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Inside Today: Surf ’s still up in Oak Forest • Page 1B

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In a report on conditions near Brinkman Street in North Houston, a lot at 922 Oak St. was discovered overrun with weeds and dead trees. On the lot, a sign indicated the city of Houston had tagged the lot as a nuisance. On Aug. 28, the city’s Department of Neighborhoods sent a crew to clear the property.

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read full story • Page 8A

Last chance for Good Brick nominations

The deadline is fast approaching to nominate historic preservation projects for a 2014 Good Brick Award. Entries must be submitted by 3 p.m. Sept. 9. Updated guidelines and nomination forms may be downloaded at www. preservationhouston.org/awards/. Nominations must be received at Preservation Houston’s oﬃce, 3272 Westheimer Road, Suite 2, by the deadline. To qualify, preservation projects must be located within Harris County and must have been completed within the last three years. Residential, commercial and institutional projects all qualify for awards.?? Anyone may submit a nomination. In the case of building projects, the nominee must be the property owner who carried out the project. Nominating yourself will not aﬀect your chances for receiving an award. For additional information, e-mail contact@preservationhouston.org.?? The 2014 Good Brick Awards will be presented during Preservation Houston’s Cornerstone Dinner on February 21, 2014.

Atmosphere, good food – and family everywhere

TOP: Waiter Isaac Galvan has worked at Cavatore for more than 20 years, and his wife and daughter are employed there, as well – part of the 35 families who owner Federico Cavatore says are responsible for its success. (Photo by Charlotte Aguilar)

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Federico and Dolores Cavatore are the second generation to run their family’s restaurant, which is turning 30 this month. (Photo by Charlotte Aguilar)

BELOW: The kitchen at Cavatore turns out classic Italian specialties and gourmet specials at lunch and dinner. (Photo by Charlotte Aguilar)

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by Charlotte Aguilar and Michael Sudhalter

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When Federico Cavatore discusses his “family business,” as he loves to do, he’s really talking about 35 families –– his own and the extended families of waitstaff, cooks, bartenders and others who’ve kept Cavatore’s Italian Restaurant thriving through 30 years of everything from blissful success to natural disasters to economic downturns. “We’re a very happy family and a very happy staff,” Cavatore said. “We’ve

worked together for countless number of years, and it shows. Everyone puts their heart and soul into this restaurant.” The homey eatery exists in a rustic old Bastrop barn hauled by Giancarlo Cavatore to the 2120 Ella Blvd. site in 1983. Its tables are covered in red-checkered cloths, its walls with memorabilia of Giancarlo’s Italian homeland, the air scented with the welcoming aromas of garlic and herbs. While Giancarlo and his Argentinian wife, Anna, opened the restaurant, now it’s Federico and sister Dolores who run

THE INDEX.

Public Safety Hipstrict Topics Obituaries Coupons Puzzles Sports Classiﬁeds

2A 7B 4A 5A 6A 4B 3B 4B

The federal government has released a draft reevaluating the ﬁnal Environmental Impact Statement for the U.S. 290 Corridor construction project, running from the 610 Loop to FM 2920, and a public meeting will be held Sept. 12 to go over the complex report. The report largely addresses the interim placement of managed toll lanes in the center of the widened highway, from 610 to the Grand Parkway (State Highway 99), but noise issues and more will be discussed at the meeting. “The meeting is informational to help persons prepare comments or prepare for a hearing that will be requested for the Final Re-Evaluation,” said attorney Carol Caul, who is representing the stakeholders’ interest in the construction project. The meeting will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the Lazy Brook Baptist Church, 1822 W. 18th St. Copies of the re-evaluation and public meeting summary report are available for review and reproduction at the Texas Department of Transportation Houston District Headquarters, 7600 Washington Ave. or the US 290 Program Management Consultant ofﬁce at 2950 North Loop West, Suite 1150. It’s also available for review online at www.my290. com for a period of 30 days. Written comments may be mailed to TxDOT Houston District, Attention: Director of Project Development, P.O. Box 1386, Houston, TX 77251-1386, or by e-mail at HOU-PIOWebmail@txdot.gov. The comment review for this review ends on Sept. 18.

Nightclub with new evocative name opens in Oak Forest residents overwhelmingly the NW Mall pleased with S.E.A.L. Security see Cavatore • Page 8A

by Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

Expires 9-15-13

4610 N Shepherd 713-695-5071 ��

it, with an assist from Mom. Federico gets wistful talking about his dad, who died from a heart attack in 2005 after beating cancer ﬁve years earlier. “I wish he could be here to celebrate,” he said. “Thirty years is such a milestone. You don’t see many restaurants making it this far.” Although Federico started raking leaves outside the restaurant at the age of 7, he said his father deliberately kept him and his sister away once they reached

Meeting to be held Sept. 12 on U.S. 290 re-evaluation

James Alexander, director of operations for Strategic Executive and Logistical (S.E.A.L.) Security Solutions, a private security ﬁrm, gave a thorough presentation and answered residents questions last Wednesday night at Frank Black Middle School, concerning contracted neighborhood patrol in the Oak Forest. At one point, the packed auditorium erupted in nearly unanimous applause, causing one of S.E.A.L’s K-9 security dogs to bark in response. That was humorous, but the reason for Wednesday’s meeting was no laughing matter. Oak Forest residents have been vic-

S.E.A.L. director of operations James Alexander gave a presentation and answered questions for Oak Forest residents on Wednesday night at Frank Black Middle School. (Photo by Michael Sudhalter). tims of burglaries and robberies in recent months, so the homeowner’s association made it a point to look into contracted patrol options.

They chose S.E.A.L. over the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable and another private security ﬁrm. Oak Forest HOA president Craig Powers said the goal was getting 25 percent of the residents to pay for the security. The more residents that pay, the more security hours will be provided. Powers said the HOA would like to sign a contract by late October and have the S.E.A.L. ofﬁcers begin patrolling on Nov. 1. Lucy Fisher-Cain, a member of the HOA’s security committee, said the HOA has received payments from 100 people. “We were very pleased, and the people seemed to be pleased, too,” Fisher-Cain said. “We did a lot of vetting. It’s the best

see S.E.A.L • Page 8A

A controversial nightspot opened at the Northwest Mall on the weekend of Aug. 24, and with a different name than originally expected -- one evocative of a former troublespot near that location. Chapa, 444 Northwest Mall, made its debut just weeks after its ownership, Triangle Entertainment, reached a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) mediation agreement with individuals and civic leaders who had originally protested the club’s mixed beverage license. The club was originally supposed to be called Chela’s, which translates to “a cold one‚“ in English. Larkin Stallings, the club’s co-owner, said it was changed to Chapa for marketing reasons. “Chapa doesn’t mean anything -- that’s the silliest thing about it,” Stallings said. Protesters were concerned that Stallings and coowner Mario Anzaldua had been the owners of El Chaparral, which was located in the parking lot of the Northwest Mall from 2007-2012. There was a

see Nightclub • Page 8A

Page 2A • The Leader • Septermber 7, 2013 • @heightsleader

Chilling photos released of deadly Denny’s robbery Surveillance photos of the fatal Denny’s takeover on Washington Avenue Aug. 26 that left one man dead and another wounded show terrifying images of three gunmen rampaging through the restaurant. The armed, black males wearing masks and bandanas took over the eatery, located at 7300 Washington Ave., and terrorized employees and customers. HPD said there were more than 12 diners in the restaurant at the time, including young children. Last week, HPD also identified the customer who was shot to death. Robert Placette, a 64-year-old Katy man who was dining at the restaurant, was pronounced dead at Memorial Hermann Hospital as a result of a gunshot wound. According to an eyewitness account on KHOU.com, Placette tried to intervene when the robbers pointed their weapons at the children. A 43-year-old Denny’s employee reportedly trying to flee the restaurant was shot at the front doorway and taken to Ben Taub Hospital, where a police spokesman said he is recovering from non-life threatening wounds. According to eyewitnesses, the three robbers took purses, cellphones and cash from customers and lotted the register before fleeing in an unknown minivan. One man told KHOU that he heard about 15

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�� Surveillance photos of the takeover of the Denny’s at 7300 Washington Ave., released by police last week, showed three gunmen storming in and roaming the restaurant. (Photos from HPD) shots ﬁred as he lay on the ground. Anyone with information on the case is urged to call HPD homicide investigators at 713-308-3600 or CrimeStoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

Arrest made in Timbergrove assault on HPD officer The Houston Police Department arrested Mario Conde, 21, and charged him with aggravated assault of a public servant at 5:58 p.m. on Aug. 28 at 1750 Seamist. HPD was responding to a suspicious person call when Conde took off running, a spokesman said. When an officer tried to detain him, Conde allegedly grabbed the officer’s pistol, and it went off as they were struggling. Nobody was hit or injured.

Man charged with deadly conduct in tow incident HPD arrested and charged John Bonnin, 37, with deadly conduct, a misdemeanor, on Aug. 26 at 11 p.m. at 4900 Lamonte.

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Bonnin allegedly pointed a gun at a 32-year-old man who was towing his vehicle for parking in a handicapped space at 3737 Watonga. There were no injuries in the case.

Man treated after attack on Studemont

A 58-year-old man was assaulted with a bat on Aug. 26 at 12:59 a.m. in the 900 block of Studemont. The victim was taken to Memorial Hermann Northwest where he was treated for a severe laceration. There is no description of the suspect or known motive in the case. The suspect is wanted on charges of aggravated assault.

Police Reports, Aug. 24-Sept. 1 AUG. 24

Theft 06:45 PM 4700-4799 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 09:30 AM 300-399 19TH ST Assault 04:00 AM 2400-2499 W 18TH Theft 11:00 PM 1400-1499 YALE Theft 06:00 PM 1200-1299 17TH ST Theft 02:30 PM 1400-1499 20TH ST Theft 11:00 PM 1200-1299 WAVERLY Theft 09:00 AM 1400-1499 20TH ST Burglary 02:15 AM 1800-1899 43RD ST Theft 07:30 PM 10900-10999 NORTHWEST FWY

AUG. 25

Theft 06:18 PM 5100-5199 SHEPHERD Theft 10:00 PM 400-499 27TH ST Theft 08:00 PM 1100-1199 COLUMBIA Theft 09:00 AM 1500-1599 NORTH LP SER Burglary 11:45 AM 2500-2599 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 09:00 AM 500-599 DELL CT Theft 12:00 AM 500-599 28TH ST

AUG. 26

Theft 06:00 PM 2900-2999 ELLA BLVD Assault 05:00 PM 800-899 LEHMAN Theft 02:30 PM 1900-1999 TAYLOR Theft 08:30 AM 1100-1199 OLIVER Burglary 09:30 AM 800-899 25TH ST Theft 08:00 PM 1700-1799 T C JESTER Theft 10:00 AM 6500-6599 CINDY LN Burglary 08:00 AM 1800-1899 WHITE OAK DR Theft 09:30 AM 2200-2299 18TH ST Assault 10:40 PM 7300-7399 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 02:30 PM 1400-1499 20TH ST Assault 07:06 AM 5000-5099 YALE Theft 08:00 AM 5400-5499 KATY FWY SER Assault 11:00 PM 4900-4999 LAMONTE Theft 10:00 PM 1300-1399 26TH ST Theft 02:00 PM 4400-4499 KOEHLER Theft 08:00 PM 100-199 YALE Assault 12:59 AM 900-999 STUDEMONT Theft 10:00 PM 4300-4399 MARLBOROUGH Theft 08:00 PM 2400-2499 HACKETT

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Theft 07:15 PM 700-799 T C JESTER Theft 12:29 AM 6400-6499 MAIN Assault 12:32 PM 2200-2299 18TH ST Assault 08:00 PM 3700-3799 CORTLANDT ST Theft 12:00 AM 600-699 10TH ST Burglary 09:00 AM 800-899 WORTHSHIRE Theft 06:15 PM 1800-1899 ELLA BLVD Theft 10:00 AM 300-399 JANISCH RD Theft 02:30 PM 400-499 HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 07:15 AM 1000-1099 12TH ST Burglary 08:00 PM 1300-1399 43RD ST

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Theft 02:22 PM 500-599 19TH ST Theft 07:00 AM 1300-1399 DOROTHY Theft 02:14 AM 2600-2699 PRINCETON Burglary 02:15 AM 1500-1599 18TH ST Robbery 10:28 PM 4400-4499 OXFORD Theft 06:00 PM 4400-4499 SHEPHERD Theft 04:00 PM 100-199 YALE Assault 05:58 PM 1700-1799 SEAMIST Theft 11:15 PM 2200-2299 18TH ST Burglary 03:18 AM 1800-1899 43RD ST Theft 04:50 PM 1800-1899 43RD ST Assault 08:30 PM 200-299 MARATHON Theft 05:00 PM 2500-2599 FAIRWAY PARK DR Theft 02:30 AM 600-699 19TH ST Theft 10:20 AM 4700-4799 34TH ST Theft 08:00 PM 600-699 8TH ST Theft 06:00 PM 800-899 WAVERLY Theft 06:30 PM 400-499 OXFORD ST Burglary 11:00 PM 100-199 CROSSTIMBERS

Burglary 01:48 PM 1000-1099 PINEMONT DR Theft 02:45 PM 2600-2699 N LOOP W Theft 11:30 AM 2600-2699 N LOOP Theft 02:00 PM 5200-5299 34TH ST Burglary 07:25 AM 5200-5299 UBUNTU CT Burglary 08:05 AM 2500-2599 ROY CIR Theft 07:30 AM 100-199 17TH ST Theft 03:00 PM 100-199 YALE Theft 04:00 PM 600-699 40TH ST Burglary 03:36 AM 1800-1899 ELLA Theft 09:00 PM 6200-6299 WASHINGTON AVE Burglary 05:49 PM 4600-4699 CARLEEN Theft 09:00 AM 4000-4099 PINE RIDGE Burglary 08:58 AM 5200-5299 LARKIN Burglary 01:00 PM 1200-1299 WAGNER ST

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Theft 11:50 AM 1200-1299 23RD ST Theft 10:30 PM 700-799 PINEMONT DR Theft 02:00 PM 2200-2299 MANGUM Theft 01:33 AM 1100-1199 23RD ST Theft 09:45 AM 4000-4099 SHEPHERD Theft 6:00 PM 2400-2499 REINERMAN Theft 04:15 PM 4400-4499 SHEPHERD Theft 08:02 PM 1900-1999 TAYLOR Theft 06:15 AM 2100-2199 TANNEHILL Theft 11:45 AM 2200-2299 N LOOP W

AUG. 31

Theft 04:00 PM 700-799 23RD ST Theft 03:54 PM 4000-4099 34TH ST Theft 11:45 PM 900-999 LAWRENCE

SEPT. 1

Burglary 06:45 AM 800-899 DURHAM Theft 10:00 AM 1400-1499 20TH ST Assault 08:55 PM 4400-4499 OXFORD Burglary 09:15 AM 1800-1899 ALTHEA

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

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Page3A • The Leader • September 7, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

New principal hosts inaugural Ram Rally at Waltrip by Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com Waltrip High first-year principal Andria Schur wanted to put together an event that would make each of the school’s stakeholders - students, parents, alumni, and community -- proud. “As the new principal, I wanted to welcome everybody back to school,” Schur said of the inaugural Ram Rally, which was held on Wednesday, Aug. 21 inside the school’s hallways. The three-event event, which featured booths for school activities, sports, alumni groups, a snow

cone truck, an inflatable football tunnel and bounce houses (for younger siblings), was more popular than Schur expected. “We’ll probably (have it again), due to the success of it,” she said. Schur, formerly the principal at Houston ISD’s Barbara Jordan High School for Careers, accepted the Waltrip position in April. She replaced Steve Siebenaler, who resigned, after a decade as principal, in February for personal reasons under a cloud of controversy. Jon Enloe, a 1961 Waltrip High graduate and the school’s Alumni Association president, was pleased with the event.

“The community hasn’t been here in 10 years -- this is a good deal,” Enloe said. “The community has been waiting for a positive experience. This is an opportunity for the community see that Waltrip is surging ahead.” Junior Erick Velasquez purchased a snow cone, while talking with his friend, sophomore Jennifer Gonzalez, in front of the school. “It’s really fun,” Velasquez said. “It’s something new. The new principal is doing something like this to get everyone excited for the school year.” Nora Allala, the mother of

First day excitement for new Oak Forest magnet coordinator by Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com

sophomore Robert Allala, enjoyed the event. She walked through the halls and bought a Waltrip T-Shirt from head football coach Milton Dailey. “I like it, I love it,” Allala said of the event. “It’s nice and very informative. Families are all united (here) -- it’s a community.” Eva Bela, a special education teacher at Waltrip, was impressed with the rally, too. “I think it’s good to get the students and neighborhoods in here,” Bela said. “They can find out what’s going on.”

Waltrip parents sold t-shirts during the inaugural Ram Rally on Aug. 21 at the school. (Photo by Michael Sudhalter)

Community energy needed for Waltrip resurgence by Dr. Jon Enloe Over the past several months, there has been an uncertainty in the Waltrip community about the future of Waltrip High School. Waltrip has a dynamic academic history, and I am happy to report that a positive atmosphere now exists on the school campus and in all of the Waltrip community. Waltrip has a new principal, Andria Schur, and her leadership is having a positive impact on where the school is headed. She has made herself available to everyone who shares an interest in developing a school where students excel and teachers are respected. While Mrs. Schur has a daunting task ahead of her, she has taken charge and will prove to be a great asset to the honored tradition of a great school. A new concept for learning is coming into effect at the start of school this year, and it will be a boost in academic achievement goals. The renovation of the school campus from the 2007 Bond

Program is back on track and is scheduled to be completed within the next 12 months. The additional renovation proposed from the 2012 Bond Program is ready to move forward. Now is the time for the entire community to step forward and support the efforts on the campus to see that every student gets the best education possible, and to support all of the departments as they work to be the best in every aspect. To start, I would ask all of the students, parents, faculty, alumni groups, and friends of Waltrip to make an effort to attend as many of the school events as possible. If you are a parent, join the PTA to show support by becoming a member of this wonderful organization. If you are interested in the sports department, show your support by attending ALL of the scheduled games for girls and boys. It would be a wonderful show of support if the football team could look up to the stands at their games and see it

full of happy people shouting, “Go, Rams!” The same goes for athletic programs, i.e. basketball, volleyball, baseball, track, golf, etc. The “Waltrip Pride” has never gone away; however, we need to raise it to the highest level. All of the extracurricular activities have to raise money for their individual programs, so let’s all do our part and see that each group has the money they need to excel, and gain a vision of what is best to come for Waltrip. I believe that it will not be long before Waltrip will continue to achieve the status of a “Met Standard” school as it has for 2013, and look forward to the day when that designation is the norm for the Waltrip campus. Thanks for reading –– and Go Rams!

The start of school marks a change in a highly visible position at Oak Forest Elementary. New OFE Magnet Coordinator Patricia Shepherd has worked for the Houston Independent School District for 23 years and is ready for the opportunities her position presents. She says she was up at 4 a.m. on Aug. 26 - excited to see all the students arriving with their parents. “Oak Forest has such an amazing reputation,” Shepherd said. “The minute I walked into the school I got a warm feeling. It has everything needed to be the best school in the state – great teachers, Enloe, a member of the Class motivated students, supportive of 1961, is president and chairparents, a caring administration man of the board of the Waltrip and support staff, and a beautiful Alumni Association, Inc. environment. Our motto is ‘Excellence and Heart Set Us Apart.’ I Patricia Shepherd is the new magnet coordinator at Oak Forest Elemenam excited to be a part of it all and tary. (Photo by Betsy Denson) continue the tradition.” In addition to school-wide ad- this summer so she could share ministrative functions, she will her expertise with me.” Shepherd acknowledges the oversee the school’s Vanguard, or Gifted and Talented, program. learning curve, but has already This includes the testing and ad- started laying the groundwork for missions process as well as cur- future success. “It will take me a while to build riculum. Shepherd is proud to be B.O.I., relationships with teachers, stuor born on Galveston Island, and dents, and parents and gain their currently lives in the Heights. She trust,” she said. “Jackie knew all of graduated from Texas A&M Uni- the parents and students and spent versity with a B.A. in speech com- years building those relationmunication and a minor in mar- ships. For the past five years, I have keting. She also has a master’s in worked with different schools all educational management from over the city and learned so much. I look forward to the University sharing my expeof Houstonriences with the Clear Lake “Oak Forest has such teachers and stuCity. She says that an amazing reputation. dents here.” Oak Forest she’s always The minute I walked Principal Jenny wanted to be feels an educator. “I into the school I got a Thomas confident she has have 14 nieces warm feeling.” the right person and nephews for the job. “Ms. who I have • Patricia Shepherd Shepherd brings taught to do with her a wealth many things. of instructional I now have seven great nieces and nephews, so knowledge and lots of energy so I expect a smooth transition,” she the tradition continues.” Before coming to Oak Forest El- said. “I am enthusiastic about her ementary, Shepherd served for five assistance with our mission to years in HISD as a literacy instruc- support the high level of learning tional specialist and a teacher de- of every one of our students.” Shepherd is ready to encourage velopment specialist. She has also The best choice for trauma care in The Heights is now even all OFE students to stretch themspent more than 20 years teaching third- through sixth-grades in selves. “We have been in training better. Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital proudly announces the district. Eleven years into her to come up with techniques to develop our students’ higher order Houston teaching career, she took a two-year position at the Ameri- thinking skills,” she said. the expansion of our emergency services. By adding nearly In her free time, Shepherd and can School in Monterrey, Mexico, her husband like to travel. where she improved her Spanish. 10,000 square feet with the latest medical technologies, we continue She said, “I love new advenShe knows she has big shoes to fill as the previous magnet coordi- tures. This summer my husband to provide the highest quality trauma care right here in our nator, Jacquelyn Maida, had been and I took a vacation to Berlin, Prague and Budapest. It reignited at the school for 34 years. “I have her on speed dial,” Shep- the travel bug. I look at OFE as ancommunity. So in case of emergency, you know where to turn — herd said. “I was fortunate enough other new adventure.” to sit with her for a couple of days

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Page 2A • The Leader • Septermber 7, 2013 • @heightsleader

Chilling photos released of deadly Denny’s robbery Surveillance photos of the fatal Denny’s takeover on Washington Avenue Aug. 26 that left one man dead and another wounded show terrifying images of three gunmen rampaging through the restaurant. The armed, black males wearing masks and bandanas took over the eatery, located at 7300 Washington Ave., and terrorized employees and customers. HPD said there were more than 12 diners in the restaurant at the time, including young children. Last week, HPD also identified the customer who was shot to death. Robert Placette, a 64-year-old Katy man who was dining at the restaurant, was pronounced dead at Memorial Hermann Hospital as a result of a gunshot wound. According to an eyewitness account on KHOU.com, Placette tried to intervene when the robbers pointed their weapons at the children. A 43-year-old Denny’s employee reportedly trying to flee the restaurant was shot at the front doorway and taken to Ben Taub Hospital, where a police spokesman said he is recovering from non-life threatening wounds. According to eyewitnesses, the three robbers took purses, cellphones and cash from customers and lotted the register before fleeing in an unknown minivan. One man told KHOU that he heard about 15

��

�� Surveillance photos of the takeover of the Denny’s at 7300 Washington Ave., released by police last week, showed three gunmen storming in and roaming the restaurant. (Photos from HPD) shots ﬁred as he lay on the ground. Anyone with information on the case is urged to call HPD homicide investigators at 713-308-3600 or CrimeStoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

Arrest made in Timbergrove assault on HPD officer The Houston Police Department arrested Mario Conde, 21, and charged him with aggravated assault of a public servant at 5:58 p.m. on Aug. 28 at 1750 Seamist. HPD was responding to a suspicious person call when Conde took off running, a spokesman said. When an officer tried to detain him, Conde allegedly grabbed the officer’s pistol, and it went off as they were struggling. Nobody was hit or injured.

Man charged with deadly conduct in tow incident HPD arrested and charged John Bonnin, 37, with deadly conduct, a misdemeanor, on Aug. 26 at 11 p.m. at 4900 Lamonte.

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Bonnin allegedly pointed a gun at a 32-year-old man who was towing his vehicle for parking in a handicapped space at 3737 Watonga. There were no injuries in the case.

Man treated after attack on Studemont

A 58-year-old man was assaulted with a bat on Aug. 26 at 12:59 a.m. in the 900 block of Studemont. The victim was taken to Memorial Hermann Northwest where he was treated for a severe laceration. There is no description of the suspect or known motive in the case. The suspect is wanted on charges of aggravated assault.

Police Reports, Aug. 24-Sept. 1 AUG. 24

Theft 06:45 PM 4700-4799 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 09:30 AM 300-399 19TH ST Assault 04:00 AM 2400-2499 W 18TH Theft 11:00 PM 1400-1499 YALE Theft 06:00 PM 1200-1299 17TH ST Theft 02:30 PM 1400-1499 20TH ST Theft 11:00 PM 1200-1299 WAVERLY Theft 09:00 AM 1400-1499 20TH ST Burglary 02:15 AM 1800-1899 43RD ST Theft 07:30 PM 10900-10999 NORTHWEST FWY

AUG. 25

Theft 06:18 PM 5100-5199 SHEPHERD Theft 10:00 PM 400-499 27TH ST Theft 08:00 PM 1100-1199 COLUMBIA Theft 09:00 AM 1500-1599 NORTH LP SER Burglary 11:45 AM 2500-2599 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 09:00 AM 500-599 DELL CT Theft 12:00 AM 500-599 28TH ST

AUG. 26

Theft 06:00 PM 2900-2999 ELLA BLVD Assault 05:00 PM 800-899 LEHMAN Theft 02:30 PM 1900-1999 TAYLOR Theft 08:30 AM 1100-1199 OLIVER Burglary 09:30 AM 800-899 25TH ST Theft 08:00 PM 1700-1799 T C JESTER Theft 10:00 AM 6500-6599 CINDY LN Burglary 08:00 AM 1800-1899 WHITE OAK DR Theft 09:30 AM 2200-2299 18TH ST Assault 10:40 PM 7300-7399 WASHINGTON AVE Theft 02:30 PM 1400-1499 20TH ST Assault 07:06 AM 5000-5099 YALE Theft 08:00 AM 5400-5499 KATY FWY SER Assault 11:00 PM 4900-4999 LAMONTE Theft 10:00 PM 1300-1399 26TH ST Theft 02:00 PM 4400-4499 KOEHLER Theft 08:00 PM 100-199 YALE Assault 12:59 AM 900-999 STUDEMONT Theft 10:00 PM 4300-4399 MARLBOROUGH Theft 08:00 PM 2400-2499 HACKETT

AUG. 27

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AUG. 28

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Page 4A • The Leader • September 7, 2013 • @heightsleader

Spamalot: What happens when you run a website I

f you’re hoping to read anything of educational value today, I apologize in advance. In fact – should you choose to continue reading – you will look back on the next six or seven minutes and realize you’ll never reclaim them. Fair warning. One of the things we appreciate most at our newspaper is that many of our readers have developed a relationship with The Leader. The relationship goes something like this: We write a story, said reader calls, or writes, or sends a clipping of a speciﬁc part of the paper that needs immediate correction. In the case of one reader last week, we received a cut-out copy of our crossword and Sudoku puzzles with bullet-pointed comments to one sentence we publish at the top of our puzzles: “Solutions [can be found] in this issue’s classiﬁed section.” Obviously, we print that sentence for those people who would like to check their work. Or, if you work crosswords the way I did during particularly interesting college lectures, the solutions provide the impetus to continue. (If I could just get “5 across,” I might be able to get the other six words.) That’s not what one of our readers believes, though. This person circled the sentence “Solutions in this issue’s classi-

JONATHAN MCELVY Publisher

fied section,” and wrote the following: “Question: Why? “a.) Do you really care if we cheat? “b.) Trying to trick us into looking at classifieds?” Busted. Actually, we had never considered the conspiracy capabilities of our puzzles. Classified sections used to be pages and pages of want ads and used refrigerators. Craigslist – and good for him – figured out a way to move products cheaper (if you don’t mind the risk of having pretty much no filter between buyer and seller). Our answer to reclaiming the Classified battle, obviously, was to trick you into reading them. Beginning next week, we’re going to hide a $30 bill in each newspaper. If you read the entire Classified section backwards, twice, you’ll find it.

It’s one thing when we receive a letter from a reader. We actually appreciate those, even when they involve silent, black helicopters. But what you all may not know is that we have an entire world of other readers out there who you never hear about – and you can thank us in a moment. We have what I believe is a fairly robust website, and just like anything digital these days, owning a website also means you have to deal with legions of businesses who are trying to make money off you. Here’s how it works: We put a story on our site, www.theleadernews.com. As soon as that story is posted, scam businesses all over the world (think call centers here) begin commenting on those stories. Luckily for us, every comment that is posted must be approved before the rest of the civilized world can read it. And unfortunately for you, most of those comments are ﬂagged as spam, meaning you never get to read them. There’s a time and place for everything, and for just this once, I thought you might enjoy reading some of the utterly ridiculous comments we receive every day at The Leader. It’s football season, and we’re getting a rash of comments from companies trying to pawn off jerseys. What better way to

trick us into running their fake ad than by teaching young people one of life’s most important lessons: “I want to ensure that all my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God’s creatures with kindness and respect. As expected, the Steelers also ruled out right tackle Marcus Gilbert (ankle) and safety Troy Polamalu (calf) and center Maurkice Pouncey is questionable with a knee Greg Lloyd Jersey injury.” Best part: This is a Cleveland Browns (the oldest Steelers rival in the NFL) fake jersey site. Our curious columnist Lynn Ashby gets interesting comments to his weekly column. In fact, you’d think some of these international companies actually know Lynn. Said one comment: “It’s like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book on it or something. I think that you can do with some pics to drive the message home a bit, but other than that, this is a fantastic blog. A great read. I’ll deﬁnitely be back.” The note came courtesy of a company called “How to Get Healthy Skin Fast,” and obviously they haven’t seen the “pic” of Lynn with his cigar, which obviously is no good for skin health. Spammers also have a wonderful way of

making you feel like you’re the best writer in the world. Obviously, we know it’s a ploy for us to include their comments, thus inviting you to view their ridiculous products. But it’s fun thinking they actually mean these things: “Undoubtedly like your website and you have to examine the transliteration upon many of your blogposts.” You can’t make this stuff up, no matter how much transliteration you examine. “Exceptional issues altogether, you simply earned this latest visitor. What exactly may a person advise regarding distribute that you simply developed a few days before? Just about any guaranteed?” Yes. And my all-time favorite – at least this week – is one business’s pen-pal request: “Thank you for the auspicious writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to far added agreeable from you! By the way, how can we communicate?” Tell you what. Read our Classiﬁed section backwards, twice. You’ll ﬁnd my answer. Email jonathan@theleadernews.com

THE READER. Another voice for Durham ES

Posted to www.theleadernews.com I’d like to chime in with a “ditto” to Elizabeth Humbert’s comments and challenge The Leader to consider a follow-up article that explores the Durham community in more detail. You used one person as the voice for the parent sentiment at the school and took her quotes as the only source for details about how the community reacted to the principal changes at Durham. Yes, some families chose to go elsewhere. Yes, some faculty members moved on. But there are still many of us that stand by Durham and know that our children are academically well cared for. If you had interviewed Ms. Sugarek or someone else from HISD I think you would ﬁnd that our student population is thriving and the school year is kicking oﬀ with a very positive vibe amongst the parents and faculty that stuck with Durham or transferred from other areas near our community. I know the bulk of my comments aren’t directly related to safety issues noted in the articles, but I have personally not felt any more worry for my daughter at Durham than I would feel at most schools in HISD. We are an urban school district with schools surrounded by diversity and crime potential. That’s why I love living in central Houston. But, I trust the Durham faculty with my child and I choose to do all that I can to help advocate for the resources the school

needs to improve itself. In my opinion, the number one thing that Durham needs is an engaged and active parent and community base. So, I challenge the SPP and CPP residents to consider how they can help to be a solution for Durham Elementary School. I’d expect the most unsafe times of the day are at drop oﬀ and pick up. Perhaps local neighbors could join with us in the Durham PTA to have more people helping to safely direct the children into the school and keep parents behaving appropriately when driving through the area. The Durham PTA can be contacted here: DurhamDalmatiansPTA@hotmail.com Tonia Whitney

Pricey homes rezoned to Oak Forest ES

Posted to THE LEADER on Facebook Money = Power Jaime Puente

Dear Editor: I’m sure some would disagree about the more capacity especially since the school was telling neighborhood parents their wasn’t enough room for their children to attend even with being their zoned school. Kelly Ramos Dear Editor: There was a concern from one parent over

Now tackle this

Posted to www.theleadernews.com Now that attention has been focused upon the problem of crime in the area bounded by Brinkman and North Shepherd, this is an opportune time to call attention to another major problem in the same vicinity, namely, the perils associated with the intersection of North Shepherd Drive with Curtin and with Thornton. Several distinct hazards combine to make the two intersections extremely dangerous, for both the pedestrian and the motorist. Installation of a traﬃc signal with left-turn arrows at Thornton would make life safer for both the pedestrian and the motorist on North Shepherd, and would provide great beneﬁt to the residents of Shepherd Park Plaza who use North Shepherd for ingress and egress to the subdivision. L. Harris

Not ready for crime time Hi, Neighbors. Each month we bring you the local crime report in Running Rats Acres to help you keep abreast of what your sticky-fingered neighbors are up to: A house burglary on Screwworm Lane resulted in the theft of two bowling trophies, baby shoes, a wedding portrait and $2,000 in cash. The owner would like the $2,000 in cash returned because “it has great sentimental value.” In the 300 block of Weeping Wound Way a house was burglarized sometime during July while the owners were away doing community service. Nothing was taken, but the burglars left a note expressing their sympathies for the house’s condition and a $10 bill. In that same block, a resident filed a complaint that someone stole his burglar alarm. Police report that vandals broke into Melba’s Unpainted Furniture Store and painted everything. The constable’s office points out that residents should not dial 911 when the TV cable goes out. Incidentally, there is new emergency phone number for dyslexics: 119. Authorities are viewing video tape of a break-in at Lou’s Adult Book Store & Children’s Clothing Boutique which shows two people, probably men or women, between the ages of 17 and 60, black, Hispanic, white or possible Asian. They were wearing baseball caps of undetermined color, ski masks and jackets or vests or maybe overcoats. If you have any information on the identify of these alleged perpetrators call 1-800-SNITCH. You may receive a reward. Then again, you may not. The Running Rats Acres Little League reports someone stole third base. The Home Owners Association would like to commend Deputy Bill “The Badger” Badge for apprehending the notorious Bee Bandit. “Hive been working on the case for weeks. It was a honey of an arrest,” he said. “I set up a sting operation.” Sen. Ted Cruz filed a complaint against a local resident who claims Cruz was really born in Kenya. The senator explained that he’s a cousin of Tom Cruz. This summer’s Flies of Texas Festival was broken up by the SWAT team. Residents of the 5000 block of Python Fang Point say that a flasher has been hiding behind hedges and, when someone approaches,

A SH BY AT L ARG E

the flasher jumps out and shows pictures of his grandchildren. On a housekeeping note, the annual Take a Truncheon to Luncheon Appreciation Gala has been cancelled because someone stole the hot plate. A report filed on Monday about a 230-foot yacht missing in Town Lake has been ruled a practical joke. “We were taking it seriously until the complainant also claimed his yacht held 100 ostriches dressed in tutus,” the desk sergeant said. Due to a misunderstand, inmates in the city jail will no longer be supplied with an iPhone, iPad and iSaw. Apparently the chief jailer did not fully comprehend the term “cell phone.” Be on the lookout for whoever is spraying graffiti on the City Hall front door. It is covering over last week’s graffiti, which was much better. The Running Rats Democratic Club reports its supply of fake voter IDs is missing. A driver in the 2900 block of Pothole Place reports a hit-and-run accident, but wouldn’t give his name, make of car or license plate number. The Aaron Burr High School Taser Team will hold try-outs on Friday. Also, the ACLU has submitted a criminal charge demanding the Aaron Burr High Booster Club refrain from hosting its annual Boosters Roosters Picnic. An ACLU spokesman said, “The event violates the separation of religion and state since the boosters are serving Church’s Fried Chicken.” Sheriff ’s deputies confirmed they have apprehended the rustler who stole two colts and a mare from the Saddle Sore Dude Ranch. The alleged perpetrators is under horse arrest. The Texas Bankrupt & Trust reports it is missing $3 million in cash along with two clerks and the banks’ video cameras. The bank’s president said, “We think it was an inside

I know, you won’t believe there’s that much leg room until you see it.

the issue of being zoned to but not being able to register at Oak Forest Elementary. That issue was resolved and I spoke with the registrar and a member of the PTA board spoke with Ms Thomas and not one single person that was zoned to OFE was turned away. They worked extremely hard to make sure that every zoned student that tried to register was enrolled. Jenny Forrester Reitmeyer

job.” A resident under the Federal Witness Protection Program complains that a concrete truck drove up to his house and the driver asked for his shoe size. The Running Rats Acres PD has issued an apology to KRUD-TV for sending over a video supposedly showing a robbery at the Choke & Puke restaurant, which turned out to be video of the department’s Christmas party. The chief hopes this will resolve the four divorce filings along with the eight accusations of sexual harassment, and lead to the recovery of two patrol cars. Justice of the Peace Gabe Gavel has filed regicide charges against Attorney Casey Closed, specifically for murdering the King’s English, after Closed told Justice Gavel his job is easy, adding, “You don’t have to be a docket scientist.” Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst has filed a complaint with the police chief, accusing officers of arresting his step-niecein-law for shoplifting and not releasing her even after discovering the relationship between the two. “Do you know who I am?” Dewhurst explained. The desk sergeant answered, “Yeah, you’re the wuss who lost to that Canadian.” An alleged culprit, caught shoplifting at the Moribund Funeral Home, refused to be handcuffed and was charged with resisting a wrist. A customer has filed a complaint alleging that she found meat in her Big Mac. A vendor at the town’s sales rally reported someone stole a Starving Artist’s water color of the Unknown Soldier. The painting is filed under Missing in Auction. At the flea market, someone lifted two bowling trophies, baby shoes, a wedding portrait and $2,000 in cash. A citizen reports that, during the recent garbage strike, she put all her trash in pretty gift boxes and left them in the back seat of her car, then parked it at the mall. When she returned the bags were gone. She doesn’t want them back. A bill has been introduced in the Texas Legislature by Lt. Gov. Dewhurst to strip all state funding from the Running Rats Acres Police Department. Police report finding a 230-foot yacht in Town Lake with 100 ostriches dressed in tutus. Ashby is arresting at ashby2@comcast. net

TRENDS TO REED

Tubing, Heights-style by Michael Reed Tesla entrepreneur Elon Musk’s plan for a high-speed transit tube on the West Coast got me to thinking that maybe the same sort of hyperloop technology could alleviate some of the traffic problems faced by commuters right here in the Heights. I know, you’re a bit of a skeptic at heart, especially when it comes to “Futurama”inspired modes of transit. You think you can point to at least half a dozen reasons why his plan won’t work: the cost, the 380-mile distance he hopes to cover, the fact that even when built no one on Earth would ever depart dreamy San Francisco for smoggy L.A. … I get it, but where you see flawed logic on the Gold Coast, I see nothing but opportunity on the home front. That’s why I’m proposing something cheaper, much shorter and far less destination-challenged: The Heights Hyperloop, which would span a scant four or five miles, soaring high above the freak show that present-day Yale Street is becoming, directly into downtown Houston. Think about it: it’s a sound business proposition. The West Coast project is supposed to cost $6 billion, but at roughly 1/75th the distance ours should run a mere $80.3 million – that is so long as Metro doesn’t get involved. That’s chicken feed, comparatively speaking. Just think of the time you’ll save, too. The S.F.-to-L.A. hyperloop is supposed to

travel 800 mph. I’m guessing ours will be a little slower, just because we won’t have enough distance to build up that much speed. I’m no rocket scientist, but I am a journalist, which is almost as good, and I’m pretty sure we can split the difference and get the Heights Hyperloop ramped up to at least 400 mph. You know, slightly faster than the guy in the massive Ram truck with tinted windows who always seems to be right on your bumper once you finally get off Yale and onto I-10. By my estimates, if the West Coast trip is supposed to take half-an-hour, your local commute should last a scant two minutes as you float along on a cushion of air in the cylindrical pod that carries you to your destination. Why, that’s hardly enough time to glance around dismissively at other passengers before checking your iPhone. It’s certainly not long enough to go to the added expense of installing a lavatory, though I do like the sound of “hyperloop pooper.” It has a nice ring to it. The California plan calls for fares of $20, so I’m guessing a buck-fifty should be about right for our little hyperloop. That way everyone will want to take part. So, what becomes of Yale Street when no one is driving anymore, you ask. Well, it’s already paved and, I figure, skateboarders could always use another place to hang out … Reed is a veteran journalist whose many years of covering Houston have given him an uncanny ability to examine things askance.

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Page 5A • The Leader • September 7, 2013 • @heightsleader

NEWS FROM YOUR PEWS

OBITUARIES William F. “Bill” Boswell, 89, born April 11, 1924 in Sour Lake, Texas, died Aug.

29. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Medical Corps. He was a distribution manager with Montgomery Ward until his retirement in 1992. Boswell was an active member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church since 1963, member of the Golden Youth, 55+ organization, Lodge 88 SPJST and an Honorary Life Member of Knights of Columbus. He is survived by his sons Mike, David, Andy and Pat Boswell, daughter Peggy Ekster, 13 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Ambrose Catholic Church building fund.

Oscar R. Gomez, born July 27, 1931, died Aug. 28. Gomez served his country in

the U.S. Marines. He was a jeweler for more than 38 years. He was a longtime member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church where he served as an usher. He is survived by his wife Lillie, son Oscar Jr., daughter Cindi Carroll, and six grandchildren.

Charles A. Gurrola, 81, born Sept. 25, 1931 in Galveston, died Aug. 29. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, he returned home to marry his wife, Nicoloza on April 17, 1952. He was the founder and president of Gurrola Reprographics, a family owned business that has been serving Houston since 1969. Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Nicoloza, sons Charles and Kenneth Gurrola, daughters Diana Jozwiak, Sylvia DeJohn, Patricia Osterhaus and Debra Simons, 15 grandchildren, and ﬁve great-grandchildren. Frankie Tannie Gusemano, 86, born April 18, 1927 in Houston, died Aug. 27. He graduated in 1945 from John H. Reagan High School where he excelled in football, and served his country in the United States Navy. He was an amateur boxer in his youth, a restaurant owner/manager for many years, a building contractor, property owner/manager, master carpenter, and lifelong avid golfer. He is survived by his daughter Toni King, son Tannie Gusemano, and three grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 3600 Brinkman, Houston 77018. Janice Dee Mixon, 69, born Jan. 3, 1944 in Houston, died Aug. 30. She is survived by sons Mark and Brett Swinden, sister Norma Baucum, and three grandchildren. Jesse Benton Myers, born Oct. 12, 1917 in Electra, Texas, died Aug. 26 in Temple.

He served his country in the Military. Myers is survived by sons Jimmy and David, daughter Judy, three grandchildren, and one great-grandson. Memorial contributions may be made to Terrace United Methodist Church.

Stephen Clay Nowlin, 56, born Feb. 21, 1957 in Houston, died Aug. 26. Nowlin

was a graduate of Sam Houston State University and owner of Claymark Construction Company. He is survived by his wife Terry, children Casey and Cody, brother Mark, and sister Roseann.

Betty Jo Pate, born Oct. 30, 1929 in Houston, died Aug. 25. Among her accom-

plishments was being a member of the Carlton Cadettes, the drill team at Jeﬀ Davis High School. She majored in drama at the University of Houston, where she excelled in acting and stage performance. Pate taught ﬁrst grade for 30 years for HISD. She is survived by her children Charles Dee Pate and Gina Jo Pate, and sister Virginia Durrett.

Bennie Phillips, 90, born Sept. 8, 1922 in San Augustine, Texas, died Aug. 30 in

Magnolia. Phillips grew up in the Heights where he attended Hamilton and Reagan High School. He honorably served in the U.S. Air Force WWII. He retired from Texas Pipe and Bending and was a member of Local 211 for 50 years. Bennie was also a member of Garden Oaks Masonic Lodge, 32nd Degree Master Mason and Yale Street Baptist Church. He is survived by his daughter Candy Brigance, son Gary Phillips Sr., three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Josephine Schlebach, 96, born Feb. 6, 1917 in Frydek, Texas, died Aug. 28.

Schlebach was a founding member of St. Theresa Catholic Church in Memorial Park. She is survived by her daughters Sister Charline Schlebach, C.V.I., Jo Garcia and Sophie Lindsay, ﬁve grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Theresa Church, 6622 Haskell St., Houston 77007.

St. Jerome Catholic School now enrolling students

Now in its 51st year, St. Jerome Catholic School, 8825 Kempwood, is enrolling students in pre-K through eighth-grade, with ECC available for ages 6 weeks to 3 years old. Before and after school care is available. To set up a tour or for information, e-mail stcs@stjeromecs.org or call 713-468-7946. Visit the website at www.stjeromecs.org.

St. Stephen’s to launch new GriefShare session

GriefShare, a nationally recognized program of support for those grieving the loss of a loved one, will begin a new group at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 12, in Room 101. The sessions run for 13 weeks and are self-contained, so one can begin at any time. The cost is $15 for a workbook. For information, call 713-686-8241, or visit www.stsumc.org.

Oaks Christian sponsoring rummage sale

Oaks Christian Church, 1216 Bethlehem, will hold its annual rummage sale from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 6, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 7, in Kirchner Hall. On Sept. 7, starting at 11 a.m., shoppers can “ﬁll a brown paper bag” for $1.50. Sale proceeds go toward the Mission Fund.

Spaghetti dinner spotlights St. Rose’s Father Clint

St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 3600 Brinkman, is hosting its annual Cooking with Father Clint Spaghetti Dinner from 4-7 p.m. Sept. 7. Tickets are $8, and the meal includes spaghetti with meat sauce, salad, bread and drinks. Takeouts are available, and desserts will be sold. The funds will be used for scholarships and to help put on the two ACTS retreats held each year. An eight-part Introduction to the Bible Timeline will be held Tuesday evenings 7-8:30 p.m. through Oct. 22 in the Administration Building. The DVD/discussion study features Jeff Cavins. The cost of $20 covers workbook and study materials. For information call 713-692-9123 or visit the website at www.stroselima.org.

month, birthday celebrations and seminars, such as cooking classes, jewelry making, a history lecture, and a travel presentation by Rev. Msgr. Adam McClosky. Day trips include a walking tour of downtown and trips to Galveston and a casino. A fashion show luncheon will be held Oct. 11 with fashions from Draper’s and Damon’s. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased beginning the ﬁrst day of the semester. A full course hot lunch is available at noon Monday through Friday during the semester for $3. Call 713-248-1277 for lunch reservations or for program information.

Men cooking up spaghetti at St. Ambrose

The Men’s Club spaghetti dinner will be held from 5-7 p.m. Sept. 20, in the school cafeteria at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 4213 Mangum Road. The cost is $7 a plate, and will include spaghetti with meat sauce, tossed salad, breadsticks and iced tea. Only advance tickets will be sold only and can be purchased from Men’s Club members or after Mass Sept. 14-15. Call 713-686-3497 for information or to purchase tickets.

Houston Citywide Ushers to host convention

The Houston City Wide Interdenominational Ushers and Nurses Union will host the 86th annual city convention Sept. 25-28 at the 5th Ward BC Carl Walker Building, 4300 Noble St. The school of ushering will be 6-7 p.m. followed by the general session from 7:15-8:30 p.m. each day. The program will conclude at 5 p.m. Sept. 28, with a banquet honoring Kathryn Scurry and Lawrence Smith. City Councilman C.O. Bradford will be the guest speaker. A donation of $20 is requested. AdCall # 35523 713-675-5439 for information.

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MANNA hosts food fair

Ministry Assistance of the Near Northwest Alliance will be hosting a Food Fair from 9 a.m.-noon Sept. 7 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 7822 Northline. Must have ID. Christmas is coming to MANNA for the month of September, with Christmas items, trees, ornaments and decorations available for early bird shoppers. MANNA is giving a free Christmas tree stand for every purchase over $25, while supplies last. MANNA is a coalition of churches and community partners that provide social services in near northwest Houston, and it’s seeking volunteers for the Assistance Program, Vision Center, Food Pantry and Resale Store. For information call 713-504-5486 or e-mail pdornak@gmail.com.

TALC registering for fall classes

All Saints Third Age Learning Center, 215 E. 10th St., will hold its fall semester classes for seniors 50-plus beginning Sept. 9-Nov. 15. Registration for classes will continue the ﬁrst two weeks of the semester, Sept. 9-20. Among the offerings are computer, line dancing, stained glass, watercolor, machine quilting and exercise courses. There will be parties each

St. Ambrose School gala to honor educators

The St. Ambrose Catholic Joseph Donald “Don” Winslow Jr., 76, born Dec. 14, 1936, died Aug. 30. He School community, 4213 Magearned a Bachelor of Arts in 1959 and a Bachelor of Science in 1960 from Rice Institute. num, is gearing up for its “Call of He was a licensed professional engineer enjoying a 52-year career in the petrochemical the Wild” gala, Oct. 5 at the J.W. industry with more than 20 patents to his credit. Winslow had a special love for dogs Marriott Galleria. and was a founding member and visionary of the AstroWorld Series of Dog Shows now Honorees will be Sister Donna known as the Reliant Park World Series of Dog Shows. He is survived by his loving wife of Pollard, head of school at St. Pius 55 years, Barbara, brother Mark Winslow, son Joseph D. Winslow, III, daughters Kathleen X High School, and Sister Jane Farlow, Alison Winslow and Melissa Sorley, and 16 grandchildren. Memorial contributions Meyer, head of school at St. Agmay be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2400 Augusta Dr., Houston 77057. nes Academy. Don Nelson, KTRK Channel 13 personality, will be the Lorine Elnora Zoch, 92, born June 22, 1921 in Giddings, died Aug. 29. She master of ceremonies. has been a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church for more than 75 years. Zoch is Auction donations are being survived by her daughters Margaret Zoch, Betty Henley and Nadine Lightsey, four grand- sought, and group tables are availchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice able for purchase for the fundraisCompassus, 1770 St. James Place, Suite 330, Houston 77056 or to Wildlife Center of Texas, ing event, which annually brings in

more than $90,000 to the school. There will be a live auction, raffle, silent auction and Big Board auction, with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting St. Ambrose. The “Cofkaffle” features grand prizes of one year of tuition for the 2014-’15 school year, and a $5,000 cash prize. Pre-event raffle tickets are sold in groups of five for $100. At the event, cost will be four for $100. For more, visit www.sashornets. org/news/gala.

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Church Guide

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

GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH Reverend John Cain, Pastor

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

“The Heart of the Heights”

1245 Heights Blvd.

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

713 862-8883

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

1822 W. 18th

(Disciples of Christ)

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

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

www.gospeltruthchurch.org

Grace United Methodist Church

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4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227

1624 W 34th • 713-686-7689

www.gethsemanelutheran.org

Oaks Presbyterian Church

Sunday School - 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m. Nursery Provided

Ministering to the Oak Forest Community since 1948 Reverend Noelie Day

(713) 682-2556 1576 Chantilly @ Piney Woods Sunday - Bible Study For All Ages .. 9:30am Morning Worship............ 10:45am Age Graded Zones ...........6:15pm Wed. Prayer Meeting & Missions Organization .....................6:15pm Dr. John W. Neesley - Senior Pastor

713-864-1470

Member of MANNA

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

Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship10:45 AM Pastor Don Joseph Member of MANNA Visit us on FaceBook www.oakscchouston.org

Nursery Provided Spirit Led Worship 713-861-3102 201 E. 9th St. • Houston TX 77007

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n his rst ofcial meeting with journalists, the new pope gave some insight into why he chose the name Francis. After the twothirds vote was reached, a fellow cardinal from Brazil, Claudio Hummes, embraced him and said to him “Don’t forget about the poor.” This stuck with him, he said, and immediately made him think of St. Francis, who was devoted to the poor, renouncing his father’s considerable wealth as a young man and living essentially as a poor beggar. St. Francis was known as “Il Poverello,” the little poor man. Pope Francis went on to say that as the vote-counting continued he thought about war, and St. Francis’s devotion to peace. The rst line of the prayer of St. Francis says “Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.” And nally, St. Francis was enamored of nature and saw God’s hand in all of physical creation. Pope Francis summarized his choice of names by saying “Francis of Assisi...the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and guards creation.” This was a good choice of names, and inspiring ideals for the man leading the world’s largest Christian denomination. “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” ~ Psalm 82: 3-4 ~

Join us for Services in English or Spanish

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Candlelight Church of Christ

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MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

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

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

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

Page 1B • The Leader • September 7, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

Surf’s still up

Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce calendar Breakfast Connection Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel 3000 North Loop West 6:30-8:30 a.m. Sept. 12 Speaker: Charles Alvarez Topic: The 3 Biggest Lead Generation Mistakes Businesses Make and How to Overcome Them

at Oak Forest institution after 45 years

Discover the equation that marketers are calling the most powerful tool in selling today. Charles will discuss the qualities that make up the key messages that every marketing campaign must have to attract more leads than ever before.

by Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com Lloyd Sandel, co-owner of the Surfhouse on West 34th Street with wife Carol, is both realistic and upbeat about the pastime that helps keep them in business. “Every place else is better [for surfing], but we’re better than Butte, Montana,” he said. For 45 years, surfers and skateboarders have come to the Surfhouse to get advice and gear for their passions. Lloyd, who spent some of his formative years surfing in California, started out fixing skateboards but soon was selling them. Carol Sandel says that with the closing of Pat Magee’s Surf Shop in Port Aransas, Texas, the Surfhouse is now the oldest surf shop in Texas. It’s the oldest skate shop, too. Three years after they married, the Sandels started their business on Spring Branch Drive. Six months later they relocated to 34th Street. “I was very familiar with Oak Forest,” said Carol. The Sandels shared the small strip mall with the Bamboo Lounge, a bakery, Oak Forest Lawn Mower Shop and Leo’s Flowers – all gone now. The candy shop has been a neighbor since 1982. Over the years, the Surfhouse has remained in business while competitors have closed their doors. “There used to be three other major shops in Houston and none in Galveston,” said Carol. “Now they’re all in Galveston.” She attributes their own perseverance to a huge surf community since the 1960s – a lot of whom still live in Houston – and the explosion of interest in skateboarding in the 1970s and 1980s. Lloyd and Carol Sandel have owned the Surfhouse since 1967. “Once you’ve been a surfer, you stay a surfer,” she said. “And when these guys are in their 40s, their kids are ready to go.” She notes the success of the (Photo by Betsy Denson) Texas Surf Camp as an example of how the younger generation is embracmaintains web cameras at Surfside and Galveston so that customers can see ing the sport. They get a lot of car guys, too. “Surfing and cars go together,” said Carol, what the surf is doing. The Sandels joke about the “rustic look” of their shop and talk about the pointing at all the model cars, which have been gifts from customers. On the skateboarding front, Carol is a big supporter of local talent. She cur- impassioned public who insists they keep the store just the way it is. “People will not let us change anything,” said Lloyd. “I attempted to change rently works with the Sowle Sisters, skateboard phenoms from Houston. What they sell the most of depends on the day. “Some days it’s all T-shirts,” the cash register, and started getting calls immediately. I had to bring the old said Carol. The Surfhouse carries their own brand now, with a logo that high- one back.” “You’ll get people who say ‘I put that sticker on the floor in 1983,’” said lights their longevity. They sell surfboards on consignment and also offer their own brand, which Carol. It’s this same nostalgia that brings fathers and grandfathers back with their Lloyd designs with a friend and gets made in California. Called Octagon, for the popular surfing site in Surfside, the boards are es- little ones. They insist that Lloyd put together their child’s first skateboard, pecially designed for Texas Gulf surf which is slow and mushy. “You need just like he did for them. Sometimes they even take pictures. One person who may, or may not, have visited the Surfhouse back in the substance under your feet,” said Carol. Lloyd says that people who are traveling for the first time to surf in Mexico day is Waltrip graduate Patrick Swayze. “He was not a surfer,” said Carol. “He or elsewhere often ask him how he thinks they’ll handle it. He tells them that was a dancer and a cowboy. But who would know? He was Buddy then, not surfing elsewhere is “too easy” after they’ve mastered our area. “You have to Patrick Swayze.” For more information about the Surfhouse, visit it on Facebook or at http:// work to be a good surfer here,” he said. He still rides the waves occasionally, when they are good. The Surfhouse www.surfhousesurfcam.com/.

Annual Meeting & Business After Hours Sponsored by St. Joseph Medical Center in the Heights 1917 Ashland St. 5-7 p.m. Sept. 19 Tour the area’s newest medical center and vote on important Chamber items at the annual meeting.

Member Orientation Heights Chamber Oﬃce 545 W. 19th St. 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Sept. 25

New and veteran members can learn to maximize Chamber membership during this lunch session. Included are a review of the many opportunities to promote a business, which are automatically included in Chamber membership. No cost to attend, lunch provided. RSVP required.

Heights Young Professionals 6-8 p.m. Sept. 26 Black Finn American Grill 1910 Bagby St. Sponsored by Kress Employment Screening

Kick back with this energizing group that has a strong following. Join the social atmosphere, friendly smiles and networking opportunities.

2013 Heights Chamber Gala “Masquerade at Monte Carlo” 7 p.m. Sept. 27

Tuxedos, evening gowns and carnival masks are in order for the Chamber’s 26th annual gala, replicating the casino tables of Monte Carlo. Highlights will include awarding of ﬁrst Achievement Awards and honoring charter members Contact Gala Chair Craig Atkinson at 713-864-4438 to donate or participate as a sponsor or auction item donor.

Making Waves Business Seminar Cruise Nov. 14-18

Mix business and pleasure on a Chamber-sponsored Caribbean cruise on Carnival’s recently refurbished Triumph. For information visit the Chamber website at www.heightschamber.com, or contact Doug or Kathy Burns at Culturally Creative Travel, 713-688-6793.

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Page 2B • The Leader • September 7, 2013 • @heightsleader

A reinvented business by Cynthia Lescalleet For The Leader

No two work days are the same for Kathleen Maartens of Exhibit Network, the exhibit house she and husband Lenny Maartens cofounded nearly 25 years ago. Client preferences and business conditions tend to change quickly in the highly competitive, fast-paced industry of creating, building and managing custom exhibits and displays for trade shows, she explains. Given that, the company’s longterm success comes from two attributes common to the industry and to small business in general, she says: “Perseverance and grit.” Meanwhile, “You have to be able to turn plans on a dime on a daily basis.” Maartens says she thrives in that shifting environment. She especially enjoys creating quicker, simpler, more efficient solutions for employees. Three years ago, her problemsolving skills encountered an inhouse workout, however, when long-term employees “encouraged us to reinvent ourselves.” The owners tackled that challenge in the interim, investing (a significant amount they declined to share) in the company’s facility, technology and training. Some of the rebranding included a fresh logo, a revamped website and some major remodeling and expansion of the company’s now 45,000-sq.-ft. facility off U.S. 290. Intended as long-term revenue boosters, the changes are laying “a new foundation” for handling more clients, she says, while retaining the company’s hallmarks of “personal, quick, friendly service.” “We reinvented ourselves,” Maartens says, meaning the company’s image to the outside world and clients. Back-to-back school As part of the redo, Maartens has boosted her business management skills through the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program offered at Houston Community College. An enthusiastic, energetic colleague at the Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance insisted she go. Maarten’s says her biggest concern was whether she’d have time for the session, which met from August to December 2012. During its run, she continued to work full-time at Exhibit Network as well as pursue a degree in organizational leadership from the College of Biblical Studies. No one replaced Maartens at the office during the double dose of coursework. Her weeknights

and weekends were for making up what she missed at work. “There were some days I honestly didn’t think I would survive. But I remembered what my swim coach always said: ‘You can always swim one more lap’,” she says in an email recollection. The biggest message Maartens absorbed from Goldman Sachs’ program was its “mantra” to work on the business not in the business. In practice, that means Maartens will be looking at the bigger picture for her company once she hires a clone to handle the duties she currently handles. Maartens says she found the program’s instruction module on mapping competition a particularly useful tool in assessing business practices (and whether or not they were successful). Marketing and negotiations were other topics that resonated; Houston’s bustling economy is bringing the her company more business but also more competitors, she says. Business background When the Maartens founded Exhibit Network in 1989, it was with “perhaps more passion and integrity than knowledge about running a business,” her email says. Early on, however, the small

business earned a Houston 100 award in 1993 and 1994 from the University of Houston Small Business Development Center, Southwestern Bell and the Greater Houston Partnership. The company’s employment base previously peaked at 25 people, when Enron was a client. Enron’s fall in 2001, however, meant scaling back exhibit house staff to about eight employees -- and a “more efﬁcient and resourceful” business approach. “It’s still about building an exhibit, shipping it, making sure it looks good each time it’s used, and anticipating things that could go wrong,” she says, adding that you have to “love” that kind of work environment -- or get a job somewhere else. Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is a $500 million national program designed to help small businesses in the U.S. create jobs and economic growth by providing entrepreneurs with a practical business education, access to capital and business support services. Applications are due on the 15th of every month. For information, visit http://sites.hccs. edu/10ksb/.

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Kim Padgett

Padgett Group moves to Heights The Padgett Group, a strategic marketing and public relations consulting firm that focuses on helping organizations penetrate targeted markets and attain high visibility in these markets, has Heights Office moved the company office from 2222 North Durham the Galleria area to the Heights Houston, TX 77008 near 20th and Beall Street. The Padgett Group was founded 281.517.8760 in 2001 by Kim Padgett after a successful career in communications with leading firms in Houston. In Scott Lester - Bank Office President 2011, she was named the Public ReMargaret Vandever - Senior Vice President lations Society of America/HousAmy Ritter, Banking Officer/Lender ton PR Professional of the Year. The Padgett Group has consistently grown year to year and proBusiness Loans Made Simple. vides clients in the technology, energy, financial services, non-profit, retail, food and beverage, and speWhen Business Is On The Line cial event industries. As a boutique �� firm, The Padgett Group employs several professionals full time. www.allegiancebanktexas.com For more, call 713-588-4130 or visit www.thepadgettgroup.com.

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Kathleen Maartens co-founded the Exhibit Network with her husband, Lenny, nearly a quarter-century ago. (Submitted photo)

Silly Sombrero sponsors sought

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610 T.C. Jester

Sponsors are being sought for the ﬁrst Silly Sombrero community fun run in Oak Forest, complete with mariachis and food trucks, on Sept. 14. There will be 5K and 1K distances mapped out, with security provided, with the 5K launching at 8 a.m. from the Oak Forest Chill, 3542 Oak Forest Drive. The children’s 1K run will start at 8:45 a.m. Online registration is available at www.eztoregister.com, and anyone interested in helping to sponsor the event should contact Lucy Fraga Cain at 281-685-9929.

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