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Saturday, May 16, 2015 • Vol. 60 • No. 28 Leader Small Display_Silva NEW PHOTO.indd 4/17/15 2:04 1 PM

Local parents worried over new HISD boundaries for Love, Sinclair elementaries By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

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The news that HISD Board of Education is again considering plans to reduce classroom overcrowding by adjusting neighborhood attendance boundaries at certain elementary schools is not a surprise to residents of Shady Acres – the issue was brought up and tabled at a March board meeting. But they are no less opposed now to the plan to change their elementary school zone from Sinclair Elementary to Love Elementary. “As a community we’ve worked really hard to establish a relationship with Sinclair and to support it,” said Kallie Benes, who lives in Shady Acres and would be rezoned to Love. “A lot of people have put in a lot of leg work. All that hard work would be lost in

a transition to a new school. We’d be starting all over.” Parents who live in Shady Acres say that they bought in the area partly because they had researched schools and were favorably impressed by Sinclair, who had HISD’s Teacher of the Year in 2013-2014 and received good rankings from Children At Risk, an A- in 2014 and a B this year. They say that Love, which the Texas Education Association said “meets standard” for 2013-2014, is not as strong academically as Sinclair. “Sinclair is a lot further along,” said Ivo Djambov who lives on 23rd Street and has three boys, the oldest of which would start kindergarten in 2016. “We liked what we saw there.” See Zoning, P. 6A

Photo by Betsy Denson Sinclair parent Kimberly Spaeth walks her boys home from school. While her family is not directly affected by the rezoning, Spaeth supports the Shady Acres community.

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An oldie but a goodie In this month’s edition of Food & Drink, Connie’s Seafood on Airline Drive is in the spotlight. The eatery has weathered the competitive Houston restuarant market with a dedicated following.

Contributed Photo Will Martin and his mother, Lori Martin share happy moments together; however the 6year-old boy suffers from Leigh’s Syndrome, a genetic disease which can turn simple colds into long hospital stays.

Youngster fights genetic disease with help from community

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Reagan’s Finest Reagan High School’s JROTC Program made a rousing appearance at this year’s national championships, winning a national title alongside numerous other first place, second place and third place awards. Read all about the students’ achievements in this week’s issue.

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The INDEX. Church

5A

Classifieds

4B

Coupons

6B

Food/Drink/Art Obituaries

1B 4A

Opinion

3A

Public Information Puzzles

2A 6A

Oak Forest resident owls captivate neighborhood, nature lovers across area

By Kim Hogstrom For The Leader

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com Although Oak Forest resident Mark Lear’s day job as the Associate Artistic Administrator for the Houston Grand Opera is pretty interesting, it is his recent birding hobby that is getting all the attention on social media. An owl house that he put up in his yard in late March of 2014 attracted a male and female eastern screech owl – so named Owlivia and Owlexander by Lear – who decided to use it for nesting. The result of their union – owlets Screech and Song, whose photographs have been posted on the Oak Forest Homeowners Association page – have captivated the neighborhood. A third baby owl, Thurston Owl the Third, just made his appearance earlier this week. Lear’s interest in owls started recently, after he saw one for the first time in his yard last year. He decided to put up an owl house and after doing some research online, he ordered one from an ornithologist living in Nacogdoches, named Cliff Shackelford, who builds owl habitats as a side business. “[Shackelford’s] website owlshack.com has a terrific

Photo by Betsy Denson Top: Owlets Screech and Song made their appearance this spring. Above, Mark Lear checks out Thurston Owl the Third, the newest addition to his owl family.

Frequently Asked Questions page which just enhanced my interest further,” said Lear. Lear also attended an “Owl Prowl” at Armand Bayou Nature Center, where he learned how to listen for owls, how to use a red filtered light to look for them without disturbing them too much, and even how to play owl calls on a smart phone to draw them closer. He put up the owl shack in late March 2014, mounting it 12 feet off the ground on a large ash tree in his backyard. By late summer, he had identified two screech owls hanging around his yard at dusk: a small reddish male (Owlex-

Will Martin may be one of the cutest 6-year-old boys in the Heights. His sparkling blue eyes and cheeky grin only hint at his intelligence and sense of humor. “Yes, Will is very bright, and he has impeccable comedic timing,” said his mother, Lori Martin. “He’s a charmer all right.” This youngster’s boyishly handsome appearance suggests nothing of his actual health. Will has Leigh’s Syndrome, a genetic disease affecting the mitochondria of every cell in his body. With no known cure, his prognosis is terminal. Will also suffers from a weakened immune system, meaning simple sniffles could turn into hospital stay from which he would not return. Last month, Will spent seven days in hospital with a brain infection. He has recovered well, according to his doctors, and functions at about 85 percent of baseline. “It’s been a slow recovery, but we See Leighs, P. 6A

See Owls, P. 7A

Waltrip High School to close childcare center By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com Sarah Maugans says she could hardly believe the words in the letter sent home with her 18-month-old daughter last week. United Way’s Bright Beginnings childcare center inside of the school, which has been part of the campus for years and provided daycare for children like her own, will close its doors at the end of the school year. “It has been quite a shock for many of us,” Maugans said. “The confusing thing for us has been that the daycare center has always been part of the construction going on at the school. We had been promised a new, inde-

pendent facility so it was quite a shock for them to say it would be closing.” First launched in 2002, The Bright Beginnings program is a joint venture between ExxonMobil and the United Way and focuses on providing early education with a focus on child development and interactive learning. Many of the children enrolled inside the childcare center at WHS are from the local parent population and other HISD employees; however several are students at the high school. In the 2012 bond used for construction and renovations at the high school, about $500,000 was allocated by HISD officials for use in upgrading the childcare facilities.

However, principal Andria Schur said the bid for the ongoing 2012 bond project came in about $3 million over budget. This was due in part to rising construction costs, as things budgeted for 2012 have since seen a hike in costs. In the letter to parents, officials cite a “monetary deficit in the bond budget” for the school’s renovations. “We had to make some necessary changes and cuts to our funds to meet that,” Schur said. “Unfortunately the childcare service is one of those items along with other necessary cuts.” Efforts are currently being made to relocate the facility.

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Reagan High School JROTC program takes national title

Contributed Photos Reagan High School students have much to cheer for after the group’s JROTC program took home numerous first, second and third place awards from national competitions earlier this month.

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By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com Houston is now the home of the 2015 Grand National Drill Champions, thanks to an award-winning showing by the students of the Reagan High School JROTC “Rough Riders” program at the National High School Drill Team Championships competition May 6. First Seargent Micheal Anderson said years of hard work culminated in a wealth of awards during the competition, including the Grand National Championship Trophy, first place for Place Squad Exhibition Drill and Platoon Exhibition Drill, second place for National Solo Exhibition Performance, second place National Dual Exhibition Performance, and fourth place for both Regulation Drill Performance and Unit Inspection. The competitions were held in Daytona Beach, FL. Anderson said this is the first time RHS, let alone a Houston-area team, has ever won the Grand National title. “We had no idea we were going to be the ones to take the title,” Anderson said. “When they announced our names, not only did we go

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crazy but the whole stadium did the same thing.” Anderson said the win was a bit of an upset, as Fern Creek Traditional high School from Kentucky had been the reigning champ of the competitions for nearly 15 years. The students at Reagan were able to take the national title through diligent practice and engaging performances. “We practice five or six days a week here with two hours in the evening,” Anderson said. “We worked hard to change the silent guard routines to routines that make people want to get up and clap and sound off.” Students practice formations, movements, spinning and throwing rifles along with color guard processions. Students have to be ready to hold their own in front of four intimidating judges. “In the regulation phase,

they have to march perfectly and four judges walk around them,” Anderson said. “They don’t say anything to the students but they get as close as they can to intimidate them.” Anderson said principal Connie Berger has been ecstatic for the team to win at national competitions, and he praised school officials for supporting the program alongside the community. “The community has backed us and stayed with us and [Berger] has supported us through thick and through thin,” Anderson said. “If anyone needs us for color guard or drill team events, along with community service projects, the ROTC program is here to take care of the community. All they have to do is call.” For information about the Rough Riders, call 713-8654400.

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The Topics. Saturday, May 16, 2015 • Page 3A

Should we be uncertain about local economy?

I

t doesn’t matter if you’re shopping, having lunch with a business associate or driving down your street staring at all the “For Sale” signs suddenly appearing. No matter who you are, my guess is you’re concerned about Houston’s economy. And how could you not be? Our city’s most vital industry (arguably) is in a tailspin. Schlumberger has cut 11,000 employees, Baker Hughes has eliminated 10,500 positions, Halliburton another 9,000 and BP has announced layoffs but hasn’t said exactly how many. And that doesn’t even count all the smaller companies that lay off 100 here and 100 there. According to the Wall Street Journal, there have been more than 90,000 layoffs in the energy sector since crude oil prices began their fall last year, and the outlook isn’t great for the rest of this year. If you live in our area of Houston, you can knock on the door to the left or right of your house and it’s a good bet you’re talking to a person who works, in some form or fashion, in the energy business. For nearly two years, our newspaper and website have reported on the skyrocketing economy. Internally, we’ve grappled with different ways of writing the same headline: “Real Estate Market Booming.” We’ve reported on new construction, new businesses, new schools and new residents, largely

Jonathan McElvy Publisher

because Houston’s growth literally can’t contain itself. Yet every time I talk to a business owner – from bankers to builders – I keep hearing the same thing about our local economy. The only thing certain is uncertainty. Earlier this week, I had another one of my conversations with a local business owner about the economy, and he literally said the same thing I’ve heard for the past three months. “Some days it’s good, some days it isn’t.” To be honest, I’m tired of getting the same answer over and over again – “Nobody knows” – and I thought it might be beneficial to the conversation, especially to small businesses, to look at some data to find out how our economy is really doing. One of the best economic indicators we have is the amount of money our city takes in from sales tax revenue. The logic suggests that if people are spending less money, the city collects less in taxes. If you and I are spending more, the city is

collecting more. According to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, people in the city of Houston spent more money in March than in any other March, ever. Sales tax receipts in March (the latest data available) were $61.7 million. One year ago, in March 2014, receipts were $58.1. Sure, our population has increased over that span, but that just means more people are buying more. Here’s an even more interesting statistic. This past Christmas season, December 2014, the city of Houston collected $73.1 million in sales tax revenue. The previous shopping season, the city collected $67.0 million. This 10-percent increase in holiday spending happened at the same time crude oil prices plummeted. If that number doesn’t calm your fears a bit, maybe statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor will. In March 2015 (again, the latest data available), the Houston metro area had year-over-year job growth of 2.9 percent. Sure, that’s not the kind of growth we’ve seen the past three years, but it beats New York’s 1.9 percent or Chicago’s 1.4 percent, or Boston’s 1.5 percent. It’s also higher than the 2.3 percent increase we had nationally. What’s more interesting is where our job growth came in this metro area. Education and health services added 16,500 jobs in March 2015 compared to March 2014. That’s a

Some uncomfortable ‘realities’ of Jade Helm To: Members of the Texas State Guard From: Gov. Greg Abbott Subject: Defending Texas!!! My fellow patriots, Washington is once again trying to take over our beloved Lone Star State. It wasn’t enough that those Godless bureaucrats bought us off with bribes like the Houston Ship Channel, NASA, Medicare and Social Security. Now they are overtly invading Texas. There are reliable reports that “President” Obama will declare martial law as a prelude to a federal move to seize our personal weapons. They say 1,200 elite service members from four branches of the U.S. military, including Navy SEALS and Army Green Berets, will be coming here to stage “exercises” and “training.” Only 1,200? We can’t believe this administration. Just remember: “If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor,” and, “I am not a Muslim.” I suspect more like a million will come. That is why I am calling on you, members of the Texas State Guard, to monitor these troops. Defend our land with your walkers, canes and, if necessary, your AARP cards. As I wrote to Maj. Gen. Gerald Betty of the Texas State Guard, “During the training operation, it is important that Texans know their safety, constitutional rights, private property rights and civil liberties will not be infringed.” Incidentally, some of you are confusing the Texas Guard and the Texas National Guard. The latter is “National,” i.e. “Washington.” Need I say more? Here are a few suggestions to carry out your monitoring: You must keep an eye out for their positions, command structure, weapons and officers’ clubs. Report back to me on everything you see. Use this code term: Governor’s Office. It has been reported by my agents that the U.S. military already has slipped several units into Texas. Some 45.000 soldiers are already bivouacked at a secret spot code named Fort Hood. More are said to have gathered at a desolate desert oasis they call Fort Bliss. San Antonio may have thousands of members of the Air Force who have surreptitiously slipped in. We are looking into these rumors. What to investigate and report? Any gathering of more than 10 men and women is disguise. They can be spotted by their phony American-flag shoulder patches. (They stole the idea from Russian troops invading the Ukraine pretending to be peasants driving armored tractors.) Listen to these invaders. If they say things like “youse guys,” “fugetaboutit” and “Hillary for President,” take pictures. This invasion has been labeled Operation Jade Helm 15. And who is this Jade Helm 15? Maybe Gen. Jade Helm? My codebreakers are working on it. If captured, remember Nathan Hale’s famous quote; “Redcoats? Are you sure? I’m color blind.” Patriots in Bastrop, where some “training” is scheduled, have questioned a military spokesman in a twohour sometimes raucous meeting. The Bastropians have every right to be suspicious since the huge Bastrop fires of 2011 were reportedly caused by Agent Orange dropped by black helicopters, or perhaps Agent Black dropped by orange helicopters. We have conflicting reports. There is information from the federal government that Bastrop is not the only part of Texas to be terrorized by para-

4.8 percent increase over the prior year, while that number increased only 2.5 percent across the rest of the country. The DOL also says we added 15,900 jobs in trade, transportation and utilities (obviously with all the road construction), and our leisure and hospitality sector increased by 12,900 jobs this March compared to the same month last year. Professional and business services spiked by 10,700 jobs, construction added 8,600 jobs and government added 6,700, though I’m not always sure that’s a good thing, unless that’s how many police officers and fire fighters we added. All of these numbers come from March of this year, and they come at the same time energy companies were shutting down rigs and eliminating positions. If the sales tax revenue and jobs reports aren’t good enough for you, let’s look at one last economic indicator: home sales. We’ve all seen more “For Sale” signs in the yard, which we all assume is a bad thing, considering the frantic pace of home sales the past few years. HAR.com, the source for all things Houston real estate, recently published March statistics, and you won’t be surprised to learn there are more houses on the market. Inventory across the city is up 6.2 percent. Active listings were up 12.5 percent this March compared to last March. But here’s the statis-

tic I found most interesting: The average list price for homes in Houston in March was $276,445. The average sale price of homes (usually higher than list in great times, usually much lower in rough times) was $276,837. Sure, there are some homes that sell higher, and some that sell lower, but the law of averages says the price of homes is exactly what we’re asking for them. And that sale price of $276,837 in March 2015 is higher than the $251,955 sale price in March 2014, when the market boomed. I’ll offer one other tip, for those in the local market still “uncertain.” In the past week, there have been three prominent real estate stories published. First, Select Medical on 19th Street has announced it will close. Second, Heights Theater, just down the street, is for sale. Third, Wabash Feed on Washington has announced it will sell. Watch those three pieces of property and what happens to them. If they sit on the market, we have a right to worry. If Heights Theater and Wabash sell in an instant (which I think they will), and if Select leases out it’s building (which I also think they will), then I’d say we’re going to be just fine. In fact, I’d say most of the economic indicators point to a healthy, diverse economy, which is good news for us all. Email jonathan@theleadernews.com

The reader.

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Lynn Ashby Columnist

troopers, tanks and probably the First Marine Division invading Galveston. Some 16 other areas are scheduled to be “visited” by these invaders. Texas State Guards in Amarillo, guard the Pantex plant that supposedly is dissembling our nuclear bombs. How do we know they are not secretly assembling them? Check to see if any workers speak Arabic, or look Muslim, or even sound swarthy. My fellow patriots in Houston, we are told the Astrodome is empty. Really? A perfect place to hide a battalion of SEALS. We think we have intercepted a radio message from their headquarters: “Osama today – Channelview tomorrow.” Baytownians, is the USS Texas really out of service? Note that its 16-inch guns have been turned on Montrose. Sailors aboard the battleship are receiving information from scouts placed atop the San Jacinto Monument. Look for flashes from mirrors. Some left-wingers have questioned my authority to call up armed forces. Our state constitution specifically reads: “He shall have power to call forth the militia to execute the laws of the State, to suppress insurrections, and to repel invasions.” Note “to repel invasions.” Alas, in 1999 the governor lost a key command that goes with the job: ordering out the militia to suppress Indian raids and Mexican bandits. In light of the Dream Act, I plan to ask the Legislature to restore that power. If the Texas Rangers can’t handle an invasion, I am empowered to call out the National Guard. If more troops are required, then I use the State Guard. Also, I have at my disposal the Salvation Army and the Sons of Confederate Veterans License Plate Brigade. It is asked why I would oppose federal troops coming to Texas to train when I have asked for several thousand of them to guard our borders. The difference is simple: too many Oklahomans are sneaking in. Other commie-symps say my call to arms shows deep paranoia. I don’t think so and neither does my shrink, Dr. Shrunk, if that really is his name. He finds it not unusual that I attend his sessions while I lie underneath his couch. You can’t be too careful. There is also the charge that I am simply pandering to the lunatic fringe of the Republican Party. Nonsense. I don’t think so and neither does Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (and we know that’s not his name). Operation Jade Helm 15 is not the only Washington grab going on here. State Sen. Donna Campbell, Republican of New Braunfels, notes the Alamo has been nominated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. That is obviously a first step towards an outright seizure. Sen. Campbell has introduced a bill to prevent this theft. Good for her. Wherever these invaders go, whatever skullduggery they perform, they will be watched. Remember Washington, the spies of Texas are upon you! Ashby is hiding at ashby2@comcst.net

Photo by Christina Martinez Officials confirmed Select Specialty Hospital in the Heights will be shutting its doors.

Readers respond to the closing of Select Specialty Hospital in the Heights Dear Editor: Given the hospital location and service history, poor management is why it is closing. Jimmy (from www.theleadernews.com) Dear Editor: This is so unfair for the patients and employees. This company has been knowing about this for a long, long time. The employees worked so hard for many years and are not recieving a severance package. Ridiculous! Keisha (from www.theleadernews.com) Dear Editor: No severance package? That is so messed up. I bet the higher ups are getting theirs. Beetlejuice (from www.theleadernews.com) Dear Editor: I was a patient there and those employees don’t deserve this. They are kind, have the best doctors and staff. They deserve a package or to fight to stay. We would love for this hospital to stay. Best wound care and wound care clinic. I thought my wound would never heal and it did while other hospitals couldn’t. Thank you everybody. Concerned Reader (from www.theleadernews.com)

Dear Editor: It’s a shame that the employees and future patients are the ones that suffer. It’s wrong that the staff will not get severance packages, but if they do, it will not be competitive with other hospitals that have closed. Is Heights the first of the three Houston hospitals to close? Candy (from www.theleadernews.com)

If you learn Spanish, you might join the cartel

Dear Editor: If someone can’t communicate with me in English, that’s their problem, not mine. “Any person who opposes this plan is living in fear,” Horse manure. Quit making things up. (from www.theleadernews.com)

Spotlight on Inwood Forest: save green and go green Dear Editor: Sadly, it is next to impossible to find a house in Inwood Forest at this time. I have been looking since late 2014. Housing stock is very, very low. What is on the market is less than desirable and/or requires a lot of very expensive repair work. I plan to give it a couple more months before I completely walk away from Inwood Forest. Julie (from www.theleadernews.com)

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Pastor Coats leaving St. Matthews United Methodist Church By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com The Leader’s faith community will again be bidding farewell to a local church leader, as Pastor Frank Coats of the St. Matthews United Methodist Church will be leaving to take up a position at Lake Houston United Methodist Church in Huffman, TX. “As a Methodist pastor, it’s

part of our DNA,” Coats said. “It doesn’t catch any pastor completely by surprise to be moved.” Coats will be replaced by Reverand Virginia Wall, who currently serves as pastor to Wesley-McCabe United Methodist Church and Associate Pastor of Greggton United Methodist Church in Longview, TX. Wall has served in various roles in the church

for 15 years and, prior to moving to Longview, she held positions as a Case Manager, Social Worker and Social Work Supervisor with The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston for 16 years. Of his six years spent at St. Matthews, Coats said he was most happy with the “significant inroads” the church has made in reaching out to parents and children. It was his

wife, Brenda, who first had the idea for Children’s Church, which allows parents to enjoy church without looking after their children, and their kids enjoy church in their own way. “St. Mathews has a wonderful pre-school and we have benefited from our program at Durham Elementary School and our other outreach with kids,” Coats said. “We have our Boy Scout Troop and Brownie

Troop as some of the most significant groups, and we’ve tried to be as welcoming to as many people as possible.” Coats also thanked the community and his congregation for their continued support throughout the years. In particular, he thanked Mary Bordelon, the director of St. Matthew’s Children’s Weekday Program who has been “instrumental in the coming together

of the church and the school to be partners in ministry.” Coats said he was also thankful for the blessings from above. “The success of St Matthew’s over the last few years has been the result of a lot of people working hard, and of course nothing would have happened without the blessing of God,” Coats said.

Neighbors: Emerald Oaks Girl Scouts enjoy camp Robinwood By Elizabeth Villareal elizasgarden@outlook.com

Despite dire warnings of rain, the Girl Scouts of Emerald Oaks Community enjoyed a sunny day at camp Robinwood on Saturday, April 11. The day camp was given a MasterChef theme by Emerald Oaks’ Girl Advisory Board, with a patch and T-shirt designed by G.A.B. Member, Mireille Murphy. The day began with a flag ceremony performed by Junior Troop 24987. Then the day was filled with awesome activities including play dough making and apron painting for Brownies and Daisies lead by Rochelle Salazar and Safiyyah Bilal, and vagabond stove cooking for older girls

taught by Ronda Suarez, an amazing volunteer and former Girl Scout from outside our community. Scouts were taught songs by the motherdaughter team of Nancy and Shannon Boone. Girls were able to try their hand at canoeing or archery thanks to Susan Sides and archery instructor, Rosa Murphy, and to compete on the inflatable obstacle course and bungee run under supervision of leader, Jennifer Kurtz. Every Girl Scout event has a service project, so volunteers Vivienne Aceves and Shelley Roselius made it possible for Scouts to create cards to be delivered with senior meals through The Houston Food Bank. Older girls and their leaders also enjoyed

an activity hatched by the Girl Advisory Board (with the guidance of advisors Cindy Stafford and Alice Bohlae) called “5 Minutes of Fear” in which the girls were able to “slime” their leader with food. Everyone enjoyed a great sack lunch assembled by many volunteers lead by the event chair Eleonore Orgish. Yvonne Woolard served as our wandering photographer to provide every troop with a group photo as well as many more shots of the day’s adventures. Several troops chose to camp for the entire weekend and reportedly encountered critters of all descriptions to complete a true camp experience. Kudos to the many volunteers who helped to make this day

camp a complete success! Happy belated birthday to Kevin Dunn of Shepherd Park Terrace! Kevin blew out a special ginormous blooming birthday candle with friends and family including his mother, Glenda Dunn, wife Natalie Dunn, and son Zachariah Dunn. Wishing you many more happy birrthdays! Cheers! Friends send a happy birthday shout out to Joyce Lafarge Zajac of the Heights who celebrated her special day recently. God is great! All the time! Waltrip’s PTSA held its first annual silent auction and dinner dance this past weekend at

the Houston Liederkranz Hall and the theme was “Building a Community of Heroes.” Many of the people and businesses in our community are everyday heroes and Waltrip’s PTSA celebrates these heroes. PTSA would like to thank the sponsors and silent auction donors who made the evening possible. All funds raised will go towards programs for Waltrip’s students and teaching staff. Sincere thanks goes to sponsors Billy Hartman and Hartman & Associates; Hector Martinez and Taqueria El Tapatio on N. Shepherd; David Lorms of Lorms Insurance Services; Hospice Plus and Scott and Mindy Warren; Debbie and Kevin Hobart; David Jackson,

Attorney at Law; Wendy Prater, Attorney at Law; Fred Astaire Dance Studio; Papa Murphy’s Pizza on W. 43rd; LV Nails Spa on N. Shepherd; Dr. Gleem Car Wash; Maid in the Shade; Stephanie “Spoony” Witherspoon; Dr. Greg Green; Golden Wok Chinese Restaurant; SWATPT.com; Big Powerful Media and Kevin and Natalie Dunn; Tommye and Devin Welch; Kathy and Ricky Bowers; Shirley and Johnny Evanicky; Terry Jeanes; Mary and David Scarbrough; Susan and Larry Porterfield; Kimberly Antley; and Rachel Holcomb. Sincere thanks to you all for being real heroes in our community.

Preparing your pet for precarious weather

Dear Tabby, It seems like it’s been an extra stormy spring here in Texas. I’m wondering if you have any tips on how to make sure that our pets are prepared in the case of a storm disaster in our area? Weather watcher in Woodland Heights

Dear Weather Watcher, You’re wise to start thinking of this now. This spring has seen rough weather all over the country as well as tornadic activity in the Dallas area. And as we all know, beginning June 1, we’ll be facing hurricane season. While the skies are clear and calm is the best time to formulate a plan for what you’d do to protect yourself and your furry companions in the face of a storm. When disaster does strike, the good folks at Hill’s Pet Nutrition deploys its Disaster Relief Network to quickly respond with shipments of pet food. Hill’s established the

first-of-its-kind network in 2013 as a way to coordinate with shelter partners to deliver food to communities impacted by disaster. Since the program began, the Hill’s network has delivered over $280 million worth of food, helping over 8 million pets find a new home. In partnership with the SPCA of Texas, Hill’s Pet Nutrition has compiled a list of helpful ideas to ensure that you and your pets are able to weather a storm safely. Here is what they suggest that you do to prepare: • Ensure your pet can be identified by either a micro-

chip or collar ID tag and that contact information is up-todate. • Prepare a “Pet Emergency Go-Kit” of pet supplies that is readily accessible in an emergency. Your Pet Go-Kit should include: first aid supplies and guide book; threedays’ supply of pet food (in a waterproof container) and bottled water; a safety harness and leash; waste cleanup supplies; medications and medical records; a contact list of veterinarian and pet care organizations; information on your pet’s feeding routine and any behavioral issues; comfort toys; and a blanket.

• Display a pet rescue decal on your front door or window to let first responders know there is a pet in the house. Include your veterinarian’s contact information. • Learn where your pet likes to hide in your house when frightened. Finding your pet quickly will help you evacuate faster. • Identify a location to take your pet if you need to leave your immediate area. Keep in mind that disaster shelters for people may not be open to pets. Scout hotels and motels with pet-friendly policies and ask relatives or friends if they could house you and your

pet. • Carry a picture of your pet in the event of separation. • If you need to evacuate, consider taking a pet carrier or crate for transport and safekeeping. While it’s always best to be safe rather than sorry during storm season, many of these tips apply to everyday emergencies too. With some forethought and care, you can ensure that you and your pets are well taken care of in the face of any hazard. Do you have a question for Tabby? If so, email her at dear tabbyquestions@gmail.com.

Pet of the Week

BOOK

YOUR TIME

ONLINE Meet Baby. This 4 month old Doberman/Lab mix is already 20 lbs and will be a large gal when she’s grown. The Doby part of Baby will make a great “watchdog,” but the Lab part won’t do much about the situation. Baby is a little shy, but warms up quickly and loves to play. Don’t you think that Baby could give you the time of your life? If so, contact Citizens for Animal Protection at www.cap4pets. org to learn more.

The Obituaries. Eusebia G. Aguirre, 77, born June 5, 1937 in Nueces County, died

Scheduling your next appointment just got simpler. Memorial Hermann’s online scheduling tool, ScheduleNow, lets you schedule and confirm your appointment with just a few clicks. Visit our website to choose the best time and reserve your spot today at the Memorial Hermann location near you.

PCP s • s P e C i a l i s t s

May 9. She is survived by her children, Israel Aquirre, Javier Aguirre, Celina Aguirre, Hilda Dailey and Sandra Ramirez, brother Alberto Garza, and eight grandchildren.

MaMMograMs • ColonosCoPies

Kimberly Michelle Bilnoski, 35, born Dec. 15, 1979, died May 7. She attended Catholic schools in the Houston area and graduated from St. Pius X High School in 1998 where she was an active member of the cheerleading squad, volleyball team, swim team, and various other organizations. She later attended Sam Houston State University. Bilnoski is survived by her parents George and Bobbie Bilnoski, brother Joseph Bilnoski, and sister Stacy McEnaney. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose of Lima Catholic School, 3600 Brinkman St., Houston 77018 or St. Pius X High School, 811 W. Donovan St., Houston 77091.

h e a rt & s t r o k e s C r e e n i n g s

P h y s i C a l t h e r a P y • er s

memorialhermann.org

Norman Ferreira, 75, born Sept. 4, 1939, died Feb. 22. Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. May 16, at Heights Funeral Home, 1317 Heights Blvd. Patricia Anne Walschburger, 74, born 1941, died May 4, in Houston. Walschburger loved to travel extensively as part of the Air Stream club, WBCCI. She was a great artist, cook and seamstress, and gave of her time to the Catholic Charities. She is survived by her husband of 57-years, Fred Walschburger, daughter, Deborah and husband Emmett Clendennen, son Ricky Walschburger, sister Linda Holt and husband Nick, and granddaughter Taylor Clendennen. Carolyn Kendrick Williams, 67, born Feb. 14, 1948, died May 6. Williams grew up in the north side of Houston and attended Peter Janowski Elementary, Burbank Jr. High, and graduated from Sam Houston Senior High School. She is survived by her sons, Andy and Dennis Williams, daughters Caroline Williams and Hayley Parks, and six grandchildren.

L O C AT E D AT 61 0 A N D E L L A B LV D

Saturday, May 16, 2015 • Page 5A

The calendar. BREAKFAST CONNECTION Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce Come for breakfast and hear a panel discuss the changes coming in October to credit card processing for all merchants and consumers. Find out what business owners need to do to prepare for the new requirements. The breakfast will be from 6:45-8 a.m. May 14, at Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel, 3000 N. Loop West. Information: 713-861-6735, info@ heightschamber.com. COMMUNITY DANCE SPJST Lodge 88 The SPJST Lodge 88, 1435 Beall St., will host Good, Bad and Ugly, Country Western music, from 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. May 15. Jerry and Merry, Big Band music, will be from 8-11:30 p.m. May 16. There is a dress code for the May 16 dance. The cost is $15 per person. Reservations are suggested, but not required. Reservations held only 30 minutes past start of dance. Information: 713-8695767, lodge88.org. SONS OF 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 May 15, from 6 p.m. until sold out. Information: 713-682-9287, www.americanlegionpost560.org. FOOD, WINE AND FUNDRAISING: A NIGHT OUT IN BROOKE SMITH Enjoy a casual outdoor evening at a local establishment, Lemond

Catering, 612 Archer St. 77009, to benefit new landmark signs for the neighborhood. The event will be from 6:30-10 p.m. May 16. Tickets are available for $50 and include lite bites, two adult beverages, keepsake wine glass, participation in silent auction, and opportunity to sample brews from Town in City Brewery. Guests must be 21 and older. Information: 361-319-9712, angelica@montiebeach.org. THE BOOK OF ETHAN READING River Oaks Bookstore Oak Forest resident Russell J. Sanders will be reading from and signing his newest novel The Book of Ethan at River Oaks Bookstore, 3270 Westheimer, from 3-5 p.m. Saturday, May 16. This is his third novel. Information: www.dreamspinnerpress. com.

Sing Out competition at St. Monica Participate in the Sing Out competition at St. Monica Catholic Church, 8421 W. Montgomery Rd. Auditions will be from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. May 16. The donation entry fee is $10. The three competitive divisions are: Elementary School, Middle School and High School. Registration is required. Contact Jamel Rosemond for information at singout.eventbrite.com or call 713-244-4240. Have a say in the future of All Saints The Pastoral Council of All

2015 BOARD FAIR United Way of Greater Houston Meet with representatives of more than 30 area nonprofit organizations actively recruiting candidates for board service. The fair will help potential volunteers learn more about the community and to discover opportunities to build leadership skills. The fair will be from 5-6:30 p.m. May 20, at the United Way Resource Center, 50 Waugh Dr. Admission is free. Call or email for reservations. Information: nonprofitconnection@unitedwayhouston.org, 713-685-2787.

Williams Winfield, senior director of constituent services and community affairs, will give out certificates. All nonagenarians (people in their nineties) are also welcome. Waltrip High School Jazz band will be honoring centenarians under the direction of Jesse Espinoza, director. They will perform some old favorites. The event will have a patriotic theme. Information: 713-869-1449. MONTHLY HAPPY HOUR HYPO Bring business cards and take advantage of this excellent networking opportunity. The Heights Young Professionals Organization will meet from 5-8 p.m. May 28, at Cottonwood, 3422 N. Shepherd Dr. Information: 713-8616735, info@heightschamber.com.

ALL ABOUT WOUNDS Memorial Hermann Northwest Assessment of the Skin: All About Wounds is an educational course and wound care fair that will be held from 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. May 18. Registration is required. The $30 registration fee will also include 6.0 Nursing Contact Hours for completing the course. Information: 713854-2504, shannon.brown@ restorixhealth.com.

SATURDAY GRAND OPENING Adolf Hoepfl Garage Adolf Hoepfl Garage, 4610 N. Shepherd, is kicking off their Now Open Saturday’s in grand style. Bring your vehicle in from 8-10 a.m. and get free wiper blades with any service. Come celebrate Liberty Tree Gifts and Gallery’s first year anniversary. There will also be local vendors. The event will be from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. May 23. Information: www.eventbrite. com, 713-695-5071.

SURVIVOR’S CELEBRATION OF LIFE Memorial Hermann Come to Memorial Hermann’s annual cancer survivors’ celebration. Browse the wellness-oriented resource fair, shop the market and enjoy a healthy light lunch. Humorist Sally Baskey will be the keynote speaker. The event will be held May 29, from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Westin Memorial City, 3rd floor. Registration is required. Information: 713-2222273.

LADIES CAR CARE CLINIC Adolf Hoepfl Garage Learn to care for your carriage and still be a princess. Learn what to do in emergency situations and five tips to preserve expensive parts on a vehicle. The

CENTENARIANS HONORED Christ the King Catholic Church Christ the King Catholic Church, 4419 N. Main St., will honor all centenarians in the area, from 3-4 p.m. May 26. A representative of Ellen Cohen’s office, Janae

BOWLING FUNDRAISER MANNA MANNA (Ministry Assistance of the Near Northwest Alliance), is having a bowling fundraising event from 7-11 p.m., May 30, at Delmar Lanes, 3020 Mangum

From the Pews.

Great Taste of the Heights at All Saints Come out and enjoy a night of food, fun and festivities at All Saints Catholic Community, 215 E. 10th St. The event will be from 5-10 p.m. May 16. Tasting time is 6-10 p.m. Tickets are $25 pre-sale and $35 at the door, based on availability. Tickets are on sale in the administration building Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or at Eclectic Home, C&D Hardware and Chatters Cafe and Bistro. Call 713-864-2653 or visit www.greattasteoftheheights. com for information.

workshop will be held at Adolf Hoepfl Garage, 4610 N. Shepherd Dr., from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. May 20. The cost is $10 per person. Space is limited, call to reserve a spot. Information: 713-695-5071.

Saints Catholic Community, 215 E. 10th St., has identified possible future goals for the next 10 years. Participate in this one hour focus group and provide input. The meetings will be in the parish hall from 7-8 p.m. May 19, and from 9:30-10:30 a.m. May 23. Please note this is not a fund-raising activity. Call 713-864-2653 or email howeloween@gmail.com for information. Methodism 101 at St. Stephen’s All who would like to learn more about the United Methodist Church are welcome to attend “Methodism 101,� led by Pastor Kevin Otto, Sundays at 9:40 a.m. in Room 203. The study, which covers basic history, structure, beliefs and ministries of the Methodist Church, will continue through May 24. St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. Call 713-686-8241 or visit www.stsumc.org for information. ‘Spare’ some time for MANNA MANNA is hosting its Bowling fundraiser, “Spare� Some Time for MANNA, from 711 p.m. May 30, at Del-Mar

Lanes, 3020 Mangum. Get a team together and come out and have some fun and help the community. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets can purchased at http://sparesometimeformanna.eventbrite.com. Be a “300 Game Bowler� sponsor and you and your guests will be chauffeured to the bowling alley in a Mercedes Benz party van. Deadline for sponsorship opportunities and tickets is May 15. Call 713-504-5486 or email pdornak@gmail.com for information.

will feature Rhythms of Grace Houston Heights, a worship experience for people with special needs. This monthly alternative service welcomes all faith traditions, ages and abilities. The service is held every Sunday at 2 p.m. in the parish hall. For information, call 713861-5596 or visit www.saecAd # 36774 heights.org.

New Beginnings Happen Here

Sunday Worship - 10:30am Bible Study: Wednesday Noon - 1:30pm Bible Study: 2nd & 4th Tuesday 7:00 - 8:30pm Reverend Noelie Day

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Rhythms of Grace at St. Andrew’s St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1819 Heights Blvd.,

Guide (Disciples of Christ)

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

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

Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship10:45 AM

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

1624 W 34th • 713-686-7689 www.gospeltruthchurch.org

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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

Mange occurs in dogs, cats and sometimes spreads to humans. It can cause wide spread hair loss, itching and/or skin infection. It is caused by microscopic mites that live in or on the skin requiring microscopic tests to conďŹ rm their presence. It is not always an easy diagnosis or treatment. There are different types of mange and effective treatments are completely different. Only your veterinarian is college educated to diagnose and medically treat mange in pets safe and effectively. Because parasite treatments and preventatives have changed in the last 10 to 20 years, mange cases have increased. They also can be elusive from diagnosis because many of these parasites products are only weak treatments for mange or are not used correctly. This allows mange to thrive or remain undetected. Only after testing for all parasites, examining your pet and consulting, can a veterinarian prescribe the Best Parasite Prevention for Your Pet, that will treat mange also. If your pet is scratching or loosing hair, the mange mite could be the problem.

Always call your Vet if you have any concerns or questions

$ '0 ,)1 ,'+ * !*','! 8 8 8 '" * 3 # " / , 4 7 & 5 4 6 * 5 & $ 0 . 7151 Fairbanks N. Houston

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. www.gethsemanelutheran.org

Member of MANNA

(713)-937-7274

(1 mile North of HWY 290)

CROWNS CAN’T GET CAVITIES... CAN THEY?!

West 34th St.

Oaks Christian ChurCh Oaks Presbyterian Church

It Might Be Mites

(Between Ella & T.C. Jester)

Lowest Prices in Town!

Jewerly, Initials Inc., Glass Flowers, Sweet Olive Creations, Jamberry Nails, Stephanie’s Treasure Chest, Damsel In Defense, Just Fabulous Brands, Mam’s Snoballs, First Church Heights, Gramcracker Design, Haute Dimensions and CARisma Wash. The event is free and will be held at Haute Dimensions, 6521 N. Main St., from noon-6 p.m. May 30. Information: www.eventbrite.com, 713-2536507.

SUNSET HEIGHTS BOUTIQUE EVENT Haute Dimensions Shop local boutiques and find the perfect outfit and accessories. The shopper’s paradise for May includes: Crissy’s Lashes, YDH

Aztec Storages

The Interior Castle performance at St. Maximilian Kolbe Continue the centenary celebration of St. Teresa of Avila with a musical theatrical presentation of “The Interior Castle.� The event is hosted by the Discalced Secular Carmelites and Friends of Carmel and will be presented at St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church, 10135 West Rd., at 7 p.m. June 6. The cost is $20 each ticket. Call 713-542-4706 or 936436-9113 for information.

ChurCh

Road. Bowling teams are needed to sign up and all sizes of sponsorship are available. There will also be a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased online. Sign up no later than May 16. Information: 713-504-5486, http://sparesometimeformanna.eventbrite. com/

Chase Baker, D.D.S.

S

o you’ve had a crown placed over a tooth in order to protect and restore the tooth. Now, you’re in the clear. You don’t need to worry about having any further problems with that tooth because a crown can’t have a cavity on it, right? WRONG. Having a crown placed does not mean that the dental hygiene around that area can be neglected. Decay can still form at the margin of the crown where the tooth and the crown meet. It is extremely important that continued oral hygiene is diligently maintained. Regular check-ups along with x-rays with your dentist can ensure that your existing crowns are monitored. This ensures that if any problems arise, they are caught early and addressed as necessary. Be sure to follow up with your dentist to be certain the investment you’ve made with your teeth is in tip-top shape. Prepared as a public service to promote better dental health. From the ofďŹ ce of: Chase Baker, D.D.S., 3515 Ella Blvd., 713-682-4406.

MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

Don’t Worry About your oWn HAppiness

O

ne of the supreme ironies of human nature is the fact that being overly concerned about our own happiness usually diminishes it, while working diligently to improve the welfare of others usually adds to our own happiness. And, while it is true that we should be the primary caretakers of our own welfare, and should tend to our own health, education and well-being with care, it is still the case that being overly concerned with our own happiness almost always interferes with it. Happiness is usually a byproduct of other activities. Perform your work well and you’ll probably feel good about it. Cultivating your relationships with family and friends pays big dividends in terms of our happiness. Limit your desires for material things. Greed and envy are preventable obstacles to happiness; money and material things are a very fleeting source of satisfaction. So, do what you can to help others, and do it with a pure heart, seeking only the good of the other and not your own.- Christopher Simon You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you. John Bunyan

You are cordially invited to the church that can guide you in what you must do to be saved.

it is the norhill Church of Christ.

Hear The Gospel - Mark 16:15; Roman 10: 14-17 Believe The Gospel - John 8:24; Hebrews 11:6 Repent - Luke 17:3-5; Acts 17:30 Confess - Mathew 10:32; Romans 10:9-10 Be Baptized - Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Col 2:11-13 Live Faithfully Till Death - John 8:31; Revelation 2:10; Hebrew 10:23 The Norhill Church of Christ is a non-denominational church located in the near north side of Houston in the inner loop 77009 area. It has operated as a church of Christ since 1927, it is located at 634 West Cottage on the corner of West Cottage and Reagan streets. The Norhill Church of Christ teaches only the Bible, without reference to any man-originated creed. Bible study services for all ages are held at 9:30am Sunday mornings. Sunday morning Worship begins at 10:15am. Sunday evening worship is at 6:00pm Wednesday evening worship and Bible study is held at 7:30pm. Norhill welcomes everyone to attend worship or Bible study to learn more about the truth of the Bible.

www.noRHiLLCoC.oRG

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

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

1700 West 43 rd at Rosslyn 713-682-4942

Pastor – Dr. Richard Walters

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

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

Page 6A • Saturday, May 16, 2015

Zoning from P. 1A Djambov also is concerned about the effect that rezoning would have on property values in the area. There are also many Sinclair families not directly affected by the rezoning who are opposed to it. Lazybrook resident Crystal Hansen says that she feels tightly connected to the residents of Shady Acres. “We’ve established this really great community and it would be gone,� she said. “We would be devastated.� Hansen, along with more than 100 other people, have signed an online petition started four days ago to support her friends. “I’ve thought a lot about why Sinclair is so important to me - it really is a neighborhood school which can be challenging in an urban setting,� she said. Love Elementary PTO President Shawn Bonsen does understand the feelings of people in Shady Acres because “you’ve moved to a house zoned to a certain school.� Bonsen, who used to live in the Heights, has never been zoned to Love but sends her daughter there because it was the best fit for her. While she acknowledges that enrollment has been down at the school due to the changing economy of the area, she thinks the addition of a dual language program next year will kick start more interest in Love. If the HISD proposal goes through, Bonsen said the Love community will receive their new classmates warmly. “Love has always been a really welcoming place,� said Bonsen. While some Shady Acres residents say that they think that the proposal is a forgone conclusion, Harvin Moore

who represents District VII in HISD said it’s not a done deal. “It’s an administrative proposal,� he said. “The board will decide to pass it or not.� Moore, who said he would not support the zoning change for Sinclair, said that the most compelling argument to him is that there is not a pressing reason to change the zone. He said that when HISD applied for its waivers last year for those classes that were over the 22 to 1 state ratio, the TEA granted their request, as it always has done. Sinclair has 536 students, but they are only 11 students over the state class limit, according to Moore. If there is an urgent need to reduce the number of children in a few classes, Moore said it could be done with capping classes and a waitlist system or a reduction in magnet transfers. He believes that the question of urgency should be a school based decision. “We need to leave the [existing] attendance zone for the stability of the neighborhood,� said Moore. Moore believes his colleagues will look at the facts at Thursday’s board meeting and see that his constituents are not in favor of it. He encourages those who want their voices to be heard on the matter to register with HISD to attend the 5 p.m. meeting by 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 13. Sinclair and Love are not the only Leader area schools to be affected by the proposal. While Love picks up new zoned students from Sinclair, they lose some to Memorial Elementary. Sinclair not only loses students northeast of TC Jester but also to the southwest of Hempstead Highway;

Leigh’s from P. 1A have a tremendous support system in the community of the Heights,� said Martin. “During our latest stay at the hospital, neighbors and friends brought meals to my husband and daughter at home. Our neighbors are all so kind. For example, during Halloween, our neighbors come down the steps of the houses with treats so Will does not have to get our of his stroller. We are so grateful to them.� Currently, young Will has four dark spots or lesions on his brain that affect his speech, balance and coordination. He also tires quickly. “The good part of our last hospital stay is that an MRI determined that there are no new lesions. The doctors are pleased with that,� Martin said. There is still more good news. On May 14, the People Against Leigh’s Syndrome, or PALS, are holding their third annual fund raising event. Collectively, the past two events raised more than $150,000 which is going to the salary of the world’s only known, full-time Leigh’s Syndrome researcher. She is conducting her research in conjunction with the UT Mitochondrial Center of Excellence and many people could benefit. “I always like to remind people that, if we can unlock the mystery of Leigh’s Syndrome, there are other mitocondrial disorders that may realize some advancement. ALS, Parkinson’s Disease and even Alzheimer’s have a mitocondrial component. All could enjoy the outcomes from this research.� The PALS event is being held at St. Arnold’s Brewery on Lyons Ave. and those in attendance will enjoy some of the finest boutique brews in Houston. Bar-b-que will be served from Goode Company. Additionally, there will be a silent auction, a raffle and several speakers including Will’s own physician, pediatric neurologist Dr. May Kay Koenig. And the cost of a ticket? Only $55 per person. To RSPV to the PALS’ event go to: http://www.memorialhermann.org/give-volunteer/foundation/pals/. If you cannot attend the event but would like to contribute to research you can do so online or send the contribution form to Memorial Hermann Foundation, 929 Gessner, Ste. 2650, Houston, 77024.

Parents are voicing their concerns over the proposed adjustments to attendance boundaries that could potentially rezone their children from Sinclair Elementary to Love Elementary.

however it picks up some of Stevens Elementary’s school zone. Likewise, Stevens gets some students from Katherine Smith Elementary. Crockett Elementary gains students from Memorial and a small portion of Travis Elementary while losing a small portion to Harvard Elemen-

tary. “It creates a domino effect,� said Moore, who noted that the class size issues are a bigger issue at other nearby schools. The fix for those schools trickles down to Sinclair. “If HISD decides that their primary tool for managing class sizes is to chance attendance zone

boundaries, even if you aren’t affected this time, you can expect this will happen again to a school near you.� For results of Thursday’s board meeting, see The Leader online.

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Childcare from P. 1A In a statement from United Way, senior program manager Katherine von Haefen expressed her disappointment over the decision to close the childcare center. “We are saddened by the decision to close the Bright Beginnings childcare center at Waltrip High School, which has a dedicated and talented team of teachers who have consistently provided high quality early education to children,� Haefen said. “We have asked HISD to consider an alternate site to relocate this center in order to continue providing this much needed service to parents and children in this community.� “We’re all saddened by it,� Schur said. “We’re hoping another local church or school that has the physical space can welcome them as the equipment and the support are there.� A meeting between parents and school officials was held May 13, and Maugans said she hopes the school will ultimately keep the childcare program open or help them try to find a new place. “I’m trying not to be a hot-head about it,� Maugans said. “I know their responsibility is to the students, but we’re just trying to figure out what they’re trying to do and some of us feel left out. I know there are other day cares out there but this is our community.�

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Saturday, May 16, 2015 • Page 7A

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Contributed Photo Owlivia (pictured above) and Owlexander hung out for a while in Lear’s yard before they decided to nest in his owl house, purchased from owlshack.com.

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Owls from P. 1A exander) and a larger greyish female (Owlivia). “Owlexander would periodically fly to the sill of the box to check it out, but I had learned that owls prefer tree branches for roosting in the hot summer months,” said Lear. “I was just hopeful that familiarity with the presence of the box would lead the pair to use it for nesting come springtime. Totally smitten, I purchased and read cover-tocover a 300-page book: The Eastern Screech Owl: Life History, Ecology, and Behavior in the Suburbs and Countryside by Frederick R. Gehlbach. So over the last year, I learned a great deal about screech owls.” Having read Professor Gehlbach’s book, Lear said he was pleased but not surprised when in mid-March of this year Owlivia settled into the box to nest. “She stopped hunting through the night - indicating that she had laid her eggs - and Owlexander came backand-forth to the box to bring her tasty morsels,” said Lear. “The little owlets appeared right on schedule according to the timetable presented in Professor Gehlbach’s book. I’ve been having a ball the last few days watching Screech and Song peeping out of the box and sitting on the sill.” The recent appearance of Thurston Owl the Third was

another cause for excitement. “I had observed how my relatives and many of my friends enjoyed my owl updates, and I figured that my neighbors would enjoy a

glimpse as well,” said Lear. “I mean, what’s not to love about baby owls? I’ve enjoyed photographing both the parents and the babies - owls have so much personality.”

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Page 8A • Saturday, May 16, 2015

Run the Grove nets $2,500 for West 11th Street Park

Green for Green By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com Residents in Timbergrove Manor are calling a large donation to the local West 11th Street Park a big first step in supporting the community and the park following the inaugural Run the Grove 5k event several months ago. Michael Norvell, president of the Timbergrove Manor Neighborhood Association said it was all about the future of the area and its greenspace as he and other officials handed off a $2,500 check to the Friends of West 11th Street Park, raised by the 5k run earlier this year. Norvell said it was the culmination of about a years worth of work and, more importantly, the start of a signature event for the community. “The turnout for Run the Grove was outstanding,” Norvell said. “It was about four times what we were originally expecting. We had a lot of support from the immediate area and local businesses and that’s the best part of it.”

Lorraine Cherry, one of the leaders of the Friends of West 11th Street Park, said the group has been working hard for the last six years to complete the half-mile trial inside of the park finished, but going back the group found several spots that need to be raised to help with drainage. “A chunk of this money will go towards finally finishing that trail and another chunk will be going to do some maintenance on the oldest part of the trail,” Cherry said. “Right now our biggest financial contributions are generally aimed at the trail. We want people to come in to the park and we want it to be a fun, pleasant, nice experience – we don’t want them to have to be walking through bogs. We’re almost there and, with this money, we should get there. One of the biggest challenges came with showing those interested in participating that the event was “bonafide.” “Assuring people that we were legit and it was a real thing, including convincing

ourselves of that, it was the hardest part,” Norvell said. “It wasn’t until maybe three months before the event that we realized we had some momentum. For the last three weeks that momentum was

incredible.” Norvell said the community has already started planning for next year’s run and are starting to name the event organizers for 2016. “We’re going to have our

business and community sponsors lined up and we want to start putting out the word earlier on, perhaps in the Fall, so we can generate more local excitement,” Norvell said.

More information about the park can be found online at www.west11thstreetpark.org. For information about next year’s Run the Grove, visit www.tmnaonline.org.

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A practical easy-to -understand approach to vehicle maintenance Photo by Jonathan Garris Members of the Timbergrove Manor Neighborhood Association met with the Friends of West 11th Street Park May 9 to pass on a $2,500 check for maitenance and park upgrades. Lorraine Cherry (center), said the donation will be instrumental in finishing the park’s inner trail.

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