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By all measures, the Houston Heights Association will be doing their best to make history this year as the group works to establish the first “Green Corridor” in Houston. However, petition and ordinance requirements from the city might complicate the green initiative. Urban Forestry Committee member Jonathan Smulian said the community has fought for years to preserve the area. In the 1980s, over $90,000 was raised to fund Trees for Yale with the help of the Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce. Volunteers planted and nurtured approximately 500 trees on both sides of the street in the
area stretching from Interstate 10 to Loop 610. Now, Smulian said he and others in the area are hoping to establish a Green Corridor from around West 5th Street to West 24th Street. Originally starting from a small group of HHA members and gradually expanding, Smulian said he now has unanimous support from the association and has been working for about a month on the initiative. “About a month ago we sent out a packet to property owners along the stretch of Yale Street which explained to them why were doing this and what had happened in the past,” Smulian said. “It included a form which the owners could sign if they supSee Green P. 2A
Photo by Jonathan Garris The Houston Heights Association is facing the unknown when it comes to establishing a Green Corridor along Yale Street.
Trash Treasure
Reagan HS name change postponed
into
What’s all the ‘Raven’ about? The tall, lightly colored tower standing near the soon-to-be White Oak Music Hall is getting a second life in a somewhat unconventional way. Find out what’s happening at the Raven Tower in this week’s edition of Leader Listings.
By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com John H. Reagan High School will keep its name for the time being. At the HISD Board of Trustees meeting Jan. 14, a resolution to rename schools currently named after prominent Confederate leaders passed by a vote of 5-4; however HISD trustee Anna Eastman successfully passed an amendment removing both Jefferson Davis High School and John H. Reagan High School from the list of schools, citing the desire to meet with the community to continue open discussions about the potential change. Albert Johnston Middle School and Sidney Lanier Middle School were also removed from the list; however Richard Dowling Middle School, Henry Grady Middle School, Lee High School and Thomas Jackson Middle School remained as part of the resolution.
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INSIDE.
See Reagan P. 6A
Bitten by the STEM bug Stevens Elementary will become a STEM magnet school next year, joining Harvard and Sinclair Elementary schools in The Leader area. Find out what this means for the school and also how it is responding to an edict for improvement from the Texas Education Agency.
Find it on 8A
Photos by Betsy Denson Where it’s sign letters, skeletons or license plates, Kiki Neumann provides a home for it all.
Local relics get new life on property of N. Shepherd artist
INSIDE.
By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com
Living History Are you a World War II veteran or know someone who is? The local American Legion Post would love to document the memories and events that shaped your experiences.
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Houston folk artist Kiki Neumann didn’t coin the idiom ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’ but she might as well have. Neumann, who lives on two acres off of North Shepherd near Pinemont, has a thing for license plates, and sign letters, and signs and really anything that is found material, cast off by others who no longer see a use for it. She remembers the start of her passion for sign letters well. “I had sold a piece of art and had the money in my pocket,” she said. “I was driving home behind a truck with sign letters in the back and followed it to the scrap yard. I bought them off the truck.” Now the sign companies bring their old letters to Neumann, who in turn sells some of them at the Round Top market to recoup costs and then gives the rest away. She’s given letters to the City of Houston’s Green Building Resource Center, which is part of the permitting office, and also recently to the new Smither Park, located down the street from the Orange Show in southeast Houston. Neumann plans another gift to the city’s Reuse Warehouse on North Main. When she acquires something, Neumann says there’s no immediate purpose for it other than enjoyment. Such is the
case with her most recent acquisition, the metal sign from the Busy Bee Furniture store on N. Shepherd. For years, she’d driven past the Busy Bee Furniture store and “coveted” the handmade sign. When Neumann saw that the store was going out of business she made her move. The sign was easily acquired, but not so easily moved to the ground for transport. Neumann had to hire a crane. “None of it matters when obsession comes into play,” she said. The sign now sits on her property, appropriately enough near the six apiaries maintained by bee keeper Shelley Rice. Neumann might turn the sign into a table. She might even See Treasure P. 6A
Photo by Kim Hogstrom Benjamin Sackett stands proud as he officially receives his title of Eagle Scout.
Scout with rare heart condition becomes Eagle By Kim Hogstrom For The Leader On the evening of Jan. 16, about 50 people from Garden Oaks and Oak Forest gathered at St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church on W. 43rd St. to recognize an exceptional teen as he assumed the title of “Eagle Scout,” with the Boy Scouts of America, Michael Benjamin Sackett. Michael, who is 17, has earned a remarkable 57 scouting merit badges, exceeding the 21 required by 36. On the path to Eagle Scout, he has also earned many friends. While that in itself is admirable, it is made all the more so by the fact that young Sackett was born with only two of the four chambers comprising a normal, healthy human heart. See Scout P. 6A
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Burglary 10:09 PM 1500-1599 W 18TH Theft 12 PM 3000-3099 N LOOP W Theft 1:49 PM 4400-4499 SHEPHERD Theft 2 PM 10800-10899 NORTHWEST FWY Robbery 5:07 PM 5100-5199 YALE Theft 11:30 AM 2200-2299 WASHINGTON
JAN. 9
Theft 4:45 PM 900-999 WAKEFIELD Theft 2 PM 100-199 HARVARD Burglary 8 AM 1000-1099 CHESHIRE Burglary 5:42 PM 1400-1499 WRIGHTWOOD Robbery 5:14 PM 4300-4399 W 34TH Theft 3 PM 2700-2799 SHEPHERD Burglary 12:59 PM 1400-1499 SHEPHERD Theft 9 PM 4200-4299 SCOTLAND Theft 9 PM 6400-6499 N MAIN Theft 5 PM 4400-4499 N SHEPHERD Burglary 1:30 AM 700-799 E CROSSTIMBERS
JAN. 10
Theft 9:05 PM 200-299 W 31ST Theft 4 PM 800-899 W 41ST Theft 1:21 PM 3000-3099 ELLA
Theft 4:38 AM 100-199 YALE Theft 12 PM 3900-3999 WASHINGTON Theft 3 PM 4800-4899 WASHINGTON Theft 10 PM 2500-2599 WASHINGTON Theft 11:01 AM 5100-5199 N SHEPHERD Theft 9 AM 5400-5499 CLIFT HAVEN Theft 3:17 PM 9900-9999 NORTHWEST FWY Theft 3:46 PM 200-299 17TH Theft 1:30 PM 4900-4999 CENTER
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Burglary 10:33 AM 600-699 E 25TH
Theft 5:15 AM 700-799 RALFALLEN Theft 7:30 AM 200-299 HEIGHTS BLVD Burglary 12:59 AM 4500-4599 N SHEPHERD Burglary 1:31 AM 100-199 YALE Burglary 2:29 AM 4600-4699 N SHEPHERD Theft 3:10 AM 2800-2899 N MAIN Theft 3 AM 6400-6499 ARNOT Theft 3:30 PM 6200-6299 N MAIN Robbery 7:15 PM 3800-3899 ELLA Burglary 10:46 PM 2700-2799 W 18TH Theft 9:15 PM 200-299 W 20TH Theft 3:49 AM 800-899 HARVARD Theft 7 AM 9600-9699 HEMPSTEAD
JAN. 12
Theft 5 AM 200-299 20TH Theft 1:55 PM 300-399 W 19TH Assault 1 AM 800-899 E 23RD Theft 9:18 AM 900-999 N LOOP W Burglary 9:25 AM 700-799 E 40TH Theft 2:20 PM 3200-3299 WHITE OAK Theft 11:30 AM 2800-2899 WHITE OAK Robbery 4:55 PM 3500-3599 BAYOU DR Theft 6:53 AM 400-499 W COTTAGE Theft 1 AM 5300-5399 INKER
Theft 3:30 PM 0-99 HEIGHTS Theft 1:23 AM 4000-4099 WASHINGTON Theft 12:23 AM 3600-3699 WILLIA Theft 3:22 PM 1300-1399 W 43RD Burglary 2 AM 2700-2799 W 18TH Burglary 8:15 PM 1500-1599 W 25TH Burglary 5:16 AM 4400-4499 SANTEE Theft 9:17 AM 1700-1799 DURHAM Theft 12 PM 3400-3499 ELLA Burglary 11:34 PM 5100-5199 WASHINGTON Theft 5:45 AM 4200-4299 MANGUM Theft 1:30 PM 600-699 W 28TH Theft 3:07 PM 800-899 OXFORD Theft 1:30 PM 1100-1199 HIGHLAND Theft 4:30 PM 6500-6599 WASHINGTON Theft 11:30 AM 1500-1599 CHANTILLY
JAN. 13
Theft 8:17 AM 1000-1099 E 28TH Theft 1:41 PM 2200-2299 ELLA Theft 4 PM 100-199 HARVARD Theft 11:42 PM 2500-2599 N LOOP W Theft 10:27 AM 200-299 W 20TH Theft 2:43 AM 400-499 CORTLANDT Burglary 4:08 AM 200-299 T C JESTER
Theft 4:02 AM 100-199 E CROSSTIMBERS Theft 5:29 AM 3800-3899 MANGUM Theft 9:04 AM 1000-1099 ENID Theft 1:07 PM 400-499 HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 5:20 AM 1800-1899 W
For his volunteerism and giving back to the Greater Houston area, Memorial Assistance Ministries volunteer Bob Arroyave was named one of ten finalists for the Houston Texans Community Quarterback Award. He was recognized on December 13, 2015, at NRG Stadium in a ceremony held prior to the game between the Houston Texans and New England Patriots. The annual award is a partnership between the Houston Texans, BHP Billiton and the United Way of Greater Houston. In addition to recognizing Bob’s volunteerism, MAM received a $5,000 gift. MAM, a non-profit organization providing emergency assistance and educational programs designed to put families back on their feet, nominated Bob Arroyave for his time and work with their Employment Services Program. In their application,
MAM specifically noted how Bob offered his expertise to help build the Employment Certification Program, which is officially recognized by Houston Community College, and developed MAM’s Resume Workshop curriculum. He also helps train Job Coaches to develop consistent materials and messaging, allowing all volunteers to work with clients to build presentable resumes reflecting the information needed by an employer to offer an interview. Bob retired as a Partner and member of the Board of Directors of Brown & Gay Engineers. A structural engineer, Bob’s first passion was building bridges, but as he rose through his career, his passion shifted to building the careers of others. When he retired, his company noted that Bob “has been a mentor to many, working quietly behind the scenes to ensure the success and recognition of others.� Bob has used
his experience to coach and mentor clients, staff and volunteers at MAM. “After I retired, I realized that I had a lot of work-acquired talents, especially in the area of reviewing resumes, conducting interviews and mentoring new employees,� said Bob. “[My wife] Susan was volunteering at MAM and told me about their Employment Services Program. It seemed like a good match for me, and I began volunteering at MAM as a Job Coach. Later I added workshop presenter to my duties as well. I think about the clients who told me that what they learned is valuable and see they are taking steps in the right direction to have a better life.� He concluded, “When a client comes in to tell me they got a job offer, I feel like a million bucks. (Laughing) Or, in keeping with the Community Quarterback Award, let’s say five thousand bucks!� For more information
“First, the corridor may only be located on a major thoroughfare and must be at least one mile long. Second, the ordinance requires a petition showing support of 75 percent of the property owners in the proposed corridor excluding single family properties and the petition process must be completed in 90 days. The time limit may be problematic if there are many absentee land owners along the corridor and may meet with resistance from property owners who don’t want it.� If enough signatures are collected, the petition must be filed with the city no later than
the fifteenth day after the last date of any property owner’s signature on the petition, according to city documents. If it is disapproved by city council, Smulian and others will have to wait three years before they can submit an application of the same or substantially same green corridor again. Smulian and others remain confident. “We really believe our trees are an enormous asset and give shade and character to the neighborhood,� Smulian said. “We feel we’ve lost an awful lot of trees to developments on very large homes built on small sites.�
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Green from P. 1A However, getting support from property owners might not be the biggest hurdle as Smulian said that so far the initiative has had no negative reaction. Jennifer Ostlind, deputy assistant director in the city’s Development Services Division, said that this would indeed be the first of its kind in the city. The corridor might actually be redundant in some respect. “Since most trees in the right of way are already protected by the city’s tree and shrub ordinance, the need to create a corridor may not be as pressing,� Ostlind said. “The ordinance requires that commercial property owners mitigate the removal of any trees from the building set back that are 20 caliper inches or more.� Creating a corridor also comes with its own other challenges. “Establishing a green corridor is difficult,� Ostlind said.
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The Topics. Saturday, January 23, 2016 • Page 3A
We may be dying, but we’re getting rich too If you’re old enough to remember, there was a time when families sat down to dinner and, somewhere between your last bite of green beans and your first bite of meatloaf, that corded weapon hanging on the wall started to ring. There was no such thing as Caller ID back then, and you had no idea if it was Grandma or some goon from Greenville on the other end of the line pitching a steam cleaner that could miraculously suck germs off a soap bar. I miss those days of dinner interruptions. I miss when our only annoyance came from a broke college kid calling to inform mom that her son had been named to the Who’s Who of Brilliant Booger Biters. For one night only, mom could buy a hard-cover album with my name on Page 393 for the low, low price of $39.95. The reason I miss those days? Email. And by email, what I obviously mean are the 77 emails I received (on my work account) in one day from people and businesses that believe I have some very serious medical problems. It all started with a company that proudly proclaimed its prod-
Jonathan McElvy Publisher
uct offered the best heart attack warning system in America. When I didn’t click on that piece of spam, I promptly received a second email from the same Russian warehouse offering a product that could quickly heal me from my recent heart attack. The only medical reason I’d have to fear a heart attack would be from utter paranoia brought on by the next dump of emails. Apparently, I need a new drug that will defeat diabetes. I received four emails reminding me that I should immediately start taking an inventive new probiotic because there’s a chance I’m grossly overweight. I received another two emails from the Mayo clinic telling me they had found a cure for hearing loss. Worst of all, I was offered a product that will fix all
my sagging skin, which seems odd considering I haven’t even had time to lose all that weight. That’s OK, I quickly received another email that I could buy a product and have skin that looks just like Jennifer Lopez’s, which would be great if I were, you know, a woman. In the sort of humor you can’t make up, the next email came from a company informing me they are legally allowed to sell cannabis pills in all 50 states of the Union, which is about the only pill I’d buy if I had heart disease, obesity, diabetes, no hearing and sagging skin. Besides the obvious medical crisis I face, not all companies think I’m in such bad shape. I had email offers from four different vendors, all notifying me that they would immediately deposit money into my account. A couple were lowball offers - one is sending me $562; another $961. The other two were more my speed. If I’ll hand over my bank account information, I can have checks for $15,000 and $250,000 deposited tomorrow. That’s the reason I didn’t even buy a PowerBall lottery ticket last week. Combine all those deposits and I’ll pull in a cool $266,523 just
Houston, we’ve got a problem The Bayou City came through 2015 relatively unscathed. Yes, there was the downturn in fracking, $30-something-a-barrel oil which sent its own shock waves through the town, and the defeat of HERO, generating criticism from all corners of the nation, including scathing jokes from late night TV comedians. Now let’s look at the year that has finally left us, so that we may recover. Nearly 100 city-owned vehicles were damaged or destroyed in the massive Memorial Day flooding that swept through the area, including police squad cars, ambulances and ladder trucks. Of those, 16 vehicles, including city-owned Priuses, were flooded when a City Hall annex parking garage worker did not deploy a flood gate that would have kept out waters. During that period, Houston was drenched with up to 11 inches of water in what turned out to be a very wet year. Maybe the drought is over. Quote of the Year (Humble Pie Dept.) “I outsmart people all the time.” – Tilman Fertitta In a New York Times article on hacking of the Astros computers by the St. Louis Cardinals, we have the Humbling Headline of the Year: “Why Hack into the Houston Astros of All Teams?” While in sports, Craig Biggio became the first player to go into the Baseball Hall of Fame as an Astro. Fifty-two more and we’ll catch up with the New York Yankees. Rockets general manager Daryl Morey, on a plane flight, answered some questions from his followers. One fan asked if working in basketball had killed his love for the sport. Morey’s response: “No, it is like being a gynecologist, you don’t get sick of it.” Morey later apologized. Speaking of Twitters, Chad Shanks, the Rockets digital communications manager, posted a tweet to celebrate the end of the first-round playoff series with the Dallas Mavericks, featuring a pistol pointed at a horse’s head, a reference to the Mavericks’ mascot, along with the message: “Shhhhh. Just close your eyes. It will all be over soon.” The Rockets removed the message and apologized – then fired Shanks. How ‘bout them Coogs! Quote of the Year (I’m Outta Here Dept.): “This was a campaign of fearmongering and deliberate lies.” -- Houston Mayor Annise Parker after the defeat of the Equal Rights Ordinance, or HERO, by a two-to-one margin. In other news of tolerance, two Houston mosques were burned during the year in what the fire department arson experts judged “suspicious.” On the other hand, we did elect a black mayor, who promises a chicken in every pothole. 10 Yards Penalty for Lack
Lynn Ashby Columnist
of Class: In front of HBO cameras and millions of Americans, Texans coach Bill O’Brien unleashed every obscene word in the English language, time and again. While on the matter of class, the Class of 2015 got a startle. Graduating HISD students, their friends and family, were changed $12 a car to park at NRG Stadium for the ceremonies. M.D. Anderson Cancer Center regained the Number1 designation for cancer care in the U.S., according to News & World Report’s annual rankings of hospitals. This top spot came a year after a drop to Number 2 ended seven straight years atop the list. M.D. Anderson has ranked first 11 times in the past 14 years. The Houston hospital moved back ahead of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, its New York City rival in rankings. The two have fought for the top spot since the survey’s inception in 1990. A New Meaning to Stakeout: It’s been a tough year for Waller County Sheriff R. Glenn Smith. He has already been under the spotlight since Sandra Bland hung herself in his jail after a controversial traffic stop last July. In November, he was having lunch at a Saltgrass Steakhouse in the Katy area when thieves broke into his marked vehicle in the parking lot, and made off with his official sheriff ’s jacket and an arsenal of weapons, including a submachine gun. “I’ve not enjoyed having it spread over all God’s creation that the sheriff lost his guns,” Smith acknowledged. While in Katy, let’s salute the Katy High School Tigers, not only for their football team’s 16-0 record and the State Class 6A Division II championship -- their eighth -- but they were named by MaxPreps Xcellent 25 as the best high school football team in the nation. There may be better football teams, but they play on Sunday afternoons. If you’re not rich, you’re not trying: A new study released by Bankrate.com lists the Houston metro area as the best in the nation for building wealth. Passing the Bar (Which Was Always Open): Joe Jamail died at the age of 90. The only time I met Joe was at a luncheon honoring him and his wife for making yet another generous donation to his alma mater, The University of Texas-Austin. (They gave millions). The school named part of the Law Library and a swimming pool for them. Joe leaned over and whispered to me, “They (blank) it up
again. I never went to the Law Library and I can’t swim.” He was given to hyperbole. Joe served in the U.S. Marines in the Pacific during World War II, and if there were two things the Marines learned, it was how to shoot and how to swim. Notice what did NOT happen. The Astros didn’t finish in last place, as they have in recent seasons. The Texans did not go to the Super Bowl – what a humiliating playoff game, and did you notice that, despite the annual doomsayers’ predictions, we did not have a hurricane. Shoot Out on Aisle 4: H-E-B will not allow visible handguns in its stores. TSU is another story. On Oct. 8 two students were shot on the campus, leading authorities to evacuate a student housing complex and cancel classes. It was the third shooting at TSU that week. Now we’re on to 2016 with the first fusillade of open-carry gunslingers. Let the shooting being! Ashby is terrified at ashby2@comcast.net.
tomorrow. And that doesn’t even count the seven straight days of $50 dollars at Kohl’s and another $100 in free Macy’s dollars. Now we’re up to $266,973, and if the PowerBall winners took home a combined $500 million after taxes, I can have just as much as them in 5.13 years. The problem I have with spam email isn’t that businesses are out there trying to make a buck. According to one (very small) piece of research on this topic, I found most companies can earn about $10 off of every 1,000 emails they send. So if they send 100,000 emails, they earn $1,000, and if these jokers send out 1 million emails, that’s an easy 10 Grand. Without getting into too much detail, these virtual mail warehouses send out millions upon millions of emails each day, based on lists they’ve either purchased or stolen from the web, and it’s an enormous business. No, my problem is that the braniacs in Washington D.C. aren’t smart enough to figure out a way to put a halt to the invasiveness. In 2003, bureaucrats basically legalized spam email in something called the CAN-SPAM act. Once again, you can’t make up this irony:
CAN-SPAM stands for “Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing.” Without too much legal mumbojumbo, here’s what the act says: You have to allow people to unsubscribe to your emails and your subject line can’t be misleading. In our business, they call it “truth in advertising,” and email spammers are “required” to offer us a little truth, which means I’m on the brink of death, even though I’m getting a quarter million bucks tomorrow. I love technology. I even love email. Call me an old-timer, but I kind of miss the days when companies couldn’t intrude on our lives at every single turn. Now, if you’ll excuse me, Netflix just sent me an email because I might like a recently added show called “Dawn of the Croods.” No lie, here’s the summary: “The world’s first family is back for more laughs as they discover sports, sleepovers and other wonders in a world of exotic creatures.” Sports and sleepovers with exotic creatures, huh? Sounds like an entirely different category of spam emails I get ever so often. Email jonathan@theleadernews.com
The reader. Italian university called Ayatollah U?
Dear Editor: Not making a direct comparison but it is an interesting parallel that after WWII there have been no Heinrich Himmler High’s, Hermann Goering Memorial Hospitals, Josef Goebbels Expressways or Adolf Hitler Schools of Veterinary Medicine. In Japan there are no Hideki Tojo Highways, Admiral Yamamoto Marinas, or Admiral Nagumo Memorial Hospitals. These governments conducted armed conflicts seeking to destroy all who opposed their unjust causes. Being in favor of the expansion/perpetuation of slavery is an unjust cause that the previous two parties were very much in favor of. The fact is the Confederate States of America, who favored slavery lost a war to the United States of America and thereby surrendered their right to exist. To name a hospital the Jefferson Davis Memorial Hospital long after the conflict was over seems unnecessary as does flying a confederate flag in a country that defeated said sovereign nation. Let’s quantify long after it was over, the day after the surrender. The simple fact is that the school never should have been named John H. Reagan in the first place. There is good news for us Italians though, in Iran there is going to be an Italian university called Ayatollah U. Piero Scarlatti
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Context, compromise important in Reagan name change controversy
Dear Editor: I could not disagree with you more. First off, history is not a possession that can be owned, and it is debatable which group the pro-change or no-change, was trying to own history. History is a collection of facts, both good and bad, fortunate or unfortunate to be considered within context of that time, not our own, and hopefully to teach us something. We really have no right to be offended by it, just to learn from it. If, as you say “a name is just that - a name,” then keeping it is no worse than changing it. In point of fact keeping it is actually better than changing it, because we will not have wasted thousands upon thousands of tax-dollars, studying the issue, discussing the issue and changing signs and files. So if “a name is just that - a name,” then common sense, as well as fiduciary responsibility, ought to guide our school board to take the less expensive course of action. This perpetual focus, by the Left and most Millennials, on feelings rather than facts seems a poor preparation for our students’ future. Worse, when emotions rule, as seems to be the case here, then objective thinking flies out the window. Finally, fifth paragraph
- “More importantly, the history of those African Americans who were enslaved for so many years and on whose backs the economy of the Confederacy was built.” is not actually a sentence. Katie McDonald Dear Editor: Let’s also rename the Martin Luther King Jr. Early Childhood Center. King was a noted plagiarist, not only plagiarizing much of his work at Boston University in his Doctoral studies, but he seemed to either plagiarize or credit as his own writing speeches written by others. There is no place in an educational environment to celebrate a plagiarist, liar and cheat. He also had multiple affairs/one night stands once he became famous. He seemed to view women as sex objects only to be used to fill his desires. Serial adultery should not be celebrated, especially by someone who is supposedly a “Reverend.” In addition, his files are sealed until the year 2027, who knows what other negative information will be revealed when that information is public knowledge. I am sure we can find some other school names honoring cheats, drunks and the like if we go through the whole roster. It is a fun game to some, I guess. Anthony
the leader Puzzlers. Answers found in this week’s Classified section
SUDOKU
aCrOss
1. LA team member 6. Young Fr. woman (abbr.) 10. Per __, each 11. Foots 13. Veggie toy 17. Overdose 18. US, Latin America, Canada belong to 19. So. Am. plain (Span.) 20. Point midway between N and NE 21. Single 22. Inactive 23. Mother of Hermes 24. Gives a new meaning 28. Silent players 29. One who adds Cluny trim 30. Men or boys 31. God of War 32. Self-immolation by fire ritual 33. Inevitable events 35. Add piquancy 36. Skin lesions 37. Cannabis 41. River of NE Turkey 42. 2 family struggle 43. A young swine
44. __ student, learns healing 45. 55300 MN 46. Opie actor Howard 47. World’s oldest news gathering organization (abbr.) 48. Luke’s Jedi mentor 52. Japan’s knife & scissor city 54. Medical antiseptic & dye 55. Early female flyers 56. Loses heat
dOwn
1. No longer practicing 2. Military mailbox 3. Cowboy Carson 4. 7th Greek letter 5. Nautical ladder rungs 6. Hmong 7. Fellow 8. Maltese pound 9. Coal blacks 10. Japan Airlines bird 12. Different concepts 13. Secure a ship with ropes 14. Elder 15. Belongs to famous computer 16. Point midway
between NE and E 20. Moniker 23. Environment 25. Fills with joy 26. Transportation charges 27. Frosts 28. Counterpart 30. 2nd largest Hawaiian island 32. Grimly humorous 33. A dog’s front foot 34. Mures River city 35. Steam bath 36. South African Music Awards 37. Sound made by a cat 38. Clothing protectors 39. Wife of Amphion 40. God of fire (Hindu) 42. Favorite weekday (abbr.) 45. Japanese sashes 48. Klutz 49. “__ Koo,” Debbie Harry debut album 50. Tokyo 51. Hardly any 53. Cathode
WORD SCRAMBLE
Page 4A • Saturday, January 23, 2016
New owners are ready to run, but is it safe for puppy? along on your runs seems like a logical way to spend time with your pup and fit in your runs. Well, hold your horses a bit: Vets agree that dogs shouldn’t go jogging until their growth plates have closed.
Ready to run in Garden Oaks Dear Ready to Run, Congratulations on your new addition! I’m sure, with all of that manic puppy-energy in your home, you’re eager to find ways to help your puppy exercise. Since you’re both runners, taking the puppy
Neighbors: BBQs and more By Elizabeth Villarreal elizasgarden@outlook.com
Lima Catholic Church at 3600 Brinkman @ Wakefield. The Scouts will be serving chicken, brisket and sausage from Saturday, Feb. 6th from noon to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 7th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You may dine in or take out! Dinner tickets are $10 and can be purchased from any member of Troop 40 or at the door. Also available at St. Rose will be the Scouts’ famous scrumdillyumptious buttered potatoes and seasoned green beans. For more information, please contact Jim Bentley at 713-825-0081. The 22nd Annual Garden Oaks Montessori Pancake Breakfast and Silent Auction will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6th from 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m. This community event is anticipated each year by the community and all of the many friends of Garden Oaks. GOMM PTO loves bringing the community together for free pancakes made by dads, kids’ activities, entertainment and guided tours of the Montessori classrooms on the beautiful campus. The silent auction is not to be missed! 901 Sue Barnett in Garden Oaks.
Do you have a question for Tabby? If so, email her at dear tabbyquestions@gmail.com
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Charles Allen, a 2012 graduate of Waltrip High School, earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and was graduated Magna Cum Laude with Honors on Dec. 11th from Sam Houston State University. A surprise dinner party at Texas Land & Cattle thrown by his very proud parents Pastor Charles Allen Jr. and Sybil Allen, included family, new friends from SHSU, and old friends from Waltrip. Charles plans to pursue a career in law enforcement after devoting a year to missionary work. Congratulations, Charles! Kevin and Debby Hobart would like to wish their grandson a belated Happy 2nd Birthday. Vivaan Gummi turned 2 on Jan. 7th while he and his parents Karthik and Jennifer Hobart Gummi were visiting in India. Vivaan celebrated with his Houston family this past weekend with a train-themed party and a ride on the train at Hermann Park. Happy, happy birthday to Richard Weirich. Happy birthday to Cindy Atkinson Medina who celebrated her birthday with family and friends on Jan. 21st. Cheers! Happy, happy birthday to Susan Barnes of Oak Forest. “Mom, thank you for always lightning the way. We are so blessed to have such a strong and loving example for a mother. On this day, we hope that you feel the love of all who adore you. A warm welcome home to Christine and Jeremy Hunt of Oak Forest. They have moved into their beautiful new swankienda and their neighbors are absolutely thrilled to have them back on the block. Frank Black Middle School is hosting its annual career day on Friday, Mar. 11th and is looking for volunteers to share information with students. FBMS would like to showcase a wide range of career op-
tions including skilled trades, the arts, professions and unusual choices. There will be a lunch reception for speakers at noon and presentations are scheduled from 1 to 3:25 p.m. with the speakers presenting to different groups for approximately 20 minutes per session. Community members interested in volunteering can sign up using a link on the school’s website at www. FrankBlackMiddleSchool. org. The deadline to sign-up is February 28. The Oaks Dads Club BBQ Cookoff is coming up the weekend of Jan. 29th and 30th. The Cooking Team Party is set for Friday, Jan. 29th starting at 7 p.m., and this is open to the public with live music from Honeyboy Nelson. On Saturday, BBQ plates from Gatlin’s BBQ will be on sale along with live music, face painting and games for the kids. $10 BBQ plates; $3 admission (admission free with purchase of BBQ plate). For presale tickets, contact Sean Jez at 713-305-4481 or Shawn Salyers at 713-444-4454. Troop 40’s Annual Boy Scout BBQ will be held Feb. 6th and 7th at St. Rose of
states that puppies should have 5 minutes of organized exercise per day for every month of his age. So a 8 week old puppy should be getting 10 minutes a day. Organized exercises are activities that you control, such as brief walks and training sessions. With a little creativity, you should be able to come up with fun ways to exercise your pup and slowly incorporate running into your plans.
B
Dear Tabby, We just got a puppy and we’re both runners. We’d love to take our new addition along with us on our runs. Is this advisable?
Dogs grow a lot in their first year, especially large breeds. Their bones and joints are remodeling as they continue to grow. (Certain breeds like Shih Tzus, Corgis, and Basset Hounds are predisposed to premature growth plate closure.) To accommodate the growth of your growing puppy the cartilage and bones are soft and contain many extra blood vessels. Since the growth plates are softer than other parts of the bones they’re more prone to injury. Trauma to a puppy’s growth
plate can lead to severe bone deformities. Being dropped, hit by a car, or vigorous activity injuries in puppies should be diagnosed and treated quickly. The age at which the growth plates completely mature is different depending on the breed. Most of your dog’s growth will happen between 4 and 8 months of age. Large and giant breeds mature much slower--they might not be fully developed until 18 months of age. But, it’s best to check with your veterinarian to find out when your puppy has reached maturity. An x ray can be performed if you want to know for sure that their growth plates have closed As for alternative ways to exercise your puppy, many breeders suggest a “five minute rule.” The five minute rule
THE LEADER Readers' Choice
Saturday, January 23, 2016 • Page 5A
The calendar.
MARDI GRAS MADNESS Frank Black Middle School Mardi Gras Madness is on Friday, January 22, 2016 at 7pm at the SPJST Lodge #88 at 1435 Beall Street, Houston, TX 77008. Last year the FBMS auction raised $30,000, which provided the students with iPads and outdoor learning spaces, including covered patio tables. They’d like to continue efforts this year to upgrade technology and update the physical environment, including locker repair and auditorium upgrades. Visit http://fbmspto.org/auction/ for info on attending. MONTHLY FISH FRY American Legion Post 560 The Ladies Auxiliary Unit 560, 3720 Alba Road, will host their monthly Fish Fry and live entertainment on Friday, Jan. 22, from 6 p.m. until sold out. The cost is $8 per plate. Information: 713-682-9287, www.facebook. com/AmLegionPost560/, americanlegionpost560.org. RAINBOW ON ICE Discovery Green Rainbow will return to The ICE at Discovery Green from 7-10 p.m. Jan. 22, for a chilly winter party with electrifying entertainment. This year’s event will be emceed by 95.7’s Sarah Pepper. This event is free and family-friendly. Information: www. discoverygreen.com/rainbow.
MONTHLY HAPPY HOUR HYPO This month’s event will be hosted at Luke’s Icehouse Houston, 903 Durham Dr. The event will be from 5-8 p.m. Jan. 28. Admission is free for members, early-bird for non-members is $10 by Jan. 22, $15 until Jan. 28 at noon, and $20 at the door. Information: heightschamber. com, 713-861-6735.
leading economists about the economic outlook for Houston, the state, the nation and the world. Dr. Gilmer will discuss business, employment, interest rates, energy and real estate. The luncheon will be at the Sheraton Brookhollow Hotel, 3000 N. Loop West, from 11:30-1:30 p.m. Jan. 28. Networking begins at 11 a.m. Information: 713-861-6735, www.heightschamber.com.
by a meet-and-greet at 9:30 a.m. Information: 713-681-1133.
ANNIVERSARY PARTY Animal Justice League Come celebrate the one year anniversary from 6-9 p.m. Jan 30, at The Corkscrew, 1308 W. 20th St. Please RSVP for headcount. Information: www.facebook.com/ events/1511613259133913/
60TH BARBECUE COOKOFF Oaks Dads Club Oaks Dads Club will host their 60th barbecue cookoff to raise funds for the club. There will be competition in two new catagories, Drink and Breakfast as well as the other popular categories. Barbecue plates will be sold for $10 (plates include three meats and sides). Gates will open Friday, Jan. 29 and stay open until 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30. There will be live music, activities for the kids, vendors and tons of great food and fun. Admission is $3 for adults, kids 15 and under get in free. Information: 713-444-4454, 713-302-7565.
WINE, DINNER FUNDRAISING EVENT Lupus Foundation of America Join the Lupus Foundation of America - Texas Gulf Coast Chapter and Chef Antoine Ware, Lupus survivor, for an exclusive Wine Dinner fundraising event from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 3. The event will be at Harold’s, 350 W. 19th St. The six course dinner with wine is $125 (includes tax and gratuity). Information: 713-360-6204.
A SALUTE TO SCHOLARSHIP Houston Assembly of Delphian Chapters The Houston Assembly of Delphian Chapters has announced the 2016 fundraiser, A Salute to Scholarship, Jan. 30, at the Junior League of Houston. The event benefits the Delphian Scholarship Foundation Fund which provides scholarships to students at the University of Houston. Information: www.delphianhouston.org, 713-773-4380. ECONOMIC FORECAST LUNCHEON Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce Hear from one of the nation’s
AARP MONTHLY MEETING AARP Chapter 1265 The monthly meeting will be held at 10 a.m., Feb. 1, in the community room at 1520 Candlelight Dr. Special guest will be Jerry Kovaly of Habitat for Humanity. The meeting is open to anyone 50 or older, and will be preceded
J.C. HOWARD ART RECEPTION Harold’s in the Heights A Fine Art Exhibit of Soft Pastel Works by Julie Clark Howard hosted by Harold’s in the Heights will be at 5 p.m. Feb. 2. Harold’s in the Heights is located at 350 W. 19th St. Information: 713-3606204.
family DentiStry State-of-the art procedures, instruments & techniques
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Routine Male Cat Neuters
49
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New Well Puppy & Kitten Exam
IDOL OF THE HEIGHTS Greater Heights Chamber of Commerce The Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce is calling all vocalists and music lovers alike to be contestants in the 7th annual “Idol of the Heights� competition. Contestants must be 16 years of age and need to be registered by Feb. 5. Pre-registration is $30 for all music genres. Information: 713-861-6735, www.heightschamber.com.
FREE Dog Rabies Vaccination
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Movie study, discussion at Hope Episcopal Hope Episcopal Church, 1613 W. 43rd St., has a sixweek series on Wednesday nights. The movie, “War Room: Prayer is a Powerful Weapon� will be shown with the following five weeks devoted to discussion of the material. All are welcome to attend dinner at 6 p.m. followed by Christian formation. Hope Episcopal Church is located at 1613 W. 43rd St. Call 713-681-6422 or visit
www.hope-episcopal.org information.
for
Covenant Bible Study for women at St. Stephen’s Women of all ages are welcome to attend the Covenant Bible Study Tuesdays from 9:30-11 a.m. in Room 201. The eight-week study encourages participants to seek a deeper understanding of the Covenant between God and God’s people. The nursery is available for preschool age children by reservation. RSVP to the office. The Solitaires, a support and fellowship group for widows and widowers, has a new meeting time at 11:30 a.m., the last Friday of the month. The cost is $7 for a catered lunch. RSVP to Barbara Johnson at 713-686-6116. St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. For information, call 713-686-8241 or visit www.stsumc.org and the church’s Facebook page. All Saints Third Age Learning Center to hold spring registration All Saints Third Age Learning Center, 215 E. 10th St., offers a program, open to seniors 50-plus in the community. The 2016 Spring Semester registration will be held Jan. 28, in the church parish hall, from 9 a.m.1 p.m. Classes begin Feb. 8.
A full course hot lunch is available at noon MondayFriday during the semester for $2. For TALC program information or lunch reservations, call 713-248-1277. Zion Lutheran hosting chili supper Zion Lutheran’s Men in Mission are hosting their annual chili supper from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 3, in Zion’s Great Room. This is an annual fund-raising event for the Seminary Scholarship Program. The meal will be a free will offering and there will also be quarts to go for $10. The community is welcome. Zion Lutheran is located at 3606 Beauchamp. Call 713869-1493 for information. Chocoholic Games Party, Silent Auction at St. Rose The St. Rose of Lima Altar Guild will be holding their Chocoholic Games Party and Silent Auction from 7-10 p.m. Feb. 5. The event will be held in the St. Rose West Hall. Donation is $10 per person (includes light dinner). Tickets may be purchased at the church office or online at www.stroselima.org/ parish/fundraising-events. Tickets may be picked up at Will Call on day of event. For reservations, call 713898-6566 or email louise.brat-
ChurCh Oaks Presbyterian Church New Beginnings Happen Here
Sunday Worship - 10:30am
Bible Study: 1st & 3rd Wednesday Noon - 1:30pm Bible Study: 2nd & 4th Tuesday 7:00 - 8:30pm Senior Adult Game Days: 2nd & 4th Tues 9:30-1:00pm includes lunch
(713) 682-2556 1576 Chantilly @ Piney Woods www.oaks p r e s b y t e r i a n . o r g
Reverend John Cain, Pastor
Member of MANNA
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 5:00pm 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
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Guide Oaks Christian ChurCh (Disciples of Christ)
1216 Bethlehem at Ella Blvd. (713) 688-7761
Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship10:45 AM
Pastor Don Joseph Member of MANNA Visit us on FaceBook www.oakscchouston.org
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4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227
www.gethsemanelutheran.org
ton@yahoo.com. Please make sure to receive a confirmation of reservation. St. Rose of Lima Catholic Community is located at 3600 Brinkman.
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GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH
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Call About Cat Vaccines
From the Pews. Older Adults Konnecting Socially game day at Oaks Presbyterian Oaks Presbyterian Church, 1576 Chantilly, welcomes the 50+ community to Older Adults Konnecting Socially from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 26. Complimentary lunch will be served at 12:15 p.m. Come meet friends and enjoy good friendly conversation, games, including bridge, dominos, Scrabble, Rummikub, SkipBo, Yahtzee and more. Older Adults Konnecting Socially meets every second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Evening adult Bible study is open to the community every second and fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m. The group will be studying Mark Batterson’s new study entitled If. Call 713-682-2556 for information.
713-682-7939
CARE
cReDiT
D
oes thumb-sucking or pacifier use lead to crooked teeth? If the habit is prolonged past the age of two, this can lead to alterations in oral development which cause misshapen mouths and displaced teeth. Thumb sucking past the eruption of the first permanent teeth can cause an anterior open bite, where there is flaring of the anterior teeth. In this case the back teeth close together, while the front teeth show an open gap from the thumb obstruction. The effect on the bony support of the teeth is one of the largest concerns, as well as abnormal, deforming muscle activity. The habit can alter the child’s swallowing pattern furthering the protrusion of the upper front teeth, a narrowing of the upper dental arch, and an obvious malocclusion of the teeth. As long as there are infants, there will be thumb suckers and pacifiers. However, if the habit continues longer than usual, it’s best to have the child checked by a dentist before it causes any problems. Prepared as a public service to promote better dental health. From the office of: Chase Baker, D.D.S., 3515 Ella Blvd., 713-682-4406.
MESSAGE OF THE WEEK
APPRoAching hAPPineSS
W
e all want to be happy, and there is nothing wrong with that, as long as our pursuit of happiness doesn’t trample on the happiness of others. Such a misguided approach to happiness, where your happiness depends on others being miserable is sure to fail anyway. The best approach to happiness is one that comes from a meaningful, well-lived life where our goals complement each other and where the person doesn’t spend too much time thinking about their own happiness. Someone whose social and spiritual goals involve serving God and their fellow humans should have career goals which complement their social and spiritual goals. Careers in healthcare, teaching, and any kind of service work could easily fit into this overarching goal of serving people. A life with more pleasures than pains is also important to our happiness, but don’t worry too much about your own happiness; people who are overly concerned for their own happiness are less likely to be happy than those who spend their time trying to make others happy. As John Stuart Mill, the British philosopher put it: “Ask yourself if you are happy and you cease to be so.� Mill advised us to approach happiness sideways, like a crab, i.e., by pursuing other things which have happiness as a byproduct. And finally, trust in God and your fellow man; trusting in God is a source of comfort and trusting your fellow man tends to bring out the best in others. Ad # 22283
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
1822 W. 18th
Sunday - Bible Study For All Ages .. 9:30am Morning Worship............ 10:45am Age Graded Zones ...........6:15pm Wed. Prayer Meeting & Missions Organization .....................6:15pm Dr. John W. Neesley - Senior Pastor
713-864-1470
Candlelight Church of Christ Join us for Services in English or Spanish
A House of Hope and Prayer in the Heart of Houston Rev. Elizabeth Grasham
Sunday Worship 10am & 5pm Sunday Bible Classes 9am Wednesday Bible Study 7pm
4215 Watonga Blvd. • 713-681-9365 Houston, TX 77092
Page 6A • Saturday, January 23, 2016
Scout from P. 1A
Reagan from P. 1A
Treasure from P. 1A
The condition is called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, or HLHP, and required three open-heart surgeries as an infant to correct. “To look at Michael today, you would never know what he has been through,” said Michael’s father, James Sackett who is himself an Eagle Scout. “When he was a child, the outlook for the future was dim, and it took many surgeries to correct Michael’s plumbing, but he has done very well.” The Boy Scouts of America is one of the nation’s largest, values-based youth development organizations. The BSA offers a program for young people that helps build character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. To arrive at the agency’s highest designation, Eagle Scout, many objectives must be met. Sackett’s ceremony included a reading of the Scouting Principals, or objectives, to which all scouts are sworn to strive. First written at the founding of the BSA in 1912, these principals included qualities such as kindness, respect, tolerance, and courtesy, and remain as relevant today as the day they
were penned. Michael’s Scout Master, Jesse Knapp, took the podium and mentioned some of the outstanding work and merits the youth had achieved. Knapp also noted that Micheal remains a popular scout among his peers, despite the fact that the teen cooked his troupe “mac ‘n cheese with peas” on one particularly memorable camping trip. The crowd laughed and clapped at the mention. When Michael was called to the podium to speak, the young man took the opportunity to thank many who had touched his life. “First, I’d like to thank my doctors who saved my life,” Michael said. “Next, I would like to thank my parents for helping me get here. I’d also like thank my Scout Master, Mr. Jesse Knapp, for showing me the path of scouting, and I would like to thank my troupe mates for their continued friendship.” When asked which part of the ceremony was his favorite, Michael’s answer was simple. “I have to admit, that clapping part felt pretty good,” He said.
give it away at some point. A 13-year breast cancer survivor, Neumann has learned a hard lesson about the impermanence of things. She likes to make gifts of her finds and creations. A girl’s got to make a living too though. Arts columnist Mitch Cohen wrote about a road trip he took with Neumann last year to Round Top, stopping off at Buc-ee’s to see some of her cards. Neumann has created a line of over 70 images of her cut up license plates which she makes into digital greeting cards. They’re carried throughout Texas in the Buc-ee’s flagship stores and many local gift shops. With over 700 sign letters it’s a good thing she moved from the Heights 16 years ago to get some more space. “I’ve been doing handcrafted art for 19 years,” said Neumann. “I was on the early wave of recycling and repurposing.” A supporter of other artists, Neumann has a studio with six rooms near Fulton and Cavalcade. Its stairway is made of baseball bats. No surprise – it won a city award for best repurposed environment.
Numerous speakers at the meeting supported keeping the names, but there were dissenting speakers too. Howard Moon, president of Save the Name which aims to keep the Reagan High School name intact, and Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce president Jacob Millwee spoke in favor of maintaining the Reagan name. While the resolution did pass, Eastman was one of the four votes against the measure even after removing Reagan High School from the list of schools. She emphasized that her vote does not represent a “proConfederacy” standpoint and the situation warrants continued discussion with those most invested and affected by a potential name change. “I think we are in a time where our focus needs to be 100 percent on finding a new superintendent and making sure our underperforming schools have everything they need,” Eastman said. “These discussions are important but they have a time and a place, and that’s what my vote represents this eve-
ning.” Harvin Moore also previously spoke about his vote against the resolution and took issue with how the measure was added in a relatively short amount of time before the Jan. 14 meeting. Moore said that discussions had already begun in the community surrounding Lee High School,
Invitation to Bidders NNMD District Marker Signs - Landscape: Sealed bids in duplicate addressed to Near Northwest Management District (NNMD) will be received in the offices of TBG Partners (3050 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 1100, Houston, TX 77056) until 10:30 a.m., January 28th, 2016, at which time all bids will be opened and publicly read for the furnishing of all material, equipment, labor and supervision necessary or incidental to the construction of NNMD District Marker Signs – Landscape - located the Near Northwest Management District in the City of Houston. Scope of Project: Improvements, including but not limited to: fine-grading, landscape, and irrigation. A mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at the office of TBG Partners located at 3050 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 1100, Houston, TX on January 21, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. (Attendance is mandatory). Plans, specifications, and bid documents are available and may be purchased at A&E. Plans for viewing only are available at TBG Partners, Inc. Bid bonds are required and must accompany each bid. The successful bidder will be required to provide a performance bond and a payment bond, as provided for in the bid documents, for the full amount of the contract. The owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
Authentic Mej icano Cuisine
The Salvation Army Family Store
Free Dinner
Buy 1 Dinner and 2 Drinks, Get 1 Dinner Free (up to $10.00) One coupon per table
20% OFF
Dine In Only After 3:00 pm • Expires 2-6-16
Daily luNch SPEcialS Bar FacilitiES takE-Out OrDErS availaBlE
2615 Ella Blvd. @ 27th 713-868-5232
Mexican Restaurant
OPEN Monday - Saturday 8am - 10pm & Sunday 8 am - 4pm
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* No Gimmicks Just Great Plumbing * If we can’t unstop your line you don’t pay! Drain Cleaning (Mainline & Kitchen Sink)
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Buy 1 Dinner Get $4.95 OFF Second Dinner Dine-In Only. No Takeout Orders. Good 3-10 p.m. only. • Not available on Senior Citizens or Kids Menu • One coupon per table / one coupon per family ORIGINAL COUPON ONLY! No copies accepted • Must be presented before ordering • Expires 2-6-16.
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Happy Hours: Mon-Thur 3-8
All you cAn eAt Buffet (8pm-Close - Menu Order)
Fri.-Sun. 11am - 9:30pm (9pm-Close - Menu Order)
14191 NW Frwy. (290 @ Fairbanks N. Houston) 713-329-9600
11031 Northwest Frwy 290 Next to Conn’s 832-849-0947
SpeCial anytime
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1/3 lb. patty
w/ fries plate
Great Breakfast Menu Too!
www.LandaCafe.com for menu
with purchase of any $9.95 Dinner We Deliver within 4 mile radius 302 W. Crosstimbers 281-888-4876 Monday - Saturday 7am - 9pm • Sunday 7am - 3pm
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$ 99
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with shrimp
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• LIMIT ThREE cOuPONS PER TABLE • Full Service Bar - 13 oz. Regular Margaritas $2
Landa Café authentic mexican restaurant
Full Bar
Homemade Mexican Food
with 2 sides or large baked potato Mon.-Thurs. 11am - 8pm
4618 Dacoma
(Between Hwy. 290 and Mangum)
(713) 680-0825
1 lb choice ribeye steak $1275 Offers expire 2-6-16
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which is also in his district. “I think [the community was] intending to have a full discussion about it,” Moore said. “If this goes through, they will still have that discussion but I think there will be some resentment in the way it is being done.”
weekdays & saturdays 3:00-6:00 pm. sunday - all day
Mexican Restaurant
Mexican Restaurant
FAJITAS FOR TWO
15
$
45
5305 antoine @ pinemont 713-682-3853
Party Room Available
5 OFF DINNER
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Buy One Dinner And Receive $5 Off Second Dinner Of Equal Or Lesser Value. WITH THIS COUPON DINe IN ONly.
DINe IN ONly. this coupon good mon. thru fri. 3pm til closing.
valid mon.-fri. 3 pm til closing this coupon also good saturday and sunday 11:00 until closing. and all day sat. and sun.not excludes alcholic beverages valid with other offers. not valid with other offers. offer expires 2-6-16 offer expires 2-6-16
Buy 1 Entree & get
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FREE DONUTS 2 KOLACHES FREE DOzEN FREE DONUT HOLES Get 1/2 dozen glazed donuts FREE with purchase of one dozen donuts or more.
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Chinese Restaurant
10% Discount - Group of 10 or more - Eat in • not valid with other offers
Party Trays Available Open 7 Days a Week
Good at this location only. One coupon per visit. Tax not included. Not valid in conjunction with other coupons.
3410 Ella Blvd. at 34th St.
(713) 682-4343
Second Entree
1430 W. 19th Street
w w w.G o l d e n C a fe C h i n e se.co m
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Food, drink
ART
Saturday, January 23, 2016 • Page 7A
Art Valet
By Mitch Cohen
Arts Columnist
ThirstyExplorer
By Christina Martinez Managing Editor
A bright color palette for a colorful artist
Friday night at the MFAH Mixed Media
If asked to describe artist Julie Clark Howard’s personality, I would just point to her color palette. Bright primary colors stand out, rays of sunshine, splashes of water and basically, every color combination from loud to loudest! Julie C. Howard’s work is both photo realistic and symbolic. Howard is the most positive, upbeat and vivacious person I’ve met in a long time, it’s only natural that it shows through her work. Meet Julie Howard and view her photo realistic work from 6 – 9 p.m., Tuesday, February 2, at Harold’s Restaurant - 350 W. 19th St. at a free artist reception titled ‘Water Expressions’. Howard’s work will remain on view and for sale through the end of the month. Howard was born at Heights Hospital and lived at 17th and Ashland, where her daughter was born. As a child protégée, Howard drew all the cartoon characters on television, but it wasn’t until at 12 years old she got the attention of her parents, when recruiters came knocking in response to Howard’s entry to the Texas Art Institute near Rice University. With instruction from artist Gay Wood, Howard
This weekend, you’ll have the chance to get an exclusive after hour look into the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and one of their exhibits “Mark Rothko: A Retrospective.” Check out the exhibit with drinks, dancing and a house DJ. On the Friday night lineup: King Britt (Hyperdub), DJ Sun (Soular Productions), and Josh Dupont (Bedrock // Fade). While you’re there, make your own artwork inspired by the iconic paintings of Mark Rothko. Sip on cocktails and enjoy bites from the night’s food truck: SMOOSH - Custom Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches and gather your group to snap a picture in the Smilebooth to remember the night. Admission is $18 for MFAH members and $20 nonmembers. Tickets include admission to “Mark Rothko: A Retrospective”; entrance is limited to guests 18 and up. Drinks for sale at the bar. Present photo ID for admission. MFAH is located at 1001 Bissonnet St. 77005.
Featured art entitled ‘Jose Tito’ from Howard’s Water Expression series.
had her first solo show at 12 and was featured at nine more art openings with her instructor. From college at USC, Howard went on to work as an artist at advertising agencies creating background scenes and two dimension animation for companies like Disney. A difficult job, but mostly another cog in the wheel, Howard used that career to fund her next one in the mental health field. Artist Julie Howard eventually became Doctor Howard. Of course, she continues to use art in her work. I caught up with Howard, here’s our chat. What is your current art medium? Although I have worked in and with many different types of mediums, I prefer soft pas-
Featured artist Julie Howard.
tels on canvas. Working with my hands and feeling the texture and effect of blending on the canvas allows me to emotionally and physically connect with each piece. Tell me about your work, do you incorporate art? My obsession with being the smartest person in the room lead me to a career in Ortho Molecular Medicine, working in the mental health field. Art brings life to the most mundane of activities and for those who struggle to communicate certain things it brings peace and victory. Color is a vital part of living and it shares so much about a person, their thoughts, their feelings, and most important - their personality. That is why I have created a piece for the show that is all about personality and its colors. In fact, the piece will be exhibited with an interactive element. Viewers will be able to identify their “color” and then be educated about what it says about them. My bucket list includes retiring in three years to be a full time artist with a strong artistic career. Did you have a childhood inspiration? I was inspired by my great-great uncle who was a member of Walt Disney’s team, known as the ‘Nine Old Men’. I have always been an artist in my mind. Okay, you worked for Disney, won awards, but what one experience would still surprise us about you? I was Miss Texas Rodeo in the 70’s. The whole beauty thing, “strut your stuff!” was done on a dare, and I never ever thought I would win; but it was great. [I have] lots of really fabulous pairs of custom boots. In fact, I have a pair signed by Rocky Carroll, the famous local boot maker who has made custom designs for astronauts, celebrities, rock stars, and presidents. Only fitting that I have a pair to be a part of that group.
FREE Live music at Nightingale Room Catch a free show while downtown at 6 p.m. this Friday, Jan. 22, at the Nightingale Room. Headliners are a local act, Bombon and Friends. Nightingale Room is located at 308 Main St. 77002. Holiday Ale Competition at Farmboy Brew Shop The Brewers of the ‘Hood are competiting this weekend at Farmboy Brew Shop. Along with the Holiday Ale competition, everyone is invited to check out the competitors’ beer and join in a bottle share. The event is informal, come as you are, just be sure to bring beer to share! The competition starts at noon, Saturday, Jan. 23. Farmboy Brew Shop is located at 3814 N Shepherd Dr. Live music at Karbach The Karbach patio stage will be hosting two bands this Saturday - SIK Mule and Tejas! The brewery is offering tours and friendly conversation while the patio area is entertained by two local rock groups. The music starts at 1 p.m. and goes until 6 p.m. Karbach is located at 2032 Karbach St. Yuppie Heights Market This weekend, find local artists, artisans, and vintage
Featured art entitled ‘Baptism from Howard’s Water Expression series.
Facebook photo
Last year’s MFAH Mixed Media event.
find curators in the format of the traditional flea market. Catch them in the neighborhood from 1 - 5 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 24 at Yuppie Dog - 2203 Durham Dr. East End Market The East End Market is a year-round, open-air farmers and artists market on the Esplanade at Navigation. The market offers locally sourced foods and unique, handcrafted items by local artists. Head over to the market from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m, Sunday, Jan. 24 at 2800 Navigation Blvd.
Bryan Anthony & The Gentleman’s Club Brunch and free live music is what’s on the menu at MKT bar. Catch Bryan Anthony and The Gentleman’s Club, everyone’s favorite crooner, from 12-3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 24, at MKT Bar - 1001 Austin St.
Have a tip for Thirsty Explorer? Email christina@theleadernews.com and follow on Twitter @ThirstyExplorer and follow on Instagram @FromTheLeader
Hey Kids.. Join us for FREE Pizza Night! NOW Every Wednesday Night. Kids FREE table side Pizza. They make it. We bake it. 1 Free Table side kid pizza with each adult entree purchase. Limit 2 per table.
C avat o r e
i ta l i a n r e s ta u r a n t 2120 Ella Boulevard • (713) 869-6622
www.Cavatores.com
15th Annual
TriniTy JAzz FesTivAl January 29-31, 2016
Saturday, Jan. 30 / 8pm
Diane Schuur
Special Guest Dennis Dotson Quartet 6:30pm COTS Jazz Group 7:15pm Trinity Jazz Youth All-Stars Tickets $35/$15 Students
Jazz Mass
V.I.P Dinner
Leader Nibbles The season is here and The Boil House is open for crawfish season during select hours and taking Gambino’s King Cake orders. Hours are set for Friday from 5 - 9 p.m. and Saturday/ Sunday 12 - 9 p.m. Additional hours will extend in February. The Boil House is located at 606 E 11th St.
opening for lunch, all dishes at a delicious value of $10 or less,” Sonoma reports on their Twitter feed. Sonoma is located at 801 Studewood St. New hours at Juice Girl The 19th Street juice bar is opening early on Sundays now. Juice Girl is open seven
Sunday, Jan. 31
Paul English Jazz Quartet
The Gospel According to John Coltrane
6:30pm Cocktails /7:30pm Dinner featuring vocalist
King cakes and crawfish are here at the Boil House By Christina Martinez christina@theleadernews.com
Friday, Jan. 29
days a week; Monday - Saturday 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Juice Girl is located at 238 W. 19th St. Food Truck Friday Sam Houston Race Park will host its first Food Truck Friday, from 6-9 p.m., this Friday, Jan. 22. Food trucks that are participating: The Waffle Bus, What-
cha Cravin, Houston Finest Soul Food on Wheels, Happy Endings Asian Food, Churrasco’s, Custom Confections and Skratch Food Truck. Enjoy live racing while checking on the food. Gates open at 5: 30 p.m. at 7575 N. Sam Houston Pkwy W.
April Sloan-Hubert
10:30am & 1pm
composed and directed by
Paul English
Double Tree by Hilton Greenway Plaza - Tickets $125
Free to public
Tickets/info: www.trinityjazzfest.net / 713-528-4100
TriniTy Episcopal church 1015 Holman at Main St., Houston, TX 77004
Email christina@theleadernews.com
Banquet Hall
Grab-and-Go Gifts bright bags & tissue
with our complimentary
Your little shop around the corner in the Heights
Facebook photo The Boil House opened Jan. 8, and has set their hours for this year’s crawfish season.
816 E. Whitney Dr. 713-692-0198 w w w. whitneyoakshall.com
E. Whitney
Crosstimber
Northline Mall Airline Dr
Whitney Oaks Hall
5
Seating Capacity: 640 Stage • Dance Floor • Lighted Secured Parking
I-4
Sonoma in the Heights soon to open for lunch A new lunch option is hitting the menu February 1, at Sonoma in the Heights. “Excited to announce Sonoma in the Houston Heights
• New bestselling books • Fashion accessories • Stationery and cards • Waxing Poetic fine jewelry • STICKS.com wood art • Children’s books and toys • Neighborhood towels • Soaps and balms • Decorative accessories • Fun mugs and magnets
610
365 W. 19th St. • 713-868-LIFT(5438)
www.thelifton19th.com www.facebook.com/thelifton19th Instagram and Twitter: @thelifton19th
Page 8A • Saturday, January 23, 2016
Oak Forest film producer shifts gears into new educational series for kids By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com An Oak Forest-area film producer will be taking his focus from the history of Texas to reading and comprehension for children as part of a newly proposed mixed media series. Mike Vance, along with co-author John Swasey, are hoping to raise $16,000 via Kickstarter for their new project called Jungleburgh. Jungleburgh will focus on pairing original books with animal stars aimed at young children with audiobooks created by professional voice actors and sound engineers, along with websites and games designed to promote reading and comprehension. The Leader previously highlighted Vance in May 2015 when he won two REMI Awards for Documentary at
the 2015 Worldfest/Houston International Film Festival. His non-profit company, Houston Arts and Media, has concentrated primarily on the history of Texas, however this new venture into childhood education is a first. “This project in particular will be aimed at a much younger audience than the Texas history series, which is mostly for kids in the seventh grade and older,” Vance said. “This project will be targeting four, five and six year olds.” The planned first book in the series focuses on Zeke the Spider Monkey and his other animal friends – all citizens of the Jungleburgh world – and his first challenge of adjusting to getting his first pair of glasses. Vance envisions a host of other brightly animated characters making up this world, each dealing with problems
not unlike those of the children reading them. “We came up with problems that kids face and how they and their parents could try to address it and kept expanding on the idea from there,” Vance said. If all goes well, Vance says he and Swasey would like to complete about three books a year along with their illustrator. He also aims to work with educational institutions and other organizations to not only promote the Jungleburgh media series but also help provide books for classrooms. Rewards for backers include a copy of the first Jungleburgh book with a $25 pledge, the book plus one digital download of the audio book for $50, an autographed book and digital download for $100 or more. Pledges of $1,000 or more will also be rewarded with 20
Among the 10 HISD schools approved for a new magnet program was Stevens elementary, which will become a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) magnet. Other area schools that have STEM programs include Harvard Elementary and Sinclair Elementary. “That’s what parents want,” said Stevens Principal Jennifer Barrientez, who served at one time as the Assistant Principal of HISD’s The Rusk School, also a STEM magnet. It was there that Barrientez started out as the science lab teacher. “I found I was really good instructionally,” she said. “I got a passion for hands on learning.” Stevens parents got the STEM bug from their Robotics club and from the popular yearly Science Night, which draws families to do projects together and also to view student work. Barrientez said the Robotics club is currently on hiatus due to lack of a volunteer and that community
volunteers would be appreciated. “Our parents still ask about [getting robotics started again],” Barrientez said. Barrientez said that Stevens will be a STEM school next year and that she will attend a meeting this week to learn about the steps to implementation. Some less welcome news from the Texas Education Agency was that Stevens has a less than 50 percent passing rate on the science STAAR test in 2015, which earned them a campus rated improvement required designation in 2015. Barrientez attributes the showing in part to issues of overcrowding. If there are more than 22 students per teacher in a class, it affects the quality of instruction. Stevens also has one of the highest mobility rates in the district. When students are constantly cycling in and out of the school, it makes continuity difficult. Regardless of those hurdles, Barrientez said that the school’s benchmarks are up
River Cruise Seminar
books to donate to any school of choice. “I think we already have about 15 to 20 other ideas on the drawing board,” Vance said. “If we reach that $16,000 goal, we should be able to put that second book out there as well and if we exceed that goal we’ll certainly be in position to keep moving forward.” The Kickstarter page can be found at www.kickstarter. com/projects/575705390/ jungleburgh-childrens-reading-community
Steven’s Elementary goes STEM next year By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com
AvAlon WAterWAys
this year. She talked about new academic initiatives that were instituted, including the campus wide HERO in Me program which encourages students to take ownership of their behavior and their academics. The push has had a positive outcome in school discipline too. Last year, Stevens had 22 incidences where an out of school suspension was necessary, but this year there’s only been one. “If you challenge kids, they will rise to it,” said Barrientez. School beautification efforts have also impacted students. Barrientez said that the indoor and outdoor painting as well as the clean-up of the school’s exterior as a result of SPARK Park work have created “a sense of pride.” “Kids see a difference,” said Barrientez. There are still great needs as the school, foremost in the mind of Principal Barrientez – a new school building. “We really need it to get where we’re going,” she said.
You are cordially invited to a River Cruise Seminar
“Legendary River Cruises. Inspired Design.” When: Thursday, Feb. 4th at 2:30pm Where: Harold’s on 19th Street Meet with Rhonda Richardson from Avalon Waterways and Certified Avalon Waterways Specialist Douglas Burns from Culturally Creative Travel to plan your next travel Adventure!
To RSVP please call 713-688-6793
Preview Night
Monday, January 25, 2016 • RSVP at FBAHouston.org First Baptist Academy wants the students of this generation to be equipped with the Truth of God’s Word while developing their character, intellect and potential to explore, create, challenge and lead. Fully-accredited and coeducational, FBA offers Early Childhood through 8th grade college preparatory education on The Loop Campus of Houston’s First Baptist Church.
FBA approaches education with an enthusiastically Christian worldview. • FBA integrates curriculum with technology at all grade levels. • FBA partners with graduating 8th grade students and families through the high school application process with more than 98% of the students admitted into the college preparatory high school of their choice. • FBA has fully-equipped state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor athletic facilities. • FBA offers programming for students in the performing and visual arts. • FBA’s Center for Academic Success trains competent, confident learners by developing classroom independent learning tools and life skills. • FBA holds highly acclaimed accreditation through Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS).
Discover more about FBA at FBAHouston.org, or contact the Admissions team at Admissions@HFBA.org or 713.290.2524.
At }ÙÄұ Ýññ¨ÓÄұĂÒұ}ÙÄұ2ÄÝÓÙĦĝ you don’t move here just to live. You move here to Live Life Well™. Our Residents’ care is our passion and we are committed to exceeding your expectations. At The Village we don’t just care for you - we care about you and helping you live life on your terms.
Are you ready to LIVE LIFE WELL™? The Village of the Heights IS!
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