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Saturday, August 8, 2015 • Vol. 60 • No. 40 August marks the start of National Immunization Awareness Month and doctors and pediatricians across the US are reminding parents to make sure their children receive their proper immunizations and health checkups as the school year begins.

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Ending Summer with Family Fun The Leader is joining with various local sponsors to put on a Family Fun Day for local residents to wind down summer with a bit more sunshine. The event will be hosted by American Legion Post 560 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 15.

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Photos by Christina Martinez From the top going clockwise, Houston Indie rock band, Moji, performs at Town In City Brewing Company’s Grand Opening celebration in front of an estimated 1500 in attendance in the day’s span. Over at Good Dog Houston, neighbors flocked to the Deep Eddy Vodka and Craft beer tent and were greeted by smiling faces pouring adult beverages. Good Dog Houston had their food truck setup in the parking lot for hungry White Linen patrons.

Reagan High School student explores Europe, origins with fellow German exchange student By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

Birthday with the Bulls Celebrating a birthday by running for your life might not seem like an ideal way to mark a new year, but that’s exactly what Heights resident Frankie Cox did for her 40th birthday. Find out about her experience in Spain in this week’s issue.

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The INDEX. Church

5A

Classifieds

5B

Coupons

4A

Food/Drink/Art Obituaries

7A 6A

Opinion

3A

Public Information Puzzles

2A 6A

When asked to describe his friend Antonio Richter, 17-year-old Roman Dijak has one word – brother. Both Richter and Roman are currently backpacking across Europe together, vistiing countries like France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Ukraine, Latvia and Serbia. The two first met through Reagan’s student exchange program, as Dijak’s family welcomed Richter into their household. Roman’s father, William, recalls the two seemed to begin scheming together almost immediately. “When [Richter] showed up, they got to be pretty good buds right off the bat,” William Dijak said. “They were on the swim team together and my wife, who is French, also spoke German, and we all clicked well.” William Dijak said Richter’s family lives in northern Germany, not far from the border with Czechoslovakia. They live in a millhouse that is over 700 years old and he has sisters who are olympicclass skiers.

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Southwaste, Timbergrove still at odds By Jonathan Garris

jgarris@theleadernews.com

It’s been a long road for the management of Southwaste’s disposal facility on Hurst Street, officials with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and residents of Timbergrove Manor as the debate continues over allowing the disposal company to accept a greater portion of waste. TCEQ held another public meeting in the community July 30, and Timbergrove Manor Civic Club president Bill Morfey said turnout was better than the previous public meeting in October last year. The fight for residents here has been drawn out, with many focusing on what they feel is an overwhelming stench coming from the facility and also traffic issues with trucks going in and out of the area. “The mood was a bit more adversarial and, at times, poignantly so,” Morfey said. Part of the reason for the adversarial reaction, Morfey said, was the perceived indifference some residents felt TCEQ acted with regarding complaints from citizens living near the disposal plant. The facility collects and treats grease from surrounding restaurants and other businesses to manufacture biofuels; however residents have repeatedly complained to the TCEQ regarding what they call a foul stench coming from the facility. In a previous Leader article, vice president of operations Tim Cox explained the company’s desire to install a new scrubber unit designed to mitigate the odor coming from the facility and also the group’s intention to enSee Southwaste, P. 6A

New principal settles in at Oak Forest By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

we’re his parents and has no problem, but he couldn’t help but be emotional when he returned to Ukraine.” For the two youngsters, the current trip is a chance to strengthen their bond and, for Roman, gain a

Dr. April Williams took the helm of Oak Forest Elementary in mid-July and said that the Oak Forest community has already been very welcoming and encouraging. “I am thrilled to be a part of such a strong staff and involved community,” Williams said. “By far, my favorite part about the school has been meeting all the wonWilliams derful kids who have come to say hi and welcome me as their principal.” Williams previously served as an assistant principal at Lanier Middle School. She began her 12-year career with HISD as a fifth-grade teacher at Law Elementary School, and has served as a classroom teacher at both Peck Elementary and Ryan Middle School. Williams also held the role of high school graduation coach. While at both Peck and Ryan, she received the Classroom Teacher of the Year and the English as a Second Language

See Europe, P. 6A

See Principal, P. 8A

Contributed Photo Roman Dijak looks out across Budapest and the Danube River - one of many stops for the 17-year-old Reagan High School student and his German friend who visited Houston as an exchange student this year.

Richter’s background also struck a chord with Roman, who was adopted from the Ukraine in 1999. He had the chance to visit the orphanage he had come from in 2006 and William said it was an emotional experience for his son. “There are different kinds

of adoptions – some are open and some are more closed but we’ve always been pretty open,” William Dijak said. “Our other son is adopted from Russia. [Roman] had this tremendous ambition to visit where he’s from even when he was younger and he understands

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The public. Saturday, August 8, 2015 • Page 2A

Police Reports • July 25 - Aug. 2 JULY 25

Don’t Be A Victim!

Theft 8 AM 2200-2299 N SHEPHERD Theft 2 PM 2200-2299 WILLOWBY Theft 8:11 PM 1500-1599 LAIRD Theft 7:57 AM 1500-1599 W 18TH Assault 1:57 PM 5000-5099 YALE Burglary 11:57 AM 1800-1899 CHIPPENDALE Theft 1:22 PM 4200-4299 WATONGA Theft 8:01 PM 1400-1499 ALEXANDER Theft 3 PM 2500-2599 N SHEPHERD Theft 8:38 AM 500-599 W 32ND Theft 5 AM 2500-2599 BEALL

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JULY 26

Burglary 4 PM 1400-1499 W 24TH Burglary 10:44 PM 200-299 W 19TH Theft 5:40 PM 2500-2599 HARVARD Burglary 10:22 PM 5000-5099 DE MILO Theft 9 PM 1400-1499 N DURHAM

JULY 27

Theft 7:53 AM 800-899 W 20TH Robbery 10:23 AM 3200-3299 LAWRENCE Burglary 4:31 PM 400-499 OXFORD Burglary 8:05 PM 5500-5599 LARKIN Theft 6:08 AM 1000-1099 CHESHIRE Theft 3 PM 5100-5199 N SHEPHARD Theft 11:39 AM 5300-5399 N SHEPHERD Theft 6:05 PM 1500-1599 EBONY Theft 11:30 AM 10600-10699 NORTHWEST FWY

JULY 29

Burglary 9:57 AM 2300-2399 HEWITT Theft 5 PM 4600-4699 SHEPHERD Theft 3:06 AM 200-299 S HEIGHTS BLVD Burglary 1:20 PM 300-399 W 26TH Theft 1:32 PM 1100-1199 W MELWOOD Theft 6:35 PM 600-699 CROSSTIMBERS Assault 3:44 PM 900-999 THORNTON Robbery 1:02 PM 1100-1199 CHAMBOARD Robbery 4:23 PM 4000-4099 W 34TH Burglary 4 AM 4500-4599 GARDENDALE Theft 9:20 PM 5100-5199 WASHINGTON Theft 5:30 AM 4400-4499 N SHEPHERD DR

JULY 28

Burglary 7:50 AM 1200-1299 WAVERLY Burglary 5:33 PM 2300-2399 BEALL Burglary 1:45 PM 1000-1099 E 32ND Theft 10:43 AM 400-499 S HEIGHTS BLVD Burglary 8:10 PM 500-599 E

Burglary 12:44 AM 100-199 HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 12:22 AM 400-499 S HEIGHTS BLVD

JULY 30

Assault 2:38 PM 2300-2399 N SHEPHERD Theft 12:49 PM 1100-1199 E 11TH Burglary 9:01 AM 800-899 BEVERLY Theft 11:27 AM 4100-4199 N SHEPHERD Theft 4 PM 400-499 S HEIGHTS BLVD Burglary 12:25 PM 700-799 T C JESTER Theft 6:32 PM 5100-5199 LILLIAN Theft 6:24 AM 1400-1499 W 43RD Burglary 6:22 AM 4800-4899 W 34TH

JULY 31

Theft 5:42 PM 1100-1199 E 11TH Theft 5:23 PM 1100-1199 E 11TH Theft 7:10 AM 900-999 E 26TH Theft 2 PM 4000-4099 CENTER Theft 11 AM 2500-2599 N LOOP W

AUG. 1

Theft 5:20 AM 1100-1199 ROBBIE Theft 5 AM 600-699 E 12TH Robbery 8:09 PM 900-999 E 26TH Theft 3 PM 2400-2499 WHITE OAK DR Theft 5 PM 200-299 HEIGHTS BLVD Burglary 10 AM 5000-5099 YALE Burglary 9:19 PM 2700-2799 W T C JESTER

AUG. 2

Theft 7:27 PM 2800-2899 CENTER Theft 5:37 AM 400-499 S HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 4 PM 2400-2499 WASHINGTON Theft 7:50 AM 1900-1999 E CROSSTIMBERS Reports are provided by SpotCrime.com based on data from the Houston Police Department.

Precinct One Alerts: Woman scares off man trespassing in her vehicle the car and ran off towards Regan Street. The deputies arrived and checked the area. The deputies were unable to locate the suspect. At this time the complainant does not notice anything to be missing from the car or any damages to the car. A HPD case was completed for Criminal Trespass of a Motor Vehicle and the case was referred to the Houston Police Department for investigation.

Woodland Heights and Houston Heights On Aug. 2 at approximately 11:20 p.m., deputies responded to the 600 block of Woodland Street on a Criminal Trespass of a Motor Vehicle call. The complainant advised that while she was unloading her car and taking items inside of the house an unknown white male suspect was observed sitting inside her car. The complainant reported when she was approaching her car she saw a white male sitting in her unlocked car. When the unknown white male suspect heard her yelling at him he exited

of Arlington Street in reference to a delayed reporting of a Burglary of a Motor Vehicle. The reportee stated on Saturday she noticed items had been taken from inside her vehicle but did not file a police report. The reportee advised the Deputy she had left her doors unsecured and an unknown person entered their vehicle and took items not belonging to them. A report was taken and will be referred to the Houston Police Department for investigation. Please report suspicious activity to local Law Enforcement.

Houston Heights Associations On Aug. 4, at approximately 9 a.m., deputies responded to the 600 block

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Federal agents detain 11 workers at Heights business By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

Federal agents raided a business in the Heights Tuesday morning and detained 11 workers at the scene, officials say. At around 10 a.m., special agents with the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Labor served a criminal search warrant at La Espiga de Oro, located at 1200 15th St., Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesperson Greg Palmore said. Palmore said 11 people were detained and will be questioned as material witnesses in an ongoing investigation and will likely be

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The Topics. Saturday, August 8, 2015 • Page 3A

Summer fun has turned into felonies M y rust-colored bicycle didn’t come equipped with an odometer. When I hung up the phone, which had a cord that could reach clear across the kitchen, Scott knew it would take me about 10 minutes to get to his house. Of course, neither Scott nor I knew we lived almost a mile apart, probably because we were nine years old, and details like that didn’t matter when 3-pound catfish needed to be fed. Before I hopped on the bike, I stuffed a paper bag full of anything mom wouldn’t notice missing. I grabbed three cheap hotdogs, because each dog turned into five pieces of bait, six if the fish were starving. Here’s another secret: Drizzle a little water on a piece of white bread, tear it into four equal parts, and roll each quarter into a tight ball. Magically, you have four pieces of plaster that won’t come off a treble hook and more than likely snags another lunker if the perch don’t get there first. If the chores were finished and the sun shined, you could bet your property that most summer days, Scott and I were meeting at his house in 10 minutes, parking our

Jonathan McElvy Publisher

bikes at the edge of a creek, and walking another quarter mile to a pond full of swarming mosquitoes and bored catfish. I don’t remember the conversations my best friend and I had on those day-long expeditions. Again, we were nine, and 9-year-olds don’t follow politics. We didn’t gossip about friends, because that seemed a waste of time. We sure as sin didn’t talk about the latest video games because Atari only had four of them and we never finished a game of Defender smelling like pine needles and slimy fish. We liked those smells. Scott and I didn’t fish every day. We organized a baseball league in the neighborhood; even invited the obnoxious (though kind of cute) girls to watch us play on the original Field of Dreams – the one in my

Wannabe presidents are militarily a sorry lot Presidential candidate Donald Trump has raised a ruckus by saying that Sen. John McCain “was not a hero.” Most people, including those also running for their party’s presidential nomination, have jumped into the fight, court martialing Trump for his opinion. But, in fact, we do overuse the title “hero,” especially when ordering sandwiches. If every person in the military is a hero, even every POW is one, this dilutes the beatification of those of us who truly deserve the honor. So this is a good time to look at the military records of people who would be our commander in chief. McCain deserves the title, not because he was shot down and tortured, but because when the North Vietnamese government realized that McCain, the son and grandson of admirals, was the son of the commander of the U.S. Navy Pacific Command, they offered to free him. McCain would only accept repatriation if every man taken before him was released as well. No deal, said his torturers. I don’t know about you, but I would have been on the next Southwest flight out of Hanoi. McCain’s naval honors include the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross. This makes him a hero. As for today’s wannabe presidents, militarily they are a pretty sorry lot. The draft ended in 1973, so any male candidate born after 1955, didn’t face compulsory military service. But could volunteer. (Incidentally, the Selective Service System law is still in effect, and all males between 18 and 25 must register. Wonder what percentage?) Trump admits to applying and receiving four separate draft deferments, then got a medical deferment because of a bone spur on his foot. When asked which foot, he said he didn’t know, adding: “You’ll have to look it up.” Huh? He doesn’t know which foot? Jeb Bush was eligible for the draft, and registered for service during his freshman year at UT, but the war was slowing and he was never called. ‘’I got a physical,’’ he said. “I was prepared to serve.’’ But he never volunteered, either. (At this point it is only fair that I explain my own military service. I cleverly avoided the Army draft by joining the U.S. Marine Corps. My drill instructor urged me to defect.) Among others in the GOP fold, Rick Santorum did not serve, nor did Chris Christi, although the Army said he could join as a tank. Dr. Ben Carson excelled in JROTC in high school, quickly rose in rank and was offered an appointment to West Point. He turned it down for Yale, and never joined the military. Ted Cruz never put on a uniform, either that of the US or Canada. (Remember, Cruz didn’t renounce his Canadian citizenship until August 2013 when his dual citizenship was revealed by the Dallas Morning News.) Still there are other GOP candidates who really did put on a uniform. Rick Perry joined the Air Force after graduating from Texas A&M, where he was in the Corps of Cadets. Perry flew C-130s, those great big cargo planes, all over the world. Lindsey Graham, being a lawyer, served in the JAG of the Air Force from 1982 to 1988 and served in the South Carolina Air National Guard, then the Air Force Reserves, rising

Lynn Ashby Columnist

to the rank of colonel. And those are about it in the ranks of the GOP. Mike Huckabee, Bobby Jindal, John Kasich, Rand Paul, George Pataki, Marco Rubio, Scott Walker and Carly Fiorina, among others, seem to have gotten no closer to military duty than giving to the Salvation Army. This is traditional. The Republican’s last presidential nominee, Mitt Romney, did not serve in the military, but did receive a deferment to serve the Mormon Church on a 30-month mission. In Uganda? Bolivia? Mali? Not exactly. In France. He received four draft deferments and a safe lottery number. On the other hand, as a college student Romney had demonstrated in favour of the Vietnam War. That is called an “oxy-Mormon.” Romney has five sons. None of them ever put on a uniform. The most famous high profile GOPer is super-hawk on Iraq, Dick Chaney, who received five deferments during the Vietnam War, (so did Joe Biden), explaining later: “I had other priorities in the 60’s than military service.” The Democrats also have very little to salute in this matter. Bill Clinton was a master draft dodger. He jumped through hoops to avoid the military. The front runner in the Dem primaries is Hillary Clinton, who never served, even as a nurse. On the other hand, would you really want to be wounded and lying in a field hospital with Nurse Ratched taking care of you? Bernie Sanders is old enough to have qualified for the draft – into the Union Army. I can’t find any evidence he ever joined any military, but his record is anti-war and supporter of veterans. Lincoln Chafee graduated with a degree in classics from Brown University. He then moved to Bozeman, Mont., studied to become a farrier at Montana State University, then worked at harness racetracks. Maybe he could join the horse cavalry. Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley’s father served in the U.S. Army Air Force in the Pacific during WW II, and said he witnessed the mushroom cloud rise over Hiroshima while on a routine mission. That’s close enough for government work. Jim Webb, a former Democratic senator from Virginia, led a Marine Corps platoon and company in Vietnam, later served as assistant defense secretary and secretary of the Navy. His medals include the Navy Cross (that’s second only to the Medal of Honor), the Silver Star and two Bronze Stars. So we have candidates who want to be our commander in chief, but most either dodged the draft or never volunteered to serve in the military. To those Americans who actually put on a uniform, this says more about their character than all their campaign speeches. AWOL Ashby is hiding at ashby2@ comcast.net

backyard. One summer – must have been ’84 – we hosted an area-neighborhood Olympics. After watching Carl Lewis dominate the rest of the world, our entire group of friends – at least a dozen of us – thought we were the fastest of the lot. The crease in the curb was the starting line; the sapling in the neighbor’s yard the finish. We built wooden boats and raced them down the creek. We played war, painting our faces with mud and brandishing sticks for rifles. We chased squirrels with BB guns, even though we always missed. We built tree houses that would have sent OSHA into seizures. Our moms told us goodbye in the mornings and never seemed to ask any questions so long as we made it home for dinner. Why am I taking you down a useless road of memories? Back here in 2015, we’re a couple of weeks from our children heading back to school. Nearly all of them are fresh off two months of structured camps every single week. None of them are fresh from a couple of months of exploration with friends. I know, I know. Times are different today. There are more creeps

in the world. We don’t know our neighbors the way we once did. If a child played along the street – where, incidentally, we held our Olympics – the neighbors all looked out for the kids. Today, the neighbors don’t even know the kids’ names. There’s another reason children don’t get out and play on their own anymore. In Silver Spring, Md., a couple let their 10- and 6-year-old daughters play at a park two blocks from their house. The parents weren’t at the park – they simply told the girls to be home by 6 p.m. A police officer spotted the children, placed them in the back seat of his squad car, and drove them 10 miles away to a Child Protective Services office. CPS didn’t call the parents until 8 p.m., according to media reports, and the children weren’t released to their parents until 10:30 p.m. In order to take the children home, the parents “had to sign a safety plan that prohibits them from leaving their children unattended.” That happened in this spring. A couple of days later, a couple in Florida was charged with child neglect because they were stuck in a traffic jam and their 11-year-old son

got home before they did. The son didn’t have a key to the house, so he did what most 11-year-olds would do and started playing basketball. When the parents arrived home, they were greeted by CPS and law enforcement and were booked on a felony. How did police find out about the boy being stranded at home? Funny answer: A neighbor peered out the window, saw the child, and called the police concerned about his welfare. That’s right. Instead of checking on the boy, seeing if he needed anything, making sure he was OK, the neighbor called the cops. The boy was sent to live with a relative until he begged a judge to be reunited with his parents. My parents begged me to get outside and play with my friends. If there weren’t any friends, they suggested I find something to do with myself. Of course, back then, they weren’t worried about the ills we have today. And back then, our parents didn’t spoon-feed us exotic summer camps and gluten-free diets, either. I’m just sorry my son won’t get to experience the youth I had. I don’t need a felony on my record. Email jonathan@theleadernews.com

The reader. August is here, finally!

Dear Editor: At last, finally, August is arriving in Houston. (August certainly took its sweet time getting here!) The soothingly torrid sun, the luxurious sweltering afternoons, the never-ending thrum of air-conditioners all over the place, the marvelously cleansing humidity. And the very best thing about August in Houston is the Heights ice houses, our most grand time of year when all of our beerjoint women, drawing hearty puffs on their cigarettes, sport indescribably alluring crescents of sweat beads above their upper lips. It just doesn’t GET any better than this. J. Reynolds

Reader offers some suggestions for White Linen Night

Dear Editor: White Linen Night jumped the shark a few years ago, but unfortunately, this year’s even was the worst yet. There is no crowd movement, it is impossible to go anywhere on 19th Street without having your feet stepped on, beer spilled on you or rolling coolers bashing into your ankles. I couldn’t even make it to the Art Market. The Heights is a dry neighborhood (most of the people coming don’t know this), but alcohol has now become the focus of the event. Everyone mills about with their cooler on wheels or carrying their six packs, and, due to the dearth of outhouses, urinating in the alley and on the sides of buildings is common. It’s just no fun to be boxed in by a crowd of drinkers and the multiple bands, DJs and other per-

formers all at once in close proximity is simply not conducive to hearing any of them, not to mention the deafening roar of food truck generators. The event has lost the meaning that it once had. My suggestions for future White Linen Nights are: 1) move the Art Market off 19th, the way that it used to be, 2) the dry ordinance in the Heights should be emphasized, no open containers allowed, no public urination, 3) the stores and restaurants on 19th Street should coordinate the locations and times of performers, so that there is not a band every 30 feet, 4) the arts, the music and the stores and restaurants should once again be the focus of the event, 5) I brought my dog, this was ill advised, I would suggest no dogs, no coolers on wheels, no wagons and no baby carriages, all of which trip people up in the crush of bodies, 6) start later, maybe 9:30 PM until 3 AM, 7) reconsider the closing of 19th Street. Perhaps some changes can save the event, otherwise it is another Free Press Summer Fest or some other generic festival. Jason Hochman

Residents debate sidewalk petitioned by child in Candlelight Plaza

Dear Editor: These are my people. Sigh. Everywhere in America a sidewalk is an amenity. It increases property values. Only in Oak Forest would they not want sidewalks. I got it. People from the other side of Pinemont will be lurking. Jefferson Woodruff

Dear Editor: A correction, it may have been stated as such at one time, but the child who requested did not attend Dominion Academy. I guess she used the safe sidewalk application as it seemed the most applicable due to the distance from the school. Now at least one resident is accusing the poor kid of making the request “under false pretenses”…as if she lied and said “I go to DA and need the sidewalk.” That isn’t the case. Meg

Reader offers help for Stevens Elementary SPARK Park Dear Editor: I would like more information on helping with the work as well as sponsoring some of the items still needed. Justin Burke

VISION: Law enforcement embraces new collaboration, predictive analytics

Dear Editor: Taking the bite out of crime is great news. How about we get some cooperation with companies NOT COMPLIANT to State and Federal Laws when it comes to NOT COMPLYING to ID Theft LAWS? A company has a Corporate Governance for an employee to follow but the company DOESN’T follow their OWN Governance. Would you like proof or can you handle the TRUTH? Erick Mann

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Page 4A • Saturday, August 8, 2015

St. Matthew’s embraces new pastor, Virginia Wall TX with their own families, Wall said she has felt right at home living in the area. Her first sermon at the church focuses on relationships between the congregation with god through Jesus Christ and the power of forgiveness. “When it comes to the chuch, the main philosophy is that we have love,� Wall said. “Love is our guiding principle and for everything I do it is centered around that love.� Looking forward, Wall said she is also excited to be part of a church that has been doing an “awesome� job in terms of reaching out tot eh community.

By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com

Rev. Virginia Wall says she feels both excited and blessed to take up her position as pastor of St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church at 4300 North Shepherd Dr. Wall comes to The Leader area from Longview, TX, where she served at the Wesley-McCabe United Methodist Church for seven years. She was born in the Caribbean and first immigrated with her mother to the US in 1974. She was ordained in 2010 and previously lived in Brooklyn with her husband and children over 20 years

Virginia Wall

ago but said she wanted a better environment for her family and found herself in Texas. While her daughter and son both live in Stafford,

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“We have a pre-school ministry, Mother’s Day Out, we have a blessing for the homeless where we hand out food and we have a very big ministry going on with our connection to MANNA,� Wall said. “My goal will be to assess these relationships and see how I can build upon them. At this point, I’m going to build upon the foundation laid at St. Matthew’s.� Wall’s message to her congregation is simple. “We have been given a truly awesome gift of salvation and with that salvation comes freedom,� Wall said. “We live by a mission – that being the transformation of the world

– with God and Christ and we have to be committed to the partnerships and helping people know they will feel the love of god. We can accomplish greater things together Ad # 30111 rather than being apart.�

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Saturday, August 8, 2015 • Page 5A

The calendar. LOVE, LOSS AND WHAT I WORE Celebration Theatre Come see this hilarious, poignant and provacative play about women and the dilemma of what to wear. The play will run from Aug. 7-Aug. 30, at Music Box Theatre, 2623 Colquitt St. Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances will be at 7:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Sundays. Visit the website for performance dates and to purchase tickets. Information: 832-330-5478, celebrationtheatrehouston.com. R.A.D. SELF-DEFENSE FOR WOMEN Harris County Constable Precinct One Harris County Constable Precinct One will be hosting a free self-defense for women’s program from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 10-13. This program is free to all women 14 years of age and older. However, girls 14-17 must have a parent or sibling 18 years of age or older accompany them. Registration is required. This is a 90% hands on self-defense class for women only. The class will be held at St. Stephens United Methodist Church, 2003 W. 43rd St. Information: 713-755-7677, www.pct1constable.net.

HAPPY HOUR MEETING Houston Heights Association This month’s meeting will focus on bikes - trails, security, safety and fun. Happy hour and meet the speakers is at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program and meeting at 7 p.m. Aug. 10. The meeting will be at the Historic Heights Fire Station located at 107 W. 12th St. Guests include BikeHouston - Government and Community Affairs Manager Mary Blitzer, and Capt. Larry Satterwhite from HPD speaking about road safety and theft deterrents and City of Houston city planner Cathy Halka. Information: www.houstonheights.org, 713-861-4002. GATEWAY TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT LUNCHEON Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce Come out and meet representatives from the city, county, state and national levels available to answer questions, report updates and clarify their roles in the region. There will be a mayoral candidate forum with Chris Bell, Stephen Costello, Adrian Garcia, Bill King, Marty McVey and Sylvester Turner participating. The luncheon will be from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Aug. 12, at the

#HI # -!/ - $ 0H $ Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel, 3000 N. Loop W. Fwy. Information: 713-861-6735, events@heightschamber.com, heightschamber.com/GatewayLocalGov.

Houston Family Arts Center is located at 10760 Grant Road. Information: 281-587-6100, www. houstonfac.com.

READY, SET, ENROLL Lone Star College-CyFair Attend one of several Enrollment Information Sessions to receive hands-on assistance with enrollment steps and financial aid. In addition, students will be able to complete their Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination Shot for $20. Sessions are set from 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. Aug. 13 at the LSC-Fairbanks Center, 14955 Northwest Frwy. Call or email for other locations. Information: 281-290-3420, cfoutreach@ lonestar.edu. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE AUDITIONS Houston Family Arts Center Houston Family Arts Center announces auditions for Doug Rand’s stage adaptation of It’s A Wonderful Life. Open auditions are from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 22. Callbacks will be on Aug. 24 by invitation only. Audition appointments can be made at http://bit. ly/HFACauditions. The minimum age to audition is 8 years old.

EVENING OF STORYTELLING The Houston Storytellers Guild The Houston Storytellers Guild presents an evening of storytelling for children and adults from 5-7 p.m. Aug. 29, at Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church’s Parish Hall, 1819 Heights Blvd. Featured storytellers are Larry Thomas, Sally Bates Goodroe, and Sheila Phillips. Admission is $10 a family and $5 for individuals. Information: www. houstonstorytellers.org.

Damascus MBC celebrates 149 years Damascus Missionary Baptist Church, 3122 Center St., will be celebrating their 149th Historical Church Anniversary with a Climax celebration at 3:30 p.m. Aug. 9. The guest minister will be Rev. Byrd Lacey Jr., Pastor of Greater Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. Call 713-862-3539 for information. Indoor garage sale at Advent Lutheran It’s that time again. Shop Advent Lutheran Church’s indoor garage sale from 8 a.m.1 p.m. Aug. 15. Free popcorn will be provided. The church is located at

5820 Pinemont Dr. Call 713686-8201 for information. Hope Episcopal holds back to school blessings Hope Episcopal Church, 1613 W. 43rd St., is having a Blessing of the Backpacks and Blessing for Teachers, at the 10:30 a.m. service Aug. 16. All children and teachers are welcome to participate in a sendoff for the 2015/2016 academic year. Call 713-681-6422 for information. Lifeline screening at St. Matthew’s St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church, 4300 N. Shepherd Dr., will offer Life Line Screening from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 20. Pre-registration is required. Call 1-888-6536450 to register. Anyone in need of some quiet, spiritual time may visit the Wednesday evening prayer and praise service. This time of reflection song and prayer is at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday evenings. Virginia Wall leads the service in the parlor. Call 713-697-0671 or visit www.stmatthewsmethodist. org for information. New pastor at Heights Christian Church Heights Christian Church, 1703 Heights Blvd., welcomes their new pastor Elizabeth Grasham. She includes an interesting presentation for The Children’s Talk, in the sermon on

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THE X-RAY EXAMINATION Chase Baker, D.D.S.

D

uring a dental examination, the dentist will need to take x-rays in order to confirm the findings from the clinical examination. These x-rays should include films showing all the roots of the teeth, as well as clear views between teeth where they contact each other. A full examination, recommended at the first dental visit and then approximately every 36 months (or when a problem is suspected) might include from 16 to 22 films. The reason for this many films is that the dentist needs to see clearly the following areas: all root tips, the sinuses, the bone around the teeth and behind the last teeth and the contacts between all of the teeth. For periodic check ups, approximately every six to 18 months, four bitewing x-rays should suffice. Though these will not show the root tips or bone as well, they will show any new cavities which have formed which cannot be seen visually. Your dentist will let you know which x-rays he recommends for you to ensure that you are being cared for as well as possible. 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.

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(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

Reverend Noelie Day

www.oak s p r e s b y t e r i a n . o r g

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GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH 4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227 Reverend John Cain, Pastor Worship Services 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. (Nursery Provided) Sunday School & Bible Classes 9:15 a.m. Preschool Program • Mon. - Fri. 9-2 p.m. www.gethsemanelutheran.org

713-688-9625

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Oaks Christian ChurCh

1822 W. 18th

(across from Heights Hospital)

713-906-5481 Realty Associates

Sunday mornings. Bible Study is at 10:30 a.m. every Friday morning. Grasham is also conducting a casual conversation group speaking on contemporary subjects, ie. war, money, patriotism and more at the Red Desert Dive cafe, located at 1035 Studewood at 6 p.m. Tuesday nights. For information, call 713861-0016 or visit www.hcchouston.org.

ChurCh 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

427 West 20th St. • Suite 212

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From the Pews. Fellowship lunch at St. Stephen’s St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church will have a monthly fellowship lunch Aug. 9, following the 11 a.m. service. A Hymn Sing, featuring a bluegrass band, will be held after lunch, followed by an oldfashioned ice cream social. Adults age 50+ are welcome to attend the VIPs Luncheon, Thursday, Aug. 13, in the fellowship hall. Entertainment by jazz duo, Pam and Harry, begins at 11 a.m., followed by lunch at noon. The cost is $8. RSVP to Barbara Johnson at 713-686-6116. St. Stephen’s UMC is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. For information, call 713-686-8241 or visit www.stsumc.org.

$FSUJmFE #Z "NFSJDBO #PBSE PG *OUFSOBM .FEJDJOF 3ERVING THE (EIGHTS FOR OVER YEARS

Member of MANNA

I

Speak WordS ThaT UplifT and inSpire

t is perhaps a clichĂŠ that words can heal or words can harm. But, it is nevertheless true that we can uplift and inspire our fellows with words or we can belittle and degrade them. Thus we should always choose our words carefully. Consider the effect which your words will have on others before you blurt them out. And of course words are not the only way for us to express ourselves to each other. Our body language and demeanor speak volumes. If you roll your eyes when someone is speaking you are showing contempt for them. If you ignore someone who is talking to you, this failure to recognize them can be profoundly disrespectful. The forms of language and discourse, both verbal and bodily, are ways in which we can either validate or invalidate others. We should speak words which uplift and inspire others rather than humiliate or attack them. Almost everyone responds to kindness, whether that is a kind word or a kind smile. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh wordstirs up anger.â€? Proverbs 15:1

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

it is the norhill Church of Christ.

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

www.noRHiLLCoC.oRG

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

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

1700 West 43 rd at Rosslyn 713-682-4942

Pastor – Dr. Richard Walters

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

Page 6A • Saturday, August 8, 2015

Tabby clears the air about reader’s gassy problem

Dear Tabby, I have reasons to believe (without getting too nitty gritty) that my pets need some extra fiber in their diets. How can I safely add fiber to their diets? Gassy in Garden Oaks Dear Gassy

Humans are always encouraged to find ways to add more fiber to their diets, so that begs the question: Should your pets get supplemental fiber as well? For the most part, there’s a fair-amount of fiber in most commercial pet foods, so adding fiber isn’t always a

necessity. But, if you’re seeing your pet have some tummy issues, naturally head to the vet first. Once you get the all-clear from the vet, then you might want to incorporate some extra fiber into their diet. Going the all-natural route is your safest bet. There are some fruits and vegetables that offer a substantial amount of fiber and are completely safe for your pet to consume. • Bran is the outer shell of a grain and often removed during processing. Bran is rich in fiber, so sprinkle some in your dog’s food. It can either be rice bran, oat bran, or wheat bran. Because of its nutritional value, it is one of the most common home remedies for constipation and lack of fiber. It is best when you soak it in water so that it can be digested better by your dog. • Apples are also very rich in fiber and many other good nutrients, and your dog can eat them. Make sure to re-

move the core and the seeds, because the seeds contain bits of cyanide which can be toxic to your dog. Your dog may choose from either red or green apples for his diet and unsweetened applesauce can also work for your dog’s kibble. • Canned pumpkin that is unseasoned is also good for your dog. Spoon some on your dog’s food, around ½ teaspoon for smaller dogs and around 1 tablespoon for medium-sized and bigger dogs. It helps relieve them from constipation and diarrhea and even has a good taste. They can also be put in ice cube trays on the fridge, and then put in freezer bags. • Brown rice is also rich in fiber, and even has three times the fiber of regular white rice. Make it a family meal and give some to your dog as a topper on his kibble. You can also put plain broth as a flavoring. • Vegetables are also help-

Oak Forest Elementary student attends 2015 Lone Star Leadership Academy For The Leader Oak Forest Elementary’s Elizabeth Johnson, the daughter of Kenneth and Imelda Johnson, was selected to travel to Dallas/Fort Worth to participate in a summer 2015 Lone Star Leadership Academy camp. Johnson’s selection was based on her outstanding academic success, demonstrated leadership ability, involvement in school and community activities, and a nomination from OFE’s assistant principal Rachel Folse. Johnson joined a delegation of outstanding students from across the state to develop leadership skills while learning about the great state of Texas and its leaders. She visited significant sites in the Dallas/Fort Worth area including the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the Perot Museum of Nature and

Science, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, the Texas Civil War Museum, the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Texas educators facilitate the camps, including leadership groups where Johnson and other participants examined qualities of effective leaders, practiced leadership skills and discussed what they learned at the sites visited. Education in Action is a non-profit organization that hosts camps to empower young people to be informed and active leaders in their communities. Outstanding Texas students are invited to participate in Lone Star Leadership Academy camps in Dallas/Fort Worth, Austin/ San Antonio and Houston/

ful in establishing a good fiber diet for your dog’s food. Use them as treats (e.g. carrot sticks, green beans, peas, etc.) or mix them with your dog’s However, DO NOT feed him canned vegetables because these contain a lot of sodium, which is known to be harmful to pets. You can try the readymade mixed vegetables which are normally frozen and easily cooked, as they are low in sodium content. Chicken broth can also be added to put flavor, especially if your dog is a picky eater and likes flavored food. • Remember to start slowly with the fiber and don’t give your pet too much. Diarrhea, gassiness and bloat can happen as a result of too much fiber. Hopefully the addition of a few healthy fruits and veggies to your pet’s diet will clear the air a bit in your home. Do you have a burning question for Tabby? If so, email her at

Pet of the Week

Meet Radar. This 11 month old Toy Fox Terrier is a “triple threat”: He’s playful, but loves napping and is potty trained. It doesn’t get much better than that! Radar loves other dogs, kids and is ready to start his new life. If you think that Radar is the pup for you, contact K-9 Angels Rescue at www.K-9AngelsRescue.org or www.facebook. com/k9angelsrescue.

The Obituaries.

Agnes Eve Best, 90, born Dec. 9, 1916 in Kennard, Texas, died July 27. She enjoyed teaching Sunday school to the children of the Baptist Temple Church in the Heights for more than 50 years. Upon visiting Baptist Temple today one will find many adults who were taught the ways of Jesus by Best when they were once first graders. She is survived by her daughters Becky Sullivan and Betty Bailey, and four grandchildren. Mary A Bodger, 95, born July 21, 1920, died July 29. Margaret Burleson, 84, born Dec. 20, 1930 in Tyler, Texas, died Aug. 1. She married H.D. Burleson on April 29, 1950. They enjoyed more than 43 years of marriage and she was preceded in death by her husband. She is survived by her sons, Ron, Larry and Terry Burleson, six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Nicolas Oliver Merhan, died July 24.

Elizabeth Johnson

Galveston. Participants must be in 4th through 8th grade, maintain an 85 or higher average, demonstrate leadership ability, be involved in community or school activities, and receive an educator recommendation. For more information call 817-5624957 or visit www.educationinaction.org.

Bobby Starnes, 86, born Oct. 10, 1928 in Greenville, South Carolina, died July 29. He is preceded in death by his wife Jeanette Starnes and granddaughter Kelly Bircher. Bobby enjoyed spending time with his family, his carpentry work, and his beloved dog Susie. He is survived by his children: Michael T. Starnes and wife Karen; Patricia Bircher and husband Tim; and Mark A. Starnes and partner Jon. He has four grandchildren: Kimberly Moon and husband Brian; Travis Starnes; Blake Starnes; and Laura Starnes. He also has four great grandchildren: Thomas Moon, Timothy Moon, Madilyn McGraw, and Logan Starnes. A private Celebration of Life is being planned. Veatrice La Merle Taylor, 87, born July 10, 1928, died Aug. 2.

Taylor was an avid bridge player, and enjoyed Sunday morning church services at The Clarewood House. She is survived by her sons Thomas Craig Taylor and Stanley Ray Taylor, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Shirley Koteras Towns, 72, born Oct. 16, 1942, died July 31, after a long battle with brain cancer. Towns was a graduate of St. Pius X, class of 1961. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Oscar L. Towns, daughters Kristin Wells and Kelli Wright, and three grandchildren.

Southwaste from P. 1A close the plant’s grease pit in a self-contained facility. However, Morfey said that scrubber still has not been installed and Timbergrove Manor residents have continued voicing their displeasure. Morfey also said TCEQ officials at the meeting claimed they couldn’t substantiate any of the complaints made by local residents regarding the odor issue, something many in attendance “vehemently” disagreed with. “There was a point I made during the informal comment period about how that might not display a lack of substantial complaints but rather expose issues with the criteria used by TCEQ,” Morfey said. Morfey said Cox was in attendance along with two other representatives, however Cox could not be reached for comment before press time. Morfey said many took exception with Southwaste’s handling of its air scrubbers. “It appears they are unwilling to install those scrubbers before they receive the goahead for their variance request,” Morfey said. “I recall

them saying no matter what happens that they would install the scrubbers. My thinking is why not wait on the variance application and solve the odor problem before moving ahead with additional processing, but it doesn’t appear they’re interested in doing that.” Dave Dyer, another longtime resident of Timbergrove Manor, said that Southwaste’s plant may have fit in the community when it was primarily residential. However, now that the Heights has continued to see intense redevelopment and growth, he said it simply has no business being in the area. “They’re trying to get these permits and they’re poised to expand their volume but what the neighborhood really needs is for them to sell their land,” Dyer said. “That’s prime development property and once that property is sold all the land behind it becomes prime property too.” While there have been small victories for local residents, including nearby Grace Bible Church’s efforts to have Southwaste avoid operating

on Sundays, residents still feel they have an uphill battle that has endured for years. To date, over 500 comments have been submitted to TCEQ regarding the plant and its odor and traffic issues. However Morfey said it doesn’t appear the organization is taking into account

the many residents who have made complaints via the city’s 311 program. “The primary thing for our civic club will be opening dialogue with other clubs in the area,” Morfey said. “The general level of apathy TCEQ has directed towards the com-

plainants has generated a lot of head-scratching over if this governmental entity is truly looking out for us or just rubber stamping permits.” At the moment, TCEQ is preparing a response to comments for all comments received. The opportunity to

request a public hearing ends 30 days after the mailing date of TCEQ’s response to comments, according to a TCEQ spokesperson. The formal comment period on the permit amendment closed July 30.

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

SUDOKU

Europe from P. 1A greater understanding and appreciation for the world beyond the US. William said his son had already become good at traveling and once visited Abu Dhabi by himself to visit a friend who had moved there with his family. Roman said the exchange program in general offered great opportunities for students across the region. “The exchange program benefits Reagan High School because the majority of students are not acquainted with the history and culture of other countries,” Roman said. “While Antonio was a student at Reagan High School he could have written a book about all the questions he was asked about Europe and Germany. Having students from other countries in American schools helps students to be more knowledgeable about how people live elsewhere.” Traveling to 18 different cities in 10 countries has been an eye opening experience for both teens, and Roman remarked at the differences in Eastern Europe and Western Europe. “When Antonio and I traveled through Riga in Latvia,

Lviv in Ukraine, and Belgrade in Serbia we started to notice that these cities had a much less developed economy with more of a traditional culture,” Roman said. “The prices were mind-blowingly low. This was our best experience, because we could buy lots of food at the super market, which could cook a dinner for four people. The cost of an entire bag of groceries was 8 USD.” Roman was also reminded as to how others have struggled, and noted the homeless population in places like Greece. While William Dijak acknowledges that some of the difficulties in getting kids sponsored for entry into the US as exchange students comes down to money and other issues, the exposure such an experience grants to youngsters like Roman is priceless. “With respect to our students and schools, some of the kids here live in a bubble,” William Dijak said. “It’s all about understanding there is another world out there outside of America and to look at the bigger picture. All of these different cultures open your eyes.”

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1. Cleopatra’s viper 4. Cuneiform writing 10. Dekaliter 11. Groaned 12. For instance 14. Wave in spanish 15. Arabian gulf 16. Written in red 18. Denouncements 22. Eat one’s heart out 23. Survive longer than 24. Take priority over 26. Foreign service 27. Russian king (alt. sp.) 28. Stinkheads 30. Old name for Tokyo 31. Box (abbr.) 34. Red rock in Australia 36. Not old 37. Enlarge hole 39. Difficulty walking 40. The high point of something 41. 101 42. Hunting expeditions 48. Unusual appearing

ghostly figure 50. Without civilizing influences 51. Heartbeat 52. Morning juice 53. Wicket 54. Head louse egg 55. 40th state 56. Pleasing to the eye (Scot.) 58. Nickname for an anorexic 59. Engaged in a game 60. Household god (Roman)

dOwn

1. Admirer 2. Mouth secretion 3. Afterbirth 4. Initials of “Bullitt” star 5. Family crest 6. Forearm bone 7. Unable to move 8. Loss due to a rule infraction 9. Touchdown 12. Accordingly 13. Spiritual teacher 17. A bridal mouthpiece

19. Dress up garishly 20. Cleverly avoid 21. S.E. Asia goat antelope 25. Fla. state dessert 29. Popular legume 31. Two-die gambling game 32. Easily annoyed (alt. sp.) 33. Khoikhoin peoples 35. Cyclic 38. Flavor of Newport cigarettes 41. Jamestown was the 1st English 43. Fine meal made from cereal grain 44. Incarnation 45. Norse goddess of the sea 46. Ignores or snubs (slang) 47. Tiny glass bubble 49. Chinese mahogany genus 56. Deepwater Horizon Co. 57. -__, denotes past

WORD SCRAMBLE

Art Valet

By Mitch Cohen

Arts Columnist

Local artist works to be featured in Montrose eatery, Breakfast Klub Art? What art? Oh, right, this is an art column. To say I’m exhausted after the past weekend would be an understatement. We sure had fun and the art patrons of Houston came out in their finest white linen and enjoyed the shops, artists and music. I swear we’re all nuts for not moving the event to a cooler day, but tradition ‌ and if you just returned from Mars, I’m talking about White Linen Night. Look up last week’s column for more.

Contributed photo Featured artist Lauren Luna’s art work entitled Be Someone.

Now what is generally the first thought in my head upon waking Monday morning after that kind of activity, well, luckily I have an arsenal of artist friends to remind me. A fabulous painter, Lauren Luna, who has been focusing on cityscapes, is showing her latest at the very popular Breakfast Klub located in Midtown at 3711 Travis St. Keep an eye on her website (blog section) for reception dates www.artistaluna.com. Luna is an art teacher by day, and has been showing her art with me and at other popular art shows since relocating to Houston in 2011. Her most popular works are those iconic scenes we see all over town. Plus,

Breakfast Klub! Hello? Go. The newly formed Arts District has open studios for 2nd Saturday this weekend. I wrote about them a few weeks back in my column, talking about where all the Heights art is going. This is a great time to check it out and see what is coming here - drive around a bit and see the development. Green spaces, a brewery, restaurants and of course, more art studios. Artists take note, there is an open call for site specific installation at the Silos in most mediums! For details on open studios visit artsdistricthouston.com and the artist call: sitehouston.com. Opera in the Heights will be the star at Silver Street’s “2nd Saturday� 2-5 p.m., hosted by Michael Raak of Flashback Films Inc., to kick off Oh!’s 20th anniversary season. Although the focus is on opera, the event will also celebrate the visual arts, as Oh! shares the space with Foto Fest International and its exhibit “I Am A Camera,� along with open studios for the artists housed at Silver Street. Silver Street Studios is located at 2000 Edwards St., Houston, 77007. Call 713-861-5303 or 713-589-8650 for more details. I’ve got my bets on this one. Time to get your hands into the art and this weekend, Linda Wagner, an artist who uses antique wax seals to make new pieces of jewelry, will be among many others at the Pin It Expo Houston, this Saturday teaching various crafts that are popular pins on Pinterest. Now that is cool. This is Pinterest come to life in a la carte fashion and entrance and parking is free; just pay for the individual workshops. Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday at Marriott Waterway The Woodlands. Details online pinit.myshopify.com. Cohen is the founder and manager of First Saturday Arts Market. Contact him at ArtValet@gmail. com or visit him on the web at ArtValet.com.

Thirsty Explorer

Leader Nibbles

Familiar face at Sassafras rolls up in new venture By Christina Martinez christina@theleadernews.com If there’s something that you think of when you mention Sassafras, the word ‘steak’ usually comes to mind and the name Mike McElroy might ring a bell, too. Just this week, McElroy launched his own venture with the restauranteur group that is soon to bring The Union Kitchen to the neigh-

The Studewood restaurant at 1001 Studewood St., Black and White, has finally come to the finish line and hung their “Now Hiring� sign last month. According to their Facebook page, Black and White will be a contemporary restaurant of Mediterranean Fare and Seafood in the Heights. The restaurant allows for 200 seats, inside and out. The building has been occupied by several tenants and has a hard time keeping one. The Heights restaurant has sparingly posted on their Facebook page with updates, but gives promise to one eager follower that they “are now rehearsing and fine tuning everything�, as of July 27. I think we have a soft opening on the horizon this month.

If you were brave enough to roam the streets of the Heights last weekend, I’m sure you heard talk of beer flowing at the new Heights brewery, Town In City. Or you heard talk of “what’s that blue building on Calvacade that’s serving beer?� Probably the second. Town In City timed their grand opening with White Linen this past weekend and if you weren’t in attendance, the brewery threw a great party. When I arrived at sunset, the brewery parking lot was jam packed with red solo cups of TIC beer, surrounding a local Houston act, Moji. This three-piece indie band has powerful vocals and a strong guitarist and drums. Needless to say, Moji rocked for Town In City and the crowd loved them. White Linen goers were able to hear an up and coming Houston act that everyone should get to know. Check out their first EP ‘Desert Son’ at www.cdbaby.com/cd/moji1 and hear it at 7 p.m.,Thursday, Aug. 6, at The Nightingale Room located at 308 Main St. Following the Heights party, Town In City will celebrate National IPA Day this Thursday, Aug. 6, with their White Linen Wheat IPA and Chipped Tooth IPA. The brewery will also have the first production batch of Mosquito’s Revenge, a three malt rye pale ale. The Taproom is open 3 - 10 p.m. at 1125 Calvacade.

In May, a new business joined the Washington corridor, B&B Butchers and restaurant. At the front of the house, you can find a New York style butcher with a fine dining restaurant attached. You can find all of your delicate cuts, but be ready to spend, with most cuts starting at $14.99 per pound, going on up. You can also order from the butcher menu and find deli favorites. “We are bringing back many of the old-fashFacebook photo ioned steakhouse The B&B Bone in Chopped menu items with Steak that is served during a unique twist, as lunch and dinner hours. well as contemporary favorites paired with rotating, seasonal sides,� owner Benjamin Berg boldy states on the website of his Steakhouse restaurant. The New York steakhouse is doing it big on Washington, price included. Have a tip for Nibbles? Email christina@theleadernews.com

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Since we’re on the beer and music track, venture downtown on Saturday to 8th Wonder Brewery to celebrate the play on numbers date 0808. The downtown brewery will host the Second Lovers from Houston and Potbelly from Cypress, along with a surprise guest who has yet to be announced. Admission is free and the brewery will be releasing their Astroturf Amarillo Dry-Hopped Cream Ale. 8th Wonder is located at 2202 Dallas St. 77003. Email christina@theleadernews.com and follow on twitter @ThirstyExplorer

Photo by Christina Martinez Artist of the night at Town In City Brewing’s grand opening, was a Houston act, Moji.

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borhood, Gr8 Plate Hospitality. McElroy debuted their latest project, The Rolling Kitchen, on Monday night at the old spot, Sassafras. The logo of the truck displays the name, as well as the Fork and Knife that can be seen in the logos of on The Union Kitchen and Paul’s Kitchen, along with their phrase “eat real food.� Real food is exactly what McElroy has planned and says that this menu is made from his heart from the time he spent in New Orleans. “This is my take on my favorite local New Orleans classics that I am bringing to Houston,� McElroy said. Sassafras posted a photo on their Facebook upon the truck’s arrival, along with a photo of the soft opening menu. The menu offers Boudin Balls, Shrimp Etouffee, French Fry Poboy - with meat options, including a Smoked, fried short rib Poboy, Muffaletta, a Cajun burger and a chopped salad. McElroy’s menu has changed from steaks to a Cajun cuisine and his loyal foodie followers will be happy to know that McElroy says he’s coming back strong and with more than just a barbecue pit. You can catch McElroy and The Rolling Kitchen in the neighborhood on Monday’s

Black and White restaurant in the Heights soon-to-open

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Facebook photo Gr8 Plate Hospitality and Mike McElroy’s newest venture, The Rolling Kitchen.

and Friday’s at Sassarfas at 5022 Pinemont Dr. 77092. Stay tuned for more.

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Town In City Brewing grand opening during White Linen: a Celebration, party

8th Wonder Brewery concert downtown

Contributed photo Lauren Luna and her art will be featured at the Montrose eatery, Breakast Klub at 3711 Travis St.

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Saturday, August 8, 2015 • Page 7A

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American Legion Post 560 to host new ‘Family Fun Day’ for local residents

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computer,� she said. “We must ensure that our systems and curriculum are meeting the advanced needs of our children. The district does a great job in keeping the curriculum updated and allowing teachers the autonomy to differentiate based on their student’s needs. At Oak Forest, I want to make sure that technology is something we embrace as a campus and in every classroom. As for additional plans in the coming year, Williams plans to listen and learn. “There are definitely some great things going on,� Williams said. “My hope is that once school gets started and the kids are engaged in learning, I will have the opportunity to see anything that needs tweaking or improvement.�

In the Heights • 18 mo - 6 years

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Teacher of the Year awards. “I feel like coming back to elementary is like coming home - it is my foundation and a comfortable place for me,� said Williams, when asked why she was a good fit for the Oak Forest campus. “But more importantly, I am a hard worker, I value teachers because I remember what it is like to be a teacher, and I understand parents, because I am one.� A native Houstonian, she is the mother of four children. “Three girls and finally my husband and I got our boy,� she joked. Williams names technology as an ever-changing hurdle facing educators today. Our students come to us in Pre-K already knowing how to use an IPad/tablet, a Smart phone and sometimes even a

SPANISH for KIDS Register NOW for Fall classes

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Principal from P. 1A

and more. With this outreach, we hope to let our area’s younger vets know that we are here to serve them too.� The need is certainly there. According the “Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America,� young veterans’ challenges after service are daunting. Often these men and women have difficulty re-assimilating. In a survey presented to veterans by I&AVA, one-third of respondents said they had considered suicide. A slightly larger percentage said they knew a vet who had committed suicide, and two-thirds state they have veteran friends who need mental health counseling. Post 560 is addressing this issue. The festival will include information booths from some local non-profit organizations - many dedicated directly to the needs of the young vet.

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Since 1946, American Legion Post 560 located at 3720 Alba St. in Garden Oaks has been an active member of the local community. First, second, third and fourth generation neighborhood veterans have enjoyed the endless friendship and support services offered to veterans and their families. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 15 Post 560 is doing it again. A veritable army of volunteers is hosting a party at the post for families with its “Family Fun Day,� and all in The Leader’s readership are invited. Party-goers will speed down an 18-foot water slide, laugh at the dunking tank (or take the plunge), defy gravity in the bounce house, challenge their skills in a kid-approved obstacle course and more. In addition, there will be animal demonstrations, adoptable pets, a firetruck from the Houston Fire Department and officers from the Houston Police Department on hand. Come hungry - hamburgers, hot dogs, sno-cones and popcorn will be served, while face-painters, balloon artists and canine handlers entertain.

For many children, this is the last weekend before the start of school. There is no admission charge, however, tickets cost $10 per child for lunch and unlimited rides or play on the amusements. This small fee is to off-set expenses as there is no profit. (In fact, several post members have committed, not only a sizable chunk of time, but written a personal check.) “We view this event as community outreach,� American Legion Post 560 Commander Richard Voorhies said. “We’re looking for new members, particularly veterans from post 9-11 service. These men and women often have young families. In fact, the American Legion has a lot to offer veterans and their a families, no matter what their age.� “This kind of event is also in keeping with the American Legion’s mission,� said veteran Charles Powers. “Of all the Veteran’s Service Organizations, the legion maintains the most activity in the community. Yes, we are an organization of vets helping vets, but we are also active in a broader sense through our support of the local boy scouts, baseball teams, the donation of parks

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For The Leader

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By Kim Hogstrom

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