shown signs of stabilization as well. The average price remained relatively flat at $415,435, while the median price edged up by 1.1 percent to $335,000.
The housing segment with homes priced between $250,000 and $499,999, which represented 59.7 percent of all home sales in September, had
OPERA, from P. 1
the company’s mission. This is a forward-looking season, he said. Half of the composers are women who are still living, which helps to develop a contemporary repertoire.
For 20 years, the company had presented four fullystaged productions each season. But when the pandemic hit in 2020, OH was forced to present concerts and digital productions and work with a skeleton crew. This is the company’s first full season since the pandemic. OH is also growing back staff and is searching for a Development Director. At his curtain speech for Lucia di Lammernoor in September, Isomura implored the audience for financial support, but he knew he couldn’t continue asking patrons for support without growing their performances.
Isomura also spoke about the new opera Lucidity, a co-premiere production involving three companies.
The opera will first be performed in New York in November 2024, then travel to the Seattle Opera, and then to Opera in the Heights in February 2025. Each venue will modify the set to fit their stage. Composer Laura Kominski is most famous for the chamber opera As One. Librettist David Cote is also an arts journalist, theater critic, and playwright based in New York.
“It is important to be working with creative artists to develop new works, especially in stories that haven’t been told,” Isomura said about Lucidity . “This opera explores dementia
the strongest performance, with sales 4.2 percent above where they were during the same time last year. That was followed by the segment that consisted of homes priced below $100,000 which saw sales increase 3.5 percent, and the luxury end of the market ($1 million+) saw a 2.0 percent increase in home sales. All other housing segments experienced a decline in sales in September.
Rentals of single-family homes experienced a slowdown in leasing activity for the first time this year. HAR will publish its September 2024 Rental Home Update on Wednesday, October 16.
“The Houston housing market is demonstrating a healthy balance,” said HAR Chair Thomas Mouton with Century 21 Exclusive Properties. “The rise in sales, expansion of inventory and stable prices indicate a market that is adapting to changing economic conditions. The positive performance in the $250,000 to $500,000 price range and steady inventory levels further support a sustainable market outlook.”
September Monthly Market Comparison
September marked the fifth consecutive month of year-over-year declines in total property sales. Sales were down 3.3 percent compared to
and how it affects people’s lives, and about the power of music to heal.”
L’Italiana in Algeri, which will be performed in April 2025, is a co-production with Anchorage Opera. The company is run by General Director Ben Robinson, a close colleague of Isomura who has performed at Opera in the Heights in the past. Anchorage Opera also features rising stars. Isomura and Robinson are “interested in co-productions between regional companies to share resources and elevate our overall production standards while controlling and sharing expenses.” For example, the two companies will share costumes and hand props, which will allow them to make a better product. This will also offer longer contracts to artists who will travel with the production. Smaller roles will be sung by local artists.
Isomura said this is the most exciting time to be making opera. Besides doing good work, the company is building on efforts “to grow our support and programming.” He said this is a “leap of faith year, one in which we reestablish a strong position and model for the future.”
A Gala, Future Plans, and Community Support
There will be a fundraising gala on Saturday, Oct. 19, at the Houston Saengerbund next to Lambert Hall. The Houston Saengerbund, their new landlord, is sponsoring the space for the event. There is also a matching gift opportunity from two
the same time last year. Total dollar volume was statistically unchanged at $3.3 billion. The number of available properties were 25.0 percent above where they were last September.
Single-Family Homes Update, Citywide
Single-family home sales rebounded in September, increasing 1.7 percent yearover-year with a total of 6,973 units sold across the Greater Houston area compared to 6,858 last year. The average price held steady at $415,435 while the median price increased slightly to $335,000. The price per square foot increased from $177 last year to $178.
Active listings climbed by 28.1 percent year-over-year, with 30,617 single-family
homes available for sale in September. The average days on market increased from 45 to 51, reflecting a slower pace of sales.
Months of inventory of single-family homes expanded from a 3.4-months supply last September to 4.4 months, which is the highest since September 2012 when there was a 4.7-months supply.
Housing inventory nationally stands at a 4.2-months supply, according to the latest report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR). A 4.0- to 6.0-months supply is generally considered a “balanced market” in which neither buyer nor seller has an advantage.
Broken out by housing segment, September sales performed as follows:
• $1 - $99,999: increased 3.5 percent
• $100,000 - $149,999: decreased 23.4 percent
$150,000 - $249,999: decreased 0.3 percent
$250,000 - $499,999: increased 4.2 percent
• $500,000 - $999,999: decreased 3.6 percent
• $1M and above: increased 2.0 percent HAR also breaks out sales figures for existing singlefamily homes. In September, existing home sales totaled 4,873, which is down 0.7 percent compared to the same time last year. The average price rose 3.0 percent yearover-year to $429,787, and the median sales price increased 3.1 percent to $335,000.
Houston Real Estate Highlights in September
Single-family home sales increased 1.7 percent year-over-
year; Days on Market (DOM) for single-family homes went from 45 to 51 days; Total property sales were down 3.3 percent with 8,228 units
The single-family average price edged up by 0.3 percent to $415,435; Single-family
patrons who have recognized the growth in the production quality. Isomura said he is very humbled by the support.
Rodney Thorin is the President of the Houston Saengerbund. The Houston Center for the Musical Arts (HCMA) has a capital campaign to raise funds for the organization’s vision for the future of the space, which is to completely transform the whole block into a performing arts center while maintaining the historical exteriors of the two churches on the property. There will be new buildings for a rehearsal hall, a concert hall, a theatre, and office space. This concept is similar to MATCH, the Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston, but for music and opera.
Opera in the Heights has a loyal audience. One subscriber named Lora Wildenthal has lived in the Heights since 2003. She told the Leader how she became involved with OH. A neighbor first invited her to attend a performance in 2014, she said, and then she became friends with an OH board member. She lives
close enough to Lambert Hall to walk to the performances. Lora said, “It is one of my favorite things about the Heights,” Wildenthal said. “It brings more and different beauty to our area.”
UPCOMING: The Little Prince
The next opera, The Little Prince by composer Rachel Portman and librettist Nicholas Wright, will take place Dec. 6, 8, 14, and 15. There is one evening performance and three matinee performances. The opera is based on Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s iconic novella. It will be directed by Josh Shaw and conducted by Isomura.
“In The Little Prince, a young boy travels from planet to planet, meeting numerous eccentric characters, who teach him life lessons about human nature,” an OH media release states. “When he travels to Earth, he forms a deep bond with a stranded pilot, sharing stories of his adventures and his wish to be reunited with his beloved
rose.” Le Petit Prince, first published in 1943, has become one of the most best-selling and beloved books of all time. It has been translated into over 500 languages and dialects and has sold about 140 million copies.
Isomura said, “The Little Prince deserves to be part of our canon.” The opera, he said, appeals to both adults and children. Isomura wants to cultivate audiences with this production.
“Very much in the spirit of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker and Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors, or perhaps even films by Pixar, this is a piece that can immediately capture the imagination of a child, while sinking into the hearts of adult audiences in a deeper way,” he said. “And the music is simply gorgeous.” Two 12-year-olds – Daniel Karash and Everett Baumgarten –will perform The Prince, and
baritones Scott Clark and Kellen Schrimper will give voice to the role of the Pilot. These are role debuts for all four artists. The performances will be sung in English with English surtitles. Isomura feels that the company is doing its finest work since he has been director. The production values have improved, he said, and the company is more polished. He is exceedingly proud. He added, “I see this season as a representation of what this company is about.” Opera in the Heights performs at Lambert Hall, located at 1703 Heights Blvd. Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday matinees begin at 2 p.m. For more information about this season’s performances, to buy tickets, or to make a donation, please visit www. operaintheheights.org or call 713-861-5303.
Photo by Pin Lim
Tenor Ben Lurye and soprano Catherine Goode in “The Light in the Piazza” (February 2024).
My mother was a worrier. One day I saw her frowning and I asked, “Mom, why the frown?” She replied, “Everything is going so well. That worries me.” Mom wasn’t a sourpuss or a wet blanket, quite the contrary, but she did worry – mostly about her children. I found it hard to argue her point. Why try to change her disposition? But let me try to change your disposition because, despite the cold, hard facts, Americans are worried and in a funk. First, we must look at our current situation: The stock market is at an all-time high and, every day breaks a record. Of course, there are mammoth exceptions, like Trump Media shares which have lost more than 60 percent of their value since the company’s public debut. If you invested in Bitcoins and didn’t sell when their price was skyrocketing, tough. Bitcoins are the biggest scam since Enron. Incidentally, you did sell your Enron stock before Ken Lay and Jeff Skilling were convicted of multi-billion dollar fraud and the stock became worthless, didn’t you? I’m doing fine – steam locomotives will make a comeback, disco clubs and AstroWorld will,
too. Although when my bro ker recommended, “You need to have liquidity in your port folio,” I asked, “Why would I put a bottle of Ozarka in my briefcase?” He’ll be out if his appeal is granted. The unemployment rate is 4.1 percent, an increase of 0.1 percent from a year ago, but generally it hasn’t been this low since Eisenhower was president. You see “Now Hiring” signs in store windows everywhere. Granted, the job market is selective. Currently there are no openings for Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis presidential campaign workers. Same for the Astronauts Return Party Celebration. But they are now hiring at the Elon Musk Charm Schools. Donald Trump said in a recent interview on the Fox Business Channel that “the illegal migrants coming into the country are getting the jobs.” Wrong, Donald. As Paul Krugman of The New York Times points out: Employment among native-born Americans has been flat or declining in recent years. But not because they can’t find jobs; it’s happening because baby boomers are getting older, and more of them are reaching retirement
THE TOPICS.
migrants pouring across the southern border. The flow has greatly dwindled, but we have to wonder why just now Joe Biden is belatedly closing the door. He’s a career pol, and you would think he knew way back when that his constituents were concerned. That inaction has thrown red meat to the GOP. The Dems do that a lot.
Now let’s talk inflation, and/or the economy which polls show is another worry among Americans, and they want our next president to do something about it. Of course it’s a worry. Have you eaten at a restaurant lately? However, the Consumer Price Index rose 2.4 percent
Call to Action: North Shepherd District hosts community clean-up effort Oct. 26
Parking Lot
Volunteers are asked to bring
their own gloves and clean-up tools, such as wheelbarrows, shovels and grabbers, all clearly marked with the owner’s name.
in the 12-months that ended in September. That’s quite an improvement compared to the 9.1 percent in 2022.
The crime rate is down, even in the Houston area, but you wouldn’t know that if you listen to some of the campaign rhetoric poured out by you-know-who. Tip O’Neill observed: “All politics is local.”
A journalism prof at UT once told my class: “Don’t ever write that a plane with 200 passengers crashed, but only one person was killed. If you are that one person, that plane crash was a major disaster.”
So if you got mugged or your Lamborghini was stolen, crime is rampant. Tip was right.
Mark Twain supposedly said, “A lie can travel halfway around the world before the truth can get its boots on.”
These days the truth is far behind. If we look at the overall stats on what’s really going on in America, it’s basically good news. We don’t believe it. According to a new report from Mehlman Consulting, 73 percent of us believe the nation is on the wrong track, compared to 22 percent who believe it is going in the right direction. An ABC News/ Ipsos poll came up with the
same results. Republicans are overwhelmingly negative, with 95 percent thinking this country is heading in the wrong direction, followed by 76 percent of independents and 54 percent of Democrats. Get this: Across a range of issues asked about in the poll, around a third of Americans say they don’t trust either party.
Why this cynicism? Why this distrust? In two words: Donald Trump, or in two more: Fox News (which is an oxymoron). More specifically, we are pessimistic because of the misinformation they dish out constantly. And, as we can see, it’s working. We are on a steady diet of negativism.
Remember the old “Saturday Night Live” character Debby Downer. Someone would say, “It looks like a good spring,” and Debby would reply, “Yeah, if we all aren’t dead by then.” The latest drowning, so to speak, of misinformation is about the federal government’s efforts to aid victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Our leader, President Joe Biden (who seems to have disappeared) said, “Over the last few weeks, there has been a reckless, irresponsible, and relentless promotion of dis-
information and outright lies that are disturbing people.” U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene says she knows the true culprit: “The federal government is literally controlling the weather, we’re controlling the weather. It’s beyond ridiculous. It’s so stupid. It’s got to stop.” Let’s stop Marjorie Taylor Greene. OK, let’s assume this good news is actually fake news. No one landed on the moon. It was a Hollywood stunt. Pro wrestling is real. The Astros’ bullpen won the playoffs but the Tigers beat on a trash can to signal their batters. Donald Trump won the 2020 presidential election and you better watch out ‘cause Santa Claus is coming to town. My mother would worry about that. Ashby misinforms 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.
Solid Waste Management Department to hold 4th Annual Pumpkin Compost Drop-Off
The City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department, in partnership with Council Member Sallie Alcorn, is excited to announce the return of the 4th Annual Pumpkin Composting Drop-Off program, now with expanded locations and extended hours. This program offers a convenient way for Houston residents to compost their holiday pumpkins, reducing waste that would otherwise end up in
landfills. From Nov. 1 to Dec. 6, 2024, residents can drop off their retired jack-o-lanterns, whole pumpkins, seeds, and pumpkin pulp.
YOUR LOCATION: City of Houston Reuse Warehouse 9003 N. Main St., Houston, TX 77022 Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. –4 p.m. (Open every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
Please ensure all costumes and decorations are removed
from pumpkins before dropoff to allow for proper composting.
“Pumpkin composting is one of my favorite traditions in Houston”, says Council Member Sallie Alcorn. “This year’s pumpkin composting program marks another milestone in our city’s journey towards a more sustainable future. I encourage all Houstonians to take advantage of the program this year.”
Last year, the program collected and composted over 16,000 pounds of pump-
kins. With expanded dropoff locations and extended hours this year, Solid Waste Management Department Director Mark Wilfalk is optimistic about the program’s growing impact.
“We’re excited to see how much more we can collect this year,” Wilfalk stated. “This annual program offers a great opportunity for Houston residents to engage in composting, and we hope to see it continue expanding as we pursue additional funding for composting initiatives.”
Men’s Prostate Problems: What’s Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH?
As men age, certain health concerns may arise, and one condition that often affects the quality of life is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
BPH is enlargement of the prostate gland, a walnut-sized organ that plays a crucial role in male reproductive health. While BPH is a common part of the aging process, its symptoms can be bothersome and impact daily activities.
Understanding BPH and recognizing symptoms
BPH occurs when the prostate gland, which surrounds the urethra, becomes enlarged. This growth can lead to a variety of symptoms that are similar to those of prostate cancer, with the most common being:
• Frequency and urgency of urination
• Difficulty starting a urine stream
Bladder and kidney infections
Urinary blockage
Kidney failure
Diagnosing BPH
The diagnosis of BPH typically involves a thorough evaluation by your physician with specific tests. Your physician
may inquire about your symptoms, their duration, and how this impacts day-to-day life. Typically, as part of an annual exam or if your physician suspects prostate problems, a digital rectal examination (DRE) will be performed to assess the size and condition of the prostate. This involves your physician inserting a gloved, lubricated finger in the lower part of your rectum to feel the prostate and estimate its size and shape.
Other tests, depending on your symptoms, may include:
Blood tests – Prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels may be evaluated to rule out prostate cancer or growth in the amount of benign tissue (BPH).
Urine flow study – measures urine flow speed since slow speed could indicate BPH
Ultrasounds – Additional studies to understand the anatomy of the prostate could include a transrectal ultrasound, which measures the size and shape of the prostate or a flexible cystoscopy to more accurately see inside the urethra and bladder for any obstruction. Both procedures are performed under local anesthetic in the office.
wife unresponsive from a drug overdose. When emergency services arrived, paramedics transported Christa to an area hospital where she was pronounced deceased.
In a news release, HPD officials stated that hospital staff informed them that Christa had suffered “bruising and apparent trauma to her face.”
An autopsy by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences subsequently ruled Christa’s death a homicide “due to compression of the neck”, the HPD news release stated, going on to say that “The autopsy also revealed Ms. Gilley was about eight weeks pregnant.”
On Oct. 11, 2024, Lee Gilley was taken into custody by HPD and booked into the Harris County Jail on a charge of capital murder/ multiple murder.
Harris County court records indicate Lee Gilley at first claimed to have gone to sleep and, when he checked on his wife about three hours later that evening, he found her unresponsive. According to court documents, he later conceded that Christa was neither suicidal, nor addicted to drugs. He reportedly also told investigators that he and his wife had had a fight on the evening of her death.
As of Tuesday, Oct. 15, Lee Gilley, who shows no prior criminal history in Harris County, remained in the Harris County Jail. Bond had been denied.
FROM CHRISTA’S FAMILY
Christa’s family has released a media statement via their Heights attorney, Tim Ballengee. The statement
AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE, from P. 1
Dr. Ricardo R. Gonzalez, a urologist at Houston Methodist, says diagnosing BPH is a critical step in determining the most appropriate course of action to manage and alleviate the symptoms associated with this condition.
“Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia can be life-disrupting, so it’s important to seek medical advice early to understand and explore the range of treatment options available to you, which can make a substantial difference
in managing symptoms effectively,” said Gonzalez.
Treatment options
Living with the symptoms of BPH can be challenging, but the good news is that various effective treatments are available. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the impact on your quality of life, and your overall health. Here are some common treatment options: Medications – including ones that relax the mus-
HOUSTON METHODIST
LEADING CARE where you need us
Convenient, easy-to-access locations for primary, specialty and emergency care
cles of the prostate (alpha blockers), shrink the prostate (5-alpha reductase inhibitors), or relax the bladder [PDE5-inhibitors like tadalafil] or combination of these.
• In-office procedures – also called minimally invasive surgical therapies (MISTs), which include prostatic urethral lift procedure, water vapor therapy and a temporarily implanted nitinol device
• Surgeries – including aqua-
To find a location, visit houstonmethodist.org/central or call 713.790.3333.
reads, in full:
“Christa’s family is devastated by her tragic death and the death of her unborn child. Christa was an amazing mother, full of love, and excited to welcome her third child. They were taken from this world needlessly and way too early. Christa’s family appreciates the outpouring from the community and hopes for justice for their daughter and their unborn grandchild. They are here to support Christa’s children and to focus on the memory of their daughter.”
A COMMUNITY IN MOURNING
Crime Stoppers of Houston Director of Victims Services and Advocacy Andy Kahan said incidents of domestic violence resulting in homicide are on the rise in Harris County.
“Often, when women become pregnant, they become a target for their partner,” he said. “It will now be up to the District Attorney’s Office to determine whether they will seek the death penalty, since this offense is death penalty eligible.”
As attorneys and courts grapple with legal matters, a stricken Heights community united to honor Christa’s life.
“Our Heights community
Community Health Choice and UT Public Health.
“While food prescription programs that improve access to healthy food alongside nutrition education have been gaining popularity nationwide as a feasible, acceptable, and effective model to improve health outcomes in food-insecure populations, no studies have been conducted to evaluate their impact on outcomes among pregnant women,” said Brian Greene, president and CEO of the Houston Food Bank. “This innovative program will be very insightful and impactful, and the partnership with Cruise
blation, laser vaporization and laser enucleation therapies, as well as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and robotic prostatectomy In some cases, surgical treatments may be the best course of action to treat BPH. One option, aquablation therapy, is a surgical, incision-less procedure that uses an imageguided robotic arm that holds a water jet to precisely remove excess prostate tissue.
“There is no one-size-fitsall when it comes to treatment options for BPH,” said Gonzalez. “Beyond medication, it’s best to discuss with your urologist the best course of action, whether it’s an office-based minimally invasive surgical therapy like prostatic urethral lift or surgical aquablation, which may be a better fit for someone with BPH that is more moderate or severe.”
Don’t let the symptoms of BPH impact your daily routine. Consult with a urologist to explore personalized treatment options for you.
To schedule an appointment with a specialist, visit www.houstonmethodist.org/ urology or call 832.778.4542.
is coming together to celebrate the life of Christa Bauer Gilley and offer support to her family and loved ones during this difficult time,” a Houston Heights Association Facebook post announced earlier this week. “If you knew Christa or her family, we encourage you to reach out to help with organizing this evening of remembrance and love. All are welcome to attend and offer their support. Let’s stand together as a community and honor her memory.
The vigil, coordinated by community leaders from The Heights Moms Group, the Houston Heights Association, and Village Heights Church, took place at Marmion Park on the evening of Oct. 15.
The vigil was a private gathering, closed to the media, to “celebrate Christa’s amazing life and mourn her tragic loss,” said HHA Executive Director Emily Guyre. The Leader honored the family’s request for privacy and refrained from attending the vigil.
“The Heights Constable Patrol and local law enforcement graciously volunteered to help with the vigil and we are grateful to them,” Guyre said ahead of the vigil. “We want to provide a space to join as a Heights community and remember Christa as a friend, mother, and loved one.”
The Leader reached out to Lee Gilley’s attorneys of record, Bill Stradley and Ed McClees, to offer the opportunity to comment.
“This is a really lovely family on both sides,” Stradley told The Leader on the phone. “We are simply trying to get to the bottom of things at this time and we’re going to do everything we can to help our client. There’s a lot we need to look into.”
allows us to leverage new technology to support at-risk new and expectant mothers with essential food packages delivered right to their doorstep.”
The program addresses both food insecurity and maternal health challenges, as research shows that food insecurity during pregnancy can lead to complications like low birth weight, gestational diabetes, and other health issues. By ensuring regular access to healthy food, the initiative aims to improve health outcomes for mothers and their babies, while reducing the financial stress associated with grocery costs. Sola Lawal, Cruise General Manager of Houston, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “As someone who’s
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the prevalence of domestic violence, promoting prevention efforts, and providing support to survivors and those affected. Domestic violence, also referred to as intimate partner violence (IPV), continues to impact millions of people across the U.S. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is committed to increasing public understanding of the issue and encouraging survivors to access available resources.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), intimate partner violence includes physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, and psychological aggression by a current or former intimate partner. Nationally, about one in four women and
called Houston home for most of my life, it’s so meaningful for me to be able to leverage innovative technology to serve people in my community who need it the most. We are looking forward to partnering with the Houston Food Bank to help address food insecurity, which affects 1 million Houstonians.” The program is active in numerous ZIP codes, including those in and around the Heights, covering 77007, 77008, 77009, 77018, and surrounding areas. It is expected to run for three months, with deliveries targeting neighborhoods where food access is a critical challenge. For more information on the Houston Food Bank and its programs, visit www. HoustonFoodBank.org.
one in 10 men have experienced some form of IPV in their lifetime. The physical, mental, and emotional toll of domestic violence is profound, with survivors often experiencing chronic health issues, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders.
Key Statistics:
• 41% of women and 14% of men who experience intimate partner violence report sustaining physical injuries.
Survivors of intimate partner violence are at greater risk for conditions such as heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and mental health challenges.
• More than 15 million children are exposed to intimate partner violence in the home each year, which can lead to long-term
emotional and behavioral issues. With appropriate intervention and support, many children can heal and build resilience.
The CDC stresses that the key to reducing domestic violence lies in a combination of education, early intervention, and creating supportive environments. Community programs that promote healthy relationships, teach conflict resolution, and challenge harmful societal norms are essential in addressing the root causes of domestic violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800799-SAFE (7233). For more resources, visit the CDC’s page on Intimate Partner Violence.
GILLEY, from P. 1
Photo released by HPD
ARRESTED & CHARGED: Lee Gilley
Catpool
Name: Catpool Age: 4 months old
Sex: Female
up for a well-deserved nap in your lap. Just like Deadpool with her quirky charm, Catpool brings endless fun and warmth to every moment. Check out Catpool’s bio in the comments below! Learn more about Catpool at friends4life.org/ adoptable-pets/catpool/
“Bowl that connects the world”: Japan’s popular ramen brand, Afuri Ramen, adds first Texas location in the Heights
COMMUNITY REPORTS Experience Authentic Japanese Flavors in a Stunning and Modern 4,400-Square-Foot Space
AFURI Ramen, a popular Tokyo-based ramen brand, has announced its expansion into Texas with the opening of its first location in the Greater Heights neighborhood.
Opening to the public on Nov. 1, the new location will be in the new development space at 1215 N. Durham Drive, Suite B-100, Houston, TX 77008. It will occupy 3,600 and 800 square feet of interior and patio space, respectively. The restaurant is rooted in authentic Japanese flavors and will provide an extraordinary culinary and educational experience for guests.
“We are thrilled to bring high-quality, authentic Japanese cuisine to Houston. Texans now have the opportunity to experience Japan without catching a flight,” said Taichi Ishizuki, CEO of AFURI Ramen. “We can’t wait to introduce the Heights to the depth and tradition of our cuisine, and we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for authentic Japanese flavors.”
AFURI Ramen first opened its doors in Japan in 2003 followed by its first United States outpost in Portland, Oregon in 2016. The restaurant has since amassed a strong following with 7 locations nationally, 28 locations internationally and plans to expand.
AFURI is named after a mountain in Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture. Steeped
in legend, Mt. Afuri is thought to be the father of Mt. Fuji and is associated with the gods of rain and thunder in Japanese mythology. Mt. Afuri has long been known for its pristine waters and is revered as a sacred mountain of good harvest. Drawn to its natural spring water and abundance of locally farmed ingredients, AFURI Ramen opened its first kitchen at the foot of the revered mountain and had the dream of bringing fine Japanese ramen to the rest of the world. In contrast to the numerous Japanese restaurants across the globe serving less traditional ramen made with lower-quality ingredients, AFURI aims to adhere to a high standard of quality and authenticity. Afuri stands out by using all GMO-free products and omitting MSG from all of their dishes. They further cater to their customers’ needs and preferences by offering vegan, vegetarian and glutenfree options. Diners also have
the ability to create their own unique ramen combinations.
The AFURI Ramen menu is centered around their signature Yuzu Shio ramen - a light, delicate broth made from a reduction of local chicken, dry fish, seaweed and vegetables to produce a layered, complex umami flavor with a hint of refreshing yuzu citrus. Other ramen highlights include the Tonkotsu Shio, a tonkotsu broth soup with scallions, kikurage mushroom, black garlic oil, chashu, pickled ginger, egg, sesame and thin noodles as well as the customizable ZEN ramen, a chicken broth soup with shio tare, thin noodles and garlic chips plus customizable toppings, meats and noodle substitutions.
AFURI’s Houston location will offer sushi, sashimi and handrolls. Menu standouts include the AFURI roll with salmon, avocado, cucumber, salmon caviar, tobiko, chives, fried leeks and sesame, the Tuna Handroll with tuna and cucumber, and an assortment of sashimi offerings such as Moriawase, Albacore, King Salmon, Tuna and Hokkaido Scallop.
Curated small plates include Tori Karaage with Japanese fried chicken, nanban sauce, yuzu kosho egg salad, shishito, house made furikake, chive and lemon, Hotate Carpaccio with scallop, yuzu vinaigrette, orange, tobiko, microgreens and chives, and Tuna Tartare with spicy tuna, chives, salmon caviar, yuzu kosho ponzu, micro greens, fried leeks, wasabi and gyoza chips. Guests can choose from a selection of Donburi, a traditional Japanese dish of
steamed rice topped with various ingredients, such as the Albacore Don with hazelnut rayu , onion scallions, poke sauce or the Karaage Don with Japanese fried chicken, sweet chili soy sauce, mayo, sesame, scallion, pickled ginger and kizami nori. Dumpling offerings include flavorful options like Buta, Spicy Crispy Gyoza. Afuri’s featured dessert is the Basque Cheesecake - a hearty slice served with yuzu curd, whipped cream and candied hazelnuts. To complement each meal, AFURI Ramen will have a full bar with a selection of carefully crafted cocktails, sakes and whiskeys.
“We know what an authentic dish tastes like and we also know that AFURI is one of the first to bring these flavors into the city,” said Patrick Sun, Houston franchise owner. “Houston has such a diverse group of communities here and we wanted to ensure all can be included in this experience. That’s why our Houston menu features a variety of meat and broth selections and a gluten-free noodle.”
Encompassing a total of 4,439 square feet, AFURI Ramen features a modern, minimalist interior with impressive cuts of white oak and a large open-concept kitchen where guests can watch the noodle and broth-making processes from the comfort of their table. AFURI Ramen will be open for lunch and dinner service from 11 am – 10 pm Sunday through Thursday and 11 am – 12 am Friday and Saturday. For more information on AFURI Ramen, please visit https://afuriramen.com
Photo courtesy of Afuri Ramen ARD Ramen Tonkotsu Shio
Art Valet: FRACTURED Selfies at Archway Gallery
Take a cell phone “cubist” selfie at Archway Gallery on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 2 – 4 p.m. as part of Larry Garmezy’s sixth solo exhibition, “Fractured.” This photographic adventure utilizes 400-year-old hand-blown glass to create unique visual distortions.
provides further insight into Garmezy’s pieces.
The artist will be present at Archway Gallery, 2305 Dunlavy, to assist guests in capturing their own cubist portraits. Garmezy’s journey for this series began a decade ago, photographing scenes through 17th-century windows in Europe. He later expanded the project in Houston, using “restoration” glass manufactured in Germany using 17th-century methods to create new perspectives on a variety of subjects, including portraits. Garmezy suggests that these visual distortions may have influenced the Cubism movement.
“What I’ve seen in the
2020s was certainly observable by the artists of the early 1900s looking through similar windows,” Garmezy said. The origins of “faceting” in cubist paintings have long puzzled art historians. Garmezy’s photographs bear striking similarities to the faceting found in works by Picasso, Braque, and Delaunay. This exhibition is accompanied by a catalog featuring a foreword by Karen Schiff, formerly of the MFAH and now a drawing instructor at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design. Her commentary, informed by her research on the early work of Picasso,
“Fractured” also includes a selection of Garmezy’s landscape photography, created without distortion, for those who prefer a more straightforward perspective. His 40year career as a geologist continues to inform his artistic practice as he chronicles the natural world.
Archway Gallery is located at 2305 Dunlavy, Houston, 77006. For more information, visit archwaygallery.com.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
PHOTOS: BEAR’s Stetsons & Stilettos event a roaring success
This year’s Stetsons & Stilettos evening event benefiting BEAR (BE A Resource for CPS Kids), a Oak-Forest based nonprofit, took place Oct. 6, 2024 at The Revaire. This is BEAR’s largest fundraiser of the year. This year’s event did not disappoint with 700 people in attendance.
Cash donations added to a record-breaking $683,000 at this year’s Stetsons and Stilettos event! Including inkind donations, the amount raised comes to more than $700,000.
Last year’s event with 500 guests raised $500,000 for BEAR, with a portion of the funds used to purchase a van to help transport supplies for at-risk children to and from its community partners in Houston and around the 12-county region. The funds are also allocated to four of BEAR’s key programs: BEAR Necessities, BEAR Back to School, BEARing Gifts and its newest program, Heart Gallery of Greater Houston. Learn more about BEAR at bearesourcehouston.org.
Submitted photos
Take a cell phone “cubist” selfie at Archway Gallery, Saturday.
Larry Garmezy’s Republic Bank, photograph through 400 year-old glass.
Larry Garmezy, “Maksim” photo taken through 400-year-old glass.
Photos by LISA MORALES
A longhorn greeted guests as they entered the Stetson & Stilettos event. Over 700 supporters were in attendance at BEAR’s largest fundraiser of the year.
