January 26 Section A

Inside Today: Yet another development on North Shepherd • Page 1B

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Saturday, January 26, 2019 • Vol. 64 • No. 4

About Us 3500 East T.C. Jester Blvd Suite A (713) 686-8494

Arrest made in bike-theft investigation

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com

news@theleadernews.com www.theleadernews.com Facebook/THE LEADER.

One man has been arrested in connection with multiple burglaries around local neighborhoods, and authorities say he and another suspect could be involved in additional area incidents.

On Jan. 14, investigators with the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office took Houston Mamon, 50, into custody in connection with two local burglaries. According to a statement

on the constable’s office Facebook page, deputies had been attempting to track Mamon for more than a month.

Mamon has been charged Mamon with two counts of burglary of a habitation in connection with incidents over the past six

weeks. He is suspected to have broken into garages and stolen bicycles in the 200 block of Munford Street and 900 block of East 27th Street.

Cpl. Joseph Bowden with Precinct 1 said he used video evidence from residences to make the arrest. Bowden also said the suspect may not have been operating alone.

“There’s another suspect that I talked to and he gave me a confession, and we’re working on his cases now,” Bowden said.

Tossed Aside

Although Bowden said Mamon was mainly suspected of hitting the Heights, Mamon and the additional suspect – whose name is not being released at this time – could potentially be linked to dozens more bike thefts in the Heights, Woodland Heights, Garden Oaks, Shepherd Park and Candlelight Plaza.

However, a Precinct 1 spokesperson said there is no available video eviSee Theft P. 4A

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Piecing it together. Read about assemblage artist Tara Hughes.

Page 7A

Photo by Adam Zuvanich Oak Forest resident Travis Sales places a bag inside his near-full recycling bin, which has not been emptied in about a month.

Recyclable materials mount as city scraps regular collection

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

Geschlossen. A German tavern in the Heights has closed.

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Wesley Krueger keeps telling city officials that his recycle bin has yet to be emptied, and he keeps getting the same explanations and assurances.

So the 85-year-old Mangum Manor resident has kept the filled green bin on his curb – for days, then weeks, now a month.

He keeps waiting for its contents to be scooped up.

“They’re just not getting picked up. Period,” Krueger said of his recyclables and those of his neighbors. “I don’t care when they put out schedules or when they say they’ll do it. That’s the problem. People are disgusted and rightly so.”

People all over northwest Houston – and beyond – can relate. The city’s Solid Waste Management Department, citing a shortage of skilled workers, a damaged and depleted fleet of trucks and growing volumes of recyclable materials discarded by residents, has struggled to maintain its every-other-week pickup schedule.

So area streets have been littered with filled-to-

Church/Calendar. ............................. 5A Classifieds.............................................. 4B Coupons. ................................................. 6A Food/Drink/Art................................... 7A Obituaries.............................................. 6A Opinion. ................................................... 3A Public Information......................... 2A Puzzles...................................................... 3A

Upcoming dates for recycling pickup, categorized by regular pickup days, according to Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department.

Saturday, Jan. 26 Monday & Tuesday B-week Sunday, Jan. 27 Thursday & Friday B-week Wednesday, Jan. 30 Monday & Tuesday A-week Saturday, Feb. 2 Thursday & Friday A-week

See Recycling P. 4A

Yarn art brightens fence at T.C. Jester Dog Park

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

The INDEX.

Return to recycling

When Melinda Faust and her sister, Melissa, began operating Mels’ Seafood Shack out of a food truck three years ago at 2521 N. Durham Dr., serving up boiled seafood and po-boys was a labor of love.

“I always wanted to try it,” said Melinda Faust, who has had a full-time job in the oil and gas industry for the past 20 years. “But it’s taken more and more of my time and I’m a single mom.”

For those reasons and others, the popular seafood stop has closed. Melissa decided to move back to Louisiana, and Melinda said the restaurant just couldn’t operate out of the truck anymore.

“We outgrew the food truck and the next step was to move into a brick-andmortar building,” Melinda said. “At the present time, we couldn’t take it to the next level. We’d been operating six months out of the year only on weekends. It was time to close.”

While the sisters thought to lease the property for a time, it is now under contract to sell to an undisclosed buyer.

“It was a great business to be in,” Melinda said. “We won The Leader’s Choice for best seafood two years running. People would drive in from Pearland to eat. The phone still rings off the hook. It makes me a little sad.”

But the door is not completely closed for Melinda to re-enter the restaurant business.

“Never say never,” she said.

Above all, she appreciates all who came and enjoyed the food there over the years.

“Thank you to all who supported Mels’,” Melinda said. “You made us a success.”

When Houston realtor and Oak Forest resident Rebecca Chirich hosted her sister, Alexandra Chirich, for a long visit over the holidays, the two women hatched an art project that has brought joy to area residents.

Rebecca Chirich said the yarn art “bomb” on the fence near the T.C. Jester Dog Park in Oak Forest, proclaiming “You Are Enough,” was born from a

desire to share a message that people don’t hear enough. Alexandra had been reading a lot of Dr. Brené Brown’s books, and her message of worthiness and confidence resonated with both sisters.

The Chirich sisters’ artwork resonated with area resident Alexis Trejo, who first saw it a couple weeks ago while it was being constructed.

“I was having a very rough day,” Trejo said. “When I saw this, it made me feel a sense of comfort.”

The Chirich sisters, who are not professional artists and did not seek the approval of the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, also drew inspiration from the “Be Someone” message that greets drivers as they approach downtown on Interstate 45. They wanted to provide an uplifting message that focuses on self-improvement for the holiday season.

Once they decided to do street art, they had to decide See Yarn P. 4A

Photo by Betsy Denson Visitors of T.C. Jester Park admire the yarn art attached to the fence of the dog park. It was done by sisters Alexandra and Rebecca Chirich.

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The public.

The Leader • Saturday, January 26, 2019 • Page 2A

Boy killed in apparent accidental shooting at Oak Forest apartments From Staff Reports A 9-year-old boy was killed on the afternoon of Jan. 16 in what police say appears to have been an accidental shooting in Oak Forest.

According to Lt. Larry Crowson with the Houston Police Department, two 9-yearold cousins were home alone

in the Montabella at Oak Forest Apartments in the 4000 block of W. 34th Street. He said the pair appear to have engaged in a struggle over the gun before it went off, striking one of the cousins.

“There was some kind of interaction where they had the gun. It doesn’t appear that it was intentional,” Crowson

said.

Investigators say the gunshot struck one of the boys in either the arm or chest.

The boy was later transported to a hospital, where police say he was pronounced dead.

Police say that under Texas law, a 9-year-old cannot be charged with a crime; howev-

er, there remains a possibility that the children’s parents or guardians could face charges for leaving the boys home alone.

Any charges levied will depend on the decision of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, according to police.

School: Man exposes himself to student

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

A man exposed himself to a Black Middle School student who was walking to the Oak Forest campus the morning of Jan. 15, according to a letter to parents obtained by The Leader.

The letter, attributed to principal Rhonda Honore and emailed to parents Jan. 16, said the incident occurred near

the corner of East T.C. Jester Boulevard and Judiway Street.

It also said the unknown man who approached the female student is “described as a dark-skinned Hispanic male driving a white pickup truck possibly featuring a ‘4XD’ decal.”

“Thankfully, the student ran away and made it to our campus unharmed,” the letter said.

“Upon her arrival, she immediately notified Black Middle

School administrators.”

Houston ISD said in a statement released Jan. 17 that an investigation is underway and extra HISD police officers had been assigned to patrol the area.

“The safety of our students is our top priority,” HISD said in its statement.

It is unclear if the man suspected of exposing himself has been identified or apprehended by authorities. HISD

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The Leader • Saturday, January 26, 2019 • Page3A

Brown bins and blue trucks are hurricane proof

T

he city of Houston is fast turning me into a conspiracy theorist, and I was always so proud that I kept my head away from aluminum hats.

Besides a quick love affair with Mel Gibson’s “Conspiracy Theory” movie of 1997, with taped eyes and tapioca under seal, I never much cared about Area 51, moon landings or whether reptiles are running the world (based on the D.C. environment, I’m not sure that’s a conspiracy anymore).

The way I look at it, I’m just trying to figure out what I’m going to serve my children for dinner tonight, and I couldn’t care less if Bigfoot ate somebody’s hotdog.

After spending the past couple of weeks hearing from readers and watching our editor try to get information about the city of Houston’s recycling nightmare, I’m starting to believe we may have a budding theory on our hands: This recycling thing is one big hoax, and we’ve been conned into believing we’re saving the planet when we sort the butter beans from the paper plate from the aluminum can.

Of course, a lot of this isn’t really a theory. One of my favorite websites, TreeHugger.com, has an interesting headline on its site: “Recycling is BS Update: Even aluminum recycling is a mess.”

In October, PBS titled a segment: “Why your recyclables may have no place to go.” And last year, the New

Jonathan McElvy Publisher

York Times had an in-depth report from Oregon titled: “Your Recycling Gets Recycled Right? Maybe, or Maybe Not.” As you might surmise, these are not news sources keen on quelling the environmentalist in us all.

Meanwhile, here we sit in our little slice of north and northwest Houston, and our green recycle bins look the same way they did nearly a month ago – properly folded boxes junking our street sides.

Our investigative team here at The Leader (if team includes our editor, Adam Zuvanich, and me) began cramming phone lines and inboxes with questions about recycling, and for the most part, we got the same answers everyone else has received about the state of the city’s recycling program.

First, we’ve heard that our fleet of recycling trucks is aging and, unfortunately, many were damaged during Hurricane Harvey.

Next, we heard Hurricane Harvey washed so many recycle bins down

the bayous that the city is having a hard time replacing them all.

After that, we’re told there’s a labor shortage, and because workers are finding better jobs, we can’t hire drivers to pick up the recyclables.

Then, we’re told that too much of our recycling fleet has mechanical issues, and we need to get those trucks fixed before the schedule can resume as normal.

Oh, and we’ve also been told that this is just a really busy time of the year for recycling, what with all the holiday packaging we dumped in our bins.

You know where I’m going with this, right? Let’s start with the asinine: It’s Hurricane Harvey’s fault. OK. So from the months of October 2017 until December 2018, we didn’t miss a single scheduled recycling pickup. All of a sudden, 14 months later, it’s Harvey’s fault?

Isn’t it fair to ask why our trucks worked for those 14 months and then – boom – they all stopped working in December?

And what about those missing bins? Have you seen a flotilla of recycling bins stuck in bayou walls?

Is there any chance they all drifted to the Gulf and have created a new reef a few miles off the coast of Jamaica Beach? Somebody send a drone – I bet the footage is stunning.

Here’s another question: Why did the hurricane waters only carry off our green recycle bins but not

our brown trash bins? Harvey was a monster, but he wasn’t that smart.

Or was he?

Same for our recycling trucks.

Did Harvey only target the green trucks and leave the blue garbage trucks alone?

Maybe we need to investigate if blue-colored trucks can withstand hurricane waters better than greencolored trucks.

That leads to my next question: If our green fleet has truly been ruined from silt (blue trucks are fine), and our green bins (not brown ones) are floating in international waters, what does it matter? We’ve got a labor shortage anyway, so even if the trucks work and the bins don’t rise, it wouldn’t matter. We still don’t have anybody to pick up our egg cartons.

Throw in the holiday excess excuse, and I’m sorry folks, but we’ve got a conspiracy theory on our hands. Blame the hurricane, blame the good economy, and if all else fails, blame Santa Claus.

Good grief.

As we’ve reported in today’s edition, no one has all the answers. In fact, most of the important parties in picking up our recyclables won’t even return our calls. Maybe they’re all fishing off the Great Green Reef, or maybe they don’t have answers you and I will like.

More questions need to be asked, and we’ll keep chasing answers.

For starters, are we even recy-

Lynn Ashby Columnist

18th Century English nursery rhyme The Wall Street Journal – Stocks dropped sharply on news that Humpty Dumpty could not be put together again. “My portfolio fell more than Humpty,” moaned one hedge fund manager. The SEC is investigating reports that one Wall Street brokerage house, with inside information of the disaster, shorted stocks in horses and men and made a fortune. If found guilty, this firm faces up to $100 million in fines, or, as one economist put it, “A halfhour’s income.”

Variety – Royal men and horses lay an egg! Our sources from across the pond say this act bombed at the box office, sort of “Hamilton” after the duel. H’wood biggies have dropped plans to go on with “Rocky 14 – the Humpty Saga.” The silver-screen men are still moaning over greenlighting Tom Cruise, George Clooney and Burt Reynolds starring in “All the President’s Men.” Focus groups determined no one would believe a presidential conspiracy to obstruct justice, and it was discovered Reynolds was dead.

Fox News – Liberals were emboldened with the horrible and gruesome death of a brave American patriot, Humpty Dumpty. In a typical left-wing sneaky plot, members of the deep state shoved Dumpty off a 200-foot-high wall in an effort to silence someone who could prove there was no collusion between Old MacDonald and Little Jack Horner. “Fox & Friends” will reveal this commie conspiracy in a special broadcast tonight at 8, 9 and 10, then most of next week following “Hillary and Benghazi” – the true story of her brazen attempt to blame the raid on a trio of blind mice.

The New York Times – A person known only as Humpty Dumpty has fallen to his death despite fevered efforts by a small army of horses and men. Reliable sources blamed Brexit. More on Pages 3 through 12, plus a map of the wall, a history of earlier walls and falls, two crossword puzzles featuring words about the incident and biographies of all the King’s men and their horses. Editorial: Do we really need walls?

Nine Op/Ed columns on the danger of a wall on the Rio Grande, why President Trump loves walls and thus should be impeached, and a history of presidential liars and their hair dressers.

Local TV – Breaking News!

This just in: an accident has occurred on the Wall! A man

has fallen off ! We have a reporter on the way to the tragedy and lots of crime scene yellow tape, flashing police car lights and interviews with eye witnesses who heard about it, sobbing relatives and worried looks from our anchors, sadly shaking their heads over the incident. Also a follow-up on our exclusive: Is there a doggy heaven? If there is still time, we have news about the hurricane headed toward Houston and the mayor’s assassination.

White House Press Release – Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders flatly states there was no collusion between King Trump and all his men who have been indicted for not catching Humpty Dumpty in the air.

“That’s old news,” she said.

She also promised that she will get back some day to answer reporters’ questions on Donald Trump’s time in a hot tub with Russian President Vladimir Putin. When asked when Trump will release his federal income tax forms, Sanders replied: “That’s even older news. I’ll get back to you on that. Maybe.” She denied that her nose is growing.

National Enquirer – Martians land in Utah! Earthquakes Caused by Spinach!

Why we appeal to the lowest common denominator who buy our ridiculous stories while checking out at the grocery store. Poll: Is Trump Our Greatest President Ever?

How our publisher flipped on a good friend after killing negative stories about the friend and locking the manuscripts in a vault – along with the authors.

PBS – A seven-part series on nursery rhymes featuring two experts who discuss something about Humpty Dumpty’s demise as a metaphor for the fall of western civilization. Political analysts Shields and Brooks increase viewership by changing their weekly debate to Brooks Shields. Plus long, mindnumbing stories on Peruvian pottery, an afternoon at a Taco Bell and the need for more tote bags. Our nightly begging for donations will take two days off.

The Cooking Channel – Celebrity chefs, including some who have not been accused of sexual harassment, show how to make an omelet without breaking Humpty Dumpty, liver and onions made sort of palatable if you leave out the liver, five ways to cook Martha Stewart, and what wine goes best with

roasted horses.

MSNBC – Special: Did right-wing fascists bump off Humpty Dumpty? Each anchor in hour-long segments -Chris Matthews, Chris Hayes, Rachel Maddow and Lawrence O’Donnell -- interview the same people who agree with them and make the same points, but Maddow is more snarky.

Travel Channel – Syria: Searching for hidden landmines, fracking in Monaco and how to sneak weapons past airport security. Another in our series: Exotic hot spots in Chad. We sent an investigative reporter to Saudi Arabia to expose excesses and corruption in the royal family.

We haven’t heard back. Also Mexico – land of wall builders. A look at why Humpty Dumpty ever visited Great Falls, Montana, in the first

Email jonathan@theleadernews.com

The reader.

Without rhyme or reason Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.

All the King’s horses, And all the King’s men, Couldn’t put Humpty together again!

cling anything anymore? A lot of people – environmentalists included – believe trash, yard waste and recycling are now being taken to landfills. That’s not just in Houston, that’s everywhere, because China doesn’t want our trash anymore.

Meanwhile, our city is entering a new recycling contract with a company called FCC (and they aren’t communicating with us either, by the way).

So if you want a theory, here’s mine: First, there’s a real problem with recycling all across the country. Few countries want our trash anymore, and the financial reward for sacking aluminum cans isn’t what it used to be.

Second, we’re officially in municipal election season, and the city’s excuses for the disruption in recycling services seem more like deflections than honest answers. No person with a thinking brain could come to a different conclusion.

What happens next is uncertain, but the city has a new recycling contract with FCC starting in March, and I’ll all but guarantee (after the fall elections) that you’ll have to start paying for this service.

Here’s my advice: Throw all your trash in the brown bins until the city gets honest with us. After all, those bins are safe from hurricanes, and the blue trucks still run on time.

Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com

Alzheimer’s Association thanking Congressman Poe

place.

ESPN – This week’s episode features Trash Sports with Toxic versus Gangrene to see who can put Humpty Dumpty back together again the fastest, bowling on the tundra, NFL players deny their jersey number is also their IQ, and a replay of the 1956 Rose Bowl. Hey, we’ve got to run something for all those sports bars with 24hour beer service for people who have nothing better to do.

The Bachelorette – Newly divorced MacKenzie Bezos has to pick from her suitors, all 2.3 million of them. A mystery contestant, “Don T,” brags that he has plenty of experience in marriages.

Ashby watches at ashby2@ comcast.net

Dear Editor: Congress just passed the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act with a strong bipartisan vote, and I want to thank Rep. Ted Poe (TX-2) for championing this innovative legislation in his final term before retirement. With this act he continued to fight for Texans’ long-term interests with smart decisions today. Alzheimer’s-related costs have soared to $277 billion in the last year, including $186 billion in costs to Medicare and Medicaid.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, by 2050, the total cost of care for Alzheimer’s is projected to increase to more than $1.1 trillion. By applying a public health approach, we can change the trajectory of Alzheimer’s disease. With this action, Rep. Poe sealed his legacy as a fighter for the 360,000 Texans living with the disease.

I hope Rep. Dan Crenshaw will continue to work with his colleagues in Congress to address Alzheimer’s as a public health crisis that must be addressed.

Thank you, Ben J. Sheppard Alzheimer’s Ambassador for Texas’ 2nd Congressional District Alzheimer’s Impact Movement

Fulfilling dreams

In Mr. Zuvanich’s article, “Houston-based painter using art show to fund college scholarship,” I was taken back to read, “... the event will be donated to a graduating high school senior of color who plans to study fine arts in college.”

Does this mean it is now politically correct to offer similar opportunities for whites only? Because the wording used certainly implies this to be allowed.

But just imagine the reaction from the bias left if this happened!

Bill Green

the leader Puzzlers.

Answers found in this week’s Classified section

SUDOKU

aCrOss 1. Characters in one inch of tape 4. In a hold 9. Jewish mystic 14. A way to souse 15. A small sharp knife 16. Frogs, toads, tree toads 17. Brew 18. Rowdy carouser 20. Poetries 22. __ salts, remedy 23. Expect eagerly 24. Obstructing the view of something 28. Denotes three 29. Expression of uncertainty 30. Greek portico 31. Bureau 33. Electric battery 37. Vapor density 38. Radioactivity unit 39. Strive to equal or match 41. Cologne 42. Carrier’s invention 43. Highest in degree or quality 44. Female horses 46. Serbian 49. Publicity 50. Actress Lupino

51. Supporting structures 55. Jobs 58. Indian founder of Sikhism 59. Capital of Zimbabwe 60. Woman of charm and good looks 64. Order 65. Draft animal in desert regions 66. Unaccented syllable verse 67. Fail to keep pace 68. Sheath or shirtwaist 69. Moss stalks 70. __ Lilly, drug company

dOwn 1. Exclamation of praise 2. 200 island Pacific nation (alt. sp.)

3. Repeated 4. Hungers 5. School of Business, UCB 6. Bobby __, NHL champ 7. Lease 8. More parched 9. Medieval merchant guild

10. Negative ions 11. Top 12. One of the Gershwins 13. Dekalitre 19. Imitate 21. Gentlemen 24. Dawn 25. A citizen of Chile 26. Bright stars 27. Codfish genus 31. Extremely unrefined 32. Diacritical mark 34. Correspondences 35. Indicates position 36. Small cup 40. 12th Greek letter 41. Capable of being eliminated 45. 12th Jewish month 47. Rechristen 48. In a way, imputes 52. Hydroxyls + 2C 53. Follows sigma 54. Vegetable shrubs 56. South African village 57. Monetary unit of D.R. Congo 59. First Chinese dynasty 60. Divides evenly into (Math) 61. Household god (Roman) 62. Pakistani rupee 63. American time

WORD SCRAMBLE

Page 4A • Saturday, January 26, 2019 • The Leader

Houston school board elects president, officers

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com The Houston Independent School District Board of Education elected new officers for 2019 on Jan. 17, naming District VIII Trustee Diana Dávila as board president.

It is board policy for HISD trustees to rotate officer positions each January.

The vote was 7-2 with trustees Wanda Adams and Jolanda Jones voting against Dávila becoming president.

Dávila served as HISD trustee from 2003 to 2010 and was elected again to the board in 2015. She is a former teacher and a lifelong resident of the East End. She attended HISD’s Park Place and Lewis elementary schools and

Diana Dávila

Deady Middle School before graduating from Milby High School.

Outgoing Board President Rhonda Skillern-Jones transferred the gavel to Davila, signifying the change in office.

Remaining officers elected

for 2019 are: First Vice President Holly Vilaseca, Second Vice President Elizabeth Santos, Secretary Dr. Sergio Lira and Assistant Secretary Sue Deigaard.

The board also approved an initial application to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for disaster assistance as a result of Hurricane Harvey. More than 200 schools were damaged during Harvey.

If ultimately granted, the assistance would take the form of a $15 million reduction in recapture payments to cover HISD’s unreimbursed disaster remediation costs. The reduction is allowed under the Texas Education Code.

In other business, trustees voted 8-0 to hire an executive coach to assist the board.

Photo courtesy of Heights Chamber of Commerce (Facebook) Mayor Sylvester Turner speaks at a previous luncheon of the Greater Heights Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber hosts economic forecast event For The Leader The Greater Heights Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Economic Forecast Luncheon from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 30 at the Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel.

The Leader publisher Jonathan McElvy will serve as

master of ceremonies. The featured speaker will be Luis Torres, a research economist at Texas A&M and leading authority on real estate trends in the state.

Torres’ presentation will cover the outlooks for business, real estate, energy and interest rates in Houston.

Individual tickets are $75

for members and $95 for non-members. Sponsorships, which include tables of eight, are available at levels of $2,500, $1,100, $650 and $575.

Early reservations for sponsorships and the luncheon may be made at www.heightschamber.org, by calling 713861-6735 or emailing events@ heightschamber.org.

City, local orgs partner to aid furloughed federal workers For The Leader Mayor Sylvester Turner announced Monday that the City of Houston is partnering with the Houston Relief Hub and several local nonprofit groups to connect furloughed employees living in Houston with assistance during the U.S. government shutdown.

Thousands of employees in the Houston area have been out of work since Dec. 22, 2018, and may be struggling to pay living expenses and

provide basic necessities for their loved ones.

Beginning Jan. 22, furloughed federal employees in need of immediate assistance may apply for a $100 voucher and obtain information about organizations and private sector companies that are providing special assistance. At the same time, the public will have one central location to make donations such as nonperishable food, cleaning supplies, diapers and gift cards or cash.This information will be

posted as resources become available.

No city financial resources will be used for this project according to Mayor Sylvester

Turner.

“There appears to be no end in sight to the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, and we want to do our part to help fellow Houstonians in their time of need,” Turner said in a news release. “We will be connecting individuals with resources and information on how to apply for immediate assistance. We hope to ease the burden of federal employees who, through no fault of their own, are being forced to make a huge person-

Field Elementary nets nomination for national Blue Ribbon honors

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com Last week, the Texas Education Agency announced the nomination of 26 public schools for national 2019 Blue Ribbon Schools recognition.

One of them, Field Elementary, is in the Heights.

Founded in 1982, Blue Ribbon Schools is a U.S. Department of Education program that recognizes public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students perform at very high levels or exemplary progress has been made toward closing achievement gaps among

subpopulations. Two Houston ISD schools made the list for “Exemplary High-Performing Schools” – Field and Project Chrysalis Middle School in the Second Ward.

Each nominated school has an economically disadvantaged population of 30.9 percent or greater.

Field principal John Hendrickson said the department of education uses state enrollment data to determine how many schools the TEA can nominate. Hendrickson said the school has not yet gotten the application that must be submitted for evaluation for the designation, but will begin

working on it as soon as it’s received.

“We’ll do our best,” said Hendrickson, who added that the faculty and staff have not had a formal celebration and remain focused on academics.

Field has long been an example of a school that has successfully educated a high population of low-income students. Hendrickson also said the longevity of leadership is a plus at the school, where he has been principal for 13 years.

“I’m only the sixth principal and the school has been open since 1929,” Hendrickson said.

In 2018, Challenge Early College High School, DeBakey High School for Health Professions and East Early College High School were recipients for the Blue Ribbon.

Each school had been a previous National Blue Ribbon award recipient. However, this is the first nomination for Field. In Oak Forest, Oak Forest Elementary is a twotime recipient of the award.

Announcements of the national award winners will be made in September. Schools that receive the award will be recognized at the Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Area restaurants offer discounts related to government shutdown

By Zarah Parker zarah@theleadernews.com Multiple area eateries are offering reduced prices, and in some cases free food, for customers directly affected by the shutdown of the federal government.

Rainbow Lodge, 2011 Ella Blvd., is offering any furloughed federal worker or

worker having to work without pay during the shutdown a free bowl of Smoked Duck Gumbo from 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Tuesday–Friday until the government reopens.

The offer requests the purchase of a beverage as well as gratuity for the server and is valid one time per person.

Proof of furlough with a federally issued government ID

is required. The offer is dinein only for groups of four or less.

Cottonwood, 3422 N. Shepherd Dr., is offering a discount of 25 percent off meals for federal workers.

Antone’s Famous Po’ Boys, 2724 W. T.C. Jester Blvd., is offering government workers 50 percent off their meal ticket during lunch and dinner.

BCK: Kitchen & Cocktail Adventures, 933 Studewood St., is offering eligible federal workers 20 percent off their total bill.

Poitin, Bar & Kitchen, 2313 Edwards St. Ste. 100, is offering a free happy hour bar snack from 4–6 p.m. daily and 9 p.m.–close Sunday-Wednesday. The offer is one per person.

al sacrifice.”

The Houston Relief Hub will coordinate volunteers to accept and process donations, according to founder Bill Baldwin, a prominent realtor in the Heights.

“Just as in the days following (Hurricane) Harvey, we understand the shutdown has an exponential effect on individuals and families,” Baldwin said. “Our goal is to connect those who desire to help their fellow Houstonians with those who need our help, and vice

Yarn, from P. 1A on a medium. They thought about how beautiful crochet can be and liked the yarn projects they’d seen on other fences.

So yarn it was. But they had no idea how big a project it would be.

“We wanted to be done by the first of January,” Rebecca said. “We went to Michaels to get a random selection of yarn. I thought one ball of yarn would make one letter. I was sorely mistaken.”

Rebecca said they spent the first day “bumbling around” and injuring their hands by passing the yarn through the fence links.

“We eventually came to the realization that it would be easier if both of us worked on a single letter together and could pass the yarn through to each other,” Rebecca said. “We also started pre-coiling strings of yarn so we’d be ready to wrap when we got to the fence.”

Some of the letters were more difficult to do than others. Rebecca estimates each letter is about 4,000 feet of yarn, for a grand total of 48,000 feet. The sisters worked on the project for more than 20 hours.

The location of the installation was intentional. “(Oak Forest) is a great neighborhood,” Rebecca said. “The people are so cool.”

As Rebecca often walks the path in T.C. Jester Park,

Recycling, from P. 1A the-brim green bins. Like Krueger in Mangum Manor, residents of the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and Shepherd Forest said this week that their recyclables had not been collected since late December.

The same residents had not experienced a delay in every-other-week trash pickup, which also is conducted by the Solid Waste department. The city does not charge fees for either service, which are included as part of taxes.

According to a Jan. 11 news release from the Solid Waste department, city residents are scheduled to have their recyclables picked up Jan. 26, Jan. 27, Jan. 30 or Feb. 2. Residents can find out which pickup date applies to them at http://mycity. houstontx.gov/mycityapps/ my_serviceinfo_query.html.

“The city has been unable to keep pace with the growth of service and the best practice of equipment replacement,” said Irma Reyes, spokesperson for the Solid

versa, while sharing resources to ensure basic needs are met.

All are encouraged to contact us in this uncertain time to see how we can support one another.”

A list of available shutdown assistance resources may be found on the Houston Relief Hub website at houstonreliefhub.org/.

The list will be regularly updated with information helpful to furloughed federal employees.

she thought the fence by the dog park would be ideal.

“We put our message where drivers could see it, too,” Rebecca said. “We wanted it to be visible to walkers and drivers.”

When Alexandra’s twoweek visit was over, there was still work to be done.

Rebecca has enlisted friends to help her finish and hopes to be completely done in the next two weeks.

While Rebecca is toying with the idea of placing a plastic card by the art to give additional information about the artists and inspiration for the piece, she said she gets all the satisfaction she needs from seeing people stop and take photos of the display.

“We got a lot of thank yous from people as we were working on it,” Rebecca said. “We created this art to uplift people’s spirits and create a sense of personal peace. We are so happy to know that our message is being received the way we’d hoped.”

Rebecca said she’s treated the yarn with a UV protectant that will hopefully keep the project looking good for a year or more.

“I’m going to keep an eye on it,” she said. “If it starts to look trashy or come undone, I’ll take it down.”

Rebecca also said “You Are Enough” might be the first of a series of projects.

“Maybe it will be an evolving piece,” she said.

Theft, from P. 1A Waste department. “The latter issue is the primary driver to the delays in collection.

The fleet is old and beyond its useful life.”

City councilwoman Ellen Cohen cited those reasons and others – placing some of the blame on Hurricane Harvey, which ravaged the area in 2017 – in an email received by Krueger on Jan. 9. She also said the city was set to receive 69 new trucks this summer and had lifted an otherwise-citywide hiring freeze to employ more truck drivers and mechanics.

Reyes said the city council recently approved hiring Texas Pride Disposal, which will assist the Solid Waste department in recyclable collection, for a one-year deal. Reyes said the city collects an average of 3,800-4,000 tons of recyclables per month, which it delivers to Waste Management or Independent Texas Recyclers for processing.

Once glass pickup is added under the city’s upcoming arrangement with FCC Environmental Services, which

is expected to open a new processing facility in March, Reyes said the collection total will increase by at least 1,200 tons per month.

Waiting game Meanwhile, residents are taking it upon themselves to help fill the city’s gaps in service. Shepherd Park Terrace resident Ben Gorby, who worked for Independent Texas Recyclers when it conducted special pickups in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, has offered to collect recyclables for a $10 fee.

“It’s not a very cost-effective way of going about it, but we can help out,” said Gorby, whose upstart business is called Double Oaks Recycling.

Oak Forest resident Kara Pokorny, whose overflowing green bin is kept closed by a bag of yard trimmings sitting atop it, said she has more bags of recyclables in the garage.

Down the street on Chantilly Lane, Travis Sales is dealing with pickup delay by

not recycling all of his recyclables.

“When this happens and it gets overfull, I just start throwing the recycling in the (brown trash bin),” he said.

Like many residents, some of whom said they were unaware of the city’s updated pickup schedule or doubtful of its accuracy, Sales had left his recycle bin on his curb for a full week waiting for it to be emptied. He didn’t roll the bin back to his backyard because he didn’t want to miss a long-awaited pickup.

Fellow Oak Forest resident Martha Mears said the city’s schedule has been “very random.”

“It’s kind of like fishing,” she said. “If you don’t have a pole in the water, you’re not going to catch anything.”

Leaving bins on the street leads to problems, though.

Along with being an eyesore, Heights resident Joel Alverson said it’s also a danger to motorists.

“I’ve seen some people hit them,” Alverson said. “My dad hit one by mistake and

busted his lens on his truck.”

Krueger, who has lived in Mangum Manor for 60 years, said he’s seen Solid Waste drivers run over bins with the collection trucks. He considers those incidents, along with the extended delay in recycling pickup, a poor return on the investment of his taxpayer dollars.

Krueger said such delays have become more frequent and pronounced over the years, and he’s worried the problem will get worse before it gets better.

“I love Houston, but the city council and the mayor (Sylvester Turner) are not doing their job,” Krueger said. “All we get is, ‘We need more money. We need more people. We need more trucks.’

“That’s not going to cut it. We’re proud as Houston.

Do you want us to wind up like New York, with all the garbage out in the street? I’d hate to see that in Houston, but it’s getting that way. People are tired.”

dence directly linking Mamon to the additional cases, and work on the additional suspect’s involvement is ongoing.

If residents have information or any video, or believe they may have been victimized by the suspects, they are urged to contact Bowden via email at joseph.bowden@cn1. hctx.net.

“Video helps us stop this stuff – that’s what juries and judges want these days,” Bowden said.

Local business is our business.

Send your story of interest news@theleadernews.com

The Leader • Saturday, January 26, 2019 • Page 5A

Things to do.

The Arts Amanda Shires Saturday, Jan. 26 7 – 11 p.m.

The Heights Theater – 339 W. 19th St. Amanda Shires is performing with Thomas Csorba at The Heights Theater.

Pretty Things Peepshow Thursday, Jan. 31 8 – 11 p.m.

The Heights Theater – 339 W. 19th St. Pretty Things Peepshow is performing at The Heights Theater.

This one of a kind vaudeville variety performs stunts of skill and courage, including; sword swallowing, quick change magic, puppets, handcuff and straight jacket escape, sword ladder, the execution blade box, singing, comedy, a talking dog and more.

Richey Road Join Pastor Roy and Sis. Judy Chapman for the Annual Anointing Service for Favor, Victory, and Miracles. Worship Tabernacle is located at 3006 E. Richey Road in Humble. Call 281-443-2357 or visit www.worshiptabernacle.tv for information.

study explores crucial moments in the lives of five Old Testament figures--Queen Esther, Gideon, Hosea, Malachi, and Nehemiah.

Guests and new members are welcome to attend this non-denominational Bible study. Email scripturesharing@earthlink.net for information.

Art by Daniel Johnston Saturday, Jan. 26 6 – 9 p.m.

Redbud Gallery – 303 E. 11th St. Come enjoy the opening reception of Daniel Johnston’s exhibit “Drawings To Listen To And Songs To Look At”, in collaboration with his sister Marjorie Johnston. On view from January 26 through March 31, 2019.

Get fit at St. Stephen’s Tuesday, Jan. 29 9:30 a.m.

St. Stephen’s UMC - 2003 W. 43rd St. Get fit and have fun at St. Stephen’s! Line Dancing is taught Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall. A Yoga class is held Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at a cost of $5 per class. A special Yoga class exclusively for persons with Parkinson’s disease is held Mondays at 11 a.m. in Room 101.

Call 713-686-8241 or visit www. stsumc.org for information.

Men’s Scripture Sharing Group Thursday, Jan. 31 7 a.m.

YMCA –1234 W. 34th St. The Men’s Scripture Sharing Group meets every Thursday at the Harriet and Joe Foster YMCA. There will be music, Bible study and fellowship. Guests and new members are welcome to attend this non-denominational Bible study. Email scripturesharing@ earthlink.net for information.

Bifurcation Show Through Jan. 31 6 – 8 p.m.

HCC West Loop Art Gallery 5601 W. Loop South Oak Forest resident, Sculptor James Ciosek’s new series of paintings, “Bifurcation,” will be displayed at HCC West Loop Art Gallery, 5601 West Loop South, through Jan. 31.

Tunes in the Tap Room Tuesday, Jan. 29 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Harold’s Restaurant & Tap Room – 350 W. 19th St. Enjoy live music in Harold’s Tap Room every Tuesday night.

DRAMA Friday, Jan. 25 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. DRAMA is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Claire George.

The Devil Makes Three Friday, Jan. 25 8 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. The Devil Makes Three is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Lost Dog Street Band.

Tickets: $22.50 for advanced, $25 day of show.

Ensiferum Saturday, Jan. 26 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Ensiferum is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Septicflesh, ARSIS, and Drotten.

Tickets: $27 for advanced, $30 day of show.

Blackberry Smoke Saturday, Jan. 26 7:30 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Blackberry Smoke is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Chris Shiflett. Tickets: $29.50.

Alex Cameron and Roy Molloy Wednesday, Jan. 30 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Alex Cameron and Roy Molloy are performing at White Oak Music Hall with Holiday Sidewinder.

Tickets: $15 for advanced, $17 day of show.

RKCB and Shoffy Thursday, Jan. 31 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. RKCB and Shoffy are performing at White Oak Music Hall.

Exploration of Creativity Friday, Jan. 25 4 – 8 p.m.

Visionary Heights – 1331 Nicholson St. Group Art Show featuring the students of art teacher, Clemente Garcia-Lassaulx.

Steve and Donna Bing Saturday, Jan. 26 6 – 8 p.m.

EQ Heights – 1030 Heights Blvd.

Enjoy Steve and Donna’s eclectic repertoire of Cajun, Texas Swing, and Appalachian Old Time tunes.

Guitar and Harp Concert benefiting Fory Charitable Trust Saturday, Feb. 2 7-8:30 p.m.

First Congregational Church 10840 Beinhorn Road Marc Garvin, Guillermo Serpas, Emily Klein and others will perform in this concert benefiting Fory Charitable Trust and its work with orphans in Russia.

Light refreshments served during intermission. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at www. forytrust.org.

The Markets Little White Oak Night Market Saturday, Jan. 26 4 – 8 p.m.

Sideout Volleybar – 2623 Keene St. The Little White Oak Night Market brings together local farmers, craft merchandisers, and artists.

Eleanora’s Market Saturday, Jan. 26 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Cavatore – 2120 Ella Blvd.

There will be local growers, makers, designers, artisans and food producers.

Epicurean Market Saturday, Jan. 26 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

1245 Heights Blvd.

The Heights Epicurean Farmers Market supports all the good things that bind a community in the name of healthy, natural, clean living and brotherhood.

Handmade, homemade, and locally homegrown items will be featured.

Heights Morning Market Sunday, Jan. 27 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

3106 White Oak Dr. Heights Morning Market gathers local talented artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs to bring you closer to the goods you need. Stop by to shop and stay to brunch, drink mimosas, and listen to live music at Onion Creek.

The Pews Annual Anointing Service Sunday, Jan. 27 2:30 p.m.

Worship Tabernacle - 3006 E.

All Saints TALC holds 2019 Spring Registrations Tuesday, Jan. 29 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

All Saints Catholic Church - 215 E. 10th St. All Saints Third Age Learning Center will hold its 2019 Spring Registration, in the parish hall.

The Spring Semester begins on Monday, Feb. 11 and late registration will continue the first week of the semester, Feb. 11-15.

A hot lunch, cooked on-site, is available Monday through Friday during the semester at noon for $2. The first party of the semester will be TALC’s Valentine Party at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 14. Call 713-248-1277 for lunch reservations and information.

Chocoholic Feast Friday, Feb. 8 7 p.m.-10 p.m.

St. Rose of Lima Catholic Community - 3600 Brinkman St. The St. Rose of Lima Altar Guild is hosting its annual fundraiser, the Chocoholic Feast. This evening of games, a light dinner and decadent desserts will be held in the St. Rose East and West Halls. Tickets are $10 per person and include a silent auction, door prizes and all-you-can-eat food and fun. Reserve a table or purchase individual tickets on the parish website at www.stroselima.org or call 713-692- 9123.

Grief Share offered on Fridays Friday, Jan. 25 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

First Church Heights - 201 E. 9th St. Grief Share is a support group for those who have suffered loss.

The meetings are free. Childcare is available. Email pastordavid. fcheights@gmail.com.

Financial Peace University Wednesday, Jan. 30 6:30 p.m.

Northwest Crossing Baptist Church - 6722 W. Little York Financial Peace University, a nine week class, helps you take control of your money! The world’s #1 proven program that will show you how to master budgeting, pay off debt, build wealth, and give generously. For information, email doctorhite@ gmail.com or call 832-723-4388.

Women’s Bible Study Group Monday, Jan. 28 5:30 p.m.

YMCA –1234 W. 34th St. The Women’s Bible Study meets every Monday at the Harriet and Joe Foster YMCA. A new study will begin called The Faithful beginning Jan. 28. This new

Fun & Games Craft Brew and Canvas Friday, Jan. 25 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Eureka Heights Brew Co – 941 W. 18th St. Join Aubrie Williams of HeARTworks on a creative journey. All experience levels welcomed, as you will be guided step by step to complete your own version of “Keep Calm and Hop On.” A food truck will also be on site. Admission to this event is $30.

Craft Night Friday, Jan. 25 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

The Whimsy Artisan Boutique – 1802 Yale St. Ste. E Make and take a Felt Unicorn Art Toy using a craft kit by DelilahIris Designs. Ticket price, $35, includes all the materials needed, complete with sewing pattern and instructions to make one felt rainbow unicorn art toy.

Participants have to be 12 years old and older, as you will be using fiber needles and wire.

Happy hour Friday, Jan. 25 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Noted – 1901 Lawrence Come sip and shop every Friday at Noted. They’ll pop a bottle of something as you shop or just get to know the owners.

Back to The Future Party Saturday, Jan. 26 Noon – 7 p.m.

Heights Common Market – 1802 Yale St. There’s a Back to The Future Party at the Heights Common Market. There will be an 80’s costume contest, light snacks, photo op booth, and more.

Pony Show followed by popular local DJ. Proceeds benefitting the Summer House Org. Animal Justice League 4th Anniversary Party Saturday, Jan. 26 5 p.m.

Kirby Ice House - 3333 Eastside Attendees will enjoy a silent auction loaded with items featuring local boutiques, restaurants and artisans, a wine toss, food trucks and more. Visit www. animaljusticeleague.org for information.

Book Signing Saturday, Jan. 26 1 – 3 p.m.

The Book Scene - 1820 W. 43rd St. Local author Alice Schiel will sign her new book, Old Yellow Hat. There will be refreshments, door prizes and inspirational discussions. Call 713-869-6117 for information.

The Office Trivia Sunday, Jan. 27 5 – 8 p.m.

King’s BierHaus – 2044 E. T.C. Jester Join The Office trivia night at King’s BierHaus. The fully immersive menu will include Kevin’s Famous Chili, Jim’s Meatball Sub, Christmas Margarita, Angela’s Double Fudge Brownies, and much more!

Open Mic Night Tuesday, Jan. 29 9 p.m.

Heights Vinyl – 3301 Cline St. This is a free flowing, “tap in,” share the mic event where everyone is welcome.

Bingo in the Biergarten Monday, Jan. 28 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Karbach – 2032 Karbach St. Come out to Karbach for bingo and brews. Multiple rounds, prizes every round and no fee to play.

Community Parent University

CHURCH

DAR Day Saturday, Jan. 26 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research - 5300 Caroline St. Representatives from Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution will offer information how to join and will provide consultation and research help in preparing lineage papers for submission.

No reservations required. Call 832-393-2600 for information.

Preserving Digital Archives Saturday, Jan. 26 11 a.m.-noon Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research - 5300 Caroline St. Join archivists from the Houston Metropolitan Research Center to learn about the best practices for caring for personal digital archives. Reservations required.

Call 832-393-2600 for information.

GO Montessori Pancake Breakfast Saturday, Feb. 2 8 a.m.-noon Garden Oaks Montessori - 901 Sue Barnett Dr. Garden Oaks Montessori Magnet’s Pancake Breakfast will add a carnival to celebrate this special 25th milestone. The carnival will include bounce houses, obstacle course, rock wall, craft stations, potato sack races, ping pong and much more! Wristbands will be pre-sold for $10, and $15 at the door. Call 713-696-2930 for information.

Dog Rabies Vaccination

8

$

75 *

* With Wellness Exam

Call About Cat Vaccines

New Well Puppy & Kitten Exam

Kolache Shoppe Grand Opening Saturday, Jan. 26 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Kolache Shoppe – 1030 Heights Blvd.

The first 25 people in line will receive a $50 gift card. Everyone can enjoy hourly giveaways for t-shirts, mugs, and gift cards and enter to win the grand prize - a $250 Kolache Shoppe gift card.

If you choose to celebrate our grand opening by going through the drive-through, you’ll enjoy half price all coffee drinks from noon – 2 p.m.

Cedar Creek Gumbo Cook-off Saturday, Jan. 26 Noon – 8 p.m.

Cedar Creek Bar & Grill – 1034 W. 20th St. Please join Cedar Creek’s Inaugural Gumbo Cook Off. $10 wristband allows access for tasting from 20 plus qualified teams.

Live music from Snit’s Dog and

Thursday, Jan. 24 5:30 p.m.

Waltrip High School - 1900 W. 34th St. Parent University - Supporting Your Child’s Success is the focus of this workshop which will offer valuable resources to help students excel. The dinner and resource fair begins at 5:30 p.m. and the first session begins at 6:30 p.m. Visit www.houstonisd. org/parentuniversity for registration information.

FREE Routine Male Cat Neuters

49

$

5315 Antoine@ Pinemont

713-688-9625

Hours: M-F 7am-6:00pm Sat. 8am-12 Noon

MESSAGE OF THE WEEK

Incomplete Information, Do Children Complete Obedience Matter?

DIRECTORY

By Pastor Will Cover ByArise Pastor Will Cover Baptist Church Arise St. Baptist Church 803 Curtin Houston TX 77018 803 Curtin• www.arisebaptistchurch.org St. Houston, TX 77018 713-659-9697

713-659-9697 • www.arisebaptistchurch.org

Weekly Sunday Services • Bible Study: 9:15 a.m.

• Morning:10:30 a.m.

• Evening: 4:15 p.m.

1700 West 43 rd at Rosslyn 713-682-4942 Pastor – Dr. Richard Walters

Gethsemane Lutheran Church 4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227

We invite you to worship with us!

Weekly Worship Services 9:00 a.m.

Sunday School & Bible Classes 10:30 am Preschool Program • Mon. - Fri. 9-2 p.m. www.gethsemanelutheran.org

Sunday Morning Worship 8:30 and 11:00 Sunday School for Children, Youth and Adults 9:40

Ministries for All Ages Home of Johnson Memorial School for Little Children Rev. Nathan Lonsdale Bledsoe, Pastor

2003 W. 43rd St. ◆ 713-686-8241 ◆ s t s u m c . o r g

As a parent I enjoy spending time with my children. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to watch one of my children Christmas story is full of fascinating characters. Of course, playhe basketball. enjoy grow and we know that Ithe mainwatching charactermy is children the Christ-child, but learnstudying new things.

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God not an easy task thatwe Godare asked her to do.

During herHimself life she Wednesday Bible Studies For Youth, Children most likely suffered becauseone of her choice accept God’s created each and every of us.

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We are finite creatures withlegally incomplete for these unborn children that while their knowledge mother’s of thekill world we that live in andwould no way to see choose the future. serve may them, they instead life?WeThis is a God that knows everything, that is everywhere, that has all a sad day in America as people rejoice to kill their children.

St. James Lutheran Church, ELCA power, and is always good. We can trust Him just as Mary and The reality is,Him. we have been living season in a country for many Joseph trusted In this Christmas my prayer is that • Worship (English) .10:00 am - 11:00am you willwhere learn this to trust the God thebeen universe sent His only years heinous actofhas legalwho for many years.

• Learning Hour.......11:00am - 12:00pm Son to this to dieyour so that your sins would be paid in full!

I hope youearth will hug children tighter today and teach MANNA If you would like to discuss this further or have questions, Pastor • Worship (Spanish) 12:30 pm - 1:30pm them the can truth who at their Creator and why were Sponsor Will Cover be of reached Arise Baptistis Church at 803they Curtin St., created. or www.arisebaptistchurch.org, or 713-659-9697.

1602 West 43rd St. • Houston, TX 77018 • 713-686-1577

First Church

T

Page 6A • Saturday, January 26, 2019 • The Leader

Tabby delivers buzzkill for beer-loving Lab owner

Dear Tabby, My chocolate Lab loves beer!

If he hears someone open up a cold one, he comes running! I’ll often pour some in a bowl for him to enjoy--especially when we’re watching football. Is this ok? A little beer every now and then won’t hurt him, right?

Enjoying a Frosty One With Fido in Forest West Dear Enjoying a Frosty One, It’s adorable that you enjoy spending quality time with your Lab. However, I hate to break it to you, but beer (or any alcoholic beverage) is really not OK for your dog. One of the main ingredients in beer also happens to be one of the most toxic to dogs -hops.

Hops are super toxic It’s unclear why hops are so toxic to dogs, but the

consumption of hops causes violent physical reactions in many canines. We’re talking not only about immediate physical symptoms such as vomiting, wild fluctuations in body temperature and labored breathing, but also potential, long-term kidney damage.

Dog physiology is, in any number of ways, very different to that of human owners. While humans build up a tolerance to beer and wine through responsible consumption over time, a dog’s kidneys were not meant to filter the alcohol content of alcoholic beverages. Dogs’ intolerance of alcohol in part derives from their size. It takes a much smaller amount of alcohol to poison a dog than it does an adult human.

So even a little bit of alcohol can cause great harm to the animals in our homes.

Well, what about wine?

Now that we’ve ruled out beer for your dog, what about wine? There are no hops in wine ...

There’s no question that seeded or seedless, the grape is nature’s candy; grapes are a sweet, juicy, delicious fruit.

While the reason why is still a mystery to veterinary science, there is no question that to many dogs grapes

are also toxic. That rules out anything made with or from grapes, from raisins to wine for your pooch to enjoy.

So, the short answer to your question is that, no, alcohol is never OK for your pet. I would suggest finding an alternate special treat to share with your Lab during the Super Bowl -- like a favorite chew bone or toy.

However, if having a beer with him is that important

The Obituaries.

Geraldine Faye Barbeau, 86, born Nov. 1, 1932 in Gillett, Ark., died Jan. 14. Barbeau married Roger in February 1958 at St. Rose of Lima, and together they had six children who all attended St. Ambrose and St. Pius X schools. She was employed in retail for nine years at Joske’s and Battlesteins and then was an Executive Administrative Assistant for 19 years for Maurer Engineering before retiring in 1998. Survivors include her husband of 60 years, Roger, her children Mona Barbeau, Dennis Barbeau, Cheryl Barbeau, Bryan Barbeau, Mary Brandin, Robert Barbeau, sister Judy Klingbeil, and eight grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Ambrose Catholic School or St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Ambrose.

of a tradition, a quick internet search for “dog beer” turned up many options for specialty beer, made just for dogs -- many of which are made from broth, brewer’s yeast, carrots and potatoes -all safe for your four-legged, football-watching buddy.

James H. Lynn, 75, born Feb. 16, 1943, died Jan. 18.

Do you have a question for Tabby? If so, email her at dear tabbyquestions@gmail.com.

Katherine Sifferd, 96, born Dec. 21, 1922 in Dublin, Va., died Jan. 14. She is survived by her daughters Judy Falcon, Kay Bone, son Chuck Sifferd, six grandchildren, and 15 greatgrandchildren.

Jo Ivy Stuttz, 95, born Feb. 7, 1923, died Jan. 12. Stuttz resided in the Heights District. She is survived by her children Rebecca McCoy, Judy King and Mac Stuttz, as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Pet of the Week Meet Geoffrey

Julio Enrique Mendoza Zambrano, 78, born May 17, 1940 in La Guaira, Venezuela, died Jan. 15. He became a Geologist, and worked for PDVSA, the national oil company of Venezuela, for more than 25 years. Julio had one daughter, Karhy and two sons, Xavier and Carlhos. Zambrano is survived by his wife, Yuvirys, his children, four step children, and eight grandchildren.

Prepare to fall in love!

This 2-year-old Chihuahua is, quite possibly, the perfect dog. Geoffrey loves to play and cuddle, he’s great with other dogs, kids and yes -- even cats! Geoffrey is both leash and crate trained and hardly ever makes a peep. Amazingly, this dapper dude lived on the streets for some time, so it’s incredible that his manners are this impeccable! To learn more about Geoffrey, go to www.animaljusticeleague.org.

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The Leader • Saturday, January 26, 2019 • Page 7A

Art Valet: Hughes harmonizes with chaotic elements Mitch Cohen Art Columnist

Assemblage is loosely defined as a work of art from found or unrelated objects. It’s the one medium I find most fascinating and perplexing at the same time.

My skills in this area definitely lean toward the art of appreciation.

Meet Tara Hughes, a master of the assemblage. Her work ranges from handmade paper collage cards to full-on pieces of art that leave viewers scratching their heads in awe and sometimes insulted.

Some art is supposed to make you think.

Her current obsession with monotones and a matte finish is obvious in much of her work.

I helped Hughes find exhibitors for outdoor markets that Whole Foods sponsored at their stores. We never actually met until she joined me at one of my markets, and my fascination for her strange art form has been growing since.

AV: What’s your background, Tara?

TH: “I was born in Houston and I am a world traveler. I was raised abroad until I was in second grade. This exposure to other cultures greatly shaped who I am. I spent 22 years working for Whole Foods Market ... which also had a lot to do with shaping who I am. I left the grocery game due to the physical demands after being diagnosed with arthritis in my spine. I am a wife and mother to a couple of amazing dudes. My cat, Monkey, is my furry soul mate and my friends are extremely important to me.”

AV: How did you become an assemblage artist?

TH: “My mother is a very gifted crafter, so handmade is just a way of life. She taught me how to do paper collage when I was about 12, which I continued to do into adulthood. I found my ‘voice’ when I picked up one of these makeup dolls at a thrift store. I found it absurd that girls should be made to feel that they need makeup to feel beautiful or that these exaggerated features are what they should try to emulate. I felt compelled to turn it into something else.

This has evolved and I do

work with other items now as well.”

AV: Tell me of your most memorable place to live.

TH: “As a child, I lived in Lebanon in 1984. Although this country was ravaged by war, it was beautiful and of all the places we lived, I find it most memorable. Our village was bombed on more than one occasion and we were finally evacuated when it became too dangerous to live there. We were allowed two suitcases for a family of four.”

Hughes’s friend, Nita Vanhoose, partners with her at many of the shows and creates very similar type of work.

Hughes told me some of her future goals include earning enough to pay the bills and getting a studio for her art. She’s actively entering many exhibits, such as the Art Car Museum and the Black & White Show at Hardy & Nance Studios. She shows at markets like mine, The Market at Sawyer Yards, with Vanhoose. Follow Hughes on Instagram at @tarahugsart.

Cohen is an artist and founder of First Saturday Arts Market and the Market at Sawyer Yards.

Find him at ArtValet.com.

Photo supplied Liberty, one of Tara Hughes’ more controversial pieces.

An assemblage by Tara Hughes.

Photo supplied

A typical assemblage by Tara Hughes.

Photo supplied

Tara Hughes behind a saw.

Photo supplied

Approachable wine bar coming soon to Heights

By Zarah Parker zarah@theleadernews.com La Grande Rue, French for “the grand path,” takes its name from a humble strip of land in the wine country of Burgundy, France. The land is known for its position between two powerhouse wine producers, one of them being Romanée-Conti, which makes some of most soughtafter wine in the world.

The Heights is soon to gain its own grand path in the upcoming La Grande Rue at 1344 Yale St., which is slated to open in February.

The owners are dedicated to creating a connection to wine through approachability.

La Grande Rue is a wine bar with a wine retail space brought to the area by longtime friends Brian Doke and William Meznarich.

“Brian and I met up one afternoon in the Heights. We discussed future ventures with each other and a wine bar partnership came up,” Meznarich said. “I told him my dream job was to get back in front of customers who would like to get into wine.”

To open a wine bar had been a dream of Doke’s as well. It’s been a matter of timing, the real estate aspect and waiting for some of the

Contributed photo Brian Doke, owner of La Grande Rue.

pieces to fall into place.

But around a year after their initial conversation, the duo is making their dream a reality.

At the time the two spoke, Doke was already scouting out potential real estate for a restaurant. Once the idea for a wine bar and retail shop came up, Doke expanded his original idea and decided to take on opening two concepts at once.

While still separate businesses, Doke was able to find a property that would give enough space to his restau-

Contributed photo La Grande Rue, 1344 Yale St. during a special one-night event to showcase the interior before opening. The wine bar is set to open in mid to late February.

rant, Savoir, and La Grande Rue. La Grande Rue will have hundreds of selections of wine on hand, including older vintages of Bordeaux and Burgundy, a large selection of champagnes, classics and new-school producers from the U.S., and much more.

“If you’re brand new to wine and you don’t even drink it that much, but you’re curious, you can come in,” Doke said. “We can do tastings, we can talk you through and find something that fits very appropriately for palate

and/or price for what you’re looking for.”

From introductory wines to the hardest to acquire in the world, La Grande Rue will have something for everyone.

“Another major role I will be involved in is wine education for the customers and our staff. I would like everyone that walks through the door leave gaining knowledge about the ever-expanding wine world,” Meznarich said.

This wine bar will feature the typical cheese and meat plates, but because La Grande Rue will be able to

utilize a kitchen onsite, the menu will be chef-curated.

The portions on the menu will be somewhere between a snack and an entrée to go along with a glass of wine.

Think petite burgers and housemade pastas.

The wine retail shop will have all the essentials for customers dropping by to pick up a bottle of wine on their way home -- from cheese plates and fresh baguettes to a bouquet of flowers, creating a one-stop shop.

“We want to be that spot that’s always a go-to both in

the Heights and in Houston as a whole for a very seriously focused wine place, but not a serious place,” Doke said.

“Kind of a fun, easy day in, day out place.”

The team that is assembled for La Grande Rue gives Doke the confidence that the concept will be successful.

Meznarich’s fruitful background in wine as a founder of one of the top wine distributors in Houston, and the knowledge that comes with that experience, makes Doke feel that they have an advantage.

Added to that is Doke’s own experience operating and running hospitality businesses for more than 10 years, and the rest of his management team also has experience in the industry. So La Grande Rue may be new, but the people behind it are seasoned in the hospitality world.

The team is serious about wine, but they want customers to still find the environment approachable and lighthearted.

“We are extremely proud to be part of the amazing restaurants and bars that have made the Heights a special area to call home,” Meznarich said.

Review: No sauce needed at Gatlin’s A two-meat plate featuring brisket and ribs at Gatlin’s BBQ, located at 3510 Ella Blvd.

The sides are potato salad, top left, and cucumber salad.

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

Contrary to the marketing slogan once used by a Texas barbecue chain, the sauce is not the boss.

At least it shouldn’t be, not if your smoked meat is worthy of being at the top of the food chain.

So there’s a test I like to apply at every barbecue joint I visit for the first time. First I try the meat all by itself, without any sort of accompaniment or garnishment, and then decide whether I want to eat it with sauce, bread and perhaps some combination of pickles, onions and hot peppers.

The fewer condiments necessary, the better the barbecue.

I’m pleased to report that Gatlin’s BBQ, the small Ella Boulevard spot with a big-time reputation, passed this test with a near-perfect score. The brisket and ribs I devoured, which were slow-smoked with a mixture of hickory and post oak, both had flavorful barks and little need for anything else.

Sauce might have ruined the St. Louis-style ribs, which were plump and perfectly tender. The meat didn’t fall off the bone, which some consider a sign of overcooking, but was

easily pulled away with a bite.

My serving of brisket included the leaner, drier cut as well as some fattier, juicier slices, which came across as a thoughtful gesture by the kitchen staff. Variety is the spice of life, and it’s also the best way for a first-time customer to gauge a barbecue restaurant.

I did add some sauce to the brisket, particularly to the leaner pieces, and used it to make one-slice-of-bread sandwiches that included slices of white onion, pickles and pickled jalapeno. No points docked from Gatlin’s total score, though, because the fixings were just as tasty as the meat.

The sides I sampled were a classic (potato salad) and a dish I had never even heard of (cucumber salad), and I’m here to tell you both were excellent. The potato salad was creamy and tangy and included bits of bacon, which counts for at least a few bonus points.

The cucumber salad was

even better and came with another pleasant surprise – a slight spice created by the addition of flakes of crushed red pepper. They weren’t visible among the slices of cucumber, red onion and cherry tomatoes, which were soaked in red vinegar and further seasoned by chopped parsley, but brought the zesty dish into focus.

Equally impressive was the friendliness and attentiveness of the Gatlin’s employees I encountered, who answered all my questions at the counter and made multiple stops at my table to make sure I had everything I needed. That attitude spilled over to some of my fellow customers, who were just as knowledge and passionate about Gatlin’s product.

They recommended the dirty rice, which is one of more than a dozen sides, as well as the sausage. Gatlin’s has traditional, spicy and venison varieties. Both are on my list of things to try during my

second visit to the quaint and quiet restaurant with simple décor and a relaxed atmosphere.

So is the alcohol offered at Gatlin’s, which has wine, a Houston-made cider and eight beers on tap, including a few local craft choices.

Remember that barbecue sauce I mentioned? It also is poured from a spigot, which is attached to a coffee-like storage container in the dining room that keeps it warm for on-demand, self-service use.

It was pretty good, too, a thin, mild sauce that was flavorful without being overpowering. I even took some home along with my leftover rib and brisket.

And when I left I smelled like wood smoke, which is another sign of a great barbecue joint and another reason I’ll go back.

Gatlin’s BBQ Address: 3510 Ella Blvd.

Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday Entrée prices: $11.49-$16.99 Kid-friendly: Yes Senior discount: No Health options: None Star of the show: Ribs

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