Lee Gilley, husband to Christa Gilley accused and charged with Capital Murder in Harris County, has been released on bond.
According to court records, Gilley was released on Oct. 21 after posting a $1 million bond, after Assistant District Attorney Lindsey Bondurant filed a motion to find aggravated circumstances to prevent his release:
“Aggravating facts specific to the nature of the case: The Defendant is accused of the capital murder of his wife and unborn child in the family home while the couple’s two young
children were also in the home,” Bondurant argued in the filing. “In the commission of the strangulation capital murder, the Defendant caused significant trauma [details omitted by editor]. Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 17.15, the nature of the offense and the circumstances under which the offense was committed are to be considered, as should the future safety of the community, which includes the Complainant’s two young children. The defendant also has significant ties out of state and sufficient means to flee the jurisdiction.” Gilley was ordered to wear a GPS device.
In a case that shocked the Houston Heights and surrounding communities, Gilley is accused of strangling his wife Christa, who was 8-9 weeks pregnant at the time, on the evening of Oct. 7, after an argument. His release on bond was not the news Christa’s family wanted to hear. Heights attorney Tim Ballengee issued a statement on their behalf: “Christa’s family remains focused on remembering Christa as a kind, welcoming, and selfless mother, friend, and daughter. We are deeply disappointed that the Defendant made bond just a week after Christa’s death, but we are focused on the safety and well being of Christa’s
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
The Kroger located at 1035 North Shepherd Drive in The Heights has officially wrapped up its significant remodel, following five months of renovations. The project represents a major investment in the store, enhancing the shopping experience for the local community. “Kroger has proudly served Houston since 1955, and it remains an exciting, innovative market for us. This year alone, we are making a multi-million-dollar investment to remodel 18 stores across Greater Houston as well as enhancing our grocery pickup and delivery services to continue providing our customers with a fresh and friendly shopping experience,” said Jesse Avelar, vice president of operations for Kroger.
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
As the Chevron Houston Marathon weekend approaches (January 2025 will be here before you know it!), Friends For Life, a Heights-based animal shelter, is gearing up to make a difference for animals in need by recruiting runners and walkers to join their running team. The event, scheduled for January 18-19, 2025, will be an opportunity for participants to not only achieve personal fitness goals but also raise critical funds that directly support the shelter’s mission. Friends For Life has set an ambitious fundraising goal of $125,000. These funds will help provide medical care, rehabilitation, and forever homes for the over 200 animals in their care, along with a steady stream of new arrivals. According to Louie Matta,
spokesperson for Friends For Life, the organization has participated in the Houston Marathon for years, and the event has become a vital part of their fundraising
By LISA MORALES
The Leader News Contributor
Cub Scout Pack 678, chartered to Oaks Presbyterian Church in Oak Forest, is preparing to celebrate an incredible milestone: 75 years of continuous service, learning, and growth within the scouting program.
On Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, the pack gathered for a special celebration marking not only its long history but also the support of the church and the Oak Forest community. For decades, Pack 678 has been a
cornerstone for local families, offering youth the opportunity to develop essential life skills through service projects like food drives, tree planting, and more. Pack 678 has been consistently supported by Oaks Presbyterian Church, which has played a crucial role in its success and longevity.
“We are fortunate to have a church family that has stood by scouting even through difficult times,” said Linda Blackmon, Cubmaster of Pack 648 and spokesperson for Cub Scout Pack 678.
Over the years, Blackmon has seen many changes within the scouting program. Reflecting on these changes, she noted, “Tiger Scouts used to earn beads for a lanyard, and Wolf and Bear scouts would earn arrow points. Now, all ranks earn belt loops, which are worn on a Cub Scout belt. Lions, or Kindergarteners, were also added in 2017.”
Another significant shift came in 2018 when girls were officially welcomed into Cub Scouts. “It’s great to see how the program has evolved to be more inclusive,” Blackmon added.
Jeff Bailey, the store leader at The Heights Kroger, expressed his enthusiasm for the store’s relaunch. “Kroger is excited for our neighbors to experience our newly redesigned store right here in the heart of The Heights. Our store is an essential part of this neighborhood, and I, along with my amazing team of 163 associates, cannot wait for everyone to come in, see the changes, and feel right at home.”
Despite these changes, the core values of Cub Scouting remain the same, including the motto “Do your best.” According to Blackmon, this message resonates with both children and adults, allowing room for mistakes, learning, and eventual success. “In Scouting, you ‘Do your best.’ This gives you room to fail, to improve, and to succeed,” she explained. “Seeing a child’s face when they’ve worked hard and accomplished a task is so rewarding. It’s the same for adults—
children. Christa’s family and loved ones want what is best for her children and support law enforcement’s efforts to bring justice for Christa and her unborn child.”
A capital murder charge is death penalty eligible in Texas.
Sixth-grader unites Houston musicians to raise funds for 15,000+ homeless animals
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Second Annual Melodies of Gratitude Concert set in the Heights for Oct. 26 at Resurrection MCC Church
Eleven-year-old animal lover, pianist, drummer, and founder of Wild Tunes, a local nonprofit that aims to soothe shelter animals through live music, Yuvaanh “Yuvi” Agarwal will join fellow musicians on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, for the second annual “Melodies of Gratitude” concert, benefiting three Houston-area animal shelters. The concert will take place at 4 p.m. at Resurrection MCC Church, 2025 11th Street in the Heights, with Zach Lashway, KPRC-TV anchor, serving as the emcee. The funds raised will benefit BARC AnimalShelter & Adoptions, Houston Humane Society, and
18, Kroger and vendor partner Kellanova presented $12,500 to No Kid Hungry, an organization committed to ensuring every kid has three healthy meals every day, as part of its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative.
The store, which had previously expanded by 40,000 square feet in 2010, began its latest remodel in May 2024. The project included several key upgrades focused on enhancing the customer experience: Expanded e-commerce
Special Pals.
“'Melodies of Gratitude' is a unique, creative platform for local musical talent to unite for a great cause – helping homeless animals lead a better life,” said Priyanka Agarwal, executive director of Wild Tunes. “The funds raised will help alleviate Houston's animal overpopulation crisis by supporting area shelters in their community engagement and education programs. Funds will also help local animal shelters cover costs of medical care, spay/neuter procedures, and boarding.”
Yuvi will open the concert with his original piano composition, Wings of Shakti. His performance will be followed by an eclectic range of musicians, including Bo Bottoms, a Texas-based singer/songwriter who is a regular at Houston area venues, such as the House of Blues, The Rustic, Truck Yard as well as annual
• Upgraded Murray’s Cheese experience
• Upgraded deli and bakery/ pastries department
• Upgraded meat/seafood department Refreshed shopping experience in center store aisles Refreshed wine/beer department, including the grocer’s only wine bar in Houston
Redesigned floral shop
• New decor and signage
• Soon-to-be-announced restaurant concept
The newly renovated store is open daily from 6 a.m.-11 p.m., while the wine bar operates from 2 p.m.-8 p.m.
appearances at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. In 2024, Bo released six songs.
Bottoms, an avid animal lover and owner of two rescue dogs has seen first-hand what soothing music can do for homeless animals.
“When I first heard about Wild Tunes' mission to soothe and comfort animals through music,” I was immediately drawn to the cause,” she said.
Musicians from the Energy Corridor of Houston
Orchestra (ECHO), a local organization that strives to connect orchestral music and the arts to inspire, educate, unite, and connect people of all ages and backgrounds will also perform this year. Sarah McDonner, executive director and founder will be on flute with John Markert on piano and Emily Tallent also on flute.
Other performers include: Tatum Hodgson, a cello player from the Rice University Shepherd School
of Music
• The Village School percussion and brass ensembles, led by Sarah Perkins.
Nrityakalpana, a local dance group
• Zaiden, a 9th grade flutist from Foster High School
• Fredrico and Olivia Pena, a sibling pair who play the piano and violin
The Wild Tunes program encourages musically inclined volunteers to bring their instruments to local shelters and play for the animals, easing their anxiety and helping them adjust to humans while they await fostering or adoption.
“My mission with Wild Tunes is to reduce the anxiety of shelter animals and help rebuild their relationships with humans, which can help increase their likelihood of adoption,” said Yuvi. “The concept is simple: volunteers come in a few times a month and casually practice their
instrument while making a difference in the lives of animals.”
The idea for Wild Tunes came about when Yuvi noticed how his music helped calm his dog, Bozo, and he wanted to extend the same soothing experience to shelter animals.
“Since launching Wild Tunes, we have learned how significant enrichment is to the lives of animals and volunteers alike,” Priyanka said. “When Yuvi created Wild Tunes, he intended to deliver a creative outlet that benefitted both animals and humans, and the response has been overwhelming.”
The Houston BARC Foundation has agreed to match BARC's portion of donations from the event. Melodies of Gratitude is free and open to the public. Those inspired by Yuvi’s program and the concert, can donate by visiting https://givebutter. com/melodiesofgratitude2.
Live at Live Oak: Celebrating Diwali
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Live music series continues at Memorial Park celebrating cultural holidays and traditions
Memorial Park Conservancy, along with presenting sponsor H-E-B, invite the community to celebrate Diwali during Live at Live Oak on October 26 from 5-8 PM. This FREE, familyfriendly live concert will be the second of four music events dedicated to different cultural holidays, highlighting the rich diversity of our community.
Set under the twinkling lights of Live Oak Court at the Clay Family Eastern Glades, these free concerts will bring music, dance, and joy together under the stars to celebrate unique cultural traditions. Guests can enjoy live music, fun activities and more.
Celebrating Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, the October event will feature
a performance by Hamza Amir and Live Band. A local artist based in Houston, Hamza was the quarter finalist of a singing reality show in Pakistan. His impressive stage experience includes opening for renowned artists like Arijit Singh, Junoon, Richa Sharma and Ali Sethi. From singing ghazals to performing bhangra sets, Hamza and his band showcase an impressive range of genres and styles.
Attendees can enjoy complimentary samosas from
leaders try different approaches, and when they succeed, it’s just as fulfilling.”
As the community celebrate the 75th anniversary of Cub Scout Pack 678, Blackmon emphasized the strong leadership and family involvement that have helped keep the pack thriving.
Kati Roll Wala and delicious desserts from Raja Sweets, offered on a first-come, firstserved basis, along with free soft drinks and bottled water. Guests can also grab giveaways while supplies last and enjoy free henna tattoos provided by Henna Love. Live at Live Oak, presented by H-E-B, will continue its concert series in the new year, honoring Lunar New Year in January. The series will conclude in February with a final celebration for Black History Month.
a testament to the dedication of its leaders and the support from Oaks Presbyterian Church and the wider Oak Forest community.
For those interested in learning more about Cub Scouting, Blackmon encourages families to reach out.
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 5-8 p.m.
RSVP: The event is free and open to the public. Registration is not required, but RSVPs are highly encouraged. To RSVP, please go to www.memorialparkconservancy.org/events/live-atlive-oak
WHERE: Live Oak Court at Clay Family Eastern Glades in Memorial Park, 6502 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007
PARKING: Clay Family Eastern Glades has parking on-site. Paid parking ($2 for 3 hours) is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Clay Family Eastern Glades lot, Fitness Center lot, and Golf Course lot. Free street parking is available along Memorial Loop Drive. Refer to the Memorial Park parking map for more parking options.
INFO: For more information on the music series, visit www.memorialparkconservancy.org/events/live-atlive-oak
and spirit of the scouting program—it’s a reflection of the Oak Forest community’s dedication to creating a positive, nonjudgmental environment for youth to grow and thrive.
“The pack has a strong leadership base with trained leaders in every den and great family support,” she noted. The longevity of the pack is
“Anyone who is curious about joining or learning more about Cub Scouting can contact me at 713-416-6301 or via email at coachteach@ juno.com,” she said.
Pack 678’s 75th-anniversary celebration is more than a testament to the resilience
As Blackmon put it, “It’s all about giving children and adults the space to succeed by doing their best, learning from their failures, and celebrating their victories.” With this milestone, Pack 678 looks forward to continuing its service and impact in the community for many years to come.
Charles Colin Blesener
September 25, 1944 - October 16, 2024
Charles Colin Blesener, known as Chuck, was born on September 25, 1944, in Houston, Texas, to Ambrose Joseph and Rita Augusta (Kraft) Blesener. He passed away on October 16, 2024, in Austin, Texas, at the age of 80.
Chuck was the beloved husband of Jeanette Joyce Blesener for over 56 years, and they lived in Shepard Park Plaza for 43 years. Together they had two daughters, Susan and Diane, and enjoyed their much-loved granddaughter, Robin. Chuck is also survived by his sons-in-law, David Jackson and Kaushik Ramakrishnan, grandson-in-law Jonathan Spooner, and his six siblings, Betty, Frank, Billy, John, Robert and Nick.
Chuck graduated from Mt Carmel High School in Houston in 1962 and attended the University of Houston. He began his 30-year career in telephone system repair with Southwestern Bell in 1966, retiring from AT&T in 1996. With his wife Jeanette, he moved to Lake Livingston in 2017. He was an avid hunter and spent much of his retirement either on his farm or in his garage or workshop making and repairing things. For many years, he and Jeanette dressed as Santa and Mrs Claus and brought joy to children and special needs adults in their community in Houston.
A Liturgical Funeral Mass was held at Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Livingston, Texas, with Fr. Paul Kahan officiating.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the following organizations: St. Joseph Catholic Church Heart to Heart, Polk County Agrilife, St. Rose of Lima Food Pantry (Houston), or Texas Parks and Wildlife.
Photo courtesy of Kroger
During the unveiling of Heights Kroger’s months-long renovations, Kroger and vendor partner Kellanova presented $12,500 to No Kid Hungry.
PACK 678, from P. 1
Image Courtesy of Memorial Park Conservancy Celebrating Diwali
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THE TOPICS.
One man, one vote, one state
How can I put this to you gently? When you vote for the President of the United States, if you vote for Kamala Harris, it won’t count. Texas is a red state, and all 40 Electoral College votes will go to Donald Trump. However, there are several interesting down-ballot elections that might change the future -- just ask Henry Shoemaker -- which means taking a fresh look at an old story – I ran this column four years ago but it’s worth repeating.
Shoemaker was a simple farmhand from Smithfield Township, DeKalb County, Indiana. On the first Monday of August, 1842, elections were held for local offices. In addition, reapportionment had given DeKalb and an adjoining county, Steuben, a single representative to the Indiana House. The two candidates were Enos Beall, a Whig, and Madison Marsh, a Democrat. On Election Day Shoemaker remembered that he had met Marsh during the campaign and had promised to vote for him, so Shoemaker saddled up a horse and rode 12 miles into Kendallville, arriving at the polling place late in the afternoon.
“When he applied to vote,”
the Indiana Committee on Elections later reported, “the inspector handed him a sheet of tickets, but as all of them contained the names of Enos Beall for Representative, he enquired (sic) for ‘another kind,’ and the inspector hand ed him a sheet of tickets with the name of Madison Marsh for Representative, that he then enquired of the same in spector if he ‘had scissors or a knife to cut them with,’ and the latter handed him a pen knife.” Not wishing to vote the straight ticket of either party, Shoemaker proceeded, quite literally, to split his ballots. As the voting officials looked on, Shoemaker cut out the name of Marsh from one ballot along with the others he wanted, then cut other names from the second sheet. He handed the clippings to the inspector -- four separate pieces of paper, three small sheets inside a larger one. The inspector accepted the papers without a word, and put them in the ballot box. Shoemaker hung around the voting site for an hour or more, but no one said anything about his unusual ballot. Later, however, when the tabulation began, the voting officials threw out
were 360 votes for Marsh and 360 votes for Beall. The sheriffs “by casting lots” chose Beall as the winner. Marsh immediately appealed to the Committee on Elections, which held extensive hearings on the matter. (It is from the Indiana Commission on Public Records and the Library of Congress that I dug out this story.)
The committee found that in Smithfield township only 16 votes were cast for representative, all of them for either Marsh or Beall; that there was only one person named Henry Shoemaker in the township, he was a qualified voter; and he had voted “openly with no appearance of concealment
or subterfuge” and had not tried to vote more than once, that the inspector had accepted Shoemaker’s ballot had put it in the box himself; and “we have the uncontradicted oath of Henry Shoemaker, that he did intend to vote for Madison Marsh for the office of Representative.” Also, the committee noted that it was the inspector’s own knife which was used in the surgery. “In summing up the whole matter, your committee find (sic) that Madison Marsh has received a majority of the legal votes, if they had all been counted, and the voice of the ballot box had been properly regarded, and that he is therefore entitled to the contested seat.” The Indiana House agreed, and Marsh -a Democrat -- took his seat in the Legislature by a single vote.
Prior to the 17th Amendment, U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures. In 1842, the main candidates for the U.S. Senate from Indiana were Oliver H. Smith, the Whig senator who was up for re-election, and the Democratic candidate, Gen. Tilghman A. Howard. Another candidate, Edward A. Hannegan, was a dark horse.
The Indiana Senate joined the House and on the first ballot, to everyone’s surprise, neither candidate got a majority. On the sixth ballot Smith got 69 votes. Howard got one vote and Hannegan, the dark horse, got the magic 76, making him the new senator from Indiana. Hannegan’s winning vote was supplied by Madison “Landslide” Marsh.
Four years later, in 1846, the U.S. Senate was bitterly divided over whether to declare war on Mexico. A caucus of the Democratic senators, which comprised the majority, was called to determine which way they would vote, but the vote in the caucus was a tie. Then it was determined that one senator was not present: Edward Hannegan of Indiana. He was sent for and promptly voted “Aye” for war. It broke the tie, fixed the Democrats’ decision, and war was declared – by one vote.
That is how Shoemaker is best remembered in Indiana, yet there is one more point to be made. The war in Mexico was touched off by the U.S. annexation of Texas one year earlier. John Tyler was president, having taken office upon the death of William Henry Harrison. That left the vice
presidency empty. The move to annex Texas had failed as a treaty, which needed a twothirds vote in the Senate, so Tyler tried again -- this time as a simple resolution, which needed only a majority, not two-thirds. It passed, 27 to 25. If any senator supporting annexation had changed his mind, there would have been a 26-26 tie. There being no vice president to break the deadlock, annexation would have failed and Texas would have remained an independent republic. For the record, Sen. Hannegan voted for it. Thus we see how that one vote put Texas in the Union and put us under Washington, which is why to this day, Texans shout as one: “Curse you, Henry Shoemaker!”
Ashby votes 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.
OPINION: Open letter from Harvard Elementary PTA
This letter was originally published on the Harvard Elementary School PTA website at https:// harvardelementarypta. org/letter. Reprinted with permission.
A Message from the PTA President
October 15, 2024
Dear Harvard Community,
First, I want to extend my sincere thanks to each of you for allowing Maggie and me the opportunity to represent you on the recent town hall call with HISD. Your support of the PTA and your belief in our school is truly inspiring. I’ve personally received numerous texts, emails, and messages of encouragement, offers of help, and thanks. It’s clear that we are united in our commitment to the success of Harvard Elementary
and its students.
While the call had positive aspects, I must express frustration with its format. Many parents could not participate due to how it was implemented and technical issues, leaving voices unheard and concerns unaddressed. This is deeply disappointing for such an important conversation.
That said, we did find common ground during the call. HISD and the Harvard community agree on several key points: We want the best educational experience for our students.
Rigor is essential and necessary in education.
Preserving the IB PYP framework at Harvard is in the best interest of our school and community.
However, we disagree on how the district is trying to achieve these goals. Harvard has historically maintained excellent ratings and pro-
vided a rigorous education without the need for the significant changes now being imposed. It’s possible to have both rigor and an outstanding educational experience without this overhaul—this is being done successfully in many other districts, and it’s what our community wants.
The district’s coup d’etatstyle takeover of Harvard has left our community frustrated and disheartened. We were promised autonomy under the district’s framework, yet we now find ourselves without local leadership, with a district-appointed overseer. HISD claims that local leaders made these decisions, but after speaking with leaders from Harvard and other schools, it’s clear they were not given real choices. For example, I’ve been told by a principal from another school that, while autonomy was granted, at the time of choosing, only NES-based curriculums were financially
supported by the district and district would not provide additional teaching support for other curriculums. This left them with no real options.
Currently, our teachers are under extreme stress and fear for their jobs. Some are even considering leaving Harvard, and this morning I heard from parents who are now exploring private school options due to the uncertainty we face. This is not just about the families currently at Harvard. It’s about the entire community—the families who live here, our neighbors, and even local officials. Harvard has long been a cornerstone of this community. Families chose to live here because of Harvard, the way it was, not the way HISD is trying to change it. This issue concerns everyone in the community, including City of Houston officials, because Harvard is a public school that has helped build a thriving, highly regarded part of
Houston.
Even if you don’t have children attending Harvard, your neighbors and friends do. We are asking for help from the city and the broader community. We need your support. HISD talks about accountability, but we cannot keep them accountable without help from our local leaders and the greater Houston community. We remain committed to working constructively and respectfully with HISD. We all want the same outcome: an excellent educational experience for our students. We can find a path forward that the community and HISD can agree on. But let’s not forget that we are a community of grit, determination, and collaboration. We are a respectful community. We do this for the benefit of our children, and we know what’s best for our community because we live in it together.
I am working with Ms.
Craft on a follow-up meeting to continue working together constructively. The goal of the meeting is to gain a deeper understanding of the facts surrounding the current situation so that we can work towards a win-win solution for both the district and our school community. Thank you for standing with us.
Sincerely,
Anar Abasov PTA President, Harvard Elementary 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.
pets.” Matta emphasized that this opportunity isn’t just for seasoned athletes. “We have participants from all walks of life and all ages, from those aiming for competitive times to others simply enjoying a walk for a good cause.”
The Friends For Life running team is open to both runners and walkers, with participants given the option to choose between the full marathon, half marathon, and 5K. Runners of all abilities are welcome to join, from those running for personal bests to those taking a more leisurely approach to the event. This inclusive approach ensures that anyone with a passion for animals can get involved.
To help with fundraising efforts, runners can select an animal from the shelter as a “mascot” of sorts, letting supporters know which Friends For Life shelter animal, specifically, is tugging at their heart strings. Katherine Camerine, for example, is running with the Friends For Life running team for the third year in a row to raise awareness for Marcy, the cat, who has long been looking for her forever home. Meanwhile, 9-year-old Perry Taylor is running for his favorite Friends For Life dog, Julia.
Each runner will receive a personalized fundraising page, which they can share with friends, family, and supporters to gather donations. Matta noted that many participants have found this approach deeply rewarding, as it allows them to form a personal connection to the cause they’re running for.
“Knowing that every dollar raised is helping to save the life of an animal makes all the hard work and preparation worthwhile,” he said. Funds raised from the
marathon will be used to support Friends For Life’s various initiatives, including their innovative food pantry program. The pet food pantry is a lifeline for families facing financial hardships, ensuring they don’t have to choose between caring for their pets and meeting other essential needs.
Matta recalled one story that stuck with him: “I recently spoke with someone who had lost his job and was forced to choose between feeding his kids or his dog. We told him we could provide pet food, no questions asked, so he could keep his family – including his dog – together.”
This program is just one of the many ways Friends For Life is dedicated to preventing animals from entering the shelter system and helping families in crisis. As the first and only shelter in Houston with a comprehensive food pantry year-round, Friends For Life ensures that no pet goes hungry, even during tough times.
The shelter’s efforts extend beyond providing food and medical care. Friends For Life is committed to ensuring that every animal adopted from their facility has ongoing support for life. They offer free behavioral consultations to adopters, helping to address any challenges that may arise after an animal has found its new home.
“We want to minimize the chances of any animal having to return to the shelter,” Matta explained. “Our goal is to set both the pet and the family up for success.”
The Chevron Houston Marathon, which attracts thousands of runners and spectators every year, is one of the largest sporting events in Houston. It offers participants a chance to not
only challenge themselves physically, but also contribute to a meaningful cause. Friends For Life hopes to tap into the energy and excitement of the event to bring awareness to their mission.
For those interested in joining the Friends For Life running team, registration is open now. Runners can sign up through the Friends For Life website, select the animal they wish to use as their booster, and begin raising funds.
In addition to marathon runners, Friends For Life is also encouraging the broader community to get involved. Whether through sponsorships, donations, or volunteering at the shelter, there are numerous ways for Houstonians to support the cause.
“We are always looking for more support and volunteers, and every contribution, big or small, helps make a real difference,” Matta said.
“Approved volunteers can stop by for even just an hour, taking one of our dogs for a walk, which is a huge relief and enables us to spend time with another animal. Better yet, we love it when volunteers take a pet home for a sleepover or a weekend, it’s proven to be
Explore Arts District Houston: A hub of creativity and culture
By LISA MORALES
The Leader News Contributor
Nestled in the heart of the Washington Avenue Corridor, Arts District Houston is a vibrant cultural district that boasts the highest concentration of working artists in Texas. This state-appointed Arts and Cultural District spans portions of Houston’s historic First and Sixth Wards, creating a space where creativity thrives, and art, history, and community intersect. Managed by the nonprofit Fresh Arts, the district is a testament to Houston's dedication to cultivating local talent and fostering a thriving creative economy.
Arts District Houston is more than a collection of studios and galleries; it is a dynamic swath of space that celebrates the diversity of Houston’s artists through public art installations, artist residencies, and a variety of community events. With restaurants, bars, breweries, and retail shops scattered throughout, it offers a truly immersive cultural experience for Houstonians and visitors alike.
As part of its mission, the district collaborates with local artists to build opportunities for growth and visibility. Fresh Arts, which has managed Arts District Houston since 2017, amplifies these efforts with artist-centered public art projects and programming that draw attention to the district's creative diversity. “Through Arts District Houston, we aim to connect the greater community with the incredible talent here,” says a representative from Fresh Arts. “Our goal is to build capacity for artists, foster community engagement, and shape our local creative economy responsibly.”
Upcoming Events in the Arts District
This October, Arts District Houston is inviting the public to explore and engage with the district’s vibrant culture through a series of
photos
to capture the celebration.
free events. On October 26, the community can join the Urban Paths Walk from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. This guided 3-mile tour, led by Laura Conely, founder of Urban Paths, will take participants through the district’s public art and historical landmarks, offering a unique look at the rich cultural heritage that defines the area. Each walker will receive an eco-friendly aluminum water bottle from HOW Water, and a Spanish language interpreter will ensure that everyone can join in the fun.
“Join us for the 713 Art Walk in Houston's 6th Ward! Experience our vibrant arts scene, immerse yourself in culture, and enjoy local performances,” says Jenny Gustafson, with Like Minds Talk. “Together, we’ll celebrate community and health through nature and movement. Let’s connect and appreciate the beauty of the Arts District!”
After the walk, at 11:30 a.m., attendees can witness the unveiling of a brand-new mural by local artist David Maldonado, also known as CAPDAVJON. This MexicanAmerican visual artist draws inspiration from folk art, street culture, and the Mexican muralist movement, creating works that resonate with shared human experiences and cultural identity. The mural unveiling will take place at 1401 Silver Street and will be accompanied by light hors d'oeuvres and a photographer
highly beneficial to the animal, because shelter life can be stressful.”
As the shelter prepares for marathon weekend, Matta noted that Friends For Life also hosts group training runs for participants, encouraging team members to train together every Monday evening.
“It’s more than just running a race—it’s about building a community of people who care about animals,” he said.
“And, of course, it’s go-atyour-own-pace. There’s no pressure.”
The shelter’s unique programs, including the food pan-
try and behavioral support, are sustained by fundraising efforts like the Chevron Houston Marathon. Matta summed it up by saying, “At the end of the day, it’s all about the animals. The funds we raise help keep them healthy, happy, and ready to find their forever homes.” For more information about joining the running team or supporting Friends For Life, please visit their website at https://friends4life.org/ marathon. #RunforaReason
Maldonado’s work, deeply personal and rooted in his heritage, is a reflection of the stories and cultural identity of Houston’s diverse communities. “Drawing from my personal experiences growing up, my art tells stories that resonate with shared human experiences and cultural identity,” says Maldonado.
Supporting Local Talent and the Creative Economy
The goal of Arts District Houston is not only to provide a platform for local artists but also to stimulate economic development through the creative industries. By fostering an environment where artists can showcase their work and by providing resources for their growth, the district is ensuring that Houston retains top artistic talent while continuing to attract new cultural industries. Through initiatives like the 713 Walk and public art projects, the district provides opportunities for Houstonians to engage with local art in ways that enrich both the community and the individuals who participate. “We want people to come for the art and stay for the connection,” says a Fresh Arts representative. “These experiences allow people to see the depth of talent in Houston while contributing to the creative economy that enhances the livability of our neighborhoods.”
With its mix of artist studios, public art, and cultural events, Arts District Houston offers something for everyone—from art enthusiasts to curious newcomers. To explore all the district has to offer, visit their website at https://fresharts.org/artsdistrict-houston/ for itineraries and interactive maps to guide your journey through one of Houston’s most creative and lively areas.
Friends For Life running team member Erin runs for her friend, shelter dog T-Rex.
Submitted
Artist David Maldonado, also known as CAPDAVJON, created this mural at Fresh Art's offices at Sawyer Yards.
Listen sculpture by artist Anthony Shumate is a public art installation in Buffalo Bayou Park.
Art Valet: Tales from the Art Market Trenches: Chaos, dreams, early birds — and a fun Halloween event
This week, I feel like waxing poetic—not the true definition of the phrase, which obviously references poetry and eloquence. I’m leaning toward more disjointed verbosity, randomness, or perhaps I should just say…me. I am king of random!
A friend recently suggested (quite strongly) that I write a book about my experience with outdoor art markets—a guide for artists and perhaps people thinking about starting their own market. I have the experience, notes, and very interesting stories.
For readers who don’t know me, I started Houston’s first monthly art market in 2004. Houston had its festivals, bazaars, and one fledgling farmers market that started that same year— nothing like a regular art market, though.
My experience came through trial and error, and very early on. By early, I mean about 5:45 in the morning. Back then, the market hours were 9 to 5, and I told the artists to come set up around 7 a.m.
I would arrive at 6 a.m.,
Mitch cohen Art Columnist artvalet@gmail.com
and there were already people waiting for me. Once, someone was actually pitching their tent before I even got there. They had to move, of course—not even in the market area. I changed the hours eventually. That reminds me (random moment): the only type of dreams—actually, nightmares—I have about the market are setup disasters! The dreams aren’t too different from that gentleman who set up on the sidewalk. In the dreams, I always get delayed and arrive late. The artists have all set up their tents wherever they felt like it. There’s no order to the layout; they’re spread out too far, on the sidewalks, etc. It’s all just chaos. Fortunately, I’ve never
missed a day or arrived late at my market. (I’m knocking on my wooden desk!) I still get early birds, but I’m smiling at them now. I could be quite ornery back in the day
over early arrivals. I’m participating in a market this Saturday that only good dreams are made of. The organizers of this event have thought of everything, from
easy-to-read instructions to treats for the vendors.
Saturday, I return to The Market Square Park Farmers Market with about 16 talented would-be early birds. The artists join a thriving weekly farmers market organized by Central City Co-Op and hosted by Downtown Houston. The market is this Saturday, Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The theme this week is a Halloween block party with trick-or-treating at vendor booths, a pumpkin
patch, and a costume contest for kids and even dogs. The music will be by the Hooligans Quartet. I covered this market in Art Valet in The Leader on Sept. 28. Link Market Square Park is located at 301 Milam Street. For more information, visit https://downtownhouston. org.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Make-up Date: Families with Pride celebration rescheduled for Oct. 26
Council Member Kamin’s family-friendly event set for Oct. 26 at Discovery Green
The third-annual Families with Pride citywide celebration, originally scheduled for June, has been rescheduled to take place on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, to align with LGBTQIA+ History Month. This familyfriendly event, led by Houston City Council Member Abbie Kamin, District C, in partnership with the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, Mayor’s Office of Special Events and Discovery Green®, celebrates LGBTQIA+ families and the rich history and
contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Families with Pride offers an inclusive environment to support and celebrate LGBTQIA+ children, families, and allies.
“Families with Pride was created to ensure Houston’s LGBTQIA+ families and allies have a place where they feel embraced and celebrated,” Kamin said. “I’m grateful we were able to reschedule this incredible event. During October, as we honor the contributions and achievements of
our Houston LGBTQIA+ community, this festival provides a safe and welcoming space for children, families, and allies to celebrate together and learn about the history. I thank everyone who continues to lift up and make this festival a success.”
The festival will feature engaging activities for all ages, including live entertainment, art projects, Pride Storytime, and the popular Curiosity Cruiser. Attendees can enjoy food trucks, face painting, a photo booth, yard games, and more. The event will also feature the LGBTQ+ History Tent in partnership with
The Banner Project, University of Houston Library Archives, and Rice University, where guests can explore the immersive History of Pride.
For our furry friends, the Proud Puppy Pawty will kick off at 9 a.m. at the Discovery Green Dog Run, with prizes awarded for the most creative pet costumes.
Tammi Wallace, Co-Founder, President & CEO of the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, shared her excitement about the event’s return during LGBTQIA+ History Month: “Families with Pride is a
wonderful opportunity to celebrate the unique beauty and strength of LGBTQIA+ families. This rescheduled date, during LGBTQIA+ History Month, allows us to celebrate families as well as uplift our history and the community's incredible resilience, reminding us of the progress we’ve made and the work still ahead.”
WHAT: Families With Pride WHERE: Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 – 8:30-11:30am
The Wild Robot Is Dreamworks’ Swan Song
Elliott’s rating: ★★★ ½ / ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Back in elementary school, my school had a program, One Book One School, in which every single student read the exact same book. The book we would end up reading would be the most influential piece of writing I would read in my elementary years: The Wild Robot by Peter Brown. This book was my first introduction to concepts like death, loss, and even emotions like sadness or grief. The book didn’t necessarily make me feel sad, but it definitely made me feel. What made this ‘event’ even more special was when, at the end of the year, the school launched a surprise assembly hosted by the author!
All these factors ended up culmi-
nating in a wave of nostalgia hitting me when I saw that a film adaptation for the original book was coming. I was intrigued as to how a slow, more somber children's book would be adapted for film. Unsurprisingly, The Wild Robot is a piece of animated cinema. The film tackles the same more mature topics as the book. It handles them all well and isn’t afraid to make jokes about things like death or sadness. This all makes the first 10 min-
utes of the film more jarring. These first 10 minutes are extremely fastpaced—way too much for its own good. Everything is way too lighthearted as well. Some of the action even feels Looney Tunes-esque. Luckily, the film finds its footing pretty quickly. Once the robot is forced to raise a gosling, the film slows down. At its core, The Wild Robot is a film about parenthood and, even more importantly, found family. We slowly get to understand the robot (named Raz)’s slow growth into becoming a more caring individual. By the end of the movie, Raz is more emotional than any of the human characters.
Raz herself is animated beautifully. She’s able to have a robotic build without sacrificing her facial expressions.
There’s a migration scene in particular that I can’t get out of my head because of how downright beautiful the visuals were. Seriously, seeing this movie on a huge screen really made everything feel more alive.
Once everything seems to be wrapped up, the movie makes a sudden pivot to a much less grounded direction. Suddenly, Roz and all of her newfound animal buddies are attacked by a gang of evil androids.
Now, it’s up to Roz to save the day once and for all! Just like the beginning, this ending is almost jarring in how sudden it all happens. The action is beautiful but, overall, this is a rushed and inappropriate way to end the film.
The Wild Robot is a beautifully
made film, for the most part. It’s one of the best thematically interesting animated films of this year. However, the execution doesn’t follow through all the way, with bits of this film that feel originated from a much different, worse movie. If the book could’ve helped me deal with my complex emotions back in elementary, I’m grateful that a movie can do that for the children of today.
Elliott Stewart is a Heights-based 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.
Submitted photo
Take a cell phone “cubist” selfie at Archway Gallery, Saturday.
Photo by Ronda Wenger
Art booths on Preston St. at Market Square Park Farmers Market.
