Leader0322a

Inside Today: Oak Forest teacher honored • 5A

������������� ����� ������������

����������� ���������

�������

����������������� ��������������� ������������ ������������ ������������

������������

s ’ e n e l r a D

������������������

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

�������������������������

Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Vol. 60 • No. 20

ABOUT US

Local Cow-Boy

3500 East T.C. Jester Blvd.

Suite A (713) 686-8494 news@theleadernews.com www.theleadernews.com Facebook/THE LEADER.

www.allenSOLDit.com

10570 NW Frwy 713-680-2350

Oak Forest resident Adam Mata was a participant in Monday’s Mutton Bustin competition at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. Out of 13 children, he came in third place.

Parents Mike and Dalila Mata were very proud of their little cowboy and Adam was quite attached to his trophy. (Submitted photos)

������������ ���������������

832.419.9969

MORE INSIDE

Find out more about one of the best teachers in Houston

Page 8A

I-45/Shepherd Construction

The Shepherd/I-45 project will include the building of an elevated connector ramp from I-45 North Freeway southbound to Shepherd Drive southbound and an elevated connector ramp from Shepherd northbound to I-45 North Freeway northbound.

The ramp from I-45 to Shepherd will allow for traffic to bypass the signalized intersection at Little York/Victory and go directly onto Shepherd. The ramp from Shepherd to I-45 will allow traffic to enter I-45 from the outside (right) lane rather than the current set up that has traffic entering from the inside (left) lane, which is a significant bottleneck.

These new ramps along with some additional striping and other modifications will significantly improve traffic conditions along I-45 North Freeway, which has been one of the busiest stretches of highway in the state. The construction began in December 2013 and the project is scheduled to be completed in early 2015.

– Information courtesy of TxDOT

A Heart as big as...

By Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

����������������� ������ �������������� ��������� �������������

������������ ������ ��������

�������������������������

Heights resident Courtney Seng has traveled to Africa as a study abroad student and as an employee of a non-profit.

(Submitted photos)

Heights resident makes an impact on two continents

By Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

�����������������������

FIND IT. TWO GARAGE SALES: 30073014 Moonstone, Friday 8-5, March 21.

HOUSECLEANING: Honest, dependable. For over 20 years.

All types of cleaning. 281-9488590.

DINING ROOM TABLE: Four chairs, solid light Oak, expands, $300. Leave message. 713-6838832.

TUTORING - RETIRED TEACHER: Grades K-8th grade.

281-964-9901.

Heights resident Courtney Seng is grateful for the opportunities she’s had to learn about life and culture in Africa.

“The people were so nice and so welcoming,” Seng said. “I’ve never had that type of hospitality.”

Seng, 28, who grew up in the Heights and graduated from Travis Elementary and Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart (DASH), studied International Affairs at George Washington University (GWU) in Washington D.C. During her senior year in high school, Seng became interested in Africa after she and her classmates raised money to build

6B

Coupons

8B

Food/Drink/Art Obituaries

9A 7A

Opinion

4A

Public Information Puzzles Sports

2A 7A 5B

2014

7A

Classifieds

See SENG, P. 3A

Heights resident Courtney Seng has traveled to seven different countries in Africa. (orange areas)

Bicyclists in the Houston area have been working with municipal and law enforcement officials to ensure their safety from motorists.

“There’s definitely a public perception that cyclists don’t belong on the road and we’re second class citizens (to motorists). That’s definitely false,” said Fred Zapalac, owner of Blue Line Bicycle Lab, which has a location at 3302 White Oak Dr., in the Heights.

Mayor Annise Parker and Mayor Pro Tem Ed Gonzalez, the council member for District H, have taken steps toward addressing cyclist safety.

On March 12, Parker appointed Patrick Walsh to the city’s Director of Planning and Development Department.

According to BikeHouston Executive Director Michael Payne, Parker gave Walsh “Marching orders...to begin working on a more comprehensive bike plan.”

Walsh had successfully led Sugar Land’s Bicycle Master Plan while working as the suburban city’s Director of Transportation and LongRange Planning.

Payne said Houston’s bike plan is long overdue, saying it’s been 20 years since the last one was done.

Gonzalez, the chair of the city council’s Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee, will discuss cyclist safety at its next meeting, 10 a.m.

Tuesday, March 25 at City Hall.

Last year, Gonzalez passed the Vulnerable Road Users ordinance, which helps bicyclists pass safely.

Parker and Gonzalez have been working closely with the Houston Police Department to “protect all road users,” according to Gonzalez’s office.

The cyclist community has been trying to get safer roads for a long time.

According to Zapalac, cyclist-related hit and runs often go unreported.

“If there’s just damage to the bike, (the motorist might) pay, and they’ll part ways,” Zapalac said. “Many (inSee BICYCLE, P. 3A

THE LEADER’S Senior Expo filling spaces fast

THE INDEX. Church

a school in Uganda.

In college, she studied abroad in Senegal, which sparked her interest in returning to the continent she studied in college.

Seng’s been to Africa seven times, visiting Senegal, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

She visited many of those countries while working for FHI 360, a D.C.-based international non-profit that worked on global health programs, including AIDS and malaria.

“We worked with a lot of local organizations, we met with them and we assessed their organizations and their health pro-

City to look at Bicycle safety

Presented by Partnering with

The Leader’s inaugural Senior Expo, presented by Memorial Herman Northwest Hospital, is quickly reaching capacity, both for businesses and those interested in attending the event.

The Expo, slated for April 23 from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at SPJST Lodge 88, is a first-of-its-kind program developed for seniors in The Leader’s coverage area, focused on providing information to make your lives easier and healthier.

Whether it is legal, financial, healthcare, Medicare, travel or real estate advice, more than 30 businesses from around the area have already signed up to be part of

TO REGISTER

• Call us at (713) 686-8494 • Fill out a registration form on Page 3A, and mail or deliver it to our office (address at top left of Page 1) • Visit our website click “Senior Expo.” www.theleadernews.com

the 2014 Senior Expo, and more than 200 area seniors have already registered to attend.

There is still a little space left for local businesses that would like to take part in the event, and we still have room for seniors (or those who help care for them). But registering soon is important to ensur-

ing a space.

“Since Day 1 of owning The Leader, we’ve wanted to find a way to do something fun in our community,” said Jonathan McElvy, publisher of The Leader. “At some point, we’re going to stop being surprised at the way local people support local events, but the reaction to the Senior Expo has blown us away.”

Along with plenty of time to visit with exhibitors, the Senior Expo includes free admission, free lunch and talks throughout the day on topics important to seniors. There will also be games and prizes throughout the day.

The Right Size. The Right Time.

In your neighborhood & online at yourblvd.com 713.862.1600

THE PUBLIC. Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Page 2A

Woman arrested for assault The Houston Police Department arrested Victoria Guerrero at 4:15 p.m. on March 9 in the 800 block of Beverly.

Guerrero, 33, allegedly stabbed her 32-year-old husband multiple times with a kitchen knife. She was charged with agGuerrero gravated assault of a family member.

Police make arrest in high speed chase

The Houston Police Department arrested David James Chapman and charged him with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon and felony evading arrest after a high-speed chase in the Heights at 4 a.m. last Sunday.

Chapman, 18, allegedly was the driver of a gray 2004 Volkswagen Jetta in the chase, and the passenger is still at large. The passenger is described as a Hispanic male believed to be armed with a knife, standing between 5-foot-6 and 5-foot-10, and weighing between 175 and 190 pounds.

Police were called to the 1000 block of North Loop West, between Ella and Shepherd, for an accident, but they soon learned it was a robbery call.

The suspects allegedly had pulled their car on the side of the

road, in front of a vehicle driven by a 29-year-old woman who had stopped to fix her GPS. The suspect at large allegedly pulled a knife on the victim and stole her purse and cell phone, before the high-speed chase. Her purse was later recovered, but the cell phone was not.

Police located and arrested Chapman after a K-9 found him between North Shepherd and W. 15th St.

Man robbed at North Shepherd Valero

Police arrested Timothy Louis Williams and charged him with robbery by threat at 12:10 a.m. on March 14 at the Valero Gas Station, 1816 N. Shepherd Dr. Williams, 46, reportedly asked a customer for money and then allegedly took the customer’s wallet and cell phone, before fleeing on a bicycle.

Williams was taken into custody after a short foot pursuit, and the stolen items were recovered.

Truck Stop arrest

Frank Barrera Castillo was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and felon in possession of a weapon at 1 a.m. on March 11 at the Love’s Truck Stop, 210 Patton.

Castillo, 48, allegedly attempted to rob the truck stop before ordering a witness to drive him away. He allegedly led officers in a foot pursuit before he

Houston Heights Woman’s Club Heritage Group

was taken into custody.

�������������� ��������� ����������� ��������

Assault on Floyd

A 27-year-old female victim got into an argument with her boyfriend at 6:35 p.m. on March 8 in the 4700 block of Floyd.

The suspect, described as a 36-year-old white male, began punching her and assaulted her with various household objects.

He fled the scene, and she called police.

The victim suffered numerous non-life threatening injuries but refused medical treatment at the scene. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.

������

���������� ������������������ ��������������� ��������������������������������������

�����������������

������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������� ������������������������������ ��������������������������������

������������������������������������� ���������������������������������

Assault on Edison

A 30-year-old female was taken to LBJ Hospital where she was treated and released after suffering various injuries from her 45-year-old boyfriend at 7 p.m. on March 8 in the 4000 block of Edison.

No arrests have been made, but HPD’s Special Crime/Family Violence is following up on the case.

Assault on Elysian

A 27-year-old black female assaulted a 24-year-old victim with a knife, causing a laceration to her cheek at 7:15 p.m. on March 15 in the 3800 block of Elysian.

The suspect fled the scene, and no arrests have been made yet.

The victim was treated at the scene.

Police Reports • March 4-14 MARCH 4

Theft 2 PM 1700-1799 T C JESTER BLVD

DON’T BE A VICTIM!

Concealed Handgun Classes

WE BUY ALL GUNS

MARCH 5

Theft 5 PM 1800-1899 YALE Theft 11 PM 4300-4399 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 6 PM 900-999 NORTH LP W Theft 9 PM 4400-4499 SHEPHERD DR Theft 6:45 PM 100-199 YALE

MARCH 6

SELL ★ TRADE

BLACK GOLD GUNS & AMMO 713-694-4867 875 Wakefield Dr. Licensed FFL/Class III Dealer

Theft 5:44 PM 900-999 NORTH LP W SER Theft 8 AM 1700-1799 T C JESTER BLVD Theft 11:30 PM 400-499 THORNTON Theft 6 PM 3600-3699 CENTER Theft 7 PM 2800-2899 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 10 PM 5600-5699 YALE Theft 8:21 AM 2200-2299 MANGUM Theft 11 PM 100-199 CROSSTIMBERS Theft 12 PM 5900-5999 WASHINGTON AVE Burglary 9 PM 2000-2099 11TH Theft 12:30 PM 1600-1699 24TH ST Theft 2:27 PM 5200-5299 WERNER ST

MARCH 7

Theft 3 PM 100-199 NORTH LP SER Theft 6 PM 700-799 20TH ST Burglary 11:35 PM 3100-3199 LAWRENCE Theft 6:13 AM 100-199 YALE Theft 11 PM 4500-4599 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 2:28 PM 700-799 14TH ST Theft 6 PM 600-699 COLUMBIA Theft 10 AM 1100-1199 23RD Theft 6:30 PM 2200-2299 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 6 AM 100-199 SPELL

MARCH 8

★ BUY ★

PERSONAL DEFENSE WEAPONS

Burglary 12:37 PM 1100-1199 16TH ST Assault 10:32 AM 3500-3599 MAIN Theft 12:01 AM 1700-1799 SEASPRAY CT Theft 12:18 PM 1500-1599 NORTH LP W SER Theft 1:55 PM 100-199 YALE Robbery 2 PM 2200-2299 TAYLOR Robbery 1:50 AM 300-399 T C JESTER BLVD Theft 3 AM 2400-2499 HACKETT Theft 10 PM 3600-3699 KATY FWY SER Theft 7:30 PM 1700-1799 DURHAM DR Theft 10 PM 10600-10699

HEMPSTEAD HWY Theft 8:15 PM 4400-4499 MARINA Theft 4 PM 1900-1999 EDWARDS ST Theft 4:40 PM 4300-4399 HAYGOOD

MARCH 9

Burglary 12:45 AM 1500-1599 DURHAM DR Theft 12:30 PM 900-999 SHEPHERD DR Theft 11 AM 4500-4599 DACOMA ST Theft 3:30 AM 4500-4599 34TH Theft 3 PM 3000-3099 SHEPHERD DR Theft 12:01 AM 1300-1399 PRINCE Burglary 8:45 PM 4500-4599 SHEPHERD DR Theft 8 PM 1600-1699 34TH ST Assault 4:17 PM 800-899 BEVERLY ST Theft 8:45 PM 4500-4599 SHEPHERD DR Theft 5 AM 700-799 JANISCH Theft 12 AM 1700-1799 SEASPRAY CT Theft 12 AM 1300-1399 WAKEFIELD DR

MARCH 10

Theft 3:48 PM 4900-4999 SHEPHERD DR Theft 10:30 PM 1000-1099 20TH ST Theft 4 PM 1400-1499 SHEPHERD DR Theft 7 PM 4000-4099 SHEPHERD DR Theft 4:30 PM 4800-4899 SHEPHERD DR Theft 3:30 PM 100-199 CROSSTIMBERS Theft 5:44 PM 1300-1399 CROSSTIMBERS Theft 12 PM 3700-3799 CENTER ST Burglary 3 PM 200-299 20TH ST Theft 12 AM 1300-1399 STUDEWOOD Theft 7:45 PM 1300-1399 20TH Theft 8 PM 500-599 CROSSTIMBERS

Theft 7:30 PM 1700-1799 T C JESTER BLVD

MARCH 11

Robbery 5:45 PM 4700-4799 OXFORD ST Burglary 7 AM 1600-1699 T C JESTER BLVD Theft 9:20 PM 4400-4499 SHEPHERD DR Theft 5 PM 3900-3999 KOEHLER Theft 10:30 PM 5100-5199 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 9:45 PM 900-999 DURHAM DR Theft 9:57 PM 900-999 DURHAM DR Theft 3:30 PM 8000-8099 MAIN Theft 2 PM 1800-1899 ELLA Burglary 11 AM 5500-5599 LARKIN Theft 4 PM 5600-5699 YALE Burglary 4:30 PM 5600-5699 YALE

������������������ In the Houston division, prices, plans, elevations and specifications are subject to change without notice. Map is an artist’s conception for general information purposes only and is not to scale. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. See Sales Counselor for details on available promotions and restrictions. © 2013 The Ryland Group, Inc. RH1063

New Menu, New Chef...

Kojak’s is making delicious changes! ����������

�����������������

MARCH 12

Theft 9:26 PM 11000-11099 NORTHWEST FWY SER Theft 1 PM 1200-1299 EDWARDS ST Theft 7 PM 1000-1099 STUDEWOOD Theft 8:30 PM 3200-3299 HOUSTON AVE Theft 7:20 PM 3700-3799 CENTER ST

MARCH 13

Theft 4:45 PM 5400-5499 WASHINGTON AVE

MARCH 14

Theft 6 PM 200-299 20TH ST Theft 7 PM 600-699 19TH ST Theft 6:45 PM 1100-1199 19TH Theft 4:58 PM 1000-1099 43RD ST Theft 2 PM 3900-3999 DACOMA Theft 7:55 PM 1200-1299 DONOVAN Theft 7 PM 1100-1199 19TH ST Robbery 12:10 AM 1800-1899 SHEPHERD DR Theft 8 PM 1300-1399 WALTON Theft 10:30 PM 6500-6599 WYNNWOOD LN Theft 9 PM 6500-6599 WASHINGTON AVE

���������������������������������

Catering available Your facility or ours!

Call or go online

��������������

��������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������� �����������������������������������������������

�����

���������������������

����������������������������������� �������������������� ����������� ������������������������������� ������������������������� ����������������� ��������������������������������

������������������������������������������� ����������������������� ������������

Reports are provided by SpotCrime.com based on data from the Houston Police Department.

������������������

Supplies for any occasion

PET EMERGENCY

VERGI A 24-Hour Emergency and Critical Care Hospital

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

Open 24/7/365 • www.vergi247.com

713-932-9589

U PAY LESS - U GET MORE! 2830 HICKS • 713-869-8321 • ArnesWarehouse.com

Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Page 3A

SENG, from P. 1A grams,” Seng said. “We provided different recommendations to strengthen their programs.”

Seng also taught students in several subjects at an orphanage school in Kenya. She was in Malawi during an energy crisis, in which it was nearly impossible to travel due to gasoline shortages.

Last year, Seng decided to move back to Texas after several years in Washington D.C. “The Heights is really different from when I grew up,” she said. “It’s just grown so much since I’ve grown up there. I really enjoyed my friends, and there was a strong sense of community, which is still there. It’s fun to watch it grow.”

Seng is working toward a Masters in Business Administration in Marketing and Energy from Rice University. She’s on pace to graduate next spring.

“It was neat living in D.C. for so long – It’s a really cool city,” Seng said. “But I missed Texas and wanted to come back.”

During the fall semester of her senior year, Seng had the opportunity to attend President Barack Obama’s first inauguration ceremony.

“It was amazing – that’s one of the cool things about living in D.C., a lot of history was made there,” Seng said.

–Jim Reynolds, former writer for The Leader, contributed to this article.

SENIOR EXP

What to expect at the 2014 Senior Expo:

SUPERIOR

• FREE Admission • FREE Food & Drinks • Gifts and drawings • Games and activities Expanded, comprehensive emergency care.

• Educational information on health, And still the only trauma center in The Heights. finances and legal concerns The best for trauma careto in The Heights isexperts now even • Achoice chance meet who will offer free better. Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital proudly announces advice on a number of issues important to you the expansion of our emergency services. By adding nearly 10,000 square feet with the latest medical technologies, we continue to • An opportunity to mingle with friends provide the highest quality trauma care right here in our TO REGISTER: community. So in case of emergency, you know where to turn — Memorial (713) Hermann Northwest.

686-8494 • www.theleadernews.com

Heights resident Courtney Seng worked and volunteered in Africa over the past few years. She’s back in Houston working on her MBA at Rice.

(Submitted photo)

BICYCLE, from P. 1A cidents) are non-injury, and a lot of times, the cars just drive off. Hit and run is an endemic problem.”

The issue hit a boiling point last December when 24-year-old Chelsea Norman, was struck by a vehicle at W. Gray and Waugh Dr. while riding her bicycle home from the Whole Foods at 701 Waugh Dr. where she worked.

The driver, Margaret Renee Mayer, was arrested in connection with the hit-and-run in February, after police received a tip from one of Mayer’s friends.

Payne said BikeHouston has created “a Goal Zero Facilities” campaign to reduce collisions between motorists and cyclists “by mapping key bicycle corridors and subsequently investing to make them safer.”

Volunteer Opportunity From the HAY Center Prom season for high school seniors in the Foster Care system can be a memorable time with the help of volunteers who wish to donate to the HAY Center.

The HAY Center is accepting prom attire for new or gently used formal dresses and men’s suiting.

In addition to prom formal wear, volunteers can donate makeup, perfume, cologne or nail polish, jewelry, or gift cards to restaurants. Cash donations will be used to purchase items not donated.

Donations may be dropped off at Jubilee, 325 W. 19th St. For more information, call Alexis Kidd at 713-869-5885.

Local exchange parents needed

Banquet Hall

��������������������� ���������������������������������������������

E. Whitney

�����������������

Crosstimber

5

���������������������������������

Northline Mall Airline Dr

school year or even a welcome family for the first six weeks of the semester, please contact the local coordinator of Year in America, Gerri Manlove, at 713-681-6875 or gembus@earthlink.net

To learn more, visit memorialhermann.org

I-4

Many exchange students Would you like to helping come to the Houston area them learn about our culture? look for families who are interThese students have many ested in opting them, so they talents, and they enrich the can experience the way of life lives of local families.

Anyone interested in bein an American family, and at an10x10.5 American high school. ing host AM family Leader Ad_Layout 1 1/27/14a 10:18 Pagefor 1 the

Sponsored by:

� � ���������������������

610

ASSISTED LIVING M E M O RY C A R E OPENING FALL 2014!

PLEASE JOIN US FOR AN INFORMATIVE PRESENTATION TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE VILLAGE OF THE HEIGHTS! WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 • 3:00-4:30 OR 5:30-7:00

HOUSTON HEIGHTS FIRE STATION • 107 W. 12TH STREET, HOUSTON, 77008

ENJOY THE BEST OF ALL WORLDS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD YOU LOVE The Village of The Heights will offer peace of mind, safety and security to those you love by providing thoughtful, individualized care.

Studio, One-& Two-Bedroom Apartments • Private Memory Care Suites Intimate Dining • Innovative Programs • 24 Hour Professional Staff

Learn more about becoming a “Charter Club Member” TODAY!

713-623-6767 1407 Studewood • Houston, TX • www.villageoftheheights.com License Pending

THE TOPICS. Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Page 4A

Can you find any good from traffic sins?

I

need to make a confession to readers. As a newspaper, we’re charged with reporting about people who break the law, and it’s time for me to come clean. Twice, in the past two years now, I’ve run afoul of the authorities.

My transgressions have not required jail time, but you need to know about them. Last year, I was ticketed for driving 38 mph in a 30 mph zone. We all know about the supposed 10-mph buffer – or so we thought – but I didn’t think the unspoken “buffer rule” would hold up in court. I broke the law, so I paid my ticket.

Fast forward to this February, when I again found myself in the crosshairs of the law. I can’t tell you much about the ticket, because I’m fighting this one. All you need to know is that a car was sticking out of a lane, so I went around said car, only to return to my original lane of travel.

There were no cars behind me, save for the one about 500 yards back. That car, it turns out, had blue lights on its top, and I was pulled over for changing lanes without using my turn signal.

These are not jokes. These are real

JONATHAN MCELVY Publisher

tickets, given by real police officers, whom (or is it who?) our tax dollars fund to serve and protect.

Obviously, I have my theories on why I have received two tickets in two years, when in my previous 24 years of driving, I had received all of one moving violation. (College parking tickets don’t count, do they?)

The first theory is that I’ve levied some criticism on city government in the past few months, which has now made me the subject of a vicious government conspiracy. They want to strip me of my driving privileges.

The second theory is that I’m brainless, because I know local police often get grants to round up all the traffic violators in a specific part of town. In fact, I have it on good authority that during these round-

ups, officers have a 10-ticket quota, and I have to think I was the 10th both times. And for the record, I still think I used my turn signal, because I always do. (Just in case this column comes up during my deposition.)

My transgressions are not laughing matters, even though I laughed after my turn-signal ticket. Maybe that’s because on a stretch of about one mile of paved roadway, when I was a bit miffed at the ticket, I saw six other cars change lanes without using a signal. Trust me, I counted violations for the next two days.

Even still, it isn’t mature of me to use an entire column to whine about grant-funded tickets. Instead, I want to take these bad experiences and use them to focus on doing some good around here. I want to do my part to make our streets safer.

So let’s start with the most inane question that’s run through my mind for more than a year. If you are driving through a school zone during normal school hours, you’ll see the yellow lights imploring you to drive 20 mph. But what happens when school is not in session (such as this week, which was Spring Break) but the 20 mph lights are still flashing?

Are you still supposed to slow down,

even though there’s no one at the school? The signs do say slow down “when lights are flashing.”

I called my adversaries down at the Houston Police Department (just kidding, they’re great to work with), and asked about this. John Cannon, spokesman for HPD, said police would not issue a ticket if you don’t slow down to 20 in those sections when school is not in session. I’m not sure I believe him, but at least I got my question answered. You’re welcome. Let’s speed it up folks.

There are other questions I have about traffic that aren’t so easy to answer. For instance, why, when I’m the sixth car at a stoplight, does it take 30 seconds for me to begin moving after the light has turned green. Is there a scientific answer for that?

These days, the leading international scientist on issues like this is a guy named “Google.” His reason was that all cars can’t immediately begin driving once a light turns green.

Then I read a comment from some guy in London who says that’s not true at all. Cars in London all begin moving as soon as lights turn green.

(But what do they know? They drive on the wrong side of the street.)

The answer I’ve formulated is peo-

THE READER.

ple don’t pay attention at stoplights, which is why I often swear when I get stuck at the same stoplight three different times.

The depth of my research didn’t stop there. I learned that in Rockville, Maryland, I would have just been arrested on a misdemeanor charge, where it is illegal to swear in your car. That nugget, along with a couple of others, came from a website called DMV.org, which has absolutely no relationship to the actual DMV, because we know they have no sense of humor.

I learned that, in my home state of Alabama, it is illegal to drive blindfolded. (Could have fooled me.)

In Alaska, you can’t tie a dog or a cat to your roof rack. (Probably because it’s too cold there.)

In Dublin, Ga., you can’t drive your car through a playground.

(That would solve the nation’s bully problem.)

In Reno, Nevada, it is illegal to place a chair or bench in the middle of the road. (Sofas are OK.) And in Houston, Texas, you’d best drive like you’re trying to get your license when the next round of police grants are issued.

Email jonathan@theleadernews.com

Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com

Concern about expansion of W. 20th St.

Patience is key with NW Mall Drive on the U.S. 290 feeder road, near the Loop 610 interchange – if you dare – to take on the traffic, noise and construction.

You’ll see a sign at the Northwest Mall that advertises they’re still open.

It’s true, but one of Houston’s oldest malls has seen better days.

A google search on “Houston Northwest Mall” came up with the result, “deadmalls. com” But the demise of this mall has been greatly exaggerated. It isn’t dead, it’s just waiting for its resurgence.

While construction seems to be overwhelming at times, it’s worth a trip to the mall regardless.

There are certainly some hidden treasures – the Thompson’s Antique Center (my fiancee would probably have a wedding registry from there, if that were an option), the Southern Apache Museum (where owner Chance Landry is an excellent curator of history and culture), the Express Theatre and a wide variety of choices at the food court.

The construction has caused headaches for lots of us, and its widely expected that the mall will be renovated and developed after the construction is complete.

Levcor, Northwest Mall’s owner, has been mum about the mall, declining to comment.

That’s understandable.

They’re shrewd business people, and if their track record around Houston is any indication, there will be a development that will add to the positive growth of the community.

Just thinking about the different things that could appear there would send a Facebook thread into a frenzy.

An HEB, a dine, drink & watch movie theater, a Target. The list is endless.

Obviously, I’m not an expert on mall plan-

MICHAEL SUDHALTER Editor

ning, but I have a suggestion for the ownership. Let’s give it a retro theme.

I’ve reached this conclusion based on two facts: In a recent Facebook post on the Oak Forest Homeowners Association, I asked readers to share their memories of the mall.

Most of them were based around their parttime jobs and stores they enjoyed visiting.

It was nostalgic.

Now, there are elements of 1985 that we’d like to leave in the past, such as pagers, pay phones and that rattail you thought was so cool during your sophomore year.

But it would be an interesting theme, and one that would be a nod to the community that grew up in that mall.

I also drew the idea from modern ballparks (Camden Yards in Baltimore) and modern schools (Reagan High in the Heights) with a retro theme. Those retro themes were 1950s, but let’s be honest, the 80s are becoming more retro as each day passes.

Construction is never fun, for motorists or residents, but the future is bright.

Just like the 80s hair band Nelson sang “after the rain, you’ll see the sun appear.”

But we all know the value of rain in building an even brighter future.

Email michael@theleadernews.com

Dear Editor: This is absurd. Traffic is bad on 610, so let’s plow through a neighborhood to put a bandaid on the gut shot of poor highway planning? That’s what this boils down to. I’m certainly not a NIMBY, but this is throwing good money after bad. Why don’t you start with maintaining 20th, and controlling traffic to the point that pedestrians aren’t terrified to use the expensive bike trails you installed? Then every hot shot rig and FedEx truck would come face to face with the larger issue at hand. And I’m not Mr. Pub-Trans either, but talk about avoiding that issue. Hell, let’s widen every Houston street with similar demo and avoid that issue all together.

T. Jones Dear Editor: Why would increasing traffic through a school zone be considered a good thing?

Bayou City Bagels

Waltrip Basketball players read to Oak Forest Elementary students

Traffic is bad on 610, so let’s plow through a neighborhood to put a bandaid on the gut shot of poor highway planning?

From Facebook: Great job to the varsity basketball players and Coach Kelly. Way to give back to the community!

Jessica Alvardo Coakley

Reagan auto program drives success

Dear Editor: Congratulations Noel! You were a wonderful student in third grade at Burbank Elementary and see that your passion for learning continues. I am very proud of you.

Lilly Rincon

Hamilton MS to pick a new mascot

Dear Editor: I think that we should be the Huskies because we are smart, fast, and we fight for what we want and Huskies do the same thing.

Litzy Corona

OUR STAFF

© Copyright 2014 McElvy Media LLC

Jonathan McElvy Publisher & President

Built by LEE BURGE, PUBLISHER FROM 1957-1969 TERRY BURGE, PUBLISHER FROM 1969-2012

3500 East T.C. Jester Blvd, Suite A P.O. Box 924487 Houston, TX 77292-4487 Phone: (713) 686-8494 Fax (713) 686-0970 NEWS DEADLINE: Noon on Mondays CLASSIFIED WORD AD DEADLINE: 5 p.m. Tuesday RETAIL AD DEADLINE: Noon on Mondays

jonathan@theleadernews.com

Frank Vasquez

Michael Sudhalter

Jane Broyles

Associate Publisher frank@theleadernews.com

Editor michael@theleadernews.com

Business Manager biz@theleadernews.com

Carolyn Moore

Ivee Sauls

Steve Forsythe

Outside Sales Executive

Outside Sales Executive

Outside Sales Executive

Jeanette Black Inside Sales Executive

Myra Schelling Inside Sales Executive

Jake Dukate

Lucy Dukate

Graphics Manager

Sales Coordinator

ads@theleadernews.com

lucy@theleadernews.com

Colleges in a race to replicate the Longhorn sponsor boom My fellow Longhorns, and you Aggies, Cougars, Owls, Spiders (U. of Richmond) and anyone else who attended an institution of higher learning – I don’t think the University of Phoenix counts – stand by for the blitz, and I’m not talking football. Well, in a way I am. The new athletic director at The University of Texas at Austin, Travis County & NFL Lite, aka UT, has announced that the school’s “brand” is up for sale.

The new AD, Steve Patterson, wants to spread the school’s name, colors and reputation far and wide – for a price. He’s looking at endorsements, more ads in sporting facilities and more corporate sponsors. He is thinking of the Longhorns playing a football game in Mexico City, going international, finding at least three fans who can receive the Longhorn Network. (The Longhorn Network’s rollout must have been handled by the same wizards who brought us the opening of Obamacare.)

“Do I think we’re maxed out?

Absolutely not,” said Patterson. “College athletics is a largely underleveraged asset.

The potential here is even big-

LYNN ASHBY Columnist

ger than I expected.”

Not maxed out? UT Inc. is certainly the current maximum. Texas led the nation last year with $165.7 million in athletics revenue, a whopping $22.3 million ahead of secondplace Alabama. A major source is the corporate sponsorship, which currently includes Nike USA, Coca-Cola and Joe Jamail. It is interesting that one of the sponsors is Gatorade which was invented in 1965 by researchers at the University of Florida College of Medicine for the football team, the Florida Gators. Today that university receives 20 percent share of Gatorade royalties. As of 2009, it came to more than $150 million, approximately $12 million per year. Hey, UT researchers, how about Burnt Oranges and Bevo Beef ?

The school initially was going to limit the sponsors to six, starting at around $300,000 each per year. But it quickly discovered that lots of deep pockets wanted in on the action, so today the number is 20 and growing. Business profs call this “maximizing the marketplace.” Others might call it “greed.” Patterson said he’s not simply selling the UT football or basketball teams. He’s selling everything about being a Longhorn. Right you are.

Barnes & Noble would like to donate $300,000 to get some street cred with the UT Library Science Dept. Go ask Hearst and Fox for $300,000 each so the Dept. of Kommunications & Speeling Gud can endow a journalism chair. They’d like a desk, too.

On the other hand, athletics, not academics, is where the fame lies. T. Boone Pickens has given the athletic department at his alma mater, Oklahoma State U., more than $400 million, the largest donation to a university’s athletic program in collegiate history.

At halftime during a game at (what else?) T. Boone Pickens Stadium, he was asked by a TV reporter, on the air, why

he hadn’t given some money to, for example, the school’s English Department. “Because if I had given that money to the English Department you wouldn’t be interviewing me now.”

Back at the Forty Acres, during sporting events orange bloods needed a suite or to know someone who had one to start hitting the liquor when the Horns were behind four touchdowns and three field goals. But now UT has found yet another way to turn a buck.

It has decided to sell booze at its athletic events. (They’d probably do a lot better to copy Colorado and Washington State’s examples and sell weed.) This bar-keeping is not a bad idea since one of the department’s new corporate sponsors is MillerCoors. Then there is the new head football coach who is named Charlie Strong, so Austin has T-shirts reading “We are Texas, We are TEXAS STRONG, We are Texas StrongHorns!!” And more marketing is on the way. Look for the Darrell K. Royal-Memorial Stadium to be called the Ty-D Bowl. Athletes’ uniforms will sport sponsors’ patches like NASCAR drivers. “Stu-

dents, today we are taking up the next generation of iPods, but first this word from Apple.”

We’ll see coin-operated desks.

Just call it the Comcast Power Tower with antenna sticking upwards 100 feet, and instead of the Tower lighting up orange after a victory, the bells will ring out theme songs from Concast/NBC’s new comedy series. The last words in “The Eyes of Texas” will be slightly changed to “till Buick blows its horn.” “This commencement our speaker is Bose. Surround your sound with Bose.” Oh, yes, and tuition will still go up.

At this point you may be thinking about longhorning in on this bonanza. Don’t, because UT has always protected its brand. A few years ago the City of Fort Worth came up with a new logo: the burnt orange silhouette of a longhorn’s face and horns.

It didn’t last long. The best school-brand flap came when the Seattle Seahawks launched a unique campaign to woo their fans with the catchy title, the 12th Man. Well, the Aggies who can grow moss on a rolling stone, didn’t just fall off the turnip truck, although if they did you can bet they would be

world-class turnips. They went to court. The Seahawks paid Texas A&M $100,000 and another $5,000 annual licensing fee for five years. In 2011 the Seahawks renewed the agreement for another five years, taking the deal through 2016.

A lousy $100,000? Johnny Football spills that much.

A Houston Chronicle columnist, Richard Justice, once wrote: “Texas is divided into two kinds of people: those who went to UT and those who wish they had.” That is undoubtedly true, but while Patterson is looking into new marketing, other schools are looking at Patterson. Other colleges may soon be following his lead.

SMU has a slam-dunk on the Ford Mustang. Yale has a lock on locks. Horned Frogs? Good luck, but Rice is a natural for Uncle Ben. Finally, it isn’t clear whether anyone has had the nerve to tell Bevo there will be more branding.

Ashby is burnt orange at ashby2@comcast.net

Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Page 5A

Spring shin-digs happening in spades

By Molly Sue McGillicutty Greetings, spring breakers! In case you’ve got some time off in the coming weeks, I’ve compiled a list of some fun and pet-centered philanthropic events coming up in our area. The sun is shining, the birds are singing and there’s never been a better time to get out in our fair city and help some animals in need.

First up: I hope you’re planning to pound the pavement for pets and run the Humane Society’s 33rd annual Fun Run, 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 23.

The race is in downtown Houston, beginning at Sam Houston Park (1100 Bagby St.) The Fun Run boasts both one mile competitive and noncompetitive runs.

Leashed and well-behaved pets are welcome. Go to www.houstonhumane.org for more information.

Join the good folks at K-9 Angels Rescue for their annual Spring Fling,

held this year from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, at Cottonwood (3422 N. Shepherd). Bring your pups along to join in the fun. There will be some really fun raffle prizes, such as: Tempur-Pedic Cloud Mattress Supreme Set, a fully-stocked wine fridge, two nights at Deer Ridge Cottage in Fredericksburg as well as some great silent auction prizes. Good food, cold drinks, dogs allowed? Give me one good reason NOT to go to this event!

Go to: www.facebook.com/k9angels rescue to learn more about this event.

Friends For Life is looking forward to their adoption spectacular at Happy Fatz Cafe (3510 White Oak Dr.) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 29.

Ten of Friends For Life’s most adoptable (and possibly a little ‘fatz’...er, fluffy) kitties will be on hand for petting, worshiping and adopting too, of course.

Something else exciting about this event?

The good people at Happy Fatz Cafe are donating 10 percent of their sales from this event to Friends For Life! So, eat-up, drink-up and adopt-up your new friend for life. Go to www.adoptfriends4life.org to learn more.

If you’re still looking for the pet of your dreams, stop by Natural Pawz (514 W. 19th St.) from noon until 3 p.m. on Sat-

Would You Wait a Lifetime To Brush Your Teeth?

urday, March 29, and see what adoptable sweeties Scout’s Honor Rescue has to show off. If you don’t have luck there, consider making the trek to The Woodland’s Natural Pawz location (1580 Lake Woodlands Dr.) to see if the mutt of your dreams is there. Go to: www.scoutshonor. org for more information.

MARCH IS YOUR PET’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH Did you know? Bacteria from peridontal disease can spread through the bloodstream and damage internal organs (hearts, kidney, etc.)

Choose Me

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

During the month of March, receive a special 10% savings on all dental cleanings and supplies Chirp, chirp! Meet Cricket, a 7-year-old “Tortie” (short for tortoiseshell, in respect to her markings) girl who rules the roost at Friends For Life. Cricket is friendly, an absolute motorboat in the purring department, loves to be held and is about as playful as they come. Wouldn’t this be the best kind of bug to find in your home? To learn more, go to: www.adoptfriends4life.org.

��������� ������������� � � �� �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7151 Fairbanks N. Houston (1 mile North of HWY 290)

(713)-937-7274

Robinson named OFE’s teacher of the year

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

When second year Oak Forest Elementary kindergarten teacher Lacy Robinson went to check her school mailbox on a recent morning, she saw Principal Jenny Thomas running towards her. Any fears Robinson might have had were put to rest immediately.

First she told Robinson that she’d been named Oak Forest’s Teacher of the Year. And second, Thomas asked her if she would accept the honor.

“I’m pretty sure I jumped up and down at that point, gave her a huge hug, and said yes,” said Robinson.

While it’s obvious that Robinson has found her groove, being a teacher was not a lifelong goal.

“I suppose most teachers have teachers in their family or have always wanted to teach, but my story is a little different,” said Robinson. She started the University of Houston as undecided because nothing

yet had sparked her interest.

That is until she joined a club called ‘Buddies’ that allowed college students to mentor atrisk elementary age students.

“Being able to visit the schools, watching the teachers in their element, and seeing what a difference they were making in the students’ lives was inspiring,” said Robinson.

“My experience in that program is what really shaped my career aspirations.”

After graduation, and spending one year as a student teacher, Robinson moved on to lead a kindergarten class of her own. She says that five and six year olds are extremely entertaining. “The thing that I enjoy most is just having a meaningful conversation with them about anything, academically or otherwise,” she said. “Teachers always say, ‘we could write a book.’”

Principal Thomas said that teachers nominate their peers in the first round of selection for the teacher of the year. In the second round, teachers

Lacy Robinson

vote on a list of nominees.

“The process is an honor because you’re chosen by your peers,” said Thomas. “Mrs. Robinson is relatively new to the profession but you’d never know it when you walk in her room.”

Robinson just relishes helping each student see the best in themselves. “At the end of the day, I want them to walk out of the door feeling confident in

the person that they are,” said Robinson. “I love getting to be a part of that process.”

The challenge, according to Robinson, is fitting it all in.

“There is so much that I want to do with my students each year, and it can be difficult getting to it all. So this year, my motto was ‘Quality, not quantity.’ It’s more rewarding when the students really take something away from each lesson.”

At the end of the school year, Robinson will have more time to enjoy her favorite leisure activities, like fishing, paddle boarding, and swimming. But come fall, she’ll be ready for a new batch of students.

“She is a natural teacher,” said Thomas. “Lacy has the kind of passion, commitment, and creativity that make her an asset to our campus.”

If your Leader area school has named a teacher of the year, we’d like to spotlight him or her. Please e-mail betsy@theleadernews. com.

WHY YOUR CHILD’S TEETH ARE IMPORTANT Chase Baker, D.D.S.

I

am often asked why it’s a big deal if a child gets a cavity on a baby tooth or loses that tooth early, since it’s going to fall out anyway. It’s actually extremely important that a child maintain their primary dentition for as long as possible for many reasons.

Some of these are obvious, and some not so obvious.

To begin with, a full complement of teeth will allow a child to eat properly, which will provide them with the nutrients for all of the growing that they are doing. Of course, cavities are painful and will interfere with chewing function. They will also help them to speak properly, a difficult thing to do when missing teeth.

And now, the not so obvious...primary teeth help to shape a child’s face during their growth. Without their teeth in place, the jaws can have a poor growth pattern affecting their overall appearance. Also, primary teeth provide a lead for the permanent teeth to follow. When the baby tooth is lost too soon, the adult tooth can have trouble erupting into its proper position. This causes many problems with crowding as the permanent teeth come into place.

Proper homecare and regular trips to your dentist will help to be certain your child’s teeth are in good shape. Your child should be seen by their dentist every six months starting by their first birthday to keep them in optimal health.

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.

Masters resigns as Greater Heights Super Neighborhood President Greater Heights Super Neighborhood Council president Blake Masters resigned his position on Tuesday night to devote more time to his company, Delta Composites LLC. Masters, who will remain on

the council, has moved the Super Neighborhood into a more pro-active direction, in which they’ll work directly with city representatives.

The Council will hold elections next month for its next president.

HPD Sgt. Frank Escobedo answers questions at the monthly Positive Interaction Program (PIP) meeting on Tuesday night at HPD’s North Command center. (Photo by Michael Sudhalter)

Monthly HPD community meetings inform citizens

By Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

Garden Oaks resident Carl Waters has been the chairperson of the Houston Police Department’s North Division Community Positive Interaction Program (PIP) for the past 18 years.

“You get different bits of information,” Waters said. “People can see what’s going on in their neighborhood.”

Waters works closely with HPD Sgt. Frank Escobedo on coordinating the agenda for the meetings, which are held the third Tuesday of each month at HPD’s North Command Center, 9455 W. Montgomery.

“It’s a way of communicating with our communities and neighborhoods,” Escobedo said. “We provide them with crime statistics and ask if there are any issues of concern in their neighborhoods.”

HPD has been hosting PIP meetings all over the city since

1983.

Escobedo encourages civic clubs to send a representative to the meeting, so they can share the information with their neighbors.

The top concerns, Escobedo said, are burglary of motor vehicles (the #1 crime in the city), home burglaries, narcotics and heavy trash that’s placed in front of the street.

“Burglaries of Motor Vehicles are the #1 crime — it’s also the most preventable crime,” Escobedo said.

Each meeting has a different guest speaker. On Tuesday, it was District Clerk Chris Daniel, who shared with the audience that his office now is issuing passports. The district clerk’s office is also doing free background checks for Harris County, which can serve as a preliminary to a national background check.

Citizens have the opportunity to ask Escobedo questions on any public safety topic.

FREEDOM FROM

JOINT PAIN Stop suffering from hip or knee pain.

Staying active is key to staying healthy. That’s why at Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital, affiliated joint specialists use the most advanced treatments to get you on the path to the life you want to live, including minimally invasive surgical options. And for the second time, our hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for our knee replacement and hip replacement surgery.

Call 713.222.CARE (2273) or visit memorialhermann.org/northwest to learn more.

ADVANCING HEALTH

Page 6A • Saturday, March 22, 2014

Stations of the Cross...

Parishioners of area Reformed Episcopal churches will gather at Holy Trinity Anglican, 211 Byrne, at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday 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 more information. (Submitted photo)

Leader Looking Back...

Erica , left, and Mark Raggett started A 2nd Cup to raise money and awareness in the fight against human trafficking.

(Photo by Michael Sudhalter)

A cup of coffee and a cause A 2nd Cup re-opens after renovations

By Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

Erica and Mark Raggett combined their love for coffee with an important cause of raising awareness for the problem of human trafficking.

The Houston couple opened A 2nd Cup, a 501(c)3 non-profit coffee shop, on Tuesday evenings and Sundays at The Vineyard Church, 1035 E. 11th St. in the

Heights.

But due to renovations at the church over the past nine months, the Raggetts had to take their operation on the road.

They served coffee at special events throughout the city.

Last Sunday, the Raggetts resumed selling coffee at The Vineyard. It is a separate charity from the church, but the relationship is mutually beneficial.

Erika learned about the problem of human trafficking through a documentary about the issue that is considered to be “modern day slavery.”

Human trafficking has caught the attention of community leaders, most notably

Mayor Annise Parker, who named a commission in 2012 to discuss solutions to end the problem.

Erika was previously a teacher at YES Prep, but has since decided to focus all of her attention on the coffee shop/charity.

Mark teaches at Episcopal High in Bellaire.

In addition to the coffee, the Vineyard Church is among the hosts of Houston FotoFest, with a theme of “Unity in Diversity‚“ The opening reception will be held between 3 to 7 p.m. on March 22. The exhibit runs through April 27.

NAM’s Cafe, meals to seniors March marks the one-year anniversary of the 60+ Cafe at Northwest Assistance Ministries, and seniors who haven’t yet checked it out are warmly encouraged to do so.

The 60+ Cafe opened in March 2013 and offers a free, hot lunch to Harris County residents who are 60 years of age or older, regardless of income. Along with providing a nutritious meal, the 60+ Cafe serves as a gathering place and a great way for seniors to meet new friends or catch up with those they’ve known for years.

The cafe is open from 11:30

a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

There is no charge, but reservations are required two business days in advance by calling 281-885-4619. The cafe is located in NAM’s main building at 15555 Kuykendahl Road in Houston (just south of FM 1960), and transportation is available for those who need it.

“This is a great opportunity for seniors to get out of the house and have some fun,” said Carole Little, President and CEO of NAM. “Who doesn’t like a free lunch? And while you’re here, you can check out

the fabulous variety of classes, trips, and other activities offered to seniors through our Fifty Plus program.”

The 60+ Cafe also offers occasional guest speakers, live music, holiday celebrations, and monthly birthday parties.

Past speakers have covered topics including crime prevention, gardening, and home organization, as well as a variety of health-related topics.

For more information or to make a reservation at the 60+ Cafe, please call 281-8854619. Information about other 50+ programs is available by calling 281-885-4601.

t BUBBLEFEST! r t

Pet Cremations

5500

20 Years Ago March 24, 1994

Black Middle School teachers win $1,500 grant for curriculum idea Teachers at Black Middle School recently won an IMPACT II Team Grant for $1,500 for their creative teaching idea, “It’s a Jungle Out Here.”

Florence Coleman, chairperson of Team 1, working with

Tina Edebor, Karen Fleegar, and Mary Eliza Lovett, developed the award-winning curriculum unit to help students understand the importance and contributions of rain forests to world ecology.

��������������������������� ������������������������������ ��������������� ������������������������������ ����������������� ������������ �������������

$

from up 281-741-8611

Caring & Professional est 2003 houstonpetcremationservices.com

AIKIDO & SELF DEFENSE

In Loving Memory Russell Ray Duran & Gary Ray Hamill

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

For the lamb in the mist of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.

Rev 7:16-17

������������

www.aikibudo-aikido.com

Chevrolet Commercial Vehicles

Trucks • Vans • Cars call Ken W. Johnson

713-580-1686

Passed away 2013

Irene Hamill Mother and wife

k m

��������������� ��������� We will be Celebrating our

60th Opening Day

of Spring Baseball & Softball on March 29, 2014.

t

iO p Vineyard Church of Houston 1035 E. 11th Street, Houston, TX 77009 713.869.9070 Sunday morning services 10 & 11:30am houstonvineyard.org/bubblefest

Parade begins from Waltrip High School at 9:00. Opening Ceremonies begin at 9:45.

Carnival and prizes for kids immediately after Opening Ceremony.

Games start at 12:00!!

For more information visit us at

www.ODCsports.com

or email us oaksdadsclub@gmail.com

Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Page 7A

FROM THE PEWS. 429 Walk For Water at T.C. Jester Park The 429, 3745 N.Shepherd, will host its 3rd Annual Walk for Water at T.C. Jester Park, at 8 a.m. March 22. Proceeds from the walk helps provide funding that will allow water wells to be built to give clean water around the world.

For information or to register, e-mail waterproject@the429. com.

Cruisin’ for Christ Car Show at St. Stephen’s The 2014 Cruisin’ for Christ Car Show will be at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church, 2003 W. 43rd St., from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. March 22, in the Education Bldg. lot. Admission is free. There will be special activities for children and Boy Scout Troop 604 will sell barbeque lunches for $5.

Registration is now open for Johnson Memorial School, a preschool for 3 and 4 year olds, for the 2014-2015 school year. Classes are held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, September through May. Call the church office or e-mail jms@stsumc.org to register.

For information call 713686-8241 or www.stsumc.org.

Fundraiser and silent auction at St. James ELCA The St. James Family Life Center of St. James Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1602 W. 43rd St., will hold its second annual Fundraiser and Silent Auction from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

March 22, to raise funds for its various educational programs.

The event will begin with a barbecue dinner from 6:307:30 p.m., followed by the silent auction. Tickets for the dinner are $15 each or two for $25. Donations and sponsorship opportunities are also being accepted by calling the

church office.

The Family Life Center began its 12 week reading tutoring program at Frank Black Middle School the first week of February. Ongoing classes at the Church are ESL computerbased class each Wednesday.

Upcoming events will be the Annual Easter “Egg”stravaganza Easter egg hunt from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 19, and 11 a.m. Easter Sunday following the service.

For information call 713686-1577.

Supper and book study at St. Andrew’s St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1819 Heights Blvd., will observe Lent with two programs that offer both learning and fellowship.

Wednesday Lenten suppers will be held at 6:30-8 p.m.

March 26, April 2 and April 9, in the parish hall. The supper will be followed by an informative presentation. Topics include liturgical movement with Ad Deum Dance Company, a look at outreach ministries in the area, an Easter craft, and a thought-provoking playlet.

Exploring The Book of Common Prayer study will be held 9:30 a.m. in the parish library Sundays through April 6.

For information, visit www. saecheights.org or call 713861-5596.

St. Matthew’s Garden Club to host a plant swap The St. Matthew’s Garden Club will meet at 9:30 a.m.

March 27. The program will be a plant swap. Members and guests are asked to bring plants to share and swap with others. Refreshments will be served.

Maundy Service will be held 7 p.m. April 17. Easter Sunday services will be held at 7 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. April 20.

The traditional Easter Egg Hunt for the younger children will take place in the courtyard at 10 a.m. April 19. All children are welcome to come and hunt eggs, win prizes and share in the food and fellowship.

The Lenten Study continues at 6 p.m. each Wednesday evening, with a light meal, along with prayer and Holy Communion. Those wishing to share the meal should call the church office to assure proper food preparation.

St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church is located at 4300 N. Shepherd Dr. Call 713-6970671 or e-mail www.stmatthewsmethodist.org for information.

Many spring activities at Lazybrook Baptist There will be a Missions Yard Sale from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

March 29, at Lazybrook Baptist Church, 1822 W. 18th St. Gently worn clothes, shoes, household items and furniture donations are being accepted after worship services March 23 through 3 p.m. March 28.

Volunteers are also needed. A sign-up sheet is posted in the fellowship hall.

The Shadow of Easter performance will be at 6 p.m. April 13 and April 18 (Dinner Theater). Volunteers are needed for actors, readers, stage hands, sounds and lights, set construction, greeters, cooks and waiters (for the dinner theater).

E-mail Joey Dean at cupofjoe04@gmail.com for information or to sign up.

5th Sunday Singing at Oak Forest Baptist Oak Forest Baptist Church, 1700 W. 43rd St., welcomes the community to the 5th Sunday Singing at 4:15 p.m. March 30. Older and newer hymns will be sung. A soloist from the church will also perform.

THE OBITUARIES. Bobby Clay Adams, 65, born Feb. 15, 1949, died March 11.

Jesse D. Alva, 86, born May

26, 1927, died March 13. Alva served his country proudly during World War ll. A graveside service in Houston National Cemetery will be announced in the future.

Thomas John Hatala, 63, born June 8, 1950, died March 9.

Hatala was employed with the Houston Independent School District as a Physical Education teacher for 38 years. He was an enthusiastic golfer and a member at the former Inwood Forest Golf and Country Club. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Mary; son David Hatala, daughter Kaelen Enderby, sisters Susan Ferretti and Charlotte Hatala, and one grandchild. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Sharon Elaine Head, 69,

born Aug. 12, 1944, died March 14.

chez, Karen Urcuyo and Dwayne Padron, and five grandchildren.

Bernadette “Bobbye” Janak Nunley, 81, born Feb.

David Michael Vaeza, 63, born July 29, 1950 in Houston, died March 15. Vaeza served the city of Houston as a Police Officer for 20 years and retired as a Sergeant. He is survived by his loving children Jennifer Vaeza, Megan Vaeza and Michael Vaeza, siblings Augustus Vaeza Jr., Irene Fraga, Katherine Vaeza, Stephen B. Vaeza, Joseph Anthony Vaeza and one grandson.

1, 1933 in Hallettsville, died March 15. She was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, the Catholic Daughters of America-Court #1750, Professional Secretaries International and the St. Cecilia choir. Nunley was employed with Robishaw Engineering Company, where she was an administrative assistant for 33 years. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, G. Ray Nunley. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church or the Catholic Daughters of AmericaCourt #1750.

Joe A. Padron Jr., 74, born March 1, 1940, died March 12.

Padron served in the ministry as a Royal Ranger Commander and served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. He is survived by his three children Janette San-

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

Grace United Methodist Church “The Heart of the Heights”

1245 Heights Blvd.

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

713 862-8883

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

1822 W. 18

th

www.gethsemanelutheran.org

Ministering to the Oak Forest Community since 1948 Reverend Noelie Day

(713) 682-2556

1576 Chantilly @ Piney Woods

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

1. Boring routine 4. Back talk 8. Emerald Isle 10. Snow leopard 11. 1/20 of an ancient shekel 13. Language of Apia 14. Relating to NH2 15. British Air Aces 16. Woman (French) 17. Cheese skins 18. Deafening noise 19. Cheeky talk 20. Early photograph 24. Basics 25. 007’s Flemming 26. Photograph (slang) 27. Male sheep

Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship10:45 AM

Member of MANNA

First Baptist Church Heights Sunday School 9:30 am Sunday Worship 10:30am Wednesday Prayer Meeting 6:00pm

Nursery Provided 713-861-3102 201 E. 9th St. • www.fbcheights.org Larry Young, Pastor

Pastor Don Joseph Member of MANNA Visit us on FaceBook www.oakscchouston.org

CHARITY

THE LOVE DRIVEN CHURCH ��������������������������������� �������������������������������� ��������������������������������������� �������

832-767-0165 2800 Antoine Dr. Suite 2844 www.charitytldc.org

Weekly Sunday Services • Bible Study: 9:15 a.m.

• Morning:10:30 a.m.

• Evening: 4:15 p.m.

1700 West 43 at Rosslyn 713-682-4942 rd

MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

I

THE APPENDIX

f you studied human anatomy twenty or thirty years ago, you were probably taught that the appendix (or vermiform appendix—the small wormlike pouch that hangs from the cecum of the large intestine), was a useless structure, perhaps some vestigial organ that served a purpose in our long-distant past. I distinctly remember an argument some thirty years ago between my father (who argued that it must have some purpose) and my brother (who was in his rst or second year of medical school, and who argued that it had none that could be discerned). My father’s argument was based on his belief that God would not have created something without a purpose. He didn’t necessarily know what the purpose was, but there must be one.

People do just ne without one, my brother rejoined, and he asked, furthermore, what is the purpose of eyebrows? To keep sweat from getting in your eyes was my father’s answer, and wouldn’t we look pretty strange without eyebrows? Medical science now believes that the appendix is a repository for the good bacteria that colonize our intestines and which aid in all sorts of important functions, from digestion to our immune system. So score one for Dad, and the view that to everything under heaven there is indeed apurpose. We may not always know that purpose but should trust to Providence that there is one.

“The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.”

2 Corinthians 3:3

Join us for Services in English or Spanish

��������������������������������

��������������������������� ������������������������������� � � �� � � � � � � � � � �

1. Respect 2. Azotemia 3. Exhausting 4. Accumulation 5. Lack of moral standards in a society 6. A rascal 7. X100 = 1 tala 9. River of Haikou, China 10. Lout 12. Stockings 13. Capital of Chile 15. Spanish for river 18. 12th month (abbr.)

19. Skilled nurse 21. Unit of precipitation 22. Corpuscle count (abbr.)

23. Sweet potato 26. God of elds & woods 27. Dream sleep 28. Polish or stroke 29. Kilo yard (abbr.)

30. Member of U.S. Navy 31. Express pleasure 32. Written acknowledment (abbr.)

33. Neptune’s closest satellite 34. O’Neill play “The ____ Cometh” 35. Homegrown 36. Goalkeeper 37. __ Island, U.S. State 40. Far East nursemaid 41. Food grain 44. 2 stripe rank (abbr.)

Candlelight Church of Christ

��������������������������

������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������

DOWN

Pastor – Dr. Richard Walters

������������� ������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������

28. Norse sea goddess 29. Small cask 30. Ch. Osgood hosts 37. Confederate soldier 38. Radioactivity unit 39. Chocolate tree 40. Express surprise 41. Express delight 42. Mary mourning Jesus 43. 18th century indoor cap 45. Thanjavur University 46. Skilled 47. Hindu mother goddess 48. Follow by one’s foot 49. Born of

SUDOKO

(Disciples of Christ)

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

Sunday School - 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Nursery Provided

ACROSS

1216 Bethlehem at Ella Blvd.

(713) 688-7761

Reverend John Cain, Pastor

Oaks Presbyterian Church

Solutions in this issue’s classsied section.

OAKS CHRISTIAN CHURCH

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

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.

THE PUZZLES.

GUIDE

4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227

www.gospeltruthchurch.org

Bubblefest! children’s event at The Vineyard The Vineyard Church of Houston, 1035 E. 11th St., will

Meryl G. York, 85, born June 24, 1928 in San Antonio, died March 10. She was employed for many years as an executive secretary. York is survived by her daughter, Linda, six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, three step grandchildren, and six step great-grandchildren.

GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH

1624 W 34th • 713-686-7689

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.

Mary K. Waldo, 87, born Nov. 11, 1926, died March 9.

CHURCH Gospel Truth Church

Call 713-682-4942 or visit www.oakforestbaptistnhca.org for information.

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

Sunday Worship 10am & 5pm Sunday Bible Classes 9am Wednesday Bible Study 7pm

4215 Watonga Blvd. • 713-681-9365 Houston, TX 77092

Page 8A • Saturday, March 22, 2014

LHN teacher was named finalist for state award

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

When Lutheran High North’s Spanish teacher Diane White was nominated by Principal Dallas Lusk as a nominee for the Outstanding Educator of the Texas District - Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, she was very honored. That honor grew exponentially when she was selected as one of four finalists out of more than 2,000 educators.

But the designation, which recognizes White’s concern for students as well as her church and community work, is just the icing on the cake for an educator who truly loves her job, and the language she teaches.

Growing up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, White said she wanted to do something different.

“There weren’t a lot of ethnicities there,” she said. “I wanted to communicate in a

different language.”

White had a great Spanish teacher in high school and on a sabbatical from college at Concordia University, she worked as a nanny for a family in Vitoria, Spain with five children under the age of 5. Only Spanish was spoken.

When she returned to the U.S. and got her teaching certification, she received a call from the Lutheran church regarding a position at Our Savior Lutheran, 5000 W. Tidwell Rd. She taught there for six years, starting the K-8 Spanish program, and also pursued a Masters in second language education from the University of Houston.

White met her husband Adam White at Our Savior Lutheran and had a baby. Her father-in-law is Pastor Laurence White. Adam is a film editor with Adam White Productions.

While staying home with her son, White was offered the op-

and took a chance. instruments & techniques Now full time, White teach“One of Houston’s Top Dentists” es Spanish 1-4, which means — HTexas Magazine 2004-2014 she sees 9th through 12th ���������������������������� NEW PATIENT SPECIAL grade students. She likes that Exam, X-Ray & Cleaning $ there is a combination of ages Regularly $100 in each level and said that it’s an eclectic mix of kids in every class.” w w w. d r n a f t i s . c o m Class size varies from five to CARE CREDIT 713-682-7939 20 students and while many of 1214 W 43rd Ste 300 her pupils from Hispanic back- Ad # 29672 grounds have good speaking ability, they often need work InvestInvest in Your Future on writing and reading the lanin Your Future Through America’s Past Through America’s Past guage. Kids aren’t just learning Spanish from White either.

“I like that in a Lutheran school we incorporate God’s word into what we are doing,” she said. “It gives them a strong base.”

She’s been at the school for nine years and said she can’t believe how the time has flown.

“I really enjoy teaching high school kids,” said White.

“There’s something excitAuthorized Dealer : PCGS ing happening at each grade Appraisals given for banks, estates, attorneys, insurance and individuals. level.”

70

Mathew Naftis, D.D.S.

Lutheran High North teacher Diane White was a finalist for Outstanding Educator of the Texas District-Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod.

(Submitted photo)

portunity to work part time at Lutheran High North, 1130 W. 34th St. Teaching high school really wasn’t on her radar but White knew some of the juniors and seniors from their time at Our Savior Lutheran

St. Rose of Lima Builds Gifts of Love

By Betsy Denson

U.S. Coins

Ad # 31448

Chris’

8435 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77024

Since 1978

Alterations & Dry Cleaning Mon-Fri 7 am - 6 pm, Sat 8 am - 3 pm

betsy@theleadernews.com

1765 W. 34th • 713-682-8785 # 36774 Ad

In honor of the Lenten Season, students from St. Rose of Lima Catholic School MiSSiOn (Middle School Service Organization), led by teacher Cathy Grahmann, decided to get creative and challenge classes to a Can-Struct-O-Rama project.

Each class brought in canned goods to support the St. Rose parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, who work in partnership with the Houston Food Bank to support local families throughout the year.

A food drive is nothing new to the students at St. Rose, but not one like this. Can-StructO-Rama offered the chance for students to use their creativity, not to mention feats of engineering mastery, to create structures of non-perishable food items.

The results were nothing less than amazing and heartfelt with sculptures that ranged from the Houston Sky-

COSMETIC DENTISTRY State-of-the art procedures,

PHONE 713-464-6868 FAX 713-464-7548 www.buyuscoins.com

Toll Free Number (888) 502-7755 Louisiana Office (337) 291-1191 Ad # 34143

Routine Male Cat Neuters

49

$

Aztec Storages West 34th St.

(Between Ella & T.C. Jester)

New Well Puppy & Kitten Exam

Lowest Prices in Town!

St. Rose of Lima Catholic School students competed in the MiSSiOn (Middle School Service Organization) with a creative can drive earlier this month. (Submitted photo)

line by eighth grade and Palm Leaves in honor of Lent by first grade. Other projects included St. Rose’s Prayer Well, End Hunger, See Ya Later Alligator, a rosary, an angel, our great state of Texas, and even an American Flag.

“We are proud to offer loving outreach to those in need as part of our Lenten sacrifice and throughout the school year,” said Principal Cathy Stephen. “With a focus on giv-

ing, our students learn about perspective-sharing and how other’s needs should come first.”

FIRST PLACE BEST IN SHOW OVERALL ENTRIES: FIRST GRADE Hosanna Palm Leaves Tied for Runner-up: SECOND GRADE End Hunger Message EIGHTH GRADE Skyline of Houston

It’s your moment.

Go get it.

No matter your passion, HCC can help turn your dreams into reality. If you’re just getting started, or starting a new chapter, we have the skills and knowledge that meet your goals and your schedule.

HCC has convenient locations and hundreds of programs and degree plans. What are you waiting for? Go get it.

It’s yours. Your journey begins here.

Register today at hccs.edu

Learn about our advanced manufacturing program, and many more at HCC.

No Deposit No Late Fees Controlled Access Lighted & Secure COVERED STORAGE NOW AVAILABLE 12'X30'

Call us and compare our prices to

ANY OTHER FACILITY! 713-681-1383

FREE

28

Years

of quality care for your family pets

Dog Rabies Vaccination

8

$

75*

* With Wellness Exam

Call About Cat Vaccines

Forest West Animal Clinic 5315 Antoine@ Pinemont

713-688-9625

Hours: M-F 7am-6:00pm Sat. 8am-12 Noon

FOOD, DRINK & ART Saturday, March 22, 2014 • Page 9A

SUPERPALOOZA at The Corkscrew

����� ������� ������

Thirsty Explorer The Corkscrew will hold “The mightiest Palooza in the history of the world and beyond!” from 2-6 p.m. on Saturday, March 29. The event will feature more than 100 of some of the best eclectic, esoteric family owned wineries that are out there.Thirsty The Corkscrew Exploreris going to have all the new beers with local ties, as well as some of Texas’ best, small batch whiskeys, vodkas, gins and other local hooch. At the Palooza, there will also be food, not bites and nibbles, but real food to help keep the liquor balance in check.

The Corkscrew went to the end of the world to find the best musical talent for SUPERPALOOZA and were lucky enough to get The Dead Rabbits, Houston’s premier Irish party band. The Corkscrew Owner Andrew Adams said, “If you don’t have fun listening to these guys, you don’t deserve ears.”

This is The Corkscrew’s sixth Palooza festival, so they know what they are doing.

Tickets are $49 and are available at The Corkscrew, at http://www.houstoncorkscrew.com/ or by calling at 713-230-8352. There are a limited number of tickets available, so be sure to get tickets before they sell out.

This promises to be the mother of all Paloozas.

Three Stars for Good Dog

The Heights’ Good Dog restaurant, a former food truck turned brick-and-mortar gourmet hot dog joint received a high honor from Houston Chronicle food critic, Alison Cook last week. Cook awarded the new restaurant a venerable three-stars with praise for their Ol’ Zapata dog, their

���������� �������������������

���������������� �������������������������

Award Winning Crawfish are here!

Karbach Brewing Co. will break ground Tuesday, March 25, for the $15 million expansion project on Karbach Street.

com/hypo. Witchcraft Tavern is located at 1221 West 11th Street.

Sip, Shop and Shine Event

Get in the fast lane with a wine tasting at Tommie Vaughn Ford on March 25, featuring a Sip, Shop and Shine event to enhance your experience in their new showroom.

Attendees will have the opportunity to browse Tommie Vaughn Ford’s King Ranch Saddle Shop while receiving a complimentary car shine and wine.

Stop by to sip on some wine with Heights-based Certified Wine Specialist and Sommelier Stephanie Earthman Baird.

Dubbed “The Wine Lady”, Stephanie will be on hand to showcase winning wines from this year’s Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition.

There is a great debate surrounding food and wine pairing, but the new dealership pairs nicely with wine too. Join the Sip, Shop and Shine event from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 25 at the new showroom at Tommie Vaughn Ford, located at 1201 N. Shepherd Dr.

Karbach Brewing Co. Breaking Ground on New Facility

After announcing expansion plans late last year, Karbach Brewing Co. is now ready to break ground on a facility that will allow the brewery to grow significantly. Brewmaster Eric Warner and crew are putting shovels to dirt on Tuesday, March 25 to launch the $15 million expansion project on Karbach Street.

Once completed, the brewery will be able to produce 60,000 barrels annually with room for future growth. In addition to more beer, Karbach also expects to add a projected 100 jobs to the Houston community. The new facility will house a 120 barrel Germandesigned brewhouse, tasting room, private event space and kitchen.

Karbach drew national attention in 2013 when cited by The New Yorker as the second fastest growing brewery in the nation.

The brewery produced nearly 19,000 barrels in 2013 and is on pace to hit 29,000 barrels this year.

Local demand has been

a strong driver in the quick growth with distribution limited to the greater Houston area, San Antonio and Austin.

Keeping with the spirit of supporting the local community, Houston-based firms Three Squared Design Group and Camden Construction Inc. will assist in the realization of the project.

This brewery expansion is expected to produce more beer and more cheer. For more information about Karbach Brewing Co. visit www. karbachbrewing.com.

Follow Ivee Sauls on Twitter @ThirstyExplorer.

To submit an event, email ivee@theleadernews.com.

SPECIALS

Weekdays 3-7pm

150 beers in house 16 craft beers on tap

1200 Durham Drive 713-864-5600 www.WoodrowsHeights.com

����������� Saturdays 5-8pm

Your choice

5022 Pinemont Dr. 832-804-9079

T-Bone $12 Filet $10

OFF with mention of ad

www.TheBrewHouseTexas.com

with your health in mind!

����������������������������������� ������������������������

3620 Katy Fwy., Ste E Houston, TX 77007 next to Pizza Hut

832-491-1131 4th

������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������� ������������������������������������ �����������������

housemade condiments, a “splendid fish and chips” and “well-considered sides” like house-cooked potato chips, a potato salad and even the slaw.

Sale Sucre’s New Lunch

Cheap eats are never a bad thing and French bistro, Sale Sucre is adding even more to the neighborhood with their recently launched $10 lunch promotion. Entrees like the French burger - with cheese, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, bearnaise sauce, pickles and lettuce — come with French fries and a soda, though those looking for something more authentic might enjoy the crepe au poulet with grilled chicken, tomatoes, cheese, onion and herbs Provencal. The special menu is available from 11 AM to 2:30 PM. Andy’s Cafe Remembrance

The family-run Andy’s Cafe remembers Jesse Morales, Jr., who passed away at age 64 on March 5. While he didn’t work regularly at the 24-hour Mexican restaurant, he was always on hand to help with carpentry work on the site when needed.

He will be missed.

New Tenant at 1500 Shepherd

Eater Houston reports that Il Mascalzone will be opening in the space vacated by Solea at 1500 Shepherd Drive sometime soon. It’s a United Kingdom-based chain with a full slate of Italian dishes, pizzas and wines on the menu.

No official opening date has been set.

����������������� �������������

I-10

Heights

The duo of restaurants at 1819 N. Shepherd - Hunky Dory and Foreign Correspondents - are making progress slowly but surely. Treadsack (the same restaurant group behind Down House and D&T Drive Inn) partner Chris Cusack gave some recent updates on the project: Demolition on the site is complete and he estimates two more rounds of permitting to go.

Cusack says they’ve designed the restaurant spaces around two “very large oak trees that are a minimum of 60 years old, but possibly much older,” and is very excited about the feel they will create. Foreign Correspondents chef and partner, PJ Stoops will be spending time in Thailand this summer exploring cooking techniques to utilize at the restaurant as well as sourcing china, furniture and fabrics. Meanwhile, the “heart of the Hunky Dory kitchen” will be a custom-built wood-burning oven that requires special installation and “focused attention” once it’s in place to balance the temperature. It’s still too far out to estimate an opening for either restaurant.

DART TOURNAMENT�

�������������������

Leader Nibbles Update on Hunky Dory and Foreign Correspondents

����������������������

��������������� ������������

Yale

Thirsty Explorer’s Witching Hour at Witchcraft The Thirsty Explorer is hosting Witching Hour for the Heights Young Professionals Organization (HYPO) at Witchcraft Tavern & Provision Co. on Thursday, March 27 from 6 to 8 p.m.

There will be an abundance of craft brews, exceptional foods and young professionals to network with. Be sure to show up early for Witching Hour for $2 off wine, draught and bottled beer and $1 off small plates and well drinks.

HYPO is a networking group for the young or young at heart part of the Great Heights Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, visit http://www.heightschamber.

�������������������������

610 Loop

18 & Over

FREE

Starter Kit With mention of this ad.

While supplies last.

1306 Omar

629 E. 8½th G IN D N PE

SE A LE

SE A LE

1531 Ashland

920 Redan

1446 Harvard

954 W. 41st

2407 Radcliffe

1246 Omar

6111 Maxie

17 Waugh # 206

1042 W. 15½th

G IN D N PE

622 E. 19th

G IN D N PE

G IN D N PE

903 Alexander

1033 E. 16th

1233 Yale

GREAT NEW HEIGHTS LISTINGS Choose A Knowledgeable Greenwood King Agent With Experience and Expertise Rich & Amanda Anhorn

Lauren Baker

Soo Kim

Caroline Schlemmer

Nancy Jane McMillan

Brigette & Chris Larson

Alex Berry

Emily Brandenberger

Krista Grissom

Shirley Foreman

Jennifer Gangeri

Karen Keplinger Stowers

Juli Moore

Sasha Van Nes

Catherine York

Brittany Zalman

Felicia Zbranek

Linda King & Julie Greenwood

GREENWOOD KING

1801 HEIGHTS BLVD. 713.864.0888 WWW.GREENWOODKING.COM