On Feb. 11, local officials, developers, and community members gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of Lost Oaks, a 78-unit affordable housing community in northwest Houston. Designed to provide safe, stable, and energyefficient housing, the five-story, elevator-served building will serve families earning 60% or below the area median income. The development aims to address Houston’s ongoing need for high-quality, af-
fordable housing while fostering long-term community stability.
A Collaborative Effort to Expand Affordable Housing
The $25.9 million project is the result of a partnership between multiple organizations dedicated to improving housing accessibility in Harris County. The MarkDana Corporation spearheaded the development, with $3.1 million in funding from the Harris County Housing and Community Development Department through the American Rescue
Plan Act (ARPA). Additional financial support came from the Harris County Housing Finance Corporation, which serves as the general partner and landowner, as well as Stellar Bank, the project’s construction lender.
“We are proud to be a part of the Harris County and Harris County Housing Finance Corporation efforts to build affordable and quality housing to help improve the quality of life for residents in Central Northwest Houston,” said David Mark Koogler, President and CEO
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
The Houston Heights Association (HHA) has announced the recipients of its 2025 Community Improvement Awards, recognizing projects that have made a significant visual, environmental, and economic impact on the Heights neighborhood. The awards, presented annually, honor both residential and commercial properties that enhance the character and vibrancy of the Heights through renovation and new construction.
Projects were eligible if completed between 2022 and 2024 and were judged based on their architectural contributions, compatibility with the neighborhood, and overall improvement to the community. The Heights Association’s selection committee focused on properties that answer the question: “Which building have you seen that makes the Houston Heights an even
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
Grace United Methodist Church in the Heights, affectionately known as Grace in the Heights, is marking a significant milestone this year, celebrating 120 years of service, fellowship, and dedication to the Houston Heights community. Since its founding in 1905, the church has been a place of worship, education, and outreach, evolving alongside the neighborhood it serves while staying true to
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
better place than it was before?”
This year’s winners, spanning four categories, reflect a blend of preservation and innovation, celebrating the past while embracing the future of the neighborhood.
Commercial Renovation
Winner: Heights Studewood Pharmacy
The Heights Studewood Pharmacy,
its mission of faith and inclusivity.
A Rich History Rooted in the Heights
Rev. Kate Walker, Pastor of Grace Church, shared the church’s historical journey, which began with a small gathering of women at 1416 Heights Blvd.
“They became the Home Missionary Society of Houston Heights and the founding group of what would become Grace in the Heights United Methodist Church,” Walker said.
a local mom-and-pop shop on 11th Street, received top honors in the Commercial Renovation category. This independent pharmacy took an older, outdated building and transformed it into a welcoming, beautifully restored space, emphasizing both customer service and community connection. The thoughtful renova-
Over the years, the congregation met in various locations, including a skating rink, the Harvard School, Houston Heights City Hall (now the Historic Fire Station), and eventually settled at the corner of 13th and Heights Blvd. In fact, you can still find the old horse tie rings along 13th Street, silent reminders of a bygone era when horses were the primary mode of transportation. These small but enduring details serve as a testimony
Starting Tuesday, Feb. 11, Houston Public Works contractors began the partial demolition of the MKT Hogan Street Pedestrian Bridge, requiring a temporary closure of the White Oak Bayou Greenway Trail beneath the bridge. The work is expected to last two weeks, after which the trail will temporarily reopen until permanent repairs or a replacement project begins.
The bridge was officially closed on Feb. 4 due to severe structural damage that posed safety concerns. City officials say they are working to expedite the repair process and will provide updates once a timeline for permanent reconstruction is established.
Detour Routes for Trail Users Trail users traveling between the Heights and Downtown will need to follow alternate routes while the section beneath the bridge remains closed. Detour maps have been provided to guide pedestrians and cyclists safely around the affected area.
For those traveling from the Heights to Downtown, a recommended route includes using the White Oak Greenway Trail eastward through Stude Park, then crossing Houston Avenue and following Quitman Street under I-45. From there, pedestrians can take Main Street south, pass through the tunnel, and reconnect with the White Oak Greenway Trail via Naylor Street near the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) campus.
For those traveling from Downtown toward the Heights, the reverse detour applies, taking Naylor Street west through the UHD campus, then using Main Street, Quitman Street, and Houston Avenue before rejoining the MKT Hike & Bike Trail.
Cyclists-Only Alternative Route Due to missing sidewalk segments, a separate detour has been outlined for cyclists. This includes using Studemont Street and the I-10 feeder road, then transitioning onto the MKT Hike & Bike Trail at Silver Street. Riders will then follow a designat-
tion preserves the character of the Heights while providing essential health services to local residents.
Address: 512 E 11th St, Bldg A, Houston, TX 77008
Owner: Omar and Elizabeth Serna
Architect: Brett Zamore Design
Builder: Clan Rayo Construction Year of Completion: 2024
As described by nominator(s):
“Dilapidated - But now, it’s adorable”; “The Heights is fortunate to have a mom-andpop pharmacy right in the middle of our community. They have elevated a vacant building that provides a much-needed service. The husband-and-wife pharmacist team are also friendly and caring, and they take great pride in the work they did to renovate an existing structure.”
Commercial New Construction
Winner: Kido International Preschool and Daycare
The Commercial New Construction award went to Kido International Preschool and Daycare, a much-needed addition to the neighborhood. The project replaced an abandoned strip center with a modern, state-of-the-art daycare facility, meeting the growing demand for quality early childhood education in the Heights. Kido has quickly earned a reputation for excellence, providing a nurturing environment for the youngest members of the community and helping families thrive.
Address: 1307 Yale Street
Owner: Kido International Preschool
Year of Completion: 2023
As described by nominator(s): “Turned a crummy old strip center with a smoke shop that drew car chases with guns into a much needed child care facility for our growing family-driven neighborhood!”
Residential Renovation Winner: 723 W. 12th Street
Dan and Lara Purser, the owners of 723 W. 12th Street, were honored in the Residential Renovation category for their work in transforming a small, overgrown bungalow into a sleek, modern home while preserving its original charm. Located along the Heights Hike and Bike Trail, the home blends contemporary elements with large, open windows and a gallery-like aesthetic, offering thoughtfully placed landscaping that enhances the surrounding streetscape.
Address: 723 W 12th St
Owner: Dan and Lara Purser
Architect/Builder: Unknown
Year of Completion: 2023
As described by nominator(s): “Eccentric old building..... had been residential and commercial. New owners kept original bones and transformed them into a modern, stunning structure.”
Residential New Construction Winner: 838 Allston Street
Designed by Cea-Loveless Design + Build, the striking 838 Allston Street took home the award for Residential New Construction. Owners Rob and Ashlee Abasolo worked with the design team to create a modern architectural masterpiece while ensuring minimal impact on the property’s natural landscape. Two majestic oak trees at the front of the home remain untouched, seamlessly integrating the new construction with the neighborhood’s natural beauty. The home’s bold design adds a modern glow to the Heights while respecting its historic character.
Address: 838 Allston
Owner: Rob & Ashlee Abasolo
the County’s annual demand for housing.”
of Mark-Dana Corporation.
The project is part of a broader effort to close the gap in Houston’s affordable housing market, where an estimated 20,000 additional affordable units are needed annually.
“High-quality, long-term affordable housing for Harris County families is critical for thriving communities and supports housing stability in northwest Houston,” said Rene Martinez, Executive Director of the Harris County Housing Finance Corporation.
“The Lost Oaks Apartments is an important development that will contribute to filling
Features Designed for Community and Comfort
Lost Oaks is being built on a 1.7-acre site surrounded by shopping centers, restaurants, banks, pharmacies, medical offices, and places of worship, ensuring residents have easy access to essential services.
The apartment community will meet ICC-700 National Green Building Standard –Bronze Level requirements, incorporating modern energyefficient designs. Each unit will feature nine-foot ceilings, washer/dryer hookups, ceil-
Builder/Design: Cea-Loveless Design + Build
Year of Completion: 2024
As described by nominator(s): “Vacant lot with two magnificent trees.”
Preserving the Heights’ Character While Embracing Progress
The 2025 Community Improvement Award winners showcase the Heights’ dedication to preserving history, fostering innovation, and improving quality of life for residents. From restored mom-and-pop businesses to modern, sustainable homes, these projects reflect a commitment to keeping the Heights a vibrant, welcoming, and architecturally rich community.
For more information on the Houston Heights Association and its annual awards, visit houstonheights.org.
ing fans in living areas and bedrooms, and private patios or balconies depending on the floor level.
In addition to the residential units, the development will provide amenities to foster a strong sense of community, including:
• A clubhouse and community center
• A business center
• A fitness center
A laundry facility
A swimming pool and outdoor grill area
Perimeter fencing with controlled access gates for added security
These shared spaces aim to create gathering points where
families and neighbors can connect in meaningful ways.
Looking Ahead With construction now underway, Lost Oaks is on schedule to be completed by May 2026. The project represents a significant investment in the future of affordable housing in Harris County, ensuring more families can access stable, high-quality living conditions. The Mark-Dana Corporation owns several other multi-family properties in the Houston area, including Caroline Lofts at 2515 Caroline St., Eado Lofts at 3448 Coyle St., and Fulton Lofts at 5451 Fulton St.
New Construction Winner: Kido International Preschool and Daycare
Eat Drink HTX launches Feb. 15 with new charity partner, Kids’ Meals
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The fourth annual Eat Drink HTX, sister event to Houston Restaurant Weeks (HRW) produced by The Cleverley Stone Foundation is ready to kick off this Saturday.
Diners can visit EatDrinkHTX.com to view a list of participants and their menus, with additional restaurants and menus to be added to the website through event launch Feb. 15. The two-weeklong dining event, Eat Drink HTX has been developed for the casual dining category, with a lower price point set for prix fixe brunch, lunch, and dinner menus, allowing more casual and fast-casual eateries the opportunity to participate.
The event is founder Cleverley Stone’s second pillar for fundraising in partnership with area restaurants. She had long recognized the need to boost sales in restaurants during historically slow periods for area restaurants; specifically, weeks in February, after Valentine’s Day, and early spring. Proceeds will support the Houston Food Bank and Oak ForestGarden Oaks-based Kids’ Meals, providing nutritious meals to preschool-aged children in need and enhancing their overall well-being across Texas.
Early participants and returning restaurants include 7 Spice Cajun - All Locations,
Compiled
by
STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
Feb. 16: Local Foods
- Houston Heights Celebrates 7th Anniversary
On Sunday, Feb. 16, Local Foods – Houston Heights will celebrate its 7th anniversary by giving back to customers. The wildly popular, local ingredient-centric restaurant founded by Benjy Levit and Dylan Murray in 2011 will commemorate the anniversary of the Heights location, which opened in 2018, with its new specialty cocktails priced at $7 (regularly $13) and complimentary strawberry powder-dusted lemon bars with any purchase at the Heights location that day, while supplies last. Local Foods Group Director of Bars Máté Hartai recently added four approachable cocktails to the locations’ diverse beverage offerings: Argyle – small batch vodka, cherry almond syrup (sweet and tart cherries, almond)
• Chevron – London dry gin, green goddess syrup (sugar, tarragon, mint, basil)
• Milton’s Old Fashioned – Bonded bourbon, bitters, vanilla, maple Cocktails can be enjoyed individually or as a flight of four for $24. Local Foods – Houston Heights anchors Heights Mercantile, employs nearly 50 Houstonians and serves thousands of guests weekly for lunch, dinner, and brunch
Adair Kitchen San Felipe, Adair Kitchen West U, Astor Farm to Table, BB Lemon, Cowboys and Indians, Da Gama Canteen, Fadi’s Mediterranean Grill - All Locations, Hughie’s on 18th, Hughie’s on Main Street, Kin Dee Thai Cuisine, Kriti Kitchen, Mala SichuanAll Locations (recent Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient), Mean Grille, MKT Bar at Phoenicia Foods, Oporto, Phat Eatery Katy, Reel Luxury Cinema, Rim Tanon, State Fare - All Locations, and new participants are EaDough,
on Fridays–Sundays from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
WHERE: 714 Yale St, Suite 1a, Houston, TX 77007
INFO: www.localfoodstexas.com
Feb. 16: Plume Debuts Sunday Brunch with Luxe Sunday Affair
To celebrate the launch of its new brunch menu available every Sunday, Plume in The Heights is hosting An Unscripted Sunday Affair – a high-energy, stylish brunch experience featuring live music, bottle specials, Bloody Mary Bar, signature cocktails, and a new food menu this Sunday, Feb. 16.
From 1-5 p.m., attendees can enjoy $65 Bottles of Veuve, Live DJ & Dancers, a variety of frozen margaritas, Bloody Mary Bar, and $10 Martinis. Be among the first to try the new brunch menu with soon-to-be-favorites like Eggs Benedict with Toasted Brioche and Smoked Honey Ham, Cheddar Gruyere and Prosciutto Flatbread with an option to add egg, a scrumptious Quiche, and more.
The cocktail lounge will remain open until midnight for those who want to continue their Sunday Funday. This event is open to the public to attend. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For more information or to reserve a table, visit ToastTable
What: An Unscripted Sunday Affair
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 16, 1-5 p.m.
WHERE: 1100 W 23rd Street, Suite 150 Houston, TX 77008
INFO: www.plumehtx.com
RESERVATIONS: https:// tinyurl.com/54m2kssx
Gristworkz, Honey Drizzle, Mi Cocina, Noon Mirch, Phat Eatery The Woodlands, Rado Market, Real Agave, Star Cinema Grill, The Fry Guys, The Sylvie, The Tipsy Tavern, Traveler's Cart, and more.
“Being part of Eat Drink HTX 2025 is an amazing opportunity to turn the joy of dining out into hope for hungry children,” said Beth Braniff Harp, chief executive officer of Kids’ Meals. “Kids’ Meals is deeply thankful for the support from participating restaurants and diners,
Feb. 22/23: Toast & Taste at Mutiny Wine Room
Mutiny Wine Room is hosting a flavorful weekend with two unique experiences back-to-back. On Saturday Feb. 22, guests will explore the bold and complex wines of Piedmont with winemaker
Mark Ellenberger, followed by a live-fire Paella Sunday on Feb. 23 where Chef Eduardo Alcayaga will prepare his signature paella on the patio.
Winter Winemaker
Series No. 1: Piedmont
Hosted by co-owner and Kagan Cellars winemaker
Mark Ellenberger, this guided tasting delves into the famed Piedmont region of Italy. Guests will explore Barolo, Barbaresco, Asti, and Alba through a curated selection of wines, paired with small bites from Chef Eduardo Alcayaga.
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
COST: $94 per person
REGISTRATION: https:// tinyurl.com/ycxt98md
Paella Sunday
A live-fire culinary event, Paella Sunday brings the flavors of Spain to Mutiny’s patio. Chef Eduardo will prepare his famous seasonal paella in an interactive outdoor setting, with wine and appetizers available before the main course. Seatings are available at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6:30 p.m.
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 23
COST: $38 per person, with optional wine pairing for $15 by the glass or $56 by the bottle
whose generosity will help us continue to feed preschoolers in Houston and build brighter futures.”
“I am thrilled to announce Kids' Meals as a 2025 beneficiary of Eat Drink HTX,” said Katie Stone, president of the Cleverley Stone Foundation.
“Their dedication to ending childhood hunger by providing free, healthy meals to preschool-aged children is truly inspiring. As someone passionate about supporting children and families in our community, I am confident
that their impact will continue to change lives and bring hope to those who need it most.”
Similar to HRW, participating restaurants will make donations based on their sales.
MEAL PRICES
RESTAURANT DONATION PER MEAL SOLD
$25 -- $3 donated
$15 -- $1 donated Brunch $15 -- $1 donated
“Eat Drink HTX has strengthened our mission of providing food for better lives, and this year, it will also am-
plify the outstanding work of Kids’ Meals,” said Brian Greene, president/CEO of Houston Food Bank. “Funds raised through this event will nourish children and families in our community. We are thankful to The Cleverley Stone Foundation and to all who will participate in Eat Drink HTX for their incredible generosity and commitment to making a difference.” You eat out anyway. Check eatdrinkhtx.com for partici-
Room, 1124 Usener Street, Houston, TX 77009
Saint Arnold Beer
Garden & Restaurant
Unveils Hugo’s Mexican Hot Chocolate Stout
Saint Arnold Brewing Company has announced the return of Hugo’s Mexican Hot Chocolate Stout, a limited-edition, small-batch beer brewed in collaboration with celebrated James Beard Awardwinning Houston Chef Hugo Ortega. This indulgent stout will be available exclusively at
the Saint Arnold Beer Garden & Restaurant, marking the second release of this rich and flavorful brew. Crafted with Chef Ortega’s housemade Mexican chocolate, Hugo’s Mexican Hot Chocolate Stout delivers a decadent flavor profile that blends the depth of chocolate with a hint of spice. The beer features a dominant chocolate flavor with subtle notes of toffee, stone fruit and
Photo by Carla Gomez
7th anniversary
Photo by Jordan Nguyen
Plume in the Heights debuts its new brunch menu
Photo by Becca Wright
Mutiny Wine Room presents Paella Sunday
THE TV -- “Thousands of Houstonians joined people across the nation in protest against President Donald Trump’s anti-immigration executive orders, marching, shouting ‘si, se puede,’ — ‘yes, you can.’ Protesters carried various central and south American flags.” Wait! Hold it! No way, Jose. (Pronounced, I think, JOE-see.) Because all of this seems a bit, well, con tradictory. The demonstrators are apparently undocumented immigrants and their sup porters who are demanding (demanding?) that they be allowed to stay in the U.S. illegally, while chanting in Spanish and waving flags from Guatemala, Mexico and other countries south of the razor wire. Wouldn’t they curry more sympathy among their hosts if the demonstrators waved the Stars and Stripes while singing “God Bless America” or maybe “Don’t Fence Me Out?”
THE TOPICS. Bordering
Lynn Ashby Columnist
We can all agree that today the U.S. has lots of (take your pick) illegal aliens, undocumented immigrants or foreign border jumpers. But let’s not parrot our new leader, Agent Orange, calling them murderers, rapists and terrorists. Ah, but how many are there?
maybe 30 million.” Fox News estimated 8 trillion. For an official number, the feds put the count at about 11 million, but that’s a guess. It’s like saying, “This is the count of those we didn’t count.” Huh? The U.S.-Mexico border is 1,954 miles. Of that, Texas has the lion’s share: 1,254 miles. To defend our section, Gov. Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star has spent $11 billion in taxpayers’ money, and the current Texas Legislature has earmarked another $6.5 billion. Uh, Guv, can we discuss our school teachers’ pay? Gov. Abbott hopes Trump will reimburse us. Don’t count on it. Still, the President has dispatched active-duty troops, in-
cluding Marines, to the border -- not to arrest the interlopers but to only render “logistic aid.” Maybe the Marines will keep sheaths on their bayonets. And Trump has vowed to finish the wall. It’s 20 feet high, but remember the old joke: There is a run in Matamoras for 21-foot ladders. On the other hand, the debate in Mexico over Roe v. Wade is how best to cross the Rio. Throughout his presidential campaign, Trump said, and with total accuracy, that the Biden administration let too many undocumented immigrants come in. But also to be totally accurate, no Dem ever promoted “open borders.” Name one. That accusation was trotted out enough times by the GOPers that some gullible low IQs believed it. Yet at the same time the Biden White House kept telling us “the border is secure,” when God and NBC showed us, night after night, scores if not hundreds of immigrants swarming across the Rio. A mystery: Joe Biden was a career pol who, over the years, figured out what the voters wanted (although it took him three attempts to win the Presidency). So how could he and the other Dem leaders have been so
tone deaf to ignore what the rest of us worried about? It helped cost them the election. We shouldn’t feel guilty about our immigration policies. The U.S. welcomes the largest number of immigrants in the world, and many of them obey our laws by becoming legal permanent residents, seeking humanitarian protection or becoming U.S. citizens. I really like to see those TV shots of welcoming new citizens, and there are a lot of them. In fiscal year 2024, we welcomed 818,500 new citizens during naturalization ceremonies held across the U.S. and around the world. The 3-year total was more than 2.6 million new citizens. So stop with the guilt trip, OK?
The newcomers have to go through a lot of hoops to join us. The ceremony is often held in a judge’s chamber where the judge makes a welcoming speech, they swear their allegiance and wave little American flags. To the side are their smiling relatives, all thinking the same thing: “Now we can stay.” In my somewhat checkered career as a journalist I have visited U.S. embassies and consulates all over the world and often would see lines of wannabe Americans
standing in the snow in Warsaw or the suffocating heat in Lima, holding their tattered documents, hoping to come here legally, and wondering: “Why am I going to all this trouble when my cousin just climbed the river bank, found a Border Patrol agent and sought asylum? He’s now driving an Uber in Waco.”
As for those who took the express line here (six relatives or less), join the crowd. Texas has the second-highest undocumented population in the U.S. behind California. As of July 2024, there were about 1.6 million of them in our state. Over 448,000 criminal noncitizens -- of all legality -were booked into local Texas jails between June 1, 2011, and Dec. 31, 2024, with over 319,000 classified as being here illegally.
You probably run into illegals daily. Houston has some 407,000. Fort Bend County another 39,000. About half of them are on track to be eligible to stay with work permits, but that pathway may change any hour now. My housekeeper comes occasionally to hose down the kitchen. BettySue is from Honduras with a Social Security card, pays taxes and obviously is legal because she
comes and goes back home to visit her mother. BettySue has one son who is a graduate of UT-Austin in construction engineering. Another son is at Texas A&M studying bio-something. The American dream. She showed me a photo of her family of about 20 celebrating a birthday. “Back in Honduras?” I asked. “No, in Houston.” Then I had a carpenter who said he was from Guatemala. He came here on a two-year work permit. That was 22 years ago. The bronze plaque on the base of the Statue of Liberty should read: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. Just get in
to the rich history of Grace Church and the Heights community, preserving a connection to the past even as the neighborhood continues to grow and change.
The church has hosted worship in many styles and two languages. It has been a hub for families, youth, and seniors. Originally named Heights Methodist Episcopal Church, it was later renamed Grace Methodist Church in 1950 and became Grace United Methodist in 1968 following the Methodist/United Brethren merger. Throughout its history, the church has expanded its ministries, welcoming its first female pastor in 1992, launching a food pantry that has served the community for over 40 years, and opening the Grace Weekday School in 2017.
“Over the last 120 years, much has changed for the church, but its heart for the community remains constant,” Walker emphasized.
Grace Church’s commitment to serving the Heights is evident in its wide range of ministries and partnerships. The church hosts several community organizations, including Acton Academy Heights which serves elementary aged students, and Language Kids World which offers language immersion camps for students all over the city. The church’s longstanding food pantry continues to provide for local families, serving more than 1,000 families in the past year alone.
In the 90s and early 2000s, Grace piloted a partnership program for churches and recovery groups. Over the years, hundreds of people have found support and healing through meetings at Grace. Today they host four recovery communities: New Heights
ed route through Washington Avenue, N. Memorial Way, and Buffalo Bayou to reach Downtown.
Houston Public Works is committed to ensuring public safety while addressing necessary infrastructure improvements. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, follow detour signs, and stay updated on the progress of repairs. The City will continue to provide updates on the permanent bridge replacement timeline as more details become available. For more information, visit houstonpublicworks.org/ important-pedestrian-bridgeclosure-information.
NA, Women with Purpose AA, Ala-teen group, and a DAA group -- Drug Addicts Anonymous, a 12-step recovery program designed to help individuals struggling with drug addiction.
“Much of our current emphasis is on children and families,” Walker said. “We offer Grace Weekday school and parent nights out. Once a month we lead Messy Church, which is an opportunity for children and parents to hear stories, sing songs and do crafts and games. Several times during the year we partner with schools to provide for children in need.”
“We always have our doors open to all who seek the ‘Good News of Jesus!’” said Leonor Hernandez, Director of Family Ministries. She emphasized that the church offers a welcoming environment for people of all ages, from Sunday School and Vacation Bible School for children to senior luncheons and service projects. “If you are looking for service opportunities, Grace is your place! We do school supply drives, Angel Tree, Thanksgiving boxes, food drives, workdays, cards for the troops, visiting area senior centers, and Christmas caroling—to name a few!”
Hernandez also noted that the church continuously seeks ways to engage with the Heights community by hosting events such as the annual pumpkin patch, movie nights, and festivals.
“We believe that neighborhoods are like forests,” Walker said. “When one tree thrives, we all thrive together.”
As Grace Church celebrates this remarkable anniversary, Walker reflected on the church’s mission moving forward.
“Grace is here in the Heights and for the Heights. We are a place where all are
welcome. In an age of loneliness and division, we are exactly the kind of community many people need,” she said. The church operates with three core values: Family by Choice, Neighbors by Call, and a Legacy for the Future.
“By design, our community is intimate, supportive, and intergenerational,” Walker explained. “We are not afraid to be vulnerable, have difficult conversations, and learn from one another. We seek to be a strong and supportive partner so the whole Heights community can continue to grow as a vibrant neighborhood.”
As the church looks ahead, its commitment to worship, education, and service remains steadfast. Hernandez echoed this sentiment, encouraging new visitors to join in and experience the welcoming atmosphere of Grace Church.
“These stories are our past, we are the present, and you
are the future,” she said. “We hope that you will come and experience the love of God at Grace.” Grace Church in the Heights is located at 1245 Heights Blvd. Catch their live stream at https://graceintheheights.online.church/ and follow them on Facebook @ GraceInTheHeights. Mark your calendars for June 7 and 8 when Grace will celebrate its 120th anniversary with a festival, including a one-night museum on Saturday and a special worship on Sunday.
Service Information: Worship Services: Sundays at 11 a.m.
Sunday School: Sundays at 10 a.m.
• Food Pantry: Thursdays, 2-4 p.m.
• Weekday School: MondayFriday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
For more information, call 713-862-8883 or visit graceintheheights.org.
Girl Scout Cookies Now on Sale: Cookie creations take center stage at Just Desserts event
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The wait is over! It’s time to stock up on your favorite Girl Scout Cookies! The Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council (GSSJC), which serves the Houston Heights/Garden Oaks/Oak Forest area, has launched the 2025 Girl Scout Cookie Program, bringing delicious treats and an entrepreneurial spirit to the greater Houston area.
The cookie season, which started on Feb. 8, kicked off with GSSJC’s Just Desserts event on Feb. 5. The highly anticipated event is a delectable dessert competition where eight of Houston’s top chefs whipped up mouthwatering treats inspired by beloved Girl Scout Cookies. With the help of local Girl Scouts, chefs transformed classic cookie flavors into stunning desserts. Then a panel of media personalities, TV and radio hosts, and influencers judged the desserts.
“One of the most amazing parts of being a Girl Scout is participating in programs and
activities that help us grow into confident leaders,” said Emma, a Girl Scout Cadette and opening speaker at Just Desserts.
“These experiences are invaluable as we discover who we are and who we want to become as young adults and community members.”
The event’s winners were:
Most Creative Recipe: Cake Fine Pastry
• Best Use of Cookie: GUD
Sugar Best Dessert Presentation: Phoenicia Specialty Foods • Best Chocolate Lovers: Kenny & Ziggy’s Celebrity Judges' Favorite: The Cheesecake Queen • Girl Judges' Favorite: Lexi
Coffee
• Best Just Desserts Rookie: The House of Sweets & Treats
People’s Choice Award: HTX Nitro
Girl Scouts began online and door-to-door orders on Feb. 8 and cookie fanatics can expect to find booths in their communities starting on Feb.
Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 2 wins Crown Communities Award for Eviction Diversion Initiative
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 2 recently received a Crown Communities Award for their Eviction Diversion Initiative (EDI). The program was one of six selected by the editorial staff of American City & County as the best 2024 community projects in the country.
Judge Steve Duble,
Judge Steve Duble established the EDI program to create court processes that provide landlords and tenants with the time, information, and resources necessary to resolve their housing disputes while mitigating harm. The program transformed the court into a point of connection to a wide range of legal and supportive services. It seeks to prevent unnecessary evictions, facilitate connections to key resources, minimize the harm and trauma of evictions, help prevent future ones, and bring about just resolutions where parties are heard and respected. The primary funding for the program came from a grant from the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) awarded in the fall of 2023 with additional funding awarded in 2025.
The Court’s Eviction Diversion Facilitator, Loreta Kovacic, contacts defendants and connects litigants to legal aid, rental assistance, and other social services that can help resolve immediate issues as well as the underlying problems that may have led to the eviction filing. She also works with individuals after a decision in their case to help connect them with employment resources and other social services to help with any immediate housing needs and to improve their long-term housing stability.
Since the inception of the Court’s EDI program, there has been a 44% decrease in default judgements.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this award,” said Judge Duble, “but more importantly, we are excited to see this work recognized on a national level so other courts, not just in Texas but also throughout the country, can build on what we are developing here."
14. Houston-area residents can purchase their favorite Girl Scout Cookies, including Adventurefuls®, Toast-Yay!®, Lemonades®, Trefoils®, Thin Mints®, Peanut Butter Patties®, Caramel deLites®, Peanut Butter Sandwich, and Caramel Chocolate Chip.
“When a girl sells Girl Scout Cookies, she gains valuable skills and earns money to help her troop take on their next challenge,” said Mary Vitek, CEO of GSSJC. “Besides helping the troop, all the money from the Girl Scout Cookie Program stays in our local community and helps Girl Scouting thrive for tens of thousands of girls.”
The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the world’s largest girl-led business and financial literacy program, empowering Girl Scouts as entrepreneurs since 1917. Through the cookie program, Girl Scouts learn invaluable skills such as goal setting, decision-making, money management, people skills, and business ethics. Proceeds from the program support troop activities like maintaining camp properties and help make Girl
Scout experiences accessible to all girls through financial aid to underserved communities.
Quick Cookie Facts:
• GSSJC is the second largest Girl Scout council in the country, serving more than 39,000 girls in 26 counties.
• All cookies are priced at $6
per package.
• Cookies come in 12 packages per case.
• A toast to Toast-Yay! This cookie will retire after the program.
• Caramel Chocolate Chip Gluten-Free Cookies are sold exclusively online.
NOW OPEN: Starduster Lounge Starduster Lounge, a new neighborhood bar at 3921
N Main Street, has officially opened, blending West Texas charm with Houston’s North Main Street energy. A project by Will Thomas and Benjy Mason, the bar is housed in a restored 1940s building, featuring vintage details and a West Texas mural by Carissa Marx-Beaty. The drink menu, curated by Mason and Justin Ware, highlights agave spirits, whiskey, craft beer, and 8th Wonder’s cannabis-infused beverages. A rotating lineup of food trucks will provide bites until a full menu launches. Community events will include Western movie screenings, guest bartenders, and hospitality collaborations. Open Monday-Friday 4 PM-2 AM, Saturday-Sunday 2 PM-2 AM. More at stardusterheights.com and @stardusterheights.
• See the order card for nutritional information or visit abcbakers.com. The 2025 cookie program runs through March 23. For more information about Girl Scouts cookies, please visit www.gssjc.org/en/cookies. html.
YES Prep White Oak Elementary to open this fall, lottery deadline approaching
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
As preparations for the upcoming school year are already underway, YES Prep Public Schools is set to expand its reach in Northwest Houston with the opening of YES Prep White Oak Elementary in August 2025. The new campus, along with its existing secondary counterpart at W Tidwell and Antoine Dr, will provide tuition-free education for students in the community, including a bilingual program designed to support Houston’s large Hispanic population.
With the student lottery deadline of Feb. 17 quickly approaching, families interested in enrolling their children for the 2025-26 school year are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
YES Prep Expands
Public Education in Northwest Houston
YES Prep currently serves 20,000 students across 24 campuses in Houston.
The addition of White Oak Elementary and Brays Oaks Elementary will bring its total enrollment to 21,500 students for the 2025-26 school year.
Located in predominantly Hispanic neighborhoods, the new White Oak Elementary will open with pre-K through second grade and gradually expand to include third through fifth grades. Students at the elementary school will be automatically enrolled in White Oak Secondary, ensuring a seamless transition into middle and high school.
“YES Prep is giving Houston
COMING SOON: Bahama Buck's Bahama Buck’s, the popular Texas-based frozen treat chain, is set to open a new location in the Heights. Known for its shaved ice, smoothies, sodas, and acai bowls, the brand offers refreshing favorites like cherry lime shaved ice, watermelon mango smoothies, and frozen hot koko. With 16 other Houston-area locations, the new spot at 2702 Yale St., Ste. 100 will bring its signature island-inspired flavors to the neighborhood. Now hiring crew members—interested applicants can visit www.bahamabucks.com for details.
NOW OPEN: The Little Juice Shop
Now open at 1802 Yale St., The Little Juice Shop offers all-natural, cold-pressed juices, smoothies, acai bowls, and snacks. Owner Nancy Maldonado, who started the business in her garage in 2018, launched the shop in January to bring fresh, organic blends like The Beast (apple, cucumber, lemon, ginger) and Sunshine (pineapple, celery, lime, turmeric) to the community. All products are free of additives, preservatives, and refined sugars, with juice cleanse packs available for those looking to reset. More
the high-quality educational opportunities it deserves,” said YES Prep CEO Mark DiBella. “We are empowering students and communities as we redefine what’s possible in public education. With personalized instruction by certified educators and support based on each child’s goals and areas of need, we equip students and families with the tools they need to build their own pathways to opportunity.”
A
Bilingual
Program
to Serve Houston’s Hispanic Community
With the closure of several Aldine ISD schools to the north, White Oak Elementary offers a new opportunity for families seeking bilingual edu-
info at thelittlejuiceshop.com.
NOW OPEN: Thousand Branches Wellness
Thousand Branches Wellness has opened a Mental Health Outpatient Clinic in the Heights. Located at 1415 N Loop W, Suite 305, the clinic offers services that span a broad array of full-scope mental health care including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), individual and family therapy, and medication management services. Thousand Branches Wellness – Houston offers 24/7 intake availability and flexible program options including telehealth services. Learn more at thousandbrancheswellness.com/locations/houston-north-loop.
COMING SOON: Camaraderie Michelin-starred pastry chef Shawn Gawle is bringing his first fine-casual neighborhood restaurant, Camaraderie, to the Heights. Known for his work at acclaimed restaurants Quince, Saison, and Corton, Gawle envisions Camaraderie as a warm, hospitality-driven space where guests can connect over great food in an open kitchen setting. The restaurant will be located at 608 W. 11th St., Houston. More info at www.camaraderiehtx. com.
cation. YES Prep’s bilingual program helps students develop biliteracy, strengthens their home language of Spanish, and supports English language fluency.
“Research has shown that when students start early with YES Prep, they tend to do better in high school,” YES Prep officials noted. The expansion of YES Prep to earlier grade levels aims to close opportunity gaps and set students up for long-term success.
How to Apply for the YES Prep Lottery
Enrollment at YES Prep schools is determined by a lottery system, which is currently open through Feb. 17. Submissions received after the deadline will be placed on a waitlist. Lottery results will be announced on Feb. 21. YES Prep schools are • Tuition-free and open to all children Equipped with bilingual instruction Committed to college readiness, boasting a 100% college acceptance rate Providing essential student resources, including free meals, uniforms, electronic devices, transportation, special education services, mental health support, and healthcare access For more information about YES Prep White Oak Elementary and Secondary schools, visit yesprep.org/ sayYES or call 713-967-9000.
Photo courtesy of YES Prep
The YES Prep White Oak Elementary campus is on target to open for the 2025-2026 school year.
Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 2
Art Valet:
“On My Way Home”: Brian Edwards Jr.’s tribute to Black cowboys
Brian Edwards Jr., a Houston-based photographer and filmmaker, brings the rich narrative of Black cowboy heritage to the forefront with his upcoming exhibit, “On My Way Home: Everything the Light Touches.” Edwards, who grew up in Dayton, Texas, a town with deep roots in this tradition, has captured the essence of this often overlooked aspect of American culture.
Growing up in southwest Houston, I recall seeing Black cowboys on horseback along Gessner, a sight that Edwards’ photographs now bring to life with stunning clarity. This memory, from my childhood in the early 1970s, resonates with the themes Edwards explores, highlighting the cultural significance and the personal stories behind the images.
Edwards’ journey back to Dayton after exploring opportunities elsewhere has led him to document the nuances of Black western lifestyle— from rodeos to ranching— capturing its authenticity and the people who preserve this legacy. His bio mentions that
he’s dedicated the last two years to traveling and photographing everything from rodeos to ranchers and other elements of the Black western lifestyle in the surrounding areas. This collection emphasizes the intricacies and authenticity of his home, showcasing the community’s genius and legacy through each frame. These images serve as both a visual and symbolic representation, diving into the stories that have shaped him and his art.
Edwards hasn’t just been known for this cultural exploration; he’s also captured the essence of global icons, including Oscar and Grammy winners, in his past work. However, with “On My Way Home,” he pivots back to his roots, offering a differ-
ent lens through which to view his storytelling prowess. This exhibit isn’t just another project; it’s a profound testament to the sense of belonging that comes from one’s heritage. It’s Edwards’ way of bringing his personal narrative back to where it all began, highlighting how deeply one’s cultural background can influence and enrich artistic expression.
The exhibit will be on view from Feb. 28 through April 20, 2025, at the Lanecia A. Rouse Gallery, housed within Holy Family HTX Episcopal Church at 3719 Navigation Boulevard, East End Houston. Join the opening reception on Friday, Feb. 28, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., to celebrate Edwards’ thoughtprovoking work. The gallery is open Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m.-noon. For more information, visit @largallery on Instagram or holyfamilyhtx.org/the-lar-gallery.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Greater Houston Partnership looks at regional economy in '24
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Editor's Note: In its "Economy at a Glance" report for February, the Greater Houston Partnership - the regional chamber of commerce - takes a look at the regional economy in 2024. The main body of the report, with an emphasis on the employment picture, is presented here with permission. This article first appeared in The Leader's sister paper, The Fort Bend Star. Economic data for the final months of 2024 continue to trickle in. With each report, a clearer picture of the past year emerges.
Job growth fell slightly below the historical average. Unemployment ticked up but remained low.
Sales tax collections, a proxy for overall economic
activity, were down in 2024.
• Inflation continued its downward trend, with prices rising slower in Houston than in the rest of the nation.
• Oil traded in a narrow range. The domestic rig count ratcheted down. U.S. production hit a new high.
• Though office and industrial construction slowed, other sectors picked up the pace.
• Homebuyers saw no relief with mortgage rates. The inventory of available homes rose dramatically. Home prices rose modestly.
Developers delivered more Class A apartment units to the market, keeping downward pressure on rents. The Port of Houston set a record for container traffic and was on track to set a
Community CALENDAR
record for overall tonnage. Though air cargo volumes were down, air passenger traffic set a record.
And as the year closed, the Houston Purchasing Managers Index suggested that Houston’s economy would continue to expand well into this year.
Employment Houston created 57,800 jobs in 2024, finishing the year with payroll employment at 3.5 million, a record for the region. The December job count was 308,000 above where it stood in February ’20 prior to the pandemic. Historically, Houston adds 65,000 to 70,000 jobs per year, significantly more in boom years, substantially less during busts. The somewhat slower
growth in ’24 reflects Houston catching its breath after three years of explosive growth.
Seventeen of the 19 major sectors tracked by the Texas Workforce Commission added jobs in ’24, the largest gains coming in construction, health care, wholesale trade, professional and business services, and restaurants and bars. These sectors benefited from a strong U.S. economy, expanding global trade, local population growth, a host of corporate relocations to the region, consumer confidence above national levels, and a surge in construction activity.
Only two sectors, retail and administrative support, lost jobs. The former suffered from a rash of retail bankruptcies and store closures, the latter from more Houstonians opt-
ing for gig work rather than seeking contract assignments through an employment agency.
The Partnership’s forecast for 2025 released in December, calls for the economy to return to a more sustainable pace of growth, the region adding 71,800 jobs, somewhat above the long-term trend of 65,000 to 70,000 per year. The forecast for 2024, released in December 2023, called for the region to add 57,600 jobs in 2024. For an economy with 3.5 million jobs, the 200-job difference is essentially a rounding error.
Metro Houston began the year with a 4.4 percent unemployment rate and finished at 4.1 percent. The rate dropped even though over 100,000 residents joined the workforce.
The rates are not seasonally adjusted.
Houston’s unemployment rate has been 4.1 percent or lower only 47 months times in the past 40 years. The current rate indicates both a healthy economy and a tight labor market.
Houston and either expanded their real estate footprint or added a significant number of jobs. New facilities accounted for 158 announcements, a 2 percent drop from 2023. The Partnership was unable to determine the nature of the remaining projects. Warehouse operations accounted for the largest share of project announcements, followed by office operations, then manufacturing. Find the full report at houston. org
Submitted photos
No Cover from the Moon by Brian Edwards Jr. Print on art paper, 48 x 66 inches, 2024.
Photo by Sarah De La Rosa
Brian Edwards Jr.
Sun is up when I get home by Brian Edwards Jr. Archival paper, 24 x 36 inches, 2022.
