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Saturday, September 12, 2015 • Vol. 60 • No. 45

Public safety, infrastructure hot topics in City Council District C race By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

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Roads and safety appear to be focal points in this year’s race for the District C seat on Houston City Council. Incumbent Ellen Cohen will be facing competition in an already crowded field of candidates for various positions in this year’s elections, running against candidates Carl Jarvis and Michael McDonald. McDonald, an Iraq War veteran and precinct chair in Precinct 663, believes Cohen’s current approach towards crime and other issues facing the north side of the district around The Leader area, in particular communities and businesses around Antoine Drive, appears to be “out of touch.” One of

Cohen

McDonald

McDonald’s focuses will be vying for better funding and tools for local law enforcement. “I was talking with some of our area detectives and apparently there is a growing trend of harassment,” McDonald said. “Harassment is a small

Jarvis

step away from becoming an assault and battery or worse, and the problem is we really don’t have a department to handle that. It gets assigned to detectives in homicide but with the way crime is in the city, it’s easy to guess which cases they’ll handle with the

‘Thumbs up’ for headaches?

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INSIDE.

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com Thomas Val lives close to Stevens Elementary and has noticed a change in the afternoon pickup atmosphere over the past two to three years as the car lines have gotten longer and the patience of those who want to bypass the school zone have gotten shorter. “I’ve seen people driving on the wrong side of the road and even driving down the sidewalk,” said Val, who notes that the pick-up line often extends back to 43rd Street which is technically out of the school zone. “I saw a brand new Mercedes doing it. It really got me. Males and females both, it doesn’t matter. Everybody’s doing it.” And then there are the less dangerous, but still prohibited behaviors, like blocking driveways and streets perpendicular to Rosslyn so that buses can’t go in or go out. “The first week I saw a lot of arguments,” said Val, who called HPD about the unsafe driving behaviors he witnessed. “They came an hour after everything died down so there was nothing to do. It has gotten a little better since [the first week].”

The Scarborough Spartans had much to celebrate last weekend as the high school’s varsity football program finally broke its winless drought with a victory over KIPP Sunnyside, Sept. 4, by a score of 18-14. The win ends the football program’s losing streak since 2009.

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INSIDE.

Hitting the right notes with Learn Local Learn Local helped raise $10,000 worth of new instruments and repairs for Hogg Middle School’s Razorback Band.

Find it on 6B

The INDEX. Church

6A

Classifieds

4B

Coupons

5A

Food/Drink/Art Obituaries

7A 4A

Opinion

3A

Public Information Puzzles Sports

2A 4A 7B

See Election, P. 4A

School zone safety at local schools has many parents on alert

Scarborough breaks its streak

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most necessity.” McDonald also said that the area’s infrastructure is “falling apart,” and although there is much work being done around areas like Holcombe Boulevard and Westheimer, the northern side of the district isn’t receiving the same attention. He would like to take an approach which he argues would be better balanced for all areas of the city, inside and outside of the district. “The ReBuild Houston program has been pretty good but the problem is a lot of money is being spent on the west side of the city versus the east side,” McDonald said. “It’s not in our district but we should still care as we need equally good infrastructure to be able

See School Zones, P. 8A Photos by Betsy Denson Anne Letzerich and her dog Grits investigate the hole in her yard. Residents have been left looking for answers on their own after work on the Oak Forest Stormwater Drainage Project came to a screeching halt in recent weeks, leaving open holes, blocked fire hydrants and other issues Oak Forest residents say create safety issues for their community.

Safety concerns arise as drainage project comes to a halt

Residents don blue to support law enforcement

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

Carol Obenhaus has been a student of the ReBuild Houston Oak Forest Storm Water Drainage Improvement project from the beginning. Now, she as well as other area residents are just waiting out the end – despite the fact that they say specific details of just when that will be have been hard to come by from the city. As The Leader reported earlier this summer, the project consists of the removal and replacement of inlets from West 43rd Street to Bethlehem Street and from Rosslyn Road to Oak Forest Drive. According to a statement from the Public Works and Engineering Department, the contractor for this project is P2MG, LLC. An August date was given for completion. However, residents say the work has now stopped and the holes that had been dug were covered with metal plates, boards or marked off with barrels and caution tape. Concrete pipes were left on the side of the road near the intersection of Bethlehem and Rosslyn. Area residents say calls to 3-1-1 didn’t yield satisfactory answers about exactly why the work had stopped or when it would begin again. “I have talked to many neighbors who are upset by this and want to see the project completed,” said Obenhaus. “They are frustrated that we have not gotten results going through the usual channels.” Resident Anne Letzerich said that the crew was very friendly but that they “just disappeared” about a month ago. Obenhaus remembers that the bulldozers first showed up the Friday before the Memorial Day floods and ripped out the old drains at the end of Viking and Rosslyn. “The crews showed up for a while and appeared to have put in the new drainage pipes but about a month ago all work stopped,” she said. “We are left with deep gaping holes on both sides of Rosslyn at Viking and the concrete work that was done is incomplete so that we now have an apparently permanent and unintentional speed bump at several streets along Rosslyn between 43rd and Bethlehem.”

To further add to the confusion, Obenhaus and her neighbors got a door flyer about the project stating that sidewalks were going to be added to her street in the near future. “I contacted all the people on the flyer and was finally assured, the flyers had been delivered to the wrong neighborhood and the project was the drainage improvements along Rosslyn from 43rd to Bethlehem,” Obenhaus said. Besides safety concerns about the holes, Obenhaus notes that several fire hydrants are not accessible and where the existing sidewalk was replaced – at Latexo and Rosslyn – it doesn’t appear to meet ADA standards. And as for the project providing better drainage, she is hoping for the best. “If the dip between the concrete and asphalt at the end of Latexo is fixed, I don’t know if there will be enough clearance for the water to drain,” she said. While one of Obenhaus’ neighbors said he was told the project would be wrapped up by Sept. 15, a project foreman now tells The Leader that it will be about three months be-

There is a mixture of mourning and appreciation among the blue ribbons that line homes, light poles, trees and other parts of neighborhoods across The Leader area. Like many other Houston communities, local residents have been displaying blue ribbons in their yards as part of the Blue Lives Matter movement, following the shooting of Harris County Sheriff Deputy Darren Goforth last week. Residents driving down Wakefield Drive may have noticed several blocks in particular where trees and light poles promintently feature the blue ribbons, Rosen courtesy of Evelyn Yurgensen and Elizabeth Villarreal along with many neighbors who were willing to hang the ribbons on their property. The move represents a large movement across The Leader area, in conjunction with other movements across the nation, to acknowledge their support for local law enforcement. Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen said officers are on alert as investigators still haven’t determined exactly what led Shannon

See Drainage, P. 8A

See Blue, P. 2A

It’s been a month since workers were on Rosslyn but the project foreman says the work will resume next week, weather permitting.

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The public. Saturday, September 12, 2015 • Page 2A

AUG. 28

SHEPHERD Theft 2:42 AM 100-199 YALE Assault 12:25 PM 3300-3399 PINEMONT Burglary 8:12 PM 2800-2899 N SHEPHERD Theft 4 PM 3000-3099 WHITE OAK Assault 9:43 AM 1000-1099 PATTERSON Theft 5 PM 300-399 W 21ST Theft 5:21 AM 2000-2099 STUDEWOOD Burglary 8 AM 400-499 E 31ST Burglary 5:07 AM 8000-8099 N MAIN Theft 6 PM 3000-3099 WHITE OAK Burglary 3:20 AM 500-599 HEIDRICH Theft 12 PM 1200-1299 W 43RD Assault 12:28 AM 1700-1799 BINGHAM Robbery 7:24 AM 800-899 NORTHWEST MALL Theft 2:29 PM 600-699 W 19TH

Theft 4 AM 400-499 W 38TH Theft 1:30 AM 400-499 W 38TH Theft 5:10 AM 100-199 W 20TH Theft 8 AM 900-999 N LOOP W

AUG. 29

Theft 8:30 PM 4700-4799 NETT Assault 4:28 PM 2000-2099 YALE Theft 7:10 AM 2600-2699 ELLA Theft 7:28 AM 200-299 T C JESTER Theft 3:30 PM 2100-2199 JUDIWAY Theft 11:20 PM 5600-5699 YALE

AUG. 30

Burglary 11:48 PM 300-399 W 19TH Theft 11:55 AM 700-799 E 18TH Burglary 3:59 AM 2800-2899 N SHEPHERD Theft 12:10 PM 800-899 HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 4 PM 900-999 DURHAM Theft 12:55 AM 500-599 W 38TH Assault 12:18 AM 800-899 E 36TH Theft 9:16 AM 2100-2199 SHEARN Theft 1 AM 700-799 E CROSSTIMBERS Theft 3:05 AM 3000-3099 N DURHAM Theft 8:44 AM 4400-4499 SHEPHERD Theft 5:29 PM 1700-1799 W 22ND

SEPT. 1

Theft 9:18 AM 100-199 W 20TH Theft 4:42 AM 500-599 W 27TH Robbery 6:08 PM 700-799 W 16TH Theft 3 PM 1100-1199 W 10TH Theft 6 PM 6200-6299 KURY Theft 5 PM 800-899 W TEMPLE Theft 9:46 PM 2000-2099 W 18TH Theft 6:53 AM 2500-2599 CENTER Burglary 1:30 PM 1800-1899 W 43RD Theft 8 AM 2100-2199 SHEARN Theft 6 AM 2700-2799 MANGUM Theft 11:30 AM 1700-1799 E T C JESTER Assault 9:18 AM 300-399

AUG. 31

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Oak Forest resident urges caution after two attempted burglaries burglars were unsuccesful. “The garage door ended up being a bit crooked because all they did was pull it up a little bit,� Quintero said. The second incident occurred Aug. 21, when burglars attempted to enter the back door of the home by breaking the glass on the back door. Quintero said her home has burglar bars placed on windows all around her home; however the two burglars knew to come to her back door. A neighbor across the street

By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com An Oak Forest resident is urging others to remain vigilant in their homes after two burglars attempted to break into her home on Bethel Boulevard twice in the span of just a few days. Jospehine Quintero said the burglars first struck Aug. 17 when they tried to enter the garage of her home. Fortunately, a slide lock had been placed on the door and the

SHEARN Theft 9 AM 200-299 S HEIGHTS Robbery 9:58 AM 5000-5099 YALE

SEPT. 3

Theft 4:45 PM 3400-3499 W 12TH Theft 6:30 AM 1900-1999 ASHLAND Theft 9:02 AM 500-599 W 19TH Theft 5:18 AM 2000-2099 PASKET Theft 5:20 AM 200-299 W 19TH Theft 9:34 AM 700-799 E 33RD Theft 5:15 PM 1900-1999 TABOR Theft 4:09 AM 500-599 CROSSTIMBERS Theft 8:30 AM 1400-1499 N LOOP W Theft 11:09 AM 1800-1899 SHEPHERD Theft 9:38 AM 900-999 CROSSTIMBERS Theft 2 PM 100-199 E CROSSTIMBERS Burglary 11 AM 6500-6599 RODRIGO Theft 11:41 AM 1300-1399 CHESHIRE Assault 1:54 PM 4200-4299 W 34TH

SEPT. 4

Theft 10:27 PM 500-599 E 8TH Burglary 2:53 PM 1100-1199 TABOR Assault 3:29 PM 1500-1599 N LOOP Theft 4:05 AM 1200-1299 SANDMAN Theft 3:56 AM 4800-4899 N SHEPHERD Robbery 12:02 PM 2500-2599 E T C JESTER Theft 11:39 AM 2800-2899

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also told police they had spotted two Hispanic men walking out of her back yard on the side of the house that same day before she discovered the back door’s window had been damaged. “I have lived there for 38 years and nothing like this has ever occurred,� Quintero said. “We ended up putting a metal door between the kitchen and the garage and fixed the back door but that’s all we have done so far. I just want people to be careful.�

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SEPT. 5

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J. Miles to allegedly unload an entire pistol on Goforth at a local gas station. “We’re finding out more and more that there seems to be a pattern of mental illness in the equation here,� Rosen said. “It’s too early to make a conclusion on what led him to do such a horrific thing, and this reminds all of us that we need to be vigilant and aware of our surroundings and to never get complacent with our jobs.� While Rosen did not know Goforth personally, he said he had learned about him from others within the Houston law enforcement community and called him a “tremendous public servant.� While he said there might be some negativity towards law enforcement the national news media has picked up on, he did not believe that people generally have ill will towards police. “I think most communities and most people that live here are thankful that we have people that are willing to protect them,� Rosen said. “I’d be ly-

ing if I said we don’t have bad apples. Every profession has people in it that should not be in it or are performing for the wrong reasons, and our job is to constantly evaluate what level of service and protection we’re providing the community and how we’re living up to that.� In the past week, Rosen said he had sent out an email to his deputies, reminding them to be vigilant and utilize their training to the best of their ability and always be on guard – something he said would likely be carried out every day anyway. “In terms of changing our protocol or how we operate, we expect them to perform in the way that they have always have and that’s to protect and serve our neighborhoods the best they can,� Rosen said. “Law enforcement also needs to continue making inroads and building more collaborative relationships with the public to foster a better atmosphere of understanding.�

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The Topics. Saturday, September 12, 2015 • Page 3A

Respect is not a limited resource by any stretch

T

he most painful discussions always seem to be the ones worth having the most, if the past few years have been any indication. This week, citizens from all walks of life came together to celebrate the integrity and dedication of local law enforcement following the horrific shooting of Harris County Sheriff Deputy Darren Goforth at a gas station. It was an incident that made national headlines, as did the subsequent outpouring of support from people of all ages across the city and the country. People in our own backyard here in The Leader area donned blue ribbons in support of our local officers, and many acts of kindness and other anecdotes have been shared across social media and with news networks all over the nation. It’s wonderful, but it appears once again something wonderful is being hijacked by people who would rather take “Blue Lives Matter” and turn it into some sort of response to the “Black Lives Movement,” which can end badly for everyone involved. No one is going to say showing appreciation for local law enforcement is a bad thing. As someone who has worked closely with cops day-in and and day-out, I’d be one

Jonathan Garris Editor

of the last people to say it. Just as no rational person will ever say what happened to deputy Goforth at that gas station was anything other than a horrendous crime. What bothers me is how so many people, whether here in our community, our city, or abroad, seem to feel that respect is a limited commodity. There is some strange belief in this country that solidarity is somehow a zero sum game. By pledging support to one movement which demands respect Source: KHOU and equality, you are inherently The Blue Lives Matter movement has united people in showing appreciation for demanding it be taken away from our local law enforcement, but it appears that certain groups have made moveone group or section of society. It’s ments needlessly confrontational. absolutely nonsense, and perhaps for justice for them and peace for message isn’t that Black Lives Matit speaks gravely of our culture’s their families. The argument for ter More, just that the lives of black “Us versus Them” approach to Black Lives Matter is that those Americans should matter enough discussions about some rather dark same cries for justice simply aren’t that the nation takes a long and truths of our society and our politi- heard when it comes to incardifficult look at foundational racism cal process at large. ceration rates and systemic racism in this country. We as a nation have always been aimed at black Americans throughSo why is it so hard for many shocked by the deaths of police out the criminal justice system people to understand that you can officers and have continually cried and other parts of society. Their support both lines of thought? For

2015 is a very good year for wine producers THE HILL COUNTRY – For years in late summer, peaches were the purchase of choice here. Tourists, headed to the shops in Fredericksburg to buy the latest instant antiques from China, would stop at these shacks along the road and buy bags of peaches, peach jams, peach pies and probably peach antiques from China. Today the peach parade is still here, but more and more there are official looking road signs announcing the presence of vineyards, wineries and big barn-like structures packed with – one guess -- wine. Yes, after many false starts, overcoming drought, storms, hide-bound Anglo settlers who thought alcohol was the devil’s drink and more than a decade of Prohibition, Texas wine is coming on strong here in the Booze Belt. How strong? According to the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association (yes, there is one), in 2013 the industry in Texas produced 1.3 million cases of wine, up from 944,000 in 2005, with a retail value of $134 million, an increase from $92 million in 2013. Those are huge increases for any industry. In that 8year period, the number of wineries jumped from 200 to 389. Remember, this was a time of the Great Recession, when many other industries were shrinking. But grapes, like marijuana, are an agricultural product, subject to the whims of nature. For instance, 2013 saw a late freeze, which badly hurt the vineyards. The number of grape growing acres deceased by 5 percent and vineyard revenue was down 18 percent. Grape growers have another problem: Unlike some crops and livestock, when there is a stretch of drought, floods or bugs, you can’t just move a vineyard to the next ZIP code or time zone. Vineyards are literally rooted here, good times and bad. But 2015 should be a good time. Grape growers across Central Texas say this year’s harvest will be one of the best in recent memory. So stock up on vintage 2015. It is not generally known, but viticulture in Texas is older than in California or Virginia, by almost a century. We can credit the Franciscan friars coming up from Mexico back in1682, who brought with them grapevines for a mission near El Paso. The area became known for its fine wines, not that there was much competition, but by the 20th Century the industry had petered out. The Anglo settlers who came along in the 1800s didn’t know much about wine and didn’t care. But the German pioneers did, and vineyards started appearing around Central Texas in small numbers. Most failed. It took a while for Hans to figure out he wasn’t in Old Braunfels anymore. In 1895, Texas had about 1,800 acres in vineyards that produced more than 1.5 million pounds of grapes and nearly 1,900 barrels of wine. Then the wine industry slowed down. From the 1920s through the 1960s grape production remained small, with a number of small vineyards ranging in size from one-half to 10 acres scattered around the state. From 1922 through 1946 production averaged about 1,800 tons annually, possibly because wine was not part of Texans’ culture. My parents never had wine with their dinners, although my father almost singlehandedly supported the bourbon industry. Restaurants didn’t push

Lynn Ashby Columnist

The reader. Don’t take swim lessons from someone who can’t swim

Dear Editor: Which goes to show you … EVERYONE has their flaws, and no one should judge others for theirs, regardless of religion. Even the most holy figures have their own skeletons in their closets. Do not judge, lest ye be judged. Discrimination against someone because they don’t conform to YOUR moral beliefs is wrong. I’m sure there are things that everyone does that violates someone else’s moral beliefs. If we all discriminated against people that violated our beliefs, there’d be a lot of hate in this world. C.J.

Top 0.1 percent make more than bottom 90 percent

wine, some had BYOB, and private clubs sprung up to sell booze to the hypocrites who kept voting dry. (I remember one time in Tyler, I joined a restaurant’s private club for $1.50, then could order the bar.) For some reason, in the 1960s Texas took to wine. Maybe my father got tired of Maker’s Mark. Today Texas is the nation’s Number 5 (some claim Number 4) wine producer, and Number 7 wine grape producer. Go into any liquor store and most likely you will see signs proclaiming wines from such exotic lands as Chile, South Africa, Australia -- and Texas. When the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has a wine judging event (“Billy Joe, do you prefer the Syrah or the Muscat Canelli? Both are wet.”) you know vino has arrived. If you want to help The University of Texas, and don’t we all, buy a case of Ste. Genevieve. In 1981 a vineyard with that brand name was established on UT land in Pecos County. By 1986 plantings there totaled 1,000 acres of fine grapes. The university entered into a lease agreement with a Texas-French consortium that built a large winery at the site. By 1992 it was the largest wine producer in the state, accounting for 67 percent of the 1.5 million gallons of Texas wine, and won 18 wine awards that year. The Longhorns are going to start selling booze at sporting events this term, so we can only hope it’s Ste. Genevieve. And Aggies, who can grow moss on a rolling stone, think they are the green thumbs of the Lone Star State? Now a true story on how Texas Saved French Wines: In the 1870s the European wine industry, and especially in France, were devastated by lice. More than 6 million acres of vineyards were destroyed in France, Germany, and other regions of Europe. The French, who knew about the viticulture work of Thomas Munson of Denison (vineyards are all over the state), asked for help. Munson and a Missouri colleague shipped carloads of phylloxera-resistant native rootstocks to France and other vineyard regions, and saved the crops. The grateful French heaped awards and medals on Munson. Back in the Hill Country, I see more signs directing visitors to more wineries. And here’s a good idea: you can take mini-bus wine tours so you don’t have to drive around the countryside with map in hand missing most of the scenery, and you can sample more without the DPS pulling you over. One last point: Texas wines generate money for us. State and local taxes from our wine industry reached $85 million in 2013, a 117 percent increase in eight years. So keep your money in Texas. Ashby is sipping at ashby2@comcast.net.

someone like me, who works with the police almost every day but who also grew up around at-risk kids from areas like Philadelphia, Camden and Trenton, I feel it’s my duty as a member of society to support people who work to keep our seats safe but also understand we have a long way to go towards becoming a “post-racial” society. There’s no reason why we can’t have discourse about how important it is to respect and support our local law enforcement but at the same time acknowledge that we place in their hands our well-being and our trust. Unsurprisingly, Jon Stewart put it best late last year “You can have great regard for law enforcement and still want them to be held to high standards.” It’s wonderful to see so many in our community donning blue ribbons and showing their support for the people who have worked tirelessly to ensure our neighborhoods remain as peaceful as possible – and so I can run along the White Oak Bayou and feel like my heart is going to explode safely – but I would caution only that we should not use any movement as a tool for confrontation. The only confrontation both movements should be urging is one with ourselves and our own predispositions.

Dear Editor: Just discovered you a few weeks ago. Finally - a

Voting straight ticket can get wrong person elected

Dear Editor: There’s a difference between voting Conservative and for the right candidate, and grabbing a ballot sheet and voting for everything that has an “R” next to it. It’s clearly thought provoking if it inspired commentary from you. C.J.

Gatlin’s opening date delayed

Dear Editor: Top 0.1 percent make more than bottom 90 percent – Today only the top 10 percent of Americans are seeing their wealth grow while the bottom 90 get less and less of the pie each year … Scott Walker owes between $15,000 and $150,000 in credit card and car loan debt. Concerned Reader

Phone-y advice for the phone etiquette impaired

reason not to throw The Leader directly into the recycle bin. Funnier and on the mark more than ever. Hope you’re around for a long time. R.K.

Dear Editor: I was so looking forward to Gatlin’s this weekend, darn it. Do you Leader folks know if it’s true that Parker brought someone from California to reform the Permitting Office, and ever since, it’s been a giant mess with overlapping mini-bureaucracies? I ask because people I know involved in that field claim as much. J.P. Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com

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Any erroneous statement which may appear in The Leader will be corrected when brought to the attention of the publisher. In the event of errors or ommissions in The Leader advertisements, the publisher does not hold himself liable for damages further than the amount received by him for such advertisements. The Leader’s distribution is independently audited by the Circulation Verification Council.

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Page 4A • Saturday, September 12, 2015

Reader in the market for little piggy

Dear Tabby, I’ve always wanted a potbellied pig for a pet. What do I need to know before I get one? Hog-wild in The Heights Dear Hog-wild, When folks are in the market for a pet, it’s only natural to gravitate toward dogs and cats. But, pot-bellied pigs (including mini and micro pigs)

can make fabulous indoor and outdoor pets as well. According to Philippa Sprake, a clinical professor at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine, “In addition to being highly intelligent and affectionate, pigs are social animals with their own personalities.” Before you start squealing about wanting a pig for a pet, first things first: It’s extremely important that you check with your local homeowner’s association, as well as your home’s zoning regulations to ensure that pigs may be kept on your property. While great indoor pets, (they can even be litterbox trained) they do need outdoor time and space as well. Pigs can be extremely noisy and moderately destructive--

due to their “rooting” instinct, which causes them to dig in the ground with their snout, searching for food and obtaining iron from the soil. Also, in warmer locales, such as here in Texas, pigs need fans and kiddie pools or shallow ponds to wallow in to cool off. They don’t call them pigs for nothing: According to Sprake, “The biggest problem veterinarians see in pet pigs usually comes from owners providing an inappropriate diet. Pigs are highly food motivated, so it’s important to make sure that their treats are low in calories (fresh fruit and veggies are best) in order to prevent obesity.” Pot-bellied pigs can live to be upwards to 20 years old, so good care and planning is im-

perative to their well-being. A quick internet search yielded a few Houston-area veterinary practices that treat potbellied pigs. Aside from an annual exam and vaccinations, a pot-bellied pig needs to be spayed or neutered, wormed several times a year and have their feet trimmed properly. Now that you know all the dirty facts about owning a pet pig, if you’re still interested, consider adopting first before you head directly to a breeder. Check out www.petfinder. com to find adoptable pet pigs in our area. Do you have a burning question for Tabby? If so, email her at deartabbyquestions@gmail. com

Pet of the week Meet Claire, a 4-5 year old Shih Tzu/Poodle mix. Claire loves most things about life: cuddling, relaxing, car rides and going on walks. While Claire does prefer the ladies (over the company of men) she’s open to accepting the right man into her life, if it feels right. To see if you’re the perfect match for Claire, contact K-9 Angels Rescue at www.K-9AngelsRescue. org or www.facebook.com/ k9angelsrescue.

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The Obituaries. Theresa Marie Bench, 75, born Feb. 11, 1940 in Bremond, Texas, died Sept. 6, after her brave fight with Alzheimer’s Disease. Bench retired from Sears after 15 years. She was devoted to her faith and very active with Christ The King Catholic Church. She is survived by her husband John “LB” of 52 years, children Kathleen Wong, Jennifer Cully and Brenda Myers, brothers Johnny, Bruno, Edmund and Ted Dziedzic, and five grandchildren. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. with the Rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Sept. 10, at Pat H. Foley Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass is scheduled at 10 a.m. Sept. 11, at Christ The King Catholic Church with the internment to follow at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Christ The King Catholic Church or The National Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org. Anita Flores, 95, born April 26, 1920, died Sept. 5. Emma Sanchez Galindo, 82, born Dec. 10, 1932, died Sept. 2. Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, Galindo spent more than 60 years of her life building and raising her family. She overcame every obstacle she faced, from losing her husband of 45 years to winning her battle against breast cancer. She is survived by her siblings Mary Gonzalez and Rudy Sanchez, children Tony Galindo, Raymond Galindo, Mary Belinda Love, Gilbert Galindo, and Roland Galindo, 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and a great-greatgrandson. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at http://giftfunds.stjude.org/emmagalindo. Cecilia A. Garcia, 58, born March 7, 1957, died Sept. 6. Velma G. Pecht, 92, born Dec. 30, 1922 in Mexia, Texas, died Sept. 4 in Deer Park. Pecht was employed by AT&T for more than 40 years. She is survived by her sister, Colleen Read, brothers Paul Smith and Max Smith, and by numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends. Charlene Pickens, 85, born Jan. 20, 1930, died Sept. 1. Pickens was a longtime resident of the Timbergrove area. She helped her husband of

59 years open Chemmark of Houston, Inc. in 1974, and continued to support the business for the duration of her life. She is survived by her daughters, Becky Pickens and Shannon Mayer, brothers Jim and Lou Jennings, two grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Nicolas Salinas-Pompa, 89, born Jan. 24, 1926, died Aug. 29. Rene’ Thomas Weaver, 57, born Dec. 9, 1957 in San Antonio, died Sept. 4. He was born to parents, Manuel Villabubio and Lucia Verastvegui, and raised by David W. and Lucy Weaver. Weaver was raised in San Antonio and graduated from John Jay High School in 1976. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and a Master’s Degree in Project Management. He was a proud member of the DIANA Foundation, a non-profit organization, EPHA, and the Four Seasons Social Club and previously a Miss Camp USA organization. He is survived by his husband, Ken, mother Lucy, father Manuel, sisters Kim, Janine, Honey and Brenda, brothers David, Michael, Mark, Kirk and Kenny. Visition will be from 5-8 p.m. Sept. 12. Funeral services will be at noon, Sept. 13, at Pat H. Foley Funeral Home. John L. Wisnoski, 87, born Aug. 25, 1928 in Brenham, Texas, died Aug. 31. He is survived by his son, Robert Wisnoski, sister Gertrude Keck,

and two grandchildren.

Hidden Diseases in Pets

Early Veterinarians practiced emergency or crisis medicine by treating animals only when they were sick or approaching death. As medicine advanced, we found that preventative medicine such as vaccines, parasite control and lifestyle adjustments, saved lives and money. Today, medicine has advanced and Hidden Disease Testing is now allowing us to detect, cure or slow progression of animal disease. This too saves money, but more importantly, it is another reason why pets are living longer than ever before. Some examples of hidden disease are infections, internal parasites, anemia, kidney, GI, heart, diabetes, and liver disease. Endocrine problems caused by thyroid, adrenal, and other gland dysfunctions are common hidden disease as pets get older. Hidden Diseases may be: 1. Silent and assymptomatic. 2. Unrecognized yet causing ongoing unnecessary discomfort. 3. Noticed by the behavioral changes when misery and/or illness starts. 4. The cause of untimely or sudden death Pets age faster than people and disease develops faster also. All body organs will degenerate or mutate over time (Some earlier than others). Hidden Disease Testing in healthy animals - is now cost effective and routinely includes:

• Advanced Parasite Testing • Blood Profiles • Urinalysis • & ECG’s and Blood Pressure • and more. Always call your Vet if you have any concerns or questions

Fairbanks animal CliniC w w w. fa i r ba n ks .v e t s u i t e .co m

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Election from P. 1A to attract companies to t he outlying areas of Houston and create jobs.” McDonald also claimed Cohen has not respected the will of her constituents in the past, pointing at the controversy surrounding the proposed light rail route near homeowners along Richmond Avenue. “The homeowners there were adamant they didn’t want it,” McDonald said. “She seems bent on going through with it anyway. When people are very adamant that they don’t want to be pushed out for a light rail that’s something you need to respect and that’s something she hasn’t done.” Raising school standards and promoting the arts is also something McDonald would like to accomplish, and providing better funding and equipment for teachers across all grade levels would also be a major focus. “We need to make sure we’re attracting families in all areas of our district,” McDonald said. Carl Jarvis, a sales executive with Siemens and former US naval officer, also comes from a background of civic leadership. He served as president of his local civic association and is familiar with the southern side of the district particularly where he lives in Montrose. He said he plans on making fiscal issues a cornerstone of his campaign. “It seems like a lot of people are trying to make this election about issues other than fiscal ones,” Jarvis said. “I think it’s the most important thing, whether you’re talking about city budget issues or pension obligations that are upside down right now, those are the things I really want to be focused on and help get the city back to a good financial foundation. Jarvis also said he believes infrastructure across the district needs more attention than it’s currently getting. “I’d really like to make sure the funds that were supposed to be invested in those kinds of repairs are being used properly,” Jarvis said. “One of the problems has been the diversion of those funds away from infrastructure funds and that goes along with a lot of the fiscal issues I want to concentrate on.” Jarvis also said he would advocate for protecting deed restrictions against encroachment and organizations which would undermine local property protections. “We have these townhomes

and other developments that move into neighborhoods and want to throw away the local deed restrictions when the reality is those restrictions are some of the only protections people have for their neighborhoods,” Jarvis said. Jarvis said his primary focus is on ensuring the city remains on firm financial footing. He points out that people have moved from across the nation to Houston for the promise of opportunity and said the incumbent administration and others in Houston’s city government believe the local economy is a “golden goose.” “We can to continue to raise taxes for this golden goose and keep throwing more and more regulations at businesses and people believe that it’s not going to have long-term consequences for businesses and the economy,” Jarvis said. “I want to be an advocate for our taxpayer’s pocket books as well as being a good steward of our city’s resources and ensure dedicated funds are used wisely.” Cohen pointed to her achievements with pushing for the clearance of over 6,000 rape kits when she first came into office, championing the creation of the Washington Avenue Parking Benefit District, and the estimated $600 million in Capital Improvement Project funds for the district which she says exceeds every other district in the city. “These funds include street construction, drainage projects and continuing efforts to modernize the infrastructure in our district,” Cohen said. “About 21 percent of the CIP budget goes to District C, and I had to fight off some other unhappy council members that wanted some of that money.” For those living in The Leader area, Cohen has also used district funds for local parks likke Wright Bembry and Little Thicket Park, and said that the involvement of over 70 active civic clubs in the district, more than other districts, is a testament to residents’ desire to be involved in ensuring their quality of life is maintained. She praised her own office staff as well, saying her office receives about 170 emails and 30 phone calls a day and closes out about 250 cases per month regarding issues across the district. One of the challenges with addressing infrastructure and public safety has been its age. “Our district has some of the oldest parts of the city in it,” Cohen said. “Some of the

greatest amount of residential development is also in our district so we also have a lot of trucks going over our roads as high-rises and townhouses continue going up and it’s putting a strain on our roads. Modernizing our infrastructure is a big piece of what we’re trying to put the CIP money towards.” Cohen also reiterated she is a strong advocate of the equal rights ordinance, also

headed to a ballot vote during elections. She called the issue around the bathrooms “bogus,” and highlighted her time serving as CEO of Houston Area Woman’s Center for 18 years. “It’s completely incongruous to think I would be involved with advocating for a bill that would ever endanger women and children,” Cohen says.

Local Word

Do you have something to share about our community send us an email news@theleadernews.com

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

SUDOKU

aCrOss

1. Islamic prayer leaders 6. Waterproof raincoat 9. Millisecond 13. Popular pie nut 14. A field of mowed grass 15. RCO organic group 16. Pomace brandy 17. The innermost parts 18. Gull suborder 19. Became more intense 21. Sound absorption unit 22. Rattling breaths 23. Indicates doctor 24. For instance 25. A doctrine or system 28. Foot (Latin) 29. Dirt shoulder 31. Horn sound 33. Mumbai film industry 37. Disturbance 39. Zedong or Tse-tung 40. Cibin River city 42. Kate’s sister Pippa 45. Twitches 46. Formal close (music) 47. A baglike structure 49. Lease 50. Typographical space 52. Pa’s partner

53. King mackerels 55. Ceremonial staffs 57. About money 60. Spoiled child 61. Infants 62. Semitic fertility god 64. __ Frank’s diary 65. Reimbursed 66. English pennies 67. 365 days 68. G. Gershwin’s brother 69. Stopping device

dOwn 1. Inches per minute (abbr.) 2. Medieval honey drink 3. Land area unit 4. One who carries #55 across 5. Tin 6. Adult female horses 7. Overwhelmed with wonder 8. Brain and spinal cord (abbr.) 9. Inept 10. One who replaces a striker 11. Any habitation at a high altitude 12. Hold fast to 14. Sad from being

alone 17. Slang for famous person 20. Soft infant food 21. Small mergansers 25. Big Blue 26. Appear to be 27. Greek verse intended to be sung 29. Next to 30. Flying Pegasus corp. 32. Records walking steps 34. Broad back muscle 35. Teased apart 36. Cut into small cubes 38. Icelandic poems 41. American time 43. City of Angels 44. Nostrils 48. Narrow canvas bed 50. Force into a bay 51. Sept. 1914 battle 53. Sergeant fish 54. Cavalry-sword 56. Town of Jesus’ 1st miracle 57. Picasso’s mistress Dora 58. Frog genus 59. Talk tiresomely 61. Characters in one inch of tape 63. Side sheltered from the wind 66. Lead

WORD SCRAMBLE

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Page 6A • Saturday, September 12, 2015

The calendar.

UPCOMING SEPTEMBER EVENTS M.D. Anderson Family YMCA The M.D. Anderson Family YMCA of Greater Houston, 705 Cavalcade, will be holding various activities in September including: Constable Child and Car Safety Workshop, 8 a.m. Sept. 19; CPR Class, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sept. 19 (registration closes Sept. 11; ZUMBAfest, 7 p.m. Sept. 25., free to the community; Fall Youth Sports, now registering until Sept. 20, for Volleyball for grades 3-8, and Soccer for grades PreK3-8. Games begin Sept. 26. Take advantage of the no join fee. Save up to $125 and enjoy the Wellness Center and member rates for programs, Sept. 25-28. Information: www. ymcahouston.org/md-anderson, 713-697-0648. HART MEETING Bethany United Methodist Church Houston Association of Retired Teachers (HART) will have thier first meeting of the 2015-16 year Sept. 11, at Bethany United Methodist Church, 3511 Linkwood Dr. Social time begins at 9:30 a.m. and the meeting begins at 10 a.m. Kevin Fechner from AMBA will present the program. All retired school personnel are invited to attend and join HART

and TRTA. Information: www. houstonarearetiredteachers.org. HEIGHTS GARDEN CLUB Butler Home Garden Tour The Butler Home Garden Tour will be at 10 a.m. Sept. 12, at 435 W. 18th St. The featured backyard was designed and transformed by Jeff Law of Kabloom Landscaping. Law will give a short talk about how to personalize garden space. The meeting is free and the community is welcome. Information: www.heightsgardenclub.com. OPEN HOUSE/GRAND OPENING Hunter Dance Center Hunter Dance Center, 747 N. Shepherd Dr., Ste. 100, will celebrate its grand opening with an open house from 1-5 p.m. Sept. 12. Free dance, yoga and family workshops, along with creative activities for little dancers including “Build Your Own Tutu,� face painting and jumpy castles -- as well as thrilling circus arts and aerial dance demonstrations, ensure an exciting day for all. Information: 832-930-6343, www. hunterdancecenter.com.

L.I.F.E. PROGRAMS Lone Star College-CyFair Attendees at Lone Star College-CyFair’s weekly programs this September will learn about women’s suffrage, health products in the pantry and Mediterranean vegetarian food. The Learning, Inspiration, Fellowship, and Enrichment (L.I.F.E.) programs are free and held Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m., in the library (Room 131 unless otherwise noted) at 9191 Barker Cypress. The classes are as follows: Sept. 16 - A Close-up View of Texas Woman Suffrage; Sept. 23 - Beauty and Health Concoctions in Your Home; and Sept. 30 - Fusion Fare That’s Good for You. Information: 281-290-3214, lonestar.edu.

AARP MONTHLY MEETING AARP Chapter 1265 The monthly meeting will be held at 10 a.m., Sept. 14, in

JOHN P. MCGOVERN, M.D.: A BIOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE The Heritage Society Tea Room Author Bryant Boutwell will dis-

From the Pews.

Family Movie Night at St. Stephen’s All are welcome to attend Family Movie Night Sept. 11, at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Admission is free. Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Bring pillows and blankets. Back to Church Sunday is Sept. 13. Come and connect with one of several new studies and classes, including Christian Faith 101, led by Pastor Kevin Otto, at 9:40 a.m. in Room 203. A fellowship lunch will be held following the 11 a.m. service. All in the community are welcome. St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. For information, call 713-686-8241 or visit www.stsumc.org.

Contemplative Prayer at Oaks Presbyterian Oaks Presbyterian Church, 1576 Chantilly Ln., will hold a course, created and published by Scripture Echo called Exploring Contemplative Prayer: A Nine Month Journey to the Quiet. The course will introduce the eight different prayer practices over the course of nine months. An introduction to the course will be from 8:3010 a.m. Sept. 12, along with discussion of future classes. Call 713-682-2556 for information. Sunday School Party at St. Mark’s St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 600 Pecore, is hosting a Back to School Party for

the community room at 1520 Candlelight Dr. The special guest is Jan Flewelling, Stroke Outreach Coordinator with the Houston Methodist Neurological Institute. The meeting is open to anyone 50 or older, and will be preceded by a meet-and-greet at 9:30 a.m. Information: 713-681-1133.

children and adults in the fellowship hall from 9:40-10:30 a.m. Sept. 13. There will be activities for children, snacks, and booths hosted by various church committees to explain different ministries including small groups, missions and social opportunities. Call 713-861-3104 or visit www.smumc.org for information. All Saints TALC begins Fall semester The All Saints Third Age Learning Center (TALC) senior program registration runs through Sept. 18. An AARP Driver Safety Course will be held Sept. 18. The course is presented by AARP instructor Danny Dinshaw. The fee for AARP members is $15 and $20 for nonmembers. All fees are payable to AARP and can be paid on the day of the class. Registration for the class can be made by calling 713-248-1277. The course is for insurance discount only. All Saints Catholic Community Third Age Learning Center is located at 215 E. 10th St. Men’s Club to hold spaghetti dinner at St. Ambrose The St. Ambrose Men’s Club will be holding their annual spaghetti dinner from 5-7 p.m. Sept. 25, in the school cafeteria. The cost is $9 per plate. Advanced tickets will be sold only and can be purchased from Men’s Club members,

and before and after Mass at 5 p.m. Sept. 19; and Sept. 20 at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon. For tickets, call 713-686-0449. St. Ambrose Catholic Church is located at 4213 Mangum. Call 713-686-3497 for information. St. Matthew’s UMC hosts ‘The Soda Shoppe’ Ray Covey as Elvis will make an appearance on Sept. 26, at “The Soda Shoppe,� from 5-7 p.m. There will be live Elvis music, hot dogs, Frito pie, floats, popcorn and fun and fellowship. The cost is $10 per person (kids 11 and under are free). St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church is located at 4300 N. Shepherd Dr. Call 713-6970671 or visit www.stmatthewsmethodist.org for information. Wellness Workshop at Garden Oaks C of C The community is welcome to the 2015 Wellness Workshop at Garden Oaks Church of Christ, 4926 N. Shepherd Dr., from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 10. Dr. Baxter D. Montgomery of Montgomery Heart and Wellness is featured, speaking on Food as Medicine. Lunch, featuring a food demonstration, is included in the $7 registration fee. Deadline to register is Oct. 1. To register, email www.gardenoakscofc.org. MANNA hosts Denim and Diamonds MANNA’s second annual barbecue and auction – Denim

cuss his new book, which chronicles the influential life of his long-time friend and colleague, Dr. John P. McGovern, whose holistic approach to medicine transcended traditional boundaries. The lecture will be from noon1 p.m. Sept. 17, at the Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby St. The cost is $5 for non-members and free for members. Guests may bring a lunch or purchase one for $10. Information: 713-655-1912, ext. 101, www.heritagesociety.org. INDIEPALOOZA CONFERENCE The Houston Writers Guild The Houston Writers Guild will be hosting its First Annual Indiepalooza conference, which will focus on self-publishing. The event will be at the Crowne Plaza Houston Galleria area, 7611 Katy Frwy., from 6 p.m. Sept. 25, and from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sept. 26. Visit the website for the schedule and to sign up. Information: www.houstonwritersguild. org.

and Diamonds is Oct. 10, at the Houston Liederkranz Hall. Two community icons, Gatlin’s BBQ and The Telstars, are teaming up for one fun-filled evening of dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. Ticket information and sponsorship opportunities can be found at https://mannadenimanddiamonds.eventbrite.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the MANNA Resale store located at 1806 W. 43rd St. Call 713-504-5486 or email pdornak@gmail.com for information.

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EARLY DETECTION OF ORAL CANCER Chase Baker, D.D.S.

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

Heights

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on good nutrition at the 2015 Wellness Workshop, from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 10, at Garden Oaks Church of Christ, 4926 N. Shepherd Dr. Workshops include “How to eat out successfully� and “Work your body.� The workshop is open to the community. The $7 registration fee includes lunch. Registration deadline is Oct. 1. Visit website to register. Information: www.gardenoakscofc.org.

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and Liberation. The mission of the event is to unify Independent Heights and Garden Oaks and surrounding areas. Food and Tshirts will be provided for the first 200 people, along with games and face painting for the children, free car wash, and door prizes. Information: 281-730-2178.

O

ne of the hazards that everyone has to be on the alert for is any sign of suspicious growths that could mean oral cancer. This is another reason why your dentist takes such care in examining your mouth when you go for a checkup. Oral cancer in its early stages can usually be treated successfully. Among the early signs is a red sore on the lips, gums or inside the mouth that doesn’t heal in two or three weeks. Another is a profusion of white scaly patches inside the mouth or on the lips. Any swelling or lumps in the mouth or on the neck, lip or tongue should also be viewed suspiciously. Other symptoms are numbness or pain in the mouth, or bleeding without any apparent cause. Many of these conditions won’t cause any pain at first, but your dentist is trained to spot them. If there’s any question about the cause, he’ll refer you to your family physician. The earlier suspicious signs are noted, the better the chances for cure. That’s another reason why regular dental checkups are important. Prepared as a public service to promote better dental health. From the ofďŹ ce of: Chase Baker, D.D.S., 3515 Ella Blvd., 713-682-4406.

MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

To Forgive and ForgeT

The old adage to ‘forgive and forget� is often much easier said than done. It seems that a part of us just won’t let us forget; and, if we can’t forget the wrong that was done to us, it may be nearly impossible to forgive. And although sometimes it just feels so good to hold onto that ‘righteous’ anger; we should ask ourselves, who we are actually harming by holding onto all of this negative energy. The person who slighted us, whether in reality or just in our imagination, may be blissfully unaware of the great wrong which they have committed. Meanwhile, we are stewing in anger, resentment, and all kinds of negativity. So, we should get over it. It may be wise to remember who lied to us or cheated us, if only to avoid repeating past mistakes, but this doesn’t require holding onto all of the attendant negative emotions. If we can’t let go of our anger, perhaps we should talk to the person we are angry with, after we have had a chance to calm down. But, we should do so with an eye towards resolving our differences rather than winning the fight or shaming our enemy. The sooner we let our anger go, the sooner we can move on to more productive pursuits.Therefore, putting away falsehood, let everyone speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.

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

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

it is the norhill Church of Christ.

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

www.noRHiLLCoC.oRG

Oaks Presbyterian Church New Beginnings Happen Here

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

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THE PEACEFUL MOM (It’s not a mirage!)

The Will: Ours, Theirs and God’s.

A weekly biblically-based teaching for moms in all seasons of raising children. Come be nurtured and discuss issues with moms who have the same age children as you! Led by Teresa Glenn (www.celebratethefamily.com)

WEDNESDAYS

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

September 16-November 11 • 9:30-11:30am CHURCH OF THE APOSTLES • 1111 W. 14th Street TO REGISTER: www.cotahouston.org Limited childcare available with registration Questions: 713-862-0200

Food, drink

ART

Saturday, September 12, 2015 • Page 7A

Art Valet

By Mitch Cohen

Arts Columnist

Thirsty Explorer

Heights artist chosen as official guest artist for 2015 Making A Mark program This Saturday afternoon, an unusual art patients during their treatment. The guest artcollaboration will be revealed at Texas Chil- ist guides and curates the project to produce dren’s Hospital. Heights artist Elaine Bradford worked alongside patients during their treatment to create feathers which Bradford combined to form the wings of large-scale birds. Bradford was chosen as the official guest artist for the 2015 Making A Mark program, now celebrating its 25th year. Bradford chose the theme, “Birds of a Feather.” More than 300 moving works of original art by patients at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers and their siblings will adorn the hospital’s auxiliary bridge for the 25th Annual Making A Mark Opening Exhibit Celebration. During the spring and summer, children in the waiting and infusion areas of the clinic collaborated with Bradford to create Contributed photo the individual feathers. Elaine working with patients at Texas Children’s Since 2001, The Periwinkle Foundation on the “Birds of a Feather” project. has collaborated with the Arts in Medicine Program at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center to bring unique opportuni- a final piece of art for display. Bradford joins ties for self-expression, empowerment and a distinguished group of past guest artists, indevelopment of coping skills to patients and cluding Ann Johnson, John Palmer, Kelly Gale their families, with professional artists and Amen, Bert Long and Reginald Adams. writers. Periwinkle’s Arts and Creative Writing See this year’s artist from 2-4 p.m., SaturProgram culminates each year in Making A day, Sept. 12, at the Texas Children’s Hospital Mark, an exhibition of art and creative writing - The Auxiliary Bridge on the 3rd Floor of the by children and teens touched by cancer and Clinical Care Center, 6701 Fannin St. 77030. blood disorders. The art exhibit will be up for public viewing As part of Making A Mark, The Periwinkle through October 9. Foundation invites a local artist to create a Bradford was one of the founding members collaborative project with the patients dur- of BOX 13 ArtSpace, an innovative artist-run ing their treatment. The guest artist guides studio and gallery space in Houston and was and curates the project to produce a final a resident artist at the Houston Center for piece of art for display. For the 2015 “Birds Contemporary Craft. In 2011, she completed of a Feather” project, Bradford will work with a permanent civic art commission for the City patients and siblings to make individual feath- of Houston at Vinson Neighborhood Library. ers, which will be combined to form the wings View more by Bradford on her website: of large-scale birds that Bradford will produce ElaineBradford.com. She is represented in with the help of The Periwinkle Foundation’s Houston by Art Palace Gallery. Long-Term Survivor Group. The menagerie of birds will be displayed Cohen is the founder and manager of First flying down the hallway of Texas Children’s Saturday Arts Market. Contact him at ArtVaHospital for the Grand Opening of the 25th let@gmail.com or visit him on the web at ArtAnniversary Making A Mark exhibit on Sept. Valet.com. 12. The Periwinkle Foundation invites a local artist to create a collaborative project with the

Contributed photo Art work from patients and siblings that is a collaborative project for this year’s Making A Mark exhibit at Texas Children’s Hospital.

Leader Nibbles

OF resident opens bakery in Woodland Heights By Christina Martinez christina@theleadernews.com

Gatlin’s Grand Opening The date is here and the rumors are true. Gatlin’s BBQ in Oak Forest is officially opening to the public, Friday, Sept. 11 at 3510 Ella Blvd. Last week, I reported that Gatlin’s would not be open in time for Labor day, but the barbecue joint did, in fact, have a soft opening.

Have a tip for Nibbles? Email christina@theleadernews.com

Photo by Christina Martinez April Burns and her infamous Stargazer Lily sugar flower.

Local 341 9/11 Memorial at Lucky’s This weekend marks a tragic event that is dear to many hearts. Our nation lost family members, friends, moms and dads, sisters and brothers and a lifetime of memories on Sept. 11, 2001. This Friday, Sept. 11, join your local firefighters to honor the 343 FDNY who were lost in 2001. Buy a local 341 glass and get free refills until 10 p.m. There will also be an appearance by HFD Pipes & Drums. Doors open at 7 p.m. at Lucky’s Heights, located at 2520 Houston Ave. 77009. Live music at EQ Heights If you’re looking for a cup of Joe and some live music, the Heights coffee shop, EQ Heights, will host country, new folk - Tommy Lewis at 6:30 p.m. Give him a listen at www.reverbnation.com/tommyclewis. EQ Heights is located at 1030 Heights Blvd. 77008. Tasteless at Ladybirds Laughs are going to be heard a mile away from Ladybird’s this week and the jokes will be tasteful. OK, so there probably will be some PG-13 jokes, but the comedy show is entitled Tasteless and will start at 9 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 10 at Ladybird’s bar. Once the show begins, bottles of wine are half off and there will be specialty drink specials. Here are this week’s performers: Chase Durousseau Zahid Dewji Bret Whitacre Julia Serrano Ladybirds is located at 5519 Allen St. 77007. Clicky Boots back at it again If you missed the local act last week, you have another chance to see the Houston act at Town In City Brewing this week at 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 10. The Clicky Boots call themselves a “trashy TX cabaret for down and outs and lonely hearts.” The best part of this news, Town In City has started their food collaboration with Tied House Kitchen. “Don’t worry about grabbing dinner beforehand,” Town In City’s Facebook post reads. “Our brand new menu from Tied House Kitchen is serving up all sorts of sandwiches, burgers and snacks to ensure that you don’t have to worry about a thing.” Town In City is located at 1125 West Calvacade 77009. Save a heart - Dograiser Project Rescue Ready and Texas Made Cornhole are teaming up to host the first fundraiser to benefit four local rescue dogs that need your support. The benefit is 12-3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12 at Cottonwood, to see all raffle/ auction items and come meet the pups - Jewels, Ellie, Lucky and Jensen! Raffle tickets can be bought in cash, the day of the event and range from $5 to 10. Cottonwood has 40 beers on tap and always has a drink special on the board. See what they have on tap before going on the TapHunter app. Cottonwood is located at 3422 N. Shepherd Dr. 77018.

Facebook photo Petrol Station’s custom 32 ounce, Aluminum Crowlers.

BEER NEWS

Bad news for beer lovers The beer world seems to evolve every day and I think that’s why I love it so much. New brew recipes, new brewers and breweries popping up around town, new techniques and the list goes on. Something new to the market and to the beer-to-go family – Crowlers. What is this, you ask? Well, it was a 32 ounce aluminum

transport container, just like a growler, but in a smaller, more manageable state; and recyclable. The Crowlers are so new, most think it’s a typo when reading about them and TABC has had a field day with trying to figure out what to do with them. Petrol Station is caught in the spotlight with these togo containers, as TABC just recently banned their, and everyone else’s across the state, Crowler machine. Moral of the story, you have 16 days, as of Thursday, Sept. 10, to get over to Petrol Station and learn about a Crowler and take Petrol Station’s finest home to enjoy. I’ll have more on this for you down the road. P.S. Petrol Station just added a new menu item to the lineup - French-Country mustard ragout with duck sausage. Oy! Cheers! Email Christina@theleadernews.com and follow on Twitter @ThirstyExplorer

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For 10 years, Oak Forest resident, April Burns, was in the Oil and Gas industry. After seeing the price of oil decline, Burns packed her corporate world bags and searched for something that incorporated her creative touch. Every year, Burns throws a big party for family, friends, co-workers and this party is where Burns shines her creative touch – in her food and cake designs. “I would do this for parties, even Christmas,” Burns said. “Even down to the vegetables. Food doesn’t have to be boring, it can take the shape of anything. Something beautiful.” While in college, Burns took a sculpting class and this class is where she found her niche for the fine detail you can see in her specialty sugar flowers and bakery treats at Sweet Sculpting, located at 3223 Houston Ave. 77007. The bakery will be home base for Burns to take appointments for her sugar flowers – be sure to check out her Stargazer Lilly – and fill orders. The bakery is currently open, with hours fluctuating, but the Grand Opening party is set from 12-4 p.m. on Sept. 19. Sweet Sculpting will be giving away a five tier cake, for any occasion, away during the grand opening at 2 p.m. To enter, share and tag Sweet Sculpting via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. There are

no limits on how many times you can submit a day. Check out their website at sweetsculpting.com

By Christina Martinez Managing Editor

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Page 8A • Saturday, September 12, 2015

School Zones from P. 1A Val isn’t the only one who is keeping an eye out. “Most drivers follow the rules of the road in school zones around our campus,” said Travis Elementary Principal Tom Day. “Unfortunately, there are too many incidents of motorists speeding or making illegal turns that put our students, families, and crossing guards at risk. The most effective deterrent is visible police presence and traffic law enforcement around the school. HISD Police and the Precinct One Constables have sent an extra patrol at various times and it really makes a difference.” Stevens Elementary Principal Jennifer Barrientez said that her school’s enrollment has jumped about 100 students in two years and that last year they secured another crossing guard at Saxon and Rosslyn to help buses get out – in addition to the guard at Lamonte and Rosslyn and

another at Donna Bell and Saxon where they have their walker gate. The number of crossing guards at any given school varies according to HISD Senior Media Relations Manager Holly Huffman. “It is dependent upon the number of walkers at each campus and from where they are walking,” she said. “We survey sites and count the pedestrian traffic to determine if there is a need.” Last year Stevens also had an officer from the HISD Police Department, described by Barrientez as “a blessing” who educated the parents about the arranged traffic flow. Barrientez has put in with HISD for a new officer to help out on Rosslyn this year and hopes the spot will soon be filled. John Cannon with the Houston Police Department said that their number one concern is to educate drivers,

which is why they always do a back to school news conference – often at Travis Elementary, not because it’s particularly unsafe but because it’s convenient to media. For enforcement, HPD takes its cues from HISD officials and parents who report incidents and deploy resources accordingly. Huffman said that anyone can report concerns to HISD Police at 713-892-7777. “Additional officers are then assigned to patrol the area in question,” said Huffman. “Officers rotate through areas where concerns — both new and ongoing — have been reported and actively monitor for speeders.” Reader Megan Salch said she gets frustrated when drivers speed through the carpool line around St. Rose School, which is also near Garden Oaks Montessori. “Why are you so angry and in such a rush?” she wonders. “I know

traffic stinks but the loss of one child is too high a price to pay.” Texting and talking on a cell phone in the car line was also mentioned by parents and principals as a big problem. In school zones, all drivers are prohibited from texting and using handheld devices while driving. There is no signage in school zones publicizing the ban in Houston, but other Texas cities, like Dallas, have erected them. If schools in this area continue to grow, Val thinks one possible solution is to extend the school zone boundary – and the blinking signs – so drivers get into the school zone mindset earlier. “The City of Houston installs and maintains the signage so it would probably be a process through Traffic and Transportation,” said Huffman. “That said, HISD Police is happy to provide assistance in reaching out to the city.”

six years it will result in a $2 billion investment in the city. With regard to project management, Costello says that by state law, the city is required to take the lowest qualified bidder – although for certain unique projects there’s a classification called ‘best value’, which takes into consideration construction price, qualifications, and time in which a job will be finished. Sometimes, Costello says, the city will hire an engineering firm for one component for a job and a different company for construction. For the Rosslyn job, only P2MG, LLC is named by Public Works and Engineering. According to P2MG’s website, the company “was established in 2003 in Maryland and relocated to Houston in 2006. The firm is 100% minorityowned and certified with the City of Houston and the State of Texas as a historically underutilized business (HUB), HMSDC, HISD, METRO, and The Port of Houston.” Costello said that residents with concerns have taken the appropriate first step by calling 3-1-1. He said the next step is

to reach out to the appropriate council person – in this case Ellen Cohen – and also include the five At-large members in the correspondence. “When there is more than one [council person] calling, there is sometimes a better response,” Costello said. A last resort is coming downtown to a public session. “I’ve seen a lot of people

come in and they’re frustrated but the council members get engaged and things really start to move.” Hopefully, it won’t come to that for Oak Forest residents who just want to see progress. “We appreciate the public’s patience,” said Julie Gilbert with Public Works. “It will be a much better street with much better drainage.”

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Drainage from P. 1A fore completion. Foreman Mark Nelson said that there was a 10-week delay in securing some of the needed materials because of the volume of construction in the city and a related scarcity of materials. “We’ll start back next week depending on the weather,” he said. Nelson noted that they are upgrading the pipes from 18 to 24 inches and are replacing more than 70 manholes. It was the tops of the manholes they were lacking. “We’re trying not to tear up the streets,” he said. “We’ll do it in sections.” Engineer, city council member and candidate for mayor Steve Costello is one of the architects of the ReBuild Houston program. He makes the distinction that ReBuild Houston is the funding mechanism, while the management of how a given project plays out is up to the city. Costello is still keen on ReBuild as a funding model in which new projects are paid for in cash on a pay-as-you-go model. He says that in the next

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