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Saturday, July 18, 2015 • Vol. 60 • No. 37

Revised Historic Preservation ordinance removes term limits By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

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

AREA SPECIALIST

Houston officials are inviting residents out to a public hearing July 22 regarding the long-awaited proposed revisions of the Historic Preservation Ordinance. The proposed ordinance removes and alters large swaths of text from the original ordinance, including the removal of a number of stipulations in Sec. 33-238, pertaining to the application process. Numerous definitions are also expanded upon or clarified, such as defining height as it pertains to the ordinance (the vertical distance from the existing natural grade) and the definition of new construction (a freestanding building or structure proposed to be constructed within a historic district designated by city council, whether that building or structure is on the location of a vacant lot with another structure on it).

One small, but rather key, addition comes in Sec. 33-211, which focuses on the qualifications of the HAHC. According to the proposed changes, each member of the 13 person commission shall be a “person who has knowledge and experience in the archaeological, architectural, cultural, social, economic, ethnic or political history of the city” while adding that they “must have a known and demonstrated, competence, or knowledge in historic preservation within the city.” Appointments for members has also been adjusted – while members can be appointed to serve consecutive terms, the proposal removes the text related to serving no more than three, full consecutive terms. Another addition to the ordinance focuses on the issuance of certificates of appropriateness. While reviewing applications, the HAHC or director shall now “consider any elements of the propsoed activity that may be necessary to

Be Heard Houston officials will keep the public comment period open for the proposed changes to the Historic Preservation Ordinance until July 27. Public comments can be directed to the following: Telephone 832-393-6556 Mail HPO Review Planning & Development Dept. PO Box 1562 Houston, TX 77251-1562 Email historic.ordinance@houstontx.gov

See Ordinance, P. 8A

Collision Correction Ê , < 832.419.9969

INSIDE.

Photo by Kim Hogstrom Two young students enjoy some time with their instructor at the Harriet and Joe Foster YMCA at 34th Street in Garden Oaks.

Keeping with tradition Landa Café, which occupies the former home of Texas Enchilada on West Crosstimbers Street, is using its traditional Mexican menu to attract old-school and new-school clientele. Julio Garza also previously owned Casa Grande, and draws on plenty of experience

Find it on 1B

By Kim Hogstrom For The Leader

Rice Military fights speeding, accidents with new traffic management program

until Cohen intervened. “Unfortunately, the NTMP program typically involves a lengthy wait time due to budget constraints within the Public Works and Engineering Department,” Cohen said in a letter to DeBaldo. Cohen said she dedicated the $40,000 from the Council District Service Budget to fund Rice Military’s application within the NTMP to “accelerate the implementation of traffic-calming solutions.”

The summer is here, and “it’s hotter ‘an July” in the ‘hood. As ready as families might be to take a dip in the surrounding pools across Leaderarea communities, it’s important to keep in mind the dangers involved in water recreation – and community resources to help teach children the importance of water safety. For example, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in children, and Texas sees the second largest numbers of drownings in the nation, lead only by Florida. There have been 43 child drownings in Texas this year so far. Notably, the Houston area takes the dubious award for the most in the state - about 22 percent of the total every year. This fact has not escaped staff members at the Harriet and Joe Foster YMCA on 34th St. in Garden Oaks. “We have made it our goal to eliminate childhood drownings in Houston,” said Rosemary Lengefeld, Community Executive Director of the Foster YMCA. “The Y is doing that in several ways. We offer our traditional swim lessons to children and

See Accidents, P. 2A

See Safety, P. 7A

By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

Elizabeth Villarreal REALTOR®

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INSIDE.

Holding on to the Hops In this month’s Behind the Bar, The Leader sits down with Nicholas Herndon of Petrol Station to talk about his love of IPAs, serving beer and how his job at the popular local watering hole offers opportunities both profesionally and to experience new brews.

Find it on 2B

The INDEX. Church

YMCA helps kids with aquatic summer safety

6A

Classifieds

4B

Coupons

5A

Food/Drink/Art Obituaries

1B 2A

Opinion

4A

Public Information Puzzles

2A 4A

As the president of the Rice Military Civic Club, Andrea DeBaldo knows first hand her neighborhood’s frustration with what some are calling frequent traffic accidents and near-accidents in the area. Now, with the help of council member Ellen Cohen’s office, the group is hoping to utilize $40,000 to help fund its Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. DeBaldo says most are still frustrated, but optimistic, about the funds awarded to the neighborhood for its NTMP. Over the past few months, citizens living along thoroughfares like Detering and Feagan have been sending her photos and short reports on the numerous accidents and near-misses in the area. In a letter to DeBaldo, Cohen said she has received regular reports from residents in Rice Military since taking office in January 2012 describing the accidents “due to poor infrastructure and mobility in the neighborhood.” “I moved here in 2012 and the traffic was also an issue then,” DeBaldo said. “The biggest issue we have are speeders, as some people drive very fast and we have very narrow streets.” The NTMP allows Houston officials to review issues like excessive speed, signage placement and cut-through traffic and also allows for the installation of devices like speed bumps, extra stop signs and curb extensions. The civic club previously completed an application for NTMP measures several years ago; however little has come of it

Contributed Photos Rice Military residents have meticulously documented accidents and near-misses resulting from drivers they say are wreaking havoc in their neighborhood. Their voices have been heard by Houston City Council member Ellen Cohen, but now the group is wondering just how far their newfound program can take them as far as keeping their streets safe.

Sparring with Inspiration: Timbergrove girl channels inner Chuck Norris with karate By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

Rebekah Robinson wasn’t always comfortable on the stage. She remembers having to give a speech in second grade at Travis Elementary and escaping to the bathroom. Flash forward seven years though and Rebekah is doing a full split on stage at the Black Middle School Talent show to the cheers of her class. And just how did she get there? Would you believe Chuck Norris had something to do with it? Penny Robinson said that her oldest daughter Jennifer was the first to get involved with karate at Hamilton Middle School. She was in the KICKSTART KIDS program there which was founded by Chuck Norris in 1992. According to the mission of KICK-

START KIDS, the program is intended to “change and save children’s lives by building strong moral character in our youth through the martial arts.” According to Penny, that’s exactly what it has done. “The program has benefitted both of our daughters,” she said. “They have grown in confidence, physical ability, and social inclusion.” For Rebekah, who has Down Syndrome, as for any child, having a place to belong is no small thing. Rebekah saw what her sister was doing in karate and didn’t waste any time getting started herself. In second grade, she signed up at White Tiger Martial Arts with John Mueller. “Over seven and a half years, Mr. Mueller patiently invested many hours of instruction time, encouraging her to practice, and awarding new belts for

skill levels she attained,” said Penny. Rebekah also began to attend karate tournaments. While she competed mostly in the handicapable or special needs divisions, she has also competed with her peers according to belt level. Her older sister enjoyed sparring. Rebekah competes in Traditional Forms or Kata, and in the Weapons division, with a Bo staff. At Frank Black Middle School, Rebekah joined the KICKSTART KIDS program headed up by Derrick Stinson. Because she was doing karate in two places, Rebekah really got the opportunity to progress in the sport. Penny says that Mr. Stinson was also very patient with her daughter, spending time with her in class and also at See Karate, P. 3A

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The public. Saturday, July 18, 2015 • Page 2A

Police Reports • July 4 - July 7 JULY 4

Theft 11 AM 5600-5699 YALE

Burglary 10 AM 2300-2399 N SHEPHERD Theft 10:30 PM 4100-4199 WASHINGTON Assault 10:30 PM 2600-2699 WASHINGTON Burglary 2 PM 4100-4199 W 34TH Assault 11:10 AM 4700-4799 WASHINGTON Theft 4:59 AM 7800-7899 N SHEPHERD Assault 2:25 PM 1500-1599 W 25TH Theft 7:30 PM 4600-4699 NETT Theft 7:40 PM 2200-2299 TAYLOR Theft 6 PM 3000-3099 OAK FOREST DR Theft 12:17 PM 4200-4299 SHERWOOD

JULY 6

Theft 11 PM 400-499 W 28TH Theft 11:13 AM 2300-2399 N SHEPHERD Theft 11:13 AM 2500-2599 PRINCETON Burglary 10:15 AM 1500-1599 ANSBURY Burglary 4:56 AM 1300-1399 SHEPHERD Assault 5:30 PM 2500-2599 W 34TH Theft 3 AM 3800-3899 SHERWOOD Robbery 12:59 AM 2200-2299 ELLA Burglary 3:11 AM 2500-2599 N LOOP W Theft 6:44 PM 6500-6599 WASHINGTON Burglary 11:58 PM 2300-2399 KARBACH Theft 4 AM 10500-10599 NORTHWEST FWY Burglary 9:46 PM 6200-6299 N SHEPHERD Burglary 11:52 PM 4600-4699 DACOMA Burglary 9:34 PM 2100-2199 YALE Theft 5:48 PM 2100-2199 ELLA

JULY 5

Theft 6:45 AM 1100-1199 BRASHEAR Theft 12:20 PM 900-999 N LOOP W Theft 3:09 PM 1200-1299 SHEPHERD Burglary 8:52 AM 4100-4199 W 34TH Assault 1:35 PM 4200-4299 W 34TH Assault 4:55 PM 5000-5099 WERNER Assault 12:20 PM 900-999 N LOOP W

JULY 7

Theft 2 AM 300-399 28TH Burglary 12:24 AM 300-399 N LOOP W

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Precinct One: Deputies invite parents out to new child safety seat checkup event By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

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Deputies with the Harris County Precinct One Constable’s Office are inviting residents out for a series of child safety seat checkups in the next few months. The first event will be held from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 14 at the White Oak Conference Center, located at 7603 Antoine Dr. The Constables Office will be partnering with the Near Northwest Management District and Safety Riders for the events. Tracie Mathews-Segura with the Precinct One Constable’s Office said the series will be a first for the department in The Leader area. Officials will be setting up appointments

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

The Obituaries. Francis “Frank” Arthur Culver, 82, born Jan. 19, 1933

Edward Earl Krause, 89, born 1925 in Houston, died July 3. Krause graduated from Reagan High School, and then entered the U.S. Army, 82nd Airborne Division in 1943 and was stationed in occupied Europe. Upon his return, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston. He later worked as CEO of Fred Allen Company, Houston Plastic Products, where he was employed for 57 years. Krause is survived by his children, Michael Krause, Karl Krause, Karol Legaspi and Kathleen Krause-Thompson, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to

Dora Fay McPherson Horak, 69, born Jan. 2, 1946,

in Houston, died July 8. Horak grew up in the Heights and went to Browning Elementary, Hogg Junior High and Reagan High School. She was employed as a loan officer at Bank One (now Chase). She is survived by her daughters Amanda Horak and Anessa Pavlik, sisters Myrtle Loretta Marshall and Patsy Ann

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in Pasadena, Texas, died July 2. Culver was a war veteran, having served his country in the United States Army. He also served his church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He is survived by his daughters Donna Kay Kotsios, Connie Morris and Kathy, Emerson, sister Laura Cannon and second wife, Janet Barnhart Steinway Culver.

with parents to bring their car seats for a check-up, but those who don’t call ahead will not be turned away. “We’ll be helping parents ensure that the car seat is being used properly,” MathewsSegura said. “If the weight distribution on the seat is off or it is a recalled model, we can dispose of it and throw it away. We’re not necessarily installing it, we’ll just be teaching parents how to do it corectly.” Mathews-Segura had held a similar event at another department and said that almost every vehicle that showed up for the checkup had something wrong. While most issues were not major, some parents got creative to say the least. “In one case, the children should been facing the rear

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Frances Mamie Rummell,

100, born Feb. 17, 1915, died July 5. Rummell is survived by nieces Cheryl Brown McCullough of Wakefield, Kansas, Ann Rummell Barr (Andrew) of Dallas, Texas, nephew Michael Brown (Cindy) of Howard, Colorado, and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. She attended Houston Public Schools and was a longtime employee and retiree of Southern Pacific Railroad. She volunteered during retirement in the Cardiology Department of St. Joseph Hospital. She was a lifelong member of Christ Church Cathedral.

Madeleine Topham, 92, born Sept. 23, 1922, died July 6.

Accidents from P. 1A right-of-way acquisition is required. Ultimately, both DeBaldo and Cohen agree that the neighborhood deserves safer streets. DeBaldo herself understands the price of safety, as she was struck by a car while living in England. “We’re hoping by the end of the year to have some firm plans in place,” DeBaldo said. More information about the NTMP can be found online at http://www.publicworks. houstontx.gov/traffic/programs.html

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The price of safety However, with costs of developments and construction increasing across the city, DeBaldo said her concerns now come down to the almighty dollar. “The question I’ve asked now is how far can $40,000 get us,” DeBaldo said. That amount may get the area a fair share of its own traffic-calming devices. According to NTMP documents, speed limit signs cost approximately $150 per installation, painted stop lines cost between $300 to $800 per intersection and improved shoulders and parking lanes with better striping can cost between $250 to $300 per 100 linear feet per direction. More drastic improvements require more funding. A oneway street conversion can cost approximately $2,500 to $3,500 per block and a partial or half closure can cost $5,000 to $20,000 per block.

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The issues facing Rice Military echo similar challenges in neighborhoods like Shady Acres and other parts of the Heights. Increased construction traffic from burgeoning residential development has done little to dampen the effects of dangerous driving in the neighborhood. The Leader previously reported some residents are attempting to have more four-way stops installed throughout Shady Acres, and it’s something that DeBaldo feels might mitigate some of the traffic issues. “It appears we have many people who don’t wait to wait for traffic lights on adjacent roads so you have a number of cars blowing through stop signs,” DeBaldo said.

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Saturday, July 18, 2015 • Page 3A

Korean War vet thankful after wallet is returned

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Gifts and Home Décor Houston’s destination for affordable home furnishings and accessories for over 14 years. Photo by Jonathan Garris Don Collier is still hoping to reward the Good Samaritan who returned his wallet completely intact last week.

stolen credit cards and other items didn’t exactly leave the most positive prediction for the fate of his property. “I could picture in my mind they were having a heyday with my $25,000 limit on that

credit card,” Collier said with a laugh.” The local vet says he still wants to reward the good samaritan who returned the wallet but so far no one at Kroger has come forward.

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Karate from P. 1A after school practices. KICKSTART KIDS at Black is big, as it is at the other middle schools that offer it. There are more than 300 students who participate in sixth through eighth grades at Black although there is somewhat of a drop off as kids get older because of the time commitment involved. Rebekah said she has enjoyed KICKSTART KIDS because it’s something boys and girls can do together and because of the friends she has made. Like the other students there, Rebekah has progressed about two belts, or levels, each year. “The karate team at [Black] is a place where Rebekah found a niche, a social place of belonging with good friendships,” said Penny. “She participated with them at local, regional, and state competitions. And she is a part of the demo team which showcases each member’s skill and ability.” It was with the demo team that she performed before the student body, their parents, and her teachers. “Hearing the resounding cheers for her part of the routine was an amazing moment for her and for us,” said Penny. Echoes Rebekah, who said she wasn’t a bit nervous during the routine – “It was way

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Don Collier is sending his thanks to an anonymous employee at the Kroger grocery store on West 43rd Street after a worker returned his wallet completely intact after losing it. “Sometimes you get cynical and you think there aren’t many honest people left in the world, but this was something that felt nice,” Collier said. The Korean War veteran discovered he had lost his wallet after shopping at the store last week. Collier said he remembers checking out with one of the smaller carts but says he must have left the wallet when he was finished in the parking lot. Losing a wallet is no joke for most people and Collier said this was true for him.

“It had a card for the honorable discharge I received from the military, a $100 bill, some other money, my driver’s license and a credit card with a substantial $25,000 limit,” Collier said. “I didn’t miss it until the next morning when I started to run an errand and stopped at Mytiburger on the way home.” Collier traced his steps back to the Kroger and approached the customer service counter where an employee said a worker there had returned it. “Everything was there,” Collier said. “I was just so amazed and pleased. I even have a 1932 penny inside of it, which is the year I was born.” Collier said getting his wallet back was a pleasant shock. While normally optimistic, Collier said reports of

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Contributed Photo Rebekah bows before performing with a Bo staff at the US Open International Sport Karate Tournament in Orlando, Florida.

awesome. They clapped really hard.” And the accolades just kept coming. At the US Open International Sport Karate Tournament in Orlando, Florida in early July, Rebekah earned first place in Handicap-able Forms performing with a Bo staff. She also placed first in her age bracket for First Timers to this event performing an intermediate traditional karate form. For Rebekah, who learned her routine over a three year period, it was a crowning achievement, although she plans to continue on the demo team in high school. She stays active outside of karate too, taking gymnastics classes at Discover Gymnastics. Mom

Penny has even gotten on the act, taking up karate as well. “It helps keep me young,” she said. Rebekah is not sure where high school will be just yet but she is thinking about her future. She describes science as “pretty amazing” and said she likes taking care of animals so maybe she’ll be a veterinarian. Her mom said that Rebekah has attended public schools throughout her school years and has been included in the traditional curriculum as much as possible. “Rebekah has great opportunities before her because many people have built into her foundation and believed she could accomplish great things,” she said.

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The Topics. Saturday, July 18, 2015 • Page 4A

We are close to taxation without representation

I

n less than four months, you and I will elect a new mayor of Houston, and if you’re like 85 percent of your neighbors, you just mumbled, “Who cares?” I know that’s the case for most of our readers, and when you start a column talking about the clichéd discussion of voter apathy, the same thing quickly happens to your readers – apathy. So let me try to lure you back in. It appears we have seven legitimate candidates running for mayor on Nov. 3, and before you and I decide who we’ll support this year, I think we ought to pose a few difficult questions these candidates will not address in the fancy TV advertisements coming soon to a flat screen near you. If you’re a student of history… Better yet, if you ever attended any sort of school, you’ve heard the famous pre-American Revolution saying: “Taxation without representation is tyranny.” There is no tyranny in Houston, and I would never suggest as much, but for just a few minutes, I’d like us to consider whether our city is perilously close to taxation without representation. In the end, my hope is the candidates offering their services to our city might consider

Jonathan McElvy Publisher

the same. If you drive through virtually every neighborhood in The Leader’s coverage area, you will see signs indicating that our neighborhoods are protected by a constable or a private security firm. Whether it’s Alan Rosen or S.E.A.L., most all of our neighborhoods “ask” us to support private security. I think it’s fair to say we pay a secondary tax for this security. Why must our neighborhoods do that? You can cut it and slice it and squish it any way you like, but the reason we have private security is because the Houston Police Department isn’t equipped to protect this enormous place. That is not the fault of HPD. It’s simply a numbers game, and the numbers suggest our city is unable to use the taxes we pay to represent us as they should. Here’s another example, and it’s one I’ve used before. City Council

Member Ellen Cohen represents a large chunk of The Leader’s coverage area. I find Cohen to be charming, incredibly smart, and she’s confident enough to stand up to other politicians – even her allies, sometimes – when the situation warrants. But as you may remember from previous columns, Cohen’s city council district is roughly the size of Orlando, Fla. That isn’t her fault. It’s simply a numbers game. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Cohen work – and work hard – for three years, and while this may seem like a shot, it is anything but that. Cohen doesn’t come out and represent us. If we need representation, we must approach her. If a resident has a problem, Cohen doesn’t show up at the front door. The resident shows up at Cohen’s office. I only use Cohen as the example because she is our elected council member, but no matter what elected official we use, I believe we, the citizens, represent ourselves rather than have council members who represent us. Even still, we pay the same taxes, no matter if we feel we have adequate representation or not. There are plenty of other examples, but let’s talk about one more.

Lynn Ashby Columnist

that the grabbers are already getting in line, hiring lobbyists and dolling out campaign donations. Fortunately, in this feeding frenzy we have a precedent, which we can learn from: The Big Tobacco Windfall of 1998. Under the agreement between the tobacco industry and most of the states, they would receive more than $206 billion over the next 25 years. Texas’s share was $15.3 billion (later increased to $17.3 billion), only behind California and New York. The money to the states was to be spent on health issues, anti-smoking messages mostly for teenagers, and associated causes. Instead, the states have used the windfall for all sorts of unrelated projects, In Alaska, $3.5 million in settlement money was spent on shipping docks. In Niagara County, N.Y., $700,000 went for a public golf course’s sprinkler system, and $24 million for a county jail and an office building. Colorado has spent tens of millions of its share to support a literacy program, while Kentucky has invested half of its money in agricultural programs. And in North Carolina, in the ultimate irony, $42 million of the settlement funds actually went to tobacco farmers for modernization and marketing. Here in Texas, the state says it is spending the tobacco money as it is supposed to, but I haven’t seen any anti-tobacco ads, maybe because I’m not a smoking teenager. Anyway, keep your eye out for new golf course’s sprinkler systems. According to the Austin Chronicle, the American Cancer Society (ACS) believes that tobacco control should be the first priority of tobacco settlement dollars. “Texas has earmarked $10 million a year to tobacco prevention programs, in the form of a $200 million endowment with only the interest being spent on the programs. The ACS believes that a fully-funded effective program would require about $60 million a year in a state the size of Texas (approximately $3 per capita.)” Now let’s talk legal fees. When it comes to crafty lawyers, Texas is Numero Uno. With the tobacco settlement finally done, the lawyers descended, demanding fees which in some cases were ridiculous, others were only outrageous. By judge-shopping, attorneys received such generous payouts that some states sued to reduce them. Atlantic Monthly noted that the Massachusetts lawyers in that state’s tobacco case

permits rushing in the door. I don’t have it from any official sources, but my guess is Blair and Gatlin have not been excused any of their tax payments while the city delays their representation of these businesses? I also feel confident in saying Blair didn’t make any money when his business wasn’t open and Gatlin isn’t making money from people who see stalled construction inside his building. As we look forward to this year’s mayoral election, I firmly believe this is one of the most important political cycles this city has ever faced. Despite a decline in oil prices and a steadying of home prices, people continue to move into the city limits. And for every single person who moves here, our city grows less and less equipped to represent all of us. I do not believe we are headed for any sort of tyranny, but as Chris Bell, Stephen Costello, Adrian Garcia, Ben Hall, Bill King, Marty McVey and Sylvester Turner make their rounds to fundraising events and chic forums, I think they all need to answer one question: What can you do to ensure Houston does not have taxation without representation? Email jonathan@theleadernews.com

The reader.

Texas counts its chickens from BP oil spill payout THE SHOW ROOM – As expected, I found you here, checking out the 2016 Lamborghinis. I am thinking the same, or maybe a round-theworld cruise. The kids can pay off their own student loans. I am discussing, of course, the very large fortune that is coming our way – our share of the $18.7 billion that BP is going to pay out for its big oil dump in the Gulf off the Louisiana coast. Of that pile of cash, Texas is going to receive $788 million. There are currently about 27 million Texans, so that breaks down to, uh, 29 or 30 something for each of us. Maybe it’s $30,000 or $29,000. Or perhaps $29. Before you pick the color of your Aventador (at $548,800 a steal), let’s discuss a few points. First, it is not really $788 million in cash BP is shoving across the table. The money is to be distributed over the next 15 to 18 years. Eighteen years ago was -- don’t rush me -- 1997, or maybe 23,000. Can anyone remember any politician’s or businessman’s promise from then? Of course not, nor or we supposed to. By 2028 the Deepwater Horizon disaster will be only an oil slime covering some forgotten pelicans. Like the Texas Lotto that promises a winning pot of $1 million, you have to take the payout over 20 years, otherwise it’s much less, then deduct the taxes, etc. and that million isn’t anywhere near a million. Also, some of this BP money has already been spent. And BP being a British company and formerly British Petroleum, we’ll probably be paid in euros or pounds or quid. Don’t forget the lawyers’ fees, because they certainly won’t. However, congratulations to our Texas lawyers for getting all that loot considering our Gulf shores didn’t really suffer that much harm from oil scum. We had a few tar balls wash up close to Louisiana, some fishermen were inconvenienced, maybe even hurt financially, but in no way did Texas suffer $788 million in damages. Still, grab the money and run. Then there is the aspect of where to spend the money. Some of it has already been earmarked: $70 million for conservation, more for campsites, boardwalks and showers, plus research projects at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and UH. Almost half of these particular funds, $34.5 million, are being spent to buy a ranch. It’s the 17,351-acres Powderhorn Ranch along the coast between Port O’Connor and Port Lavaca, and far from the oil spill. I think the idea is that within five years the land will become 17,351 acres of great bird hunting for state officials. Just how one rationalizes spending money for oil spill damages on classrooms and showers eludes me. Maybe the showers are for oil-soaked dolphins. The rest of that $788 million is up for grabs, and we can bet

Many of the folks in the Heights, Garden Oaks and Oak Forest know the name Park Blair. Blair is the person whose company bought a lot at the corner of Ella and 43rd Street, tore down a gas station and began construction of a now-open restaurant. If you’ve lived in this area for long, you know Berryhill sat and lingered and sat and lingered for nearly 18 months before finally opening its doors, and the delay had nothing to do with Blair or a lazy work force. There’s another example of the exact same thing happening just a little further south on Ella, where a successful businessman named Greg Gatlin is trying to expand a business that once began as a hobby. Gatlin, as you probably know, has arguably the best barbecue in Houston and he has a slow moving – and still unopened building – to show for it. Why was Blair delayed so long? What’s taking Gatlin so long to open his building? City permits. There are hundreds of examples of local businesses that just can’t open the doors through no fault of their own. Instead, they go along paying a bank note for the property while the city isn’t equipped to handle all the

Church a handmaid of communism

had already been awarded $775 million, an average of more than $7,700 an hour, and a key firm was suing for its share of an additional $1.3 billion. Texas scored the highest per capita legal fees award with $3.3 billion being divided among five lawyers plus two out-of-state attorneys, but at the end Texas lawyers were suing one another for a bigger chunk of the pie. So much for our anti-smoking campaign. Then there is Katrina, and I say “is” rather than “was” because we shall be hearing about that disaster for years, mainly concerning lawsuits. My application for $5 million in yacht repairs was turned down because the judge said my rowboat had been deemed “unfit even for dry land” by the Coast Guard. Like they know anything about boats. So don’t order that Lamborghini just yet. You probably need the advice of a good lawyer. Ashby’s share is at ashby2@ comcast.net

Dear Editor: The story covering the LGBT “marriage” by the false “church” Bethel United Church of Christ reveals what Vladimir Lenin described as “useful idiots” back in the 1930’s. This not of Christ “church” is actually a handmaiden of communism. A 1958 book written by a retired FBI agent, The Naked Communist lists the very explicit goals for tearing down the United States from within. Goal #26 states: “Present Homo-sexuality, degeneracy, and promiscuity as “normal, natural, healthy.” Obviously, this “church” is more acquainted with communism than Christ and the Bible. True churches will find themselves eliminated under communist authoritarian regimes as true Christians will be persecuted. Currently, the SCOTUS ruling will be the watershed moment for true Christian churches who may be litigated right out of existence or denied tax-free status. A Christian couple in Oregon has been fined $135,000 for refusing to bake a cake for a lesbian couple for their wedding who were “offended.” In Kentucky, a County clerk has refused to perform a gay marriage and is willing to go to jail for his beliefs. These

Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com

are the true Christians. As Reverend Franklin Graham stated after the ruling: “America’s not going to like what’s at the end of this rainbow.” Liz Theiss

Reagan name change debate continues

Dear Editor: Change the school board not the name of the school. That school has been a landmark in the Houston Heights longer than any of the board members have been around. It is a tradition for my family and fellow classmates and all who have gone before me and after me (class of Jan 1970, last midterm class in HISD). It would be a dishonor and disrespectful for the teachers and educators past and present to dissolve the name of the school that has an alumni that covers all of the United States because wherever you travel across country you will find someone who went to John Reagan. Why take away the name of a school that is part of Houston history and part of the past and futures of those who have walked through these halls? Michael Paul Dear Editor: I am a graduate of John H. Reagan and proud of it.

We were a school of many races that learned, played and achieved many goals with respect toward each other. We lived up to high standards and produced many leaders. Leave Reagan alone….Class of 1967. Sherry Griffith Dear Editor: I appreciate the fact that you printed the letters with objections to changing the school name of Reagan High School - but where is the outcry to allow one person, a criminal, murderer to cause the destruction of our HISTORY in the United States? The ‘band of liberal/socialist’ care nothing about our history or the Constitution of the United States. Must all of this go down and defeat those of us who stand for what our Nation was founded upon? Our Congress should be bombarded with calls and letters to those people who represent US, with our views, and not to their ‘heavy contributors’ to their campaigns wishes! Please let us all remember who jumped on the bandwagon to remove all Confederate flags, monuments, school names, throughout the Nation, including our local candidates for Mayor of Houston! J. Hendricks

the leader Puzzlers. Answers found in this week’s Classified section

SUDOKU

aCrOss

1. Licenses TV stations 4. Worn-out horse 7. Expire 10. Winglike structure 11. Supplement with difficulty 12. Confederate soldier 13. Attempter 15. All persons of the earth 16. Vertical position 19. Live longer than 21. Showing keen interest 23. Old Spanish currency units 24. Ingested by sniffing 25. A narrow path or road 26. Old Tokyo 27. Bound map collections 30. Deliquium 35. Brownish coat mixed with white 36. 3 banded S. Am. armadillo 37. Coat a metal with an oxide 41. Slave-like 44. 1950’s TV Wally 45. City founded by Xenophanes

46. Hermaphroditic 50. Kale plant with smooth leaves 54. Forelimb 55. Unassisted 56. Jeweled headdress 57. Auricle 59. Competing groups 60. Cardinal number 61. Light bulb inventor’s initials 62. Heat unit 63. Doctor of Education 64. Make a mistake 65. Point midway between S and SE

dOwn

1. Bazaars 2. Cuyahoga River city 3. Latin word for charity 4. Scourges 5. Alias 6. Origins 7. Subjugate using troops 8. Dutch name of Ypres 9. Siskel and __, critics 13. Teaspoon (abbr.) 14. Herb of grace

17. Brew 18. Kilo yard (abbr.) 20. Barn’s wind indicator 22. Griffith or Rooney 27. Macaws 28. 2000 pounds 29. Official language of Laos 31. Cleveland’s roundball team 32. Office of Public Information 33. Chum 34. Before 38. Nation in the north Atlantic 39. Apportion into sections 40. Skilled in analysis 41. More assured 42. ___ Musk, businessman 43. In a way, tells 46. Immature newt 47. Hawaiian taro root dish 48. Extremely angry 49. Wrapped up in a cerecloth 51. Expression 52. Paradoxical sleep 53. Tooth caregiver 58. Swiss river

WORD SCRAMBLE


Saturday, July 18, 2015 • Page 5A

2015 Leader Reader’s Choice Awards Complete Guide ANIMALS & PET SERVICES

Best Day Care/Boarding or Sitter Service 1st Place - Paws Pet Resort 2nd Place – Polka Dot Dogs 3rd Place – M&M Pet Sitting Best Grooming 1st Place - Paws Pet Resort 2nd Place – Polka Dot Dogs 3rd Place – Critter Cleaners Best Veterinarian 1st Place – Dr. David Helcel – VERGI 2nd Place – Oak Forest Veterinarian Clinic 3rd Place – Dr. Flores– Forest West

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES PRODUCTS Best Auto Repair 1st Place – Emersons Auto Service 2nd Place – Master Car Care 3rd Place – Adolf Hoepfl

Best Car Wash/Detailing 1st Place – Dr. Gleem Car Wash & Lube Center (Ella Location) 2nd Place – CARisma Wash (Heights location) 3rd Place – Mister Car Wash Best Auto Dealer 1st Place – Baker Auto Sales 2nd Place – Tommy Vaughn 3rd Place – None

BEAUTY

Best Hair Salon 1st Place – Haum Salon by Joey Cox 2nd Place – Studio 10 3rd Place – LX Salon Best Tanning Salon 1st Place – Cabana Tans 2nd Place – Glo-Girl 3rd Place – None Best Manicure/Pedicure 1st Place – LV Nails 2nd Place – Texan Nails

Best Public School 1st Place – Harvard Elementary 2nd Place – Hogg Middle School 3rd Place – Garden Oaks School

3rd Place – None Best Stylist 1st Place – Joey Cox 2nd Place – Antonette Danna, Studio 10 3rd Place – Kathryn Ferrar-Thompson

DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS

Best Bar 1st Place – The Creeks 2nd Place – Wakefield Crowbar 3rd Place – Johnny’s Gold Brick Best Coffee Shop 1st Place – Boomtown Coffee 2nd Place – Starbuck’s on W. 43rd 3rd Place – Grindhouse Best Happy Hour 1st Place – Cyclone Anaya’s 2nd Place – Wakefield Crowbar 3rd Place – None Best Wine Bar 1st Place – Sonoma 2nd Place – Plonk 3rd Place – Corkscrew

EDUCATION

Best Nursery/Day Care 1st Place – Toddler House 2nd Place – St. Rose of Lima Early Childhood Center 3rd Place – Carl David Harrison – First Church Heights Best Learning Center 1st Place – Susan Sessions Tutoring 2nd Place – Our Savior Lutheran School 3rd Place – Carl David Harrison Best Private/Parochial School 1st Place – Our Savior Lutheran School 2nd Place – St. Rose of Lima Catholic School 3rd Place – First Church Heights

Best Community College 1st Place – Houston Community College System 2nd Place – Lone Star College 3rd Place – College of Biblical Studies

ENTERTAINMENT & FINE ART

Best Family Entertainment Center 1st Place – Harriet & Joe Foster YMCA 2nd Place – First Saturday Arts Market 3rd Place – Dave & Buster’s Best Community Theater/Performing Arts Venue 1st Place – HITS 2nd Place – Opera in the Heights 3rd Place – Theater Under the Stars Best Live Music Venue 1st Place – Fitzgerald’s 2nd Place – First Saturday Arts Market 3rd Place – Dan Electros Best Local Museum 1st Place – Art Car Museum 2nd Place – Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 3rd Place – Contemporary Arts Museum Best Art Gallery 1st Place – First Saturday Arts Market 2nd Place – Casa Ramirez Folk Art 3rd Place – Spring Street Studios

FOOD & RESTAURANTS Best BBQ Restaurant 1st Place – Barbecue Inn 2nd Place – Hungry Farmer 3rd Place – Gatlin’s

Best Pizzeria 1st Place – Pink’s Pizza 2nd Place – Doyle’s 3rd Place – Brother’s Pizzeria

Best Breakfast Spot 1st Place – Lola’s 2nd Place – Yale Grill 3rd Place – Fiesta Tacos

Best International 1st Place – Kojak’s 2nd Place – Stalla’s 3rd Place - Aladdin

Best Sandwich Shop 1st Place – Jason’s Deli 2nd Place – Doyle’s 3rd Place – PaPa Mo’s Deli

Best Caterer 1st Place – Lemond Catering 2nd Place – Kojak’s 3rd Place – Demeris

Best Specialty Food Store 1st Place – Thu Thu 2nd Place – Revival Market 3rd Place – Houston Panini & Provisions

Best Date Place 1st Place – Cavatore 2nd Place – Rainbow Lodge 3rd Place – Shade

Best Toy Store 1st Place – Big Blue Whale 2nd Place – MANNA 3rd Place – Toys R Us Best Women’s Clothing Store 1st Place – Hatton Henry Bag Co. 2nd Place – MANNA 3rd Place – Urban Izzy

HEALTH

Best Physician 1st Place – Dr. Alysia Bedgood 2nd Place – Dr. Christopher Angelo 3rd Place – Dr. Raj Shani Best Assisted Living Home 1st Place – The Hampton Pinegate 2nd Place – Brookdale

Best Health Food Store 1st Place – Sprout’s 2nd Place – Ruggles 3rd Place – Whole Foods

Best Food Truck 1st Place – H-TownstrEATS 2nd Place – Tacqueria Tacambaro

Best Mexican 1st Place – Cyclone Anaya’s 2nd Place – Juanita’s 3rd Place – Tia Maria’s

Best Resale Shop/Consignment 1st Place – MANNA 2nd Place – AG Antiques on 19th 3rd Place – Retropolis

Best Grocery Store 1st Place – Kroger on 43rd 2nd Place – Asia Market 3rd Place – HEB

Best Place to Host a Party 1st Place – Little Woodrow’s Shepherd 2nd Place – Cyclone Anaya’s 3rd Place – Los Cucos

Best Lunch Spot 1st Place – Carter & Cooley 2nd Place – Triple A Restaurant 3rd Place – Tia Maria’s

Best Musical Instrument Store 1st Place – Guitar Center

Best Gift Shop 1st Place – AG Antiques on 19th 2nd Place – Bliss on 19th 3rd Place – Darlene’s Flower & Gifts

Best Takeout 1st Place – Doyle’s 2nd Place – Jason Deli 3rd Place – Eastern

Best Italian 1st Place – Doyle’s 2nd Place – Cavatore 3rd Place – Colina’s

Best Bridal Store 1st Place – Ventura’s 2nd Place – David’s

Best Local Furniture Store 1st Place – AG Antiques on 19th 2nd Place – Gallery Furniture 3rd Place – Gen’s Antiques

Best Service 1st Place – Cavatore 2nd Place – Jason’s Deli 3rd Place – None

Best Ice Cream 1st Place – Baskin Robbins 2nd Place – Sweet Frog 3rd Place – Fat Cat’s

Best Men’s Clothing Store 1st Place – MANNA 2nd Place – Manready Mercantile 3rd Place – Academy on 290

Best Antiques 1st Place – AG Antiques on 19th 2nd Place – Gen’s Antiques 3rd Place – Lovejoy’s

Best Sushi 1st Place – Soma 2nd Place – Blue Fish 3rd Place – Whole Foods

Best Hot Wings 1st Place – Crowbar 2nd Place – Buffalo Wild Wings 3rd Place – Plucker’s

Best Bookstore 1st Place – Kaboom 2nd Place – MANNA 3rd Place – Blue Whale

Best Children’s Clothing Store 1st Place – Thread 2nd Place – MANNA 3rd Place – Gymboree

Best Steak House 1st Place – Taste of Texas 2nd Place – Rainbow Lodge 3rd Place – Barbecue Inn

Best Hamburger 1st Place – Hubcap Grill 2nd Place – MytiBurger 3rd Place – Miller’s

Best Mattress Store 1st Place – Mattress Firm 2nd Place – New Living

GENERAL SHOPPING

Best Seafood 1st Place – Liberty Kitchen 2nd Place – Pappadeaux 3rd Place – Barbecue Inn

Best Asian Restaurant 1st Place – Eastern Chinese Restaurant 2nd Place – Thu Thu 3rd Place – Hughie’s

Best Liquor Store 1st Place – Spec’s 2nd Place – Kroger 3rd Place – Roma Warehouse

2nd Place – Cavatore 3rd Place – Cottonwood

Best Chiropractor 1st Place – Dr. Greg Green 2nd Place – Dr. George Junkin 3rd Place – Dr. Paula Batterton

Best Jewelry Store 1st Place – Lovecraft Designs 2nd Place – AG Antiques 3rd Place – JVP Jewelry

Best Outdoor Patio 1st Place – The Creeks

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Page 6A • Saturday, July 18, 2015

Ultimate Louisiana Party concept, for two fun filled days of live music, visual artists, vendors, artisans and food. The event will be at Dan Electro’s Guitar Bar, 1031 E. 24th St., from noon-2 a.m. Saturday, July 18; and 2 p.m.-midnight Sunday, July 19. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under, and children under 2 are free. Information: www.ulparty.com, 225-802-9681.

CALL FOR PERFORMERS Houston Family Arts Center The Houston Family Arts Center, 10760 Grant Road, is looking for talented performers to audition for the H-FACtor competition and fundraiser. Proceeds will go towards a new sign. The top act will win $350. Auditions will be from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 18, at the Houston Family Arts Center’s Garza Mainstage. Acts selected to perform in the event will pay a $50 performance fee for single-person pieces, or $85 for multi-person acts. Information: 281-587-6100, www.houstonfac. com.

INFORMATION SESSION Lone Star College-CyFair Gain first-hand knowledge about LSC-CyFair facilities, programs and resources with attendance at one of multiple summer information sessions. Sessions are available at 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. July 21, Aug. 11-12, Aug. 1819; and 9 a.m. Aug. 15 and Aug. 22 in the Center for Academic and Student Affairs Building, 9191 Barker Cypress. To register, email name and date of session. Information: CFOutreach@Lonestar. edu, 281-290-3420.

ULTIMATE LOUISIANA PARTY AND CULTURAL FESTIVAL Dan Electro’s Guitar Bar Join headliner Henry Turner Jr. and Flavor, founder of the

1776 Houston Family Arts Center Sherman Edwards and Peter Stone’s Tony Award-winning musical about the birth of the United States of America is coming to the Houston Family Arts

Center, 10760 Grant Road, on the Garza Mainstage, July 24 through August 16. Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Call or visit website to purchase tickets. Information: www.houstonfac.com, 281-5876100. READY, SET, ENROLL Lone Star College-CyFair Attend one of several Enrollment Information Sessions to receive hands-on assistance with enrollment steps and financial aid. In addition, students will be able to complete their Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination Shot for $20. Sessions are set from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. July 23 and Aug. 13 at the LSC-Fairbanks Center, 14955 Northwest Frwy. Call or email for other locations. Information: 281-290-3420, cfoutreach@lonestar.edu. DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP Memorial Hermann Northwest The next meeting will be held July 28, at 4:30 p.m. in the South Tower Classrooms at 1635 North Loop West. The event is free to attend and open to anyone interested in learning more about healthy eating, foot care, stress management, heart health, blood sugar control and exercise. Also

‘Saints of Our Times’ icon tour at All Saints All Saints Catholic Church, 215 E. 10th St., will feature icon artwork which shows “Saints of Our Times,� saints canonized by St. John Paul II and St. John XXIII as well as portrayals of the Holy Trinity and the Annunciation. Msgr. Adam McClosky commissioned this work from Brother Robert Lentz. The icon tour will be at 2:30 p.m. July 19, in the sanctuary. Call 832-428-4104 for information. Breakthrough anointing at Worship Tabernacle Join Pastors Roy and Ann Chapman for a Breakthrough Anointing Service, at 2:30 p.m. July 26. Bring your most urgent prayer request. Worship Tabernacle is located at 3006 E. Richey Rd. in

MONTHLY HAPPY HOUR Heights Young Professionals Heights Young Professionals’ monthly happy hour will be at Minute Maid Park for the Astros vs. Angels game. Enter through Union Station Lobby. The game is July 30. Networking is 5:30 p.m. followed by the game at 7:10 p.m. The cost for chamber members is $20 and $25 for non-chamber members. Information: info@heightschamber.com, 713-861-6735. FISH CAMP 2015 Scarborough High School Scarborough High School, 4141 Costa Rica Rd., will be holding orientation for the Sparta Class of 2019. Check-in begins at 8:45 a.m., orientation is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Aug. 5. Lunch will be provided. Registration will be accepted by mail or dropped off at Scarborough High School between Aug. 3-Aug. 4. Students may register on the day of Fish Camp. Late registration will begin Ad # 36774

Humble. Call 281-443-2357 or visit www.worshiptabernacle. tv for information. St. Rose of Lima offering Vacation Bible School St. Rose of Lima Catholic Community, 3600 Brinkman, is offering Vacation Bible School, from 8:30 a.m.-noon, July 27-July 31, for PreK4 through fifth grade. The cost is $25 per child. Registration deadline is July 20. Volunteers are needed to help with arts and crafts, Bible adventures, music and games. Call 713-692-9123 or email jmotzko@yahoo.com or lsaldana@stroselima.org for information. Vacation Bible School at First Baptist Church Heights Vacation Bible School will be held from 9:30 a.m.-noon, July 27-31, at First Baptist Church Heights, 201 E. 9th St. Call 713-861-3102 or visit www.fbcheights.org for information. Community Health Fair at Providence MBC The community is welcome to attend a free Health Fair given by Providence Missionary Baptist Church, 403 E. 43rd St. (77022). The fair will be held from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 1. There will be HIV testing, vision and dental screening, blood pressure, cholesterol screening, Diabetes, breast cancer awareness, weight loss programs, elderly programs and medical/life insurance information. For information, call 713208-4090.

TCH Mobile Clinic Program at Pathways Texas Children’s Hospital Mobile Clinic Program will be offering vaccines at Pathways Church, 5900 Pinemont Dr., from 9 a.m.-noon, Aug. 5. Vaccines will be given for children 0 to 18 years old. A parent/guardian must be present. Please bring child’s immunization card (and CHIP/Medicaid card if applicable). Call 713-957-3383 for information.

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Marco from Italy, 17 yrs.

Loves soccer and would like to learn to play baseball. Marco is a boy scout and enjoys the outdoors.

Make this year the most exciting, enriching year ever for you and your family. Welcome a high school student, 15-18 years old, from Italy, France, Norway, Denmark, Spain, Germany, Brazil, Thailand or China as part of your family for a school year (or less) and make an overseas friend for life. For more information or to select your own exchange student please call:

Julie from Denmark, 16 yrs. Enjoys gymnastics, swimming and photography. She’s positive, fun loving and easy to get along with.

Natasha at 1-979-540-8498

Marcy at 1-800-888-9040 (Toll Free) or e-mail us at info@world-heritage.org For privacy reasons, photos above are not photos of actual students

www.whhosts.com World Heritage is a public benefit, non-profit organization based in Laguna Beach, CA.

Intestinal Parasite Control for Pets Intestinal parasites are very common in pets. They cause nausea, camps, pain and you may see vomiting, diarrhea or weight loss. They can lead to anemia, starvation and death in your pet. They sometimes affect people if proper hygiene is not followed. You will sometimes see tapeworms or roundworms from your pet but will never see the others. Your veterinarian must do laboratory testing to detect most parasites. The most common worms we ďŹ nd are hook, round, whip & tapeworms. We also may detect giardia, coccidia, toxoplasma and other disorders. Your pet can acquire these parasites from its mother, the ground, eating raw meat, garbage, rodents or eas, drinking ground water, feces from other animals and even your shoes. There is no one medication that will treat or prevent all parasites your pet has. With routine testing the proper prescription can kill the parasites your pet has. Then the proper preventative medication is safe, easy and inexpensive compared to the alternative of not preventing. Only your veterinarian can detect, treat, prevent and consult with you on the most advanced parasite control program for your individual pet. Come by or call for free brochures on parasites and how to prevent them

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BLOOD DRIVE Memorial Hermann Northwest Come out and save a life by donating blood. Memorial Hermann Northwest, 1635 North Loop West, will hold a blood drive from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 6, in South Tower, Classrooms A, B, E and F. Bring ID. Information: 713-8674354 or 713-867-2445.

(Between Ella & T.C. Jester)

ChurCh Guide GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH

at 8 a.m. Aug. 5. Official 2019 Class Shirt is $15 (cash or money order), and laptop insurance is $25. Mail registration to: Sparta Fish Camp, Attn.: Jacqueline L. McWilliams, 4141 Costa Rica Road, Houston 77092. Information: 713-613-2200, jmcwilli@ houstonisd.org.

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From the Pews. Christianity 101 at St. Stephen’s Pastor Kevin Otto will begin a new study, Christianity 101, on July 19. The class, which teaches the basics of the Christian faith, will meet during the Sunday School hour at 9:40 a.m. in Room 203. While the chancel choir takes a break in July, Sunday School classes and members will provide an array of musical talent during the 11 a.m. worship service. The Sonrise Choir will continue to lead worship in the 8:30 a.m. contemporary service. St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. For information, call 713-686-8241 or visit www.stsumc.org.

available are weekly diabetes management classes. Information: 713-867-4515.

1822 W. 18th

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

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.

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INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS John H. Reagan Masonic Lodge John H. Reagan Masonic Lodge will hold its 106th Installation of Officers on July 18. Mark S. Dube will be installed as the 106th “Worshipful Master.� Social hour is at 2 p.m., installation is at 3 p.m. Dinner will follow after installation. All members and family as well as non-members are welcome. Information: 713682-0487.

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MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

Don’t Let BaD FeeLings Fester Human relations are complicated by the fact that we all have different styles of interacting with each other. Most of us want to be liked and to get along with our fellow humans. Therefore, when problems arise between us, we should do our best to communicate them in a considerate way and try to work them out. How best to do that often requires sensitivity and good judgment, but it is almost always better to address the problems or the hurt feelings than to let them fester. Sometimes we don’t address the problem because we want to avoid conflict or we fear that we will appear petty if we tell someone that we are offended by something they said or did, but failing to address the problem rarely makes it go away, and our hurt feelings will only grow. If there is something that needs to be discussed, we should choose a time when both of us can talk, and we should also try to raise the issue in a friendly, sensitive way. Often the best way to start these conversations is by telling the person that we value their relationship and therefore we want to address something that has been bothering us, at which point the person should be more receptive to our message. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. Ephesians 4:25-26

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

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

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Saturday, July 18, 2015 • Page 7A

Making the most of hikes with an inhospitable hound

Inhospitable hound in The Heights Dear Dear Inhospitable Hound, I understand how frustrating it can be to have a dog who is unsure about strangers and other dogs out in the world. So many times, people disregard the notion that not all dogs are comfortable being approached. Many dogs react badly and this is when accidents happen. The good news is that there is something that you can do to circumvent a stressful encounter for your dog. The Yellow Dog Project is a global movement that aims to bring awareness to the special needs of dogs who need

state of friendliness. So, by simply tying a yellow ribbon on your dog’s collar or leash, you’re giving a nonverbal warning that your pup needs some space. Since there are still people who are unfamiliar with the DINOS movement, it’s a good idea to verbally warn people who approach your dog. A simple, “my dog needs some space today” should be sufficient warning, without having to go into specifics of your pup’s likes and dislikes. With a little

if a parent doesn’t, so teaching adults is a very reward experience from many angles.” Each year, about 35,000 Houston-area children partici-

pate in the YMCA of Greater Houston’s Water Safety Program. To attend classes or learn more, go to www.HoustonYMCA.org.

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forethought and planning, you and your pooch can both enjoy neighborhood walks without adding any more stress to your pup’s day. Learn more about these movements at: www. theyellowdogproject.com and www.dogsinneedofspace.com Do you have a question for Tabby? If so, email her at deartabbyquestions@gmail.com

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Safety from P. 1A adults here at the Foster facility. They cost $75 for members and $105 for non-members, but they are open to all. We also raise money for scholarships for both children and adults to help those who might need the financial assistance with the cost of swim lessons. All they need to do is apply. We want everyone to have the opportunity to learn to swim. Everyone.” Additionally, the Foster YMCA works with children at local schools by giving swimming lessons. The agency also conducts outreach through local apartment complexes, where there are often pools – and no lifeguards. “When we go into an apartment complex to teach, we first have a ‘Family Water Safety Day’ to help introduce the program and the objectives. Sometimes, we supply swimsuits as some may not have them. Then everyone who wants, can get swimming lessons and most have a really good time too,” said Lengefeld. What does Director Lengefeld find most rewarding about this wonderful program? “I really enjoy the kids, but I also really enjoy watching adults who have never learned to swim, swim for the first time,” Lengefeld said. “They are often thrilled, and it builds their confidence. If the adult is a parent, it also helps their children. Nationally, there is only a 13 percent probability that a child will learn to swim

Your Neighborhood Real Estate Team

Pet of the Week

B

Dear Tabby, I enjoy walking my dog, but she’s a little uneasy around some people and other dogs. I don’t want to stop walking her all together, but I would like a way to let people know that she’s not always in the mood to visit with strange people or other dogs. Any advice?

some space, while still affording them (and you!) the freedom to get out and about. The brainchild of Tara Palardy, a dog trainer in the city of Red Deer, Alberta, Canada, the movement seeks to educate appropriate ways to approach or make contact with a dog with permission of a dog owner only, whether or not a dog is a “Yellow Dog”. The project also seeks to promote the use of yellow ribbons to identify dogs needing extra space. A similar, but unaffiliated group to The Yellow Dog Project is DINOS (Dogs In Need Of Space) who aims to educate and remind people to ask the owner before petting the dog. Many dogs who participate in The Yellow Dog Project or DINOS need space for a variety of reasons--not necessarily because they’re aggressive. Some might have been recently adopted and are still unsure of their surroundings and unfamiliar with their human. Some might have had surgery and need space to heal. Others might have some behavior issues that cause them to react badly to other dogs, people or children. The whole point of the movement is to protect humans and other animals from getting attacked, due to a misunderstanding about a dog’s temperament or current

Experience Knowledge Integrity

THE LEADER Readers' Choice

Best Local Hardware Store

O

wners Jim and Kathy Stratton and Duane Myers purchased C&D Hardware in 1999 from Mrs. Alice Dai- From front, left to right, Tina, Alan, Deborah ley and her mother, Rosie Arthur, Dan, Elias, Lynn, Jeremy Cobb, widow of Sam Cobb. The store, located at 314 ing a full-line hardware Diet Pet Foods. The store East 11th in the Heights, store, the store also carries a also provides services that was once the site of a re- large selection of home and include: metal screens made cording studio and record garden decor. Looking for and repaired, key cutting, store owned by Pappy Daily a gift? Browse through the glass cutting, lock re-keying, and his sons. With its small- unique selection of gifts for sharpening service, carpet town appeal, C&D Hard- wine enthusiasts, Jim Shore cleaner rental, pipe cutting ware still prides itself on collectibles, candles and and treading, and computer being a family-owned and scented oils, seasonal deco- paint color matching. operated business serving rations, crosses and more. Call 713-861-3551 for helpthe Heights since 1951. The Recently-added products ful advice, to place an order, store has grown through include Traeger Wood Pel- or check for a needed item the years and is constantly let Grills, G.E. Energy Smart in stock. adding products to keep Bulbs, Bona Wood and Hard You can also visit us online up with customers’ needs Surface Cleaners, Science www.CandDHardware.com and expectations. C & D Hardware carved out a niche for itself long ago and continues to strive to maintain outstanding 314 E. 11th Street • 713-861-3551 customer service. Weekdays 8am-6:30pm • Saturday 9am-6pm • Sunday 10am-5pm Although C & D Hardware prides itself on be-

C&D Hardware & Gifts

Voted #1 for Best Antique Store, Best Local Furniture, Best Gift Shop

Thank You 313 W. 19th Street - Houston , TX 77008 713.862.1009 • 713.862.1169


Page 8A • Saturday, July 18, 2015

The Lift to hold month-long celebration For The Leader The Lift, that colorful little bookstore/gift shop at 365 W. 19th Street in the Heights, is celebrating its five-year anniversary this month with an enjoyable slate of events. “These last five years of creating and running my shop have been more joyful and rewarding than I ever could have imagined,� said Rhonda Rhodes, owner of The Lift. “We are now at a truly exciting time in the shop’s history, taking everything to the next level.� Indeed, the shop has come a long way quickly. In the City Voter A-List competition, The Lift recently won Best Bookstore in Houston, and came in second as Best Gift Shop. The Lift has also for the last two years won Best Bookstore through The Leader’s Reader’s Choice awards. The Lift has slated several events for its month-long celebration. On Monday, July 20th from 6 to 7:30 pm, Barry Smotherman, author of the cookbook Texas Tastin, will provide samples of his cooking and a lot of laughter. The book has become a local classic, keeping alive tried and true Texas recipes.

From 6 to 7:30 p.m. July 28, The Lift will host Katherine Center, nationally known author, with her most recent novel, Happiness for Beginners. “Katherine Center not only writes from the heart, but lives from the heart, and so her talks are a delight,â€? stated Rhonda Rhodes, owner of The Lift. The shop will provide refreshments and will have many copies of her book on hand for purchase and signing. Ron Starbuck’s book-signing and poetry-reading event is slated for Friday, July 31st from 6 to 8 pm. Ron is a Heights resident and the author of When Angels Are Born. This gem of a book “celebrates poetry as a language of deep intimacy, a language meant to touch the human spirit and awaken it to the mystery of life, all life.â€? Ron Starbuck, a Heights resident, is not only a poet but a publisher. His nonprofit, Saint Julien Press, publishers and showcases notable poets. Events at The Lift will populate the shop’s calendar beyond just its anniversary month. Aug.1 is White Linen Night. The Lift will be hosting authors, artists, poets, and musicians as well as inviting in various groups for shop-and-

sip evenings. Owner Rhonda Rhodes is also interested in putting together story slams, poetry slams, journaling workshops, and more. For the past few months, Rhodes has been working with a graphics artist to design towels, coasters, koozies, and tshirts that celebrate Houston, Texas, The Heights, the local zip codes, and the surrounding neighborhoods such as Oak Forest and Timbergrove. “These items have turned out beautifully,� said Rhodes. “Since I am from this area, I am really proud of them and love how they are drawing in new customers.� Rhodes grew up in Timbergrove and now lives in Shepherd Park Plaza. She graduated from Waltrip High School, Rice University, and University of Houston Law Center. After many years of raising her family, living “in other lands,� practicing law, and writing, Rhodes returned to the Heights area and opened The Lift. The shop’s showroom is a narrow and deep historic space, but Rhodes is working with her team to rethink the merchandise displays to allow more space for mingling, events, and shopping. “It’s amazing how much fun can

dation will then be handed to administration for city council consideration, according to city documents. Public comments can be submitted by telephone at 832-393-6556, by mail (directed to HPO Review, Planning & Development Dept., PO Box 1562, Houston, TX 772511562) or by email at historic. ordinance@houstontx.gov. Staff members are also available to meet with individuals to collect comments, according to officials.

“One of the key changes we set out to make was to make it so more projects become eligible for administrative approval,� Hartgrove said. The proposed changes fall in line with Parker’s comments in September 2014 regarding the direction for the new ordinance. “We are taking a scalpel, not a hatchet, to the ordinance,� Parker previously said. “There is no intention of a wholesale reconsideration of the changes adopted in 2010.�

be squeezed into this space,� stated Rhodes. The Lift houses an amazing selection of new, good reads in fiction, nonfiction, young adult, and children’s books as well as cookbooks and books of local interest. The Lift offers a delightful variety of gift items, with complimentary bags and tissue. You will find many lines of greeting cards, as well as stationery and journals, as you would expect, but prepare for the unexpected, too. The shop carries Waxing Poetic fine jewelry as well as lines of quality fashion jewelry such as Beaucoup, Anju, and Kate Mesta. Customers browse through Natural Life fashion and decorative accessories, MyWalit fine leather, and Socksmith fun socks. The organic Texas soaps tend to draw customers in with their spa-like scents. If this isn’t enough, The Lift carries toys, refrigerator magnets, and fun coffee mugs, with more finds arriving weekly.

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enable the property to comply with any other applicable city ordinances or state or federal law so as to facilitate compliance with this ordinance and other applicable laws.� A public hearing on the amendment is currently scheduled after the conclusion of the regularly scheduled Houston Archeological and Historical Commission inside city council chambers at the Houston City Hall Annex at 900 Bagby St. The public comment period of the meeting will likely begin closer to 6 p.m., public affairs manager Suzy Hartgrove said. “That works out better to give people a chance to make it into downtown Houston to attend the meeting,� Hartgrove said. The proposed changes are the result of public outcry, lead by coverage in The Leader beginning with the ‘Preservation Perverted’ coverage series in January 2014, and as a result of many hours of work by the Historic Preservation Ordinance Review Committee. First established in late 2014 by Mayor Annise Parker, the committee was designed to review and recommend improvements to the existing historic preservation code which had been heavily scrutinized for its inconsistency and confusing text. Parker instructed the committee to “correct and clarify targeted items and create greater consistency for the applicants and for the Commission,� according to a previous Leader article. On top of the July 22 public hearing, the Planning and Development Department will accept public comments through July 27 and the department will develop a revised draft based on public comments and present this draft to the Commission at the Aug. 27 meeting. Following that meeting, the Commission’s recommen-

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