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Saturday, April 11, 2015 • Vol. 60 • No. 23

Arabic Immersion School divisive among some By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

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News of the new Arabic Immersion Magnet School in the Heights has created a storm among some who believe the school is part of a “top down education agenda‌stripping American children of a cohesive national identity.â€? Stop the Magnet, a group which seeks to strengthen and enforce immigration laws, sent out news of the school’s opening on its newsfeed and Twitter account where it was picked up by others in Texas. Magnet in this

Find more input from readers regarding the school on Page 3A case does not refer to schools but to incentives, like employment, that the group believes encourage illegal immigration. A similar blast went out last November when the HISD board approved the school and Breitbart News, a conservative news and opinion website, picked up on the story. According to a Stop the Magnet

board member, who lives near the school but who did not want to be identified by name, the group is also concerned with “citizen rights and sovereignty� and fears the school will be a security threat as well as an attack on American culture and values. Stop the Magnet claims that “HISD is accepting grants from the federal government for 12 million for magnet schools teaching STEM and language immersion,� and that the money obliges the district to teach a mandated curriculum. See Arabic, P. 2A

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Pinemont Park & Ride controversy ignites furor

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Heartbreak and victory in soccer It has been a month of victories and heartbreaks for several area schools and their soccer programs. The Scarborough High School Spartans defeated Stafford April 7 and continue its deep playoff run. Other teams, like the Waltrip High School girls soccer team, weren’t so succesful, but are already looking to next season.

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During a special meeting with the METRO Real Estate Committee, a small group of residents made sure their voices were heard. Here are some choice words shared among community members near the Pinemont Park & Ride.

For one Heights-area resident, participating in this year’s BP MS 150 isn’t just an act of kindness - it’s a tribute to the memory of his mother. Read about his contributions to the fight against multiple sclerosis in this week’s Our Health.

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“I think the same opportunities to have a home should be spread to people in need of this type of housing...�

“It’s possible a private business would result in jobs in close proximity for those that may need it most in the community right now.�

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Photo by Jonathan Garris Children return home from Clifton Middle School to nearby apartment complexes along Pinemont like Pineforest Park (pictured in background). A new proposed workforce housing project by the Houston Housing Authority at the site of the Pinemont Park & Ride has residents in communities like these on edge, regarding everything from drainage issues to overcrowding in local schools.

Proposed Houston Housing Authority apartment complex draws scrutiny from surrounding communities By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com Residents living around the vacant Pinemont Park and Ride say they will be gearing up for a long battle against a potential 300 unit apartment complex proposed by the Houston Housing Authority. The METRO Real Estate Committee held a meeting Monday afternoon at its main office on Main Street, attracting residents from areas like Forest West, Pinemont Park and Oak Forest to voice their concern over the potential low income apartments. The Leader previously reported in Nov. 2014 that the 14.8 acre property had been declared a “surplus property,� and residents voiced their desire to see the land bring in retail establishments. The Houston Housing Authority has since made a proposal to purchase the land for low income housing. While there aren’t specific

When it comes to the fate of the former site of the Pinemont Park & Ride, are there any clear winners? Or is this a “lose-lose-lose-loselose situation?�

Find Publisher Jonathan McElvy’s opinion on Page 3A

Heights artist channels cancer experience into art exhibition By Kim Hogstrom For The Leader

The INDEX.

plans yet for the community according to HHA representatives, HHA Chair Lance Gilliam said the organization would utilize eminent domain should the property be put on the market and sold publicly. Residents voiced their frustration and disappointment over what one resident called a “backroom deal,� citing potential crime and negative effects on surrounding property

The Houston Police Foundation stepped up in a big way this month by providing $1.5 million in equipment to better help Houston Police Department officers across the city. According to a press release, the equipment includes an augmented reality mapping system for helicopters, segways, hand-held imaging systems, horse trailers, bicycles, body armor and medical trauma kits, among other items. Executive Director Charlene Floyd said the organization has given more than $4.5 million since 2005, filling voids that department budgets might have difficulty filling. “About 94 percent of the budget the city allocates to the police department is used for officer salaries and administrative costs,� Floyd said. “That leaves about six percent to purchase equipment and new technology. It leaves a real void for buying the latest and greatest equipment.� That gap in funding is part of the reason the HPF was originally founded, Floyd said. The group has organized various fundraising events and galas over the years, including attracting over 700 people to a gala last year. The group also started an “Adopt a Horse� program three years ago, where citizens could sponsor a horse in the mounted patrol unit and have their name or the logo of a business placed on the horse’s stall. “In the span of about two and a half years, we got all of them sponsored, so much so that we have a waiting list,� Floyd said. The group is taking a similar approach to HPD’s K-9 units, inviting members of the community to sponsor one of 23 canines at $3,500 each. That amount takes care of the dog’s food and veterinarian bills for a year. To help raise awareness on the K-9 units’ work, the group will be hosting a special event from 5 to 7 p.m. April 23 at The Republic Smokehouse and Saloon, located at 1901 Bagby St. “When we do events like this we bring out more than just a few units,� Floyd said. “Sometimes we bring out

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Pedaling for a cure

By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

“This isn’t going to work. We know what this is about. We are going to fight this.�

“Perhaps you guys didn’t realize what you were doing, but this is an inside deal...�

HPD receives $1.5 million donation for new gear

There are few among us who have not been touched by breast cancer. Each woman’s journey with the disease is different. However, many have a difficult time expressing the flood of emotions that accompany the diagnosis and treatment. One local artist found her voice through art. Thedra Cullar-Ledford, 45, produces what she calls a “mash-up of conceptualism, minimalism, storytelling and autobiography,� and has shown nationally and in-

ternationally. She and her husband Stephan built and run Independence Art Studios on Janisch Rd. off North Shepherd Drive. The studios offer unique work spaces made from old shipping containers to help support Houston artists. Last weekend, Cullar-Ledford opened a one-woman show at G Gallery on 11th St. which will hang throughout April. This is no ordinary show; it shares the story of her journey through the diagnosis of cancer, its treatment and recovery. See Art, P. 6A

Photo by Kim Hogstrom Thedra Cullar-Ledford stands in front of her exhibition at G Gallery.

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Police Reports • April 1 - April 5 APRIL 1 Burglary 8 AM 200-299 W 10TH Theft 2:22 PM 900-999 18TH Theft 11:45 AM 900-999 N LOOP W Theft 11:02 AM 100-199 YALE Theft 10:01 AM 2500-2599 SHEARN Theft 4:27 PM 2500-2599 SHEARN Theft 1:18 PM 2500-2599 SHEARN Theft 2 PM 1300-1399 NASHUA Theft 4:56 AM 1300-1399 W 43RD Burglary 2:50 PM 600-699 E 16TH Theft 8:40 AM 700-799 W 18TH Theft 7:19 AM 900-999 N LOOP W Burglary 7:55 AM 6400-6499 WISTER Burglary 9:59 PM 3500-3599 HOUSTON Burglary 6 AM 1000-1099 PINEMONT Theft 7:15 PM 11100-11199 NORTHWEST FWY

Theft 7 PM 1800-1899 WASHINGTON Theft 6 PM 1700-1799 LATEXO Theft 12:07 PM 5200-5299 W 34TH Theft 6 AM 1100-1199 YALE Theft 8:16 AM 900-999 N LOOP W Burglary 9:34 AM 1100-1199 W 25TH Burglary 11 AM 400-499 E 28TH Theft 3:23 PM 900-999 W 30TH

APRIL 2 Burglary 12 PM 6700-6799 KURY Assault 9:23 AM 5200-5299 SUE MARIE Theft 1:30 PM 2100-2199 TANNEHILL Burglary 5:10 PM 7200-7299 N SHEPHERD Theft 4:30 PM 400-499 W 19TH Robbery 11:21 AM 1500-1599 N LOOP W Theft 7:04 AM 100-199 YALE

APRIL 3 Theft 3:50 AM 200-299 W 20TH Theft 10 AM 2800-2899 YALE Theft 10:30 AM 200-299 HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 9:25 AM 100-199 YALE Theft 3:19 PM 2500-2599 SHEARN Burglary 5:03 AM 600-699 STUDEMONT Theft 1:28 PM 2700-2799 W T C JESTER Theft 5:16 AM 2000-2099 EBONY Assault 4:59 PM 4100-4199

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SHERWOOD Theft 7:40 AM 500-599 NORTHWEST MALL Robbery 9:35 AM 5100-5199 W 34TH Theft 9 AM 3900-3999 WASHINGTON Theft 4 PM 1000-1099 PINEMONT Theft 7:30 AM 5900-5999 MAXROY APRIL 4 Theft 10:42 AM 400-499 W 25TH Burglary 12 PM 300-399 E 38TH Robbery 10:24 AM 900-999 N DURHAM Theft 6:56 AM 2200-2299 TAYLOR Theft 6:48 AM 3900-3999 WASHINGTON Burglary 6:34 AM 0-99 E CROSSTIMBERS Theft 11:24 AM 4900-4999 WASHINGTON Theft 6:45 AM 2400-2499 WASHINGTON Burglary 1:08 PM 700-799 E 25TH Theft 3 PM 900-999 W 23RD Theft 8:34 AM 1600-1699 T C JESTER Theft 4:49 AM 5000-5099 LIBBEY APRIL 5 Burglary 5:33 AM 700-799 W 24TH Robbery 4:30 PM 500-599 CROSSTIMBERS Robbery 12:19 AM 1800-1899 WASHINGTON Reports are provided by SpotCrime.com based on data from the Houston Police Department.

Arabic from P. 1A For its part, HISD said that dents who learn a foreign community, they also will have the majority of the funding for language become better learn- the cultural understanding its dual language programs ers and thinkers,” said HISD and empathy that comes with comes from its general fund, spokeswoman Holly Huffman. learning in a diverse environwhich is bankrolled from the “More importantly, learning ment,” she said. state budget. a foreign language helps stuIt is this empathy which one Barbie Miller from The dents gain a more profound respondent felt was lacking Woodlands was one respon- understanding of their own in much of the online comdent who received informa- culture and develop a more mentary and wasn’t indicative tion from Stop the Magnet. positive attitude toward other of what “real Americans and She wanted to know how the cultures.” Proud Texans stand for: [peoteachers at the school would Principal Kate Adams is un- ple of] diverse cultures and bebe vetted, and what exactly deterred in her enthusiasm and liefs who live harmoniously.” the young students would be hopes AIMS students go on to Seconds reader Shannon taught. Yvette Gilbert from become leaders both in Hous- Zierau: “Love the diversity and Porter, TX was another. Her ton and across the globe. “Not education options…Houston is biggest concern was about the only will they have the lan- truly a globally minded city.” money being spent on a dual guage skills to communicate language program. with members of our global “We are broke,” she said. “Aren’t there more cost effective ways to teach a language?” As another poster said: Since 1995 Mon-Fri “There are schools within two 8aM-8pM miles of this Arabic school that SaMe Day need basic supplies, general Service cleaning, yard work, library books, playground equipment, art teachers, instruments, music teachers, computers, extra teacher’s aides and more. Learning Arabic is nice but not essential to success. Knowing math procedures, English vocabulary, grammar and how to write an essay is essential.” Despite the dissent, HISD maintains that the school fills a need, due to the fact that as one of the world’s leading energy capitals, Houston has strong economic ties to the Middle East, and because Arabic is the second-most common foreign language spoken at home inRotaryFandango4.92x5Final2.pdf HISD. 1 3/10/15 8:41 AM “Research shows that stu-

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Precinct One Alerts: Deputies nab bicycle thief Heights HOA

possession of marijuana. Both suspects were taken into custody and charged with Possession of Marijuana and transported to the Harris County Jail without further incident.

On Thursday April 2, 2015 at approximately 8:13 a.m., a deputy was on patrol in the 200 block of E. 14th. The deputy observed several possible students from Reagan congregating in the public alley between Harvard and Cortlandt. This area has been known to be where students smoke marijuana before going to school. As the deputy pulled into the alley with his marked patrol vehicle the students began to walk away from the deputy’s patrol vehicle. The deputy instructed the students to stop at which time they began to run away from the scene. The deputy was able to detain a male and female who were in

On Tuesday, April 7, 2015, at approximately, 0546 hours, a Harris County Constable Precinct One Contract Deputy was patrolling the north side of Heights contract when he observed a male riding a bicycle north bound in the 2800 Block of Yale Street. Deputy also observed the male pulling another bicycle next to him impeding traffic. Deputy contacted Harris County Precinct One Dispatch to check if any thefts were reported in the area from the prior shift and Harris County dispatch advised there had been. Deputy confirmed the description of one of the bicycles to that one that had been stolen within the last 30 minutes. The owner of the stolen bicycle was contacted and was able to confirm the description of the stolen bicycle. The owner of the stolen bicycle arrived to the scene where he recognized the bicycle as his. Deputy contacted the Harris County District Attorney’s Office where they accepted Burglary of a Building charges on the suspect. The suspect was booked into the Harris County Jail.

Garden Oaks HOA On Monday April 6, 2015 at approximately 9:03 a.m., Harris County Constable Deputies responded to an Burglary call in the 3200 block of Lawrence St. Upon arrival Deputies talked to the complainant and he stated he had been out of town for about 30 days and came home to found his things stolen.

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Police from P. 1A things like the department’s gang taskforce, to help educate residents on visuals or tattoos to look out for. We can also bring out our special response group to show how they keep people safe during major events like protests. To RSVP for the K-9 Unit event, email cfloyd@houstonpf.com or call 713-6513122. For more information, visit www.houstonpolicefoundation.org.

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The Topics. Saturday, April 11, 2015 • Page 3A

Pinemont land deal creates a bunch of losers

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ou’ve heard of win-win and lose-lose situations, right? How about the dreaded loselose-lose-lose-lose situation? Count ‘em. Five losers. By my count, that’s about to happen to one of our communities. They’re getting sucker punched, albeit legally, and they don’t know what in the world to do. We may have an answer. Back in January 2014, METRO closed the Pinemont Park & Ride. The decision wasn’t made because traffic was down and money was being lost (though that could also have been the case. We are talking about METRO here.) Instead, TxDOT began work on U.S. 290 and decided there would no longer be a flyover from Pinemont to 290. That meant there was no way METRO could continue operation at the current location. Naturally, they decided to declare the property as “surplus” and sell the land. And naturally, like most of you, I didn’t much care because I wasn’t personally impacted. With that background in place, let me shift gears to something interesting happening in the neighborhoods around the former Pinemont Park & Ride. You know the gentrification happening in the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and wonderful neighborhoods in between? Well, that same thing is beginning to happen just north of you, in neighborhoods like Pinemont Park,

Jonathan McElvy Publisher

Forest Pines and Forest West. The old neighborhoods are becoming new again, and for good reason. When construction on 290 is complete (I’m guessing in the year 2097), those neighborhoods will be mere blocks from 290, which will make for a very simple commute to the Energy Corridor, the Galleria or downtown. In essence, people are buying houses because they know this area has the potential to be something special in another five years. When these new homeowners moved into the Pinemont and Antoine areas, though, they knew there were problems in their neighborhoods. Crime was – and still is – too high. Schools, as hard as they try, still have some work to do. And to top it off, there are eight low-income apartment complexes within a 1-mile radius of the area. Still, these residents have seen (or at least heard) about light at the end of the freeway. There have been rumblings of retail development. In what seems like the most popular

rumor in Houston, there’s been talk of an H-E-B grocery store at the Park & Ride location. Well, so much for the light. In what has all the stench of a backroom deal, METRO held an almost secret meeting Monday where Lance Gilliam, chair of the Houston Housing Authority, all but commanded that this available land will become another multi-family property. Gilliam threw out the words “eminent domain,” saying that’s how strongly his board feels about the property, which means if they want it, they’ll get it. That’s right. The HHA, responsible for building and maintaining most of the subsidized housing in the city, will buy the land and build more apartments, because eight complexes in the immediate area just aren’t enough. Now, let’s be fair about something. HHA doesn’t plan to build Section 8 housing here. Their plan is for “workforce” housing, which is usually defined as families that earn between $36,000-$42,000 year. These are not drug smugglers. These are policemen and first-year teachers and even nurses. Sure, you’ll get some weeds with the grass, but these are hard-working people who, in most cases, commit their lives and livelihood to service. That fell on deaf ears to the three dozen citizens who miraculously found their way to the METRO meeting and passionately pleaded

License plate battle started long ago The U.S. Supreme Court has been dealing with the Texas state government’s refusal to allow the Sons of Confederate Veterans to put the Confederate battle flag (it was never the official Southern flag) on their personalized license plates. Wasn’t this decided at Appomattox? But there is still one little-known story about Texas and Dixie that could have changed everything. First some background. In the old Capitol in Austin shortly after noon on Feb. 1, 1861, amid thunderous applause, a special convention voted that Texas should secede from the United States. A parade of officials came down the aisle led by George Flournoy, a leading secessionist. The procession was brought up at the end by a group of ladies from Travis County who had with them a beautiful new hand-made flag which was hoisted to a place of honor over the platform. It was not the flag of the United States. It was not the flag of the Confederacy. It was the Lone Star flag. For as the Union was dissolving, unlike the rest of the South, Texas did not face the alternative of leaving or staying. It had a third choice: Returning to where it had been barely 15 years before, to the Republic of Texas, a time span equal to now and the year 2000. How long ago was Y2K? Maybe a year? Many leaders were the same who had led the republic, although in the emotion toward the Confederacy, independence was not the strongest possibility, but, a choice, nevertheless. The Ordinance of Secession for Texas was different. It ticked off the accusations against the U.S. government including not protecting the frontier from Indian attacks (Virginia didn’t have that problem). Slavery was a key item. The secession document went on to declare that all the powers delegated by the Republic of Texas to the United States in 1845 were now being transferred back to Texas. The powers were “revoked and resumed.” Resumed -- a telling choice of words. The Ordinance added that Texas was absolved from all restraints and obligations incurred by the federal compact and that Texas was once again a separate and sovereign state. Then the convention declared the Annexation Resolution to be null and void. Feelings were high. Amelia Barr, an English woman in Austin at the time, wrote, “There were bitter disputes whenever men were congregated and domestic quarrels on every hearthstone. . . . There were now three distinct parties. One for remaining in the Union; A second which demanded a Southern Confederacy, and a third which wants Texas to resume her independence.” Gov. Sam Houston was supposedly one of those who favored a return to the Republic of Texas. Houston was against secession, and told his eldest son, Sam, Jr., not to join the Confederate Army unless Texas itself was threatened. Sam Jr. joined anyway and was wounded at Shiloh. President Lincoln got wind of a plan that Houston and the Texas Unionists would form a military force and simply hold Texas neutral. Lincoln sent an agent to Austin to confer with Houston, and promised to make him a major general in the U.S. Army commanding 50,000 troops sent to support him, but Sam turned down the idea. Francis R. Lubbock, who later be-

Lynn Ashby Columnist

came governor, wrote in his memoirs, “Had she (Texas) desired to desert her sister States of the South in this hour of need and peril (which she did not) and resume her former station as a republic, it was realized that she could not preserve a neutral attitude and maintain herself in that condition.” Three other leaders of the secession movement -John Henry Brown, Pryor Lea and John Stell – wrote an “Address to the People of Texas” in which they minimized the idea of a separate Texas. When the matter was put before the voters on Feb. 23, 1861, only two choices were given: “For Secession” and “Against Secession.” Secession won, 46,153 to 14,747. At the time, the U.S. Army had 2,700 troops in Texas -10 percent of its entire force. The Army was sent packing and its headquarters for Texas, in San Antonio, were taken over. A picture ran in Harper’s magazine at the time showing the changing of the guard. The flag flying over the headquarters was the Lone Star flag. That was once again our official pennant until Texas joined the Confederacy. But the dues of the club were high. Lubbock, after becoming governor during the war, wrote: “Texas has furnished to the Confederate military service thirty-three regiments, thirteen battalions, two squadrons, six detached companies, and one legion of twelve companies of cavalry. . . .” The number of Texans in gray eventually reached 90,000. That was three times the number of male Texans between the ages of 16 and 60 who did not join, and was the highest proportion of men from any state on either side. No one really knows how many Texans were killed in the war, but two-thirds of Terry’s Texas Rangers were killed. And after the First Texas Infantry attacked through a peach orchard at Shiloh, an observer noted that he could walk clear across the orchard and never touch the ground. An interesting side note: Despite the plea for infantrymen, two-thirds of the Texans joined the cavalry, their preferred branch of service. Lt. Col. Arthur Fremantle of the British Coldstream Guards, who visited Texas during the war, observed this fondness for cavalry service: “it was found very difficult to raise infantry in Texas,” he wrote, “as no Texan walks a yard if he can help it.” Gov. Edward Clark observed that “the predilection of Texans for cavalry service, founded as it is upon their peerless horsemanship, is so powerful that they are unwilling in many instances to engage in service of any other description unless required by actual necessity.” So the Lone Star Republic never returned, the South lost, and the only battle left is over license plates. Ashby whistles Dixie at ashby2@comcast.net

their case. (METRO did everything possible to not publicize this meeting. The Leader gets all of their releases and even the local paper didn’t hear about this one.) Most of the citizens didn’t care about the distinction between low-income and workforce housing. Instead, what they heard is that another apartment complex is coming to the area, and they desperately want H-E-B, or some other retail outfit, to buy the property. And they are right in their concern. With another 300 apartments means an influx of about 1,000 more people. That’s a lot of cars, a lot of traffic and, worse, no retail development. The problem with this whole deal is the way it has gone down. METRO snuck around, which means their public relations arm failed, even if they think they didn’t. Jim Robinson, on the METRO board, tried to take an easy way out by proclaiming that this isn’t actually a METRO project. Nice try. HHA looks bad because they’re just adding more apartments to a saturated market and their plans don’t fit with the vision of the residents. When you chalk it all up, the residents lose, METRO loses, HHA loses, the tenants of the proposed apartments will lose (they might as well wear scarlet letters), and the entire community loses because they don’t get much-needed retail development. That’s five losers.

What can be done? I talked to a very trusted source connected to City Hall. Here’s what residents need to do. Get on the phone, on email and in front of City Council. Demand – and I mean demand – to be heard by city officials. Make Mayor Annise Parker tell you, to your face, that indeed, eminent domain will be used to purchase this property. (She won’t like saying that.) Council members Ellen Cohen and Brenda Stardig need to hear from every single resident in the area. You need to call every at-large council member, as well. Trust me, this works. If enough people speak out – and it will take a concerted effort from the citizens – then you have a real chance. And here’s one other tip. City council members and the mayor’s office read this newspaper. Write us letters. We’ll publish as many as possible. METRO and HHA are both functions of our city’s government. The neighbors in Pinemont Park, Forest Pines and Forest West need to show up, en masse, and ask government to rethink this decision. It’s going to be a tough battle because you’re fighting both David and Goliath, but if you have a slingshot big enough, you might at least get this process started over again. And that’s all you can do at this point. Email jonathan@theleadernews.

The reader. Mattress stores utilize areas with low rent, high visibility Dear Editor: I enjoy reading [Jonathan McElvy’s] articles in The Leader. Your articles are fun to read, with interesting facts and information. I especially enjoy reading the article on Mattresses with a number of stores with low rent and high visibility. Thanks to you and your wife on enlightening us on mattresses, grocery stores, and coffee shops. In the past we would see dry cleaners around the corner. Diane Dear Editor: I just read [Jonathan McElvy’s] mattress article. The mattress store in the Heights that more people should know about is New Living Bedroom on 19th street.Organic mattresses made in the US without the use of chemicals. The mattresses in the chain stores are flame retardant-laced and made in China, for the most part. ML

Arabic Immersion a ‘golden ticket’ for HISD students, readers respond Dear Editor: There is no happy face diversity sticker big enough to cover what could go wrong here. We are witnessing the continued assault against American Nationalism in our country amid a raging fire and smoke background. HISD is accepting grants from the federal government for 12 million for magnet schools teaching STEM and language immersion. The top down educational agenda will enter our schools through such carrots all to ensure a “workforce ready” and internationalist new generation. The New Americans will replace the host population. Stripping American children of a cohesive national identity. This is very sad. The Middle East, home to the Arabic tongue is overrun with Christian carnage and blood runs in rivers all in the name of Islam. Many Americans are as yet unaware of the nature of Islamic infiltration that was laid out in a document obtained in a Swiss villa during an FBI raid over a decade ago

Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com

(The Project: http://www.investigativeproject.org/documents/misc/687. pdf ). The document meticulously outlines the plan for infiltrating Western civilizations through cultural exchanges and civic institutions. Islam does not adapt it demands conformity. Since these young children will be placed in a school likely to hire native Arabic speakers, what plans does HISD have to vet the instructors? One of the London tube bombers was a beloved member of his community and was a teaching assistant in a London school. Ft. Hood shooter Nidal Hasan was a U.S. Army psychiatrist who killed 13 people and injured many more. Are we supposed to believe HISD is sharp enough to vet for Jihad tendencies? E. Theiss Dear Editor: I am totally against Sharia law “invading” the United States of America. How many third world immigrants can a nation absorb until that nation ceases to be what it once was? We do not owe Muslims our country. The citizens of the United States need to act now to stem the tide of Sharia law, or our culture and sacred traditions we hold dear will no longer exist. Muslims by the plane loads are entering our country. Sharia law’s intent is to elevate itself above all non-Muslims. Sharia law does not respect the laws of the host country they immigrate to. Sharia law allows the beating of women with impunity, polygamy, and pedophilia, the killing of apostates, gays, and adulterers. These beliefs run contrary to the laws of the United States where life, liberty and property are held in sacred regard. We must not allow Muslims to open up their private schools to indoctrinate (brain wash) children into the teachings of Sharia law, and supplanting the United States traditions with their own. Barbie Miller Dear Editor: When will the HISD parents wake up? There are schools within two miles of this Arabic school that need basic supplies, general cleaning, yard work, library books, playground equipment, art teachers, instruments, music teachers, computers, extra teacher’s aides and more. Learning

Arabic is nice but not essential to success. Knowing math procedures, English vocabulary, grammar and how to write an essay is essential. Kids are not learning to write in cursive but now Arabic? The school board seems asleep at the wheel. The money just goes poof at HISD. It’s not their money. N.C. Dear Editor: If this program is so popular, why wasn’t it created by a private entity? Not only am I against spending hard earned tax dollars on this program but I am also offended that HISD would even consider funding such an unAmerican facility. How many tax payer funded English immersion schools are there in the Middle East? Tanya Ann Dear Editor: This nation does not “owe” to foreigners any compromise of our morals, standards or Christian beliefs or way of life. How dare they try to come over and attempt infiltrate our society with their beliefs! Have they or their families or ancestors died to establish and free this nation? NO! The only way they may proceed with their attempts is if America stays asleep and does not react aggressively towards this. Wake up, America!!! Sound your voice! Anne Dear Editor: Please ignore the ignorant, hateful, comments above by others who call themselves American but forget what real Americans and Proud Texans stand for: diverse cultures and beliefs who live harmoniously. Any additional language skills and cultural awareness is a gain for all of us, especially those who unfortunately don’t know any better! Thank you HISD for all the dual language programs!! J. Ortiz Dear Editor: Very proud of HISD for this incredible and unique opportunity for our students and community. Kudos to Kate Adams for recognizing not just the value of this endeavor, but the need and stepping up to fulfill it. Jennifer O’Brien

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Page 4A • Saturday, April 11, 2015

Neighbors: Opening day for Oaks Dads Club

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By Elizabeth Villarreal elizasgarden@outlook.com Nothing says spring has sprung like opening day of the 2015 Baseball and Softball Season at Oaks Dads Club last week when teams, parents, volunteers and friends participated in the annual Opening Day festivities. The day began with a parade of teams marching from Waltrip High School down to the ODC complex. The ODC Board Members and community would like to thank Constable Alan Rosen for leading the parade and Ashley Coffee for singing the National Anthem at the opening so beautifully. The new 2015-2016 ODC Baseball Board was announced: President - Sean Jez, Treasurer - Jeremy Woods, Comptroller - Beth Culver, Shawn Salyers, Angela Solice, Melissa Medina, Steven Ruffino, Lori Woods, Andy Moore and Andy Tomczeszyn. The ODC Hall of Fame honors those men and women who have played a major role in the growth and development of youth sports at Oaks Dads’ Club. The purpose of the Hall of Fame is to bring to the attention of the public the widespread value of Oaks Dads’ Club by honoring those who have made outstanding contributions to ODC’s success as well as those for whom ODC laid the foundation for his or her successful career in sports. Last year was the inaugural year of the ODC Hall of Fame and 5 men and women were honored. This year ODC inducted 3 more of its alumni into the Oaks Dads’ Club Hall of Fame. Oaks Dads’ Club inducted J.T. Levay into the Oaks Dads’ Club

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Contributed Photo Todd and Debbie Roznovsky displaying the outfield sign installed in memory of their father and husband, Ron Roznovsky, 2014 ODC Hall of Fame Inductee. Hall of Fame in the Coaches Category. J.T. coached football and baseball at ODC for many years in the ‘60s. There was only 1 field at ODC at that time. J.T. went to all the local companies and members to get sponsorships to build the football field. He loved to coach and his philosophy was that you must get to know a child before you can coach them. He believed in the mental and physical therapeutic values of the game and was determined not to overlook any small detail which might lessen those values. Oaks Dads’ Club inducted Humphrey Hughes into the ODC Hall of Fame for Meritorious Service. Humphrey Hughes’s relationship with ODC spans from 1950s to 2000s. Hughes assumed many roles including President, Vice President, and Publicity Chair for the Corporate Board; Vice President and Tee Ball Supervisor of the Softball Board; and President of the Baseball Board. Oaks Dads’ Club inducted Pat Hale into the ODC Hall of Fame for Meritorious Service for service spanning over 20 years. Pat began

We Are Moving

coaching softball at ODC in 1983 and continuously coached until 2006. During this time, she was a member of the softball board, football board, basketball board, and corporate board. Pat helped build the football program in the 1990s and organize the BBQ cook off and moms’ powder puff games to benefit the football program. She advocated for children whose families could not afford to pay their fees and believed that all children deserve a chance to play. Oaks Dads’ Club was her second home which she loved dearly. Some might argue it was more like her first home since she spent the majority of her time there. Pat lived to coach which can be seen by the “Coach Pat” shirt she wore when she was laid to rest last year. Pat’s dedication to ODC and its children was beyond compare. Although Pat is no longer with us, her contributions to Oaks Dads’ Club live on. Finally, ODC announced an outfield sign in memory of Ron Roznovsky will be installed. Mr. Roznovsky was an ODC Hall of Fame inductee last year.

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ryan Harris

Ryan Harris, beloved father, husband, brother, friend entered eternal life on April 7, 2015. His spirit is carried on by his wife of forty-two years, Rhonda Harris, as well as his brother Dee, three children Ryan, Brent and Lauren, six grandchildren, and an extended family of relations and friends. We were blessed to learn many great lessons from Ryan in his sixty four years, including to always help those in need. He was one of the hardest workers you could ever meet and he took pride in his work and was well known in the Oak Forest community as an honest mechanic, always willing to help others, always offering fair and thorough service. We will have dinner and a memorial celebration of his life at SSQQ in the Heights. Please join us at 1431 W 20th St., Houston, TX 77008 at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday April 11th, to celebrate the life of our dear Ryan. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St Jude Children’s Hospital.

Saturday, April 11, 2015 • Page 5A

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Pinemont from P. 1A values should the complex be built. Sandra Cirone, Pinemont Park Homeowners Association Boardmember, said she shared many of the concerns of her fellow neighbors and cited traffic and drainage problems among some of the other potential issues it might bring. “I feel that putting something in that large will impede traffic along Pinemont as well as foot traffic into our community,” Cirone said. “Also from a school standpoint, how is this going to affect schools that are already full in that particular area?” Juan Cuevas, a commercial realtor and resident of Oak Forest since 2007, said the end-use of the property should be determined by the

free market. “To know that the highest and best use for this property has not been defined by the free market where this is exposed to everybody – it might still end up being this kind of housing – but this feels like a back door deal,” Cuevas said. METRO Real Estate Committee co-chair Diane Lewter said the committee has held two meetings in the past with the opportunity for residents to offer public comment; however only one person showed up to a previous meeting. Committee members argue the process has been open, as all actions and conversations have been streamed and posted online METRO’s website. In an email Forest West Association president David Ojeman called the threat of emi-

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Page 6A • Saturday, April 11, 2015

The calendar.

LEGIONNAIRES STEAK NITE American Legion Post 560 Come by for a great meal at the American Legion Post 560, 3720 Alba. Steak dinners will be served April 17, from 6 p.m. until sold out. Entertainment will be Ron and Reta Rebstock. Information: 713-682-9287, www.americanlegionpost560.org.

FOOD TRUCK FANDANGO Tommy Vaughn Ford/Rotary Club of Houston Heights A diverse group of food trucks will be selling a variety of gourmet foods and sweets. Live Music will be provided by The Zydeco Dots. The event will be at the SPJST Hall, 1435 Beall St., from 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. April 11. Tickets are $20 for two adults (includes $5 towards beer/wine); single adult ticket, $12; $4 for teens 13-18; and free for kids 12 and under. Tickets may be purchased online. Information: www.eventbrite.com.

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FREE TAX SERVICES M.D. Anderson Family YMCA M.D. Anderson Family YMCA has partnered with University of St. Thomas VITA Tax program to provide free tax services this season. No appointments are necessary and service is first come, first served. Services are provided on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. until April 11. Information: Adriana.garcia@ymcahouston.org, 713-697-0648. FOREST WEST CHILI COOK OFF Forest West Community Center Do you have the best chili recipe? Find out at the Forest West chili cook off April 11. Watch as contestants make their chili from scratch, or come to the community center as the winners are selected. Judging starts at 3 p.m. Information: 713459-8572.

From the Pews.

Faithbooking at First Church Heights First Church Heights, 201 E. 9th St., will host Faithbooking which is the process of documenting one’s faith with pictures and journaling, from 7-11 p.m. April 10. Subsequent meetings will be the first Friday of each month. No experience or supplies necessary. Call 713-410-1508 for information. Taste of Spring cooking class at St. Mark’s St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 600 Pecore, will have a Taste of Spring cooking class 1-3 p.m. April 11, in the fellowship hall. The class is taught by St. Mark’s member, Cindy Freeman, author of “Colorful Food for the Soul� with sous chef Shea Hill. A light lunch is included.

SPIRIT NIGHT AT CHIC-FIL-A Boy Scout Troop 604 Boy Scout Troop 604 is having a Spirit Night at Chic-Fil-A, 925 N. Loop West, from 5-8 p.m. April 16. The troop will earn money from dine-in sales. An indoor/outdoor garage sale will be at the Scouthouse, 4301 Donna Bell, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. May 2. All money raised will help send the Scouts to summer camp.

For information, call 713-8613104 or visit www.smumc.org. ‘The Gathering Place’ meets at St. Stephen’s The monthly meeting of “The Gathering Place,� a ministry for persons with Alzheimer’s and other memory loss and their caregivers, will be held from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. April 13, in the fellowship hall. The meetings include lunch. There is no charge to attend. For information about this ministry, call 713-682-5995. St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. For information call 713-6868241 or visit www.stsumc.org. Greater Mt. Zion celebrates 120 years Greater Mt. Zion, 835 W. 23rd St., was founded on April 15,

simple decision. “I am an artist,� Cullar-Ledford said. “I like symmetry.� This cancer survivor also feels fortunate, and says she “got off easy.� “They found mine early, and the surgery was successful� Cullar-Ledford said. “I did not need chemo or radiation. Some women go back and forth, through many tests and treatments. My journey was short but intense.� “Thedra Culler-Ledford’s show reminds me of the early days of AIDS activist work in the art world: funny, angry, sad, sarcastic, aggressive and brilliantly executed, all at once,� said Bill Arning, Director of the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. “I was mentally unpacking images from that night for days after. As a man, I would be just as pissed about the experience as this wonderful artist.� Cullar-Ledford hopes the show will travel to cancer support organizations and venues where patients will get to see it. She wants other survivors to know that they are not alone and that a positive outcome is possible. “And everyone always wants to know about my friend who needed the kidney. He got one anyway and he is doing very well too,� Cullar-Ledford said.

(Between Ella & T.C. Jester)

MOVIE IN THE PARK Leather Apron Foundation The Leather Apron Foundation is hosting a Movie in the Park at Durham Elementary School in the field next door to Shepherd Park on April 25. The movie “Big Hero 6,� a Walt Disney animated action/comedy, rated PG, will be shown. The event is free. Food Trucks are scheduled to be on site to sell dinner and snacks beginning at 6:30 p.m. No alcohol is allowed.

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1895, in the Houston Heights. Heritage Sunday is at 11 a.m. April 12. Morning worship members will dress in outfits depicting the eras from 1895-2015. The Black And Gold Banquet is 6:30 p.m. April 18, at the Sheraton Brookhollow Hotel, 3000 North Loop W. Fwy. Culmination of 120th Anniversary, Family and Friends Day is April 26. Sunday School is 9:30 a.m., morning wor ship is at 11 a.m. and Culmination is 3:30 p.m. Call 713-862-3323 or 713-5984349 for information.

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GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH 4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227 Reverend John Cain, Pastor Worship Services 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. (Nursery Provided) Sunday School & Bible Classes 9:15 a.m. Preschool Program • Mon. - Fri. 9-2 p.m. Member of MANNA

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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

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

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713-861-3102

www.gethsemanelutheran.org

Lowest Prices in Town!

Spring activities at Third Age Learning Center Third Age Learning Center, located on the campus of All Saints Catholic Church, 215 E. 10th St., is offering a gardening class on Tuesday afternoon, April 14, 21 and 28. The class is being presented by Master Gardener Cecilia Dow. Call 713-248-1277 for time and location. TALC offers a full course hot lunch Monday through Friday at noon for $2. For information or lunch reservations, call 713-2481277.

ChurCh Guide Oaks Presbyterian Church

West 34th St.

HEIGHTS KIDS’ DAY OF MUSIC Love Park The Heights Kids’ Day of Music is a free event that will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. April 18, at Love Park, 1000 W. 12th St. There will be a main stage with performances every 40 minutes. A secondary stage will showcase local and non-profit businesses. Information: hkdmhtown@gmail. com, www.heightskidsdayofmusic.com.

New Well Puppy & Kitten Exam

Art from P. 1A “The opening was wonderful,� Cullar-Ledford said. “We had a 19-foot, walk-though boob at the opening, and we served boob-shaped cupcakes. We also had a mobile mammogram unit at the gallery. For every two insured women we served, a third uninsured woman was screened for free! The show’s actual name is ‘Drawing the Eye to Nothingness,’ but I like to call it Booba-palooza.� There is no typical story when it comes to cancer but, even with that in mind, Cullar-Ledford’s is memorable. In December 2013, the artist was two days away from undergoing surgery to donate a kidney to a sick friend. “I was not a direct match for my friend, so I was a part of a chain,� Cullar-Ledford said. “Someone in L.A. was going to get my kidney and, in return, someone else was donating one to my friend. The patient in L.A. required one last test to complete the match, a test my friend’s donor was not required to perform: a mammogram. The doctor found three abnormalities in one of my breasts within an hour.� Cullar-Ledford had a bilateral mastectomy in February, 2014. While tests indicated only one implicated breast, Cruller-Ledford chose to remove both. For her, it was a

LOOK GOOD...FEEL BETTER SEMINAR Memorial Hermann Northwest Memorial Hermann Northwest is proud to host Look Good...Feel Better, from 10 a.m.-noon, April 13, in South Tower, Classroom C. This free program teaches beauty techniques to women who are actively undergoing cancer treatment. Call to register. Information: 713-222-CARE (2273).

May The Sacred Heart of Jesus Be adored, glorified, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever Sacred Heart of Jesus pray for us. St. Jude worker of miracles pray for us St. Jude helper of the hopeless pray for us, Amen. Thank you St. Jude Say prayer 9 times/day for 9 days Publication must be Promised.

ShinE your light on mE! Chase Baker, D.D.S.

L

ast week we discussed how the month of April is Oral Cancer Awareness month and talked about how your dentist should be making routine oral cancer screenings a part of your regular check-ups. Early detection is a key piece to ensuring the best possible treatment outcomes. Technology is now making it easier to detect any changes in the oral tissue at it’s earliest possible stage. OralID uses a fluorescent light technology which, when viewed by your dentist, can detect abnormal tissues in their inceptive state. It has the ability to detect lesions that may appear completely normal under visible light. This is an amazing breakthrough in oral cancer screening and could quite possibly save your life. OralID’s motto is “Shine a Light, Save a Life.� This could be exactly what your dentist is doing when they shine their light on you. 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.

MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

In PraIse of PlacIdIty

The poem ‘Desiderata’ by Max Ehrmann opens with the following line: ‘Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.’ The term ‘desiderata’ is Latin for ‘desired things’ and Ehrmann’s poem is a compendium of sage advice for a well-lived life. Focusing only on the first line of the poem, we would do well to remember that the hustle and bustle of our modern world is fast, noisy, and devoid of a sense of calmness and serenity that is important to our well-being. While there are times when we crave speed and excitement, a wellbalanced life also needs a fair amount of quiet calm. Time spent alone, and without the noisy distractions of phones, televisions and computer screens, can be instrumental in slowing us down. Turn off the lights and any electronic devices, including your phone, yes, your phone has an ‘Off’ button. Spend some time just being there. We forget that we don’t always have to be doing something. Sometimes just being is enough. Try to carry your newfound sense of calmness and serenity back into your everyday life. And finally, realize that you can take a short serenity break anytime by just closing your eyes and going to a peaceful and relaxing spot in your mind. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

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

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A House of Hope and Prayer in the Heart of Houston Rev. Elizabeth Grasham

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Food, drink & Art Saturday, April 11, 2015 • Page 7A

Brenner’s on the Bayou Wine Fest, easy choice Thi

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Merging chef crafted bites with renowned wineries, the Brenner’s on the Bayou Annual Wine Fest brings together some of Houston’s finest folk and Food and Drink masterminds. Enjoy exclusive wineries from 3-6 p.m. on April 11 and best of all – guests can also enjoy cuisine from Houston’s top chefs all while sipping and sampling wine. You can view participating wineries and chefs online at www. brennersfest.com/default.asp. Another great plus, there will also be live music. Limited tickets are available – so hurry and grab yours at www.brennersfest.com/tickets.asp. Landry’s Select Club members and VIP ticket holders receive early admission at 2:30 p.m. There will be a shuttle bus

service available that will operate from Landry’s, at 1510 W. Loop South 77027, to the wine fest and the cost is $5.

local business and donated to bethematch.org. All proceeds, even bar proceeds, will benefit the foundation.

Be the Match Fundraiser at Fitz

It’s crawfish season! If you’re a mudbug lover and enjoy 8th Wonder Brewery beer, this weekend’s crawfish boil is just for you. D&T is pairing the two on Saturday, April 11 starting at 1 p.m. Crawfish are $9 per pound and include corn and potatoes. The mudbugs will be prepared by Bernadine’s head chef Graham Laborde until sold out and weather permitting. If you’re looking for something hoppy try 8th Wonder’s Hopston or another great option and a Thirsty Explorer favorite - the Brewston.

Fitzgerald’s and Pegstar are partnering up again to bring a great Saturday night lineup that will benefit those in need. Pegstar, the brains behind Fitz, Free Press Summer Fest and the soon-to-be venue off of North Main, started this venture in 2011. After the September 11 attack, November was the first launch of their benefit concert and last year began the “Fitz Benefit Show Series.” The goal from the show was to raise $10,000 by last call. Just like last year, Pegstar is bringing another great lineup and all proceeds from Saturday, April 11, will go to Be the Match, a bone-marrow regis-

D&T Crawfish Boil

A view of last year’s Wine Fest at Brenner’s on the Bayou.

try of potential matches for those fighting blood diseases like leukemia and lymphoma. This year’s lineup will feature almost a dozen top Houston acts, but just to name a few: Another Run as Radiohead, Catch Fever as U2, Empty Shells as Nirvana, Sunrise & Ammunition as St. Vincent, -Us as Drake and lots more, plus DJ Fredster. The show is $10 and your entry fee will be matched by a

day, April 11 from 3-6 p.m. at Wakefield Crowbar, located at 954 Wakefield Dr. 77018. Tickets are donation based for $45.

Hosting a party or corporate event? Let us do all the work.

CATERING

Craft beer festival this weekend

Don’t forget about OFHA craft beer festival this Satur-

We can deliver and set up at your home or office. Join us for lunch on our outdoor patio 2120 Ella Boulevard • (713) 869-6622

Art Valet

www.Cavatores.com

Follow the art and meet artist Cathy Prieto-Smith It has been said, that if you want to know where the next trendy neighborhood is, follow the artists, and if you need a clue, follow Cathy Prieto-Smith. Prieto-Smith is in the final stages of completing Charisma Designs Art Studios on the corner of 226 Calvalcade at Fulton. More than just artist studios for lease, Prieto-Smith is creating a community. Prieto-Smith wrote in an email, “We have moved from my tiny art studio above my garage in the Heights into a 6000 square foot old metal building on Cavalcade at Fulton. We now have artist studios for lease, classrooms, and a gallery where we’ll be promoting local artists every month! I’m very excited to be on a corner with Mitch Cohen a METRO Stop. I’ve got Alex “Zú” Arzú Arts Columnist painting a beautiful mural outside and an amazing metal sculpture of an Olive Tree inside by Jeff McGee.” Arriving at the new studio, large ants, grasshoppers and other bugs greet you from Arzú’s mural in progress. Single tennis shoes hang from a fence with a sign that reads “Lost Soles.” All acceptable considering this is an art studio, until you walk in the front door of this former furniture store, and find yourself in the courtyard of an Italian Villa. Balconies, windows with flower boxes, red and white striped canopies and a clock tower are right there. Beyond charming, this is not your typical artist studio. Resident artists have 24 hour access, use of a photography studio, kilns and the classrooms. The studios are on the ground floor, off the interior “courtyard.” Prieto-Smith said that building the space has been a community project with many players. Heights artist and metal sculptor John Barber has been instrumental, as have members of both the Houston Metal Clay Guild, Houston Metal Arts Guild (Prieto-Smith is President) and the Houston Society of Glass Beadmakers - they call themselves Houston

Hotties. When complete, Charisma Designs Art Studios will be a hub of art that is sure to be an emerging art scene in this near north Houston neighborhood. “Being right next to a METRO Rail stop, I’m hoping it helps my studio in the long run,” Prieto-Smith said. “I think it’s a wonderful opportunity to have people park somewhere else and come in. Or if you live farther out you can take the rail in and because it’s on the corner, it’s right here.” Prieto-Smith said she’s figuring some things out as she goes, like the classes. “My goal is to have lots of different art classes in lots of different mediums. I would love to have something for everyone.” Some of the artists have expressed interest and of course Prieto-Smith plans to teach too; her medium is metal and glass. A Heights resident since 1996, Prieto-Smith says she wouldn’t live anywhere else. “I went to University of Houston,” she said. “My degree is in psychology. But my heart has always been in art.” The goal is to have a May 15 grand opening. Watch the website for details, www. charisma-designs.com or contact Cathy Prieto-Smith by email Cathy Prieto-Smith working in c.prietosmith@charisma-designs. her studio. com.

Leader Nibbles

not waste any food. Find more in next week’s edition of Food & Drink.

Biskit Junkie to open when they reach 1K likes on Facebook...maybe By Christina Martinez christina@theleadernews.com Last year, about this time, The Leader reported the announcement of the Jus’ Mac owners’ newest venture - Biskit Junkie. Representatives of Jus’ Mac told The Leader they were aiming for a May opening date “barring any hold-ups from the city.” A year later, it is safe to say hold-ups from the city and elsewhere have been at the forefront, but it seems that there is finally some light at the end of the tunnel or biscuits. On April 2, Biskit Junkie took to their Facebook page to promise an opening as soon as the Facebook page gained 1,000 Facebook page likes. The Facebook page quickly gained attention and likes, and then the Facebook post became a message board of approval, disapproval and mayhem.

“Biskit Junkie taking the literal meaning of the word ‘slowly’ to a whole other level,” Regina Adams comments. Other comments tell about frustration with the taped up windows and closed doors, and reiterate the community’s craving for biscuits in the neighborhood. The Facebook page is currently at 924 likes, as The Leader is sent to press.

Hugs & Donuts is open

The much awaited opening of the Heights doughnut shop is finally here. Doors opened on Monday, April 6 and as expected, the shop sold out before closing on day one. Doughnut lovers will have to get there early to grab the coveted Kolaches, partner Matt Opaleski said. Opaleski goes on to tell The Leader that they plan on selling out every day, so they can get their numbers right and

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Have a tip for Thirsty Explorer or want to submit your upcoming event? Email Christina@theleadernews.com and follow on Twitter @ThirstyExplorer

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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.

The Myti name battle is over

Earlier this year, The Leader reported a neighborhood query that jolted a lot of media debate with the newly opened Kathy’s Myti-Express inside the Dr. Gleem Car Wash. The new express is a separate entity than MytiBurger on 43rd Street, which Kathy Reynolds Green closed and sold to Shawn Salyers in 2012. Debate jolted from Facebook, commenters questioning Green’s motive and others approving the name usage with her community background. One thing that is certain, Salyers did not approve of Green’s use of the ‘Myti’ name. Last week, Salyers was happy to tell his Facebook followers and neighborhood Facebook groups that he and Green had come to an agreement. “Kathy graciously agreed to remove the ‘Myti’ from her name at the car wash,” Salyers said. Salyers goes on to encourage everyone to check out Kathy’s Express and shares his excitement to have Green back in the business community.

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