The 05-04-24 Edition of The Heights Leader

By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com

As Amy’s Ice Creams in the Heights marks its first year of scooping joy, the Austin-based brand is thrilled to announce the launch of its “Random Acts of Ice Cream” initiative to celebrate the milestone. Since its debut, this shop has become more than just a spot for exceptional ice cream—it’s been

cream and gift certificates. Whether you’re strolling down 19th Street, enjoying a picnic at Donovan

Park, or exploring local boutiques, you might just be the next lucky recipient! But why “Random Acts of Ice Cream”? Amy’s Ice Creams isn’t just about inventive flavors and quality ingredients; it’s about giving back, spreading sweetness one scoop at a time.

By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com

Stepping into Chris Daigle’s Oak Forest apartment is like stepping 70 years back in time. It’s a scene from a picture book, really – a stage set somewhere between 1956 and 1966, with all the gadgets, toys, decorations, knickknacks, tools, magazines, appliances, and furniture of the time. Only it’s not a stage at all. This is where Chris Daigle lives.

There’s a rotary phone in the corner. A set of vintage Barbie dolls in a case on the bedroom shelf. A 1956 Magnavox record player that still cranks out a scratchy tune. There’s a curio cabinet filled with photography equipment from the time period, and the dining room table is set with the dishes and cutlery Daigle used as a kid during long-ago Thanksgiving feasts at Grandma’s house. A 1966 event poster of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo is framed in the hallway, complete with a handful of original unused tickets. Next to it hangs an vintage souvenir T-shirt promoting the Houston Astrodome. An ancient brick

of a Sears catalog graces a side table.

Wherever you look in Daigle’s home, the past catches up. The place looks like a museum of mid-century life. And that’s exactly how Daigle wants it. Yet all these vintage items like lamps, appliances, furniture, dishes and more, are used on the daily.

By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com

Brian Scheel, a 31-year-old Heights resident, West Point graduate, prior combat arms military officer with a passion for helping others, recently shared his journey of resilience, service, and teamwork through the pages of his debut children’s book, Tanker Tots

After spending his childhood in the Heights, Brian’s path led him from serving as a tank commander in the U.S. Army to pursuing a Ph.D. in clinical psychology

Daigle’s residence, affectionately named Collector’s Cavern, is the culmination of years of collecting items that reflect a rich family heritage, offering visitors a window into the vibrant era spanning from 1956 to 1966—a

with a neuroscience focus at Texas A&M University before adding the title of “author” to his list of accomplishments. In his book, Tanker Tots, Brian weaves a tale of teamwork, respect, and bravery, drawing inspiration from his experiences in the military. Through colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, Brian introduces young readers to the importance of valuing diversity, admitting vulnerability, and embracing the power of teamwork.

By RUBENA GRACIA The Leader News Contributor

Cinco de Mayo is a popular holiday in Texas and is widely recognized throughout Houston. A much-loved, local shop in the Heights – Casa Ramirez Folkart Gallery – takes pride in hosting events for the holiday.

Chrissie Dickerson Ramirez owns Casa Ramirez and recently spoke to the Leader. She said, “We’ve always celebrated Cinco de Mayo as a time to recognize the culture and beauty of Mexico and the Mexican people.” The website offers this description of the shop: “Casa Ramirez stands as a cultural pillar in the community offering a selection of folk art, Mexican dresses, works by local artists, books on culture and cooking and bilingual books for children, greeting cards, and decorations.”

The shop’s classroom has offered a variety of events, such as poetry, storytelling, Dia de los Muertos traditions, learning Spanish, and classes on painting gourds and mosaic tiles taught by artists. There is also a YouTube Channel with recordings of bilingual children’s book readings, which stress the importance of reading. In addition, the shop hosts annual events for the Houston Rodeo, religious holidays, and historical dates.

Macario Ramirez first opened Casa Ramirez in 1985 as part of the new El Mercado del Sol, which was Houston’s first large, Hispanic-themed shopping center, located at the intersection of Navigation Boulevard and Jensen Drive in the near East Side. Macario’s grandparents were

Photo by Stefanie Thomas

Photo

Photo by Stefanie

Chamber, businesses support graduating seniors with scholarships, sponsorships

The Greater Heights Chamber of Commerce Community Fund

The fund sponsored 10 students this year:

•Houston Christian: Elizabeth Longwell

Northside High School: Luis Aviles, Angela Sibrian and Lindsey Gonzalez

scholarship recipients were recognized and a student entering the military upon graduation was honored.

Adams Insurance Services Scholarships

• Houston Christian High School: Emily Cezeaux, Luke Pidgeon

• Lutheran North Academy: Naomi Waiser, Mitchell Stephens

• Waltrip High School: Daida Garcia, Tobias Eagan

Dr. Ann Vermillion Memorial Scholarship

This year's Dr. Ann Vermillion Memorial Scholarship was sponsored by Dr. April Petronella, and was awarded to Alexander Velasquez from St. Pius X High School.

•St. Pius X High School: Hannah Pampell

Waltrip High School: Cristina Rios, Greta Siegel, Hector Lima

•Heights High School: Karissa Young, Cecilia Santiago

Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital

Sponsorships

• St. Pius X High School: Sinclair Tomczeszyn

• Waltrip High School: Kennedy Doakes

• Heights High School: John Vasquez

Movement Mortgage Sponsorship

St. Pius X High School: Kiersten Riggs

Surveillance photos released of suspects wanted in March Summer Street murder

COMMUNITY REPORTS

Houston police have released surveillance photos of two suspects sought in the fatal shooting of a man at 3275 Summer Street about 11 p.m. on March 31.

The suspects are described only as two unknown males dressed in all black clothing.

One suspect was wearing orange-colored undergarments and the other was wearing pants with white stripes.

The victim is identified as

Christensen Hill, 23. HPD Homicide Division officials said officers were dispatched to a shooting call at the apartment complex at the above address and observed a male, later identified as Mr. Hill, unresponsive in the parking lot. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced deceased by paramedics.

Witnesses stated Hill was with his dog near a vehicle and was approached by two unknown males. Gunshots were heard a short time later. The

suspects then stole a dark gray, four-door Cadillac Hill was known to drive. The vehicle has since been recovered.

Further investigation and evidence from the scene developed suspect descriptions and both men are currently being sought.

Anyone with information on the identities of the wanted suspects in the surveillance photos or in this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or speak anonymously with Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

Primeway Federal Credit Union Sponsorships

Heights High School: Kate Wabnitz

Houston Christian High School: Josua Tilotta

Waltrip High School: Gael Serna

Reynolds and Associates Sponsorship

Waltrip High School: Meredith Moreland

Stellar Bank-Heights Sponsorship

St. Pius X High School: Brian Ortiz

Tony’s Mexican Restaurant Sponsorship

Waltrip High School: Wesley Hudgins

Military Student Honoree

This year's student entering the military upon graduation is from Lutheran North Academy. Isaiah Bohot has decided to enter the Air Force.

COMMUNITY REPORTS

If you are interested in growing antique and old garden roses, the Houston Rose Society's program on May 9 is not one that you will want to miss. Elisabeth Castro is an old garden rose devotee, ARS Consulting Rosarian, and serves on the HRS Board as Secretary. She will provide an overview of the history of the Texas Rose Rustlers and share the best old garden roses to grow in Houston. Elisabeth serves as the 2024 President of The Texas Master Gardener Association and has volunteered on their executive committee in various positions over the past seven years. Elisabeth is also the current Chairman for the Texas Rose Rustlers organization and has been an active member for the past 10 years. She inherited her passion for plants from her mother. But it wasn’t until she moved to Dallas, TX that

she fell in love with a packaged rose bush from a grocery store. From then she was hooked. She loves roses and began her rose journey by growing mainly old garden roses. She currently has over 100 rose bushes. Her passion for plants did not stop there. Her second love is bulbs. Over the years she has planted hundreds of bulbs and although Texas weather does not always comply with having all her schoolhouse and red and yellow spider lilies bloom, she is happy when a clump decides to shoot up a few naked flowerscapes. She is hoping her clump of Hardy Amaryllis (Hippeastrum x Johnsonii) will soon be large enough to share with others. Then, there is that obsession with succulents. Her collection is growing to the point where there is no more room in her greenhouse. If you ask her, there isn’t a plant she does not like, except those pesky weeds that seem to love her garden. Consulting Rosarians who attend this meeting will receive one hour of continuing education credit. CRs will be required to email president@ houstonrose.org prior to the meeting with their name, email address, and name of your rose society if outside HRS in order to receive credit. Join virtually on Thursday, May 9, at 7 p.m., from the comfort of your home or office using Zoom by clicking on the web link below on your computer, tablet or smartphone: https://us06web.zoom. us/j/84372499703?pwd=ab

WANTED: Suspect 1

WANTED: Suspect 2

period Daigle believes deserves to be remembered.

“The ‘50s and ‘60s were a time of societal progress, of optimism, of reaching toward a better future post-World War II,” Daigle reflects. “It was the dawn of the space age—a breath of fresh air that shaped my childhood and inspired me to showcase its impact for others to see.”

Collector’s Cavern isn’t merely a display of nostalgic memorabilia; it’s a living, breathing homage to days gone by. Daigle has meticulously curated artifacts rescued from five different homes across Fort Worth, Louisiana, Houston, and Galveston, transforming his 1970 condominium into a time tunnel of style and color from yesteryears. From furniture to lamps, televisions to an impressive

vault of photo albums and historical records, every item serves as a portal back in time.

“This isn’t about Elvis posters and checkered floors; this is the heartbeat of a family legacy that resonates with people young and old,” Daigle said.

Despite facing adversity, including a stroke in 2018 that left him partially disabled, Daigle remains undeterred in his mission to preserve and share his family’s remarkable history.

“All the more reason to rise up and keep going,” he said. “I want to convey the same appreciation for life and family that I experienced growing up.”

With the help of good friend Patty Blackwell, who contributed her own family’s treasures to Collector’s Cavern, Daigle plans on taking his project to the next level by sharing it with the public. Phase 2 of Collector’s

Cavern aims to expand its reach as an archive of Houston history—a valuable resource for students, history buffs, authors, and filmmakers alike. Already, Daigle said, film producers have used his home as a movie set, school children have toured the apartment and seen a rotary phone for the first time, and the Houston Grand Opera has several items on loan as props.

“History cannot remain static; it must be shared and appreciated,” he said. “We are here to leave a trail—a legacy that inspires future generations.”

For those who lived through the 1950s and 1960s, Collector’s Cavern is a trip down memory lane, Daigle said. For those who didn’t, it’s a learning experience.

Anyone interested in touring Collector’s Cavern is asked to email Daigle at chrisdaigle61@gmail.com.

to the Astrodome and Astroworld.

Collector’s Cavern: The story of the orange clock

By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com

On a living room side table at Collector’s Cavern, Chris Daigle’s personal mid-century museum in Oak Forest, sits an orange clock that holds a tale of unexpected discovery, the story of its remarkable journey and how it ended up in Chris Daigle’s personal museum.

The unassuming orange desk clock, long sought after by Daigle as a nostalgic link to his grandmother’s home, held more than just sentimental value—it was a tangible connection to cherished memories of days gone by.

“I wanted to find a clock like the one I remembered from my grandmother’s house,” Daigle said. “I eventually stumbled on a similar clock at an auction in North Carolina. I thought it would go for hundreds, but it was only $30.”

When the clock finally arrived in Houston, something incredible happened. Peeling off some price stickers from the

bottom of the clock, Daigle made a stunning discovery.

“The clock bore an engraving: Jetty 7810,” Daigle said, still in disbelief. “It was my grandmother’s clock, lost for over 40 years, now returned to me.”

Daigle explained that Jetty was his grandmother’s last name. And 7810 were the numbers of the address where she lived. Back then, he said, people were encouraged to engrave identifiers onto their valuables, to help with recovery in the event they get stolen, so that’s why the name and numbers were scratched into the clock.

For Daigle’s friend Patty Blackwell, finding the clock was nothing short of a miracle.

“I call those moments ‘God winks’,” she said. “It’s when the universe aligns to remind us of the beauty and wonder in everyday life.”

Daigle agrees: “To think that after all these years, my grandmother’s clock found its way back to me—it’s nothing short of miraculous.”

Houston Symphony presents Harry Potter, The Music of Star Wars in May

COMMUNITY REPORTS

The Harry Potter Film Concert Series returns to Jones Hall with Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert, the second film in the Harry Potter series. On May 10 and 11, Keitaro Harada will conduct the Houston Symphony orchestra in performing John Williams’ unforgettable score live from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets while the entire film plays in high-definition on a 40-foot screen. In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, cars fly, trees fight back and a mysterious house-elf comes to warn Harry Potter at the start of his second year at Hogwarts. Adventure and danger await when bloody writing on a wall announces: The Chamber of Secrets has been opened To save Hogwarts will re-

quire all of Harry, Ron and Hermione’s magical abilities and courage. Earning a Grammy nomination for the score, the incredible music composed by John Williams became an instant classic, conjuring beautiful and soaring motifs continuing the adventures of Harry Potter on his magical journey.

Tickets are available online via houstonsymphony.org or by phone at 713.224.7575 for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert. For more information on the Harry Potter Film Concert Series, please visit www.harrypotterinconcert. com.

And later in May: Star Wars For all the Star Wars fans, this is for you! From May 17-19, The Houston Symphony embarks

on a journey through distant galaxies with the iconic score from George Lucas’s legendary space saga, Star Wars Led by Principal POPS

Conductor Steven Reineke, the orchestra will celebrate composer John Williams’s timeless soundtrack live at Jones Hall. The performance will feature music from all nine films of the Skywalker saga, including beloved themes like “Rey’s Theme” and “Yoda’s Theme,” as well as selections from Rogue One and Solo Guests can anticipate a livestream performance on Saturday, May 18. Kids ages 6-12 save 25$ on tickets in price levels 3 and 4 with the purchase of at least one adult ticket. Find more information on the Houston Symphony website at houstonsymphony. org/tickets/concerts/themusic-of-star-wars.

If not for the engraving at the bottom of the orange clock, Chris Daigle never would have known it was his grandmother’s clock that had returned to the family.

The miraculous return of Chris Daigle’s grandmother’s orange clock, Patty Blackwell believes, was one of “God’s winks.”

Photos by Stefanie Thomas

Chris Daigle points out a souvenir t-shirt from the opening day of the Houston Astrodome to friend Patty Blackwell.

Chris Daigle devoted a wall in his office to vintage automotive ads, photos, and posters.

Beauty products from the 1950s and 1960s

Chris Daigle maintains an “engine room” of historic documents, filing away the tiniest scraps of paper in an effort to preserve history. One entire shelf of binders is dedicated

THE PHONE – “Hi, Grand Pa,” says a voice. “This is your grandson.” I ask, “Which one?” He replies, “Your old est.” I ask, “What’s your name?” Click. My first clue that the call was not from a grandson was him calling me “Grand Pa.” I am called by various names by my grand children including “Hey, you,” “Codger” and “How are you feeling?” (This not a rhetori cal question.) No one calls me “Grand Pa.” If you will re call, last summer I received a call from “Michael Ashby,” a nephew who was in trouble and was too ashamed to call his parents, but needed money to get home. I noted that in my rather checkered family tree – some branches suitable for a hangman’s rope – we have had an Americus, Milroy and Nimrod. I said, “The last Michael Ashby died in 1787.” Silence, then “(Blank) YOU!” Click. I wondered how he got my name and phone number. Yesterday I got this email: “Dear Lynn, I hope this message reaches you in good health. Unfortunately, I have distressing news to share. Karl Ashby and his entire family were involved in a tragic car accident in Switzerland on

Lynn Ashby Columnist

THE TOPICS.

Gullible’s Travels

dollars that might be designated for you.”

The message goes on to say that I should contact the attorney to make sure I am “fully informed about your entitlements.” It is signed: “Rory Unsworth.” So now it’s “Karl.” I checked my family names (listed under a rap sheet) and could not find a Karl, so I googled and found three with that name, all middle-aged and one is Black. None listed me as their grandfather. Also, something went tilt when I read “eighteen million US dollars.” No American, not even an attorney, would write that. It would read: “$18 million.”

Welcome to the wonderful world of Scamalot. There have always been charlatans, phonies and frauds – just look at who we elect – but scamming has become a cottage industry. Beside the phone calls and even letters, thanks to email, text and the general internet we are awash with these con artists. Almost daily I receive, and I’ll bet you do, too, email scams. One constant is a notice from my carrier, Disable Cable. It seems there has been a security breach and, as my privacy is their Number 1 priority, they need for me to reply to their inquiry. If I don’t, they will disconnect my cable TV, telephone, computer, electricity and water. All I have to do is give them the password to my account. It’s for my own safety.

My email is ripe with such come-ons to the point I have to clear them out each day before I can get to work trying to call my grandfather. Do you get recorded phone calls from the Texas Police Association or State Troopers Society? Whoever they are, they are asking for money.

A hot scam these days

is spoofing. That is when someone disguises himself or herself as a person you know and trust. It can apply to emails, phone calls, and websites. You get a phone call and your caller ID shows the caller is from your neighbor, bank or bail bondsman.

“Hi, this is Jerry at your local H-E-B, and your last payment on your VISA card didn’t go through. Just to make sure we have the correct number, give it to me again.” Or maybe you get a call from the USPS. “The postal service tried to deliver your package but you weren’t there and it has to be signed. We’ll try again. When will you be home?”

I warn you of these ploys after reading an article in The New York Times that told me there are political donation scams, when someone masquerading as a campaign worker wants a contribution. There are sextortion scams in which a person posing as a hacker claims to have recorded you watching porn through your laptop camera. Aha! You know you only watch porn on your PC. The article reports text scams tricked Americans out of $300 million (not three

THE WEEKEND. Thrills around

Where: 626 E. 9th

What: Learn the process of roasting coffee from start to finish Cost: $50-$95 Info: eventbrite.com

WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR AT CENTRAL CITY CO-OP

Who: Adults When: Saturday, May 4, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Where: 2515 Harvard St What: Community Brunch and Gastrochurch Cost: $35 Info: eventbrite.com

hundred million dollars) in 2022, the Federal Trade Commission reported. That same year, Americans received 225 billion spam texts, a 157 percent increase from the previous year. More than 600,000 cases involving impostor scams were reported in the United States last year, costing Americans more than $2 billion. Going one step further into slick scams there is the video call. In February, a finance worker in Hong Kong was tricked into transferring $26 million of his company’s money to fraudsters who impersonated his colleagues on a video call. The scam made him believe he was speaking with his boss and other staff members. These fakers like to pick on the elderly. How do they know you’re old? Maybe they hack into AARP’s membership, but in 2023, for the first time, 18- to 24-year-olds lost more money to scams than any other age group. And the young, too, can steal. A 21-year-old former UT student allegedly hacked into the university’s computer system to steal Social Security numbers and other personal information from

37,000 fellow Longhorns, faculty and staff. Why do these fakers keep trying to steal our stuff when we know better than to fall for their transparent scams? Because, as we can see, it works. Scammers can send out millions of phishing texts and emails at no cost, and if just 1 percent falls victim, that’s a good day. Also, many of these schemes work on our own greed. “This operation gets us around the IRS and no one else knows about it.” Now I’ve got to go. A Nigerian prince has $16 million frozen in a London bank, and if I help him secretly withdraw it, I get 10 percent. But first, to show my interest, I need to send him the password to my IRA. Ashby is suspicious at ashby2@comcast.net

Editor’s note: This column and its contents do not necessarily reflect the views of The Leader News, its staff, or its publisher. The Leader News welcomes opinion articles on matters of interest to Greater Heights residents at editor@ theleadernews.com.

MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU COOKIE DECORATING CLASS AT ACTIVE PASSION COFFEE SHOP

Who: Adults and kids 8+

When: Saturday, May 4, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

Where: 803 Usener

What: Cookie decorating with royal icing – all supplies included Cost: $65 Info: eventbrite.com

Trail Mix at M-K-T Market

Who: Families

When: Saturday, May 4, 1011 a.m.

Where: 600 N. Shepherd

What: Outdoor music and variety show for kids

Cost: Free Info: themkt.com

CINCO SALSA SATURDAY AT LITTLE WOODROW’S

Who: Adults

When: Saturday, May 4, 2 p.m. – Judging at 6 p.m.

Where: 2631 White Oak Dr.

What: Salsa competition Cost: Free Info: facebook.com

STEVE & DONNA BING WITH TIM SCHAEFER AT EQ HEIGHTS

Who: Adults and families

When: Saturday, May 4, 6:308:30 p.m. Where: 1030 Heights Blvd. What: Live music & dancing Cost: Free Info: facebook.com

TACO EATING CONTEST AT THE CANARY Who: Adults When: Sunday, May 5, 5-5:30 p.m. Where: 963 Judiway St. What: Who can eat the most tacos in five minutes - $500

Photo by Emily Vitek

8th Annual Kentucky Derby - Race for the Roses at Heights Bier Garten

“Amy’s Ice Creams prides itself on its inventive flavors and quality ingredients, but it’s our commitment to community that truly defines us,” a company representative said in a statement.

“Since opening our doors in The Heights, we’ve been honored by the warm welcome. Now, we want to give back in the sweetest way we know how.” To celebrate this milestone and enjoy some delicious treats, ice cream enthusiasts are invited to join the festivities at the store located at 1901 N Shepherd Dr #3, Houston, TX 77008. From monthly flavors to daily specials, there’s something for everyone. For real-time updates on where the ice cream van will pop up next, follow Amy’s Ice Creams on Instagram @ AmysIceCreams and like them on Facebook. You never know where they’ll be, but you can count on them to add a little extra sweetness to your day.

from Mexico. He was raised in San Antonio and visited the city’s Mercado with his parents. He wanted to replicate this type of market in Houston. In the early 1990s, Macario moved the shop to 19th Street in the Heights, first in a smaller space, moving in 2004 to its current location, which had more space and could accommodate the classroom. Classes and events held for Dia de los Muertos, observed in late October and early November to celebrate a family’s ancestors, mark the most important time of year. When classes are not being held, the space functions as a workshop. Macario passed away in 2020, but Chrissie has continued running the business to honor her late husband as part of his legacy.

“It is rewarding for me to do this,” she said, adding, “He was well known in the community for his dedication to the culture and traditions of Mexico, Texas and the Southwest, especially Dia de los Muertos.”. The couple moved to The Heights in the early 1990s, and Chrissie still lives in the same home.

Cinco de Mayo, or 5th of May, celebrates Mexico’s 1862 Battle of Puebla, which was

“I wanted to create a platform to reach kids in communities, to help them build resilience and character from a young age,” Scheel explained, adding the book supports mental health in kids. “Children’s brains are incredibly malleable, and if we can instill positive values and resilience early on, they’ll have a better chance of overcoming challenges later in life.”

The idea for Tanker Tots, he said, stemmed from a long list of lessons learned during his time as an M1A2 Abrams tank platoon leader.

“While I was in the military I would write down lessons I was learning. In the end I had a list of about 300 things,” he said. “There was a particular lesson that I was learning about teamwork and recognizing the diversity of people’s values on the team. I understood that not everyone offers the same type of value, the same skills, but they’re all needed. I wanted to write about it to honor the people who helped me learn this very important lesson.”

The story follows the adventures of the Tanker Tots, a trio of young tanks who learn valuable lessons about respect and unity when faced with a mission that requires the help of their mechanic counterparts. Through courage, cooperation, and mutual respect, the Tanker Tots and mechanics demonstrate that every member of the team plays a vital role in achieving success.

Scheel’s dedication to empowering young minds extends beyond the pages of his

book. Through book readings and presentations at local schools and venues like Barnes & Noble, he shares valuable insights on mental health development, leadership, and character building with children and parents alike.

“I want to create an emotionally safe space for families to talk about their experiences and challenges, especially first responder families where communication is often lacking or uncomfortable due to the nature of the job,” Brian said. “By opening up conversations about mental health and resilience as it relates to their roles, we can strengthen family bonds. Tanker Tots is designed to be an opener for some of those conversations.”

Tanker Tots was published by Mascot Books and has already received praise from child psychologist Dr. Robert Heffer, a clinical professor at Texas A&M University, who endorsed the book for its positive messages and engaging storytelling.

“Parents will appreciate

how Tanker Tots teaches the values of hard work, selfless service, loyalty, leadership, teamwork, and openness to others,” Heffer wrote. “I encourage parents to partner with the Tanker Tots unit in this book to develop character in their children.”

As Scheel completes his Ph.D. studies with the goal of ultimately supporting veterans facing PTSD and addiction, he continues to inspire young readers with his uplifting tale. With Tanker Tots he hopes to spark conversations, build connections, and foster a community of support and understanding for generations to come. Keep an eye out for future adventures of the Tanker Tots ! Tanker Tots is available through outlets like Barnes & Noble, Target, Amazon, and the publisher directly, Mascot Books. Contact Scheel via email at tankertotsseries@ gmail.com or follow him on Instagram (@tankertotsseries) and Facebook (@tankertots).

AMY’S, from P. 1

TANKER TOTS, from P. 1

Photo courtesy of Amy’s Ice Creams

Be on the lookout for Amy’s Ice Creams’ van cruising around town to score free goodies in the coming weeks.

CINCO DE MAYO, from P. 1

Photo Agapito Sanchez

2013 photo of (l to r) Chrissie Dickerson Ramirez and Macario Ramirez, founders of Casa Ramirez in the Heights, with Macario’s sister, Anita Ramirez.

Photo courtesy of Brian Scheel

Brian Scheel at a recent book reading of Tanker Tots at Barnes & Noble.

Houston's Art Bike Parade and Festival returns for its third year May 11

Houston Parks Board (HPB) and the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art (OSCVA) join forces again to present the third annual Houston Art Bike Parade and Festival on May 11 during Mother’s Day weekend. This free, family-friendly event is open to all with a range of activities at the culturally historic MacGregor Park, which has served as a significant gathering and recreational space for Houstonians for nearly a century. This event is a celebration of the artist in everyone, along with Houston’s great parks and trails.

The city-wide festival will kick off with the Art Bike Parade from 10 am. The parade is open to all Houstonians, and registration is free. At the event, attendees can expect special activations to celebrate Mother’s Day, such as a photobooth, cardmaking, and alcohol-free “momosas” sponsored by Tampico and much more. Attendees will also have the opportunity to decorate bikes and safety vests, enjoy art stations, and learn more about summer programming and offerings from local community organizations, offering various creative and engaging activities for families. The festival also includes free food, but attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and water to complement their festival experience.

“We believe that greenspaces like MacGregor Park are not just destinations for recreation but also hubs that ignite inspiration and imagination,” said Beth White, President and CEO, HPB. “MacGregor Park is the idyllic backdrop for this event because of its rich history and active community. It’s a place that has continuously inspired this community – from artists, visitors, and trail users from across our city.”

Over 200 student-led art bike projects of all shapes and sizes — created by students across local schools, such as

Smith Elementary School and Blackshear Elementary School — will ride in the parade as HPB and the Orange Show continue their partnership with Houston Independent School District (HISD). The parade will conclude with an award ceremony recognizing exemplary creations from HISD classrooms and community participants.

“The Art Bike Festival is a celebration of our city’s diverse artistic expressions,” said Lafayette Herring, Board President, OSCVA. “It’s also an opportunity for people to experience art in a fun and interactive way at MacGregor Park, a place where natural beauty and historical legacy come together.”

As MacGregor Park prepares to undergo long-planned renovations slated to begin next year, the festivities will infuse opportunities for attendees to

learn about the plans, give additional input, and meet the design team. The park's transformational enhancements — following over 1,200 enthusiastic community interactions through an extensive engagement process — are a testament

Watch out for kids on bicycles on Bike to School Day May 8

Teacher Emily Gregor, aka Coach G., wants to give members of the community a heads up: May 8 is Bike to School Day, and the students at Sinclair Elementary will once again ride their bicycles to school that day along a pre-set route.

"The safety of my students is my priority," Gregor said, adding she wants to share the

to Houston's commitment to investing in parks and greenspaces. The recent approval by Houston City Council for visionary improvements, propelled by a generous $27 million catalyst gift from the Kinder Foundation, marks a significant

step in the project. Additional funds are being raised to complete the full project to ensure that MacGregor Park continues to flourish as a vibrant hub of creativity and recreation for all.

“I am thrilled to see the Art Bike Festival returning to

MacGregor Park,” said Kenneth Allen, Director, Houston Parks and Recreation Department. “This event not only celebrates creativity and community but also underscores the importance of our parks as vibrant spaces for cultural expression and recreational activities. MacGregor Park's upcoming renovations will further enhance this iconic greenspace and ensure that it remains a cherished hub of artistic expression and recreation.”

The Third Annual Houston Art Bike Parade & Festival is presented by the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art and the Houston Parks Board, in partnership with the Mayor's Office of Special Events and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, and with support from The Brown Foundation and Houston Independent School District. More information on the Art Bike Festival can be found at www.houstonartbike.com. Houstonians who are interested in participating in the parade portion of the event are encouraged to register online.

Photos by Anthony Rathbun

Photos from the 2023 Art Bike Parade

Submitted photo

Emily Gregor is a PE teacher at Sinclair Elementary School and organizer of Back to School Day.

“What makes my art unique, is me”– Diana Bourdier

Saturday is the last presummer market before First Saturday Arts Market takes its annual summer break. A good time to introduce you to artist Diana Bourdier. When Bourdier joined the market many years ago she was a photographer. She took a break and returned a couple of years ago as a painter. Her figures are absolutely fascinating to me.

Art Valet: How would you describe your art?

“The cheesy, simple answer to what makes my art unique, is me,” Bourdier said. “My art is my own response to questions, experiences, emotions, and places. My art is me solving problems. Those problems might be technical, like how do I get this window to glow. They might be personal, like how do I process my mother’s death.

“Elements often found in my art include lines, loose and messy ones and tight and patterned ones, pattern, and dots.

I use acrylic paint and watercolor, charcoal, chalk, but mostly pens of many sorts.

I’m a sucker for paper. I like my photography printed on cotton rag, and I enjoy working on paper, though I do also use board. Many people comment on how varied my art is.

I thought of this as a weakness in my art, like I couldn’t focus, but in December’s First Saturday Arts Market a woman

Empty

who visited my tent said, ‘It means you are curious.’ I like that. I do feel curious in my art.”

AV: Tell us about yourself outside of the art world.

“I was born and raised in Lafayette, Louisiana, and continue to feel a strong connection to my hometown, but I have now lived longer in Texas than in Louisiana,” Bourdier said. “I have two grown kids, a grown husband (that’s a tiny joke), a senior dog, and a tom cat who recently adopted us. I live in a historical home in Galveston, which crosses two items off my bucket list: live in a historical home, live walking distance from the Gulf of Mexico.

“In addition to art I spend time beachcombing, reading, quilting, baking, and-I can’t really call it gardening because I don’t know what I’m doing, gardening,” Bourdier said. “I have a YouTube that focuses on food in literature, ‘Hi, It’s Diana.’”

AV: How did your art journey begin?

“My father was an artist, so

I grew up with art in the house, being creative, going to shows, hanging out with other artists. We were encouraged to be individual and be messy and create. I started with baking (still love it),” Bourdier said.

“My adult version of an art journey began with making quilts -- I taught myself in college -- and with photography, I carried a camera around with me when my kids were young. From quilting I learned so much about color and pattern. From photography I learned awareness, framing, and subject matter. I am still on my art journey, and it’s a journey of discovery.”

AV: Any big art plans?

“Big goal number one is to move my studio into the downstairs space at my house,” Bourdier said. “Currently, I work in the second bedroom in our home. The downstairs apartment is occupied by a renter, so I need to make enough to take over the rent when she moves out. (Fingers crossed).

“My second big goal is to learn to design repeat patterns and print my own fabric to use in quilts and bring those quilts to market to make my booth even more diverse.”

AV: Any wild tales orexperiences that might surprise even friends and

the Shelters: BARC to reduce

family?

“My family knows about these two things, but they are the most different things, I think, about me,” Bourdier said. “I had two home births with the aid of a midwife. And I competed in one, and only one, body building competition. The weights and workouts were the easy part. The diet was killer.”

Follow Diana Bourdier on Instagram https://www. instagram.com/lifebeneaththepines and her website https://www.lifebeneaththepines.com She uses Life Beneath the Pines as her business name.

Bourdier will join over forty artist at First Saturday Arts Market on Saturday, May 4, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. at

adoption

fees, extend shelter hours through May 15

COMMUNITY REPORTS

BISSELL Pet Foundation, a national animal welfare organization dedicated to ending pet homelessness, is prompting a national call for adoption once again this spring with its “Empty the Shelters” reduced-fee adoption event May 1 – 15. BARC, the City of Houston's Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, will participate along with more than 410 shelters in 43 states. To help deserving shelter pets find loving homes, BISSELL Pet Foundation sponsors reduced adoption fees during each nationwide event.

BARC will participate May 1-15, and waive fees for all adult dogs and cats, as well as puppies and kittens. BARC will also be open for adoptions on Mondays, May 6 and 13, from noon - 5 p.m., when the shelter is tradition-

ally closed. Adoptions are done on a first-come, firstserved basis. Adopters must be over the age of 18 and have a valid ID and proof of address to adopt. Visit www.houstontx.gov/ barc/adopt_a_pet.html for more information on our adoption process. Email our adoptions team at BARCadoptions@houstontx.gov to inquire about a specific pet.

"Our nation’s animal shelters are facing a capacity crisis and need your help now. Adoptions have slowed while a surge in owner surrenders due to families facing economic and housing challenges has left tens of thousands of highly adoptable pets desperate to find homes," said Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. "Our Spring National ‘Empty the Shelters' will support the adoption of thousands of pets across the country, helping shelters in this critical

time. Opening your home to a shelter pet saves a life and creates lifesaving space to help another pet in need."

BARC's adoption center is located at 3300 Carr St. and is open:

• Tuesday and FridaySunday: noon - 5 p.m.

• Wednesday and Thursday: noon - 7 p.m.

• BARC will be open for adoptions at our 3200 Carr St. entrance on Mondays, May 6 and 13, from noon - 5 p.m.

“Thanks to the Empty Shelters Campaign and BISSELL Pet Foundation, thousands of BARC animals have found their forever homes,” said BARC Shelter Director Jarrad Mears. “As intake continues to grow every year, strategic partnerships like these are crucial to ensuring that we find positive

outcomes for our shelter pets.” BISSELL Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” event is the largest funded adoption event in the country. This lifesaving event began in 2016 with a goal of encouraging more families to choose adoption. More than 226, 000 pets have found loving homes since its inception. “Empty the Shelters” is BISSELL Pet Foundation’s largest program, partnering with 742 animal welfare organizations in 49 states and Canada to reduce adoption fees. BISSELL Pet Foundation and BARC Houston urge families to research the pet they are interested in adopting, as well as adoption requirements. For more information on adopting or donating to “Empty the Shelters,” visit www.bissellpetfoundation. org/empty-the-shelters and www.houstonbarc.com.

Submitted photos

Diana Bourdier smiles with her award winning art.

Test piece for using more fabric and collage in my work by Diana Bourdier.

Sketch for piece with windows and funeral flowers by Diana Bourdier