midtown paper_2Q11 by QuantumSUR

midtown PAPER

A PUBLICATION OF MIDTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT • houstonmidtown.com

inserted what’s inside • midtown map

in & about a list of new and exciting happenings in midtown

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midtown meetings choose a meeting and attend

the joy of self expression helping hands in midtown all about patrol alerts

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midtown dining nit noi café pub fiction

Michael Velliquette, "Propeller"

calendar of events a list of midtown events

Living Co-Operatively The HAUS Project at 1505 Rosalie in midtown

reap rewards at houston re-market catch the wave in midtown want to rev? bagby street midtown reconstruction

dragons and drums and ribbons, oh my! mai’s grand reopening a smash hit! art in the park 2011

veryone has chores, giving five hours a week to tasks like bathroom duty, shopping and cooking. And there are meetings, regular house meetings every two weeks and a contract that states the residents will work toward a common goal of sustainability and cooperative living. So why do 11 people think Houston’s first non-profit housing co-op is great? Co-op members Matthias Jung and Jay Crossley praised the benefits in a recent interview with GreenWatch’s Brian Harrison. ‘“We literally live with our friends,” says Jung. “We grow to learn different perspectives on what sustainability might mean to one other. It is an experiment in a lot of ways, but it’s a wonderful experiment. “ The HAUS Project is a result of years of preparation, thought processing and idea development, and as Crossley adds, “a mountain of advice from NASCO Development Services,” a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to facilitating the creation of affordable group equity co-ops and their members for the purpose of promoting community oriented cooperative living. NASCO has documented that cooperative living inherently reduces each member’s energy and water consumption by 30 to 50%. HAUS Project is the acronym for Houston Access to Urban Sustainability Project, a non-profit organization jointly created by Crossley and fellow board members in 2010 to provide affordable, sustainable, cooperative housing in Houston’s urban core. The goal is to create an environment where cars are less needed or potentially not needed at all. HAUS Project’s goal is to establish all HAUSes near Light Rail Transportation Hubs. The HAUS Project gives members the opportunity to transition into a low carbon lifestyle. The origins of the Rosalie house date to when Paul Schechter moved to Houston in June 2009 and wanted to live in a housing cooperative, but found none existed. The next month he purchased the 4,000 sq ft dilapidated old house—circa 1925, with grand visions of ‘greenifying’ it into a large co-op. About a year later, he met Jay Crossley, who had

Sustainability with

an HTC Jumpstart

2nd qtr 2011

ouston Technology Center (HTC) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that enables and accelerates the growth of emerging technology companies for the purpose of creating jobs and promoting economic development in the greater Houston area. Since its inception in 1999, HTC has assisted over 250 companies work to commercialize their technology, for example... Houston-based PF Waterworks is partnering with John Wiley & Sons, Inc. to market Water and Energy Conservation Products

under the “For Dummies” brand. The company’s “Water Conservation Kit” includes both a WaterSense labled easy-toinstall showerhead and a WaterSense labeled bathroom sink faucet aerators. The products use about 20 percent less water and perform as well as, or better than, conventional models. The kit can save over two hundred dollars annually for an average family of four while saving tens of thousands of gallons of water per household annually through increased water efficiencies, water

started the Houston Co-op Workforce and the two joined forces. With the help of several other founding members, Houston’s first housing co-op finally opened its doors in January 2011. The absence of a roof for four months meant over 70% of the sheetrock had to be replaced. Much of the copper wiring and plumbing had been stolen by looters. Still, there were benefits to starting over: “The nice thing about a gut rehab,” says Schechter, “is you get to ‘greenify’ everything with new features like spray foam insulation, tankless water heaters and plumbing to accept solar hot water.” Today, the once foreclosed and flooded structure begs for rain to utilize some of its newest conversions. A collection system is in place, ready to capture rainwater on the main roof and divert it to a large 3,000 gallon tank that will service six toilets and two washing machines in the 4,000 sq. ft., tenbedroom house. Tankless water heaters are already in use, minimizing hot water waste. Mini-split air conditioning creates nine different cooling zones, so unused areas can be turned off and save up to 40% on electricity bills; meanwhile, the condensate it produces, up to 10 gallons on a summer day, is being redirected to the garden and the fruit trees. Plans are in the works for a large solar hot water system that will be placed on the south-facing roof, ultimately to “pre-heat” the home’s hot water prior to its passing through the tankless system. Water conservation is just one of many eco-friendly ideas. Materials from the City of Houston Building Materials Reuse Warehouse, rescontinued on page 4

reductions and energy savings from reduced demand on the home hot water heaters, wells and septic systems. www. pfwaterworks.com.

GBB’s nationally recognized green certification provides industry specific programs that offer step-by-step guidelines on how to benefit and save money by going green. www.gbb.org.

The Green Business Bureau (GBB) was founded with the vision of helping small-to-medium sized business owners implement sustainability practices that result in benefits, such as costsavings, ROI and additional marketing opportunities. Co-founded by Marcos J. Cordero, LEED AP, the

RecycleMatch is a leading enterprise software company that assists companies in accelerating their zero waste initiatives and helps ensure they receive maximum value for their materials. RecycleMatch provides a web-based platform enabling companies to manage and track waste and recyclable materials and to sell materials via private and public marketplaces. www.recycle match.com.

irst Thursdays are reserved for Mid Main, that group of fab Main Street merchants that stretch across 3622 Main in South Midtown, known for their underground nightlife, cool shops and good eats. Add a note to your iCal or whatever you use to remind you where there's a good time for food, music and a little windowshopping. My Flaming Heart might be hosting a fabulous art exhibit mixed with one-of-akind treasures. Sig's Lagoon will be open for all music swamp rats. Chick & Chica might be offering sangria, chips and salsa. Shop-o-Rama could have a cold Lone Star waiting for you along with a great discount off a leisure suit or a feather boa in their "gently used, but not abused" finds. Taco's a Go Go won't have Tai but has you covered for Tex Mex until 10 p.m., domestic beers for $1 and imported beers for $2. We've lost track of how many versions of burgers Natachee's has to offer, so count and get back to us. And last but not least... The Continental Club. Thursdays are free happy hour and always Beetle until 10 p.m. The music's always changing so check out www.continentalclub.com. Mid Main has their own website –www.3622main.com.

etamorphocise offers Mixed Martial Arts, Karate, Belly Dancing, Kickboxing, and of course, PT (a personal training class that helps those of you that DO NOT know your way around the gym.) For a limited time only, join Metamorphocise for only $25 down and $20.11 a month. NO CONTRACT! Another option is coming soon – A training session without the trainer but just as effective and 65- 85% less expensive depending on the program you choose. Call 713-942-7400 and sign up today.

ouston Academy for International Studies (HAIS) will have 20 students graduate high school with their Associate's Degree

onduct your next computer training at the UH Small Business Development Center where you will find the  latest equipment and technology in comfortable surroundings. The spacious labs are equipped with networked computers with wireless internet. Call Toni at 713-7528446 or email meetingsolutions@uh.edu.

kay, Midtown, grab your sneakers and head out the door for the newest concept in fitness.   Nightclub Cardio® is an exercise class in a nightclub. The cardio dance party fuses exercise with fun dance moves. The easy-to-follow steps allow you to focus on having fun and working up a sweat without learning complex choreography. Every Wednesday at Rich's (2401 San Jacinto)  6-7:30 p.m.

hange from “C” to “B”. CTRL Gallery has changed their name to Bryan Miller Gallery. Gallery hours are Tuesday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Take a look at www.bryanmillergallery.com.

rban Oasis Day Spa,3201 Louisiana – Suite 106, has added Fantasy Tan to their list of great services. Call for your appointment – 281-476-9990.

treet light out at your corner? Write down the six-digit pole number, located six to seven feet high on the pole, and report to 713-2077777. Street sign name missing? Email location to info@houstonmidtown.com.

top by Julia’s on Thursdays for “Tapas y Salsa.” You’ll find great tastes like Arepas con Espinaca, Julia’s signature pan-fried corn meal fritters and Salmon en Joyo de Ajo followed by the Latin sounds of DeeJay III-Set and a little salsa dancing. Drink specials, too. The Ensemble/HCC METRORail stops just a few doors down from Julia’s front door, 3722 Main.

he new Lafont Collection has arrived at T S O Midtown. The style is “quintessential Parisian chic with a twist of playfulness, with exquisite attention to design and details.” Lafont frames, with their wide range of colors and truly unique

3 celsius European Wine Bar & Café’s Mike Sammons recently participated in the city’s Iron Sommelier Competition. Proceeds from the event benefitted The Periwinkle Foundation, a non-profit organization that develops and provides programs that positively change the lives of children, young adults and families who are challenged by cancer and other life threatening illnesses, cared for at Texas Children's Hospital. Enjoy Sunday Specials at 13 Celsius, European Wine Bar & Café (3000 Caroline) with 50% off all open bottles from the weekend.

l Patio Midtown’s Happy Hour does more than quench your thirst. Take your choice of Tamales, Chicken Quesadillas, Nachos Villa Sana or their Campechana - seafood cocktail with shrimp, crab meat, roasted tomatoes and vegetables, blended together with a special mixture of Mexican spices. Happy Hour Monday thru Friday, 3-6:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m – 6:30 p.m. (Submit your photos to photos@elpatio.com. You might win a gift certificate to any of their two locations.) El Patio Midtown is located at 2416 Brazos.

ouston Center for Contemporary Craft is pleased to name ceramic artist Piero Fenci the 2012 Texas Master. He is the fourth artist to receive this honor, awarded to established career artists working in Texas who have made a significant impact in the craft field. Following in the footsteps of former Texas Masters, Harlan Butt, Cindy Hickok and Rachelle Thiewes, Fenci was chosen for his outstanding involvement in the Texas craft community, his dedication and excellence in teaching, the innovative qualities of his work, and his exceptional craftsmanship. As the next Texas Master, Fenci will receive a solo show in the summer of 2012, a printed color catalog of the show, and will serve as a juror of the CraftTexas 2014 exhibition.

areer and Recovery Resources, Inc. (CRR) recently celebrated their 15th Annual Barrier Breaker Luncheon, honoring Houstonians Jack and Ellie Sweeney for their outstanding community involvement. CRR is a nonprofit United Way agency that helps individuals identify and overcome barriers to employment. In 2009, CRR assisted over 9,000 adults and helped nearly 12,000 youth through a variety of activities.

y Fit Fitness offers free fitness assessments the first Saturday of each month as well as a free “get fit” class for kids. Stop by the family-owned, family-friendly business at 4715 Main or call 713-465-0550.

idtown Management District’s Plant & Pedal 2011 “spruced up” Elizabeth Baldwin Park and the area along Elgin Street, from Hamilton to LaBranch. Midtown Community Garden gardeners pitched in to help, as did the veterans from U. S. Veterans Initiative who came out to volunteer. Thanks to all.

ongratulations to Charivari European Restaurant as they celebrate their 11th year in Midtown. Chef Johann Schuster is known for his amazing cuisine and his restaurant’s impeccable whitetablecloth ambiance. Wednesday through Saturday evenings, 6-9 p.m., enjoy the musical stylings of pianist, Jahrel Pickins.   Charivari is located at  2521 Bagby at McGowen.

ongratulations to Houston Center for Contemporary Craft’s (HCCC) Anna Walker, promoted from Curatorial Fellow to Curator. See the Calendar (page 7) for what’s happening at HCCC.

Photo by RenaissancemaN Photography

oted Houston Wine consultant Sterling Minor has named Damian’s among the 20 Top Restaurants for Wine. And did you know D a m i a n ’s offers a theatre shuttle bus that can deliver you right to the door of Wortham Center, Jones Hall and the Alley Theatre? Their private shuttle bus departs Damian's 30 minutes prior to curtain (for example, the bus will depart at 7:30 p.m. for performances starting at 8 p.m.) and picks you up after the show and returns you to your vehicle at Damian's. Stay for a dessert and a true Italian cappuccino.The airconditioned shuttle bus is only for dining guests. Reservations are required.

ed at a national Black Belt level in Sambo, Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has won numerous events in various sports, led the seminar and helped participants improve their skills while raising money for those in need. The fundraiser was held at Elite MMA in Houston, which offers many classes and one-on-one training in various disciplines of martial arts. (www.elite-mma.com) The American Red Cross also offers an avenue for those wishing to support those affected by natural disasters. Go to www.redcross.org, click on “Donate”.

Work by Piero Fenci

he Houston Technology Future Fund announced today their proposal to raise $100 million in venture funding for selected early-stage technologies being developed within a 30-county region. The Fund will provide equity for revolutionary technologies in the aerospace, energy, information technology, life sciences and nanotechnology sectors. The purpose of the Fund is to provide capital for companies to take their early-stage technologies to the marketplace. The Fund will work in concert with the Houston Technology Center, a Special Limited Partner of the Fund.

frame shapes, are simply works of art. See for yourself with a visit to TSO Midtown, 4850 Main.

l to r: Dr. Vernon Swisher, Ellie & Jack Sweeney

in&about Check out what's happened, is happening and will happen... It’s all about Midtown!

from Houston Community College – Central (HCCCentral) this year as well as students on scholarships to the Model United Nations summit in NYC and to Egypt, Slovenia and China,Australia and Europe for travel and study. HAIS is a Houston Independent School District charter school located in Midtown on the campus of the former J.Will Jones Elementary School. Students in grades 11 and 12 are able to earn both high school and college credit by taking HCC-Central classes.

udos to Midtown resident Forrest Flanary who recently organized a fundraiser for the US – Japan Council Earthquake Relief Fund, raising over $1,500 in just a few hours through a unique “Leg-Lock Seminar.” Flanary, who compet-

on-profits Houston Center for Contemporary Craft and Lawndale Art Center were recently honored with checks representing proceeds from the 2011 Bayou City Art Festival. Both Midtown art centers gave generously of their time and talents during the recent Festival.

o you have a friend or business associate that will be staying in Houston for awhile? Offer them Metro Midtown Apartment Homes. Metro Midtown, in addition to being a great full time living option, also partners with Marriott ExecuStay, the corporate and temporary housing option for those with stays of 30 days or longer. The one and two bedroom apartments are furnished with all the amenities, incorporating Marriott’s high standards of comfort and quality. Rates include rent, furnishings, utilities, Wi-Fi, cable and housekeeping. For reservations, call 214-574-480.

allery Sonja Roesch will be participating in Art Santa Fe 2011, July 7 – 10.Art Santa Fe provides the ultimate art experience, combining works from contemporary galleries from around the world, cutting edge art installations and emerging artists and dealers. The 11th annual event will be held at the Santa Fe Convention Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

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verything is growing like mad,” says Midtown Community Garden Director Steve Scholl. “We have tons of amazing tomatoes, squash, eggplant, and peppers. Our Community Squash Patch is massively out of control, but very healthy. Our Community Corn Patch is gorgeous, and we will likely have a corn roasting feast soon for the Members.” Eight names are on the waitlist to join.

win-win at YogaOne Studios! Rise early on Saturday and Sunday and head over to either of YogaOne’s Midtown locations for a free yoga class at 8 a.m. Teachers in training need you for feedback as they practice their new skills. Classes are open for all levels and are free.  YogaOne - Hot Yoga  3030 Travis  Flow Factory - Flow Yoga  3225 Milam.   For details, call 713-522-0876.

oin YogaOne Studios for a week long retreat of yoga, fun in the sun, relaxation and bliss right on the beach in Tulum, Mexico along the beautiful Rivera Maya, a 1.5-hour drive south of Cancun at the beautiful, eco-conscious Maya Tulum Resort. The yoga will be vinyasa and appropriate for all levels. Sign up for the November 5-12 experience by calling 713-522-0876.

D C

id you know…Sushi Raku, Houston’s premier sushi bar, receives weekly shipments from Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market? Taste for yourself at 3201 Louisiana, Suite 101.

oaches Pub Midtown will take you to First Base with their appetizers, Second Base with their Main Event or Third Base with their Lite Fare. Home Base is reserved for desserts! Breakfast, too – their PreGame is served on Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Lunch specials are served daily. Coaches Pub Midtown, 2204 Louisiana at Webster.

rt Square Studios’ artist Susan Spjut (featured in our First Qtr 2011 “It’s time for Art in Midtown”) was a recent finalist for the coveted 2011 Hunting Art Prize. The prestigious annual competition is open to established artists, newcomers, and amateurs, Sponsored by the international oil services company Hunting PLC, the $50,000 award is historically the most generous annual award in North America for painting and drawing and is open to Texas artists 18 years of age or older. Artists can register at www.huntingartprize.com.

eru Gourmet Tours is offering a trip to Peru with, September 16 -25, 2011, with great savings.   The tour’s regular price is $2650- but for a limited time, the cost has been reduced to $2250. Tour Director Pablo Valqui, Food Buyer of Spec’s Liquor and Finer Foods in Houston, is a Peruvian political scientist that has extensive experience with the food and beverage business, as well as leading travel groups in

Peru, Germany and Europe. Learn more about Pablo and the great stops on the tour at www. perugourmet tours.com.

urely you know about the turtle races at Little Woodrow’s? What about their Micheladas and Frozen Mimosas? If you don’t know, maybe it’s time to stop by. The once auto repair shop at 2306 Brazos is THE place to be as the summer only gets hotter.

aiting babies and young sibling groups in CPS custody need loving foster parents like you. Interested couples or singles can attend one of several upcoming informational meetings held at Catholic Charities, 2900 Louisiana. Contact Barbara Feliciano, Adoption Recruiter at 713-874-6597 or access the “agency calendar” at www.catholiccharities.org.

nline Doggy announced the release of mobile Apps for the iPhone, Blackberry and Android OS. Check on your furry friend at Midtown’s Urban Tails. Search for “ODoggy” in the App store. Cost is $4.99/ year to download and view the cameras. Online Doggy also offers a $1.99 30-day option so you can download the App before purchasing. Urban Tails is also a beta test site for Knowing Dogs, the newest and best pet care training program developed to provide dog language and safe play techniques to all pet care staff. Owner Susan Briggs is a developer of the program and the content is based on Off-Leash Dog Play, a book authored by Briggs. The program will be introduced nationally in the fall of 2011.

ouston Works USA has been awarded more than $120,000 in technological upgrades from the Hewlett-Packard Company (HP) (NYSE: HPQ). Serving more than 1 million annually, HoustonWorks USA provides job seekers with a variety of workshops including job search techniques, interviewing skills and resume writing, or use of the resource library with Internet access and postings of local, state and national job openings. Larry V. Green, CEO, HoustonWorks USA. “With this investment from HP, residents will have a significant technological advantage in securing job opportunities.”

njoy lunch at Coco's.  Experience the Coco Combo that includes their famous Medium Panini or any savory crepe with chips and a soft drink for $8…add soup or salad for $2.50 more . Enjoy the patio with free Wi-Fi and a great view in the heart of Midtown, 218 Gray at Baldwin.

he Houston Community College Central Barnes & Noble Bookstore has opened, located on the first floor of the Business Career Center Building. For more information call 713-528-0872 or visit www.hccs.bkstore.com.

016 Mainstage takes the “perfect mix of partying patrons” (ages 21 to 50+) with the perfect music – everything from 70s and 80s Funk to Indy to Hip Hop. Add some ample free parking and three fully stocked bars and you’ll ask yourself why you’re going to those “other places.” CJ Ramone of the Ramones will get the party started on July 17. 2016 Mainstage is located at 2016 Main.

hristmas in July? It's not too early to start planning your holiday celebrations. Damian’s Cucina Italiana is the ideal location for events, whether the office holiday party,

family celebration or a gathering with friends. Their Old World Tuscan private rooms can handle functions of all sizes, for seated full-service meals, cocktail receptions with passed hors d’oeuvres or an elegant buffet. Damian’s catering professionals can assist with your party needs, from soup to nuts – literally and figuratively! For menu information and to schedule a tour, call JoAnn DeNicola at 713-522-0439 or visit www.damians.com.

Midtown

Houston, TX 77002.

he EnsembleTheatre is conveniently located along the METRORail line at the Ensemble/ HCC stop. Bring your METRO Q Card to the theatre for a buy one get one free offer on tickets to their season finale musical “Blues in the Night.” (Q Card must be current).

ive yourself something to smile about! Enjoy your brightest smile ever with $100 off inoffice whitening at Brian G. Martinez, DDS. 713523-6848. Offer ends 9/30/11. Check them out on Facebook for additional specials.

pace is still available for Session Two of the The Ensemble Theatre’s 2011 Young Performers Program. The four-week opportunity runs from July 5 through July 30. For more info, call 713-807-4309.

id Town Surgical Center is an ambulatory surgical center, specializing in hernia repair, orthopedics, pain management and podiatry. Outpatients have access to a variety of healthcare specialists in a relaxed, less crowded environment. Free parking and easy access are also perks. Call 713691-6000 to learn more.

ave you passed by Lawndale recently and seen the work in progress? Artist Daniel Anguilu is transforming Lawndale's north exterior wall into a mural for the 2011-2012 exhibition season. Anguilu's work can be found throughout Houston, including locations in the East End and most recently on Midtown's MHMRA building. Non-toxic paint for the project is provided by New Living and The Green Painter. Anguilu’s project at Lawndale will open this August to kick off Lawndale’s 2011-2012 season and remain on view through June 2012.

top by Ambassador Shoe Repair, 2204 Main, and wish them “Happy Anniversary.” The Midtown business is celebrating 60 years on Main Street, originating long before Midtown was even Midtown! As a thank-you to their customers, old and new, they are offering a 10% discount off all repairs with a mention of the Midtown Paper. Hours are M-F 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

ive 13 celsius’ refreshing summer drink options like Sangria and Micheladas a try. There are also rotating special beers on tap. While you’re there, ask about their monthly wine classes, tastings and special weekend deals on select, allocated wines. Watch for their new blog to be unveiled soon, but in the interim, follow on Twitter and Facebook. Don’t forget to check out Midtown on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube.

meetings... At Midtown Management District (MMD) & Redevelopment Authority, offices: 410 Pierce St., Suite 355,

Please call ahead (713-526-7577) to confirm time and dates or visit: houstonmidtown.com

Midtown Management District Board Meeting Jul. 6 (11 a.m.) Aug. 3 (6 p.m. @ Central Bank–2217 Milam) Sep. 7 (11 a.m.) Midtown Redevelopment Authority Board Meeting Please check dates online Public Safety Committee Jul. 19, Aug. 16 @ 11:30 a.m. Sep. 20 (6 p.m. @ Central Bank–2217 Milam) Marketing Committee Jul. 12, Aug. 9, Sep. 13 Second Tuesday of each month @ 4 p.m. Urban Planning Committee Jul. 14 Aug. 11, Sep. 15 Second Thursday of each month @ 4 p.m.

Services and Maintenance Committee As needed. Please check online. Baldwin Square Homeowners Association (HOA) Jul. 13, Aug. 10, Sep. 14 Second Wednesday of each month @ 4 p.m.

meetings offsite HPD – Positive Interaction Program (PIP) East side of Louisiana

Jul. 19, Aug. 16, Sep. 20 3rd Tuesday of each month @ 7 p.m. Held @ HPD South Central Division 2202 St. Emanuel @ Hwy 288 Officer J. Sanchez 713-238-2282 HPD – Positive Interaction Program (PIP) West side of Louisiana

Jul. 27, Aug. 24, Sep. 28 4th Wednesday of each month @ 7 p.m. Held @ HPD Central Division, 1602 State St. Officer Wayne Pate 713-284-8604

Reap Rewards Bagby Street at Houston Re-Market shopping, swapping and recycling

ouston Re-Market makes it easy to be green with their monthly market that combines shopping, swapping and recycling. Bright blue recycling barrels are on hand for plastics #1-5 and 7, aluminum, tin/bi-metal, glass, paper, cardstock and cardboard. Vendors offer their artwork and handmade crafts made of reused and recycled materials. Trade your “unwanted” with a “wanted” with their free swap option. Music adds to the festive atmosphere along with the H-town StrEATS food truck dishing out North Carolina Pulled

Pork Sandwich with Chow Chow and Watermelon Aguas Frescas. Operating from a parking lot at 2850 Fannin, the Market also opens its space to garage sales. A 10 X 10 space rents for $10/ market. For more info, call Paloma Garner at remarkethouston@gmaiil.com or call 832-721-3571. Houston Re-Market is “open” each third Saturday of the month, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Upcoming Market dates include July 16, August 20 and September 17. Houston Re-Market, 2850 Fannin, is right off the METRORail stop at Main & McGowen.

Catch the Wave in Midtown

Houston’s first permitted jitney services in 15 years

he Wave is on a mission to change Houstonian’s transportation options. Lauren Barrash is owner of The Wave, Houston’s first permitted jitney services in 15 years. Ride the wave and get dropped off right in front of your favorite destination along the established routes. The Wave services almost all areas inside Loop 610. There’s also free parking at the southwest corner of Memorial and Houston Ave, LOT H and at Pizzatolas BBQ on Shepherd. Cost is $10/night for unlimited rides or $5/one way – much cheaper than a Houston cab. To be picked up call The Wave phone,

713-863-WAVE (9283) with your location and a Wave Runner will be there as soon as possible. Don’t forget to present your nightly Wave bracelet for discounts, specials, and deals at many of the businesses along our routes. A limited # of VIP membership are also available providing members unlimited rides all month, and gift cards valued at over $120 to many of Houston area businesses and events. Planning a big party, girl's night out, boy's night out, a company outing, birthday party, charity pub crawl? Take the safer route with The Wave. thehoustonwave.com facebook.com/houstonwave twitter.com/thehoustonwave.

Want to REV? Ride Electric Vehicles

EV, (Ride Electric Vehicles) offers FREE rides in the Downtown and Midtown neighborhoods. REV Move

People. Each one of the Eco-Shuttles has room for five passengers not including the driver.The vehicles are quiet, energy efficient and produce zero emissions. Eco-Shuttles are street legal lowspeed vehicles made by GEM a division of Chrysler. REV began out of a desire to get

people where they need to be, using innovation, technology and a little bit of creativity to make service affordable and convenient. For your next Midtown trip, consider an Eco-Shuttle. Call 877-4673846 or text REV to Qtags or email ride@ REVHouston.com. Their gratuitybased service can be paid by cash, credit card, or a prepaid key tag. When you ride in an Eco-Shuttle, or any other vehicle, please remember to buckle-up, it is the law!

midtown Reconstruction Project

idtown Management District’s recent quarterly meeting (May 4, 2011) included a presentation of the proposed Bagby Street Reconstruction Project. The project includes the reconstruction of Bagby Street from St. Joseph to Tuam including public utility upgrades. The goal of the project is to provide an enhanced pedestrian environment and an improved vehicular connection for southbound traffic through Midtown. Pierce Street, from Baldwin Street to Brazos Street, will also be rebuilt as part of the project Incorporating sustainable design was an integral part of Design Workshop’s and Walter P. Moore’s reconstruction vision, including a higher level of sustainability in road construction as well as incorporating landscape features that are not only attractive but help filter stormwater runoff. Design Workshop is responsible for crafting the overall landscape vision for the project that includes the back of curbs to the edge of the right-of-ways. Walter P. Moore will be providing engineering solutions, design of the roadway and utilities. Stormwater, in the past, has been conventionally dealt with by a curb and gutter and concrete pipe system through which water is flushed into the bayou. This age old process carries pollutants as well as erosion as water is carried quickly on its path. Rain gardens use plant material and soils to help cleanse and filtrate water back into the water table. “Rain gardens are designed as nature had intended,” explains Design Workshop’s Steven Spears. “Stormwater goes into depressions between the curb and the sidewalk, filtrating through soil or plants that will cleanse and absorb the water as it makes it way to the bayou.The stormwater irrigates the plants and in many cases,

Living Co-Operatively

becomes completely absorbed, thereby preventing excessive runoff.” Plant selections are equally important, explains Spears. Landscape Architects choose plants that are natural to the area; in Houston’s situation able to withstand droughts and deluge. Plants for the Bagby Street project are still being determined, however, the hardy, water-loving Bald Cypress trees are a sure choice to border the new sidewalks within the rain gardens. Greenroads are part of the new plan, as well. A Greenroad is defined as a roadway project that has been designed and constructed to a level of sustainability that is substantially higher than current common practice. Similar to LEED certification, Greenroad is a sustainability performance metric for roadways that awards points for more sustainable practices. Once completed, Bagby Street could be awarded the silver level, being the first Greenroad certification in Houston. Greenroad is a publicly available system that can be used by anyone. Other plans include a pedestrian shaded boardwalk between Hadley and Gray and the replacement of old and under capacity utilities The Midtown RedevelopmentAuthority/ TIRZ #2, Walter P. Moore and Design Workshop hosted the presentation as well as listened to feedback from residents and stakeholders. The project is now awaiting final approval from the city. Construction is expected to begin in September with completion taking one year. The Midtown Management District is located at 410 Pierce St., Suite 355, Houston, Texas 77002. For more information, visit Midtown on Facebook and Twitter. To get weekly news about Midtown, sign up for the eNewsletter at www.houstonmidtown.com. from page 1

cued 1934 hardwood floors, and stairs from a building torn down in Montrose, were all quickly repurposed. Tile, kitchen cabinet doors, a wrought iron fence and varieties of electrical necessities including outlets, switches and fixtures, were put to good use. Food is not a problem with the onsite garden and shared expenses of groceries. Demographics for the Rosalie HAUS are professionals, age 24 to early 40s, with a common purpose of reducing our carbon footprint. Co-op member and investor Paul Schechter has a Masters Degree in Sustainable Living. Crossley works with Houston Tomorrow on urbanization and sustainable living in Houston. Jung left corporate America to start Sustainable Awareness, a company focused on the education of sustainable development. The Rosalie HAUS is about coming home to friends versus coming home to an empty apartment. It’s the sense of community and the joy of a hot meal prepared in a big kitchen and placed on a table where everyone gathers to share the highs and lows of the day as well as ideas for a better future. “It’s really important in Houston that you meet different economic models,” says Jung. “We’re providing something Houston doesn’t have.” To learn more about the HAUS Project, go to www.hausproject.org. FYI... Sustainable Houston and New Living host a monthly speaker series the first Wednesday of each month (6:30 – 8 p.m.) Local business leaders share their thoughts on sustainability as it applies to business, the environment and the community. For more info on Sustainable Houston, visit www.sustainablehouston.org/sustainability.html

® ®

Live, Learn, Work and Play... the Midtown Way

RESTAURANTS / BARS A1. 13 Celsius 713-529-VINO (8466) A2. Brennan’s 713-522-9711 A3. Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar 713-650-0002 A4. CoCo's Crepes & Coffee 713-521-0700 A5. Crave Sushi 713-527-8744 A7. Ibiza Food & Wine Bar 713-524-0004 A8. Luigi’s Pizzeria 281-793-3333 A9. Piola 713-524-8222 A10. Pub Fiction 713-400-8400 A11. Rich’s Houston 713-759-9606 A12. Sushi Raku 713-526-8885 A13. Sweet Lola Yogurt Bar 713-521-1333

HOUSES OF WORSHIP / NONPROFITS E1. Career & Recovery Resources Inc. 713-754-7000 E2. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston 713-526-4611 E3. First Evangelical Lutheran Church 713-529-3589 E4. Holy Rosary Parish 713-529-4854 E5. South Main Baptist Church 713-529-4167 E6. St. John's Downtown / Bread of Life 713-659-3237 E7. SEARCH Homeless Center 713-739-7752 E8. Trinity Episcopal Church 713-528-4100 E9. The Salvation Army Family Residence 713-650-6530

F10 A4

F11 B9

A13 G2

F10

H14

F10

F8 F7

SERVICES / RETAIL B1. Ambassador Shoe Repair H1 713-659-0161 B2. Art Supply on Main 713-652-5028 B3. BCP Veterinary Pharmacy 713-771-1144 B5. Brian Martinez, DDS, PA 713-523-6848 B8. Kwik Kopy Business Solutions 713-526-6364 B9. Midtown Management District 713-526-7577 B10. Midtown Surgical Center 713-691-6000 B11. Norhill Realty 713-449-2416 B13. Randall’s Food & Pharmacy 713-331-1042 B15. St. Joseph Medical Plaza 713-961-5900 B16. Spec’s Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods 713-526-8787 B17. Stewart Cadillac 713-874-0900 B18. TSO Museum District 713-523-5109 B19. Urban Tails Pet Center 713-658-0900 B20. YogaOne Studios 713-522-0876

A10

B13

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D1 F3 D2

F3 H2

G4 H9

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A12 A9

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Financial Institutions D1. Central Bank 832-485-2360 D2. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 713-533-1309

P1 H3 C1

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PARKS / PUBLIC SPACES P1. Elizabeth Baldwin Park P2. Houston Fire Station No. 7 P3. Midtown Park P4. Peggy’s Point Plaza Park

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C3 B18 H13 C5 B11

B19

CULTURAL ARTS C1. Community Artists' Collective 713-523-1616 C2. Gallery Sonja Roesch 713-659-5424 C3. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft 713-529-4848 C4. Kinzelman Art Consulting 713-533-9923 C5. Lawndale Art Center 713-528-5858 C7. Station Museum of Contemporary Art 713-529-6900 C8. The Ensemble Theatre 713-520-0055 C9. War’Hous Visual Studios 832-768-9515

B15

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DePelchin Faith Home Houston Fire Museum First Evangelical Lutheran Church Holy Rosary Church

H5. H6. H7. H8. H9.

C. L. House Building Houston Light Guard Armory Temple Beth Israel The Sheridan Apartments Benjamin Apartments

H10. Isabella Court H11. Trinity Episcopal Church H12. 13 celsius H13. Lawndale Art Center H14. Kirby Mansion

MIDTOWN LIVING OPTIONS F1. 2016 Main 713-659-1801 F2. Camden City Centre 713-651-0350 F3. Camden Midtown 713-652-9944 F5. Edge Condominium 281-687-8429 F7. METRO Midtown 713-529-5333 F8. Midtown Arbor Place 713-874-1313 F10. rise 713-523-5700 F11. Post Midtown Square Apartment Homes 713-739-7678 F12. Ventana at Midtown 713-550-9600 EDUCATION / Technology G1. Houston Academy for International Studies (HAIS) 713-942-1430 G2. Houston Technology Center 713-658-1750 G3. Houston Community College – Central 713-718-6000 G4. UH Small Business Development Center 713-752-8444

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The Joy of Self-Expression Who helping hands in midtown

By Elizabeth C. Searcy

Photo by Yvonne Feece Photography

uring a recent language arts class for children, a creto them. In addition, WITS summer camps are held at public ative exercise using items like coffee grounds and schools and cultural venues. salt-water taffy, acted as the genesis to teach the class Free workshops continue this summer until August 27 every about the five senses. Saturday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Houston Public Library “What does your country taste like?” the teacher asked.A child Express Branch at Discovery Green. happily responded, “My country tastes like lemonade because it’s During Houston’s previous school year, 18,000 children in so hot.” The teacher continued, using the student’s answer as a grades K-12 were served through WITS’ combined programs springboard, introducing concepts such as given a ‘voice’ through creative expression. hot and cold, which then led to a creative Both nonprofit organizations rely on private writing task. donations and grants to provide the vital Fun and thought provoking assignments revenues needed to sustain the programs like this are helping make a profound differand the teachers’ salaries. ence for elementary school children enrolled “There is a great need for individuals in a unique collaboration within the Refugee to come alongside these children and be Resettlement Program of Catholic Charities volunteer mentors,” explains Kai Houstonof the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Guy, After School Coordinator for Catholic (CCAGH). Together with Writers in the Charities. High school students are encourSchools (WITS), both 501 (c) (3) organizaaged to apply. tions are successfully helping children overA veteran elementary school teacher of come tough obstacles through teaching art, 16 years, Amy Williams teaches the WITS creative writing, computer literacy, language after-school program to 23 students. acquisition, and reading. “The children are creative, funny and car“The children in this program come from ing,” shares Ms. Williams. “Their attitudes are Burma, Congo, Ethiopia Nepal, and Thailand. just phenomenal!” "They are just becoming accustomed to our Eight-year old Michelle Miao, WITS student. School may be out but WITS programs are traditions. Some of them have never used a fork or cup before,” not on ‘vacation’. Ms. Watson sums up the reason. shares Jennifer Watson, Communications Manager for WITS. "Our summer program—much like our school year projects, The necessity and desire to communicate is essential. Since its offers an outlet for creative self-expression. It's a safe place to inception in 1983,WITS has been imparting the knowledge of the share their stories where their voices can be heard." written word and visual expression to children by bridging the gap Jennifer Watson where public programs have been eliminated and where children Communications Manager • Writers in the Schools are underserved. 1523 West Main, Houston, TX 77006 Programs are facilitated in a variety of settings such as juvenile 713-523-3877 • www.witshouston.org detention centers, reaching a wide segment of deserving, underKai Houston-Guy privileged children, and youth at risk. Collins Elementary houses After School Coordinator, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese the WITS/Catholic Charities school program, while teachers at of Galveston-Houston community centers provide literary and artistic wonderment to 2900 Louisiana, Houston, TX 77006 homeless children. Sick children in select hospitals have to look 713-523-3877 • www.catholiccharitieshouston.org no further than their own surroundings; the program comes

do I Call?

Emergency calls: 9-1-1 Non-Emergency Houston Service Help Line: (Traffic signals & signs, potholes, broken curbs, water leaks, etc.) Be sure to request a reference number. 3-1-1 or 713-837-0311 Midtown Management District 713-526-7577 City of Houston – Animal Control 713-229-7300 City of Houston – Public Works City of Houston – Public Utilities City of Houston – Solid Waste City of Houston – Curbs & Ditch City of Houston – Code Violations/ Neighborhood Protection City of Houston – Fire Marshall Enforcement 3-1-1 or 713-837-0311 www.houstontx.gov City of Houston Environmental Investigations 713-525-2728 CenterPoint (gas) 713-659-2111 Reliant Energy (electric) 713-207-7777 Non-working street light. Provide the 6-digit pole number (6-7 ft high on the pole)

AT&T (telephone) 1-800-464-7928 (new service) 1-800-246-8464 (repair) Comcast 713-462-9000 METRO Light Rail/Bus Schedules & Routing 713-635-4000 Police Dispatch (concerns along the rail/bus stops & HOV) 713-224-COPS (2677) Houston Police Department (HPD) (Non-Emergency) 713-884-3131 HPD Central Station 713-247-4400 HPD South Central Station 832-394-0200 Harris County Sheriff’s Dispatch 713-221-6000 Harris County Precinct 7 Dispatch 713-643-6602 Crime Stoppers 713-222-8477 Texas Poison Center Network 1-800-222-1222 Mayor’s Citizens’ Assistance Office 713-527-4002 mayor@cityofhouston.net James Rodriguez, City Council District I 832-393-3011 districti@houstonTX.gov Wanda Adams, City Council District D 832-393-3001 districtd@houstonTX.gov

Midtown Exotic cuisine from an old favorite

By Sara C. Strong

f you’ve been around Houston a while, chances are pretty good a Nit Noi restaurant served up your first taste of Thai food. Being one of the city’s oldest practitioners of the cuisine, the small familyowned group of eateries has inspired a lot of Thai-food cravings around town.

The Houston chapter of the Nit Noi story started in 1987, with a modest 16-table location on Bolsover in West U. But the tale actually reaches half a world away and back more than a decade, to an even more humble establishment in the Philippines that attracted a local clientele. That’s where the family began serving authentic Thai dishes. At the heart of the matter, devotees claim, is the famous Nit Noi sauce, still made by the original recipe. Hand prepared by founder “Mama Alice” at the Richmond Avenue kitchen and by her daughterin-law Malisa Heckler on Woodway, it is used throughout the Nit Noi chain, including the Midtown Café at 2020 Louisiana. Over the years in Houston, the enterprise has grown to eight Houston locations that are consistently voted among the city’s best purveyors of Thai food. Still owned by the original family (the second generation now does most of the management,) Nit Noi establishments divide into two groups. Around Houston there are five Nit Noi Thai restaurants, where the staff hopes you will linger over your dinner or lunch. And there are three smaller Nit Noi Cafés. These get-down-tobusiness establishments specialize in lunch and offer an abbreviated menu of the most popular Nit Noi dishes. The portions there are a bit smaller

and the prices a little lower than at their larger counterparts. Here in Midtown, the Nit Noi Café on Louisiana, in a free-standing building just northeast of Gray Street, can get crowded between 11:40 a.m. and 1 p.m. on weekdays, when downtown regulars drop in for a quick lunch. So avoid the peak lunch time if you can and enjoy your meal in a less intense surrounding. Off-peak arrival also promises a better chance at snagging one of the limited parking spots. Among the most popular dishes are various curry specialties and the Putt-Thai Korat, which is a stir-fried rice noodle plate with meat, eggs, sprouts and green onions.

Another choice bears the curious name of Thai Chili No Silly and can be ordered with beef, chicken, pork or tofu, duck, shrimp or squid. For an authentic taste of Thailand, servers suggest the Sweet Basil and Hot Pepper Now (that’s how that one’s named), which can be made with the same choices of meats or tofu as Thai Chili No Silly. Vegetarians often pick the Vegetable Delight or the Stir-fried Thai Eggplant with Garlic Sauce. This time of year, lovers of Thai desserts are in luck with the Glutinous Rice With Mango, which is served only in season. Glutinous Rice and Thai Custard is offered year around. It features a brown sugarand-coconut sauce.

Nit Noi Café 2020 Louisiana Between Gray Street and Interstate 45 713-652-5855 www.nitnoithai.com/midtown_location.php Mon –Thu 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Opens at noon on the weekend; closes at 10 p.m. on Sat, 9 p.m. on Sun. Avoid the peak weekday lunch hours, if you can. Note: Nit Noi Café restaurants offer a slightly lighter meal and lower price than their Nit Noi Thai siblings.

dining...

great places to eat!

Where (almost) everybody knows your name

By Sara C. Strong

f you’re looking for a neighborhood bar that feels like home, stop by Pub Fiction. Especially if you love sports. What’s that you’re saying? Your home doesn’t have 60 flat-screen TVs showing a dozen or more games, tournaments, races, sportscasts and classic matchups — all at once? Your kitchen doesn’t stock Ahi Tuna Salad or (surely you expected it) the Royale With Cheese? And dozens of your friends aren’t hanging around your shady 1,500square-foot deck, like, all the time? Maybe Pub Fiction isn’t as homey as we thought. Yeah, it’s lots better. The establishment, which just turned six years old, is the brainchild of KCH Entertainment. The initials are for Kosovo, Chicago and Houston.

The first two cities are the hometowns of founders and owners Michael Paolucci and Blini Hoxha. The pair also owns ShotBar, located across Bagby Street, and Ei8ht, on Washington Avenue. Pub Fiction was the first jewel in their entertainment crown. Later this summer, KCH will open a new place, Celtic Gardens (“beer garden meets Irish pub,” as Paolucci describes it) around the corner from Pub Fiction. Before year’s end, they plan to open Crisp, a wine bar in The Heights. As part of the recent renovation at Pub Fiction, Paolucci and Hoxha recruited chef Adam Puskorius to lift the menu far beyond typical bar grub.

Paolucci, who admits to being health-conscious, favors the turkey burger. Also on the menu are Goat Cheese with Marinara (a Paolucci family recipe), mesquite-smoked NY Strip Steak and Chef Adam’s favorite Crunchy Fish Tacos. Hoxha’s favorite is the Pub Fiction Reuben, a surprisingly all-American choice for a restaurateur with a life story that starts far away. The Kosovo native first came to Houston as a foreign exchange student at Aldine High. He and his brother were in the United States when war broke out at home. At one point, they could not reach their family or even know where they were. With help from Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, the brothers settled into Houston as part of a program for Kosovo refugees. And they started working hard. “I started my career as a bar back. That’s the bottom of the bottom,” Hoxha said with a laugh. “It’s like a bus boy for the bar.” He graduated through every job a bar could offer while he studied architecture at the University of Houston. “It was a little tense at the time,” Hoxha said. “We had to show we could support the family.” Eventually the young men brought over their mother and grandmother, aunt and uncle, and two cousins. For business partner Paolucci, hometown is the famous Windy City, which brings us back to all those TV screens at Pub Fiction. Aside from Houston’s local and regional games, guess what team pulls the

biggest crowds? “The Bears,” said Pub Fiction spokesperson Ali Moon. “Everyone knows one of the owners is from Chicago.” If your favorite team isn’t playing when you visit, just ask the staff. They can almost always squeeze in one more sports screen amid the easy, laidback come-and-go, watchthe-game, hang-out-on-the-patio Pub Fiction.

Pub Fiction 2303 Smith @ Hadley 713-400-8400 www.pubfiction.com Open 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., everyday Open for lunch. Full-menu kitchen service until 11 p.m.

calendar of events Mike Venable. “Clustered Paintings”. Gallery Sonja Roesch.

ONGOING

hru July 24. “Blues In the Night.” The Ensemble Theatre concludes its 2010-2011 season with an array of Blues songs that tell the story of three women’s relationships with one snake of a guy. The interweaving stories feature the memorable sounds of Bessie Smith through Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer/Harold Arlen, Alberta Hunter, Jimmy Cox, Ida Cos and more. The evening’s music is raunchily forthright, infectiously good humored and always classically Blues. Performances Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only. The Ensemble Theatre.

hru July 30. “Arline Fisch: Creatures from the Deep”. This summer, visitors are invited to explore a beautiful world of shimmering wire jellyfish in “Arline Fisch: Creatures from the Deep.” Fisch’s use of knitting and crocheting techniques creates larger-than-life sea creatures made of wire. HCCC is pleased to host the touring version of this exhibition, which transforms the small gallery into a tranquil underwater world, with floating jellyfish of different colors and shapes. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft.

hru July 30. Myke Venable “Clustered Paintings.” Venable takes the basic building blocks of painting, shape and color and rearranges them into surprising and delightful combinations. The artist’s current work, dealing with clusters of acrylic painted canvases, creates opportunity for each composition to produce a unique energy. Gallery Sonja Roesch.

hru August 5. “Evolutionaries: Art & Healing.” Central Art Gallery invites the Houston Community College community and their Houston neighbors for a national juried exhibit. Artists are often at the forefront of any (r)evolutionary movement, and many have an intuitive understanding of the body-mind-soul connection. These 'Evolutionaries' foster a self-aware, life-affirming, directions for themselves and their communities and work individually and collectively to become a conscious force for evolution on all levels. There are 35 artists from across the country represented in the exhibit, including 22 from Texas. For details, see In The Gallery Now at www.central.hccs.edu. The Gallery is in Central's Fine Arts Center, 3517 Austin at Holman in Midtown. Gallery hours are Mon - Thu 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., Fri – 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. For more information call 713-718-6600.

Michael Velliquette. “Propeller”. Courtesy of the artist and David Shelton Gallery.

hru August 13. “Joan Son - Part Geometry, Part Zen: A Personal Exploration through Paper.” Celebrated paper and origami artist Joan Son focuses on the themes of the elements found in nature—fire, water, earth and air. Known for her large-scale installations of origami butterflies, Son has covered the walls of the Artist Hall with nearly 500 butterflies. In addition to this colorful installation, the exhibit features sculptural and traditional artworks made throughout the Houston artist's career. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft.

hru August 26. “COL • LAGE.” A group exhibition featuring a diverse collection of contemporary artists working in the broad medium of collage. The majority of the artists are Texas-based including Julie Brook Alexander, Krista Birnbaum, Peter Hite, Lance Letscher, Kelly O’Connor, Jim Richard, Al Souza, Dan Sutherland, The Art Guys, Patrick Turk and Ellen Frances Tuchman. Also included in the exhibition are Kathryn Dunlevie, Scott Gordon, Betsy Odom and Michael Velliquette who all have strong Texas ties. Organized by Kinzelman Art Consulting. Works loaned courtesy of the artists, Barry Whistler Gallery, David Shelton Gallery, Hooks-Epstein Galleries, Inman Gallery, Koelsch Gallery, McClain Gallery and Moody Gallery. Weekday viewing from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Bank of America Center Lobby, 700 Louisiana.

hru September 3. “Crafting Live(s): 10 Years of Artists-in-Residence.” As part of its 10th anniversary, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) presents Crafting Live(s), the first alumni exhibition of its Artist Residency Program. This show celebrates the relatively short, yet rich, history of the program, which was the motivating force behind the institution’s founding in 2001. Approximately 35 former artists-in-residence chose to participate in the exhibition, working with guest curator Keelin Burrows, Windgate Charitable Foundation Curatorial Fellow at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft.

july

-30.  “The Big Show.”  The Big Show is Lawndale Art Center’s annual open-call, juried exhibition. Emerging and under-represented Houston area artists have gained exposure since the show’s conception in 1984. The Big Show was formerly the East End Show, sponsored by the East End Progress

A list of Midtown’s Events

Dandee Danao. “No Smurfin’ Way”. War’Hous Visual Studios.

Association, at Lawndale’s original location. Opening Reception July 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Lawndale Art Center.

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) kicks off its Martini Madness! 10th Birthday Bash with a swanky summer soiree hosted by Alto LaDay, Libbie masterson and Judy Nyquist. Must RSVP by July 11, 2011 to events@crafthouston.org.

showcase contemporary work from the most innovative, progressive and driven artists from around the world. Applications for “Texas Contemporary” will be (were) accepted and reviewed by an advisory committee led by Kerry Inman of Inman Gallery, Fredericka Hunter of Texas Gallery and Catharine Clark of Catharine Clark Gallery.

Annual Membership Meeting of the Houston Fire Museum. An Open House officially unveiling the museum's new exhibits will be the highlight of the evening's program. Houston Fire Museum. 6:30 p.m.

august

“No Smurfin’ Way!” Dandee Warhol’s first solo show is a nostalgic approach that will bring back childhood memories using the colorful blue characters, the Smurfs. The exhibition is FREE and family-friendly. All levels of generations will enjoy this trip back in time and will leave with a joyful feeling. For more information, please visit www. Dandee2k.com and www.warhous.com. War’Hous Visual Studios.

september

-18. Houston Fine Art Fair. A “first” for Houston, this gathering of galleries from across the globe will place their works in the expansive George R. Brown Convention Center. Houston Fine Art Fair is expecting 10,000+ art collectors and enthusiasts, curators and arts professionals to attend the three-day fair. At time of print, applications were still being accepted. Check www.hegshows. com as the event nears for a list of exhibiting Midtown galleries.

“Martini Madness! 10th Birthday Bash.” Houston Center for Contemporary Craft’s (HCCC) fabulous cocktail party features mad glassware, bottomless martinis, sizzling snacks, live music by Two Star Symphony and Lisa E. Harris Trio, and a chic mid-century theme (think fashions inspired by the ‘50s and ‘60s—a la “Mad Men.”) HCCC.

october

-23. “Texas Contemporary.” Texas Contemporary will open with its inaugural exhibition at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Featuring presentations from 50 galleries, “Texas Contemporary” will

Lawndale Art Center

how to find them...

Art Palace 3913 Main, 77002 (Ensemble/HCC Rail Stop). 281-501-2964 • artpalace.com Bryan Miller Gallery 3907 Main, 77002 713-523-2875 • ctrlgallery.com Gallery Sonja Roesch 2309 Caroline, 77004 713-659-5424 • gallerysonjaroesch.com Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) 4848 Main, 77002 713-529-4848 • crafthouston.org HCC-Central Heinen Theatre, The Gallery, Theatre One 3517 Austin, 77004 Fine Arts Office: 713-718-6600; Box Office: 713-718-6570 Inman Gallery 3901 Main Street, 77002 713-526-7800 • inmangallery.com Lawndale Art Center 4912 Main, 77002 713-528-5858 • lawndaleartcenter.org Philomena Gabriel Contemporary (PG Contemporary) 3227 ½ Milam, 77002 713-523-7424 • pgcontemporary.com Station Museum of Contemporary Art 1502 Alabama, 77004 713-529-6900 • stationmuseum.com The Ensemble Theatre 3535 Main, 77002 METRORail: Ensemble/HCC Station 713-520-0055 • www.ensemblehouston.org War’Hous Visual Studios 4715 Main Street, 77002 832-768-9515 • www.warhous.com

Dragons and A Smash Hit! Drums and Ribbons, Oh My! art in the park 2011 Mai’s grand re-opening

ai’s Restaurant, complete with colorful costumes and traditions, recently held it’s grand re-opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.The event started with Midtown’s Cynthia Alvarado reading an official proclamation from the mayor declaring April 16th, 2011 as Mai’s Day in Houston. Afterwards, Mai Nguyen gave a heartfelt and tearful speech, thanking Houstonians for their support and encouragement over the past fourteen months, and talked about how important the restaurant has been to her family. Her mother and grandmother watched on with great pride. A representative from City Council spoke along with several Houston firefighters who fought the restaurant’s devastating fire in 2010. Following the speeches, Mai cut a ceremonial ribbon on the front door followed by the sound of drums marking the beginning of the dragon dance. For the event, there were a series of poles setup in front of the restaurant with each set progressively getting higher in the air (probably up to eight feet tall) Before we knew it, teams of dancers wearing a dragon costume were jumping between the poles while operating their costume that blinked, had an

Photos and Story by Brian Warwick

open-and- close mouth, and a tail that wagged. With drums and cymbals banging, other dragon dancers started dancing around the crowd, while onlookers fed the colorful dragons dollar bills for good luck. After the dragon dance, people were ushered inside where we were able to get to the best part of Mai’s... the food. The place was packed and everyone had great things to say about the taste and service (when they could hear each other over the drummers and dragons making their way around the restaurant!) One of our fears with the upgraded restaurant was that prices would be higher and dress attire would be more formal. Thankfully, while Mai’s is nicer and upgraded from the original version, it is still the same Mai’s. In other words, when it’s 3 a.m. and you need to surrender to your Vietnamese cravings after a night out, Mai’s will be open and ready for you. For more information about the restaurant, visit http://maishouston.com/. Also, feel free to check out a quick video we took of the dragon dance on our new YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJbklMmCLnU.

Don’t forget to check out Midtown on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube.

5th Annual Midtown Art in the Park

he reviews are in, artists and lovers of art, thoroughly enjoyed a Midtown day filled with perfect weather, music, libations and of course fine art April 9, 2011 at Elizabeth Baldwin Park. The goal of presenting Midtown Art in the Park 2011, a boutique style annual art festival is to showcase in a community based setting true fine artists of all mediums. Underwritten and coordinated by the Marketing Committee of the Midtown Management District the committee has worked for the past five years to consistently improve the quality, quantity and content of the festival participants. Over 1,500 guests viewed the works of 75 fine artists represented at this year’s event. The festival kicked off with a live painting demonstration on stage to salsa music by nationally recognized artist Nubia Seibert. The sweet sounds of vocalist Sara Van Buskirk filled the Midtown air. By midmorning The Ensemble Theatre performed their rousing Tribute to Michael Jackson that had everyone shaking their booty. Midday brought out Houston Indie-folk favorite Clory Martin. A beer and a taco later and you

By Cynthia Alvarado, Managing Director

would have enjoyed the charging style of rockers Days Drive, lead by singing Midtowner Brian Warwick. The end of the day featured the rock styling of The Selfless Season. Three sessions with Happy Hour Studios Painting Party, sponsored by Central Bank, were a big hit especially among the artistic crowd. We gratefully acknowledge our fabulous food vendors — Cebo’s BBQ food truck;Vivian's Kitchen; No Gotta Team Kookers; Michael’s Cookie Jar and the new Phamily Bites food truck. And our amazing consultants who helped us wrap it all up! CoLab, MaxGray Productions, Way Better Sound and the office of Harris County Precinct 7 Constable May Walker. This one of a kind, true fine art festival brings artists who work in a wide range of mediums from photography, painting and pottery to sculpture, jewelry and hand-blown glass. Admission is always FREE! Bike racks are available so guests can ride up to the fun. If you are interested in participating in any Midtown event contact: Cynthia Alvarado at 713-526-7577 ext 106, cynthiaa@houstonmidtown.com. Join us in 2012 for our 6th Annual Midtown Art in the Park at Elizabeth Baldwin Park, 1702 Elgin at Chenevert, Saturday, April 14, 2012.

Midtown Management District

credits

MIDTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

410 Pierce Street, Ste. 355

Send Information to:

Chairman of the Board

Houston, TX 77002

Design & Production: Quantum/SUR 12818 Willow Centre Drive, Suite B Houston, Texas 77066 281-955-2449 • www.quantumsur.com Editor Mary Chavoustie, mary@quantumsur.com

Todd Triggs

Matt Thibodeaux

Executive Director for Midtown Management District & Midtown Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ #2) mattt@houstonmidtown.com

Cynthia Alvarado

Managing Director cynthiaa@houstonmidtown.com

Publisher/Art Director Leonel E. Mejía, leo@quantumsur.com

Katherine Mestousis

Contributing Writers Cynthia Alvarado Elizabeth C. Searcy Sara C. Strong Brian Warwick

MIDTOWN redevelopment authority and tax increment reinvestment zone #2 ( TIRZ #2)

Accounting Manager Marta M. Mejía, marta@quantumsur.com The Midtown Management District (MMD) and Quantum/Sur do not knowingly accept false or misleading information or editorial, nor do they assume responsibility should such material appear in the paper. Views expressed in the midtown paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor, publisher, or the MMD. Every effort has been made to ensure accurate information at the time of publication, however, this cannot be guaranteed. Publishing of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of any product or service offered. All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher or the MMD for loss or damage.

District Assistant kmestousis@houstonmidtown.com

Robert Sellingsloh Chairman of the Board

Kandi Schramm

Administrative Manager kandis@houstonmidtown.com

Marlon T. Marshall