For high school seniors, prom night is a milestone event—a time to celebrate achievements, friendships, and the journey ahead. But for many students, the cost of formal wear can be a barrier to attending. That’s where Project Prom steps in, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to attend their prom in style, free of financial worry.
This year, Heights High School PTO, in partnership with Communities in Schools, is work-
ing to resurrect Project Prom for Heights, Waltrip, and Northside High Schools. Previously a district-wide initiative supported by Houston ISD, Project Prom was cut, leaving students without this crucial resource. Now, a dedicated group of volunteers is working to fill the gap and make sure no student misses out on this special night due to financial hardship.
A Promise to Bring Back Project Prom
For Tracy Lisewsky, president of Heights High School PTO, bringing back Project Prom was a
personal mission. “I have seen firsthand the work undertaken by our on-campus personnel to fill the gap left by the cancellation of HISD’s Project Prom,” said Lisewsky. “Last year, I worked with our on-campus Wraparound Specialist to ensure several students could attend prom in style. Knowing that our Wraparound Specialist would be cut by the Miles administration, I made a promise to him that I would do my very best to resurrect Project Prom for 2025.”
By STEPHANIE SHIRLEY The Leader News Contributor
More than a year ago, the City of Houston announced a new sidewalk initiative to repair sidewalks which, by ordinance, would ordinarily be the responsibility of homeowners. The program was intended to increase safety and accessibility within the neighborhoods. Residents were encouraged to contact SIDEWALKS@ HOUSTONTX.GOV to offer suggestions and express concerns about walkways that posed threats or inconveniences to pedestrians.
When asked if these responses were forwarded to District C for review, however, Abbie Kamin’s office told The Leader that neither those solicited emails nor relevant 311 reports were forwarded to their office. Ultimately, all the research and community feedback for these improvements was initiated directly by Abbie Kamin’s office.
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
For the first time since 2019, Houston’s beloved Theater District Open House is making a grand return, promising a day filled with live performances, interactive workshops, and an immersive celebration of the city’s performing arts scene. The highly anticipated 2025 ExxonMobil Theater District Open House will take place on Sunday, March 10, from 12-5 p.m., offering Houstonians a chance to rediscover the magic of live theater, music, and dance – all for free.
The Houston Theater District is a 17-block cultural arts district
continues
and develop exponentially. Along with that growth, there has been a correlating increase in the school and residen-
in downtown Houston that houses world-renowned performing arts companies in venues such as Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theater and the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. The district also includes restaurants, cinemas, plazas and parks.
The open house event marks a significant milestone for Houston’s performing arts community after a six-year hiatus. Garden Oaks resident Craig Hauschildt, the new executive director of the Houston Theater District, emphasized the importance of this revival.
“The return of the Theater District Open House is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of
Houston’s vibrant performing arts community and an open invitation for everyone to reconnect,” he said.
With a variety of programming designed to engage visitors, attendees can expect an array of experiences.
“This free, family-friendly event is designed to spark curiosity and inspire new artistic interests, whether you’re a longtime theatergoer or someone stepping into these spaces for the first time,” Hauschildt said.
Throughout the day, visitors can experience the magic of live performances, participate in interactive dance workshops, enjoy concerts
By CHARLIE HARDWICK The Leader News Contributor
Oak Forest is home to a burgeoning music school that specializes in all instruments for all ages. University of Houston graduate and Oak Forest resident Drake Eckhart opened the school in 2022 and is driven by a passion for music with a foundation in educational psychology and childhood development. Eckhart enlists a philosophy around making the process of learning an instrument a fun endeavor with a focus on personalized lessons to each individual student. With over 220 students currently enrolled in the school, the future of music is looking bright.
MOTOR CROSS INJURY GATEWAYS INTO ORCHESTRA
Eckhart was only 11 years old and competing in a motor cross league when he suffered a serious injury that involved a Life Flight trip to the hospital. After recovery and a couple of new teeth implants, his mother said that they were done with motor cross and his Dad put a bass guitar in his hands, launching him into a new hobby and passion of music. Eckhart says of his dad, “He grew up playing guitar in a rock band and taught me how to play bass to some of my favorite rock musicians at the time. I naturally took to the instrument because it was so much fun.”
A fast learner, Eckhart soon adapted his rock bass playing skills to the cello and double bass in orchestra class. In middle school and high school he excelled competing in statewide competitions. After high school Eckhart, driven by his love of music, decided on a path of performance music study at the University of Houston where he would bond with his soon-to-be professor, mentor and bass player for the Houston Grand Opera, Dennis Whittaker.
HOBBY PASSION & TALENT
CREATE A MASTER TEACHER
Designated as a music performance major in his studies, Eckhart realized there was a reason why he ended up studying under Dennis Whittaker. Eckhart recognized how Whittaker’s teaching style was unique, with an ability to stylize a learning process that is
Photos by Stephanie Shirley
spanning a variety of musical styles, and engage in handson activities for all ages. It’s a chance to not just watch the arts, but to truly be part of them.
Beyond providing an entertaining day for attendees, the Theater District Open House plays a crucial role in the city’s broader arts ecosystem. Meg Booth, who calls the Heights home and serves as the chair of the Houston Theater District’s Board of Directors, as well as president & CEO of Performing Arts Houston, highlights the event’s longterm impact.
“We are so fortunate to have a robust cultural sector with remarkable and varied programs, including Theater District Open House—one of
the largest free performance showcases in the country,” she said. “Houston’s Theater District is stronger than ever with eight resident non-profit arts organizations that bring our many beautiful theaters to life year-round.”
As an arts hub that contributes to education, economic growth, and overall well-being, Houston’s Theater District is more than just a collection of venues—it’s a dynamic cultural space that fosters creativity and connection. With its doors wide open, this year’s Theater District Open House aims to inspire a renewed love for the performing arts and welcome new audiences into the fold.
For more information about the event and a schedule of performances, to register and to join the Facebook event, visit www.houstontheaterdistrict.org/tdoh.
Planning for the event began in December, and now, the team is calling on the community for support.
How You Can Help
Project Prom creates a boutique-style shopping experience where students can pick out formal wear free of charge. Donations of gently used and new formal attire are still needed, with only 30% of the necessary items fulfilled so far.
Donation Deadline: March 14th
Drop-off Locations:
June & Co. – 1229 Heights Blvd. (during normal business hours)
St. Stephen’s Methodist Church – 2003 W. 43rd St. (Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, in the church office)
Monetary Donations:
Donate online at cishouston.org/donate
Add “Project Prom” in the comment section
Items Needed
Ladies’ Items:
✓ Formal dresses (long or short, like new, clean, no rips)
✓ Special event jewelry and
✓ Dress shoes
✓ Formal handbags and clutches
Men’s Items:
✓ Suits or tuxedos
✓ Dress shirts and pants
✓ Dress shoes
✓ Vests, cummerbunds, bow ties, and neckties
Why Project Prom Matters
This initiative is about more than just clothing—it’s about dignity, confidence, and ensuring every student feels special on their big night.
The team hopes to expand Project Prom next year to include more schools, but they need the community’s help to make this year’s event a success. If you have gently used formal wear or can contribute financially, consider making a donation today. Every dress, suit, or accessory makes a difference.
For more information on how to support Project Prom, visit the Heights High School PTO website at www.heightspto.org. With the community’s help, Project Prom will ensure that every student gets the chance to shine on their big night—in style!
February is American Heart Month: Keep moving, eat well, get screened
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in both the United States and Harris County. Every 33 seconds, someone in the United States loses their life to cardiovascular disease. In 2023, approximately 931,578 people died due to heart disease; however, there are many ways to reduce the risk of heart disease. February is American Heart Month, and Harris County Public Health (HCPH) wants to remind residents about the significance of caring for their hearts.
Heart disease is a term used to refer to several types of heart conditions. The most common type of heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease (CAD), which affects the blood flow to the heart. Reduced blood flow can lead to a heart attack.
Sometimes, heart disease may not show any signs or symptoms until a person actually experiences a heart attack, heart failure, or arrhythmia in real time. When these events
fun and inviting with a personalized touch. Eckhart resonated with Whittaker’s ability to communicate in a way whereby he could grab on to a personal interest of a student, then use that interest in the teaching process.
Eckhart remembers how Whittaker could pull a reference off the shelf that a student could understand, yet, his method on how he explained the information was more important than the information itself. Whittaker would guide Eckhart to change his major to a teaching degree where he would immerse himself into educational psychology and childhood development. Whittaker’s teaching style would sow the seeds of Eckhart’s method of instruction that is the foundation of the Future of Music school’s process today.
Eckhart reflects on his philosophy, “I can play any instrument I want, but if I want to teach people to play instruments, I need to know people as well as I know instruments.”
THE PANDEMIC BRINGS CHANGE
After graduation from University of Houston, Eckhart became an orchestra teacher for Keller Middle School in the Pasadena Independent School District when the Covid pandemic hit. With Covid restrictions, Eckhart wondered if there would be a place for classroom learning with 40 students ever again. The frustration of limited student access led Eckhart to retire from teaching in public school. Falling back on private tutoring, Eckhart used a digital platform to instruct students and was able to build a solid clientele.
happen, symptoms may include:
Heart attack: Chest pain or discomfort, upper back or neck pain, indigestion, heartburn, nausea or vomiting, extreme fatigue, upper body discomfort, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
• Arrhythmia: Fluttering feelings in the chest (palpitations).
• Heart failure: Shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling of the feet, ankles, legs, abdomen, or neck veins.
High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. Additionally, several other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can increase the risk of developing heart disease, including: Diabetes
• Being overweight or obese
Unhealthy diet
• Lack of exercise
• Excessive alcohol use
You can take several steps to help prevent heart disease and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. Some of these steps include: Choose healthy foods and
drinks: Eat fresh fruits and vegetables over processed foods.
Maintain a healthy weight: Carrying extra weight on the body can put additional stress on the heart and blood vessels.
Stay active: Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Adults should exercise at least 2.5 hours per week, and children should be physically active at least 1 hour per day.
Manage your medical conditions: Control high cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes to lower heart disease risk.
• Quit Smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking and excessive drinking greatly increases your risk for heart disease.
• Have regular medical checkups: Regular checkups focus on early disease detection and can help find health concerns before they become serious; they are not the same as visits for
sickness or injury. HCPH’s Health Services division provides routine healthcare exams, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screenings, as well as other physical exams. These services are free, or very low-cost to residents.
HCPH also offers free Chronic Disease Prevention education through its Nutrition and Physical Activity Program, Tobacco/Vaping Prevention and Cessation Program, and Diabetes Prevention Program. These programs educate individuals on how to lower their risk of heart disease by adopting healthier eating habits, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, learning how to reverse pre-diabetes, and more.
To schedule an appointment with HCPH’s Health Services, call (832) 927-7350. To get connected to the Chronic Disease Prevention programs, call (713) 439-6000. To learn more about reducing your risk of heart disease and learn about available resources, please visit hcphtx.org or cdc. gov.
After the Covid pandemic finally ended, Eckhart started holding lessons in his Oak Forest living room. He soon had over 40 weekly lessons and growing, so he decided it was time to look for a proper studio space. With support from his business-minded father who runs an aviation manufacturing company, as well as his wife and in-laws, Eckhart began the process of launching his passion into his idea for a school called The Future of Music. Utilizing resources from his days at University of Houston, Eckhart reached out to his former classmates to join him as instructors for his new school. The school opened in September of 2022 and now has 20 employees and 220 students. Eckhart supplies all the instruments needed and has crafted a curriculum that has the scope of educational psychology and childhood development in mind. Eckhart points out, however, that the
school is open to all ages and experience levels, teaching students from 2 years old to over 60.
With a median age of nine years old, 65 percent of incoming new students are interested in learning piano. The school can accommodate a wide range of instruments, however, from guitar, bass, ukulele to voice, violin, cello, stand up bass and drums. For the youngest potential musicians in the family, the school has started a Mommy & Me program for kids from 2-4 years old. Parents and children together can also take a class together called Singing Saturdays, which is meant to be a first musical experience for children and designed with the idea of bringing music into the home.
With a curriculum for each individual instrument that caters to each individual student, the school writes programs they refer to as “instrument
karate”. Similar to the belt system in karate, this system is meant to be an extrinsic motivator for each student. The goal is to be easily attainable and as obvious as possible on how to advance and be successful on one’s chosen instrument. The school’s number one priority is to make learning fun, because students can not have fun unless they can easily identify their goals. Many of the teachers at the school are students themselves who are in their final years at University of Houston and thrive on the experience of teaching kids how learning music can be fun. Eckhart reiterates, “Our main job is to make learning music fun with a personalized approach that ensures success for all.”
WHAT: The Future of Music
WHERE: 1820 W. 43rd. Street Houston Texas 77018
PHONE: 713-393-7021
Houston Methodist Hospital has been named the Best Hospital in Texas for 13 years in a row by U.S. News & World Report and recognized on the Honor Roll eight times — with 10 nationally ranked specialties. For more than 100 years, we have provided patients with the highest quality care, the most advanced technology and the best patient experience.
That’s the difference between
leading it.
THE TOPICS. Change we Musk
To: President for Life
From: X (formerly the Twit)
As per your instructions, I am busily reorganizing the fed eral government to do away with fraud, waste and abuse such as the Interstate Highway System, windmills and life guards. To downsize the bu reaucracy, I have created the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE (pro nounced DOG-ee). This new department to shrink the gov ernment includes building a new 25-story office tower in downtown Washington, hiring 2,199 new employees and the need for an annual budget of approximately $2.1 billion, give or take maybe $10 million or so. To fully inspect the widespread and unneeded government facilities, I have ordered six GulfstreamG800 jets, 20 stretch limos (to accommodate our laptops, TVs and wet bar) and, of course, a small number of chauffeurs. Did I mention the bodyguards? I have been regularly threatened by outraged fired secretaries.
I needed a staff of experts with the background, experience and know-how to tackle this enormous downsizing task. For this I looked to my
ing youthful and energetic people, and they have jumped to the task. However, there are certain drawbacks. My wizard techy I sent to explore the overstaffed nuclear power plants (do we really need safety inspectors?) had to leave to attend his Little League practice while Gloria Fitz-Bottom, dispatched to check for a vacancy at Mount Rushmore, said she had to get ready for Prom Night. Incidentally, some laid-off federal slackers have referred to my staff as “Musk Rats.” I know who these whiners are, where they live and how to cancel their pensions.
One of my major undertakings was the Department of Defense. I discovered a lot of
redundancies: we have both an Army and a Marine Corps. Why? And do we really need a Navy in the Atlantic and the Pacific? If, for instance, China attacks us and our Navy is mothballed in Norfolk, they can easily get to the war in a few weeks by going through the Panama Canal, which I have sold to Musk Waterways for a price to be negotiated later. The Army has shown some reluctance in switching to TeslaTanks, while the Air Force is wary about privatizing its planes, but Southwest and United like the idea. The 82nd Airborne is coming around to coin-operated machineguns. Finally in this matter of downsizing, the Pentagon is now the Triangleagon. In furthering our effort to root out fraud, waste and abuse, I am glad you fired the 17 inspectors general whose jobs were to root out fraud, waste and abuse. Some whiners claim these watchdogs have saved the American taxpayers billions of dollars. Moving on, the few remaining EPA inspectors are on life-support. Something about breathing problems. I have outlawed solar panels after noting that they don’t work during Daylight Saving Time.
I have a new slogan for the EPA: “Coal is our goal.” Also on health, Robert Kennedy, Jr. can now be called “Dr. Kennedy.” Another money saver: I have replaced air traffic controllers with Boy Scouts using semaphores. The U.S. Constitution does not specify the size of the U.S. Supreme Court, so over the years there have been anywhere from five to 10 justices. The Judiciary Act of 1869 set the number at nine, but it was just that, an Act of Congress. There are currently at least three and sometimes four trouble-makers on the Court who refuse to get with our program. You get my drift. Speaking of Congress, those Republican lapdogs must have gone through a transgender operation. Here again I have found an unneeded government operation. You got elected due in large part by promising to deport illegal immigrants and to that end DOGE can save you a billion. We don’t need buses and planes to move them south. Just roads. They walked in. They can walk out. We might turn a buck, or peso, by charging them an exit fee. Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas has offered land to house the thousands of
illegal immigrants, complete with watchtowers, barbed wire and landmines. He has picked out a place full of wokers, losers and Democrats: Houston. This brings us to foreign affairs, which you seem to prefer because you keep marrying them. Denmark remains an ally, but Greenland has declared war. Canadians say they do not want to be the 51st state since you have already taken the title. Not to correct you, but the Gaza Strip is not an exotic dance. Toronto is not the Lone Ranger’s faithful Indian companion and NATO is not one of the Marx Brothers. You rightly claimed to end the Ukraine-Russian war “in 24 hours.” Fortunately you didn’t say which 24 hours, but your peace plan is excellent if the Ukrainians agree to surrender.
Your revamping of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts by firing most board members and making yourself president was brilliant although there is some objection to your plans for a Stormy Daniels Film Festival. A reminder: Beethoven’s Fifth is not a bottle of Scotch and, no, you can’t go swimming in Swan Lake. I have abolished most networks because they
won’t carry Fox News. I recommend we replace those networks with TikTok. Finally, the Constitution flatly states: “No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.” I think Congress will go along with my plan. (See: “lapdogs” above) Also, amendments have to be ratified by threefourths of the state legislatures. That should be no problem in Republican-controlled legislatures like Texas. One more: “No Person except a natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President.” Must be born in the USA? We do have amendments, so we could include South Africans. Just saying. Ashby amends at
Research at Rice University in Houston, over the last decade, there has been a 125 percent increase in pedestrian injuries and fatalities in Houston. This number far exceeds the national average of 50 percent. Simply put, negligent drivers account for a large part of this statistic. But outdated or absent infrastructure, in the form of effective pedestrian walkways, right-of-ways, signals, signage and other essential safety elements, also comprise a great concern. Most Heights and neighboring residents are completely unaware of the vast geographic area covered by this community’s representation, City Council District C. It spans an area west of downtown, reaching as far north as Pinemont and extending south, well beyond Braeswood Boulevard.
The attention given to this readership’s community, in light of those considerations and subsequent priorities, speaks volumes for its dedicated representation. The Leader recently had a conversation with District C Council Member Abbie Kamin about current and future plans for neighborhoods in this community, as well as other identified areas of concern that she continues to champion.
“Our focus remains on how residents get safely to and from their homes,” Kamin said. “Public safety is a top priority and that also pertains to how families get around. So we’re focusing on gaps in sidewalk segments, safe crossings; multi-modal safety. These are resident-driven improvements that are part of my ongoing commitment to keep District C safer and more accessible for everyone.”
These longer-term projects are being funded by her office out of her Council District Service Fund (CDSF) allocation and are based predominantly on feedback from the residents themselves. In terms of prioritization she added, “It’s important to understand that, as a district office, we have limited funding and I need to ensure funding is distributed equitably throughout the district.” In keeping with her focus to make her neighborhoods safer and more accessible, two new pedestrian-
friendly projects here in The Heights were recently announced.
Yale & 13th
The first new planned project that was discussed is just in its infancy and involves a rapid flashing beacon (caution light) at the intersection of Yale and 13th.
“It’s currently in design but construction is planned to begin in the fall of 2025, closer to the end of the year,” Kamin said. “We allocated $40,000 dollars for this project, based on the numerous emails and concerns raised by residents regarding the safety of Yale Street and more specifically, including this particular intersection.”
Prioritizing projects is a balancing act, Kamin said, especially since the Heights has become such a walkable community. She said she was speaking at a community meeting and a neighbor raised a concern about Love Park.
“We have to look at safety and quality of life holistically when we are making improvements,” Kamin said. “We have to look at how our residents get to parks, to schools, to work and all of the great restaurants that the Heights has to offer. All of that is impor-
tant, as well as making sure they get back home safely,” she said.
The Leader was curious about the chosen intersection, given the high school and park are straddled by 12th and 13th Street. Kamin said that District C had received resident feedback and documentation concerning the number of auto-pedestrian incidents at that particular intersection and realized that it was a problem that needed to be addressed. They decided on this location because of its heavy usage and the fact that all sides; north, south, east and west would benefit from this safety improvement.
“We asked Public Works to take a look at this corridor and the location was approved,” Kamin said. Her office had also been approached about the possibility of speed cushions along certain segments of Yale St., but because it is considered a major thoroughfare, it’s not allowed by the city.
The Leader reached out to the Heights Library about the project and was put in touch with HPL’s Assistant Deputy Director of Communications, LaDonna Weems. She was a wealth of information in terms of understanding the
importance of the context of this District C initiative. She provided the following statistics:
• From July 2024 to December 2024, the Heights Neighborhood Library welcomed 59,030 visitors, averaging approximately 9,800 visitors per month.
• Program attendance during this period is as follows:
- Early childhood (ages 0-5): 2,200 attendees
- School-age (ages 6-11): 1,417 attendees
- Young Adult (ages 1218): 722 attendees
- Adult programs: 328 attendees
• In FY24, the Heights Library ranked as the city’s 5th busiest library in terms of visitor numbers and second in circulation, rankings that have continued year-todate in 2025.
“[Abbie Kamin] values the input of the community members and she really is dedicated to improving infrastructure to better serve the residents,” Weems said. “I work with Council Member Kamin and her office quite a bit and, you know, she’s a true activist for the district that she serves. Additionally, Mayor Whitmire is committed to prioritizing safety and mobility.”
Weems concluded by sharing a statement from Jesus Villegas, the Heights Neighborhood Library manager. Villegas said, “We see a high volume of students participating in events and programs especially during lunch hour and students’ free periods. Ensuring their safety as they walk to and from the library would go a long way in protecting them and encouraging more young people to take advantage of the library’s resources.”
The Leader reached out to another obvious stakeholder, Heights High School on E. 13th Street about the planned caution light initiative.
“While we do all that we can to support student safety while on campus, there are a number of concerns we have for our students outside of the school building,” said Wendy Hampton, campus principal. “With both Hamilton and Heights dismissing a combined 3,400 students that are traveling by bus, car, or foot at the same time, pedestrian traf-
fic is definitely one of those concerns. I appreciate the City Council’s commitment to the safety of our students as they travel to and from campus.”
Harvard Elementary Vicinity
The second major project initiative being funded by District C is also residentdriven. The district worked with the Houston Heights Association and area residents to determine where they would like to see sidewalk improvements. Anyone who lives in the Heights is aware that the pedestrian sidewalk issue can be problematic. It primarily stems from the overwhelming growth of the root systems of the vast number of very large trees, providing canopy for the area. While it is unfeasible to address them en masse, District C solicited community feedback to evaluate some of the most frequently traveled.
Residents in or around Harvard Elementary are acutely aware of how many parents walk their kids to school daily, given cooperative weather; many families walk with students, nonschool age children in strollers, and even pets. The sidewalks on Harvard St. directly in front of the campus are not at issue. The concerns involve a number of heavilytraveled adjacent neighborhood blocks leading to the campus from several different directions. As such, District C has allotted nearly $100,000 in funding for the improvement of these segments, including stretches of the following: 9th & Rutland
• 9th & Arlington
• 8th & Arlington 10th & Arlington
• 10th & Arlington
• 9th & Oxford
610 Columbia
Many neighborhood parents, even those pleasantly surprised by the planned pedestrian improvements around the campus, were very supportive of the initiative. One of the many dozens of parents escorting his or her children to school on an unusually balmy February morning was Hunter Hammill. He, his son, and his dog walked to campus as they do on most days when the weather permits. We talked about the current condition of sidewalks in The Heights and the benefits of improving the pedestrian around the school. His son was one of many who conceded to having been tripped up by the oftentimes-hazardous walkways.
Another Heights area of genuine concern to the district involves the intersecting cross-streets (especially those without stop signs) along the Nicholson Trail.
“We fought very hard for the improvements at 11th and Nicholson, but the northern part of Nicholson is still worrisome due to the number of walkers, bikers and families that travel the trail daily,” Kamin said. We asked Public Works to go out several times and they did some new striping, but that’s just not enough. So I’m continuing to advocate for more improvements here, as well.”
There are additional future endeavors on the table.
District C is working with Public Works on some needed ditch rehabs, especially for those conducive to flooding. They are also working on proposals for trail crossings with inadequate sidewalk connections and curbs, where pedestrian crossing is rendered unsafe.
“All of this goes back to our district’s focus on neighborhoods and safety,” Kamin said, “especially around our trails and schools.”
Photo by
Houston housing weathers snowstorm with sustained growth in January
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Single-family home sales were in positive territory for the fifth month in a row
Houston's resilient housing market weathered a rare winter storm in January. While the record snowfall caused temporary disruptions, the market quickly rebounded and maintained a healthy balance between supply and demand.
According to the Houston Association of Realtors’ (HAR’s) January 2025 Housing Market Update, single-family home sales across the Greater Houston area rose 1.2 percent, with 5,064 units sold compared to 5,002 in January 2024. This marks the fifth consecutive month of sales growth, a trend last observed in the first half of 2021.
The high end of the market continued to experience a wave of buyer interest. The luxury segment ($1 million+) recorded a 20.7 percent increase in sales compared to
last January. Next was the $500,000 to $999,999 segment which saw an 8.1 percent gain. Homes priced between $250,000 and $499,999 made up the most sales in January, but sales were 1.6 percent below last year’s level. The segment comprised of homes priced $149,99 and below also experienced a slowdown in sales activity.
The rental market started the new year strong with increased demand. HAR will publish its January 2025 Rental Home Update on Wednesday, February 19.
“We're seeing a healthy balance in the Houston housing market as we head into the traditionally busy spring and summer months,” said HAR Chair Shae Cottar with LPT Realty. “Inventory is in a good place to handle the expected uptick in buyer demand. Interest rates will remain a factor, but the market fundamentals are strong.”
January Monthly Market Comparison
The Houston housing market’s positive momentum continued in January, with total
property sales increasing 1.3 percent year-over-year. Total dollar volume rose 8.9 percent to $2.5 billion. Active listings, or the total number of available properties, were 26.3 percent above the 2024 level.
Single-Family Homes Update, Citywide
January marked the fifth month in a row where singlefamily home sales were in positive territory with sales increasing 1.2 percent yearover-year. A total of 5,064 units were sold across the Greater Houston area compared to 5,002 during the same time last year. The average price rose 4.4 percent to $406,492 while the median price edged up by 1.6 percent to $325,000. The price per square foot increased to $174 from $169 in January 2024.
Active listings were 33.3 percent above the volume of 2024 and have remained around 30,000 units for the last eight months, demonstrating a balance between supply and demand.
Days on Market, or the actual time it took to sell a
home, increased from 59 to 61. Months of inventory expanded to a 4.3-months supply from 3.2-months the prior year. The current national supply stands at 3.3 months, as reported by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
Broken out by housing segment, November sales performed as follows:
$1 - $99,999: decreased 4.1
percent
• $100,000 - $149,999: decreased 10.4 percent
$150,000 - $249,999: increased 3.0 percent
$250,000 - $499,999: decreased 1.6 percent
• $500,000 - $999,999: increased 8.1 percent
Source: Houston Association of Realtors' Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
$1M and above: increased 20.7 percent HAR also breaks out sales figures for existing single-family homes. In January, existing home sales totaled 3,493, up 2.5 percent compared to the same time in 2024. The average price rose 7.6 percent to $415,004, and the median sales price increased 4.5 percent to $323,000.
Houston Real Estate Highlights in December Single-family home sales increased 1.2 percent yearover-year; Days on Market (DOM) for single-family homes went from 59 to 61 days; • Total property sales were up 1.3 percent with 6,173 units sold; Total dollar volume rose 8.9 percent to $2.5 billion; The single-family median price was up 1.6 percent to $325,000; The single-family average price climbed 4.4 percent to $406,492; Single-family home months of inventory registered a 4.3-months supply, up from 3.2 months last January. Townhome/condominium sales increased 6.8 percent year-over-year. The median price declined 4.1 percent to $211,000, and the average price was statistically unchanged at $248,241.
Mayor's Office releases results of Citywide Efficiency Study
COMMUNITY REPORTS Report Finds Areas for Improvement and Cost Savings in City Operations
Mayor John Whitmire and his senior leadership team recently outlined the results of a citywide efficiency study focusing on the City of Houston's 22 municipal departments.
The report highlighted findings that include non-compliant use of city credit cards, employees who spend too much time reading emails and attending meetings instead of effectively serving the public, and 40% of supervisors who manage three or fewer employees.
The report identified multiple areas for improvement while also highlighting the administration's commitment to transparency, accountability,
and fiscal responsibility. The full report is available on the city's website.
Starting in August 2024, the comprehensive citywide assessment supported by Ernst & Young LLP (EY) reviewed four key areas: performance, organization, financial (spending), and forensic accounting.
“It is so revealing why Houstonians are frustrated and why I will not go to them and ask for additional resources until we gain their confidence that we are using their money wisely,” said Mayor Whitmire.
Key Findings
Among the key findings:
Performance and Accountability: Houston is already ahead in tracking progress through performance measures but needs to shift from just measuring outputs to tracking real outcomes that matter to residents—like
faster emergency response times and reducing disparities across communities.
Operations and Efficiency: Too many employees are bogged down in unnecessary administrative tasks, while outdated structures and narrow spans of control make it difficult to fill vacancies and retain talent.
Spending and Procurement: The current approach to procurement is ripe for improvement. The efficiency study found duplicative contracts, inconsistent vendor practices, and opportunities to save money by strategically managing spending.
Financial Controls and Risks: The study identified vulnerabilities in managing city resources, such as procurement card (P-Card) usage and emergency orders. Strengthening these controls will ensure that every dollar is spent wisely and responsibly.
“This efficiency study highlights my commitment to responsible governance and is an important step toward restoring trust and accountability in how our city government works for Houstonians,” said Mayor Whitmire. “We take these findings seriously and are already taking steps to eliminate waste, duplication, and corruption while ensuring taxpayer dollars are managed efficiently and transparently.”
On the issue of city vendor management, Chief of Staff Chris Newport stated: “80% of the dollars the city spent in 2024 was with 6% of our vendors. What that means is we could be more strategic in the type of relationship that we have with those vendors and where we spend most of our money. We can consolidate our spending across departments. We can improve these things while maintaining our focus on our MWBE program
without compromising on the goals we set for our supplier diversity program and our commitment to small businesses. We stand to realize significant and material savings from bringing discipline and intent.”
In response to the organizational analysis, Senior Advisor Cynthia Wilson shared, “This is about us all being better, getting information for employees to make the work environment better for everyone so they can be more effective and efficient.”
Plan of Action
In response to the citywide efficiency study, Mayor Whitmire's administration has initiated a corrective action plan, including a priority to: Focus on Results: Revamp how the city tracks and shares progress through updated performance dashboards that are visible to the public.
Streamline Government:
Redesign the city's organizational structures to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, create clear career pathways, and ensure municipal teams have the resources to deliver.
Improve Spending Practices: Strengthen procurement processes to eliminate waste, find cost savings, and ensure vendors meet the high standards expected of those serving Houston.
Strengthen Financial Oversight: Implementing stricter controls and monitoring systems to safeguard taxpayer dollars and reduce risks.
“We are dedicated to addressing these issues proactively,” said Mayor Whitmire. “Our goal is to make the necessary improvements while maintaining the trust and confidence of Houstonians.” See the full reports at www.houstontx.gov/efficiencystudy.
Art Valet: Archway Gallery unveils Becky Soria’s
Archway Gallery is proud to present “Intimate Geographies,” showcasing the latest works by acclaimed artist Becky Soria. The exhibition opens with a reception on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 5-8 p.m., featuring an Artist Talk at 6:30 p.m., at 2305 Dunlavy, Houston, TX 77006, where attendees can enjoy complimentary valet parking and light refreshments.
In her latest exhibition, “Intimate Geographies,” artist Becky Soria delves deep into the human experience, portraying the body not as an impersonal object but as a canvas of personal history and emotion. Over her 40-year career, Soria has evolved her art to reflect complex themes, intertwining her journey with broader human narratives.
Soria’s paintings are more
“Intimate Geographies”
than visual art; they are maps of our collective and personal experiences. By focusing on the body, she explores the layers beneath the skin - both physical and psychological. Her work captures the essence of human life, reflecting on issues concerning women, our shared world, and the evolution of our cultural identities.
Influenced by her father’s collection of pre-Columbian art and fascinated by mytho-
logical themes, Soria interweaves prehistoric imagery with contemporary reflections. She draws upon historical goddess figures, using them as archetypes to discuss the empowerment of women in a postmodern context.
The exhibit is a culmination of Soria’s dedication to art, presenting a narrative that spans from her early influences to her current contemplations on life, nature, and human history. Her work in “Intimate Geographies” is not just a display of artistic skill but an exploration of the intimate relationship between art, human experience, and our collective concerns.
In these works, Soria employs mostly acrylic paints, with some charcoal, and in certain pieces, she incorporates unconventional materi-
als like cardboard, rope, and paper, adding layers of texture and meaning. The exhibition runs from March 1 to April 3, 2025, with a closing reception on March 29 from 6-8 p.m.
Since 1976, Archway Gallery has been Houston’s, and the nation’s, oldest artistowned and operated galleries, showcasing high-quality, affordable art. Located at 2305 Dunlavy, the gallery features a dynamic mix of paintings, sculptures, and pottery, with monthly exhibitions and special events. Visit ArchwayGallery.com for more information.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Calling All Students: City seeks entries for 3rd Annual Truck Art Contest
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) encourages students to rev up their creativity as the City’s annual Solid Waste Truck Art Contest rolls out. The 3rd Annual Truck Art contest is open to all K–12 students enrolled in City of Houston schools. Art entries will be accepted on the Solid Waste Management website from through February 28. This year’s contest theme, “Save the Bayou” highlights the need
to protect Houston’s bayous from plastic pollution and illegal dumping.
Houston is home to an extensive network of 22 slowmoving bayous that play a critical role in flood control, recreation, and community connections. These vital waterways are increasingly threatened by plastic pollution and illegal dumping.
“Houston’s bayous are the lifelines of our city, and they are in danger due to plastic pollution and illegal dumping,” said Mark Wilfalk, Director of the Solid Waste Management Department. “We are tapping
Community CALENDAR
and submit your
into the creative minds of the next generation to highlight the importance of saving the bayous and putting actions behind it.”
The Department called on environmental advocates, like the Bayou Protection Agency, to assist by judging the art submissions.
“Our mission is to protect and restore the richness and diversity of Houston’s bayous through conservation, advocacy, and education,” said Margot Sager, project manager of BPA. “BPA believes engaging the next generation is key to sustaining these vital
waterways, and by educating children about the environmental challenges facing our bayous, we empower them to become future stewards of our natural resources.”
Four winners will be selected through a voting process with city staff, council members, and community partners.
The winners will be recognized at a City Council meeting, highlighting their efforts in promoting environmental awareness.
For complete contest rules and details, please visit www. houstonsolidwaste.org.
Is "The Brutalist" a spectacle or a snoozefest?
By ELLIOTT STEWART Youth Movie/TV Critic
Elliott’s overall rating: 3 out of 5 stars
A few weeks ago, as of writing this, the Oscar nominations were released. One film that was no surprise to see dominating the categories was The Brutalist The Brutalist is a skyscraper of a film—a gigantic monument that towers over you, and all you can do is stand in its shadow. For a while, I was scared to enter the skyscraper. With the Oscar nominations, I had no choice now, and I had no idea what would be inside.
The Brutalist follows Làslo Tòth, played by Adrien Brody, a Jewish architect who immigrated to America, only for his dreams to be spun into an absurdist monument that he is nearly forced to build by a millionaire American. The film is split into two acts, with a real-time intermission in the middle where the audience is urged to leave the theater and "stretch their legs." That’s how long this movie is.
To start bluntly, this film has some of the most beautiful shots I’ve ever seen. In fact, every single technological aspect of this film blows me away. Despite the runtime, I am truly glad to have had the pleasure of sitting through this in a theater. I truly can’t express how some of the shots genuinely took my breath away with their beauty. The film is constantly offering something amazing to marvel at, and the only way I could see this being any better than it already is, is if it were complemented by a gripping story. Which, the film doesn't entirely have.
The first act of The Brutalist is mostly setup, as Làslo arrives in New York from war-torn Hungary, meets people, has interactions, and builds things that will become much more important in the second act.
The second act follows Làslo internally, as he deals with family struggles and is confronted with the natural corruptness of the rich. Overall, the second act is stronger than the first, but it's nowhere near perfect. The film juggles an absurd amount of themes, and for a film with such a high runtime, each theme gets a pretty low amount of screentime; this is in exchange for a lot of bizarre scenes that really only serve as filler. Any important topic The Brutalist wants to discuss is only given one scene at most, while there are
at least 10 scenes in this film that only consist of a character sitting down and/or staring at the camera. Each scene of The Brutalist provides an entirely unique experience from the others, creating a very versatile film overall. However, with that versatility comes inconsistency. A cycle that the film follows is that usually one scene offers up a really interesting idea or character detail, and the film moves on, never to expand on it. This ended up leaving a feeling of dissatisfaction after I finished the film. Every character has an arc, but not a single one of them, not even Làslos’ is thoroughly wrapped up or even brought up more than once or twice. Another odd issue I found in The Brutalist was the odd way some scenes were cut, which I find especially strange because The Brutalist was one of the main films to score an editing nomination this year. This was most likely a stylistic choice, but many scenes had a habit of cutting at the most important part, or even in the middle of a sentence. This editing decision would make sense if it were followed up by another scene offering juxtaposition, or at the very least, following up on what we just saw. But as I said, each section here is wildly different from the others, so the idea of ‘cutting on action’ only adds to the emptiness of a lot of these scenes. Despite its many narrative oversights, I believe the film pushes every other aspect to its absolute limit of perfection. If anything, the film should be watched for the beautiful composition alone. The performances are all great; the only real problems arise when you take a glance behind the camera. Then you realize that the skyscraper you once marveled at is completely empty. Elliott Stewart is a Heightsbased youth movie critic who hopes to direct movies himself when he grows up. In the meantime, he watches, analyzes, and critiques movie classics as well as current cinema releases. Elliot's parents occasionally allow him to watch and critique R-rated films under their supervision. Find out more about Elliott here.
