Leader0315a by The Heights Leader, Fort Bend Star and The Greensheet

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Inside Today: Delicious dishes, recipes and more • 1B

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s ’ e n e l r a D

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Covering the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest & the neighborhoods of North Houston

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Saturday, March 15, 2014 • Vol. 60 • No. 19

ABOUT US 3500 East T.C. Jester Blvd. Suite A (713) 686-8494 news@theleadernews.com www.theleadernews.com Facebook/THE LEADER.

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Waltrip High announces future plans By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

Although there is no ignoring what came before — including a contractor switch as a result of sub-par work on the 2007 bond projects for Waltrip High School — the mood was positive at Tuesday’s community meeting, held in the Waltrip cafeteria. When Principal Andria Schur jokingly asked who was ready to see the ubiquitous orange panels removed, she got a full show of hands. The architecture ﬁrm on the Waltrip project is Gensler and Design Direc-

The

Kimberly Hickson was one of the Gensler employees on hand to talk to attendees. (Photo by Betsy Denson)

tor Nina Murrell showed the audience Waltrip reimagined as a 21st century school with an overall design in which form matched function. Part of the inspiration for the new schematics came from a trip that Schur, Band Director Jesse Espinosa, CTE and Engineering teacher Stephanie Witherspoon, and Special Education teacher Mike Evans, took to Seattle to look a number of schools with a forward thinking design. “It was very eye opening,” said Witherspoon. “We got to see the things that

Residents get some water pressure answers

See WALTRIP, P. 3A

Wobble Solved

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Inconsistent Water pressure has been an ongoing issue in Timbergrove/Lazybrook

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832.419.9969

By Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

Tailgate Safety

Pickup truck owners are encouraged to lock their tailgate, if possible. The Harris County Precinct One Constable’s oﬃce was patrolling the 3800 block of Suffolk in the Woodland Heights on Monday when a resident reported that the rear tailgate of his 2008 Ford pickup truck was missing. The victim said an unknown person entered his property without permission and committed the theft overnight. There’s no suspect information or description at this time. J.C. Mosier of the Constable’s Oﬃce said tailgate thefts aren’t as common as they were a few years ago.

�� Christian’s Tailgate owner Steve Christian took his invention, the “Table Jack” to an audition for the popular television show, “Shark Tank.” (Photo by Michael Sudhalter)

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Restaurant owner invents a solution for the Table Wobble By Michael Sudhalter

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North Houston native Steve Christian, owner of Christian’s Tailgate at 7340 Washington Ave., has seen and experienced a lot during 18 years in the restaurant business. “The #1 complaint in restaurants is wobbling tables,” Christian said. “It’s an experience to eat dinner. And (a wobbly table) ruins your experience.” To rectify that problem, Christian invented the “Table Jack” which he says is the most advanced way to stabilize restaurant tables. It uses a single table jack unit to stop the wobble with a simple press of the foot. Christian, 55, has had the Table Jack implemented in several restaurants throughout Houston, most notably the Landry’s chain. After eight years of waiting, he ﬁnally received a patent for it three months ago.

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Classiﬁeds

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1B 7A

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Public Information Puzzles Sports

2A 5A 7B

See PRESSURE, P. 3A

Shady Acres concerned about expansion of W. 20th By Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

THE INDEX.

Christian has focused so much time and resources on the Table Jack that he sold the White Oak and Midtown locations of his restaurants. Now, he hopes to get the Table Jack out to a national, or perhaps, international market. That’s why he traveled to Austin last week to audition for “The Shark Tank,” a reality show on ABC where inventors and entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to a panel of wealthy investors such as Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. If the panel likes the pitch, they choose to invest in the company. Christian said producers at the audition said he’d receive a phone call in a week or so, if he’s selected in the process. One of Christian’s other inventions is an ice bucket that is environmentally conscious and cost effective. Currently, the ice in beer buckets must be disposed, causing bar owners to spend a lot more money on ice. The patent on that invention is pending. Christian, a third generation restaurant owner, has several other restaurant-related inventions, but he’s still working on getting patents for those. He plans on traveling to a restaurant convention next month in Las Vegas to pitch some of his inventions to restaurant owners.

The water pressure and odor control issues in Timbergrove and Lazybrook aren’t solved, but residents who attended a Timbergrove Manor Civic Club (TMCC) general meeting found out that the situation is improving. TMCC welcomed Michael Neese, the City of Houston’s Assistant Director of Water Operations, and Jason Iken, the city’s Senior Assistant Director for Wastewater Operations to its meeting on Tuesday night at Sinclair Elementary School. Neese addressed recent water pressure problems, while Iken spoke about the plans to address odor control from the city’s Chemical Feed Station at 11th St. and Bryce. Neese explained the complicated process of drinking water distribution throughout the city, and how water flow from one area affects another. He said a city valve that was opened in the Katy-Addicks area on Feb. 27 improved average water pressure in Timbergrove/Lazybrook from 40 psi to 50 psi. The state minimum is 35 psi. But water pressure has fluctuated, depending on how much water residents not limited to the Timbergrove/Lazybrook area are using at a given time. “I can’t turn something on and fix it,” Neese said. “I have to look at patterns and things we find. It’s not easy. There’s not going to be a quick fix.” Still, Neese addressed some solutions that would further improve water pressure. He said a $78,000 emergency purchase has been made for the Northeast Water Plant, which will improve psi by 2-to-3 points in a few months. The long term solution is a $26 million expansion of the Northeast Plant, which is projected by 2020. “That will free up East Plant water that goes north, keep it closer to areas (like Timbergrove/Lazybrook),”

The City of Houston is considering expanding W. 20th St. as part of its Rebuild Houston effort, but residents of Shady Acres are concerned about the potential project. Shady Acres Civic Club president Nancy Wilcox raised the issue during the city’s District C Capital Improvement Project on March 5. “When the weather is nice, you’ll see people walking and riding their bikes,” Wilcox said. “Folks are not going to feel safe doing that, and that would be a shame.” Amar Mohite, administration

manager for the City’s Transportation Planning department, said the neighborhood’s needs were taken into consideration in a recent mobility. study. “Based on this study, we will make a draft recommendation that 20th Street be designated as a four lane Urban Avenue with Bike Facility, High Frequency Transit, and Pedestrian consideration” Mohite said. W. 20th St. has been classiﬁed as a major thoroughfare since 1942, but its classiﬁcation was changed to a 4-lane major thoroughfare, from N. See Projects, P. 3A 20th Street is considered for lane expansion. (Photo by Jake Dukate)

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THE PUBLIC. Saturday, March 15, 2014 • Page 2A

Pham charged with aggravated assault with car The Houston Police Department arrested Kim Pham and charged her with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon at 1:55 p.m. on March 2 in the 300 block of W. 17th St. Pham, 25, drove her vehicle at a high speed down an alley and allegedly almost hit several Pham children. She crashed her car into a garage. She was initially taken to Ben Taub Hospital’s Neuropsychological Center before being transported to the Harris County Jail. Pham was not believed to be under the inﬂuence of alcohol or

drugs.

Road rage on N. Shepherd

A 41-year-old male was driving a GMC vehicle down the street at 12:30 a.m. on March 2 in the 1100 block of N. Shepherd when a black GMC pickup truck began driving erratically and honking at the victim. When the two vehicles were stopped at a light, the suspect got out of his vehicle, walked up to the victim’s vehicle and punched him in the face. The victim got out of his vehicle and fell. The suspect returned to his vehicle and drove oﬀ, scraping the victim as he drove by him. The victim suﬀered scrapes and bruises but refused medical treatment at the scene.

Aggravated assault charge

Frank Luis Ramos was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon at 6:30 p.m. on March 4 in the 2400 block of Hackett Dr. Ramos, 28, allegedly threatened his roommates with a knife and allegedly threatened suicide. He was booked directly into the Harris County Jail.

Robbery on Yale

A 46-year-old male victim told police he was punched in the face multiple times by an unknown suspect at 2:15 a.m. March 2 in the 4400 block of Yale. The victim said the unknown suspect stole his cell phone. The

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Parents and students learn about new state requirements High school is changing in a big way for next year’s ninthgrade students, and dozens of HISD families got a jump on ﬁnding out how at two community meetings Monday night at Reagan and Washington high schools. The changes are coming as a result of state legislation known as House Bill 5 — and HISD has rebranded the process for its students and their families as “Plan Your Path.” “Plan Your Path” is all about guiding students to “dream big,” explained Alejandro Morua, HISD’s general manager of Family and Community Engagement, by combining career awareness and selection with a rigorous academic curriculum from pre-K through graduation. “I wish this had been in-

vented years ago,” said Adrian Hernandez, who was there with wife Isabella and daughter Sophia, an eighth-grader at Hamilton MS who plans to attend Waltrip. “When you start early thinking about college and jobs, it helps you get to the next level.” Families were introduced to new concepts that will customize each student’s high school experience including: • Personal graduation plans that begin with a rigorous 26credit Distinguished Level of Achievement (including Algebra II) mandated by HISD; • Endorsements — required course pathways with a career focus that reﬂect a student’s interests and goals beyond high school; • Performance acknowledgments — how students can

“supersize” their diplomas with achievements, such as mastery of a second language. • Automatic admission to Texas state colleges and universities. Isabella Hernandez was pleased to be part of her daughter’s goal-setting and planning. “This meeting was a great opportunity for both parents and children to learn the steps we’ll take together,” she said. “We know we want her to go to college, and this helps us understand how to get her there.” -Courtesy of HISD

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Parent Conﬁdential

WALTRIP, from P. 1A

Discovery Green offers spring break programs Spring Break is a great time for parents, students and teachers to relax and re-charge their batteries for the final weeks of the spring semester. While some folks go out of town, Discovery Green in downtown Houston is giving families a local (and free option) for a funfilled time. Spring Break fun at Discovery Green includes foam parties, water balls, rock walls, quad jumpers, HGO Storybook To Go!, Fairytale Blasts, Bilingual Opera Cat, fairytale fun with Princess Sofia the First and Mike the Knight. Enjoy fun Sports Day activities and giveaways with street teams from the Houston Texans, Houston Astros and Houston Rockets, plus cheerleader signings from Houston Texans cheerleaders. For more information, log on to www.discoverygreen.com for the daily schedule.

Enjoying Retirement

Bike Tours Bayou City Bike Tours is a Heights based business owned and operated by three local post 9/11 veterans. Bayou City Bike Tours was started to create an experience where cyclists could take in the city from a different perspective and have some fun along the way. It offers a tour that goes through downtown Houston and a Heights Historic Tour that goes through all of the landmarks of the Heights. For more information, call 832387-5631

Projects, from P. 1A Main to 18th St., in 1995. Mohite said citizens will get a chance to share their input at the Heights-Northside Mobility Planning meeting from 6-8 p.m. at the Moody Park Community Center, 3725 Fulton. Public comments will continue through May 2. “We will review these comments and update the recommendation once the public comment period is closed,” Mohite said. “After the study is ﬁnalized, the city would take these recommendations into future consideration to evaluate if any changes are necessary to amend the city’s major Thoroughfare and Freeway

were working and those that weren’t.” Back on campus, a team of 12 people, including parents, teachers and students, were assembled to take part in a Design Charrette, an intense workshop where team members collaborate to flesh out the specifics of design. As a result of feedback, Murrell said that there were four main goals with the new look of the school. First, Waltrip must have a nice facade with a grand boulevard entry. The expansion of academic facilities was also a must, as well as an expansion of both the performing arts and athletic areas. One of the most exciting renderings was that of the monumental staircase near the administrative offices which will have an open air

feel and allow those at the top to see down multiple levels. Other items of interest were the cafe and the extended learning areas where the glass rooms continue the open feel. A Corporate Resource Center will give Career and Technical Education (CTE) students a place to meet with those in the business community. The dividing wall in the cafeteria will be removed and the kitchen enlarged. A covered outdoor seating area will give students a chance to enjoy nice weather. Waltrip’s South Gym will be expanded so that multiple sports teams can utilize it simultaneously. A weight room will be added and the locker rooms reconﬁgured. Public access to the pool will also be provided.

PRESSURE, from P. 1A Plant, which is projected by 2020. “That will free up the East Plant water that goes north, and keep it closer to areas (like Timbergrove/Lazybrook),” Neese said. Neese said other neighborhoods have water pressure problems, but “not as severe” as some of Timbergrove/Lazybrook. However, he said the 47 water pressure complaints made to the city’s 311 line is on par with the rest of the city. Neese has communicated with some Timbergrove/ Lazybrook residents on a regular basis and said the city has installed three pressure recorders in neighborhoods and plans on installing more. Those give

The athletics and perform- to do as much as we can, as pleted in the short term as ing arts departments will fast as we can,” said Marshall. electrical power upgrades, share a new large lobby with “We understand this type of the restoration of outside air units and classroom heating work, this type of project.” concessions. No one is more interested and ventilation work. Hoyt Murrell said that the process was at the end of the in seeing the new and im- said there would be a synergy schematic design phase and proved Waltrip than Steve between the architects and would now move into design Hoyt, senior manager for Fa- the contractor. “We’re not going to do development, which involves cility Services at HISD who decisions about paint, fur- oversees the design and con- work and then have to tear it niture and finishings. Then struction of school facilities out,” he said. “It’s going to be done right.” construction items would be under the bond program. prioritized and plotted out beHe listed work to be comfore the work begins. Because of recent history, those in the know are �� hesitant to put an exact �� timetable on the work yet �� to be done. John Marshall with Satterfield & Pontikes 427 West 20th St. • Suite 212 Construction, who came on board in August of (across from Heights Hospital) 2013, did say that his com713-864-2621 Fax: 713-864-2622 pany will start work this June to finish up the 2007 �� bond projects. “We want �� Ad # 36774

residents the opportunity to go online and see the water pressure in their neighborhood at any time of day. One person asked if getting new pipes in the home would improve the water pressure, and Neese said it wouldn’t. Wastewater plan Iken gave citizens an update from a TMCC/Super Neighborhood 14 meeting held last March, regarding the Chemical Feed Station. He said the decision to begin construction is being ﬁnalized. The $2 million Capital Improvement Project is expected to begin during the ﬁrst quarter of 2015 and be completed by the second quarter of 2015.

Plan.” Mohite said W. 20th St. was determined to be a major road need area for Pre-Engineering. Wilcox said residents are concerned that the plan to widen W. 20th St. into a major four-lane road will dissect the Shady Acres neighborhood. “It runs counter to the vision of a pedestrian friendly, multimobile for all kinds of transportation options,” Wilcox said. Even though Wilcox isn’t pleased with the current plan, she said the city has been receptive and willing to have a conversation about it.

“The existing system is working, it’s just too small,” said Iken, who compared the status quo to using a sports car, instead of a truck or van, to move from one apartment to another. Odor complaints have declined, said Iken. While it can smell like rotten eggs at times, the stench isn’t a health hazard. “The new system will suck the air out of pipes, run it through scrubber and back in the atmosphere,” Iken said. Iken said the updated system is designed on a 50year engineering cycle, and it won’t be affected by population growth.

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Other projects mentioned at the District C Capital Improvement Meeting were: • Construction on T.C. Jester Blvd., south of I-10 (2017) and north of I-10 (2018) • Yale Street Bridge (a project that’s being completed in conjunction with TxDOT) • Little Thicket Park improvements

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THE TOPICS. Saturday, March 15, 2014 • Page 4A

An old friend is rejuvenating our community

ver the past couple of years, we’ve often been described as the “new owners” of The Leader. In fact, we got a call just this week from someone who had a very nice comment for “the new guy.” Obviously, that balances out when the next person calls and tells me to ﬁnd a tall building and trip over the railing. Part of the job, I suppose. Today, I really don’t want to talk about “the new guy,” or the “new” Leader. I want to talk about the “old guy.” I want to talk about the “old” Leader. Don’t take those descriptions the wrong way. We’re not talking about age here, and if you need evidence, you should have seen Terry Burge at the Greater Heights Chamber of Commerce’s annual Crawﬁsh Festival last weekend. The guy was every college party’s best friend, making more beer runs in a day than most of us made in a semester. (We’ll get back to that later.) For those who forgot or are too new to the area to remember, Terry was the owner of The Leader before I came along and messed things up. Terry ran our community’s newspaper for 43 years, which was

JONATHAN MCELVY Publisher

either a sign of unfailing devotion or absolute insanity. Out of generosity, we’ll say it was the former. Today, I want to tell our readers a little more about “the old guy.” I want to tell you about a man who has served us for almost ﬁve decades now, who has done more for our community than any single person I know. To do that, we need to hit rewind on this column. Almost one year ago, our area’s Chamber of Commerce had a big decision to make. The former director, Ken Stallman, had announced his decision to retire, and the board was charged with ﬁnding someone to take the helm. They needed someone who understood

Timbergrove native has ‘Keyes’ to success Eric Keyes lives the dream. From traveling between shows and playing guitar in a different city each night, the Timbergrove native is the guitar hero that most of us will only experience on a video game console. But as any musician will tell you, it’s not all fun and games. Like any successful endeavor, musicians need discipline and a strong work ethic. Keyes, a 1987 Waltrip High graduate, built that work ethic while delivering copies of The Leader as a teenager in his Timbergrove neighborhood. Keyes was encouraged by his parents, Marvin and Louise, to take a part-time job delivering papers, because lots of free time can equal problems. When Keyes graduated high school and enrolled at the University of North Texas’ music school in Denton, his parents continued his Leader route. That time in Keyes’ life was so special that he mailed a personalized letter and a copy of his sixth album, “Back in Blue,” talking about the days he came of age in the neighborhood. To check out Keyes’ music, log on to www.facebook.com/EricKeyesMusic

All kidding aside, the re-sale of these CDs is next to nothing, but a potential burglar isn’t thinking that way. So, the failing grade made an impact on me, and I’ll make more of an effort to protect my car.

A failing grade

Ending a text conversation

I’d never failed a class during my entire academic career, but I managed to fail a pop quiz on the evening of March 5. The Houston Police Department periodically issues report cards for vehicles’ “Theft Reduction.” The ofﬁcers completed 189 of these report cards during the District C Capital Improvement Meeting. Fifty-seven percent failed. Where did I go wrong? I had multiple 1980s and 1990s country music compact discs in my car. I could see a burglar break in for that 1980s George Strait record, but the 1990s Joe Difﬁe album, not so much.

Has anyone else felt awkward if a text message conversation didn’t end with a goodbye or see you later? Are we obligated to institute universal “text etiquette”? Since the nature of text messaging is different than personal interaction or a phone conversation, long pauses between texts can create confusion. This was particularly problematic back when I was in the dating game. Apparently, the rules are different when you’re engaged – return texts ASAP or end up in the dog house is the way I understand it.

MICHAEL SUDHALTER Editor

our community. They needed someone devoted. They needed someone who knew that serving our businesses was as important as hosting events. I wrote a column in April 2013 outlining those thoughts, and it’s fair to say many members of the Chamber weren’t exactly thrilled with my tact. Almost one year later, I’m here to tell you that our Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce appears headed down a path of success we haven’t seen in decades. The reason, in my opinion, starts at the top. When the board of directors hired Terry Burge, they didn’t just hit a home run. They hit a grand slam in the bottom of the ninth in Game 7 of the World Series. If you were lucky enough to attend the Chamber’s Crawﬁsh Festival this weekend, you got a taste of what Terry has done for the one organization in our area that works to bring everyone together. This was a family event in the middle of the Heights, and it was as well run as any event I’ve attended in my seven years living in our area. My unofﬁcial guess is more than 5,000 people walked through those gates, and I

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290 Construction hurts local businesses

(From TheLeaderNews.com) Bunch of crybabies. Of course the massive construction project will have some adverse eﬀects, but the end result will be better for everyone including these short-sighted business owners. Imagine if nothing was ever built because god forbid fewer people buy fajitas for a year or two. Brennan

From Facebook.com It’s really a sad situation. Luckily, I know all of the back roads. I’ll just be thrilled when they complete this mess they’ve made at East and West T C Jester and the Loop. It’s a huge mess, and is extremely problematic. The T C Jester lights allow only a few cars to get through before the light changes. I’ll be so glad when this is over. All of my life there has been extreme road work going on in Houston. I don’t think I’m awfully fond of progress and the fact that more people are moving to Houston. Tena M. Clark

Timbergrove native Eric Keyes

of Terry’s anger to tell the rest of you what a wonderful man we have leading our Chamber. In the past two years, I’ve grown to know Terry better than most know him. And considering that I negotiated, bought and overhauled his business, it wouldn’t have been improper for Terry to give me a glancing “hello” every once in a while. Of course he’s just the opposite. Terry and his adorable wife Debbie have become dear friends to me and my family. He asks about our son before he asks about his old business. He looks me in the eye, encouraging me when I need it and offering advice when I should take it. To have built this relationship with him is as meaningful as any success we’ve had in publishing The Leader. And what’s best is that every business in our community now has the same opportunity I’ve been given by Terry. He’s working for all of us, and that is a good thing. If you’re a business and you aren’t involved in the Chamber, you’d best hop on the momentum Terry has built.

doubt a single person left unhappy. (Maybe that’s because Terry had to make three extra beer runs.) But this Festival is only a taste of what’s happening at our Chamber. A couple of months ago, the organization hosted an Economic Forecast Luncheon that played to an absolutely packed ballroom at the Sheraton. After that (and what got less press), was the ﬁnancial planning evening held at Waltrip High School. Mix in all the weekly ribbon cuttings, young professional events, and focus on actually improving education in our community, and I’m willing to say we have one of the best Chambers in all of Houston. And I believe Terry Burge deserves a great deal of credit. Here’s the sad part. Terry is going to get mad at me for writing this column. He’s a gentleman through every inch of his body, quick to deﬂect praise, while crediting his board, the volunteers and the businesses who support the Chamber. He’s right to humbly pat others on the back, but Terry sometimes fails to realize that his passion and bravado are infectious to our community. I’ll live with the consequences

Of course the massive construction project will have some adverse eﬀects...

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From TheLeaderNews.com Melodye and her team at Let’s Travel Together do an outstanding job on premier travel and excellent client service! It is a pleasure having such a well traveled and detail oriented professional like Melodye arrange my special trips! From unique destinations and travel abroad, to amazing cruises, Melodye has the expertise to help you plan the trip of a lifetime! Mary Ann Romero

From TheLeaderNews.com To this day, I still use the skills I learned in a Waltrip Auto shop class with Mr. Killam. I change my own oil out of principal, as I can’t justify paying double for something I can do faster in my driveway, and I know it’s done right. An automotive class should be a mandatory class for every student, to simply learn the basics. Its easily a class that you will use everyday of your life. Bryan Treadway

LOOKING BACK. 20 years ago • March 17, 1994 Hogg Middle School beats gangs, guns with programs By Jim Magill Recently, a national publication featured a story on Hogg Middle School, which said the school had “beat violence,” through its tough discipline policies, but the school’s principal said the story is not that simple. A feature story in USA Weekend said the Houston Independent School District middle school in the Heights had turned around problems with gangs and fights through programs such as parent hall monitors, Teen Court and a mentoring program featuring officers of the Federal Drug Enforcement Agency. However, Principal Arrando Alaniz said Hogg’s problems with violence, gangs and guns were no different from any other innercity school in the country. He said that studies have shown that more violence occurs among middle-school students than with any other age student. “They’re not children and they’re not young adults. They don’t know how to deal with their problems,” he said.

30 years ago • March 15, 1984

Run with the Leader Have you been hesitating at entering The Leader’s 5-kilometer fun run because you don’t think you’re good enough or fast enough? Listen! You’d be surprised at who’s entering our big beneﬁt fun run. Sure our “Run with The Leader” is a well-organized and oﬃcially sanctioned event that is probably drawing a lot of “hot shoes.” But, hey, when we say fun we mean it.

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Some fun with numbers: In Texas they keep going up

How many U.S. presidents were born in Texas? How many people watched last season’s Texas top high school football final? How much is our gas tax? Not sure? Then let’s take a stroll down Texas’ Numerical Lane. We begin with 10.6 years – the average length of stay on our death row. Although Wendy Davis got wide publicity for her senate filibuster, Texas ranks 33rd for its percentage of female legislators. Women make up more than half the state, but only 21 percent of the 181 state legislators who served last year were women, down from 24 percent in 2009. You know those foam hands with the index finger sticking up at sporting events proclaiming, “We’re Number 1.” They were invented by a San Antonio company and are manufactured at a plant in Montgomery. Their biggest problem is pirates turning out their own version. So far the creators and makers have filed eight lawsuits against copycats, and won them all. Seven: The number of Texas Aggies who have received the Medal of Honor. Soon it will be eight

LYNN ASHBY Columnist

when Clarence E. Sasser (1969, Vietnam), who subsequently attended Texas A&M, joins them. Moving on: $2.75 million – The amount UT-Austin paid to buy out ﬁred head football coach Mack Brown. He also got a one-time payment of $500,000 as “special assistant” to the university president, although no one knows exactly what that entails. 1720. That was the year the Spanish government maintained more soldiers in San Antonio than had been employed throughout the conquest and subjugation of the Aztec and Inca empires. Dallas/Fort Worth has more shopping centers per capita than any other city in the nation. A new study from the Center for an Urban Future estimates it takes $123,322 in Manhattan to en-

joy the same middle-class life as someone earning $50,000 in Houston. In 2009, Texas oil production made up just 19 percent of the total U.S. oil production. It now makes up 36 percent. A big part of Texas oil production – about 31 percent – comes from the Eagle Ford. Texas produces more oil today than Nigeria and it’s only 200,000 barrels per day less than Venezuela, another major oil producer. If Texas were a country, it would be the world’s 12th-largest producer. On the other hand, Texans are Number One in consuming the most energy in the nation both in per capita and as a whole, and are Most Wanted by the EPA. The EPA’s compliance for ozone, or smog, standard is 75 parts per billion. Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth are 87. This brings us to 28 and 17. The 28 is the number of times Attorney General Greg Abbott has sued the Obama administration, and at least 17 of those suits were against the EPA in Abbott’s opposition to cleaner air rules. Our grandchildren will thank him, if they live that long.

Who was that mosque man? 1.7 percent of Texans are Islamic, which is twice the national average of Islamic population. Texas’ total headcount stood at more than 25 million residents in the 2010 U.S. Census, as the state population increased 20.6 percent since 2000. Much of the growth in the past decade was due to increases in our Hispanic population. They accounted for 65 percent of Texas’ growth between 2000-2010, and, today, make up nearly 38 percent of our population. That’s up from 32 percent at the end of the 1990s. And while Texas as a whole is growing rapidly, 96 counties lost population from 2010 to 2012. They were mostly in West Texas and the Panhandle. As of the 2013 estimate, there were 26,059,203 people living in Texas, but it’s still early in the day. That breaks down to 8.97 million households, 16.39 million of us are age 25 and up, 81.4 percent graduated from high school, only 26.7 percent have a college degree – bachelor’s and above. We have 1.6 million veterans, and 14 percent of families are

under the poverty level. One explanation for our population growth (and high poverty rate) is that more than half of the births in Texas are paid for by Medicaid. Let me explain the connection: That Medicaid number has grown in recent years, topping the 50 percent mark in 2006 and every year since. With the huge legislative cutbacks in women’s health care and Planned Parenthood, we can expect those Medicaid bills, which we pay, also to jump. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission estimates that the Legislature’s cuts will result in 23,760 additional births among low-income women in 2014-15. The additional cost to taxpayers could be as high as $273 million. You like higher taxes? Thanks, Texas legislators. Texans pay 20 cents per gallon in state gasoline taxes on top of the 18.4 cent federal taxes. Californians pay more than 52 cents per gallon in state and local taxes and fees. Small and midsize farms and ranches in Texas – those under 2,000 acres – have been declining by 250,000 acres a

year, apparently to make room for new houses. From 1997 to 2007, Texas lost about 1.5 million acres of agricultural land and is expected to lose a million more by 2020. It may seem to out-of-staters that Texans have taken over the Oval Ofﬁce in recent decades from Lyndon B. Johnson to George W. (Can Ted Cruz be far behind?) But only two of them were actually born in Texas, Dwight Eisenhower and LBJ. Ike thought he was born in Kansas, even stated so on his West Point ‘pointment. He was a ﬁve-star general commanding Allied forces when he received a letter from a woman in Denton who remembered babysitting him there. The Bushes senior and junior are from New England. Finally, about our Friday Night Rites: The Class 5A Division I state championship between Allen and Pearland last December drew 54,347 fans to AT&T Stadium, setting a new state attendance record. That was bigger than 21 different college bowl games last season. Ashby is counted at ashby2@comcast.net

Saturday, March 15, 2014 • Page 5A

Waltrip basketball team encourages Oak Forest Elementary students to read

THE PUZZLES. Solutions in this issue’s classsi¿ed section.

By Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

The faces of Chantil Gill’s second graders lit up when six Waltrip High boys basketball players entered the room to advocate for literacy. “I’m excited, and my students were excited when I told them the basketball players were coming,” Gill said. “They’ll be more encouraged to read.” Four seniors — Daniel Matta, Christian Salaza, Tre Johnson and Nathan Washington, and two juniors, John Coakley and Decory Edwards, each read a book to a group of students in the class as part of the “Dream to Read” program. WHS boys basketball coach Dan Kelly introduced his players, all of whom wore their Waltrip Ram warmup jerseys. The program is part of an effort to reach out to the community. Kelly hopes to bring WHS basketball players to read at other elementary schools in the area, such as Durham and Stevens. “We hope this is just the start,” Kelly said. “It’s good for our players to share the importance of reading.” Johnson, who also played quarterback for the WHS football team last fall, said he enjoyed reading a book to a group of students. “I feel honored to give back to the community and I like to put a smile on kids’ faces,” Johnson said.

Waltrip High senior boys basketball player Daniel Matta read to Oak Forest Elementary second graders last week. (Photo by Michael Sudhalter)

Coakley said it was interesting to hear all “of the crazy things they’d come up with when I was reading.” “I liked it a lot, and it reminded me of when I was in elementary school,” Coakley said. After the athletes read to the students in groups, the class re-convened, and the second graders got an opportunity to ask questions of the basketball players, such as their shoe size, their height and how many games they won last season.

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Page 6A • Saturday, March 15, 2014

Neighbors: Many honored for their service to others By Elizabeth Villareal

Waltrip High School graduates, Susan Casserly Brawner ’78 and Rosemary Rolke Kasprzak ’74, surprised fellow alumnae Cathy Compton Kurtz ’78 at her Book Launch Party on March 1. More than 80 guests gathered at the Blue Line Art Gallery in Roseville, Calif. to celebrate the release of Cathy’s memoir, “Living Through The Pain — The Lonely Me.” Cathy grew up in Lazybrook and in 1976, her parents, along with her brother and sister-in-law, died in a plane crash outside of College Station. Cathy shares her story about the great deal of emotional pain and stress in the decades following the tragedy, so that other people could learn how to better cope with loss. The story announcing Cathy’s book appeared in the Jan. 25 edition of The Leader.

elizasgarden@outlook.com

Congratulations to Molly Vitek, a senior at St. John’s School, who recently earned the Gold Award, Girl Scouting’s highest honor. Molly’s proud parents are Mary and Michael Vitek of Candlelight Estates. The Girl Scout Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting and it recognizes girls in grades 9 through 12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through Take Action projects. Only about 5 percent of Girl Scouts earn their Gold Award. For her own Gold Award project, Molly partnered with BOUNCE, a summer research program at the University of Houston, to host a leadership workshop for girls to earn the Girl Scout Gold Award. With less than five percent of girls who join Girl Scouts achieving this national recognition, Molly’s workshop is a wonderful idea. “I learned a lot of interesting facts about leadership, teaching and how research is conducted,” said Molly, a senior at St. John’s School. “I chose this project because it combined several of my passions: running, Spanish, science and leadership,”said Molly. Molly led a team of volunteers in hosting a four-week summer program for girls participating in BOUNCE at the University of Houston. She focused on teaching girls how to be a leader, and highlighted women in leadership as well as goal setting. In addition, Molly and her volunteers also participated in BOUNCE’s regular activities by collecting data and coaching girls through fitness activities. She used her knowledge of Spanish to communicate with BOUNCE participants and their parents who knew little to no English. Approximately 30 girls, ages 9-14, benefited from Molly’s project. “Molly was excited to be able to develop a service program that combined several of her interests including running, research and speaking Spanish,” said Michael Vitek, Molly’s father. “She learned data management and research techniques. She also learned leadership and organizational skills.” Molly has been a member of Girl Scouts for 13 years. She is a member of cross country and varsity track at St. John’s School. Following graduation in May she plans to attend college to study biomedical engineering. Way to go, Molly!

Evan Kramer, left, and Harriet Robinson at the Skyline District Awards Banquet. (Submitted photo)

The Skyline District Awards Banquet was held at the Cockrell Scout Center recently where the District Award of Merit was presented to two of its outstanding leaders, Evan Kramer and Harriet Robinson. The District Award of Merit is the highest honor a Scout Leader can earn at the District level. Both of these individuals have shown years of leadership and service to the Skyline District. Evan Kramer is an Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 30, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, District Program Chairman and Scout Roundtable Chairman, Skyline District. Evan is an Eagle Scout. Harriet Robinson is the Cub Master of Pack 352, Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church. Additionally, Harriet is on the Cub and Scout Committee of Troop 352 and Pack 352. She has held many leadership positions in Scouting at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church. Congratulations to these outstanding volunteers who are making a difference.

Hats off to Stephanie “Spoony” Witherspoon who has been named Waltrip’s Teacher of the Year. Spoony is beloved by teachers, administrators, parents and students alike for her passion for teaching, engaging personality, sense of humor, and her quick thinking, on-your-toes brand of teaching. Spoony heads up the Robotics squad at Waltrip and teaches engineering and Ad # 37768 robotics.

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Springtime preparations that will put Fido at ease

If you’re like me, you’re hoping that the worst of the winter weather is now firmly planted in our rearview and that warmer weather and more sunshine is ahead. Continuing on with this optimistic vein, today we’re going to talk about preparing your pet for spring. Lots of exciting things happen when the calendar flips: the time changes and the weather gets warmer. It’s smart to prepare your pet now for all of the changes ahead. Finalize your pet care With spring comes opportunities for travel. Now is a great time to secure care for your pets when you’re away. Meeting and booking a pet sitter to come to your home to care for your pets is best done fairly close to your travel time — so that your pets will remember him or her — but don’t rest on your laurels and try to book at the last minute. Get on your pet sitter’s calendar sooner rather than later to ensure that your spot is reserved. Make sure to have an extra key ready to give the pet sitter as well as emergency contact info and pet records. If you’re going to be boarding your pet while you’re on vacation, you’ll need to make sure that your pet is current on her vaccinations and in good health. Allergies While humans respond to pollen and dust in the air with itchy eyes, runny noses and the like, your pets sometimes respond to these same allergens by getting itchy. You might find your pet maniacally scratching his back and belly and chewing on his paws this time of year. This obsessive scratching can cause “hot spots” to form. A hot spot is inflamed, infected skin that occurs when your dog’s natural bacteria overwhelms an area of his skin. Typically the skin will be very red, and often there is bleeding and hair loss. Treatment for pet allergies include occasional use of an antihistamine, such as Benadryl, (check with your vet for proper dosing for your pet) frequent bathing and vitamin supplements, such as Omega 3 (fish oil). Thunderstorm anxiety Since spring sometimes comes in like a lion, we often have

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Sam is a vivacious 2 year old, 10 lb Chihuahua/Dachshund mix who proves that schnitzel and queso DO go together. What he lacks in size, Sam makes up for in enthusiasm. Sam has been waiting for his forever home for a few months now which is a puzzler for those who know him best. For more information on Sam, including more photos, a video and to view other adoptable dogs, please visit www.K-9AngelsRescue.org and www.facebook.com/k9angelsrescue.

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Saturday, March 15, 2014 • Page 7A

FROM THE PEWS. Men’s Club Fish Fry at St. Rose of Lima The St. Rose of Lima Men’s Club will hold their biannual Fish Fry from 4:30-7:30 p.m. March 14, in the East Hall. Plates will be $8 for adults and $5 for kids and will include generous servings of fish, french fries, hush puppies, cole slaw and tea. Dine in or carry out is available. Desserts will provided by the Altar Guild for $1. Tickets are available for purchase from the church or school office at 3600 Brinkman, or any Men’s Club member or at the door. Call 713-692-9123 or visit www.stroselima.org for information. New Lenten Bible Study at St. Matthew’s St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church, 4300 N. Shepherd Dr., will hold a new Lenten Bible Study at 6 p.m. beginning March 12. A light meal will be served as well as Holy Communion. If interested, please call the church office at 713-697-0671 to help get a count for the meal. St. Matthew’s has hired a new business manager. Courtney Graydosik is a CPA business owner and vital part of the church area. Life Line Screening will be at the church from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. April 14. Five screenings will be available as a package for $149 or $60 individually. Appointments are required and may be made by calling 1-877-792-8479. The church offers Sunday morning worship and Chil-

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dren’s Church at 9:30 a.m. Extra programs include Weight Watchers, Garden Club and Lydia Circle. For information, call 713697-0671 or visit www.stmatthewsmethodist.org. Movie matinee at Heights Christian Church Heights Christian Church, 1703 Heights Blvd., is having a movie matinee at 2 p.m. March 15, downstairs in the fellowship hall. The movie is “Courageous,” a story of a group ﬁrst responders who support one another during a time of tragedy and grief. The movie is free admission and open to the community. Call 713-861-0016 for information. Holy Trinity Anglican to celebrate Feast of St. Patrick, Stations of the Cross Parishioners of area Reformed Episcopal churches will gather at Holy Trinity Anglican, 211 Byrne, at 6 p.m., March 16, the eve of St. Patrick’s Day, to celebrate the Order for Evening Prayer. The Rt. Rev. Royal U. Grote Jr., Bishop Ordinary of the Diocese of Mid-America will deliver the sermon. A potluck of traditional Irish fare including shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, will follow in the fellowship hall. The Stations of the Cross is 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays through April 7. The Church of the Holy Trinity is a Reformed Episcopal Parish of the Anglican Church in North America. Call

713-862-5657 or visit www. holytrinityrec.org for information. Cruisin’ for Christ Car Show at St. Stephen’s All are welcome at the 2014 Cruisin’ for Christ Car Show at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church, 2003 W. 43rd St., from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. March 22 (rain date March 29). Admission is free. There will also be special activities for children and Boy Scout Troop 604 will sell barbecue lunches for $5. There is still time to register a vehicle for the show. All types are welcome, including motorcycles. Registration forms are available through the church ofﬁce and on the website. For information, call 713686-8241 or visit www.stsumc. org. Food Pantry in need of donations at Pathways Presbyterian The Pathways Food Pantry always needs food supplies. Cornbread mixes, soups, and macaroni are always needed. The pantry is open from 10 a.m.-noon Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. Pathways Presbyterian Church is located at 5900 Pinemont. Call 281-300-5129 or visit www.pathwayshouston.org for information. St. Andrew’s Episcopal welcomes new rector St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1819 Heights Blvd., welcomes the Rev. James M.L. Grace as new rector. He will begin his ministry April 1

THE OBITUARIES. Wilbur Lebron Hall, 89, born Sept. 20, 1924, died March 5. He is survived by his wife, Marie Hall, daughter Julie Beth Hamdan, son Michael Hall, and one grandson. Lavalla Hamilton, 92, born Oct. 5, 1921, died March 7. Zelda Mason, 84, born Dec. 12, 1929, died March 6. Jesse Morales Jr., 64, born Dec. 3, 1949, died March 6. Morales was a member of Local Carpenters Union #551. He is survived by his wife of 45 years Linda Morales, daughter Jessica Morales, son Xavier Morales, mother Sara Morales, sisters Gloria Espinoza, Belinda Morales and Crystal Morales, brothers Fred, Joe, Hector, Oscar, Randy, Thomas, David and Andy Morales, and two grandchildren. Anna Mae Meyer, 85, died March 4. Along with her husband, she was an independent distributor for the Houston Chronicle for 55 years and owner of Meyer’s Antiques. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Kay Payne, son Malon H. Meyer Jr., eight grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Gustavo Zamarron Rodriguez, 58, born Dec. 5, 1955 in

Houston, died Feb. 28. Rodriguez attended San Jose Catholic Preparatory School in Puerto Rico. He was employed by AC Engineering Systems for 20 years and recently by Taxman and Associates, LLC. He was an active member of All Saints Catholic Church. He is

survived by his wife of 30 years, Maria Luisa Rodriguez; his sons Gustavo and William Rodriguez; sisters Anita Trullenque and Soﬁa Schnell; and brother Mario Rodriguez. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.

Susan Alene Schumann (née Kokemoor), 70, born Nov. 30,

1943 in Houston, died March 3. She is survived by her children Matthew Schumann, Angela Bina, Christi Schumann, and ﬁve grandchildren. Memorial donations may be made to the La Crosse Public Education Foundation for literacy-based projects such as “The World We Live In.”

Children’s Art Project. Symmank is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, Christopher, their son Jonathan; siblings Frances, Nancy, Mark, Kathy, Cailyn and Erin.

died March 5. Symmank was a lifelong resident of the Heights. She graduated from Waltrip High School in 1986, before following her culinary dreams at the Art Institute of Houston. After working as sous chef in a number of local restaurants, she most recently managed the Ragin’ Cajun downtown. She was a passionate advocate for Aspergers Awareness and a lifetime volunteer with M.D. Anderson Cancer Center

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www.gospeltruthchurch.org

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from up 281-741-8611

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1624 W 34th • 713-686-7689

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Pet Cremations

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

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www.aikibudo-aikido.com

During the month of March, receive a special 10% savings on all dental cleanings and supplies

Gospel Truth Church

OPEN

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Speak to a receptionist today or call (713) 937-7274 to schedule your pet’s appointment

(1 mile North of HWY 290)

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Classes Enrolling Now Japanese Martial Arts 40 yrs experience 8th Degree Black Belt

Did you know? Bacteria from peridontal disease can spread through the bloodstream and damage internal organs (hearts, kidney, etc.)

7151 Fairbanks N. Houston

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AIKIDO & SELF DEFENSE

MARCH IS YOUR PET’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH

CHURCH Grace United Methodist Church

Bubblefest! children’s event at The Vineyard The Vineyard Church of Houston, 1035 E. 11th St., will be hosting Bubblefest! from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. April 5. This children’s event celebrates all things bubbles; foam pits, photos, games, food, and music. Bubblefest was voted Heights favorite community event, geared towards children 3-12 years old. Call 713-869-9070 or visit www.houstonvineyard. org for information.

Would You Wait a Lifetime To Brush Your Teeth?

Mary H. Stifter, 65, born Aug. 4, 1948 in Houston, died March 4. Stifter served as a Harris County Sergeant Sheriﬀ for six years. She was a member of the American Legion and Eastern Star-Garden Oaks Lodge and also a proud lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show Rodeo. Tracy Lynn Ryan Symmank, 45, born July 25, 1968,

and ofﬁciate his ﬁrst Eucharist April 6. Grace is a native Houstonian, graduated from Episcopal High School in 1994 and Southwestern University at Georgetown in 1998. He served as director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at Trinity Episcopal Church before attending Virginia Theological Seminary. He was ordained in 2005, and then served as associate rector at Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. Grace is married and has three sons. For information, call 713861-5596 or visit www.saecheights.org.

Sunday - Bible Study For All Ages .. 9:30am Morning Worship............ 10:45am Age Graded Zones ...........6:15pm Wed. Prayer Meeting & Missions Organization .....................6:15pm Dr. John W. Neesley - Senior Pastor

713-864-1470

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Chase Baker, D.D.S.

hen you have a crown made to protect a tooth that’s been badly damaged by decay, your dentist will pay special attention to the relationship of the surrounding teeth and how they follow the lines of your lips. He’ll also study the natural color of your teeth. When the crown is made, it can be covered with a natural-looking material, such as acrylic or porcelain. This is important when the crown is on one of your front teeth. When you open your mouth to speak or smile, you’ll feel cosmetically secure if the tooth has a natural look. Your dentist will also spend a lot of time shaping the crowned tooth so the contour will look natural as well as perfectly matching the shade of your other teeth. It should also properly support the shape of your lips. Care will be taken so that your face will keep its natural look and not change in any way. Your dentist is not only concerned about the good health of teeth and gums. He’s concerned about your personal appearance, too. 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.

Local business is our business. Send your story of interest news@theleadernews.com

MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

THE AGE OF ANXIETY

e live in perilous times. Rogue states with chemical or atomic weapons, fanatical terrorist groups spreading fear and hatred across the globe, and technology that changes too quickly for anyone to keep up with it are all part of our modern world. Our fears are stoked by the modern media’s 24/7 news cycle and its insistence that something terrible is just around the corner. Even those who are not particularly tuned into the news are anxious; there is a certain anxiety that comes with our modern technology. The noise of the cell phone ringing is like an alarm going off and it’s often just as startling. The ping of your computer telling you that you have a new message pushes the same anxiety button, and since our phones allow us to be constantly connected we are now living constantly with alarms, buzzers and a sense of time urgency. So, what can we do about all of this? A rst step might be to choose more soothing ring tones or just to turn the computer and phone off for extended periods of time. We should also take time out of our busy schedules for solitude and quiet time, a time when we might commune with God or nature and our souls can be at rest. God does not want us to be anxious; be in His presence and trust in the Lord. “The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:5-6

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

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Weekly Sunday Services • Bible Study: 9:15 a.m. • Morning:10:30 a.m. • Evening: 4:15 p.m.

1700 West 43 rd at Rosslyn 713-682-4942 Pastor – Dr. Richard Walters

Page 8A • Saturday, March 15, 2014

Art a la Carte: Get ready for their close-up In January I wrote about the Sojourn Studio Residency here in the Heights and how Sojourn gives chosen artists a cash stipend, space to create and an exhibition hosted by the church to feature the work created. The ﬁrst reception is this Friday above Paulie’s Restaurant at 1834½ Westheimer, featuring Texas artists Christina Macal, Stephanie Darling, and Juan Aaron Castillo. Darling’s work may be familiar to you. She completed two murals recently, one at the historic Heights Theater and one at Vietnam Restaurant in the Heights. What has an audience of 275,000 people from 31 countries in Houston every couple of years? FotoFest’s International BienMitch Cohen nial of Photography and Photo-related Art Arts Columnist does and it’s here in the Heights too. The FotoFest 2014 Biennial, the 15th International Biennial, is March 15 - April 27. FotoFest’s own exhibitions for the 2014 Biennial that focus on Contemporary Arab Video, Photography and Multi Media art are at my favorite artist studios, Spring, Winter and Silver Street Studios, and also Williams Tower, 2800 Post Oak Blvd. There are more than 100 participating spaces in this primarily self guided event. In the Heights area the following spaces are participating: Art Car Museum, Casa Ramirez Folkart Gallery, G Gallery, Koelsch Gallery, The Vineyard Church of Houston, Hardy & Nance Street Studios, Mother Dog Studios and Liberty Station. Good thing this show lasts six weeks, get all the details on the website at www.fotofest.org. Friday Sojourn Studio Residency Artist Exhibition, 6-9 p.m. 1834½ Westheimer. Sojourn Studio Residency hosts their ﬁrst resident artist exhibition featuring the diverse work of Christina Macal, Stephanie Darling, and Juan Aaron Castillo. Wine, hors d’oeuvres, and feature music by jazz band Leybon. Opening on March 14, the show runs through April 7. For more info visit https://www.facebook.com/sojournstudio. Saturday Britain’s Architects of Air returns to Discovery Green with

THE CALENDAR.

‘THIS IS THE LIFE’ PHOTO EXHIBITION The Art Car Museum “This is the Life” introduces a combination of portrait and landscape photography demonstrating the inﬂuences of music, adversity and politics on lifestyle. Works by Ken Hodge, Owen Fisher and Terry Swenson will be showcased. The opening will be from 7-10 p.m. March 15 and will run through June 8. Free admission. Information: 713-861-5526, www.artcarmuseum.com. YMCA SUMMER JOB FAIR YMCA of Greater Houston Each of the 37 YMCA centers in Houston, including the Harriet and Joe Foster YMCA, 1234 W. 34th St., will hold job fairs from 9 a.m.-noon, March 15, for seasonal positions. Applicants should bring a resume and a

completed application, which can be obtained in the lobby on the day of the fair. Information: www. ymcahouston.org, 713-869-3378.

FREE SPAY AND NEUTER Spay Neuter Assistance Program The Spay Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP) will provide free spaying and neutering, rabies vaccinations (only for dogs and cats spayed or neutered that day) for animals belonging to qualifying low-income dog or cat guardians at the West End Multi-Service Center, 170 Heights Blvd. (park in back lot B), March 17. It is suggested for clients to arrive at 6 a.m. All dogs must be restrained by leash and cats in carrier. Dogs and cats should not have food after 10 p.m. the night before surgery. Information: 713522-2337.

Miracoco, a one-of-a-kind stunning new luminarium! Inspired by the Lotus Temple in India, the monumental, inﬂatable structure is a dazzling maze of winding paths and soaring domes designed to generate a sense of wonder at the beauty of light and color. Rising almost 30 feet in the air and occupying half a football ﬁeld, Miracoco can be appreciated by people of all ages, cultures and abilities. March 15-23, 2014, discoverygreen.com/architects-of-air East End Arts Market, Spring Edition 12-5 p.m. 708 Telephone Rd. Ste. C. Hardy & Nance Studios 3rd Saturday Open Studios, 902 Hardy Street; http://hardystreetstudios.blogspot.com Discovery Green Flea, 11 a.m-5 pm; Recycled/up-cycled, eco-friendly art market at Discovery Green downtown, 1500 McKinney. Chase Hamblin performs at 12:30 p.m. and The Luxury Trio will perform from 3-5 p.m. Ashley Pridmore “ANIMAL+VEGETABLE+MINERAL,” Opening Reception 6-9 p.m. Redbud Gallery, 303 East 11th St. Sunday “Unity in Diversity” FotoFest Reception, 1-2:30 p.m. Vineyard Church of Houston, 1035 E 11th St. 2nd Cup’s re-opening date coincides with a FotoFest reception, on display in the Cafe through May 18.

�� Boys & Girls ages 4-13 in The Heights

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�� June 2 - August 15

EARLY Registration ends April 1, 2014 $60.00 Registration fee per camper. (Includes Camp T-Shirt & Camp Bag)

MANDATORY Registration April 23, 2014 (anytime between 5pm-7pm approximately 20 minutes) at ALL SAINTS PARISH HALL

for more info kimfair56@att.net

Home Ofﬁce- 281-382-8829

Tuesday, March 18 American Society of Media Photographers group show in conjunction with FotoFest at 1100 Louisiana from 6-9 p.m. Including work by Daniel Kramer. Wine and light hors d’oeuvres for the opening night.

All Saints Catholic Parish 215 E. 10th St.

Thursday, March 20 10 Years of Awesome! An Art Salon, 6-9 p.m. Public House Heights, 2802 White Oak, Ste. 100. For the ﬁrst time in 10 Years, First Saturday Arts Market artists take their art indoors for a show and anniversary celebration. This is me, and you are invited!

PET EMERGENCY

www.kidsfuncamp.net

VERGI

Cohen is the founder and manager of First Saturday Arts Market. Contact him at ArtValet@gmail.com or visit him on the web atArtValet.com.

A 24-Hour Emergency and Critical Care Hospital STEAK NIGHT Sons of Legionaires Come by for a good steak and a good time at the American Legion Post 560, 3720 Alba Rd. Dinners will be served March 21, from 6 p.m. until sold out. There will be entertainment. Information: 713-682-9287, www.americanlegionpost560.org. VENDOR FAIR Lutheran High North Band Lutheran High North Band Vendor Fair will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, March 22. Free admission. Lutheran High North is located at 1130 W. 34th St. Information: 713-880-3131, www.lutheranhighnorth.org. K-9 FUN RUN AND WALK Houston Humane Society Participate in the one mile competitive run or the relaxed one

mile non-competitive dog jog and walk. The event is 10 a.m. March 23, at Sam Houston Park, 1100 Bagby St. Information: 713-4336421, www.houstonhumane.org.

8921 Katy Freeway • Houston, Texas 77024 off I-10 between Campbell and Voss near Goode Company BBQ & Carter’s Country.

PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN TOURS Stevens Elementary School Lulu M. Stevens Elementary School, 1910 Lamonte Ln., is oﬀering Pre-K and Kindergarten Tours at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Mar. 26. Information: 713-6132546.

Open 24/7/365 • www.vergi247.com

713-932-9589

HYPO NETWORKING EVENT Heights Young Professionals Organization Come by and network with other business professionals at Witchcraft Tavern, 1221 W. 11th St., from 6-8 p.m. March 27. Information: 713-861-6735, www. heightschamber.com.

GET YOUR BUSINESS

MOVING

Run your ad in the Leader. Call to get started 713.686.8494

KICK YER BOOTS OFF AND RELAX. receive a Reviving Foot Scrub with the purchase of a massage.* * Offer good through March 31 with the minimum purchase of a 1-hour massage. Must mention offer to receive free foot scrub.

1-hour massage

99*

*Introductory rate valid for Members and ﬁrst-time Guests only.

Actual massage time is 50-Minutes hands-on. Additional local taxes and fees may apply. See Retreat for details. Each Massage Heights Retreat is independently owned and operated. Franchise opportunities available. ©2013 Massage Heights, LLC.

Washington Heights Shopping Center 103 Yale Street Houston TX 77007 713.864.2403 RotaryFandango4.92x5Rev.pdf

Now Selling!

Homes from the $800’s

CMY

Community Features:

• For more information, visit ryland.com.

2/21/14

8:42 AM

Saturday, 29 March 2014

• •

Tree-lined streets Old fashioned living just minutes away from downtown Close to the Washington Avenue entertainment district

Knights of Columbus hall at Whitney and Oxford Music by

11:00 - 3:00

Silent Auction

Gourmet Food Trucks

Bounce House & Face Painting for kids Raffle for Chances to Win $100-$7500

For more information, go to www.heightsrotaryevents.com to pre-purchase tickets.

$18-adults includes 1 beer or wine, live music by the Zydeco Dots, and chance to buy food from 10 gourmet food trucks or shrimp and crawfish!

TO MMIE VAU GHN ®

In the Houston division, prices, plans, elevations and specifications are subject to change without notice. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Ryland Homes is an ENERGY STAR® partner. ENERGY STAR® certified new homes must meet strict energy efficient guidelines set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For more information visit www.energystar.gov. “Houston’s Best” awards are selected from entries submitted by members of the Greater Houston Builders Association, and are judged anonymously by a panel of industry professionals from around the nation. BUILDER magazine named Ryland Homes the 2012 “Fastest-Growing Public Homebuilder” in the May 2013 issue of Builder 100. See Sales Counselor for details on available promotions, restrictions and for a complete list of HouseWorks® features. © 2014 RH of Texas Limited Partnership. RH1201

During the event, test drive a new Ford vehicle. For each test drive, Tommie Vaughn Ford and Ford Motor Company will make a donation to the Rotary Club of Houston Heights.