Leader 1-26 by The Heights Leader, Fort Bend Star and The Greensheet

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Wow, is all we can say. Bowwow and me-wow. The reaction to our Leader Loveables contest has exceeded all expectations, with voters clicking on our website in record numbers that climb higher each day, and ballots arriving by hand and mail by the dozens. Deadline is 5 p.m. Jan. 28 to cast your vote – once a day online at www.theleadernews.com or by print ballot from The Leader (copies are allowed). The goal is to whittle down the ﬁeld of more than 100 of our readers’ most purrfect cats and darling dogs, submitted by their owners, to the ﬁve top vote-getters, who will then be designated Leader Loveables and pick up a whole slew of prizes. We’ll bring you the tail-wagging good news on the winners next week. See the pets one last time on Pages 4B, 5B and 6B.

Effort to spruce-up Stevens brings community together by Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

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WHAT: The 14th annual Super Bowl Barbecue Dinner, provided by Boy Scout Troop 40 from St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. WHEN: Noon-6 p.m. Feb. 2; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 3 WHERE: At the church, 3600 Brinkman. HOW MUCH: $10 for a plate that includes a choice of chicken or beef and sausage, along with savory homemade buttered potatoes and seasoned green beans, condiments and a drink. Or if you’re feeding a crowd, you can order a whole brisket for $60 or a party pack for $7 a head, with a 20-person minimum. LEARN MORE: Call 713-444-2972 or write chriscarroll93@gmail.com for info or advance purchase. EDITOR’S TAKE: Instead of stressing over the Big Game, queue up for this legendary ’cue and forget slaving over dips, cheese platters, buﬀalo wings and pizza. Just ice some drinks, and you’re good to go.

THE INDEX.

Public Safety Hipstrict Topics Obituaries Coupons Puzzles Sports Classiﬁeds

Stevens ﬁfth-grader Esau Albarran came with his dad Ecsau and other family to help Saturday. After cleaning the courtyard, Esau got to take home the pecans that had fallen, a real treat for him. (Photo by Betsy Denson)

2A 5A 4A 8B 6A 8B 9B 7A

Organizers of the first beautification day at Stevens Elementary delayed the event by a week and crossed their fingers for better weather. Not only did the new date coincide with the President’s National Day of Service Saturday, but the sun was shining for the nearly 50 volunteers who showed up ready to work. Gardening, power washing the exterior walls and painting classroom doors in eye-popping primary colors were all on the agenda. Principal Lucy Anderson brought donuts, and volunteers worked steadily throughout the morning. Some volunteers were made aware of the service opportunity though the Stand for Stevens Facebook page. There were also several volunteer groups including Girl Scout Troop 12016, the Lamar High School Honor Society, BESO (Bilingual Education Student Organization) from the University of Houston–Downtown and members of St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church. Senior Pastor Kevin Otto said that St. Stephen’s had been planning a monthly outreach program and that the beautification day was a natural fit for their first outing. “St. Stephen’s has a long history with the school,” said Otto.“We’ve had Stevens

St. Stephen’s volunteer Chris Barcus brightens up the school by painting a classroom door. (Photo by Betsy Denson) teachers in the congregation for many years who have volunteered there after retirement. We wanted to be a part of the rejuvenation of the school.” Students, parents and teachers were also on hand. Kenneth Huddleston is in his seventh year as a math and science teacher at Stevens. “I appreciate the faculty here,” he said.

“And these are really nice kids.” Supervising the painting was school clerk Rickey Donato who, along with art teacher Matthew Juarez, is responsible for the school’s distinctive Mustang mural. Donato used to work as an artist in residence at Blackshear Elementary and

by Charlotte Aguilar charlotte@theleadernews.com A Heights mom, famous for her pies and tarts, who not long ago led her neighborhood school PTO, was chosen by trustees last week to head the Houston ISD school board. District I Trustee Anna Eastman ‚ who represents most Leader-area neighborhoods and is known for frequently bucking the majority on the board ‚ was elected unanimously and took over the gavel on the spot. It was a leap forward from this time last year when Eastman, who had been serving as a board vice president, expressed her interest in leading the trustees but was passed over for the job in an awkward compromise that saw one of her allies become Anna Eastman president. Eastman was INSIDE ﬁrst elected to the board in 2009 • Q&A with the new largely through HISD board president the efforts of Parent Visionaries, a PAGE 10A grassroots reform group. She became a watchdog for magnet schools and school choice when Superintendent Terry Grier attempted major changes, was a major architect of board ethics reform which passed last year, opposed a contract extension for Grier, and has expressed concerns about HISD’s monitoring of the district’s huge bond programs that have helped lead to increased oversight. At times, she’s also decried the district’s emphasis on construction, worrying more about what goes on in the classrooms than whether they’re state-of-the-art. It’s the second year that a Parent Visionary reformer has been elected HISD board president. Eastman succeeds Michael Lunceford, who represents schools in southwest Houston. She praised Lunceford for his leadership during a year when the district passed its largest bond ever – $1.89 billion – and tightened its own ethics rules. And in a common theme of hers‚ the need for open discussion of HISD issues rather than board rub-

see Stevens • Page 10A

see Eastman • Page 10A

Reporting from DC: Ram Band soaks up inaugural activities by Isabella Zamora For The Leader It was part pomp-and-circumstance, part fairytale for more than 150 members of the Waltrip Ram Band and their entourage over last weekend, as they ventured to the Nation’s Capital for presidential inaugural activities. Musicians, chaperones and security were scheduled to come down to earth and return to Houston late Tuesday. While members stayed in Virginia, they launched into sightseeing in the nation’s capital immediately, visiting the Mall and Lincoln Memorial Friday afternoon. “The bus ride was a little long, but I was just pumped to be headed to Washington,” Jared Adams said.

The band played Texas-centric songs and more at the traditional Black Tie & Boots Ball Saturday night sponsored by the Texas State Society. Non-uniformed adults with the band were decked out in formal wear. (Photos by Isabella Zamora) “The ﬁrst day was fun,” said Cesar Velasquez. “It was cool seeing all the history.”

That night they took over a Buca di Beppo restaurant in the heart of D.C. to fuel up for

their busiest day on Saturday. The band members got a chance to show off what they do best – play music – in the shadow of the iconic Iwo Jima Memorial Saturday morning, just outside Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The sky was blue and the weather was crisp as band members, in full uniform, made the ﬁrst appearance of their hard-earned trip to perform at presidential inaugural events. “It was special because I have family in the Marine Corps, so I was playing for them,” said 11th-grader Gregory Vega, Jr. “It was a good experience performing at Iwo Jima,” echoed 11th-grader Nataly Ochoa.

see Band • Page 10A

Page 2A • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

Crime Briefs: Do-gooder done wrong So much for trying to help a guy in apparent need. A 42-year-old man had just left a church service at Oaks Presbyterian Church on Chantilly Lane last Sunday around 7 p.m., and while walking to his car, another man yelled out to him, asking for a ride to a near-by park. According to Houston Police Department Spokesman John Cannon, it wasn’t necessarily a mistake to be a Good Samaritan, but things sure didn’t turn out well in this case. Police say the approaching man asked for a ride just a few blocks south to Oak Forest Park, and the driver of the car obliged. Once the two arrived at the park, the passenger grabbed the driver’s cell phone, got out of the car, and began walking away with it. “The victim then got out of his car and asked to have his phone back,” Cannon said. At that point, the now-suspect turned around, reached into his shirt and said he had a gun. Though the victim never actually saw the gun, Cannon said he did the wise thing. “He quickly backed away and didn’t try to do anything else,” Cannon said. Well, that’s not exactly true. In this case, the victim did a few very smart things. First, he noticed that the suspect, a Hispanic male, weighing between 130-150 pounds, had a star tattoo on the left side of his neck. The victim also was able to give a good description to police. The suspect was carrying a basketball, was wearing black jeans and a white baseball cap. He also had a blue backpack. Police have not arrested a suspect, but Cannon said the victim did exactly what law enforcement says should be done in a situation like this. “It’s hard to do, especially when your heart is

racing three for four times faster than normal, but get as many details as you can,” Cannon said. If anyone has information about a suspect matching that description – especially the tattoo on the left side of the neck – call the HPD Robbery Division at (713) 308-0700. – Jonathan McElvy

Gas station robbery

HPD is investigating the robbery of a 58-yearold woman at a Chevron station at 6633 Washington Ave. According to police, the woman was approached at 12:30 a.m. on Sunday by a black male wearing a leopard-print bandana over his face. The suspect allegedly told the woman to hand over her money, and when she reached inside her car to get her purse, the suspect snatched it and left. The suspect left in a green colored car and a driver was waiting on him.

Teens nabbed in burglary, ransacking of 2 Oak Forest homes

A 13-year-old and 16-year-old were arrested Monday, suspected of not just burglarizing two Oak Forest homes but ransacking them, vandalizing one and terrorizing one of the victims, according to a report from ABC-13. The teens were apparently interested in stealing jewelry, and only some was recovered. In the ﬁrst case, the suspects are linked to ransacking and defacing the home of a 93-yearold World War II veteran, who came home from a doctor’s appointment to ﬁnd the spray paint throughout the house on furniture, walls and

a television, and items missing. Police tracked down and arrested the pair and linked them to an earlier incident a few blocks away at a home on Randon Road, northwest of 43rd and Mangum. That homeowner walked in on the teens, who confronted him with his own shotgun, according to the ABC-13 report. “I don’t know if he tried to shoot it, but it jammed,” the homeowner said. As in the other case, jewelry seemed to be the target. Only some was recovered. Among the items missing: a wedding ring.

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Law enforcement officials are shooting down a rumor that supposedly originated with a local constable’s office, warning people to be careful at gas stations and parking lots. “There is a syndicate of criminals presenting themselves as sales promoters who are giving free key rings at gas stations and parking lots,” the email – which has gone viral – warns. “The key ring has a tracking device chip which allows the criminals to track and follow you...They select their seemingly well-to-do potential victims and if you accept, you might become a victim of their tricks. The key holders are very beautiful and hard to resist accepting; but remember, you may end up paying more than the cost of a key holder, including the risk to your life.” The warning ends with a plea to fan out the email to family, friends and email contracts. According to Snopes.com, an independent verifier of rumors and urban legends, the item is false. Snopes traces its origins to August 2008 in South Africa, and updated its website to reflect the resurfacing of the bogus warning this month in Houston.

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Page 3A • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

Ad # 33365

Local duo revs up for big race with send-off

Chi C. MAO, M.D. Ph.D. Certiﬁed By American Board of Internal Medicine

by Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com A Reagan High graduate and a Waltrip High alum have teamed up to compete in a motorsports event that has been described as the Super Bowl of Off Road Racing. Seth Santikos, the owner of Twisted Metal Concepts at T.C. Jester and 43rd and a 2002 Waltrip alum, and 1991 Reagan grad Carlos Banegas, who grew up in The Heights, will take their custom-made racing buggy to the King of Hammers off-road race on Feb. 8 in southern California’s Mojave Desert. They’ve attended the race before but never competed in it. But before the duo treks out west for the 12hour race, they’ll have a send-off on Sunday, Jan. 27 at Mytiburger, 2211 W. 43rd St., courtesy of Shawn Salyers, who purchased Mytiburger last summer. The buggy will be on display, along with a slew of other vehicles. “It’s pretty cool to come and check out -- these vehicles are pretty impressive,” Salyers said. Santikos and Banegas have been off-road racing teammates for the past decade. They’ve earned success at races throughout Texas, but this will be their ﬁrst time in the prestigious West Coast event, which began in 2007. “We’ve been building this truck since I was in high school,” Santikos said. “Every time I rebuild it, it changes the entire thing. I’ve put $20,000$30,000 in the truck and close to $100,000 over the past 10-12 years.” The duo has been working until 3 a.m. to prepare for the race most days. They’ll take two trailers to California, with one towing the buggy and another hauling all of their racing equipment. “This is one of the biggest and toughest races so far,” Banegas said. “It’s considered one of the top 10 races in the world.”

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Seth Santikos (right), owner of Twisted Metal Concepts on TC Jester and 43rd Street, and a graduate of Waltrip High, and Carlos Banegas, a graduate of Reagan High, will compete in the King of the Hammers Oﬀ Road Race on Feb. 8 in California’s Mojave Desert. Their vehicle, pictured above, will be on display from 1-5 p.m. Sunday at Mytiburger. (Submitted photos) The send-off event will be held from 1-5 p.m., and Salyers said kids 12 and under will eat free with the purchase of a regular meal during those hours. Santikos, who grew up in Shepherd Park Plaza and now lives in Oak Forest, appreciates all of the team’s sponsors, including Mytiburger.

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CHEEK BITING “I’ve been going to Mytiburger my whole life,” Santikos said. “They’re putting a logo on our truck and we call them a sponsor. They keep us fed, giving us a whole bunch of burgers to cook when we’re in California. We’ll have classic cars out there and make a day of it.”

Neighbors: Girl Scout Cottage gets facelift by Elizabeth Villarreal elizasgarden@sbcglobal.net The Girl Scout Cottage at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, which is enjoyed by many Twin Oaks Girl Scouts and their families, has been badly in need of a facelift. Don Christen, President of the Building Committee at St. Rose, got the ball rolling by ﬁnding donated windows nearly the same age and style as the original windows, then gathered a group of volunteers who accomplished the hard task of removing the old windows and installing the new. Mr. Christen met Steve McClintock of McClintock Corporation and asked him if he would consider painting the Cottage as a donation and service project, and the answer was an amazing, “Yes.” The trim paint will be ﬁnished up this week and I hope you will drive by and take a look at the beautiful, brand new face of the Girl Scout Cottage. Twin Oaks Girl Scouts and their families would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to Steve McClintock, the McClintock Corporation, the amazing Don Christen, and St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church for all their time, hard work, and dedication. You truly made a difference in our community. Navy Seaman Zachariah J. Hernandez, a 2012 Scarborough

High graduate, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.During the eight-week program, Hernandez completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. He is the son of Cynthia D. and Larry J. Hernandez. Happy anniversary to two couples – Joyce and Bill Pennington of Candlelight Plaza who were married on Jan. 14, 1961, who are celebrating their 52nd wedding anniversary; and, their first son, Doug, and his wife, Monique Pennington, who were married on Jan. 14, 1993, and are celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary. Doug and Monique now live in Spring Branch, Texas, near San Antonio. To celebrate, the entire family (all eight grandchildren, both brothers and their wives, the matriarch and patriarch) spent a wonderful weekend together in a cabin in New Ulm, Texas, fishing, playing dominoes, and running free outside. Mazel tov ! Happy birthday to Cindy Atkinson Medina who celebrated her 50th birthday with family and friends on Jan. 21st. Cheers! Ruby and Charlotte and Linda,

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all wonderful neighbors of Jeff and Laura Aldis in Forest West, surprised several of their neighbors with “window boxes” planted with cold-hardy plants for a little extra splash of color this winter. Laura is enjoying hers in the front yard (where the dogs can’t destroy them) by the front door. Ruby Schell has been such a blessing to the Aldis family this past semester. She and Dorrie Krueger have helped by picking up the Aldis girls from Frank Black Middle School almost weekly. Abby wants to learn to make bread from Ruby, who once again gifted freshly baked homemade bread to all the neighbors for Christmas. Jeff and Laura are also looking forward to the dinner she sent over – stuffed pork chops! Yum! They are tucked safely in the freezer awaiting the perfect moment to be enjoyed. Ruby is very busy, but ﬁnds the time to always help in the most wonderful and meaningful ways. Abby and Emily are blessed to be growing up surrounded by so many wonderful people in their little corner of Forest West, and Jeff and Laura don’t know what they would do without the support. Jacqueline Amanda Malota turned 17 on Jan. 20. She spent her big weekend creating new memories in different places with her family and friends as she traveled

around. She spent some of the weekend with boyfriend, Johnny Zaragoza. Jacqueline spent her special day in and around the Galleria with her mother and father, Djuana and Kenneth, sister Brianna and her best friend, Tiffany Spanos. Happy Birthday Jacqueline!

Chase Baker, D.D.S.

ithout a doubt, many of us have had the experience of unconsciously biting the inner side of our cheek. If you are tense, or have generalized anxiety, this may manifest itself when you are sleeping or even when you are awake. One of the ways you may express tension is by clenching or grinding your teeth. This is called bruxing. Many people do this at night when they sleep. This may include biting your cheek or lip unconsciously. Normally, it will heal in a few days if you don’t keep chewing the area. If you have a continuing problem, your dentist can check the relationship of your bite to see if there are any irregularities on the teeth surfaces that are contributing to your bruxing habit. He may find a sharp cusp, or an incorrect relationship of teeth in the cheek area. If there are, they can easily be eliminated. Lastly, he may suggest that you wear a night guard appliance to help break the habit and permit him to check your bite even more precisely. Prepared as a public service to promote better dental health. From the ofﬁce of: Chase Baker, D.D.S., 3515 Ella Blvd., 713-682-4406.

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Page 4A • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

Seems even Google believes in resiliency of print N

o kidding here. USA Today (that’s a newspaper for all the kids out there) decided to have an advertising competition open to any company in the world. The details were pretty simple: Design a full-page ad for the paper, and a panel of judges would pick the most creative and professional entry. Even better for the contestants was the ﬁrst-place prize: $1 million in free advertising. For those of you who think that’s a lifetime worth of free advertising, guess again. For $1 million, the winner will get about six full-page ads in USA Today (expensive, huh?). If you’ve looked at a national newspaper lately (or even our big sister downtown), you know most of the larger advertisers are national companies. You’ll ﬁnd department stores, big-box retailers and car manufacturers. So it would be solid reasoning to assume one of those major companies would have an advertising agency that could create the winning ad, right? We like to set ’em up and knock ’em down around here. In other words: Wrong. The winner? Google. Funny, isn’t it? Maybe not, but it will be after I explain one piece of background information. Back in 2006, newspapers across the United States sold just north of

JONATHAN MCELVY Publisher

$49 billion in advertising revenue. That same year, Google’s advertising revenue was around $6 billion. Now, fast forward five years to 2011 (because 2012 numbers aren’t available yet – and nobody in the newspaper business is in a hurry, either). In 2011, U.S. newspapers sold $23.9 billion in advertising revenue. For those counting at home, that’s a decrease of $25 billion in revenue in five years. As for Google, in that same five-year period, their advertising revenue increased to $36.5 billion. That one search-related website now makes more in advertising revenue than all the newspapers in the United States. Combined. Pretty amazing how the landscape has changed. Why am I telling you this? Me, who bought a newspaper just seven months

THE READER.

Scoop on animal waste

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ago? Google’s decision to enter the newspaper advertising arena is interesting on so many levels. For starters, they have decided newspapers present a solid option for branding their company. (Their winning campaign, by the way, was a promotion of their answer to Facebook – a website called Google+.) Then, I found another interesting piece of news from a California company called Baynote (slogan: “Delivering online shopping experiences as unique as your customers”). Baynote just paid major bucks for a survey of people who shopped during the 2012 holiday season. What they found may give some credence to Google’s print philosophy. In brief, the survey said paper catalogs influenced twice as many consumers as both Pinterest and Twitter for in-store and online purchases. This next statistic is mind-boggling: Those paper catalogs influenced 81.9 percent more in-store purchases and 42.9 percent more online purchases than Facebook. The headline of the Baynote white paper had a nice title: “Back to the Future.” I could fill pages and pages of interesting statistics about the resilient power of print products, but that would become tiresome for most of our readers. Instead,

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get involved on this page! If you want to send us a letter, we might edit it a little, and we won’t let you personally attack your pesky neighbor. But we’ll publish as many letters as our readers choose to write. (One a month from a speciﬁc author.)

Send to news@theleadernews.com

Dear Jonathan: Thank you for addressing the “Poop Problem.” The Houston Dept. of Health & Human Services has a “Pooper Scooper” Law – Section 6-24. Violation of this section carries a fine between $75 to $500. It states that a person in control of a dog or cat must promptly remove and dispose of feces left by their dog or cat when outside of your own yard. My neighbor has many cats (I have counted 11) and also feeds the stray cats roaming the neighborhood. Cat fights and poop are everywhere. BARC cannot accept any more animals and the SPCA is to capacity. I do not want to harm the cats – it is not their fault that they are a problem. Do you have any advice for us? Don Willson via www.theleadernews.com Dear Jonathan: Yes. Poop, I believe, is a problem in every neighborhood, but on different levels. The dog walkers in my neighborhood are pretty good about picking up after their dogs. However, I have witnessed a neighbor’s cat relieving itself in my yard, and not even bothering to try to cover it! The pile of dung – yes, it resembled a pile – could be mistaken for a large dogs! The blame cannot only be given to just cats and dogs. The raccoons in our area leave behind a fairly plentiful amount of specimen as well. Thanks for writing the article. I love animals, but what do you do about the doo? Virginia via www.theleadernews.com Dear Jonathan: Just read your “pick up your pet’s poop” article and agree wholeheartedly. Another aspect of this problem for us is we have an alley or Reliant light company easement behind our house which has now become an unofficial dog park and you know what that means. POOP. Because of all the new development almost every new home has at least one dog. The reason this concerns us is we mow this same alley. We even posted a sign asking for pet owners to please (yes we even said please) help us by picking up their pets poop. Some do, some don’t. My husband bought a riding lawn mower just to mow the alley. He has health issues but loves to mow. So this is his entertainment and he really enjoys the satisfaction of actually doing something productive without the physical strain of hard labor. He is so cute out there putt putting around and sometimes he even gets to visit with some

how about we offer some perspective? The other day, we had an internal discussion at The Leader about areas where we could serve our readers and advertisers better. We had received some letters from readers who asked if we would run more employment advertising, and those letters started our conversation. A number of years ago, newspapers gave up on employment advertising, and if you do an internet search for “Houston jobs” you likely know why. In the few minutes I spent searching, I found three pages of employment websites “devoted” to Houston job seekers. Local companies like The Chronicle (actually, they’re partners with Monster) claim to have the biggest database of jobs in the market. There’s houstonjobs.com and its second cousin, houstonjobing.com. You might ﬁnd positions on snagajob.com or thejobnetwork. com or any of the TV station websites, where they all have a compilation of local jobs. Then, there are the usual suspects: Craigslist, Monster, Yahoo, SimplyHired and CareerBuilder. After that, you’ll ﬁnd the aggregator websites – like Indeed.com – where they just go steal every job ever posted on any site in Houston and then claim to have the biggest selection of jobs anywhere.

of the depositors, the doggies and their owners. We even had a lady stop and give us $10.00 for gas. I have lived here in this house since 1947 and have seen that alley become a football field, a volleyball court, a badmitton court and seen generations of kids having fun, including my own, in a safe place. It is also a cementary for various neighborhood pets, dogs, cats, fish, hamsters well you get the picture. I even played there as a kid. So this plot of land holds lots of wonderful memories for us. We mow and try to keep it beautiful because we love it. I thought if some of your readers read this letter maybe they would understand and they would develop a love for it because it gives them a safe place to toss a ball or frisbee to their dog or just spend time playing with them and maybe they would realize how much it means to my husband. We will be celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary soon. Wouldn’t this be a great gift? Either way people who own pets, it is your responsibility to “pick up the poop” and it is the law. Oh, by the way, I love what you have done with The Leader. Shirley McLeroy [From the Publisher: Because we had two people ask for suggestions to the poo prob, I supposed an answer is required. Doggonit.] Dear Don, Virginia and Shirley: Thank you so much for taking the time to write back. Even more, thanks for reading my column. I wasn’t sure that was actually happening. Two of you asked, as Virginia eloquently put it, “what do you do about the doo?” I actually do have a couple of suggestions, based completely on teen-aged research. First, if you see someone walking his or her dog, and said dog does said doo, sneak up to the mess, put it in a paper bag, and then follow the person home. Once night falls, put the paper bag on the porch, light it on fire and ring the doorbell. Then, hide in the neighbor’s bushes and try not to laugh when the offender’s young child opens the door, begins screaming, and has to go visit a shrink for the next three years because of your immature approach to dealing with this problem. OK, so maybe that’s not a good idea. There is no solution for the cat problem. Cats are lovely, friendly, evil little creatures. (I know because we always had a few around the house when I was a youngster.) As you mention, they usually do a good job of cleaning up after themselves, but unless we enact a leash law for cats, which would be kind of weird, I’d say we should hire Scoop Le Poop every few weeks. Let him deal with it.

Confused? Good, that’s kind of the point. When Google created a marketplace for online advertising, they opened every segment of business to specialty websites. And when one specialty website became popular, a million copy-cats followed. That’s quite different from newspapers, where no copy-cat is crazy or stupid (or both) enough to open new newspapers in areas like the Heights, Garden Oaks and Oak Forest. If you haven’t noticed, The Leader has doubled in size in the past four months. A large part of that has to do with exactly what Google seems to have ﬁgured out: Print is a darn good option for businesses who want to make a lasting impression on readers. They know, as well as we do, that people who read print are much more engaged than passive readers who scroll through websites. And that’s why – to the readers who have asked us to publish more local job information – we’re launching a local business section in next week’s paper, along with a serious push to bring local employers and their jobs back to the only medium that covers your neighborhood.

Email jonathan@theleadernews.com

And as for the raccoons? I suppose we can’t put them on a leash either. Again, we’re left to calling the pros. The actual purpose of last week’s column was to publicly hold accountable those pet owners who don’t clean up after their dogs. In all seriousness, the next time you see someone not remove the doo, just kindly remind the person of some of the things we mentioned last week. Namely, it’s a tremendous health hazard. Also it’s extremely selﬁsh. Jonathan McElvy, Publisher

On new Heights apartment project

Dear Editor: I don’t even get on Yale any longer when I’m going South; the traﬃc is awful. This looks a lot like a building on W. Gray near Bagby. Generic. It certainly doesn’t belong in the Heights, but neither do hundreds of new homes being built there. It really doesn’t matter what we think, since the changes will take place. Tena M. Clark Via Facebook THE LEADER.

On Lynn Ashby’s ‘The future lies ahead’ Dear Editor:

This diatribe by Lynn Ashby confirms that he no longer practices journalism. Ashby is a political activist. He regularly acts more like an acolyte of Saul Alinsky, marginalizing anything conservative without empirical basis. Odd how CBS’s Bob Schieffer can refer to the defeat of the Nazis as more of a challenge than (the Obama Administration’s) effort to defeat the NRA and this bias endorsement of Obama gun control policy would get a pass from Ashby as being “objective.” By contrast, Fox News would cite how a Pennsylvania hospital will no longer provide for the delivery of babies – they averaged about 200 per year – due to the costs related to Obamacare. In Ashby’s world, that’s biased, “fiction” reporting by Fox News. Lynn, just because you and other liberal journalists ignore stories about the deleterious impact of Obmacare or the bad economy or the fact that 50,000 Californians are moving to Texas every year, doesn’t make these (Fox News) stories false or irrelevant. You can hate Gov. Perry all you want, but the 50,000 Californians moving to Texas this year are voting with their feet. Maybe you ought to complain about the failures of the California state legislature dominated by Democrats for two decades. You might slam Fox News every week too. But if you care to challenge me on my facts, I enthusiastically welcome your correspondence. But I won’t hold my breath. Mike Crowe, via Facebook THE LEADER

Does anyone have a cleanser to clean out my cleaning products? THE KITCHEN CABINET – When a lampshade needs cleaning, I turn to Maid in the Shade, my cleaner especially created for this task. Make those pesky dust bunnies flee with Rabbit Transit. Need your dog’s bloodsuckers removed? This is a bottle of poisonous soap, Tick Tox. Here is my broom designed for cowhide rugs, Sweep Steaks. The next can makes no sense: Easy-Off. It’s oven cleaner for my self-cleaning oven. What a worthless product – rather like driving instructions in Braille or an ethics guide for Texas legislators. Have you inventoried your cleaning supplies lately – like since 1990? Granted, this is not a top priority question. It doesn’t compete with whether Hurricane Sandy finally performed a mercy killing on Jersey Shore, but you should check out all that stuff you have amassed over the years. Unlike our pantries and refrigerators and even our freezers, which contain items that grow mold and start to ooze as a reminder that they need to be eaten, our cleansing products don’t rot or rust, they just sit there, gathering the very dust and dirt they are supposed to fight. Only when the containers are empty do we discard them, and I’ll bet you also have a lot of cans on your shelves containing dried-up boot creams and cracked silver polish.

ASHBY AT

LARGE

For example, I purchased this can of Brass Ban to polish a brass candlestick holder for the Y2K power grid meltdown. The goo may have solidiﬁed, because whatever is in there rattles. Next to the brass polish is a can of silver polish, another for bronze. Why are there different cans for each metal? Are they able to tell the difference? Brick polish. Why did I buy that? Soap to clean up bat sweat. Same question. Some people simply toss away the contents of their dustpans, but we experts carefully pour the refuse into this aluminum foil envelope: Dirt Reynolds. Joan Rivers once observed: “I hate housework! You make the beds, you do the dishes and six months later you have to start all over again.” Environmentalists would love Rivers, because many of your cleansers come in pressurized cans con-

taining aerosol which, the tree-huggers tell us, pollutes the atmosphere. Every time you spray on a deodorant or take the Pledge, another butterfly dies. In my neighborhood a grocery store has opened, about the size of a dirigible hangar. It’s so big, even children use a Lark. Half of this “grocery” store is not groceries at all, but is filled with the inedible – light bulbs, greeting cards, motor oil and, yes, aisles of cleaning items. We buy them and take them home, and they never go away. Our collections of cleansers grow like the mildew on my Rolling Stone Moss Kit. It sits next to my can of spray-on rust. How do I lathe thee? Let me count the ways. This is dishwasher soap. You can buy it in powdered form in a bucket and measure it out. Or you can let someone else do the measuring, and all you have to do is grab one of those little packets filled with powder. The latter form costs 50 percent more. From dental floss to vacuum cleaners, from Windex to Clorox, we work mightily to keep ourselves and our pets, potted plants and plumbing squeaky clean. If cleanliness is next to Godliness, it is also close to Procter & Gamble. P&G is the world’s largest and most profitable consumer products company, with nearly $84 billion in sales a year and 25 billion-

dollar brands. What does a 25 billiondollar brand mean? I didn’t know P&G was in the cattle business. That company produces much of what you are buying, clean-wise: Tide, Oral-B toothbrush, Ariel washing powder, Head & Shoulders, Clairol, Cover Girl, Crest, Gillette – 53 products. You probably spend more on Procter & Gamble items each year than you give to your church or bookie. Here is a depressing mystery: On the label of this container in big print reads, “Resolve,” then in tiny print, “Formerly Spray ‘n’ Wash.” Does this mean that for years I was spraying the very same ingredients on my shirt collars that I was spraying on the dog poop stains on my rug? Like I said, that’s sort of depressing. For laundering money, I use Dead Presidents Delight, but we won’t go there. My can of Pledge Lemon Clean. You don’t want dirty lemons, do you? My favorite: Bored Walk. You spray it on your TV screen and it blocks any mention of Kim Kardashian, Lindsay Lohan or Donald Trump. On the next shelf is Lysol, which I spray on countertops to kill varmints. It leaves a distinct odor that fairly shouts: Dead bugs! This is Febreze, which I then spray on the countertops to take away that shouting odor. Fantastic, 409, Scrubbing

Bubbles – all in pretty containers meant to catch our eyes as we go down the grocery store aisles. Do you get the idea that, like Wheaties and Saltines, the packaging cost more than the contents? We haven’t even touched the bathroom, with all its soap, shampoo and toothbrushes. Incidentally, the English like to rib Americans for being overly concerned with our hygiene. True, the English invented the toothbrush, but if Americans had been the inventors, it would have been called the “teethbrush.” Here’s my candlewick cleaner and my Mace remover. Do you have a can of Roach Glow? This seems to be a six-pack of Computer Delete. I bought a powder to get rid of unsightly muscles: Ab-Stain. Ah, a product that actually works like it’s supposed to: Wine B’ Gone. I discovered it in a restaurant when the drunk sitting next to me spilled his red wine all over my white shirt. Quickly, the waiter pulled me up from under the table, slapped on this liquid, then slapped me to consciousness, and told me and my wine to B’Gone. What I need is something to clean out all these cleansers. Ashby is squeaky clean at ashby2@comcast.net

Page 5A • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

Arts Calendar Review: Once a week, Luke’s stakes name on red meat 3rd Annual Earring Slam Jam 11-5 p.m. Jan. 26 18 Hands Gallery 249 W. 19th St. 713-869-3099 www.18HandsGallery.com 18 Hands Gallery presents the 3rd Annual Earring Slam Jam featuring 13 participating artists. Come by and enjoy some champagne, chocolate fondue and strawberries while shopping for earrings. Artists will have booths and some will also be demonstrating. Nothing is priced more than $75.The participating artists are: Marguerite Belkin, Michele Cruz, Lyn Foley, Kseniya Goodkova, Kay Hand, Mary Jarvis, Helen Kent, Barbara Kile, Joanne Mann, Pat Powell, Leslie Shershow, Olga Tarasova, Melissa Walter and Dottie Wood.

PORTALS OF MISCONCEPTION Through Feb. 23 BLUEorange Contemporary Art Gallery 1208 W. Gray 713-527-0030 www.blueorangehouston.com Portals of Misconception features a site speciﬁc installation by sculptor Aldon Mines and installation artist Shannon Gowen as well individual works from both artists. Aldon’s sculptures draw viewers in and ask them to question preconceived ideas of functionality and practicality. Shannon seamlessly intertwines elements of ﬁber art, embroidery, collage and sculpture into her installations. Together they have created an imaginative piece that is as captivating as it is beautiful.

WARM UP TO BLACK AND WHITE (A TRIBUTE TO PICASSO) Through Feb. 8 Opening Jan. 19, 6-9 p.m. The Lyric Centre 440 Louisiana St. Come join in the opening of The Group Art Show “Warm Up To Black And White,” featuring artists David Adickes, Kelley Devine, Kimberly Gremillion, Keith Hollingsworth and Marcus Mann. Paintings, sculpture, photography and works on paper dealing with the monochromatic palette will be presented, which reveal striking contemporary interpretations.

FLAMENCO POETS‚ STORYTELLERS EVENT 8 p.m. Jan. 27 Casa Ramirez Folk Art Gallery 241 W. 19th St. www.theﬂamencopoetssociety. org or 713-520-9364 Baltazar Canales, Ted Pﬁster and Ben Lind will be featured in “The Tapestry of Our Lives,” a free event supported by Poets & Writer’s, Inc.

TEXAS TEAPOT TOURNAMENT Through Jan. 27 18 Hands Gallery 249 W. 19th St. 713-869-3099 www.18handsgallery.com 18 Hands Gallery is proud to jointly sponsor this sixth annual international exhibition, along with Clay Arts Museum and Educational Organization, a nonproﬁt organization devoted to promoting ceramics and emerging ceramic artists. Pushing the boundaries of the concept of teapot will be 80 teapots by an international cast of clay artists. Light refreshments will be served, and the artists will be on hand.

STAGED - NEW WORKS BY LEIGH MERRILL AND ANA FERNANDEZ Through Jan. 27 G Gallery 301 E. 11th St. 713-869-4770 www.ggalleryhouston.com Staged, featuring work by artists Ana Fernandez (San Antonio) and Leigh Merrill (Dallas), presents viewers with an oddly familiar yet undeniably oﬀkilter view of the Texas landscape. Both artists construct strangely discordant, alternate visual realities.

here is undoubtedly no other city in the country than Houston where on any given night (although predominantly on weeknights) you can stop by a local watering hole and get an off-menu steak prepared from a temporary grill out back. It is rare to find a bar, which usually sports a smallish food menu of its own, that doesn’t designate one night of the week to bringing in a dude to hunch over an open flame in the parking lot and sling out some sliver-cut sirloin and foil-wrapped baked potatoes. (Yep, there’s even a website tracking this sort of thing – www.houstonsteaknight.com.) I would also have to think that a beer joint like Luke’s Ice House on the corner of Washington Avenue and Durham Drive would have conceptualized the now-ubiquitous Steak Night. The wood-paneled converted house (reincarnated from the old Cahill’s) has a Golden Tee machine along the wall, umbrella-topped tables on its wraparound patio, a slew of draught on tap, burgers and fried stuff on the menu and the Rockets on their TVs. Luke’s has definitely upgraded aesthetically since it opened in July but it still fits the perfect profile for a Steak Nighter. Even though there are an endless options for finding these meat-intensive evenings (definitely most popular on Tuesdays and Wednesdays), they are never going to be

Come ‘meat’ at J’s

Luke’s Ice House 903 Durham Dr. www.lukesicehousehouston.com

Dippers and Bites: $6-$20 Sandwiches, Wraps and Burgers: $8-$10 Steak Night: $11.99 Kid Friendly: Unless your kid is 21, keep them at home LE’s Favorite: Ribeye special for steak night

confused with a dinner at Del Frisco’s. Steak Night veers towards the just-got-a-hunkof-meat-from-Kroger-and-I’m –going-toquickly-grill-it-in-the-backyard type of dining experience than one at Houston’s ﬁnest steakhouses where the cuts of meat are thick and lean.

As long as you go into it knowing this, Steak Night can be more than sufficient for handling your filet fix. Well, you’ll be hard pressed to find a filet at a North Houstonarea Steak Night with ribeye acting as the typical cut, which was the case when Leader Eater stopped in at Luke’s on a

Wednesday. A ribeye is bliss for a gritty carnivore, though. No substantial swath of meat in a ribeye steak stretches very far without bordering on at least a bit of fat, which if cooked right can trap in the moisture from grilling and leave the meat soft, and even decadent. The master on Luke’s grill that night certainly knew these ﬁner points of porterhouse, and my ribeye came out with the right tenderness sought after in a truly medium-rare steak. Taking it one step further, the grilling group at Luke’s touched on a soft spot of mine – overindulging on the steak seasoning. (Leader Eater always has a healthy amount of Spicy Montreal Steak Spice in my cupboard for use on everything from scrambled eggs to broccoli.) With a kitchen of its own, Luke’s was able to offer fries on the side along with a choice of vegetables or the standard Steak Night side of baked potato. I split the offerings and took half-fries and half-veggies beside the ribeye. (Don’t worry fellas, Luke’s has got salads on the menu, which my cohort that evening ordered and approved of.) Even if the steak comes out more shoe leather than scrumptious, Luke’s can pour you a pint of the Fort Worth microbrewers, Rahr & Sons, that will help the beef down. But if it is anything like my time there, Luke’s does the tradition of Steak Night proud.

Hipstrict Briefs

Principle earns waiter global praise

Thirsty Explorer

The Thirsty Explorer recently went to Crazy J’s for Steak Night, which is also Crazy Karaoke night. The grilled ﬁlets and ribeyes looked and smelled delicious, but the Thirsty Explorer failed to preorder, so she did not get the ﬁlet she craved. She learned that Steak Night is popular, so if you would like to partake in devouring a steak, paired with a baked potato, dressed the way you want it, order ahead. Since the steak was Thirsty no longer an option, the Thirsty Explorer went Explorer for a few of the Germanstyle soft pretzels from Slow Dough Bread Co. as an appetizer. After the tease of the steaks and a few pretzels, the Thirsty Explorer opted for the popular in-house baked 16-inch pizza. The fact that the pizza cooks right in front of the bar did not help to hinder the anticipation. Both bartenders, Neff and Ryan, warned that the pizza was hot, and they meant it. After burning the roof of my mouth, the actual Crazy J advised that he likes to wait about 10 minutes after the pizza bakes before attempting. Oh well... The cold beer helped to soothe that. If, like me, you miss the opportunity to pre-order steak and aren’t in the mood for pizza, Little Bitty Burger Barn – just across the tracks – will deliver to Crazy J’s for free. There are specials or featured events nearly every day, including Crazy Specials on seasonal beers, which are usually $2.

Crazy J’s 5022 Pinemont www.crazyjsicehouse.com 832-767-0085 Hours: 11 a.m.-midnight Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday; noon-closing Sunday

A Washington Avenue waiter who refused to serve a party that asked to be moved away from a family with a special needs child rapidly found himself the center of local, then global attention last week. According to local reports that were picked up by the Hufﬁngton Post and international media, Laurenzo’s waiter Michael Garcia took his stand after hearing a diner say, “Special needs children need to be somewhere else.” The man’s party had shifted tables after being seated next to the Castillo family – among them, 5-year-old Milo, who has Down’s syndrome. The outpouring buoyed Garcia, who has worked at Laurenzo’s for about two years and served the Castillos all that time. He called Milo an “angel.” Not only did the Castillos pledge their loyalty to the restaurant, but message boards ﬁlled with comments from people who said they would eat at the upscale steakhouse because of his act.

Houston CAP competing in Rachael Ray Challenge

Houston’s Citizens for Animal Protection has been named one of 50 U.S. animal shelters that will compete in Rachael Ray’s $100K Challenge to help shelters rescue more cats and dogs. Competitors vie to see who can save the most animals from June to August

Waiter Garcia reacted when he heard a patron make a remark about 5-year-old Milo Castillo and found himself the object of international attention. (Photos from ABC-13) of the year over their rate the previous year and a chance at $600,000 in awards. Last year’s organizations saved more than 56,000 cats and dogs. CAP operates a rescue-shelter-adopt facility on the Katy Freeway, spay and neuter clinics and educational programs. For more on the organization, visit www.cap4pets.org and on the competition, go to http://www.aspca. org/100kchallenge.

2nd Cup founder honored

Erica Raggett, who founded the Heights’ 2nd Cup coffeehouse to bring

awareness and funding to human trafficking causes, has been named January Hero of the Month by the organization Children at Risk. Her nonprofit business, located at 1035 E. 11th St., is open two days a week with volunteer baristas Raggett and community events on human trafficking. Raggett is raising money for a permanent, fulltime location.

Leader Nibbles Valentine’s Day looms

We’re starting to get news of Valentine’s plans that could sweeten or spice up the day for your loved ones. Baskin-Robbins at 1354 W. 43rd St. is offering ice cream cakes decorated with sayings like those ubiquitous little candy hearts. Phone 713290-0877 for information or to order. And Table 19, 632 W. 19th St., will extend its usual breakfast-lunch routine and be open for a reservations-only dinner on Feb. 14, with a special menu. Diners can choose from soup or salad, grilled beef filet with sautéed potatoes, Parmesan crusted chicken with fettuccine and fresh tomato sauce or sautéed shrimp with creamy polenta for an entree, a choice of sautéed green beans or grilled asparagus as a side, and chocolate raspberry shortcake or lemon meringue tart for dessert. Coffee and iced tea are included, or bring your favorite wine or champagne to celebrate, with a corkage fee of $1 per glass. The number is 713-864-3301 for more details or reservations. Things are a little spicier at Kiran’s, where they’ll serve up a three-course Indian menu and

Paws and sip at Sonoma

Sonoma Wine Bar and Restaurant, 801 Studewood, is holding a “Paws for Wine” tasting fundraiser from 4-7 p.m. Feb. 2 to beneﬁt SNAP, the nonproﬁt Spay-Neuter Assistance Program to alleviate pet overpopulation. Tickets are $50 for the chance to sip and swirl 30 wines and beers paired with “tasty tidbits.” For more, go to www.sonomahouston.com.

Parking deluged by swim school?

If the little box of hearts won’t do, Baskin Robbins on West 43rd will replicate it on an ice cream cake. (Submitted photo) ﬁve courses at dinner –– both accompanied by live harp music –– on Valentine’s Day. Before that, the restaurant will oﬀer a Valentine’sthemed afternoon tea on Feb. 9. Kiran’s is located in the Highland Village area at 4100 Westheimer Road. For information or reservations, go to www. kiranshouston.com or call 713-960-8472.

The arrival of a new swim school in Oak Forest is requiring some maneuvering by two local foodie favorites, who have been using the property. Mickey Morales, proprietor of the Saturday pop-up Farm Stand at Petrol Station, which sets up for four hours each week, said the new property owner has told him the market will still have a spot. “We received a couple other oﬀers right in the neighborhood, too,” he told The Leader. Not as clear is how Petrol Station will resolve its situation, since the property served as its Ad # 1-12-13 primary source of parking. The owner wasn’t

ADER.

THE LE

COMING FEBRUARY 23 . T S I L E H T February

2013

See next week’s edition of THE LEADER for more details

available for comment, but an employee at the neighborhood eatery and craft brew mecca said the problem was “being worked on.” Construction on the swim school is expected to start any day, with a projected opening in time for summer.

In the pink

Last week, we revealed Delicious Concepts’ plans for a new Tex-Mex eatery at the site of the old Redi Room in the Heights, on the heels of the revamping of his Asian concept Dragon Bowl restaurant into the Witchcraft Tavern. Now owner Ken Bridge has taken to social media to announce the expansion of his Pink’s Pizza business. He teased last week that there will be two new Pink’s, but he wouldn’t reveal the locations. Pinks are already located in the Heights, Shepherd Park Plaza/Garden Oaks, West University and on West Gray. And while we’re on the subject of Delicious Concepts, Witchcraft Tavern said last week it’s adding three new menu items, including fried chicken – fast becoming a staple on Heights-area menus. – Charlotte Aguilar

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Page 6A • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

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HUDSON CHIROPRACTIC

We Accept Medicare, Medicaid & Insurance, WORKERS COMP. Ad # 37758 1820-1 W. 43rd. St. Se Habla Español (713) 290-1905

Ad # 37672

FREE DINNER

FULL SERVICE WASH • Vacuum Interior • Windows Cleaned • Wipe Dash & Door Panels • Clean Cup Holder • Towel Dry

(713) 895-7434

EXPIRES 2-1-13

www.wetzonecarwash.com

COUPON CODE: 7946

• Not available on Senior Citizens or Kids Menu • One coupon per table / one coupon per family ORIGINAL COUPON ONLY! No copies accepted • Must be presented before ordering • Expires 2-1-13.

expires 2-8-13

* Lunch Specials Daily * Take Out Orders Available * Complete Bar Facilities * Party Room Available(Seats 85)

5 OFF

• LIMIT THREE COUPONS PER TABLE • Full Service Bar - 13 oz. Regular Margaritas $2 Weekdays & Saturdays 3:00-6:00 pm. Sunday - All Day

FAJITAS FOR TWO

• Dine-in-only • 1 Coupon per table, please • Present coupon when ordering • Offer good Monday thru Friday 3:00 PM - 9:30 PM only Saturday and Sunday 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM • Expires 2-15-13 • Full bar and open air patio

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

DINE IN ONLY.

VALID MON.-FRI. 3 PM TIL CLOSING AND ALL DAY SAT. AND SUN.NOT Ad #VALID 36862 WITH OTHER OFFERS. OFFER EXPIRES 2-1-13

713-462-4321

Highway 290 @ Fairbanks North Houston in Kroger Center

SUNDAE

99¢

With purchase of another Sundae of equal or greater value.

5305 Antoine @ Pinemont 713-682-3853

Party Room Available

5 OFF DINNER

Buy One Dinner And Receive $5 Off WITH THIS COUPON Second Dinner Of Equal Or Lesser Value.

I WO AMIGOS for only..

Mexican Restaurant

Buy One Dinner And Receive $5 Off Second Dinner of Equal or Lesser Value. (Includes Fajitas for 2 Special)

GET A

HOURS: 10:30 am - 10:00 pm • 7 days a week

Ad # 37755

(713) 680-0825

With this coupon. One coupon per customer. This location only. Expires 2-8-13

DINE IN ONLY. THIS COUPON GOOD MON. THRU FRI. 3PM TIL CLOSING. THIS COUPON ALSO GOOD SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 11:00 UNTIL CLOSING. EXCLUDES ALCHOLIC BEVERAGES NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS. OFFER EXPIRES 2-1-13

Authentic Mej icano Cuisine

FREE Dinner Buy 1 Dinner and 2 Drinks, Get 1 Dinner Free (up to $10.00) One coupon per table

Dine In Only After 3:00 pm • Expires 2-15-13

ICE CREAM

� DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS � BAR FACILITIES � TAKE-OUT ORDERS AVAILABLE

CAKES

1354 West 43rd Ad # 37605

2211 West 43rd 713-686-7078

4618 Dacoma

(Between Hwy. 290 and Mangum)

14121 N.W. FREEWAY Ad # 37681

ONLY

Dine-In Only. No Takeout Orders. Good 3-10 p.m. only.

Ad # 36863

Reg. 99 $12.99

7316 W. Tidwell @ Hollister

BUY ONE BURGER GET ANOTHER ONE FOR

Buy 1 Dinner Get 1 Dinner FREE ��Coupon value up to $4.95 �

Happy Hours: Mon-Thur 4-8

Available for Any Occasion or Holiday

(713) 290-0877

Ad #Mexican 37756

2615 Ella Blvd. @ 27th ��713-868-5232

Restaurant OPEN Monday - Saturday 8am - 10pm & Sunday 8 am - 4pm

OFF SECOND ENTREE 5

$ ��

��

�� Ad # 37745

��

Buy 1 dinner and get $5 Off second dinner of equal or lesser value.

• Dine-In Only • This coupon good Mon.-Fri. 3 p.m.-10 p.m. • This coupon also good all day Sat. & Sun. • One coupon per party • Excludes alcoholic beverages • Not valid with other specials, special dinner menu or half orders • Expires 2-1-13

Juanita’s

ENJOY OUR HAPPY HOUR

Monday - Friday 11am - 7pm Saturday & Sunday - All Day

Frozen Jumbo Margaritas $5.95 or 10 oz. $2.95 - regular or avored -

Mexican Restaurant & Cantina 2728 West T.C. Jester @ 610 • 713-680-8011 11550 Louetta • 281-251-0206 Ad # 37586

Coupon good at all 3 locations. Open Mon.-Sat. 11-10, Sun. 11-9

The al in Orig

‘TWO CAN DINE’ $

We GUARANTEE the Highest Price by 5%

Includes 2 Quarter Pound Basic Burger Baskets & 2 Drinks

Now honoring Spoton Frequent Dinner Program Kids Eat Free On Wednesdays! 5:00 - 8:00 pm

Voted Best Burger Joint by Michael Berry Show M-F 10 AM-9 PM • SAT 11 AM-9 PM • SUN 11 AM-5 PM

www.WeBuyGoldCenter.com

5503 Pinemont��713-683-6700

1-855-351-GOLD

www.littlebittyburgerbarn.com

Ad # 37757

BONUS COUPON HWY 290 @ TIDWELL 13482 NW Frwy. 281-653-7162 US 290 @ 34th St. 11200 NW Fwy. Ste 700 281-888-0508 HWY 290 @ FM 1960 12149 FM 1960 W. Ste. L 281-653-7162

25%

MORE CASH

with this coupon

“With This Coupon. Not Valid With Any Other Offer. *Written Veriable Quote On A Letterhead. From A Similar Type Of Local Area Competitor Within One Mile Radius With Current Date Required. Valid For Metal Value Only. Limited To 20-DWT Maximum.” Code # LDR051711073111 Expires 2/28/13

FREE DONUTS Get 1/2 dozen glazed donuts FREE with purchase of one dozen donuts or more.

2 KOLACHES

FREE DONUTS

With purchase of one dozen glazed donuts.

FREE!

EXPIRES 2-1-13.

FREE

Buy 6 Glazed Donuts Get 6 Glazed Donuts

EXPIRES 2-1-13.

Good at this location only. One coupon per visit. Tax not included. Not valid in conjunction with other coupons.

3410 Ella Blvd. at 34th St.

(713) 682-4343

Page 7A â&#x20AC;˘ The Leader â&#x20AC;˘ January 26, 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ www.theleadernews.com

THE CLASSIFIEDS. Wanting to run a classifid ad? CALL 713-686-8494 Monday - Friday. We accpet credit cards.

AUTOS & TRUCKS

COMPUTERS

MOBILE AUTO & TRUCK REPAIRS

Home, Small OfĂ&#x201E;ce Computer Repair

7 Days a week, 35 yrs. exp. Low Prices, Sr. Discount.

Upgrades, Installation, ConĂ&#x201E;guration (Virus-Removal) Home - NetWorking

â&#x20AC;&#x153;CALL ME, I COME TO YOUâ&#x20AC;? DON DRAUGHON

832-818-4970

832-641-9586 2012 CHEVY COLORADO CREWCAB: 5,000 miles, $21,500. 713-562-6335. (2-9)

COMPUTER PROBLEMS?

We offer Mobile Repairs Mr. PC Computer

AUTO SERVICES

832.641.6786

CANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T AFFORD VEHICLE EMISSIONS REPAIRS? If You Qualify - You Only Pay $30!

EASY & FAST! - Se Habla EspaĂąol AirCheckTexas Repair & Replacement Assistance Program.

Cossio Motor Services, Inc. Emissions Repair & Complete Auto Repair Automatic Transmissions

7824 Irvington 713-692-9551

FOR SALE BLUE MOON ANTIQUES: Antiques and collectibles. We do estate sales. 3311 Ella. 832-2867882. www.bluemoonantiqueshouston.com. (TF) FRANK SALAS IS THE MAN TO CALL for trash hauling and garage cleaning. 832-206-8734, 832-893-5697. (TF) WE BUY/SELL GUNS: Top cash paid. FFL concealed handgun class Feb. 23. 713-694-4867. (TF) Nobody delivers to more homes in our area than The Leader.

REPUBLIC ARMS GUNS & AMMO 3344 E.T.C. Jester

713-682-5549

www.republicarms.com

HEIGHTS KEYS ETC.

FOR SALE TUPPERWARE AVAILABLE: Call JoAnn Lord at 281-9233729. (TF) GARAGE SALE: 2426 Brooktree. Kitchenware, clothes, CDs, books. Saturday, Jan. 26, 8 a.m. LARGE GARAGE SALE JAN. 26: Doors open at 8 a.m. No early birds! Everything is priced to go. An assortment of furniture, vintage purses, mirrors, menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leather boots, menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jackets, housewares and much, much more. 1502 Wakefield Drive between Oak Forest and Piney Woods. BIG MOVING SALE: Furniture, machinist tools and lots more. 7245 Fairbanks N. Houston Road #140, 77040. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 26-27, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. ESTATE SALE: 1039 Richelieu Lane, 77018. Jan. 26-27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. Serious buyers, cash only. Beautiful antique furniture, mirrors, glass collectibles, designer clothing and so much more.

Advertising Builds Business!

Located in Heights since â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;58

742 W. 20th 713-861-7112

To Find Out What The Leader Can Do For You Give Us A Call

House Keys $ 25 Dependable Citywide Service

713-686-8494

Memory Foam Mattresses the

FOAM store

SLEEP BETTER

713.686.6622

THE FOAM STORE

+ Custom Cut + Memor y Foam + Chair Pads + Couch Cushions + Mattress Foam

2217 W. 34th, Ste. A.

TAX SERVICES ELECTRONIC FILING & REFUND TRANSFERS Jenny Eggers Garden Oaks Area Tax prep./30 yrs. exp. Se Habla EspaĂąol 713-697-8166

PERSONALS DEAR HEART OF JESUS: In the past I have asked for favors. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favor). Take it dear Jesus, place it within your own heart where your Father sees it. Then in Your merciful eyes it will become Your favor not mine. Amen. P.D.

LEGAL NOTICES Notice of property being sold to satisfy landlordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lien at 2121 Judiway Unit 12 Houston, Texas 77018. Items to be sold on February 25, 2013

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IMPERIAL ANSWERING SVC Live Operators on duty 24/7 â&#x20AC;˘ One Month Free â&#x20AC;˘ Low flat rates

281â&#x20AC;˘821â&#x20AC;˘1882

imperialansweringsvc.com

HELP WANTED PETS & ADULT CARE LIVESTOCK NOW HIRING

WANT TO BUY

WANTED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Any Kind/ Brand. Up to $20.00/box. Prepaid Shipping.

281-764-9615

WE BUY JUNK CARS: Dead or alive. 832-468-7140; 281-2720840. (1-26)

SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Sell it fast with an inexpensive We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t charge for The Leader, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s priceless. Leader classified.

Item Three (3) Coats with Brushtail Possum trim; Five (5) skin pieces of Brushtail Possum.

NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND INTENT TO FORFEIT Notice is hereby given that the United States Department of the Interior is hereby commencing a forfeiture proceeding against the following items of wildlife or wildlife products, which were seized in the Irving area of Texas on the date indicated because they were involved in one or more violations of any of the following laws: Endangered Species Act, l6 U.S.C. Sec. 1538 (c)(1) and 16 U.S.C. 1538 (e) and 16 U.S.C. 1538 (f). These items are subject to forfeiture to the United States under Title l6, U.S.C. Sec. l540(e), 16 U.S.C. Sec. 1377, or l6 U.S.C. Sec. 3374 and Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, Section l4.91(a) and 14.61. Any person with an ownership or financial interest in said items who desires to claim them must file a claim with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Law Enforcement office, 16639 W. Hardy, Houston, TX. 77060-6230. Such claim must be received by the above office by March 27, 2013. The claim will be transmitted to the U.S. Attorney for institution of a forfeiture action in U.S. District Court. If a proper claim is not received by the above office by such date, the items will be declared forfeited to the United States and disposed of according to law. Any person who has an interest in the items may also file with the above office a petition for remission of forfeiture in accordance with Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, and Section 12.24, which petition must be received in such office before disposition of the items. Storage costs may also be assessed.

File No. 2012206336

Seizure 11/07/2012

Value $136,890

713-686-6622 Johnny & Rhea Danna, Owners RETAIL CENTER www.thefoamstore.com WHOLESALE PRICES

832-722-7367

Item 3,784 Red Coral (Corallium japonicum) Jewelry 779 Red Coral (Corallium konjoi) Jewelry

M&M Pet Sitting

Affordable Pet Care In Your Home Will Treat Your Loved Ones As My Own

Mitzi Bonded

SEWING

Value $2501.00

We will meet or beat our mobile grooming competitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prices

X-LARGE DOG KENNEL: Black, polycoated, wire, collapsible. Must be large enough for 100 lb. dog. Please call 713-695-9424 and leave a message. (TF)

READY TO QUIT SMOKING? 90% success rate. Guaranteed. www.houstonstopsmoking.com <http://www.houstonstopsmoking.com/> 800-481-5949. (2-2) CHARMING VENUE FOR YOUR NEXT GATHERING: Houston Heights Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Historic Bungalow, perfect for small events. Recitals, luncheons, fundraisers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; events up to 100 people. Grand piano, stage, round tables, small catering ALTERATIONS: Reasonable. kitchen. Call Lizz Martin, 281Pick up and delivery. Charlotte, 217-6070, regarding this Heights landmark. (TF) 713-694-0003. (TF)

Seizure 10/11/2012

Mobile Pet Spa

TOP CASH PAID FOR YOUR GUNS: FFL concealed handgun class Feb. 23. 713-694-4867. (TF)

Notice is hereby given that the United States Department of the Interior is hereby commencing a forfeiture proceeding against the following items of wildlife or wildlife products, which were seized in the Irving area of Texas on the date indicated because they were involved in one or more violations of any of the following laws: Endangered Species Act, l6 U.S.C. Sec. 1538 (d)(3) and 16 U.S.C. 1538(e) and Lacey Act Amendments of 1981, 16 U.S.C. 3372 (b). These items are subject to forfeiture to the United States under Title l6, U.S.C. Sec. l540(e), 16 U.S.C. Sec. 1377, or l6 U.S.C. Sec. 3374 and Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, Section l4.91(a) and 14.61. Any person with an ownership or financial interest in said items who desires to claim them must file a claim with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Law Enforcement office, 1639 West 23rd Street, P.O. Box 610069, DFW Airport, Texas 75261. Such claim must be received by the above office by March 27, 2013. The claim will be transmitted to the U.S. Attorney for institution of a forfeiture action in U.S. District Court. If a proper claim is not received by the above office by such date, the items will be declared forfeited to the United States and disposed of according to law. Any person who has an interest in the items may also file with the above office a petition for remission of forfeiture in accordance with Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, and Section 12.24, which petition must be received in such office before disposition of the items. Storage costs may also be assessed.

HELP WANTED

Haute Dawgs

www.SellDiabeticStrips.com

NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND INTENT TO FORFEIT

File No. 2012205743

BEST PET SITTERS: Bone PROFESSIONAL CNA AVAILVoyage, 713-688-6363. www. ABLE to care for your loved one. godogusa.com. (TF) References available. Annie, 713694-5632, 832-343-0528. FIND YOUR FRIEND FOR LIFE: Adopt or foster a shelter animal. www.nokill1.org. (TF)

Cell (713)444-8517 (713)682-5246

Dog Grooming Boarding

5229 Brinkman St. Houston, Tx. 77091

$5 Off 1st Visit

puddycuts@ 832â&#x20AC;˘654â&#x20AC;˘7475 hotmail.com

.II=B , ";F?M

5 OFF

GROOMING

Saturdays Only! 3414 Ella Blvd. 713-681-6218

Royalty Pet Center Since 1976

â&#x20AC;˘ Grooming â&#x20AC;˘ Boarding â&#x20AC;˘ Pet Supplies 9900 N. Houston Rosslyn

BUS DRIVERS NEEDED FOR CHURCH SHUTTLE: Approximately six hours a week. Must have CDL and passenger endorsement. Call 713-681-3600. (TF) MECHANIC WITH EXPERIENCE on Econoline vans needed. Experience with A/C, alternators, brakes and suspension. Tools required. Salary commensurate with experience. 713-681-3600. (TF) COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPING COMPANY is currently looking for experienced (one year plus) foremen and laborers. All foremen applicants must have a valid Texas drivers license. For more information, please call 713-688-2435. We are an equal opportunity employer. (S) (TF) LAWN MANAGEMENT COMPANY is currently looking for irrigators with experience. For more information, please call 713-688-2435. Lawn Management Company is an equal opportunity employer. (S) (TF) HOSTESS, WAITSTAFF AND KITCHEN STAFF: AM and PM, P/T-F/T needed for Fridaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant. Call 713-683-3980. (1-26)

Floral Company looking for experienced driver/ parttime floral assistant. Background Check

713-523-7777

713-849-9000

Be Your Own Boss!

QUALITY

4UBSU 5PEBZ 0OMZ

www.royaltypetcenter.com

Feed & Garden

Your Real Feed Store!

â&#x20AC;˘ One of The Oldest Purina Stores In USA â&#x20AC;˘ Feed Needs For All Animals/Birds â&#x20AC;˘ Fertilizers/Plants

4428 N. Main St. 713-862-2323

0)( 6Q UP &BSOJOHT Shop Online 24/7 ZPVSBWPO DPN BOOBNPOUJFM PS $BMM "OOB

4F )BCMB &TQBĂ&#x2014;PM

281-414-8698

QUICK TRASH HAULING â&#x20AC;˘ Garage Cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Lots Tree Cutting â&#x20AC;˘ Fence Debris Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Demolish Free Estimates â&#x20AC;˘ All Concrete

No Job Too Large Or Small ASK FOR

713-529-4174 713-723-9689

â&#x20AC;˘ Crepe Myrtle Trimming â&#x20AC;˘ Fence Building & Repair â&#x20AC;˘ Bed Mulching & Preparation for Spring â&#x20AC;˘ Winter Clean up â&#x20AC;˘ Lawn Resodding â&#x20AC;˘ Full Service Maint. â&#x20AC;˘ Sprinkler Repair

STUMP GRINDING Residential/Commercial FREE ESTIMATES

832-541-0770

713-683-TREE

TREE CLIMBERS

Ranger Tree Service

Expert Tree Services

â&#x20AC;˘ Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Trim â&#x20AC;˘ Prune â&#x20AC;˘ Spray â&#x20AC;˘ Feed â&#x20AC;˘ Top â&#x20AC;˘ Stump Grinding Fully Insured â&#x20AC;˘ Free Est.

10% OFF Labor w/ad

281-866-8859

Specialize In DifĂ&#x201E;cult Removals, Trimming and Planting of New Trees Free Estimates

Insured

Lawn Care

Mowing â&#x20AC;˘ Edging â&#x20AC;˘ Blowing Flower Bedding â&#x20AC;˘ Fertilizing

TREE CUTTING & TRIMMING

FREE ESTIMATES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 17 Yrs. Exp.

(281) 948-4879

Medina Tree & Landscaping Professional Service

â&#x20AC;˘ Tree Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Trimming â&#x20AC;˘ Stump Grinding â&#x20AC;˘ Wood Fences Free Estimates - Insured

713-466-4612

Comm.-Res. â&#x20AC;˘ Trimming â&#x20AC;˘ Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Stump Grinding â&#x20AC;˘ Planting â&#x20AC;˘ Pruning â&#x20AC;˘ Trash Hauling Free Estimate â&#x20AC;˘ Insured Lino 281-704-6828

#ALL TODAY BEAUTIFUL HOME TOMORROW

Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Experienced LAWN & TREE SERVICE Landscaping â&#x20AC;˘ Insured Satisfaction Guaranteed

Al Rojas 713-863-7310 Cell 713-416-1092

We accept all major Credit Cards

www.richtersservicesinc.com

713-690-TREE-(8733)

Wilberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tree Service Complete Tree Service

TREE EXPERTS, INC. Dennis Clooney - Manager 25+ Years Experience â&#x20AC;˘ Tree Trimming/Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Stump Grinding â&#x20AC;˘ Fertilization â&#x20AC;˘ Construction Preparation â&#x20AC;˘ Residential/Commercial Insured Liability and Workmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Comp

713-683-TREE (713-683-8733) FREE ESTIMATES

Valentine Maintenance Spring Maintenance Service Special $29.95 + tax Special $29.95 Repair must be cheked in on or before February 14, 2013

Applies to Walk behind mowers ONLY up to 22â&#x20AC;? cut.

Mower Parts and Supply Co. 4560 W34th @ Mangum (Next to Fiesta Tacos) We service most major brands!

713-686-8306

GENERAL OFFICE CLERK: Part-time, noon-5 p.m., M-F. Fast paced office. Phones, filing, computer input, mail, call past dues. Excellent communication skills, proficient in Microsoft Office and Internet. Dependable, organized and a team player. E-mail resume to resumesjan2013@hotmail.com. NURSERY WORKER NEEDED: Sunday mornings 9 a.m.-noon. Grace United Methodist Church, 1245 Heights Blvd. Contact Rev. Johnson for an interview at 713862-8883.

Millennum Kutzz

NOW HIRING Professional Barbers & Hairstylist Low Booth Rent/$65 wk Call Anita Dixon

832-207-5604

MECHANIC-FLEET: 5 years verif. Experience with heavy duty trucks. High school diploma, clear drivers license, own tools required. CDL a plus. EOE/M/ F/D/V AAP. 31203 Highway 90, Brookshire, Texas 77423. 281-693-4587 or 817-589-7063 x4022. www.sunsetlogistics. com. UNDERCOVER SHOPPER: Retail and dining establishments need undercover clients to judge quality and customer service. Earn up to $100 a day. Fee optional. Please call 1-888493-1945. (TF) ANIMAL LOVERS NEEDED to volunteer at no kill animal shelter in the Heights. Download volunteer application at www.nokill1. org or visit us in person at 107 E. 22nd Street, Tuesday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. (TF)

NEED A NEW COAT?

U S Tree Experts

w Trimming w Pruning w Topping w Removal w Stump Grinding Comm. Res. (ofĂ&#x201E;ce) 713-545-3677 Free Estimates â&#x20AC;˘ Reasonable Rates â&#x20AC;˘ Insured

WE LOVE YOU NW HOUSTON!

VALENTINE DRIVERS NEEDED: Must have your own vehicle and know how to read keymap. Serious callers only. 713-6824355. (2-9)

Call 713-686-6470 for interview

JAMES

â&#x20AC;˘ Landscape Design & Installation â&#x20AC;˘ Maintenance â&#x20AC;˘ Irrigation â&#x20AC;˘ Drainage â&#x20AC;˘ Lighting â&#x20AC;˘ Pool Design & Installation

â&#x20AC;˘ Landscape Installation â&#x20AC;˘ Weather Damage Replacement â&#x20AC;˘ Tree Trim & Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Lawn & Bed Maintenance â&#x20AC;˘ Landscape Lighting â&#x20AC;˘ Organic Soil Amendments

DELIVERY DRIVERS: CDL-A. Top earners: $65k/year. Safety/ perform bonus. Full family benefits. 401k. Food service/ beverage experience A+. 877704-3017. (2-9)

years experience in floral designing. Experienced in managing multiple designers. Ability to multi task and organize time lines. Good communication skills. Floral Designers - Must have experience in floral designing. Fruit Bouquet Manager - Minimum 2 years experience in food industry. Ability to meet deadlines. Retail Store Floral Sales Associate - Sales experience a plus. Excellent pay and benefits with a growing company

TREE CARE

PROFESSIONALS

DRIVERS: Want a professional career? Haul flatbed/OD loads for Trinity Logistics Group. Earn $.41-.51 cpm. CDL-A with two years experience. EEO/AA. Call 800-533-7862. www.trinitytrucking.com. (2-9)

IS NOW INTERVIEWING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: Floral Designer Production Manager - Must have 5

7 DAYS

Gilbertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landscape

DRIVERS: CDL-A, OTR. Great pay/benefits. Vacation/401K/insurance. Two years OTR experience, clean MVR. Able to pass drug and background checks. 281-469-2346. (1-26)

1-800-FLOWERS / SICOLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FLORIST

LET THESE PROFESSIONALS ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR LAWN & GARDEN NEEDS

JR RAMIREZ

BARMAID/WAITRESS NEEDED: Apply in person. FT/PT, days, nights, weekends. Catty-Corner Ice House, 895 Wakefield, 713-294-2054. info@cattycornericehouse.com.

281-272-1875

LAWN & GARDEN GUIDE Winter Services Include:

FEMALE LAUNDRY ATTENDANTS NEEDED: Full-time and part-time positions available. Bilingual Spanish preferred. Apply within. 4211 N. Main. Multiple positions available. (2-2)

College Students or Semi Retired Person Welcome Day and evening shift Call For Interview

Thanks for reading The Leader.

Business or Home

Call Misty after 6pm

PART TIME FOOD PRODUCTION

C.W. TRASH HAULING: Residential/commercial, clean out garages, tractor work, box blade. 832-434-8863. (TF)

â&#x20AC;˘ Appliances â&#x20AC;˘ Yard Debris Garage Clean Outs Free Estimates L Insured L A C

713-412-4338

HIRING NOW!

WORK WANTED

(!5, !7!9 &!34

Home Based Sales Join my team and achieve your dreams

â&#x20AC;˘ Tree Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Shaping & Trimming Insured â&#x20AC;˘ Free Estimates

FRANK ZENIL

713-681-4079 â&#x20AC;˘ 713-410-4265

LUXURY LAWNS

Lawn Maintenance Landscape & Design Sprinklers/Drainage Systems Free Estimates 20 yrs. exp.

713-688-4244 David Bartula

From a new coat of paint to a total remodel. Turn to the Leader ClassiĂ&#x201E;eds to turn your home improvment plans into a reality.

Page 8A â&#x20AC;˘ The Leader â&#x20AC;˘ January 26, 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ @heightsleader

GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENT BURGLAR BARS: Custom made. Residential and commercial. Free estimates. 281-448-2759. www. burglarbarsandmore.com. (TF)

GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Need a little help around the yard? Our Lawn and Garden Guide has just the professionals you want.

HANDYMAN: Build, repair fences, garage doors or decks. Carpentry â&#x20AC;&#x201D; install Hardi-plank, cabinets, windows, doors, locks. Painting, home theater set up. 35+ year Oak Forest resident. Call David, 713-688-1839, leave name and number.

SIFUENTES SERVICES Room Additions â&#x20AC;˘ Ceramic Tile â&#x20AC;˘ Kitchen/Bath â&#x20AC;˘ Flood Damage Repair â&#x20AC;˘ Painting â&#x20AC;˘ Sheetrock, Concrete Small Jobs Welcome Free Estimates

BALDERAS CONCRETE WORK â&#x20AC;˘ Driveways â&#x20AC;˘ Sidewalks â&#x20AC;˘ Patios FREE ESTIMATES

Call Gregory

832-675-2485 713-864-3755

â&#x20AC;˘ Cabinets â&#x20AC;˘ Sheetrock â&#x20AC;˘ Texture â&#x20AC;˘ Driveways â&#x20AC;˘ Gutters

â&#x20AC;˘ Paint â&#x20AC;˘ Trim â&#x20AC;˘ Siding â&#x20AC;˘ RooÂżng â&#x20AC;˘ Flooring

832-208-4871 Adam

ROOFING by SERNA BROS.

281-508-1718

WOOD FENCING Repair & Install Pressure Washing Painting â&#x20AC;˘ Siding Gilbert 281-948-4879

ASAP

ROOFING

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Call 281-836-6414

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ELECTRIC SERVICES

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

ELECTRICIAN All types of new wiring and repairs

HAR BINGER

D&E Electric

electric

Since 1975 Low Rates

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TEL. 713-721-5490 17823

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www.anchoredelectric.com

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TECL #25670

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Since 1953

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+ tax

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ÂŽ

FOR LEASE: Three bedroom, 1Â˝ bath. Oak Forest. Completely No matter what it is youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to updated with appliances. Nonsell, there are Leader readers out smokers. No pets. $1,495. 713there interested in buying it. 503-0282. (TF) BEAUTIFUL FOUR-BEDROOM FOR LEASE: 4-2-2, Inwood North. Fireplace, all appliances. Klein ISD. Currently accepting applications. Mr. Woods, 713213-8358. (2-2)

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OAK FOREST APARTMENT FOR RENT: Two bedrooms with FAIR PRICES ON CARPET/ laundry room and private patio FLOORING SALES, INSTALLAarea. (TF) TION AND REPAIR: Thirty-five years experience. Carpet, hardwoods, vinyl, ceramic tile. Carpet shampoo and restretch carpet. OAK FOREST Dry cleaning now available. 713SHEPHERD FOREST 582-5500. (TF) Got a car, boat, cycle or RV to sell? Use our Big Wheel Deal ads and save.

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www.bobmed.com bobmed@bobmed.com

Page 9A • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

Oak Forest’s designing woman by Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com Forget the six degrees of Kevin Bacon. Anyone who meets Oak Forest resident and clothing designer Jill Focke is just one degree removed from Jennifer Lopez, Stevie Nicks, Lenny Kravitz and Bette Midler, among others. For the past 20 years, Focke has gone on tour with many of music’s biggest names as a wardrobe supervisor. And while she freely admits the excitement of traveling to Paris and Istanbul, she also notes that her job is not all glamour. At Christmas, Focke finished up Jennifer Lopez’s world tour during which she and her staff were responsible for the repair and main- Two Jill Focke creations – one on the designer, seen here in her workroom, tenance of costumes for both Lopez the other on a mannequin. (Photo by Betsy Denson) and eight of her dancers. While the Recently, she’s working a lot with world at large can just admire Lo- three minutes.” After six years, her contract with chiffon she found in Singapore. “I pez’s bejeweled cat suit, Focke had to make sure it stayed perfect night the opera was coming to an end and went back to buy more fabric,” said Focke was looking for a change. In a Focke. “I think it’s got a beachy feel. after night. “I joked that dealing with all stroke of serendipity, a visiting cos- That’s why I call my latest collecthose jewels and crystals was like tume designer needed an assistant tion Beach to Bistro. I really want to sewing a bowling ball to panty- for an upcoming Bette Midler tour. showcase the fabric. Less is more.” Prices range from $100 for a simhose,” she said. “But it was worth it. A week after Focke left the Opera, ple poncho to $400 and up for more she was on a plane to Los Angeles. It looked gorgeous on her.” And while she’s been on the road expensive fabrics and complicated While Focke often works with stylists and designers to guide their with more than 15 of music’s big- designs. In the future, Focke would purchases in a more maintenance gest names over the years, Focke like to expand her business as well friendly direction, she also ends maintains a home base in Hous- as support Goodwin with his Single up remaking things on the road as ton with husband and chef Jer- Man’s Kitchen projects. emy Goodwin, who is increasingly But for now, come March she’s needed. known through his enterprise Sinjoining Fleetwood Mac – who are And then there’s the laundry. gle Man’s Kitchen. playing Houston in June – and “On the big tours we carry our “He saved me from a dreary date looking forward to it. own washer and dryer,” she said. “My favorite part of touring is “Other times we can get it done in at a country western bar in 1990, actually ‘getting on the road’,” Fothe hotel but sometimes I have to and the rest is history,” she said. In between touring, Focke keeps cke said. “After weeks or sometimes figure out where there’s a washateria, which is not always easy in a busy doing what she loves best – months of rehearsals, it is nice to designing clothes under the moni- settle in and do your gig.” foreign country.” For more information about her Focke has been up for most chal- ker J. Ellen Designs. clothing, e-mail jill@j-ellendesigns. Her work has gained her both lenges since she graduated in the early ’80s from the University of fans and friends, like Brooke Aly- com or on Facebook at J. Ellen DePittsburgh with a degree in techni- son who fronts a Stevie Nicks trib- signs. ute band and was looking for some cal theater and costume design. One of her earliest jobs was with stage clothes a while back. Focke the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & was just the person for the job as Bailey Circus where she was a cos- she has both remade old favorites tume shop foreman with the Clown for Nicks and fashioned her some College. “We would teach them how new things, including a new tailto do basic sewing and then de- coat and Rhiannon Sleeves. Alyson says she loves getting sign a signature costume for their particular clown character,” said pieces from Focke because the clothing is so feminine. “I always Focke. At 27, she was tapped to be the feel like I’m going to the ball, and Jill head of wardrobe at the Houston is my fairy godmother,” she said. Focke’s original designs are inGrand Opera, one of the largest opspired by the fabric she’s acquired era companies in the country. For Focke, it was a one-of-a-kind job on her travels. An early favorite was the beaded sari fabric she became experience. “The shows there had hundreds enamored with while helping a and hundreds of costumes,” she wardrobe friend find some pieces said. “One time there were 126 peo- to decorate Paul McCartney’s dressple who had to change costumes in ing room.

P L IN 0 D 1

Oak Forest artists advance to state competition Seven very proud Oak Forest Elementary students have advanced to the state level of competition in the PTA-sponsored Reflections art contest. Started by a PTA president more than 40 years ago in Colorado, Reflections is a national program where students in elementary, middle and high school may submit works of art in the following six categories: dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and visual arts. The advancing winners are: Aidan Clark (Photography Primary), Arden Dabney: (Photography Intermediate), Greer Drinnon (Musical Composition Intermediate), Hannah Needle (Literature Primary); Noah Needle (Literature Intermediate), Rheanna SantaCruz (Visual Arts Intermediate Special Artist) and Mia Santiago (Visual Arts Primary). In November, six volunteers from the local arts and teaching community came to the school to judge all the entries which depicted the theme “The Magic of a Moment.” There were two age groups: Primary (pre-school to Grade 2) and Intermediate (Grades 3-5). All participants were invited to an awards party with pizza and ice

cream. The Best in Show winner was thirdgrader Arden Dabney, who photographed her little sister’s tea party in the woods. “Since the theme was The Magic of a Moment, it has magic in it, so I wanted to do something magical like a fairy tale,” said Dabney. “I didn’t have any other models and Tess, my sister, would look good as a princess. I wanted to do a tea party but didn’t have other people, so I used Tess’s stuffed animals.” The results of state-level judging will be announced by March 31. No matter what the final outcome, Oak Forest PTA chairs Julie Wilson and Letitia Van Campen see great value in the students’ participation. “Reflections is a great way for kids to receive recognition for their creativity and artistic talent and not just their test scores,” said Van Campen. “There are so many kids in HISD with incredible talent and originality.” “I think it’s especially important in the face of huge cuts in the Texas education budget to continue the support of arts in education,” added Wilson. For more information about the Reflections program, visit http://www.txpta. org/programs/reflections/

��

Assumption Catholic School ��

��

Legacies are earned

For more than 45 years, we’ve delivered innovative care to The Heights community. At Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital, we’ve established a local reputation for world-class healthcare. From leading services that are exclusive to the area, to the numerous accolades we’ve received, to a recent $10 million expansion of our Emergency Center, our steadfast commitment to The Heights continues. • Ranked one of America’s Best Hospitals by HealthGrades® for three consecutive years • Recipient of Texas Health Care Quality Improvement Gold Award* from TMF Health Quality Institute • The area’s only accredited Level III Trauma Center • A nationally accredited Chest Pain Center • Supported by 500 physicians locally and 4,000 physicians throughout the Memorial Hermann network • Part of the Memorial Hermann system, with ready access to Life Flight® • A full-service hospital with 260 licensed beds, 38+ ER beds, 22 medical ICU beds and eight cardiac ICU beds For a physician referral, call 713.222.CARE or visit us at memorialhermann.org *As part of the Memorial Hermann Health System: Northwest, Southeast, Southwest and The Woodlands Hospitals.

L J M C M H J N H L T 6 B L 4 M F P T Q P @

Page 10A • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

Eastman • from Page 1A ber-stamping ‚ Eastman pledged “healthy, spirited, respectful debate” during her tenure. She will face re-election during her time at the gavel, and told The Leader she intends to run again in November. Before that, she’s been nominated as Ally Grand Marshal for the Houston Gay Pride Parade and will face a vote for that title. Eastman attended public schools in the Dallas suburb of Richardson,received a bachelor of ﬁne arts degree in art history from the University Eastman’s blood of Texas and a orange tart, ready master’s in so- to be baked and cial work from drizzled with salty Our Lady of caramel sauce. the Lake University in Austin. She worked as a lead social worker for the Communities in Schools enrichment program in San Antonio. She and her husband, Brad, an attorney with Cameron International, have three children -- all of whom attend HISD schools. The couple cofounded the 11th Street Foundation, which provides monetary awards to veteran teachers and college scholarships to at-risk graduates from Reagan and Davis high schools. And about that pie-making:Eastman frequently titillates her social media followers with photos of her creations, provides her pies and tarts to colleagues at meetings, and donates them for fundraising purposes to area groups. Even Superintendent Grier is a fan, tweeting this message last fall during a trustees’ meeting: “Anna Eastman makes a KILLER lemon pie – WORLD CLASS!! She shared one with board today. Really, really good!”

Q&A with Heights resident and HISD Board President Anna Eastman by Charlotte Aguilar charlotte@theleadernews.com It was only 8:45 a.m. – and a holiday, to boot – but this interview with The Leader was already Anna Eastman’s third appointment of the day at a Washington Avenue coﬀeehouse on Monday, four days after her ascendancy from one of nine Houston ISD trustees to president of the school board. And, as always, she was friendly, accessible – but direct. “We’ve got 35 minutes here before I have to leave,” she said. When time was up, it was clear she was anxious to get home to see the presidential inauguration. And, dressed in athletic clothes and donning a cold weather jacket, she hopped on her bicycle and headed down Washington toward home in the Heights. Here are the highlights of that conversation.

ON THE BIGGEST ISSUE FACING HISD IN 2013: BOND PROJECTS

We’re reorganizing the bond oversight committee for that group to have a charter that actually gives them some teeth in their oversight –– not that they’re just informed of what’s happening but that they’re actually given some authority to weigh in as they feel it’s necessary. The bond has the potential to take up a huge amount of energy in the organization, and for me, making sure that we’re rolling it out in a timely manner, that jobs are being awarded fairly, that all parties have access to apply for those jobs, and that we can guarantee the public and the organization that it’s happening handled fairly, so it can be eﬃcient and not cause this extra focus from the classroom is a priority of mine.

ON WALTRIP CONSTRUCTION

In the past, low bid trumped everything. Obviously we want to get the best value for our dollar, but I think anyone who’s been through a construction project knows that not always going for the low-

est bid without considering other factors provides you with the best value for your money. Obviously Waltrip is allotted a large amount of work, and how we look at segueing into the next project from this project is important. There’s a lot of very interested parties. There’s the alumni contingent, that’s very strongly committed to Waltrip, that wants to make sure that the work is done eﬃciently and correctly and to the best standards, and then I think there’s the current parent community, and then there’s the people who live in the neighborhood that are looking toward their own kids going to Waltrip.

ON PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IN SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT

That’s (the Heights-Oak Forest-Garden Oaks area, which she represents) one of the fastest growing areas in Houston -- the infrastructure development, the real estate -- you see restaurants popping up on a daily basis. It’s exploding, and we need to build capacity in our schools because families are moving into that area. You see a real investment by those homeowners in being a party in turning around and the revival of these schools. Look at Garden Oaks Elementary. They transitioned to all Montessori three years ago. They have got, I think, 500 applications for their entry-level classrooms; it’s close to doubled in the past couple of years, the applications to these schools. I think people want want to send their children to school in the community where they live. And there’s a lot of socioeconomic diversity, even though the real estate development is in the neighborhoods, and what I see is people who might not have chosen HISD in the past are also committed to the families that have been there all along and being a party together to upgrading the level of education we oﬀer.

ON ETHICS

That decision we had around ethics that resulted in tightening and updating those policies – just having the public

discussion, I think, changes behavior. I’m not a big believer that there’s this cast of nefarious characters doing horrible things. I think people do get lazy and comfortable and embedded in habits, and every now and then we need to discuss publicly and make sure we’re operating in the best way possible. A lot of the focus of the discussion was on trustees, but there are a lot of people who work in the organization that needed to be thinking about those kinds of things, too, and we changed our point structure.

ON EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS – SUPT. GRIER’S AND OTHERS

Clearly the majority of the board has decided to extend Dr. Grier’s contract (editor’s note: twice in the past year, into 2016). I think it’s easy for people to say I have an issue with Dr. Grier personally, and I’ve been pretty consistent in my view on employment contracts and how they function in our management structure. I did not support multi-year contracts for principals when we recently voted to offer those. Years ago, HISD put all of our principals on an annually renewing term contract, and I believe that’s beneficial because it’s so difficult to terminate a principal or move someone on. And our teachers are on annually renewing term contracts…I theoretically believe it’s important for the leadership to put their jobs on the same level as our teachers. Our teachers perform essentially the most important function in the organization. I think each person should be held to the same level of accountability.

Band • from Page 1A “It’s awesome getting to see places I have never seen in my life.” “It such a cool experience to get the chance to be all over instead of just at Waltrip,” said Alex Gonzalez, also an 11th-grader. That night, they played the red carpet for arriving dignitaries and fellow Texans at the Texas State Society’s Black Tie & Boots Ball along the Potomac River. Some ballgoers stopped and took in the full 45-minute performance. Among Waltrip’s repertoire – of course – “The Eyes of Texas” and “Deep in the Heart of Texas.” “It was wonderful to see everyone at the ball all dressed up and to see them stop to listen to us on the red carpet,” said Odalis Saldana, a 12thgrader. “It was so amazing seeing all the people dressed up and was so cool to be representing Texas,” said 10thgrader Rayvan Gray. There were a couple disappointments, too. The band didn’t receive an invitation to represent Texas in the inaugural parade, and because of the frenzy on D.C. streets, it was decided that attending the parade could jeopardize their launch time for the return trip. In addition, security issues with the Secret Service made it impossible for members to accept a last-minute alternative invite from Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee – whose fundraising got Waltrip to its goal at the last minute – to play at her inaugural party Sunday night. Still, the trip was a dream come true for both the youngsters and the adults who accompanied them. “I’m so thankful to HISD, our parents and the Houston community for allowing us to have this opportunity to perform,” said Robert Cameron, assistant band director. The band began raising nearly $150,000 to make the trip when they ﬁrst received the invitation last November because of their reputation as the region’s top 4A band. Zamora is a 2012 Waltrip grad and former band member, now a freshman at the University of St. Thomas. A resident of Garden Oaks, she served as a chaperone on the trip

ON PUBLIC SCHOOLS & CHOICE Both my husband and I are products of public schools. I’m a big supporter

of school choice. My kids go to magnet schools in HISD. We chose to live in the Heights because it’s socioeconomically diverse. I just believe in our public schools. Our kids have gotten a great education thus far. What our kids are learning at school complements what we’re teaching them at home. The whole reason why I ran for the board is that I wanted other kids to have that same experience.

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ON DIFFERENCES OF OPINION

I think it’s really easy for us to fall into this ‘Oh, Anna and Dr. Grier have personal issues,’ speciﬁcally around his own management. But it’s really been a consistent position of mine. Last week at the board meeting, I think I was pretty speciﬁc and concise, that I’d like to foster a space where we can have a healthy, spirited and respectful debate. And I am a believer that when we have that healthy tension is when we come up with our best

Stevens • from Page 1A has another mural in Cherryhurst Park. Donato says the school and its students feel like a family to him and that he makes the effort to be there for those kids who need extra support. He was enthusiastic about participating in the work day. “It was time for a change here,” he said. “If we all work together, we can get it done right.” At noon, Principal Anderson

work. More than challenging anything speciﬁc that’s happening, I would like to see a space where we have those discussions and come to a viewpoint where, whatever the ﬁnal decision happens to be, it’s informed by all the opinions of those on the board and in the leadership.

P WS for WINE

Sip & Swirl 30 paw-picked wines and beers paired Tickets $50 A portion of the with tasty tidbits. proceeds will be donated to

stood at the front entrance of the school and surveyed the results of the morning’s labor. “I can’t believe how great it all looks,” she said. “I’m just thrilled.” Another beautiﬁcation day is scheduled for Feb. 23. By that time,

Principal Anderson should have a better idea what improvements the HISD contractor will implement with the $5,000 allocation the school recently received. Stand for Stevens organizer Catherine DeBlieux said plans for

a technology drive are also in the works to supplement the school’s existing tools. To get involved, join Stand for Stevens on Facebook or e-mail standforstevens@gmail.com for more information.

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Page 1B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

EXPERT

Can anything top 2012?

OPINIONS

As part of our growing real estate coverage, this is the introduction of a new section in Leader Listings called “Expert Opinions.” In this section, we’ll ask Realtors in the area to answer a specific question about our market. In this first installment, we asked a very simple question. We asked why the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and North Houston areas are such a popular place to buy a house. Is it because of our location, the economy, the low interest rates (great for buyers, horrible for retirees who live off those interest rates), or the value of the homes in this area. In nearly all cases, our Experts mentioned the location, which usually drew a follow-up question. The location of our neighborhoods hasn’t changed. We’ve always been right here on the map. So is there something greater at play? The answers varied – some focused on the overall market, some very specific to location.

Melodie Matlock Oakington Realty

The biggest driver to Houston’s strong real estate market is jobs. Oak Forest, Garden Oaks, The Heights, Timbergrove and Lazybrook offer close-in inner city living while also offering great, stable neighborhoods, with beautiful trees and good schools. Easy access to all that Houston has to offer, and a short commute! Within these neighborhoods are new construction and beautifully remodeled and well cared for homes. Everyone is looking at Texas for opportunities, quality of life and affordability, and that makes for a strong real estate market. According to the New York Times, Houston has regained all of the jobs that it lost during the recession. We have so many people moving here, whether from job relocations or people just looking to get hired. During the recent real estate downturn there were very few new homes built and people were staying in their current homes, Matlock and this created a lot of pent-up demand for housing. Home interest rates have not been this low since the 1940s. The demand for move-in ready housing in these neighborhoods is high and homes that come on the market, if properly priced and presented, can receive multiple offers. It’s a great time to sell and it’s a great time to buy before the Spring and Summer price increases. (Lumber alone is up 20 percent.) I have buyers who are looking everyday, just waiting for their special home to come on the market.

Home sales surged and didn’t even falter during normally slow December Year-end home sale figures confirmed what’s been reported every month: that Leader communities are sizzling for buyers and sellers. December figures supplied to The Leader by the Houston Association of Realtors continued a 12month trend of increased sales, dwindling inventory and increasing values (and prices). Leading the way was the 77007 ZIP code, with a total of 705 single family homes selling in 2012, a 42 percent increase over the previous year. Average price rose 3 percent, pushing the price to more than $400,000. Combining increased sales with the greatest hike in value was the 77018 ZIP code -- Oak Forest and Garden Oaks communities. Sales totaled a nice even 500 in 2012, an increase of 23 percent, and prices showed a 14 percent gain, with the average price of a home standing at $305,000 at year’s end.

Values increased by 5 percent in the Heights’ 77008 ZIP, reaching an average of $360,000 for a single family residence, with a 30 percent rise in sales to 835 in 2012. The 77009 ZIP saw 350 sales last year over 2011, for a 20 percent gain, and the average price increased 4 percent to $250,000. Eighty-ﬁve homes sold in the 77091 ZIP in 2012, a 9 percent increase, with a 7 percent value hike, to $85,500. An while the 77092 area showed a healthy 20.5 percent rise in sales last year, it was the only Leader area to show a decline in value, dropping 3 percent to an average single family home price of $139,000. Sales of homes throughout the greater Houston area never let up in 2012, driven by a combination of strong local jobs numbers and historically low interest rates. December marked the 19th straight

month that sales were in the black, and it was another month in which housing inventory shrunk and prices rose. In fact, both median and average home prices achieved historic highs as the year came to a close. According to the latest monthly data prepared by the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR), December single-family home sales increased 11.4 percent versus December 2011. Contracts closed on 5,039 homes, driving inventory down to 3.7 months, the lowest level since December 1999. All housing segments saw gains in December except for the low end of the market—those homes priced at $80,000 and below. Homes priced from $500,000 and above registered the highest sales volume and accounted for another hike in prices.

see Sales • Page 10B

A flip that never did

Pamela Eﬀerson Keller Williams - The Metropolitan

The real estate market is really hot and has been for at least the last six to seven months. In the Inner Loop and Near Inner Loop areas I service (Timbergrove, Lazybrook, Heights, Shady Acres, Midtown etc.) the challenge has been a lack of inventory. New listings that are priced well, show well and that are in good locations go under contract very quickly. In addition there are a lot of buyers actively searching for homes, some are left from 2012 and many are new to the market. The carry forward of low interest rates for buyers and shortage of inventory creates a very competitive real estate environment. Efferson I do think we have people moving back to the city. I have seen more mature buyers (i.e. people that have raised their families and now want to be close entertainment, museums and the theater). Although Houston is a very large, diverse city and many other parts of the city offer entertainment and fine dining, the renovation of downtown, and the growth of Eado and the Galleria area has increased interest. The high price of gas, employment opportunities in downtown and the easy acccess to the energy corridor has also added to the appeal of the Inner Loop and Near Inner Loop.

Bill Baldwin Boulevard Realty

The real estate market today is totally driven by inventory – or the lack of it. We are in a unbalanced market – more buyers than properties or sellers. This drives the market up, creates a total sense of urgency and is the driving force behind the ”excellent real estate market.” While this usually wouldn’t be good for buyers, with historic low interest rates, rising rental prices and the expectation the market Baldwin is going to be doing well for years to come, it is still a good time to buy also. Good for sellers, good for buyers and good for all.

Kelly Gould Keller Williams Realty - The Metropolitan

I believe our area is experiencing so much positive activity because, in addition to many new restaurants, bars and shops opening in the area, you can also buy a 3,000-plus square foot new construction in the $700,000 price range, and you just can’t ﬁnd that in other close-in neighborhoods. Buyers are taking notice and the Heights/Garden Oaks/Oak Forest areas are shaping up to be a popular place Gould to buy.

Susan Pesl Prudential Premier Properties

The reason why the market around Oak Forest and the Heights is so good is because of the location. You are close to all the major freeways, downtown, the Medical Center, the Galleria and Memorial City. You have lots of hike and bike trails and Memorial Park for exercising along with numerous entertainment options. As for location, I think traﬃc has something to do with it. I think people are just tired of Pesl driving, especially with all the construction on 290.

Got a question for our experts? Email us at news@theleadernews.com and we’ll ask it.

Jeanne Wagner initially bought this home in Ella Lee Forest as an investment property. But when she opened things up, including the combo-living-dining area pictured above, she decided she couldn’t leave the home. (Submitted Photo)

Warner transforms investment home, then can’t leave

by Cynthia Lescalleet For The Leader

he remodeling project was supposed to be a quick flip, one that tweaked a 1959-built home in Ella Lee Forest into something with modern flow, features and function. Somewhere in the midst of the overhaul, though, owner Jeanne Warner veered from her investor mentality, in part because “I liked it so much I couldn’t part with it,” she says. That shift upped the project’s scope, budget and schedule. Warner, an accountant, had previously tackled smaller renovations elsewhere, making sure not to spend more on an improvement than it would bring on the market. She admits that she might have been “a bit cocky” when taking on the do-over in Ella Lee Forest, a project she refers to, somewhat A monthly look at a affectionately, as “My Little renovation project in Money Pit.” our neighborhoods. The ranch-style home falls within the tiny subdivision’s four-street loop off Ella Boulevard. Warner considers herself one of the remodeling pioneers to hit the 50-year-old enclave, which has mature trees and ditch drainage rather than curbs, gutters and sidewalks. When house hunting, she had noted how its homes and lots are larger and less expensive than in other near north communities. “It’s a cute house now,” Warner says. “Every inch of space is used. It’s so versatile.” At 2,017 sq. ft., the home’s floor plan includes a combo-living-dining room, a kitchen with breakfast bar open to the den, 2 full bathrooms and 3 large bedrooms with walk-in closets, an unusual feature for homes of that age, she notes. Warner’s mid-project decision to give those closets high-end shelving components was one of several upgrades that swelled the original $35,000-$40,000 budget. So did adding a frameless shower, network distribution system and plantation shutters. The real surprise expense, though, came early on: restoring order to the 8,900-sq-ft. lot by clearing overgrowth and dead limbs, replacing the lawn and installing a drainage system. The yard looks larger, Warner reports. Not all landscaping changed, though. “The azaleas are amazing.” Elsewhere outside, cedar posts and shutters

DOVER

see Do Over • Page 10B

The pictures at left and below show the transformation that happened in the kitchen area. At top left is a before-photo of the kitchen when the home was purchased. Immediately below is a view from the new, redesigned kitchen, looking out over the den and dining area – including a ﬁreplace in the middle of the room. And the photo below shows the new lighting and bar area for dining. (Submitted Photos)

Page 2B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

What can $200K buy in Houston? The researchers and data crunchers at Metrostudy recently released a report that evaluated what $200,000 can buy in the Houston area. This study was a follow up to past reports on the “Rent vs Buy” ratio, which already favors buying a home if you’re renting a singlefamily home or Class-A apartment. Class A apartments are defined as having 955 square feet, an average monthly rent of $1,411, and an average price per square foot of $1.48. Class B apartments are defined as having 890 square feet, monthly rent of $879 and a cost of 99 cents per square foot. This ratio is truer now than when it was first posted in May 2012. It also says that Class-B apartments moved within striking distance of becoming a “buy” scenario for the consumer. Class-A and Class-B

Based on the analysis by Metrostudy, it makes more sense to buy a house than to rent. The formula is derived from factors such as interest rates and costs per square foot. (Submitted Photo)

apartment designations are different for each market, so Metrostudy included the following market averages as of the end of 2012, according to Apartment Data Services, a trusted source of Metrostudy on

apartment market commentary. The report says that in Houston, housing has always been relatively affordable due to the availability of land. If you translate the monthly rent payments into the principal

and interest (P&I) payments on a home mortgage, you’ll ﬁnd that those monthly payments will buy you a good amount of home in the Greater Houston market. This price point seemed ideal for those consumers choosing between renting an apartment or buying a home. If you calculate the monthly P&I payment on a $200,000 loan with a 3.5 percent interest rate, you arrive at $898.09. This total falls right between the market averages of the above listed rents, and below those Class-A and Class-B averages of the apartment developments inside the 610 Loop. Established in Houston in 1975, Metrostudy is the leading provider of primary and secondary market information to the housing and related industries nationwide. For more information, visit www.metrostudy.com .

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Demolition & Building Permits This list of permits in Leader neighborhoods is provided by the city of Houston’s Planning & Development Services Division of the Public Works & Engineering Department. The information, which includes the permit number, is intended to give residents the chance to review information in their neighborhoods, including demolition, new construction, remodeling and change-of-use permits. You may obtain additional information about these permits by visiting the website at www. houstonpermittingcenter.org. If you have questions about any of these permits, please contact the Code Enforcement Group at 832-394-9000.

DEMOLITION PERMITS • 77007 2012/12/26 12120490 611 ALLSTON ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77007 2013/01/18 12071701 4415 SCHULER STDEMO RES /SEWER DISC W / ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12109439 • 77007 2013/01/17 12109562 4119 CENTER ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77008 2012/12/27 12116812 611 W 12TH ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77008 2013/01/16 09027196 1728 W 24TH ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77009 2012/12/27 12120253 1024 ROBBIE ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISCONNECT • 77009 2013/01/16 13001905 1701 GANO ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77018 2012/12/28 12118674 1339 LA MONTE LN DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77018 2012/12/28 12121593 1622 CHIPPENDALE RD DEMO RES/SEWER DISC

BUILDING PERMITS • 77007 2012/12/27 12108214 5555 WASHINGTON AVE V RESTAURANT REMODEL 1-1-2-A2-B 2006 IBC • 77007 2012/12/27 12108869 402 YALE ST REMODEL LAB AREA OF JUICE MANUFACTURER 1-2-2-F2-B 06 IBC • 77007 2012/12/26 12112990 2500 SUMMER ST 1211 LIGHT MFG/OFFICE SUITE BUILDOUT 1-2-2-F2-B 2006 IBC • 77007 2012/12/26 12113823 2500 SUMMER ST 1216 LIGHT MFG/OFFICE SUITE BUILDOUT 1-1-2-F2-B 2006 IBC • 77007 2012/12/28 12118788 607 ALLSTON ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2012/12/28 12118793 605 ALLSTON ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2012/12/27 12121512 800 DOROTHY ST RESIDENTIAL EXTERIOR REMODEL • 77007 2012/12/27 12121645 5229 CORNISH ST RESIDENTIAL REPAIRS PER REPAIR LIST • 77007 2012/12/27 12121740 601 SAWYER ST 650 HI-RISE OFFICE REMODEL 1-7-1-B-B 2006 IBC / FA • 77007 2012/12/27 12121743 601 SAWYER ST 600 HI-RISE OFFICE REMODEL 1-7-1-B-B 2006 IBC / FA • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 11096079 3407 HONSINGER ST NEW TOWNHOUSE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 11096080 3405 HONSINGER ST NEW TOWNHOUSE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/15 Building Pmt 12016133 4809 ROSE ST NEW PARKING LOT 2006 IBC • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12086962 6105 STILLMAN ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER OF 6 • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12086965 Ad STILLMAN # 37424ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED 6107

GARAGE MASTER # 12086962 • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12086971 6109 STILLMAN ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12086962 • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12086976 6111 STILLMAN ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12086962 • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12086978 6113 STILLMAN ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12086962 • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12086980 6115 STILLMAN ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12086962 • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12103546 5427 PETTY ST A NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-3-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12103554 5427 PETTY ST C NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-3-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12105847 4316 O’REILLY ST NEW S.F RESIDENCE W/ATT GARAGE 1-3-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12105849 4314 O’REILLY ST NEW S.F RESIDENCE W/ATT GARAGE 1-3-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12106541 5427 PETTY ST B NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-3-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12109439 1818 DART ST NEW S.F RESIDENCE W / ATTACHED GARAGE (MASTER OF 4) 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12109442 1822 DART ST NEW S.F RESIDENCE W / ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12109439 • 77007 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12109462 1826 DART ST NEW S.F RESIDENCE W / ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12109439 • 77007 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12109465 1830 DART ST NEW S.F RESIDENCE • 77007 2013/01/17 Building Pmt 12109834 1612 PATTERSON ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/15 Building Pmt 12112474 1604 KNOX ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/15 Building Pmt 12112478 1606 KNOX ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12113443 733 ALLSTON ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/DETACHED GARAGE 1-2-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77007 2013/01/14 MD-BUILDING PT 12115290 6507 RODRIGO ST A NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MDI) • 77007 2013/01/15 MD-BUILDING PT 12115294 6507 RODRIGO ST B NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MDI) • 77007 2013/01/14 DEMOLITION 13001716 1509 BIRDSALL ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77007 2013/01/15 DEMOLITION 13001909 6020 GLENCOVE ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77007 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 13002347 1902 WASHINGTON AVE E MINOR CLUB REMODEL 1-1-5-A2-B 2006 IBC • 77007 2013/01/16 DEMOLITION 13002581 511 CORTLANDT ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77007 2013/01/16 DEMOLITION 13003627 4111 ALLEN ST DEMO RES/ SEWER DISC • 77008 2012/12/26 12097154 1416 W 21ST ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATT GARAGE 1-3-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77008 2012/12/26 12097168 1422 W 21ST ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATT GARAGE 1-3-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77008 2012/12/26 12104657 1520 NASHUA ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER # 12104661

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• 77008 2012/12/26 12104661 1518 NASHUA ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE MASTER OF 2 • 77008 2012/12/28 12106095 2526 DROXFORD DR RESIDENTIAL ADDITION • 77008 2012/12/27 12114748 814 W 26TH ST A NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-2-5R3-B 2006 IRC • 77008 2012/12/27 12117474 1241 NELSON FALLS (PVT) LN NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MASTER OF 2) • 77008 2012/12/27 12117476 1245 NELSON FALLS (PVT) LN NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MASTER # 12117474) • 77008 2012/12/28 12120507 936 HEIGHTS BLVD BLD 1 EMERGENCY HABITABILITY REPAIRS SUB BLD 1 SEE MASTER 12085979 • 77008 2013/01/14 OCC-BLDG PMT 12053094 707 W 24TH ST OCC REPORT/AUTO/BODY REPAIR/13,800 SQ FT/94 CODE • 77008 2013/01/17 Building Pmt 12113060 350 W 19TH ST SHELL/CORE REMODEL 1-2-2-SHB/SPRINK/ 2006 IBC • 77008 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12117456 1244 HOBBS REACH (PVT) LN NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MASTER # 12117460) • 77008 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12117460 1240 HOBBS REACH (PVT) LN NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MASTER OF 2) • 77008 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12117467 1236 HOBBS REACH (PVT) LN NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MASTER# 12117469) • 77008 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12117469 1232 HOBBS REACH (PVT) LN NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE (MASTER OF 2) • 77008 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12120047 2064 OXFORD ST SCHOOL REMODEL 1-1-5-E-B 2006 IBC • 77008 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12121688 1818 WILLOWMOSS CT NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-1-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77008 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12121694 931 NASHUA ST NEW S.F. RESIDENCE W/ATTACHED GARAGE 1-1-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77008 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 13001033 1030 LAWRENCE ST RESIDENTIAL ADDITION/ REMODEL/ AND REPAIRS PER REPAIR LIST • 77008 2013/01/15 Building Pmt 13003236 714 WILKEN ST RESIDENTIAL ADDITION & REMODEL • 77008 2013/01/15 Building Pmt 13004126 427 W 20TH ST 301 HI-RISE OFFICE REMODEL 1-7-1-B-B 2006 IBC / FA • 77008 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 13004323 2366 ARLINGTON ST RESIDENTIAL SHADE STRUCTURE • 77008 2013/01/17 Building Pmt 13004964 842 W 24TH ST RESIDENTIAL REPAIRS PER REPAIR LIST • 77008 2013/01/17 Building Pmt 13005146 1516 LAIRD ST RESIDENTIAL REPAIRS PER REPAIR LIST • 77008 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 13005302 1607 ARLINGTON ST RESIDENTIAL REPAIR PER REPAIR LIST • 77008 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 13005344 1217 W 20TH ST RESIDENTIAL • 77009 2012/12/26 OCC-BLDG PMT 12085038 2009 COMMON ST BLD 1 OCC REPORT/APARTMENT BUILDING/4 UNITS/UK CODE • 77009 2012/12/28 12093653 1024 ROBBIE ST NEW S.F RESIDENCE 1-1-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77009 2012/12/27 12114685 1210 E 26TH ST RESIDENTIAL WINDOW REPLACEMENT PER REPAIR LIST • 77009 2012/12/27 12117110 2714 CHAPMAN ST RESIDENTIAL PLUMBING REPAIRS PER REPAIR LIST • 77009 2012/12/28 12121369 206 VINCENT ST RESIDENTIAL ADDITION/REMODEL/REPAIRS REPAIRS AS SPEC LIST 1-1-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77009 2013/01/14 DEMOLITION 11089156 2015 CHAPMAN ST DEMO RES/SEWER DISC • 77009 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 12075003 1023

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HOGAN ST B CONVERT LEASE SPACE TO GAME ROOM 1-1-5-A3-B 2006 IBC • 77009 2013/01/17 Building Pmt 12113011 616 HIGHLAND ST RESIDENTIAL ADDITION/REMODEL • 77009 2013/01/15 Building Pmt 12113736 203 NORTHWOOD ST NEW GARAGE APARTMENT • 77009 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 12119057 1023 W MELWOOD ST RESIDENTIAL ADDITION/REMODEL • 77009 2013/01/18 Building Pmt 12120607 1420 WRIGHTWOOD ST NEW S. F. RESIDENCE W/ATT CARPORT 1-4-5-R3-B 2006 IRC SPK • 77009 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 13001288 2531 WHITE OAK DR RESIDENTIAL ADDITION/ REMODEL • 77009 2013/01/14 Building Pmt 13003709 703 GRACELAND ST RESIDENTIAL REPAIRS PER REPAIR LIST • 77009 2013/01/17 Building Pmt 13004473 532 EUCLID ST RESIDENTIAL ADDITION • 77009 2013/01/16 Building Pmt 13004512 932 PIZER ST RESIDENTIAL REPAIR SPEC LIST • 77018 2012/12/26 12092468 428 MARTIN ST BLD D NEW FABRICATION FACILITY BUILDING 1-1-2F1-B 2006 IBC • 77018 2012/12/26 12111019 305 GARDEN OAKS BLVD NEW GENERATOR INSTALLATION • 77018 2012/12/26 12121321 3406 N SHEPHERD DR CONVERT SPEC LEASE TO OFFICE(DRYCLEANER) REMODEL 1-1-5-B-B 2006IBC • 77018 2012/12/27 12121724 948 WAKEFIELD DR OFFICE/WAREHOUSE REPAIRS PER CHECKLIST 2006 IBC • 77091 2012/12/27 11121179 1025 MANSFIELD ST RESIDENTIAL FOUNDATION MOVE-IN 1-1-5-R3-B 2006 IRC • 77091 2012/12/28 12112719 5726 2/3 STUEBNER AIRLINE RD C UPGRADES TO EXISTING CELL TOWER / 2006 IBC • 77091 2012/12/28 12120591 6806 RADCLIFFE ST RESIDENTIAL SOLAR PANEL ADDITION • 77091 2012/12/26 12121340 420 HOHLDALE ST RESIDENTIAL REPAIRS PER SPEC LIST • 77092 2012/12/28 12096115 4141 COSTA RICA RD BLD C OFFICE REMODEL IN A SCHOOL 1-1-1-E/B-B 2006 IBC

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LEADER PUZZLER SOLUTIONS

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Page 3B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

Ad # 37410

Neighborhood News

Incentives, camaraderie afoot for Oak Forest Runners Club

The Oak Forest Homeowners Association, along with the Oak Forest Chill and Brother’s Pizzeria, are sponsoring a new social running group, the Oak Forest Runners Club. The running program is each Tuesday evening, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Oak Forest Chill, 3542 Oak Forest Drive and Judiway. The program is free, but residents are encouraged to join the Oak Forest Homeowners Association, $20 a year per family. Runners or walkers can sign up and run/walk one of two courses, a fourmile route down DuBarry to T.C. Jester Park and back, or a two-mile roundtrip down DuBarry to Piney Woods. After 10 runs, runners will receive the “Earn the Squirrel “ and can work toward other running incentives: 10 Runs = Club T-Shirt 30 Runs = Oak Forest Homeowners Association Mug 40 Runs = Brothers Pizzeria (50 percent off

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Oﬀ and running with the new Oak Forest Club are Christine Thorp, Lucy Fisher Cain, Blake Krause, Meredith Krause, Shawn Simmons, Phil Simmons, Toto and Craig Powers, OFHA president. (Submitted photo)

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coupon) 50 Runs = Oak Forest Chill Shirt and $25 bar tab 60 Runs = Bells My Own Cleaners (50 percent Discount off coupon) 75 Runs = Certiﬁcate of Accomplishment from OFHA 100 Runs = Your Photo in The Leader For information, call 281-685-9929 or email the association at hotline@myoakforest.org.

Reserve now for Heights Association awards dinner

The annual HHA Volunteer Appreciation and Community Improvement Awards Dinner Feb. 24 starts with a BYOB Mix-N-Mingle Hour at 5 p.m. at the Heights Fire Station, 107 W. 12th St., followed by dinner and the recognition of volunteers, including awards for 2012 Citizen of the Year, Corporate Citizen of the Year, and the Marcella Perry Award, plus results of the 2012 Community Improvement Awards, consisting of Residential Renovation, Commercial Renovation, Residential New Construction, and Commercial New Construction. Tickets will be $25

per person or $200 for a reserved table of eight. Seating is limited and reservations will be available on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis. For information, email info@houstonheights. org

BigCityConstructionCo.com

Send news items from your homeowners association or civic club to news@theleadernews. com. We’re also looking for correspondents to be our eyes and ears in each Leader community and to write regular columns.

Houston’s leading architects and builders, most notably John F. Staub and Birdsall P. Briscoe. The larger collection includes photographs, documents, architectural drawings, and tools used in the manufacturing process, as well as design molds and metal castings. Preservation Houston is recognizing Madeleine Callery Hussey with a Good Brick Award for her efforts to conserve the Weber artifacts. Hussey’s award will be one of 14 Good Bricks presented during The Cornerstone Dinner on Thursday evening, Feb. 28 at River Oaks Country Club. Reserve at http://cornerstone13.eventbrite.com for The Cornerstone Dinner, Preservation Houston’s largest fundraising event.

$1699 Plus Tax Includes Materials

Building Relationships

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Last push for Shepherd Forest membership

The Shepherd Forest Civic Club is wrapping up its January membership drive and is encouraging all homeowners and renters to join. Annual dues of $20 per household help support beautiﬁcation activities, Citizens on Patrol, and activities including the Christmas dinner, annual picnic and Easter egg hunt and can be made conveniently through PayPal. For more and a link to PayPal, go to www. shepherdforest.org.

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Call for Details

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Classic local architectural collection now online Almost 950 digital objects from the Weber-Staub-Briscoe Architectural Collection may now be viewed online at http:// scholarship.rice.edu/handle/1911/68494 through the Rice University Digital Scholarship Archive. The website features images of pattern boards, design molds and metal castings of architectural details such as stair rails, fencing and other metalwork ornaments manufactured by Weber Iron & Wire Company from the 1930s to the 1990s. Founded in the late 1920s by Herman Weber, the company fabricated high-quality custom architectural details. The ﬁrm was instrumental in creating original designs and ﬁne duplications of nineteenthcentury ornamental ironwork for many of

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Plant a tree in W. 11th St. Park Volunteers are being sought to plant large and small trees Saturday at West 11th Street Park, its canopy thinned by the drought, in a rain-orshine project sponsored by the Friends of the park. The planting will start at 8:30 a.m. at the ball ﬁeld at West 11th and Shirkmere. Volunteers are asking to bring shovels and work gloves since only a limited number of tools will be available on loan from Trees for Houston. Refreshments including Starbucks coffee, donuts and apple juice will be provided. The Houston Parks & Recreation Department is providing 100 saplings, including sweet gum, cypress, bur oak, loblolly pine and black gum, and an expert will be on hand to insure proper planting techniques and to answer questions. In addition, the Friends of West 11th Street Park have purchased a number of 30- and 40-gallon trees at a cost of $1,500 from Trees for Houston to provide shade more quickly. Donations are being sought to offset the expense and may be made to Friends of West 11th Street Park, P.O. Box 7679, Houston TX 77270-7679.

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This is a photo of the Botanical Design Ornament (1930) created by the Weber Iron & Wire Co. This is one example of nearly 950 digital objects that can now be viewed online.

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Page 4B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

LEADER LOVEABLES

��

All votes – and we receive daily both online and at our office – will be tallied to determine the final five winners. Remember voting ends Monday, Jan. 28 at 5p.m.

Vote #1

Vote #2

��

If you haven’t already, make sure to go online to cast your votes. The online voting has been a really nice addition to this contest allowing comments and heated daily competition between entries. We have also added a Daily Online Vote Winner Gallery - so check it out.

��

Go online at www.theleadernews.com to discover the names and stories behind some of these lovable pets

While it’s our opinion that all these entries are winners, there can only be ﬁve that take home the prizes offered by our contest sponsors.

��

Vote #3

Gift Sponsors Are Gretchen & Ivy’s Pet Sitting Bone Voyage Pet Sitting PetPals Pet Sitting Haute Dawgs Mobile Pet Spa Puddy Cuts Darlene’s Flowers and Gifts Scoop le Poop Pet Waste Removal Service Royalty Pet Center

Longhorn Feed & Seed Harmony Electric Co. Arne’s Warehouse Store The Critter Sitter Fairbanks Animal Clinic Big Dog & Ms. Kitti’s Pet Sitting Services Smart Dog Training Center Tara Wikoﬀ, Realtor

Vote #4

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�� U sing the latest in state-of-the-art technology and medical protocols, the doctors and staff at Fairbanks Animal Clinic provide quality care to family pets, but with a commonsense approach. The clinic team knows that routine exams and consultations Fairbanks Animal doctors and staff are the most important aspects in pet health, at any age. That is why they perform routine analysis of blood, stool and urine that often ﬁnd hidden disease and parasites in pets. While offering the latest in advanced technology, Fairbanks Animal Clinic is also cognizant of customers’ pocketbooks and thus tries to control health costs. The clinic features a complete in-house lab, ultrasound, digital x-rays, EKG and other technical equipment to diagnose illness or monitor pets’ health. Using the safest anesthetics and electronic monitoring, the doctors and surgical assistants perform both routine and involved surgeries where pet safety and comfort are foremost in our minds. The clinic has recently remodeled and is planning a 30th Anniversary celebration with tours of our facilities where you can see ﬁrst hand where your family pet is attended. The clinic also operates Northwest Pet Lodge and Health Resort. Call 713-937-7274 for an appointment or come by 7151 Fairbanks North Houston (a mile north of Hwy. 290) or visit our web site at www.fairbanks. vetsuite.com for more information.

Page 5B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

LEADER LOVEABLES Go online at www.theleadernews.com to discover the names and stories behind these lovable pets

Vote #26

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Page 6B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

LEADER LOVEABLES Go online at www.theleadernews.com to discover the names and stories behind these lovable pets

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Page 7B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • @heightsleader

NEWS FROM YOUR PEWS

Free lunch at Oaks Christian

Oaks Christian Church is having a free lunch from noon until 2 p.m. Saturday Jan. 26. All in the community are welcome to attend. Oaks Christian Church is located at 1216 Bethlehem at Ella Boulevard.

Activities under way at St. Matthew’s UMC

The Garden Club will present Jonni Almoney, Thursday, Jan. 24. This will be Jonni’s second visit to St. Matthew’s. Her topic for January’s meeting will be Insects. The meeting will start with refreshments and fellowship at 9:30 a.m. in rooms 104 and 105. The Methodist Men will host a free community pancake breakfast, Feb. 2, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the fellowship hall. Everyone in the community is welcome to join in the fellowship while enjoying a menu of pancakes, sausage, eggs, fruit and breakfast drinks. A crafts table will be set up to accommodate young children before and after their meal. Visitors are always welcome to attend 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning worship. A special Children’s Church is also available during this time followed by 10:30 a.m. Sunday School. There are classes for different age groups and interests. The carillons are ringing once again throughout the surrounding area of St. Matthew’s after begin idle for some time. St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church is located at 4300 N. Shepherd Dr. at Crosstimbers. Please visit the web site at www.stmatthewsmethodist.org for information.

TALC to hold Spring Registration

Third Age Learning Center senior program will hold its 2013 Spring Semester Registration from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday Jan. 25. The registration will be held in the parish hall of All Saints Church, located at 215 E. 10th St. in the Heights. Classes begin Monday Feb. 4 and registration will continue the ﬁrst week of the semester. TALC offers a variety of activities for seniors 50+ in the community such as classes in computer, bridge, line dancing, hula, stain glass, scrapbooking, chair dancing exercise, quilting, lifelong learning continuing education, woodworking and much more. Each semester offers seminars, special monthly parties, birthday celebrations and day trips. Seniors can enjoy a full course hot lunch, cooked on-site Monday through Friday during the semester for a nominal fee of $3. Seniors previously registered with TALC will be receiving semester information in the mail after Jan. 15. For lunch reservations beginning in February or TALC program information, call 713-248-1277.

St. Stephen’s men’s ministry hosting Men’s Movie Night

All men in the community are welcome to join St. Stephen’s men’s ministry for Men’s Movie Night Friday, Jan. 25, at 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall. The featured film, “Courageous” (rated PG-13), depicts four law enforcement officers who struggle with faith and family issues while doing their best on the job. There is no admission charge, so bring sons, nephews and friends and come explore faith in action in today’s world. The Poston Prayer Shawl Ministry welcomes all who enjoy knitting and crocheting to join them in making shawls, caps, prayer patches and baby blankets. After items are completed, they are prayed over for a special blessing before being given to give comfort the sick and grieving. The group meets the first and third Thursday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 207. The Senior Adult Council will host “The Love Connection,” a senior adult celebration, on Saturday, Feb. 16, at 1 p.m. in the fellowship hall. The event will feature a catered lunch and musical entertainment by Glennie. Men and women of all ages are welcome to attend. Tickets are $15 per person and are available through the church office. St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church is located at 2003 W. 43rd St., between T. C. Jester Boulevard and Donna Bell. For information, call the office at 713-686-8241, or visit www.stsumc.org.

Heights Christian back to playing games again

Heights Christian Church will resume their light supper and popular game night at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 28, in the fellowship hall at 1703 Heights Blvd. at 18th Street. Bring a snack and game and join the fun with Christian friends. Call 713-861-0016 for information.

Zion Lutheran host chili supper and Mardi Gras event

Zion Lutheran Men in Mission have scheduled their annual chili supper from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, at Zion Lutheran Church, located at 3606 Beauchamp in the Heights. This is one of their annual fundraising events for their Seminary Student Scholarship Program. A “free will” offering will be accepted for the meal and there will be chili to got for $8 a quart. Over the years, they have given more than $35,000 to Seminary Students as scholarships. The community is welcome to attend. Come worship with us Mardi Gras style at 11 a.m. Feb. 10. An uplifting worship complete with jazz music and a gumbo lunch will be sure to leave your spirit and stomach full. Singer Barbara Tucker Johnson, and musicians Gary Mitchell and Jose Miguel Jamal will perform along with Zion’s choir and Scholarship Singers. For information, call the church ofﬁce at 713-869-1493.

12th Annual Trinity Jazz Festival features big names

The 12th Annual Trinity Jazz Festival, until Jan. 27, will feature jazz icon saxophonist Tom Scott and the Downbeat’s ﬁve-time Trombonist of the Year, Robin Eubanks. Set in the acoustically excellent sanctuary of the hisAd # 37415 toric Trinity Church, 1015 Holman at Main. The Sunday mass is free and open to the community.

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Fairbanks UMC hosts “Laugh Your Way To A Better Marriage

Laugh Your Way To A Better Marriage video seminar brings a positive hope to one’s marriage. It will help couples better understand each other’s needs and rekindle romance in the marriage. It appeals widely to husbands, even those who may typically resist marriage ministry. The seminar is a two day (three hours each day) seminar. Registration is $18 for each person ($36 per couple), both sessions included in the price. For information or to register, call 713-462-3206 or visit www.fairbanksumc.org. Early bird discount is available until Feb. 4. Fairbanks United Methodist Church is located at 14210 Aston St.

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Swierc-Bearden wed Miss Megan Renee Swierc became the bride of Clayton Tyler Bearden at a ceremony in Galveston. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Swierc of Houston, and bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Bearden of Vernon, Texas. Maid of Honor for the occasion was Morgan Swierc of Houston, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Joei Koehler of Knob Noster, Missouri; Allison Ullrich of Brooklyn, N.Y; Claire Ford of Pearland. John Graf of Plano served the groom as best man. Groomsmen were James Synowsky of Weatherford, Texas; Richard Pawlik of Houston; and Drew Schwartz of Vernon, brother-in-law of the bridegroom.

Following the ceremony, a reception and dance were held in the Music Hall of the historic Hotel Galvez overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. After a honeymoon to Antigua, the Beardens are making their home in Houston. The bride is a graduate of St. Pius X High School in Houston, received her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Texas A&M and a master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. She works in human resources for Target. The bridegroom is a graduate of Vernon High School and received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science degree and master’s degree from Texas A&M University. He works as a ﬁnancial advisor for LPL Financial in Hous-

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Church Guide

Sunday 10:30 am Worship and The Word Children’s Church Wednesday 7:30 pm Life Equip classes for all ages

4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227 Reverend John Cain, Pastor

Worship Services 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. (Nursery Provided) Sunday School & Bible Classes 9:15 a.m.

1624 W 34th • 713-686-7689

www.gethsemanelutheran.org

“The Heart of the Heights”

1245 Heights Blvd.

Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship10:45 AM Pastor Don Joseph Member of MANNA Visit us on FaceBook www.oakscchouston.org

Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m. Nursery Provided

Sunday School . . . . . . . 9:30 AM Sunday Worship . . . . . 10:45 AM Nursery Provided Reverend Hill Johnson, Pastor

713 862-8883

Member of MANNA

Oaks Presbyterian Church

Grace United Methodist Church

Food Pantry, Thurs. 2-4:30 PM www.graceintheheights.org

(Disciples of Christ)

1216 Bethlehem at Ella Blvd. (713) 688-7761

Preschool Program • Mon. - Fri. 9-2 p.m.

www.gospeltruthchurch.org

Ministering to the Oak Forest Community since 1948 Reverend Noelie Day

(713) 682-2556 1576 Chantilly @ Piney Woods

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MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

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GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Gospel Truth Church

Candlelight Church of Christ Join us for Services in English or Spanish Sunday Worship 10am & 5pm Sunday Bible Classes 9am Wednesday Bible Study 7pm

A GOOD CAMEL

faithful believer is like a good camel, getting down on bended knees and taking the heavy load without complaint. The camel is essentially a beast of burden, and a marvelously well-adapted one for the harsh desert environs of the Mideast and Northern Africa. We can learn a lot from the camel, whose legendary persistence under heavy loads in the harshest circumstances is a model of patient determination. The facts are perhaps more amazing than the legends. Camels can easily go three to four days without water and can carry a rider and load 80-120 miles each day. A camel can drink 30 gallons of water in 10 minutes, which is then rapidly distributed throughout their body. They are also able to extract water by eating plants, and their mouths are tough, allowing them to eat thorny desert shrubs. All in all, camels are excellent servants, and we could learn something from their hard work and faithful service, which is usually given without any ill humor.

“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Proverbs 14: 23

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713-864-1470

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Bible Study 9:30 am 3206 N. Shepherd

713-864-4447 � Website www.gobc.org JimBob Daniel Interim Pastor Pastor Dr. Overton

A House of Hope and Prayer in the Heart of Houston Rev. Herschel Moore, Pastor

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Page 8B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

OBITUARIES

Robert Neal Clampitt, 82, died Jan. 17. He was a longtime employee of Superior Derrick Service. He is survived by his wife, Frances; sons, David (Carol) Clampitt and Donald (Cindy) Clampitt along with six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Fabern I. Cossey, 81, of Houston, died Jan. 17. He was born Feb. 1, 1931, in Damascus, Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his father, Ernest Cossey and his brother Ferrell Cossey and survived by wife Lillian Cossey, mother Daisy Cossey, daughter Cindy Collins and husband Nick of Burleson, Texas, son Dale and wife Sonya, of Houston, and daughter Karen, also of Houston. Grandchildren Nicholas and Jennie of Burleson, and Courtney and Kirsten of Houston. He also leaves behind numerous relatives and friends who will miss him greatly. Fabern served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, and was a businessman for 40+ years in Houston.

Patsy Nell Little Ferguson, 68, died on Jan. 17. She was born to Millie Milus and Emma Jean Little in Henderson, Texas. She attended and graduated from Reagan High School in Houston. Patsy was employed by the Texaco Company for several years and attended and graduated with honors from Eastern Michigan University, in Ypsilanti, Michigan. She was employed by the Quanex Corporation until her retirement. She is survived by her husband Franklin Ferguson, sister Jane Harrigan (John), brothers Bobby Little, and Tom Little and his wife Sandy, sister-in laws Edith Little (Jimmy), Becky Little (Bill), Pat Little (Gene) and many nieces and nephews. Joe E. Garcia Sr., 72, died Jan. 20, at his home. He is survived by his son and daughther-in-law, and two daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren, two sisters, nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by many family and friends.

Rev. Robert Lee Jessie Jr., 58, died Dec. 25. He was a beloved husband of Charlotte; champion father of six children; champion grandfather of eleven grandchildren and two great grand children and a host of other relatives and friends. Frank Frederick LaBelle, 70, died Jan. 14. He was born in Houston, Nov. 5,

1942, to Frank Eugene LaBelle and Dorothy Grace LaBelle. He is preceded in death by his parents, his son Brian LaBelle and his sister Kathy Jones. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Joan LaBelle; son Scott (Christina) LaBelle; sister Diane Denton, Firestone, Co.; brothers Don (Laura) LaBelle Aurora, Co.; Ron (Jean) LaBelle, brother-in-laws, Tommy (Kim) Gunn, Pasadena, Texas; Terry Gunn, Onalaska, Texas; sister-in-laws, Kelly (Bubba) Nelson; Maryann Bunker; mother-in-law Mary Gunn Sims, Goodrich, Texas and many beloved nieces and nephews. There will be a Celebration of Frank’s life Feb. 2, at 11 a.m. at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church, 2003 W. 43rd St., Houston, Texas 77018. In Lieu of Flowers the family requests that donations be made to St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church.

Carl Johnston Lee Jr., 70, died Jan. 18. He had worked in construction for P. G.

Bell/Amistad Corp. and Tellepson Corp. Carl was a member of Hold ‘Em and Hit ‘Em Club, High Bidders, 12th Man Club, lifetime Director of Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and a founding member of Trail Riders Cook Team. He owned the Sundown Saloon. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Marie Lee and son, Jack Chambers. He is survived by his wife, Violet “Vi”; sons, Troy Lee, Todd (Tammy) Lee, Robert (Margaret) Chambers and Daniel Crow; daughters, Kimberly Read and Pamela Galipo; grandchildren, Brandon and Zachary Lee and Cody Chambers; brother, Joseph Lee and nephew, Joseph “Joel” Lee, Jr.

Alicia C. Lomas, 77, died Jan. 16. She was born Feb. 21, 1935, to Ysidro and Rosaria Cruz in San Benito, Texas. Alicia was preceded in death by two brothers and by her beloved husband, Raymond E. Lomas, and son, Raymond Lomas Jr. She is survived by children, Miguel, Linda, Enrique, David, Victor, and Sylvia; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many other family and friends.

THE CALENDAR. Oak Forest resident Russell J. Sanders’s novel “Thirteen Therapists” has just been released by Featherweight Press. The work of ﬁction is a young adult novel, for teens and those young at heart, that spins the tale of Chicago high school senior Aaron Hardaway. The publisher’s tag line for the book is “Senior Aaron Hardaway has a new bad boy lover and he wants his mother out of his hair — super therapist Thirteen warns eyes wide open, but will Aaron listen?” Sanders has been writing for many years, but this is his ﬁrst published work. Houstonians may know him as a local singer, actor, director, on-air volunteer at Sight into Sound radio, and teacher of theater, literature and writing at Aldine Senior High School. His experience as a teacher, he says, gave him much insight into how the teen mind works. That insight he poured into Thirteen Therapists. Sanders will be there to personally autograph copies of the book.

‘FISHING’ BY LEIGHZA WALKER PREMIERE Through Feb. 2 Obsidian Art Space 3522 White Oak 832-889-7837 www.obsidianartspace.org

Come see the play “Fishing” the ﬁrst full-length play written by Leighza Walker. Visit the website for ticket information.

OAKS DADS CLUB BBQ COOK OFF 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 25-26 713-449-8617, 713-302-7565 www.odcsports.com

The Oaks Dads Club will host a barbecue cookoﬀ to raise funds for the ODC Spring Baseball/Softball season. Plates will be $8, which includes two meats and sides. Gates will open at 8 a.m. and stay open until 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26. There will be live music by Bow & Arrow, activities for the kids, vendors and great food and fun. Admission is $3 for adults, kids 15 and under get in free. The cookoﬀ is open to teams entering in six#categories: Ad 31448 Beans, Brisket, Chef’s

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Rutha Mae Callies McCullough, 80, died Jan. 15. She was born Sept. 29, 1932. She was preceded in death by her husband Sammie Louis McCullough, and survived by her four daughters, Janice (Michael), Joyce, Lela Carol, and Monica, eight grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and a host of family and friends, all of whom will miss her dearly. Rutha was an educator, having taught over 30 years at Osborne Elementary School, a founding member of Palestine (Holy Trinity) Baptist Church, and a member of Mount Olive Baptist Church. She was a graduate of Carver High School and Prairie View A&M University.

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Joe Musemeche. She is survived by her children Rick Musemeche and wife Kay, Mary Spurlock, Bob Musemeche and wife Holly and Bill Musemeche and wife Sally; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and her beloved dog, Lucy.

Leo Rubenstein, 92, died Jan. 21. Leo was a native Houstonian, a graduate of San Jacinto High School and the University of Oklahoma. A WWII Navy veteran and a longtime, successful business owner, Leo excelled in athletics his entire life and especially enjoyed golf and fishing. Leo was predeceased by wives Florence Goodglick, Necia Brown-Campbell and Helen Pasternak; his daughter Diane Richardson and his sister Frances Jacobson. He is survived by his wife Phyllis Holland; his daughter Karen Odem and sons Larry and Monte Rubenstein as well as his five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank Idelia Delatorre and Irene Garza for their long-time service in taking care of Leo. Leo, for many years had been a volunteer at MD Anderson where he operated the “Jolly Trolley.” Hazel M. Schumacher, 90, died Jan. 16. She was born in Houston, Jan. 6, 1923. She attended Jeff Davis High School and University of Texas-Austin. Hazel married Robert Schumacher in 1946, moved to Minneapolis, and attended University of Minnesota while working for Honeywell. She represented Honeywell in TV news spots and demonstrated various Honeywell products at trade shows before she retired after 38 years with Honeywell as Manager of Employee Retirement Benefits and began substitute teaching at elementary schools. Hazel loved golf and took lessons with the pros at the Golf Academy in Madison, WI and won numerous trophies. In 1996, Hazel moved back to Houston, joined Second Baptist Church, participated in the church’s “Moving On” and “Clift Notes Bible Study” groups, and volunteered at Memorial Hermann Hospital-Memorial City where she logged over 1,000 volunteer hours. The family wishes to thank the loving caregivers at The Hampton at Spring Shadows and the ladies of Daughters and Eye Elder Care for helping Hazel in her final days. Hazel was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Bob; sister, Melba; and brother, Chris. She is survived by her sister, Myra. Dorothy E. Young Smith, 89, died Jan. 17. Dorothy was born in New Brighton, Pennsylvania Dec. 20, 1923, to Clara I. Dyke Young and Everett George Young. Dorothy is reunited with her beloved husband of 58 years, Richard A. “Dick” Smith; daughter, Sally Smith Headrick; parents and two sisters, Marian Maybray and Charlotte Ehrheart. She is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

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Choice, Chicken, Chili and Ribs. Please visit the website for information and entry form.

FLAMENCO POETS’ STORYTELLERS’ EVENT 8 p.m. Jan. 27 Casa Ramirez Folk Art Gallery 241 W. 19th St. www.theﬂamencopoetssociety. org or 713-520-9364

SCOUT SUPER BOWL BARBECUE Noon-6 p.m. Feb. 2; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 3 St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church 3600 Brinkman 713-444-2972 chriscarroll93@gmail.com

Solutions this issue’s classsi edonsection. Solutions toin today’s puzzles can be found Page 2B

BRUNO GROENING DOCUMENTARY 3 p.m. Feb. 27, April 28 Central Market Community Room 3815 Westheimer Road 713-386-1700

HOUSTON HEIGHTS MEET AND GREET 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 2 Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston 811 Yale St. 713-513-7811 www.msrh.org The Houston Heights Meet and Greet will be at the Miniature Schnauzer Rescue of Houston Feb. 2 and will meet monthly every ﬁrst Saturday. To register to adopt in advance please call or visit the website.

FAMILY DENTISTRY State-of-the art procedures, NEW PATIENT SPECIAL

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CLUES ACROSS 1. 1st Hall of Famer Ty 5. Coat with plaster 9. Reciprocal of a sine (abbr.) 12. Jai __, sport 13. Straight muscles 14. 10 = 1 dong 15. Peru’s capital 16. Of a main artery 17. Latin for hail 18. Give birth to a horse

19. Colors material 20. Triglyceride is one 22. Take a plane hostage 24. Margarines 25. A tributary of the Missouri River 26. Bring up children 27. 3rd tone of the scale 28. Light boat (French) 31. Relating to geometry 33. Cursed, obstinate

SUDOKU

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ACROSS Cont... 34. Aluminum 35. Sec. of State 1981-82 36. Barn towers 39. Bonito genus 40. Deep ravines 42. Spirit in “The Tempest” 43. Small restaurant 44. Bambi for example 46. Actor DeCaprio 47. Ambled or strolled 49. Cleanse with soap and water 50. Atomic mass unit 51. Var. of emir 52. Supplemented with difculty 53. Manuscripts (abbr.) 54. Frambesia 55. Auld lang __, good old days

The Bruno Groening Circle of Friends will present a documentary on the teachings and life of Bruno Groening, a celebrated healer of the early and mid 1900s.

Boy Scout Troop 40 will hold its 14th Annual Barbecue Dinner over Super Bowl weekend. The menu features barbecue chicken or barbecue beef and sausage, along with savory homemade buttered potatoes and seasoned green beans, condiments and a drink. Tickets are $10 in advance from any Troop 40 member and at the door. Whole briskets for $60 or a Super Bowl Party Pack (20-plate minimum) for $7 can be ordered. Adper # person 35524

HOUSTON JOB FAIR

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 7 Westin Galleria 5060 W. Alabama 954-678-1807 network.nshp.org/events/houstonjob-fair4

The National Society for Hispanic Professionals will be hosting the event to link employers seeking diversity in bilingual, professional candidates. Applicants should bring resumes and dress to impress as employers will be hosting on-site interviews.

Baltazar Canales, Ted Pﬁster and Ben Lind will be featured in “The Tapestry of Our Lives,” a free event supported by Poets & Writer’s, Inc.

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Betty Jean Vera, 75, died Jan. 19. She was born March 30, 1937, to Joe and Dorothy Clark in Trickham, Texas. Betty was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, and by her beloved husband, Santiago Vera. She is survived by children, Betisa Bonneau, Mary Ann Lopez and husband, Bobby, and James Vera and wife, Jenny; grandchildren, Alexander and Arielle Bonneau, Joseph, Matthew, and Caroline Lopez, and Catherine and Sophia Vera; sister, Mary Lou Early; brothers, Luther Joe Clark and Ad # 29672 Raymond Earl Clark, other family, and friends.

Louise Musemeche, 88, died Jan. 17. She is preceded in death by her husband

James E. Hardy III, 60, died Jan. 15. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Donna D. Hardy; children Cara Lynn Schultz and husband Jonathan; Lara Leigh Johnson and husband Brandon; granddaughter Elizabeth Paige Schultz and one on the way; sister Linda Brossette and husband Jack and nephew Pat Brossette and wife Lori. James had a passion for sailing, loved to travel and enjoyed music. He especially loved spending time with his family and friends.

OAK FOREST AUTHOR LAUNCHES ‘THIRTEEN THERAPISTS’ 3-5 p.m. Feb. 9 River Oaks Book Store 3270 Westheimer Rd.

Mary Ann Strain McCullough, 77, of Independent Heights in northwest Houston, died Jan. 11, at Memorial Hermann Hospital. She was born Jan. 28, 1935, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to Boyd and Eva Strain. She was a graduate of William Penn High School, Class of 1953. Most of Mary Ann’s life was lived in Philadelphia, and over the years she was employed at Sears, Roebuck & Co., Wallace Leisure Products Co. and the Philadelphia International Airport. In 2006, she relocated to Houston to be close to her son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter. She leaves to cherish her memory her son, James W. (Jim) Newkirk and wife Earnestine; her granddaughter, Janelle E. Newkirk; a sister, Sheila Strain Bell and husband Edwin of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; three brothers, Boyd P. Strain Jr. of Harrisburg, Jon B. Strain and wife Melonita of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and William Strain and wife Leandra of Dresher, Pennsylvania.

CLUES DOWN 1. A young cow 2. Collection of miscellaneous pieces 3. Mali capital 4. Onion rolls 5. “10” actress Bo 6. Performs in a play 7. Iguana genus 8. Fox’s Factor host 9. French hat 10. One who rescues 11. Female students 13. Rolls-__, luxury car 16. Slow tempos 21. Relating to the ileum 23. Irish autist 28. Sleeping place 29. Indicates position 30. Prepared for competition 31. One who shows the way 32. Of I 33. Decayed teeth 35. Seraglios 36. More free from danger 37. Great amounts 38. Surreptitious 39. Arabian greeting 40. Angel food and carrot 41. # of ancient wonders 43. Ball of thread or yarn 45. To interpret: explain 48. Doctors’ group

Page 9B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

Rams vying for playoff spot

Sports

Calendar Jan. 26

BOYS BASKETBALL

Scarborough at Yates, 10 a.m. (Butler) Lee at Waltrip, 1 p.m. (Delmar-Tusa)

by Michael Sudhalter sports@theleadernews.com

BOYS SOCCER

Scarborough vs. Waller at Brenham, 3 p.m.

BOYS SOCCER

Jan. 28

Northland Christian at St. Thomas, 7 p.m.

Jan. 29

BOYS BASKETBALL

Lutheran North at Katy Pope John XXIII, 7 p.m. St. Thomas at Houston Christian, 7:30 p.m.

GIRLS BASKETBALL Reagan at Austin, 4:30 p.m. (Barnett) Waltrip at North Forest, 5 p.m. Lutheran North at Katy Pope John XXIII, 5:30 p.m. St. Pius X at St. Agnes, 7:30 p.m. Scarborough at Worthing, 7:30 p.m. (Butler)

BOYS SOCCER Worthing at Scarborough, 4:30 p.m. (Delmar-Tusa)

GIRLS SOCCER Kinkaid at St. Pius X, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 30

BOYS BASKETBALL

Sterling at Scarborough, 4:30 p.m. (Delmar-Tusa) Reagan at Milby, 7:30 p.m. (Barnett)

GIRLS SOCCER Reagan at Waltrip, 4:30 p.m. (Delmar-Tusa)

GIRLS SOCCER

Jan. 31

St. Pius X at St. Agnes, 4:30 p.m.

WRESTLING Reagan at Class 4A-District 21 Tournament, all day

Feb. 1

BOYS BASKETBALL

Tomball Concordia Lutheran at St. Thomas, 7:30 p.m. St. Pius X at Beaumont Kelly, 7:30 p.m. Lutheran North at Westbury Christian, 7:30 p.m.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Lauren Hand is the top swimmer for the St. Pius X girls swim team. (Submitted photo)

SPX swimmers race toward regionals by Michael Sudhalter sports@theleadernews.com The St. Pius X swim team has done a good job preparing for the most important meets of the season. The Panthers will compete in the TAPPS Central Region Meet on Jan. 30 in San Antonio, with plans of qualifying for state on Feb. 15-16, also in the Alamo City. “From Thanksgiving all the way through Jan. 1 is a very tough time of year for us,” SPX head coach Richard Butler said.“We get hit from every angle with events which take us out of the water. From school midterms, to Thanksgiving, and then Byron Barthelemy is a returning state qualifier for the St. Pius X boys swim to Christmas holidays. Wow, what a team. (Submitted photo) challenge to get quality water time in.” swimmers to put together a strong Ricky Castillo, a junior who has the The Panthers have a young team, relay team will be important now at talent to qualify for state. but they’re determined to succeed crunch time,” Butler said. “Ricky put up some impressive at the state meet. Aubrey Mushinski and Gabby numbers when he was in Junior “It takes a lot of hard work to be Perez lead SPX in the butterfly, High swimming summer leagues, successful at State in San Antonio,” while Emily Bingham, Dominique but has not swam at the high school Butler said. “Over the years, TAPPS Hernandez and Madison Taylor level since then,” SPX assistant private school swimming has be- compete in the breaststroke. coach Allen Brehm said. come very competitive. It certainly Two newcomers have been valuFreshman Phillip Salinas is a isn’t as deep in talent as the public able members of the team – senior member of the USA Swimming schools are, but the top swimmers Alex Mackzum and freshman Eliz- program and is expected to be a can compete at any level.” abeth Hopman. key leader for the Panthers in the Lauren Hand is the Panthers’ top On the boys side, Garrett Ber- future. girls swimmer, and she has a good goon and Byron Barthelemy qualiJunior Jacob Perez and freshman chance to earn a medal at state. fied for the state meet last season. Matt Goodrum are competing for a “The improvement of additional Butler’s impressed with newcomer spot on the relay team.

There’s nothing wrong with planning for next year

Furr at Scarborough, 4 p.m. (DelmarTusa) by Michael Sudhalter St. Pius X at Duchesne, 4:30 p.m. sports@theleadernews.com Lutheran North at Westbury ChrisIt’s never easy building a protian, 5:30 p.m. gram from the ground up, espeLee at Reagan, 5:30 p.m. (Delmarcially when the result on the scoreTusa) Waltrip at Wheatley, 6 p.m. (Barnett) board isn’t very kind.

BOYS SOCCER Scarborough at Wheatley, 4:30 p.m. Tomball Concordia Lutheran at St. Thomas, 7 p.m.

GIRLS SOCCER Reagan at Lee, 5 p.m. (Delmar-Tusa)

Feb. 2

BOYS BASKETBALL

Jones at Scarborough, 11:30 a.m. (Delmar-Tusa) Sharpstown at Reagan, 1 p.m. (Delmar-Tusa) Waltrip at Davis, 2:30 p.m. (DelmarTusa)

SWIMMING Reagan, Waltrip at Class 4A-District 21 Meet at Lamar, all day

It’s been an up and down season for the Waltrip High boys basketball team, but the Rams are determined to return to the postseason this winter. “That’s big for me,” Waltrip senior center Branden Ardoin said. “It could be my last go-round, and I want to make it something to remember. Class 4A-District 21 is one of the toughest districts in HISD and all of Greater Houston.” Ardoin is considering playing college basketball at Grandview University, an NAIA school in Iowa. The Rams, who finished the week at 12-12, 5-4, missed the postseason last season after five consecutive appearances. They defeated a Milby team that was ahead of them in the district standings, 49-46, on Jan. 15 – using tough defense and clutch free throw shooting but lost to Sharpstown, 62-57, three days later. The top four teams in the district will qualify for the postseason. Wheatley has established itself Waltrip High head boys basketball as the top team, with coach Dan Kelly has directed the Rams North Forest and Reafor the past decade. (Photo by Kevin gan not far behind. Long/GulfCoastShots.com) It’s likely that Waltrip, Sharpstown and Milby will compete for the final playoff spot. The Rams will host Lee at 1 p.m. Saturday at Delmar-Tusa Fieldhouse. Waltrip head coach Dan Kelly, a former Rice University and North Dakota State assistant coach, is one of the longest tenured head coaches in the area with a decade of experience with the Rams. He said the team “plays within ourselves” and does a good job of executing the halfcourt game, a strategy of working the ball inside to Ardoin and getting quick stops on defense. Ardoin and senior small forward Trey Frasier were members of the Rams’ varsity squad two years ago that qualified for the playoffs. “I’m just trying to lead the team as a senior and set an example to all of the other teammates,” said Frasier, who will attend the University of Houston but won’t play collegiate basketball in the fall. Jimmy Mouton, a member of WHS’s football team and Samuel Fuente, round out the senior class for the Rams. All of the Rams players live in the Waltrip attendance area, including sophomore point guard John Coakley, who represents the future of the program. “We’re starting to believe in each other,” Coakley said. “We’re moving the ball, but we have to continue to grind, play solid defense. I think we have really good chemistry. We really keep our composure. we pass it around and stall the time.”

But the Scarborough High girls basketball team is determined to set a foundation for the future. They’re not going to be sidetracked by some of the tough times along the way. “They have a lot of spirit, they’re always pumped up and a joy to be around,” Lady Spartans ﬁrst-year head coach Reagan Cabeen said. Cabeen, a former Cypress Ridge volleyball and basketball player, began rebuilding the SHS volleyball team this fall and is now focused on the basketball team. Scarborough has just one victory this season – when Jones didn’t show up to a Houston ISD Tournament Game, but they lost Class 3ADistrict 23 games to Jones and Furr by 3 and 6 points, respectively. “It’s like night and day since the beginning of the season,” Cabeen

said. “People come up to us, and they can definitely see the team’s improvement. I’m super proud of them. A (win on the court) would be so exciting. The girls have worked hard.” Scarborough faced Jones on Jan. 25; results were not available at press time. They’ll face Furr at 4 p.m. Feb. 1 at Delmar-Tusa Fieldhouse. “(In future seasons), we’ll be someone to watch,” Cabeen said. “The girls are really good at overcoming adversity.” Senior L’Eriqua Jackson, one of the key players on the volleyball team that nearly qualified for the postseason, is enjoying her first season of basketball. “We have school spirit and want to set the standard for the underclassmen,” said Jackson, who has accepted a partial academic scholarship to Hampton University and is considering playing volleyball at the Virginia-based school. “We’re learning the fundamentals of basketball.” The Lady Spartans lost to Kash-

Notebook: SPX looking to bounce back from tough start to season St. Pius X head boys basketball coach Henry Sims isn’t deterred by the Panthers’ 0-2 start in district competition. “I feel like we can bounce back -- both of those games were away,” Sims said. “Once you get home, things are a little bit diﬀerent.” The Panthers dropped a 61-51, triple overtime thriller to archrival, St. Thomas, on Jan. 19 at STH. The teams will meet again in the second-to-last district game on Feb. 9 at SPX. “The district is going to be wide open,” Sims said. “It’s going to come down to the last game of the season.” The game got heated for a couple of moments before halftime when players and fans in the student section started shouting at each other. There were no ejections, and personnel from both schools moved quickly to keep the situation from escalating.

Class 4A-District 21 soccer begins

The Waltrip High girls soccer team will host Class 4ADistrict 21 powerhouse, Reagan, at 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 30 at Delmar-Tusa Stadium to kick oﬀ district competition. The game marks the district-head coaching debut for Waltrip’s Adam Ramirez, a WHS graduate who also coaches the oﬀensive line for the Rams’ football team.

mere, one of the top teams in the district, 74-16 on Jan. 16, but the ﬁnal score didn’t deter Scarborough’s team spirit. “It’s tough when you don’t give it your all, but we always do, so we come out with our heads held high,” said Jackson, who also plays soccer and softball for SHS. Senior Diamond Davis, who will attend Prairie View A&M in the fall and is considering playing college sports, said the Lady Spartans are “raising the standard.” “Teams see us differently than they did last year,” said Davis, who also competes in track and plays volleyball. “We’re getting faster, Scarborough High senior girls basketball players L’Eriqua Jackson, left, and stronger.” Diamond Davis. (Photo by Michael Sudhalter)

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Swimming Postseason begins

The Reagan and Waltrip swim teams will compete in the 4A-21 District Swimming Championships on Feb. 2 at Lamar High School. The top swimmers will advance to the Conference 4ARegion VI Swim Meet at the Don Cook Natatorium in Sugar Land. – Michael Sudhalter

For questions, please email us at oaksdadsclub@gmail.com

Page 10B • The Leader • January 26, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

Stronger energy standards take effect Houston City Council has passed stronger energy efficiency standards for new homes construction. Starting Feb. 1, new residential properties will have to achieve 10 percent greater efficiency than the minimum required by the state of Texas. This fulfills part two of a commitment made by the Houston City Council a year ago to achieve a 15 percent stronger standard over three years The final 5 percent will go to a vote at the end of the year. “Once again Houston is leading the state towards a cleaner energy future,” said Luke Metzger, director of Environment Texas. “Buildings consume 40 percent of our energy, and much of that energy is literally flying out the window rather than heating or cooling our homes and businesses. What’s worse, energy-

wasting buildings are responsible for nearly half of our nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Better insulation, windows and appliances not only save consumers money and make homes more comfortable, they also play a critical role in protecting our environment.” The Houston region is projected to gain 3.5 million people and more Metzger than 500,000 homes by 2030. “These could last over 70 years,” Metzger said.

“By building these homes to be as energy-efficient as possible, Houstonians can worry less about keeping the lights on and secure a cleaner future.” According to a 2011 Environment Texas Research & Policy Center report, America’s Emerging Clean Energy Capital: How Houston Can Lead the Nation to a New Energy Future, found improvements in energy efficiency in homes could save an amount of energy equivalent to 7.8 percent of Houston’s current demand. The State Energy Conservation Office is currently considering adoption of new efficiency standards across the state. Environment Texas is a statewide, citizen-funded advocate for clean air, clean water, and open spaces. For more information, visit http://www.environmenttexas. org .

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Despite her project planning and budgeting, Warner encountered the kinds of challenges many

2012 Annual Market Comparison

The Houston housing market concluded calendar year 2012 with strong gains in sales volume and pricing versus 2011. The heaviest one-month sales volume of the year was recorded in August, with 6,447 closings. By contrast, the lightest one-month sales volume of the year took place in January, with 3,039 closings. October marked the greatest year-over-year percentage sales increase, with a 30.3 percent gain over October 2011. Single-family home sales rose

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Warner says the project illustrates the importance of asking “When do you stop doing something?” The answer depends on viewpoint. Are the added ameni�� ties to be enjoyed personally or are �� they eating up potential profit? �� One takeaway from the redo was the importance of using quality �� paint – and keeping a log of paint �� formulas for any touch ups down �� the line, she says. � � �� Her advice to would-be houseflippers, meanwhile, is “don’t dawdle” on the project, and factor Mildred Holeman Realty Will Donate in the closing costs and fees of selling the home when it’s done. Also, 10% of All Proceeds From Any Sale, Purchase, if appropriate, consider living on the premises during reconstrucor Lease to a Charity of Client’s Choice tion so you’re not double-dipping living expenses. MILDRED HOLEMAN REALTY That said, however, Warner is The Office with a Heart looking at the home’s Mamie pink bathroom tile, a rare vestige of the �� original finishes, and thinking it �� Ad# C might be time for Round 2. ��

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One of the surprisingly tough tasks during the home renovation was airing out the outside of the home in Ella Lee Forest. (Submitted Photo) before her have on such projects. Once in the game, however, she found she “kept going and going, thinking, ‘we did this we might as well do that’.” Tearing out the old kitchen cabinets, for example, beget replacing the ceiling in several connecting

rooms, which opened access to the attic, which beget replacing 50year-old insulation and ductwork. But only after vacuuming the exposed space, she says, a nasty job. “Needless to say we have a very clean attic,” she says, and, “The house doesn’t smell old.”

16.1 percent for the year and sales of all property types experienced a comparable increase of 16.3 percent. On a year-to-date basis, the average price climbed 5.4 percent to $225,330 while the median price increased 6.1 percent to $164,500. Total dollar volume for full-year 2012 jumped 23.3 percent to $16 billion compared to full-year 2011.

Single-Family Homes Update

Sales • from Page 1B “2012 was a phenomenal year for the Houston housing market, thanks to the addition of more than 85,000 new jobs locally as well as continued low interest rates,” said HAR Chairman Danny Frank with Prudential Anderson Properties. “Market conditions have created excellent opportunities to sell a home in many parts of town, with some sellers receiving multiple offers. With less than four months of inventory on the market and continued demand, we could see further pressure on pricing until inventory levels pick up.” The single-family home average price jumped 11.3 percent year-over-year to $243,797 while the median price—the ﬁgure at which half of the homes sold for more and half sold for less—rose 7.8 percent to $172,500. Both ﬁgures represent historic highs for Houston. Sales of foreclosure properties continue to diminish, falling 24.0 percent compared to December 2011, according to the HAR Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Foreclosures currently make up 14.2 percent of all property sales reported through the MLS, half the share they comprised at the beginning of 2012. The median price of December foreclosures edged up 2.1 percent to $84,200. December sales of all property types in Houston totaled 6,055, a 12.5 percent increase over the same month last year. Total dollar volume for properties sold in December soared 25.9 percent to $1.4 billion versus $1.1 billion a year earlier.

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Do Over • from Page 1B have replaced the brick exterior’s original wrought iron accents. Interior work, meanwhile, included combining the former living and dining rooms at the front of the house and opening access between the den and all-new kitchen. Bricks that once covered an interior wall became pathways outside. As work unfolded, Warner and crew encountered extra rafters in the roof and discovered a sweet note of fatherly advice tucked between wall studs. Seasoned by her previous doover projects, Warner was more resigned-to than surprised-by any of the hiccups. Getting the hardwood ﬂoors to ﬁt properly, for example, took several tries and, ultimately, a different vendor.

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December Monthly Market Comparison

December was kind to Houston’s overall real estate market, with positive results across all sales categories compared to December 2011. On a year-over-year basis, total property sales, total dollar volume and average and median pricing were all up. Month-end pending sales for December totaled 3,087. That is up 6.2 percent from last year and suggests continued gains are likely when January property sales data are totaled. Active listings, or the number of available properties, at the end of December declined 20.3 percent from December 2011 to 33,554. Housing inventory in Houston has now fallen below a four-month supply, dropping in December to 3.7 months from 5.8 months a year earlier. That is the lowest level recorded locally since December 1999. Inventory of 6.0 months is typically regarded as constituting a balanced real estate market. For perspective, the national inventory of single-family homes is 4.8 months, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

Lease Property Update

December demand was mixed for Houston’s lease property market. Rentals of single-family homes rose 3.1 percent compared to December 2011, while year-over-year townhouse/condominium rentals fell 2.4 percent. The average rent among single-family lease homes increased 3.8 percent year-overyear to $1,552 per month, but is down from the record levels reached over the summer. The December average rent for a townhouse/condominium was ﬂat year-over-year at $1,316 per month.

December sales of single-family homes in Houston totaled 5,039, up 11.4 percent from December 2011. That marks the 19th consecutive monthly increase. The average price of a singlefamily home rose 11.3 percent from last year to $243,797, the highest level ever in Houston. At $172,500, the median sales price for singlefamily homes also achieved an historic high, up 7.8 percent yearover-year. HAR also breaks out the sales performance of existing singlefamily homes throughout the Houston market. In December 2012, existing home sales totaled 4,168, a 14.6 percent increase from the same month last year. The average sales price rose 11.0 percent year-over-year to $225,318. The median sales price increased 7.6 percent to $155,000.

Houston Real Estate Milestones in December

• Single-family home sales increased 11.4 percent year-over-year, accounting for the market’s 19th consecutive monthly increase; • Total dollar volume jumped 25.9 percent, increasing from $1.1 billion to $1.4 billion on a yearover-year basis; • At $243,797, the single-family home average price reached the highest level ever in Houston; • At $172,500, the single-family home median price also reached an historic high in Houston; • 3.7 months inventory of singlefamily homes is the lowest level in 14 years (December 1999) and is lower than the national average of 4.8 months; • Sales of townhouses/condominiums rose 20.7 percent yearover-year; • Single-family home rentals rose 3.1 percent compared to December 2011.

Townhouse/Condominium Update

December sales of townhouses and condominiums leapt 20.7 percent from one year earlier. A total of 461 units sold last month versus 382 properties in December 2011. The average price increased 10.6 percent to $194,080 while the median price jumped 19.2 percent to $158,200. Months inventory plunged 38.0 percent year-overyear to 4.2 months compared to 6.8 months in December 2011.

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