Inside Today: Smart swaps for healthy eating in 2016 • Page 1B
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Covering the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest & the neighborhoods of North Houston Saturday, January 9, 2016 • Vol. 62 • No. 2
About Us 3500 East T.C. Jester Blvd Suite A (713) 686-8494
Turner’s vacant seat in House leaves dilemma for district By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com
news@theleadernews.com www.theleadernews.com Facebook/THE LEADER.
Sylvester Turner taking the office of mayor earlier this week may have been easy. But Turner assuming a new political office also means he just left another one. Turner served as State Representative for District 139 which covers much of The Leader’s coverage area, but because he can’t govern in City Hall and in the Austin statehouse at the same time, you might wonder who’s representing contituents’ needs at the state level. The short answer is “nobody.” The more complex answer is that there could be six elections in one year just to get the seat filled (and stay filled). First, the State House of Representatives is partisan, meaning candidates must qualify
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as Democrats, Republican and Third Party. That means any election to replace Turner’s seat would need a Democrat and Republican primary (election number one). Next there could be a run-off candidate if no candidate secures 50.1 percent of the vote (election number two). Then there would be a special, general election for the seat (election number three). However, where the water gets murky is that while there would need to be a special election to replace Turner, this is also the year Turner would have run for re-election in November, giving voters the opportunity for three more elections. There’s the regular primary on March 1 – a partisan election with a Republican
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Contributed Photo Sylvester Turner is likely very pleased to be taking office as the next mayor of Houston but questions still linger over the process by which his vacant House of Representatives seat will be filled.
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HHA wants to go ‘green’ for Yale Street trees By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com The Urban Forestry Committee of the Houston Heights Association will be petitioning the city of Houston to designate a two-mile stretch of Yale Street as a new Green Corridor in an effort to preserve hundreds of trees along the road. According to a press release, the committee has teamed up with residents and businesses along Yale Street to petition the city to create the Yale Green Corridor. The designation would be a first for Houston, according to the release, but the initiative is not the first time Heights residents and organizations have come together for the environment. In the 1980s, with the help of the Heights Chamber of Commerce
Getting ready to ‘Run the Grove’ Last year’s Run the Grove 5k event was a major success for Timbergrove Manor and the Friends of West 11th Street Park. Local residents are now gearing up a second time for the event, as the community continues to reap the benefits of last year’s run.
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Contributed Photo Family medicine physician Melissa Montoya Celi, M.D. (right) was one of 15 volunteers, staff and affiliated physicians who helped conduct free physical exams for 92 area students on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2015 at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital.
‘Smoothie Operator’ Looking for a fresh take on healthy eating (perhaps for your New Year’s Resolution)? In this month’s edition of Our Health, we look at numerous tasty concoctions combining the best of both the vegetable world and the fruit world for nutritious smoothies.
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FIND IT. AUTOMOTIVE WAREHOUSE HIRING parts stockers/order pullers. Heavy lifting, background checks. Apply in person. 3810 Dacoma. 8-5, M-F. (1-16) THE PURPLE CAT RESALE AND GARAGE SALE: Friday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 2126 W. 34th St. Benefiting Animal Rescue. (TF)
The INDEX. Church
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Classifieds
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Coupons
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Food/Drink/Art Obituaries
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Opinion
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Public Information Puzzles
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Memorial Hermann Greater Heights celebrates milestones as part of 50th anniversary in the community
Through the Years · Jan. 5, 1966 – Memorial Hospital Northwest opens as the third satellite facility to Memorial Baptist Hospital
By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com Few physicians understand the bond between Memorial Hermann Greater Heights and the surrounding community, forged over the last 50 years, like Dr. Tara Shani and Dr. Raj Shani. Tara Shani, a family medicine doctor, first began working at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights in 1980. She moved from Lonton, Ontario and received a family practice residency here in Houston and originally started at Memorial Southwest. Tara Shani said she had first become interested in moving to Houston after visiting another friend who had moved from Canda. “The weather was good,” Tara Shani recalled. “There’s so much snow in London.” When she first started working, Tara Shani said the facility was more like a community hospital, smaller in both its design and its personnel. “The technology then was much less available than what we have now,” Tara Shani said. “The whole thing has changed and the hospital has really grown into focusing on numerous specialties. Even the section for maternity and labor delivery has dramatically increased and the building has changed completely from its original two-story, small hospital.” The Heights area has continued to evolve alongside the hospital as well, Tara Shani said. What was once primarily an older population has given way to a diverse population with a large amount of young professionals and families looking for local solutions for their healthcare needs. Keeping those solutions local has been one of the biggest changes for Tara Shani. “I don’t have to send my patients somewhere else
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· 1991 – The hospital’s Cancer Center opens. It has treated more than 20,000 patients since.
Photo by Betsy Denson Judy Pfardresher with a customer at Oolala in the Heights is closing shop.
· November 4, 1997 – Memorial and Hermann health systems merge, hospital name changed to Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital
Roundup: Retail and restuarants
· July 14, 2003 – The 165,000 sq. ft. South Tower is opened, featuring a revamped family birthing center (increasing from 15 beds to 30), ambulatory medicine center, 8 additional ICU beds and a 40-bed orthopedic/surgical unit. The addition helps to expand the number of affiliated physicians with the hospital to more than 600. Three months later, the hospital opens its outpatient testing center. · August 2005 – The hospital begins performing openheart surgery and interventional cardiology · September, 2015 – TIRR inpatient services added to hospital · October 14, 2015 – Hospital renamed Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital; Memorial Hermann announces plans for Urgent Care Center (2016) and Convenient Care Center (2017) to further meet the healthcare needs of the surrounding communities. · Jan. 5, 2016 – Hospital turns 50 years old
2016’s First Bundles of Joy
See Hospital P. 2A
Turn to Our Health on 1B to read about some of our area’s first born babies of the New Year.
Happy New Year from Stacy and the staff at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Premier Properties
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By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com There’s a lot going on around The Leader area which, despite a lag in the oil and gas market, is still drawing retailers and restaurateurs to make a go of it in neighborhoods booming with an increasingly prosperous populace. Here’s a partial round up of who is coming - and in some cases, going, in the area. North Shepherd People were excited at the announcement last August that Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers signed a contract to open shop at Braun’s forthcoming development at 1919 North Shepherd. At the time Braun, also responsible for Ella Plaza and Harold’s in the Heights, said that there will be space for a few more retailers. Now comes word of a new tenant. Moody Ice, a shaved ice shop with an entrepreneur spirit, will be opening at the site this summer. According to the proprietor, “the possibilities are endless with these fresh ingredients See Developments, P. 8A
The public. Saturday, January 9, 2016 • Page 2A
Correction
Police Reports • Dec. 28 - Jan. 2 DEC. 28
Theft 12:15 PM 800-899 W CAVALCADE Theft 2:45 AM 1400-1499 STUDEMONT Burglary 5:29 AM 6200-6299 WASHINGTON Robbery 8:19 AM 3400-3499 W T C JESTER Theft 10:05 AM 4000-4099 SHERWOOD Robbery 4:33 PM 4800-4899 LAMONTE Theft 2 PM 2200-2299 SINGLETON Theft 3:06 AM 900-999 LAWRENCE Theft 8:15 AM 900-999 N LOOP W Theft 1:30 PM 900-999 N LOOP W Burglary 8:51 AM 300-399 PATTERSON Theft 4 PM 6500-6599 WASHINGTON
DEC. 29
Theft 5 AM 100-199 HEIGHTS BLVD Robbery 7:04 PM 1500-1599 N LOOP Theft 4:39 PM 2500-2599 SHEARN Theft 12:30 PM 1300-1399 W 43RD Burglary 1:30 PM 5600-5699 YALE Theft 2:30 PM 1500-1599 RUTLAND Theft 11:30 AM 600-699 CROSSTIMBERS Theft 9:22 AM 2800-2899 ELLA Theft 6:30 PM 4100-4199 WASHINGTON Theft 12:46 PM 700-799 N LOOP
Theft 4:35 PM 100-199 YALE Theft 11:30 AM 1200-1299 SHEPHERD Theft 1:25 PM 1200-1299 SHEPHERD Burglary 3:30 AM 200-299 T C JESTER Theft 2:37 PM 5200-5299
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Burglary 10:49 AM 1400-1499 W 22ND Burglary 8:53 PM 1300-1399 YALE Theft 9:01 AM 1100-1199 YALE Robbery 6:03 PM 3400-3499 N SHEPHERD Robbery 11:29 PM 4600-4699 EDSEE Theft 1:20 PM 3900-3999 N
SHEPHERD Theft 7:40 AM 1400-1499 N LOOP W Theft 2 PM 1000-1099 STUDE Robbery 8:20 AM 4700-4799 BRINKMAN Burglary 3:54 PM 900-999 DETERING Burglary 2:56 PM 4000-4099 W 34TH Assault 9:06 PM 4600-4699 W 34TH Theft 2 PM 1000-1099 STUDE Burglary 3:01 AM 3000-3099 ELLA Theft 4:14 AM 4700-4799 YALE Theft 10:35 AM 2500-2599 SHEARN Theft 10:50 AM 4800-4899 WASHINGTON
DEC. 31
Burglary 7:59 AM 600-699 W 28TH Theft 4:44 AM 1400-1499 N LOOP W Theft 7:15 PM 500-599 BAYLAND Theft 7:19 PM 4600-4699 NETT Theft 8:30 PM 4700-4799 NETT Theft 6:30 PM 4300-4399 WASHINGTON Theft 7:21 AM 3900-3999 WASHINGTON Theft 9:40 AM 5200-5299 W 34TH Theft 4:30 AM 5000-5099 GEORGI Robbery 1:11 AM 1900-1999 ASHLAND Burglary 1:42 AM 3800-3899 N SHEPHERD Burglary 1:10 AM 2000-2099 ELLA Theft 10:26 AM 4700-4799 N SHEPHERD
Robbery 2:46 PM 4400-4499 W 18TH Theft 8:32 AM 6200-6299 WHEATLEY Theft 6:05 AM 10500-10599 NORTHWEST FWY Theft 11 AM 1100-1199 W GARDNER Theft 1 PM 1400-1499 SYLVESTER Theft 5 PM 2300-2399 WHITNEY
Last week’s Neighbors column had an additional mention of The Fuchs celebrating their wedding anniversary. The Leader misprinted their 60 years as 50.
JAN. 1
Theft 8:27 AM 900-999 DOROTHY Theft 5:31 AM 4500-4599 OXFORD Theft 7:13 PM 2500-2599 SHEARN Theft 6 PM 5100-5199 WASHINGTON
JAN. 2
Theft 1:43 PM 300-399 W 9TH Theft 5:35 AM 900-999 N LOOP W Theft 12 AM 1300-1399 TABOR Robbery 6:01 AM 600-699 CROSSTIMBERS Theft 10:44 AM 1500-1599 DROXFORD Theft 7:15 AM 100-199 YALE Burglary 2:30 AM 1400-1499 SHEPHERD Theft 8:22 AM 1500-1599 SUMMER Theft 6:50 AM 1800-1899 HOLLY Theft 12:55 PM 900-999 WASHINGTON Reports are provided by SpotCrime.com based on data from the Houston Police Department.
Dr. Tara Shani, MD
Dr. Raj Shani, MD
Raj Shani pursued his dream academically, attending Baylor College of Medicine and now works as a surgeon at the same workplace as his mother. The two occasionally meet up in the doctors lounge and catch up from time to time over lunch and they are close outside of the hospital as well. “I feel very proud to have him here,” Tara Shani said. “People recognize him and
sometimes I’m known as ‘Raj’s mom’ and sometimes he’s ‘Dr. Shani’s son.’” “We’re still very professional in the hospital setting and it’s always good to have someone there as your mentor,” Raj Shani said. “Even though we’re in different fields we still bounce ideas off of one another and I still seek her advice from time to time.” Being close to the hospital
oughfares to be designated as a green corridor, according to the city’s Planning & Development Department. A green corridor protects trees that are 15 caliper inches or greater on the street tree list and that are within the building line along major thoroughfares. The city gives priority to green corridors for city monetary expenditures for street tree plantings. Each green corridor consists of a right-of-way of a major thoroughfare and building set back areas of abutting and contiguous properties, according to the code. A green corridor must also be at least one mile long and must be designated by city council. The petition must be submitted to the city secretary and requires signatures of at least three quarters of the property owners of the front footage of tracts or parcels that would abut the major thoroughfare in the proposed corridor, single-family properties and their owners excluded, according to the department website. All required signatures must be collected within a 90-day period and must be filed with
the secretary no later than 15 days after the last date of any property owner’s signature on the petition. City council will then hold a hearing within 90 days following the date of filing a complete petition form, and a written notice of the hearing will be given by planning officials. If the petition is disapproved, there is a three year waiting period before submission of the same or “substantially the same” green corridor will be considered. According to the release, “committee members further believe that a Yale Green Corridor would not only provide added safeguards for mature trees, but also would influence Yale Street homeowners and businesses to continue adding to the scenic drive by planting trees in front of their properties.” “Yale is in transition,” Smulian said in the release. “The thoroughfare, which bisects our neighborhood, is fast becoming a busy linkage for commuting traffic between I10 and 610, and the corridor of trees provides a buffer to the fast-moving traffic.”
Trees from P. 1A and Trees for Houston, over $90,000 was raised to fund Trees for Yale. Volunteers planted and successfully nurtured approximately 500 trees on both sides of the street in the area stretching from Interstate 10 to Loop 610, according to the release. When nearly 200 of the then-mature trees lining Yale were threatened in 2008 by a City of Houston proposal to widen the street, citizens and volunteers again pulled together in a campaign to preserve the canopy. As a result of their efforts, the city abandoned the widening project and instead resurfaced the roadway. “The trees providing shade on our streets, in our parks and in open spaces, as well as within the boundaries of our lots, define the character of our historic neighborhood,” said Jonathan Smulian, a member of the Urban Forestry Committee, in the release. “Our trees provide a green framework within which the preservation of the historic character of our neighborhood can take place.” Currently, Chapter 33 of the Tree and Shrub Ordinance allows portions of major thor-
Election from P. 1A field and a Democratic field (election number four) – and the general election on Nov. 8 (election number 5). Including all potential runoffs, there are six potential elections to fill a single seat. Brandon Rottinghaus, associate professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Houston, says there aren’t too many other options. “The law provides that they have to [hold an election] at the next available session for non-emergency sessions,” Rottinghaus said. “Emergencies are normally designated as being in the middle of a legislative session.” What would happen is that
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the person elected to the seat via the special election would effectively be filling the seat until November, Rottinghaus said. A similar situation occurred in District 118 in San Antonio following the resignation of Joe Farias on Aug. 10 last year. A special election occurred Nov. 3 and runoff for that election will be Jan. 26 between John Lujan and Tomas Uresti. While an exact field of potential candidates for District 139 is unclear, candidates are required to be a US citizen, at least 21 years old before the general election, a two-year resident of Texas before the general election and a district resident for one year prior to
the general election. Members of the legislature are paid about $7,200 a year. Rottinghaus also pointed out that although the seat would be open, the district itself would continue to operate. “They still have staff and services operating in the district,” Rottinghaus said. “It will still be functional but won’t have the same degree of functionality. It happens fairly regularly when you have a gap like this, and you still have the kind of staff serving their roles for the district, but it will be lacking someone to broker resolutions and complete other tasks.”
and seeing firsthand how it’ has changed, Raj Shani also said there has been a big youth movement within the Heights area. “We’ve continued to bring in some very highly trained young physicians and I think that will change the perception of what we can offer here,” Raj Shani said. “Most of the hospitals around here have disappeared but we are here as a strong pillar with strong community ties,” Tara Shani said. “I feel Memorial Hermann has given a lot to the community.” On the possibility of a third generation of Shani doctors working at Memorial Hermann, the only fairly recently married Raj Shani can’t help but laugh. “We’ll see,” he says.
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Hospital from P. 1A to get tests done,” Tara Shani said. “For everything from MRIs to sleep studies, we have an availability of specialists that we never had previously. In the past, we had to look out for others in the Medical Center or send them to a different Memorial Hermann facility in another part of the city.” While Tara Shani has had numerous accomplishments at the hospital, she counts her son, Raj Shani, among the biggest. He was born in 1981, unsurprisingly at Memorial Hermann Northwest, and has worked as an orthopedic surgeon for the last two years. “She would take me on the rounds to meet the nurses and some patients if they said it was ok to come in,” Raj Shani said. “I’ve always been interested in medicine and being a doctor and my mother was the impetus behind that.”
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Monday, January 25, 2016 • RSVP at FBAHouston.org First Baptist Academy wants the students of this generation to be equipped with the Truth of God’s Word while developing their character, intellect and potential to explore, create, challenge and lead. Fully-accredited and coeducational, FBA offers Early Childhood through 8th grade college preparatory education on The Loop Campus of Houston’s First Baptist Church.
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Discover more about FBA at FBAHouston.org, or contact the Admissions team at Admissions@HFBA.org or 713.290.2524.
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • Page 3A
Instrument donations needed at Frank Black Middle School The new band director at Frank Black Middle School says students enrolled in the school’s band program are in “dire need” of the neighborhood’s support and need instruments. In an email, Smith said the band program currently has 150 students enrolled, 96 of whom are sixth graders in Beginning Band. Despite plenty of enthusiasm and motivation from students, Smith said the school year started with a very limited inventory of band instruments. “As such, there are band students who do not have a musical instrument yet, and, for many, the family cannot afford to pay the rental fee for a musical instrument at a store,” Smith said. “Because the majority of instruments are occupied by current 6th graders and will remain with them throughout their term at Frank Black, incoming Frank Black students will not have the option to use school owned instruments.” Smith is asking residents to
“We want to keep all of these and future interested students in the band program,” Smith said. “Music is critical to a well-rounded education, and keeps our kids out of trouble, now and in the future.” Instrument donations can be sent to Richard Smith at Frank Black Middle School, 1576 Chantilly Ln., Houston, TX 77018. If you need a donation to be picked up, email rsmith15@houstonisd.org. Monetary donations can also be made out to Frank Black Middle School Band.
Contributed Photo
donate a musical instrument, with an immediate need for flutes, clarinets, saxophones, trumpets, trombones, bari-
tones, tubas and percussion instruments. Monetary donations, however small, are also welcome.
Hogg Middle School seeks volunteers to help library Officials at Hogg Middle School are calling on community members to volunteer for a Library Work Day 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Friday to help with the school’s improved reading area. Renovations to the school’s library have been completed but according to an email sent out by Learn Local, there is still other work that remains to be done. Books need to be reshelved before a ribboncutting ceremony takes place at the end of January. Volunteers can check in at the school, located at 1100 Merrill St., beginning at 8 a.m. Friday at the front desk.
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during our introduction you will hear about: Admission Process Academics Athletics Extra Curricular Activities After School Program Lunch Service
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The Topics. Saturday, January 9, 2016 • Page 4A
2016: Resolve to watch the change in who we elect
I
f you’re like me and forgot to make a resolution for 2016, not to worry. I’ve got you covered. Here’s the first thing you need to know. Weight rooms are for chumps. I stay away from them because I’m stronger than all those people. Cardio? It’s for losers. I don’t even worry about eating healthy because there are very few people in the world who are as dietarily perfect as me. And I don’t even care if “dietarily” is or isn’t a real word, because when I say things, people just love it. They respect it. Look at the polls. Sorry, I got carried away for a minute. I’ve been watching the star of the presidential debates too much. Let’s get back to that New Year’s resolution I mentioned: Resolve to pay better attention to this year’s presidential campaign than any current event you have ever observed in your entire life. Why? Because this year could be the culmination of a decade of change in your parents, in you and in your children. It has nothing to do with Donald Trump. It doesn’t even have to do with Hillary Clinton, though most are still trying to figure out what she has to do with anything. This has everything in the world to do with us. Once upon a time, presidential
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candidates were accountable for what they said. Just four years ago, GOP sheetrock candidate Mitt Romney told a group of supporters that 47 percent of all voters don’t pay taxes and every single one of them would vote for President Obama. That comment derailed Romney’s campaign, costing him the ever-important independent vote. Earlier in that campaign, quirky Texas Gov. Rick Perry, smartish glasses and all, bumbled his way through a series of dumb comments. He didn’t know the age of voters (18, not 21), he said Turkey’s leaders were Islamic terrorists (wrong) and he could only name two of the three federal agencies he wanted to cut. Gone. Even George H.W. Bush’s words had consequences and accountability with American voters. His “No new taxes” pledge lost the 1992 election to a philandering governor from Arkansas.
It’s easy to look back on presidential campaign history (even modern history) and realize voters have an uncanny ability to quickly discard candidates who make statements that are either inane or inaccurate. So assume you’ve lost all recollection of the past eight months and listen to these comments from a presidential candidate: “I mean, she’s a woman, and I’m not supposed to say bad things, but really folks, come on. Are we serious? “He’s not a war hero. He was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who weren’t captured.” “When Mexico sends its people… They’re bringing drugs, they’re bringing crime, they’re rapists…” “We will have so much winning if I get elected you may get bored with winning. Believe me. We are going to start winning big league.” “I will build a great wall – and nobody builds walls better than me, believe me – and I’ll build them very inexpensively… and I will make Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words.” Let me make something clear, before the people who love Trump (and purportedly, there are lots of them) start sending hate mail. I kind of like the guy. He’s built and rebuilt a lot of things, and I admire
successful people. He’s also a ray of light in a political climate that looks like big-city smog. But his comments… What happened? What happened to an electorate that, just four years ago, cast away candidates who made childish, frivolous statements? What happened to voters who hold candidates for the most important office in the world accountable when they don’t sound like the statesmen we once required? I’ll tell you what I think happened, and it has nothing to do with the static answers we always hear. Yes, he’s a breath of fresh air. Yes, he says things a lot of people think. Yes, he’s against the establishment, and so are many of us. Yes, he’s just being himself, and we desperately want someone who doesn’t have a steel rod implanted in his or her backside. There’s something else, and it has nothing to do with Trump’s qualities. It has to do with ours. We’re in an age of quick social media. In part, we’ve replaced traditional media with our own stories. We take to Facebook and Twitter to tell the world how smart and perfect and witty we are. We make up stories, we say things that aren’t – you know – factually correct. The Pew Research Center says more than 200 million Americans
Dealing with slippery slopes The reader. when ringing in the new year Lynn Ashby Columnist
By any count, it is dangerous to live in your house, but if you must, stay away from the bathroom. You may never get out alive. At this point, you could be wondering, as I do, who gathers these stats and how? Does someone from the Home Safety Council (I’m sure it’s a very good agency, but I never heard of it) go to every morgue, with a clipboard and ask, “Did he slip in the shower?” “No, he was in the shower, all right, with the water on high, blow drying his hair.” To compare their causes of death, are the number of shark attacks counted, and exactly whom is interviewed – the sharks or the lifeguards? As for being struck by lightning, I suppose statisticians check with the Lightning Victims Lawyers Association. The solution: Install a grab bar, or several. on the sides of the shower stall, on the shower head itself, and don’t forget the soap dish. Five bars minimum. There is the easy way to install the kind that just stick to the walls with a suction cup. They can withstand a pull force of up to 10 pounds. I suggest you get the grab bars that require several Molly bolts, a welding torch and two licensed handymen to install. Notice how I step out of the shower onto a bathmat that doesn’t move. A small but major exercise in safety is to make sure your bathmat stays still when you step on it. Some 13,000 people die every hour by slipping on bathmats. OK, I made that up, but it sounds as good as some of these other statistics. To keep your bathmat from becoming a flying carpet, only use one with a rubber bottom and doesn’t slide. This one is also glued to the floor, then I hammered 5-inch nails in at each corner. This mat hasn’t moved since I installed it three months ago. I guess it could use a wash. Another hint: clean up any water that splashes on floors right away. This can be done by bringing in a starving dog. Other tips: Wearing a football helmet while showering helps, although the NFL says concussions are an urban legend. You can cut down on instances of slipping by refraining from using soap. Also, there is something to be said for showering only on an annual basis. One more point. Later I asked my son and daughter-in-law, both attorneys, the one medical question anyone askes in such a state: “Can I sue?’
They replied together: “Was there a rubber mat for the shower, the no-slip kind, and if, so, did you use it? If not, no suit.” No million-dollar lawsuit. So always use that dirty rubber bathmat rolled up by the side of the tub. You may be wondering: “Whatever happened to you after the fall?” The next morning, in great agony, my son’s family – they were on their way to the camp closing – loaded me in the car and my wife drove me to a hospital. She never did get to attend the Camp Waldemar closing. Maybe I can sue Diogenes Ashby is predictable at ashby2@comcast.net
Dear Editor: Betsy Denson’s article on Sam Salvato was heartwarming and showed the love a close neighborhood creates. Kudos to her for such a great story and blessings to Sam for all the joy and goodness he brings. Sharon Balke
Dear Editor: Just wanted to take a moment expressing “kudos” to Ms. Denson’s “Sam” shout-out! He sounds like a great guy and wonderful neighbor! The title “One constant in a changing neighborhood” immediately caught my interest based on all of the evident changes in the area. I think it would be a great idea to reach out for more contributing area writers addressing the subject of “changes.” In my opinion we need more forums addressing some of the issues affecting the area. Nicely done Betsy! God bless Mr. Salvato; I wish he was my neighbor! We are down to just one original owner on our block … more changes. Happy New Year! Neil Bennett
Christians do have a choice
Email jonathan@theleadernews.com Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com
Kudos to Denson for article on Salvato
I wrap a towel around me, then very slowly I grab hold of the shower knob, then the door frame, and stick one small toe onto the rug on the floor outside the stall. Then the entire foot. Whew! Made it so far. Next step, literally, is to move the other foot from the shower stall to … OK, you are no doubt wondering why it is taking me 10 minutes to get out of the shower. Shows what you know. A person could get killed, or at least badly injured, by simply standing in a shower or trying to get out of one. Like me. So let me save you a lot grief, pain and outright humiliation. Last summer my wife and I went to the Hill Country to watch, our granddaughter finish her term at Camp Waldemar. She’s a fourth generation Waldermarite, and by now I know this end-of-camp program is a big deal. Friday night, before the Saturday festivities, which my wife has been looking forward to since last summer, I am in our room at a Kerrville motel taking a shower so I’ll be clean the next day in my tux. Standing as still as a line at a customs counter, I suddenly slip backwards and land on the bottom of the tub – it’s one of those shower-bath combos. Blam! My back left side hits the porcelain hard. So there I am, lying in on the floor of the shower, dressed the way God made me -and a wonderful job he did, I might say -- with the water pouring on me, numb, unable to move. “Is that you? What happened?” my wife asks from the next room. How to reply? “I did a two and a half gainer into the soap dish. Got a perfect 10.” Or: “You won’t believe this. Did you ever see ‘Splash’?” Maybe: “No, it’s Diogenes, looking for an honest presidential candidate.” Better not, because this is no time to smart off. I need help. Since then I have been very careful in the shower. Have you ever slipped while showering, or tripped getting in or out of the tub? Don’t feel alone. Here are some figures which are occasionally overlapping: • Unintentional injuries in all places result in an average of 21 million medical visits each year. • More than 18,000 individuals in the United States die annually from home-related accidents. That comes to about $220 billion in medical costs. • Slips and falls, often in the bathroom, account for about 5.1 million injuries a year, while scalding causes as many as 60,000. • According to the Home Safety Council, home accidents cause 20,000 deaths in the United States annually. Compare that with 742 deaths from plane crashes, 0.5 from shark attacks, and 70 from be
use social media today. At the start of Obama’s 2009 presidency, less than 80 million people used it. And one of the defining traits of social media is that we react quickly to stories, but just as quickly, we tend to forget about them and move on. You know how it goes. You post a beautiful picture of your daughter and you get 139 likes. Tomorrow, that picture is old news. Nobody likes the picture – everyone moves on and forgets about you. Donald Trump’s campaign may be the greatest barometer of our culture and our complete loss of perspective. He knows he can say something, have the media storm him, and then watch that same media move on to something completely different the next day. You can’t make comments about women, veterans, Mexicans and utter a completely inane comment about being such a wonderful winner (whatever that means) and be taken seriously, can you? Today, apparently, you can. Our consumption of news and information has changed so drastically that the accountability we place on others – even the person we may elect to the highest office in the land – is only good for a day. And that makes it worthless.
Dear Editor: I attended a live manger scene recently at a church in my neighborhood who had a beautiful Christmas program. It was a cold, damp night and they had a good crowd outside in the
church yard, live animals and free refreshments. As they were parading the camel before the manger scene – Jesus, the Baby, who was held by Mary, a beautiful, young mother from the neighborhood, began to wail. The mother rocked him in her arms and tried several things to calm His cries, but to no avail. Finally, in desperation, she reached into her robe pocket and pulled out a pacifier and stuffed it in Jesus’s mouth. He hushed immediately! Everyone in the crowd laughed to think of a pacifier in Christ’s time. Maybe he had a wet diaper that needed changing or maybe he was hungry. Mary took the “easiest and quickest” way to shut him up. What are you doing with a crying Jesus today? Instead of trying to “solve” some of the problems happening all around you with “well thought out” solutions are you just stuffing a pacifier in Jesus’s mouth to shut Him up temporarily. You DO have a choice as a Christian! Thelma Hull
Shared sacrifice isn’t that inspiring
Dear Editor: Upon inauguration, Our Town’s new mayor kicked off his first term with a call for shared sacrifice in order to solve Houston’s problems. Shared sacrifice, isn’t that inspiring! I once read that whenever an official, a person in power, calls for sacrifice, he’s actually talking about slaves and masters -- and he intends to be the master. J. Reynolds
the leader Puzzlers. Answers found in this week’s Classified section
SUDOKU
aCrOss
1. Mythological bird 4. Norwegian sea inlets 10. Military mailbox 11. Curved span 12. One hundred grams 14. Chest muscle (slang) 15. Old Portuguese pennies 16. Remove connection 18. Gas storage container 19. Conakry is the capital 20. Erstwhile 24. W. Australian capital 26. Dr. Laura’s initials 27. Death notice 28. Irtysh River city 30. So. Am. country 31. Last in an large series 34. Term for alternative musical passage 36. 12 37. A nestling hawk or falcon 39. Vice president 40. Detailed criteria for
a piece of work 41. Six 42. Gossipy 46. Relating to the body 48. Incendiary liquid used in firebombs 51. Plunder 52. Niger capital 53. Game of chukkas 54. Genus Hedera 55. Government prosecutor 56. Plural of genus 58. Born of 59. Livebearers tropical fishes 60. Doctor of Education
dOwn
1. Plundering 2. Can-_____, kitchen tool 3. Crested Australian parrot 4. 4th tone of scale 5. Author of “The Rings” 6. Mains 7. Major European river 8. PC publishing 9. 40th state
12. A tight embrace 13. Large African antelope 17. Impertinence 21. Wild Eurasian mountain goat 22. City in Malaysia 23. Small ornamental bag 25. Nelson’s ship 29. Point midway between S and SE 31. “Untouchables” Elliot 32. Misprint 33. Heme 35. Italian mountain range 38. Surgical knife 41. Purple 43. Forfeited 44. Fixed a female cat 45. An edible tuberous root 47. Formerly included in genus Cedrela 49. Headed up 50. Soft shelled clam genus 56. Country doctor 57. Equally
WORD SCRAMBLE
Saturday, January 9, 2016 • Page 5A
The calendar. OPEN HOUSE Harriet and Joe Foster Family YMCA Harriet and Joe Foster Family YMCA, 1234 W. 34th St., is holding an open house event from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 9. This is the perfect time to take a facility tour, or for existing members to discover new programs and classes to add variety to their fitness routine. Information: www.ymcahouston. org, 713-869-3378. COMMUNITY DANCE SPJST Lodge 88 The SPJST Lodge 88, 1435 Beall St., will host the Charlie Prause Band, big band music, from 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Jan. 9. The cost is $15 per person. There is a dress code. Reservations are suggested, but not required. Reservations held only 30 minutes past start of dance. Information: 713-8695767, lodge88.org. ACTIVITIES FOR JANUARY Heights Neighborhood Library The Heights Great Books Group book discussion is 2 p.m. Jan. 9; Mystery on the Boulevard, a monthly mystery book discussion selected by group members meets at 2 p.m. Jan. 16; Teen Craft: Penguin Beaded Charm Bracelets, 4 p.m. Jan. 28. Heights Neighborhood Library is located at 1302 Heights Blvd. The library will be closed Jan. 18 in observance of Martin Luther King Day. Information: 832-393-1810, www.houstonlibrary.org. JANUARY L.I.F.E. PROGRAMS Lone Star College-CyFair The Learning, Inspiration, Fellowship, and Enrichment (L.I.F.E.) programs this month include NIA - a fun form of movement, tips on healthful eating trends and a road trip to Galveston. NIA - Fun Move-
ment That Could Change Your Life is Jan. 13. Combines the essence of martial arts, dance and yoga. Food Becomes You is Jan. 20, and includes tips on eating gluten free, raw foods, the Paleo diet and other healthful eating trends. Galveston’s Bryan Museum of Southwest History and Art is Jan. 27. Programs are free and held Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. in the library (Room 131 unless otherwise noted) at 9191 Barker Cypress. Information: 281-2903214, lonestar.edu. FAMOUS TREES OF TEXAS The Heritage Society Tea Room The Jerry and Marvy Finger Lecture Series presents Famous Trees of Texas from noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 21. Gretchen Riley, Staff Forester and Partnership Coordinator for Texas A & M Forest Service, will tell the stories of trees, which have witnessed exciting events or eras in Texas history. Cost is free for members, $5 for nonmembers. The Heritage Society is located at 1100 Bagby St. Information: 713-655-1912, ext. 101. MONTHLY HAPPY HOUR Heights Young Professionals Organization Meet, network, socialize and make direct connections with professionals from all over Houston. This month’s event will be hosted at Luke’s Icehouse Houston, 903 Durham Dr., who will be providing complimentary appetizers. The group will be meeting on the south side patio. The event will be from 5-8 p.m. Jan. 28. Admission is free for members, early-bird for nonmembers is $10 by Jan. 22, $15 until Jan. 28 at noon, and $20 at the door. Information: heightschamber.com, 713-861-6735.
From the Pews.
Griefshare support group at St. Stephen’s A new Griefshare Grief Support Group begins Jan. 12, at 6:30 p.m. in Room 201 at St. Stephen’s UMC. GriefShare is a nationally recognized program of support for people grieving the death of a loved one. A $10 donation is requested to cover the cost of a workbook. Please RSVP to the office. St. Stephen’s will host a Fun4Seniors Luncheon, sponsored by Harris County Precinct 4, at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 15, in the fellowship hall, featuring entertainment by Ezra Charles. RSVP to Precinct 4 at 281-893-3726. St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. For information, call 713-686-8241 or visit www.stsumc.org and the church’s Facebook page. New Spirit Of Life MBC to hold revival The community is welcome to attend the celebrations at New Spirit of Life Missionary Baptist Church, 7300 Nordling Road. The Revival will be at 7
FOREVER PLAID Houston Family Arts Center Stuart Ross’s “Forever Plaid,� is one of the most internationally popular Off-Broadway musicals to hit the stage, and it’s coming to the Houston Family Arts Center, 10760 Grant Road. This nostalgic, 50’s revue opens on the Garza Main Stage Jan. 29 through Feb. 21. Visit the website for showtimes. Information: www. houstonfac.com. SQUARE DANCE LESSONS Fairbee’s Square Dance Club Dance your way to a healthier you in 2016. Visit Fairbee’s Square Dance Club at Memorial Drive Lutheran Church, 12211 Memorial Dr. (rear of church), for lessons starting Feb. 4, 6:45-8 p.m., $5 per class. Free Fun Nights are from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Jan. 21 and Jan. 28. Information: 713-957-2762, 713-468-0616. ECONOMIC FORECAST LUNCHEON Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce Reserve a table and invite clients to this valuable luncheon. Hear from one of the nation’s leading economists about the economic outlook for Houston, the state, the nation and the world. Dr. Gilmer will discuss business, employment, interest rates, energy and real estate. The luncheon will be at the Sheraton Brookhollow Hotel, 3000 N. Loop West, from 11:30-1:30 p.m. Jan. 28. Networking begins at 11 a.m. Information: 713-861-6735, www.heightschamber.com. 60TH BARBECUE COOKOFF Oaks Dads Club Oaks Dads Club will host their 60th barbecue cookoff to raise funds for the club. There will be
Discussion on the Christian faith at Hope Episcopal Come engage in lively and engaging discussion on the Christian faith and a light meal. The classes are perfect for those new to the Christian faith and also those not new to the faith. The classes meet from 6-8 p.m. every Wednesday evening beginning in January. Hope Episcopal Church is located at 1613 W. 43rd St. Call 713-681-6422 or visit www.hope-episcopal.org for information.
Ongoing weekly activities at St. Ambrose St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 4213 Mangum Road, now participates in textile recycling. Drop off items at the blue recycling bin located in the parking lot. For information email loriawoods@sbcglobal.net. Bingo is held every Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. in the auditorium. Enjoy and evening of fun and camaraderie. Call 713-686-3497 for information. The Vineyard’s A 2nd Cup now open The Vineyard Church of Houston is pleased to announce the official launch of A 2nd Cup, a coffee shop dedicated to raising awareness about the issue of human trafficking in Houston. The profits will go to educate the community about this issue, fund after care solutions for victims, and partner with other agencies in taking action. A 2nd Cup is located at 1111 11th St., For information, visit a2ndcup.com.
ChurCh Oaks Presbyterian Church New Beginnings Happen Here
Sunday Worship - 10:30am
Bible Study: 1st & 3rd Wednesday Noon - 1:30pm Bible Study: 2nd & 4th Tuesday 7:00 - 8:30pm Senior Adult Game Days: 2nd & 4th Tues 9:30-1:00pm includes lunch Reverend Noelie Day
(713) 682-2556 1576 Chantilly @ Piney Woods www.oaks p r e s b y t e r i a n . o r g
A SALUTE TO SCHOLARSHIP Houston Assembly of Delphian Chapters The Houston Assembly of Delphian Chapters has announced the 2016 fundraiser, A Salute to Scholarship, Jan. 30, at the Junior League of Houston. The event benefits the Delphian Scholarship Foundation Fund which provides scholarships to students at the University of Houston. Information: www.delphianhouston.org, 713-773-4380.
FLOCK A FRIEND OR NEIGHBOR Reagan Robotics Club Flock a friend or neighbor for a good cause. A flamingo flock of 25 is $25, 50 is $50. All funds support the Reagan High School and Energy High School robotics teams. Reagan has been a FRC competitor for 12 years. Visit website to schedule. Information: ReaganRoboticsClub.com, 713534-2293.
AARP MONTHLY MEETING AARP Chapter 1265 The monthly meeting will be held at 10 a.m., Feb. 1, in the community room at 1520 Candlelight Dr. Special guest will be Jerry Kovaly of Habitat for Humanity. The meeting is open to anyone 50 or older, and will be preceded by a meet-and-greet at 9:30 a.m. Information: 713-681-1133. IDOL OF THE HEIGHTS Greater Heights Chamber of Commerce The Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce is calling all vocalists and music lovers alike to be contestants in the 7th annual “Idol of the Heights� competition. Contestants must be 16 years of age and need to be registered
SUPER BOWL PARTY American Legion Post 560 Come by to this family friendly event at the American Legion Post 560, 3720 Alba Road, at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 7. The Super Bowl Party will have free food and drink specials. Information: 713-682-9287, americanlegionpost560.org.
CITIZENSHIP CLASSES The Mainstream Connection The Mainstream Connection, 415 E. Crosstimbers St., will begin Citizenship Classes in February 2016. If you are a resident or just want to begin taking this class, please call for additional information. The office is open Monday through Friday, and offers assistance with Resident renewal forms and Citizenship, (N-400) Applications. Notary Public services available. Information: 832-831-1688, www.tmc-Houston.org.
Ongoing FREE GARDENING CLASSES Beauty’s Community Garden Beauty’s Community Garden, 3201 Airline, holds free gardening
Classes Enrolling Now Japanese Martial Arts 40 yrs experience 8th Degree Black Belt
classes the first Saturday of every month. Call to reserve a space. Volunteers are also needed to teach gardening classes. Information: 832-910-8261, Beautysgarden1@gmail.com. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AseraCare Hospice AseraCare Hospice. 1235 N. Loop W., Suite 215, is in need of compassionate and caring volunteers to accompany terminally ill patients and their families. Volunteers are needed to minister in presence and companionship. All volunteers are trained and orientation is given prior to meeting patients and families. Interested individuals 18 and older please. Information: 713-864-2626, fax 713-864-9476. FOOD PANTRY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Society of St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a local non-profit in need of volunteers to help at the food pantry, located at 2403 Holcombe Blvd. The pantry is open from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. TuesdaySaturday. Opportunities include greeters/receptionist, stocker, shopping assistance and data entry. Information: 832-538-0323, http://svdhouston.org. LEGALLINE: FREE LEGAL ADVICE Houston Bar Association The Houston Bar Association offers free legal advice over the phone through LegalLine from 5-9 p.m. the first and third Wednesday of every month. Consejos Legales for Spanish speakers is the first Thursday of every month from 6-8 p.m. Information: 713759-1133, www.hba.org.
Ad # 36774
Aztec Storages West 34th St.
(Between Ella & T.C. Jester)
Lowest Prices in Town!
No Deposit No Late Fees Controlled Access Lighted & Secure COVERED STORAGE NOW AVAILABLE 12'X30'
Call us and compare our prices to
ANY OTHER FACILITY! 713-681-1383
Guide Oaks Christian ChurCh (Disciples of Christ)
Crossline Ministries www.crosslinetv.com Service Time 10am 24888 North Frw Service Rd. Spring Texas 77386 832-726-4447
We preach the cross and sing the hymns
1216 Bethlehem at Ella Blvd. (713) 688-7761
Sunday School 9:30 AM Morning Worship10:45 AM
Pastor Don Joseph Member of MANNA Visit us on FaceBook www.oakscchouston.org
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4040 Watonga • 713-688-5227 Reverend John Cain, Pastor
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Worship Services 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. (Nursery Provided) Sunday School & Bible Classes 9:15 a.m.
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Preschool Program • Mon. - Fri. 9-2 p.m. Member of MANNA
You are cordially invited to the church that can guide you in what you must do to be saved.
it is the norhill Church of Christ.
Hear The Gospel - Mark 16:15; Roman 10: 14-17 Believe The Gospel - John 8:24; Hebrews 11:6 Repent - Luke 17:3-5; Acts 17:30 Confess - Mathew 10:32; Romans 10:9-10 Be Baptized - Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Col 2:11-13 Live Faithfully Till Death - John 8:31; Revelation 2:10; Hebrew 10:23 The Norhill Church of Christ is a non-denominational church located in the near north side of Houston in the inner loop 77009 area. It has operated as a church of Christ since 1927, it is located at 634 West Cottage on the corner of West Cottage and Reagan streets. The Norhill Church of Christ teaches only the Bible, without reference to any man-originated creed. Bible study services for all ages are held at 9:30am Sunday mornings. Sunday morning Worship begins at 10:15am. Sunday evening worship is at 5:00pm Wednesday evening worship and Bible study is held at 7:30pm. Norhill welcomes everyone to attend worship or Bible study to learn more about the truth of the Bible.
imProving your aPPEaranCE
www.aikibudo-aikido.com
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www.noRHiLLCoC.oRG
by Feb. 5. Pre-registration is $30 for all music genres. Information: 713-861-6735, www.heightschamber.com.
AIKIDO & SELF DEFENSE
p.m. Jan. 13 through Jan. 15. The grand opening celebration of the New Life Center will be from noon-4 p.m. Jan. 16. There will be food and entertainment. The church anniversary will be at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Jan. 17. Pastor Cedric Cheatham of New Horizon Baptist Church of Fort Wayne, In. will be the guest speaker. Call 713-697-6040 for information.
www.gethsemanelutheran.org
competition in two new catagories, Drink and Breakfast as well as the other popular categories. Barbecue plates will be sold for $10 (plates include three meats and sides). Gates will open Friday, Jan. 29 and stay open until 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30. There will be live music, activities for the kids, vendors and tons of great food and fun. Admission is $3 for adults, kids 15 and under get in free. Information: 713-444-4454, 713-302-7565.
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Chase Baker, D.D.S.
I
f you would like to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile, ask your dentist about porcelain veneers to mask any chips, gaps, discolorations, or other imperfections. Your smile can be an asset when your teeth and gums are healthy and shaped to show you off at your best. Imperfections in the shape, color, or condition of the teeth, however, can make you self-conscious as well as detract from your general appearance. The porcelain veneer involves repairing and reshaping damaged tooth surfaces and applying a thin shell of tooth colored porcelain through a chemical bonding process. This procedure is as long-lasting as crowning a tooth and requires less tooth reduction. Porcelain veneers are some of the most beautiful cosmetic dentistry that is available today. If you are bothered by imperfections in your teeth and would like to have them treated, now is a great time to discuss your options with your dentist. Prepared as a public service to promote better dental health. From the office of: Chase Baker, D.D.S., 3515 Ella Blvd., 713-682-4406.
MESSAGE OF THE WEEK
HoW Do We CaRe foR tHe PooR anD oPPReSSeD?
G
iven that there are over 300 passages in the Bible which speak of the poor and oppressed, it is a safe assumption that God cares about them and expects us to help them. In fact, in over 100 of those passages He is commanding us directly to help them. From the earliest sections of the Old Testament, to the epistles of Paul, and throughout the prophets and the Gospels, we are told to help the poor. In Deuteronomy 15:7-8 we are instructed “If there is a poor man among you, one of your brothers, in any of the towns of the land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart, nor close your hand to your poor brother; but you shall freely open your hand to him, and generously lend him sufficient for his need in whatever he lacks.� And lest we think this applies only to our own brothers (or citizens), consider Jeremiah 22:3: “Do justice and righteousness, and deliver the one who has been robbed from the power of his oppressor. Also do not mistreat or do violence to the stranger, the orphan, or the widow; and do not shed innocent blood in this place.� In these hard economic times, where the poor seem to be getting poorer, we would do well to heed the Bible’s consistent message to help the poor, both within and without our borders. And know that God so identifies with the poor that our handout is really a loan which God will repay. Ad # 22283
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
1822 W. 18th
Sunday - Bible Study For All Ages .. 9:30am Morning Worship............ 10:45am Age Graded Zones ...........6:15pm Wed. Prayer Meeting & Missions Organization .....................6:15pm Dr. John W. Neesley - Senior Pastor
713-864-1470
Candlelight Church of Christ Join us for Services in English or Spanish
A House of Hope and Prayer in the Heart of Houston Rev. Elizabeth Grasham
Sunday Worship 10am & 5pm Sunday Bible Classes 9am Wednesday Bible Study 7pm
4215 Watonga Blvd. • 713-681-9365 Houston, TX 77092
Page 6A • Saturday, January 9, 2016
From the Chamber: Keeping those New Years resolutions By Jacob Millwee President, Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce It’s January and time for New Year’s resolutions! Some people love the concept of resolutions, and some people hate it. My brother in particular sees the whole tradition as perpetuating a cycle of failure. According to a study done by the University of Scranton, 45 percent of Americans make New Year’s resolutions annually and only 8 percent are successful in keeping them – lending some credibility to my brother’s point of view. For my part, I make resolutions most years. I think it is a wonderful tradition because it forces us to be introspective, examine ourselves and our habits, and evaluate what makes us unhappy. At the end
Millwee
of the day I think the value is borne out of self-awareness, not the ability to succeed long term through force of will. Many of our Chamber members make business resolutions as well as personal ones. They occasionally tell me about them, and through the years I have seen the trends. From the same Scranton Study (University of Scranton, Journal of Clinical Psychology, Research Date
December 27th 2015 for those who are curious and Google savvy), the most popular personal resolutions are losing weight, volunteering time, quitting smoking, becoming more educated, getting a better job, saving money, getting fitter, eating healthy, reducing stress, reducing debt, taking a trip, recycling more, and reducing alcohol consumption. From my perspective at the Chamber, the most common business resolutions are increasing sales, better use of marketing money, expanding clientele, and better time management. All of those are worthwhile, but many if not all are based on the perspective of goal attainment. That one’s resolutions should be gradable, assuming a fictional report card at the end of the year labeled pass, fail, and incomplete.
From a personal standpoint I encourage you to instead make your resolutions from a self-awareness position. For example, my resolution this year is to take an active role in being happier. It seems trite at first glance but for many of us – myself included – our happiness is a feeling of reaction. This happened, I got some time to spend on my hobby, I had a good conversation, all wonderful things and all reactive. That simple resolution, be active in being happy turns these things into: make that happen, schedule time for that hobby, seek out that conversation. It forces me to sit down and think about all the things I draw happiness from, and plan for them. I also have to list those things that make me unhappy, and avoid or change them. For example
Run the Grove 5k to return in 2016 By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com Timbergrove Manor residents and runners from across the area are being invited to lace up and run again as organizers prepare for this year’s second annual Run the Grove 5k event. Last year, the event raised funds which later funded two neighborhood projects – improvements to the esplanade on West 11th Street and repairs to the trails at West 11th Street Park. Suzanne Driskill, a representative of the Timbergrove Manor Neighborhood Association, said the last part of the esplanade improvements was completed just after Thanksgiving weekend. The project included numerous improvements to the area, including “tree trimming, weed removal, mulch/compost application, and a freshening of the area around all three of our Timbergrove signs.” The project was completed by Benedict’s Garden Landscaping. Four sections of the halfmile loop trail inside West 11th Street Park which were prone to flooding also saw their fair share of improvements with new drainage added to help
with heavy rains. The initiative was part of completing a goal that the volunteer group Friends of West 11th Street Park had been working toward for almost 8 years. In terms of the upcoming walk, Driskill said organizers are going to keep the event small and are floating the idea of a possible 1k run for children. “The 2016 run will continue to benefit the park and [Friends of West 11th Street Park’s] future plans,” Driskill said. “The park is a common area that everyone enjoys and having those trails in a useable condition year round is fantastic.” Driskill said, from a neighborhood association standpoint, the esplanades had also been in need of work for some time. She says before-and-after photos in the monthly Timbergram don’t do the changes justice. “The areas under the trees were full of trash and we were able to trim them and fertilize the plants along it,” Driskill said. Last year, the event attracted about 350 participants and although organizers would love to drastically increase
The Obituaries.
Pauline Zavala Armenta, 78, born June 30, 1937 in Fulshear, Texas, died Dec. 27. Armenta dedicated 47 years to nursing, 37 years at Methodist Hospital and 10 years at Harris County Hospital District. She is survived by her husband, Jesse Armenta and her children, Jesse Armenta Jr. and Cynthia Dianne Shuffield, and her five brothers and five sisters. Richard C. Ball, Jr., 56, born July 27, 1959, died Jan. 1, after a notoriously aggressive form of brain cancer. Ball was an avid carpenter, builder, and tinkerer, a jack of all trades. He is survived by his sons Weston and Riley, their mother Ann, partner Christie Torres, her daughters Tiffany and Cortney, sisters Betsy, Debi and Cherie, and father Richard Charles Ball Sr. Martha Pawlowski Cegielski, 93, born Feb. 27, 1922 in Chappell Hill, died Dec. 27. She is survived by her son, Johnny Joe Cegielski, four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Edmond Gorka Sr., 91, born May 22, 1924, died Dec. 26. Gorka was a life member of Knights of Columbus #2917 and a World War II Veteran. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Mary Gorka, his children Gracie Porter, Shirley Przyborski, and Linda Jordan, ten grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Garland Ray Henderson, 81, born May 10, 1934 in Stamford, Texas, died Dec. 31. Henderson is survived by his wife, Kathryn Henderson, son D ana Ray Henderson, daughter, Angela Carol Henderson, four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
I’m not too happy with how I look in the mirror right now, or how snug my pants are so I’ll be dieting and exercising not to achieve a numerical target, but to take ownership in my own self-image. I would like to suggest a change in business resolutions as well. The most common that I see (as mentioned before) are things that business owners and leaders are doing anyway. It’s a function of business to sell more and seek out new clientele. It’s a function of management to evaluate marketing. So instead, consider making resolutions that approach things from a different angle. Improve your record keeping. Maintain an organized office. Know every client’s first name. Formalize the positive things that you do for your staff. Be more informed and
plan better. For those whom that last one struck a chord, the Chamber is hosting its annual Economic Forecast Luncheon in January, which is hands down the best way in Houston to understand the economy in the now and where it’s headed. 2016 is ripe with promise and potential, and like it or not, it is a year that will bring about great change. Changes in the local and national economy. Changes in our city as a new mayor takes the reins. Changes in the White House as the Presidential Election occurs. Change is going to happen this year, there is no avoiding that. What we can do is embrace it, and take an active role in seeing that those changes in our personal lives, our businesses, our city, and our nation are positive ones.
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Monica Rose Szymczak Krause, 80, born Aug. 28, 1935, died Dec. 26. She was involved in multitude of PTA organizations serving in various capacities at Christ the King School, Durham Elementary, Our Savior Lutheran School, and the School for Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice. She served many years on the Woman’s Auxiliary to Harris County Pharmaceutical Association, including holding the office of President. She was a twice past president of the Shepherd Park Plaza Civic Club, serving over 40 years. Krause is survived by husband Clarence (Mickey) Krause, her children Michael, Monique and Darrell Krause, sisters Ann Marie Szymczak, Matilda Salinas, and Rita Szymczak, four grandchildren, and four great-Grandchildren.
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Austin LaVon Prine, 69, born June 14, 1946, died Dec. 19. He is survived by his wife, Rosemary Gibson Prine and numerous other relatives and friends.
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Messiah Lutheran Church set to welcome new pastor By Jonathan Garris jgarris@theleadernews.com Jay Stallings, vice president of the congregation at Messiah Lutheran Church on Roy Street, say he and other worshipers are welcoming their new pastor with open arms this month. The church celebrated its 92nd anniversary last year and had been looking for a new pastor for several months. Rev. Richard Schuller had presided over the church for the past 15 years, however he took a call to be a missionary in Puerto Rico, Stallings said. MesEngel siah Lutheran had received a listof potential names from the larger church body and he said they were attracted to pastor Tim Engel, a pastor serving in northwest Indiana for 20 years, after meeting him in person. Engel said he was familiar with Houston only by attending a conference in Katy, during which time he met with members of Messiah Lutheran, last year. Stallings said they were impressed by outreach initiatives Engel had utilized at his now-former church and felt he would be a good fit for the area. “The area has changed substantially,� Engel said about the community. “We’ve tried things in the past with our outreach efforts and that was one of the biggest things [Engel] impressed us with.� “One of the things I helped start was a Comfort Dog Ministry, where we would have golden retrievers on staff at the church and would assist us in reaching out to the community and providing care for people who are hurting or might be lonely,� Engel said. “We might take them to nursing homes, hospitals or schools and we even used them for disaster response to provide care and comfort to those in Sandy Hook, CT, who were impacted by the shooting there.� Engel also said his church “adopted� a local public school, partnering with administrators and students to assist the school as well as hosting community dinners particularly for the elderly or those who might be struggling. “I would say that, as a pastor, my responsibility is to help draw people nearer to Jesus,� Engel siad. “Whether that is in a worship setting, in casual conversation, counseling or in teaching, in worship the goal is that people know that Jesus loves them and forgives them for whatever they have done and people can rely on Him for whatever they are going through.� Engel will be arriving in Houston Jan. 10 and his installation at the church will be Jan. 17. He will be relocating with his wife and mother-in-law, and has two grown children – a son who just graduated with a masters from the University of Baltimore and a daughter who will graduate in spring from the University of Indiana and will be joining the Air Force. “My initial goal will be to get to know the members of the congregation and get to know people in the community,� Engel said. “I’m looking forward to getting to know the Houston community and getting to know leaders in the community. It’s important for pastors not just to be a pastor for his congregation but also to help the community in general. It’s important to me to find ways of getting to know the needs of the people around the church and the Houston area in general.� Messiah Lutheran is located at 816 Roy St. It’s Sunday worship service begins at 9 a.m. with Sunday school and adult Bible class beginning at 10:15 a.m. For more information, call 713-861-3072 or visit www.messiahlutheranchurchhouston.org.
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Dear Tabby, I often see stray dogs and would love to be able to help them. What do I need to know before helping a stray? Hoping to help strays in The Heights Dear Hoping to Help, Stray dogs are a growing problem in the United States, and a majority of these strays are forced to wander the dangerous streets or begin a new life in an animal shelter. Learning how to properly bring a stray dog to safety is vital for your safety, as well as the stray’s safety. Our friends at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Science have some advice on how to help. When trying to care for a stray, safety is always first. It is easy to become swept up in emotions when you see a stray dog hurt or in a dangerous situation—like running in traffic. Even if you have good intentions, it is important to consider all options before taking action to keep the situation from becoming even more hazardous. There are numerous ways to encounter a stray dog, but the most common scenarios are on foot or in vehicular traffic. Remaining calm is the key to keeping a clear mind and deciding the best option for the stray’s safety. For in-
stance, if you are driving and encounter a stray in traffic, try to pull over on the side of the road where it is safe. If you are unable to pull over or are a passenger of the car, take note of the animal, its health condition, and the exact location it was seen. The driver of the car can either turn back around to help the dog or report the situation to animal control. Whether you are on foot or in the car, analyzing the condition of the animal is important for your safety. The dog may be injured, sick, malnourished, or even rabid. If the stray dog appears to be defensive and could bite or attack, do not approach the dog. Instead, take note of its location and give as much detail as possible to animal control. A stray dog may also find its way into your yard, which can be potentially hazardous for your outside pets. “As with any pet that you do not know well, you must approach the stray carefully,� said Dr. James Barr, clinical assistant professor at A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “If the stray is friendly, make sure that they do not have any substantial contact with your pets. The stray animal needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian for infectious disease and to ensure they are healthy. Strays are not likely vaccinated so they should be kept separate from other pets until they get an all clear from a veterinarian.� Be sure to check for an identification (via tag on collar). The vet can also check for a microchip, which can give contact information for the dog’s owners. While it can be heartbreaking to see a stray dog in a dangerous situation, it is important to thoroughly evalu-
Pet of the week Meet Dibs. Dibs is a 3 year old, terrier-mix gal who’s ready for her fresh start. Since “love� is a new concept for Dibs, she’s highly motivated by affection--not so much treats and toys, but cuddles and kind words really do it for this sweetpea. Wouldn’t you love to “call dibs� on Dibs? If so, contact Citizens for Animal Protection at: www. cap4pets.org or visit the shelter at: 17555 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77094 to learn more about Dibs.
ate your options before letting your emotions get the best of you. Remember to remain calm and choose the safest option for both you and the stray dog, and never approach a dog that poses as a threat. It is best
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Page 8A • Saturday, January 9, 2016
Developments from P. 1A and an assorted cultural influences.” With Ka Sushi now open at the Revive Development site that also houses Fat Cat Creamery, Hugs and Donuts - and the combination Bernadine’s/Hunky Dory doing business nearby, North Shepherd is hopping. Still to come is Dallas’ Cane Russo who earlier said they’d be open by the end of the year at 1835 N Shepherd Dr. but is still in the build out process. One question mark – the former Texas Cafeteria site at 2400 North Shepherd Drive. Calls to the leasing agent went unreturned and the site plan from Edge Realty shows no tenants as of yet. Studewood & 19th Street It’s a wrap for the three vendors at 833 Studewood
St. – Oolala in the Heights, Heights Candy Bar and Tulips and Tutus have all announced they will close their doors. The decision started with Oolala owner Judy Pfardresher, who has been at the location for 13 years but decided she wanted to retire. Her last day open will be Valentine’s Day. “I’m not going to do anything except spend time with family and friends,” said Pfardresher. “I’ve missed so much with family.” Pfardresher’s daughterin-law Tanita Gumney, who opened Heights Candy Bar almost two years ago is following suit. Gumney said that the decision was “bittersweet” but that she had a fun ride. Now, she moves in a different direction as she plans to pursue her
naturopathic credentials. Gumney hopes to close a lot sooner than Pfardresher – she’s having a garage sale of sorts this Saturday and will take any extra candy to a local food pantry or give it to teachers at nearby Hogg Middle School to use as student incentives. Judy Myers at the children’s boutique Tulips and Tutus sub-leased from Pfardresher. Previous to 2008, she was on 19th Street across from Bliss. Myers said that she’s not sure if she will continue in the retail business and is exploring all options. “There’s a lot of online shopping now,” Myers said. “You have to take that into account.” Myers will also close on February 14 and she and
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Pfardresher are offering discounts on merchandise. It’s not just the merchandise that needs a home. Furniture, fixtures, displays – Pfardresher even has a refrigerator – it’s all got to go. A leasing sign will be up soon on the building. On 19th Street, 18 Hands Gallery is closing up shop at the end of the month. Greg Lewis with Lewis Property Company, who leases the space, says that they told him jokingly that they were down to six hands. The ceramic artists who originally came together through work in non-profit arts organizations want to focus more on their craft and exit the retail business. A new tenant is signed but there are no details at present. Lewis, who also leases the
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Food, drink Saturday, January 9, 2016 • Page 9A
Art Valet
By Mitch Cohen
Arts Columnist
ART
Thirsty Explorer
By Christina Martinez Managing Editor
Meet First Saturday Arts Market artist, Natalie Jensen
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Houston has never been a tourist destination, unless you consider the arts. We have an amazing cultural arts scene here and the visual arts is top notch from museums to festivals. With my art show, I know firsthand why people travel from all over the state for the wonderful activities we have in this vast city. Where art patrons go, so do the artists, like current resident of nearby Navasota - Natalie Jensen. Born and raised in Houston, Jensen was home schooled kindergarten through highschool, took a few interior design courses in college, and has enjoyed art, crafts, and design since she was just four years old and received her first box of beads. I first met Jensen when she attended my show last spring, offering her handmade leather cuffs with up-cycled jewelry and other embellishments. Her display is what caught my
As part of 8th Wonder Brewery’s Dream Shake Road Series, Good Dog Houston will have a tap takeover featuring the new Dream Shake Stout. The road series encourages you to try their newest creation around town, and while you’re there, grab some grub and collect a road series ticket. One ticket = one beer at 8th Wonder Brewery and the ticket tally to prizes carries all the way up to 15 tickets with one awesome prize. The person with the most collected tickets wins tickets to a Rockets game and complimentary beer tokens before tip-off. The road series is stopping here this week at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 7, at Good Dog Houston - 903 Studewood St.
Cuff bracelet by Natalie Jenson.
vintage components, including estate jewelry, hardware, clock parts, keys, and anything rusty or painted that I find laying around. What are you working on now? I am working on a new line of leather cuff bracelets that feature words that do not have a direct English translation. For example, “Suadade” is a Portuguese word meaning “a feeling of longing for someone you lost and is lost”. As a chronic nerd, I am fascinated with language, so I am in my element with this project. What’s your connection to the Heights? I am a First Saturday Arts Market artist, but growing up in Houston, the Heights has always been one of my favorite areas.
Art by Natalie Jensen.
eye, a mix of southern belle meets gypsy. She tells me she draws a lot of inspiration from her Hungarian/Romanian and Irish heritage. I had to ask this full time artist about her background and inspiration. Have you always thought of yourself as an artist or did you wake up one day with a vision? Creativity has always been an outlet for me - from beadwork, writing, rearranging furniture, repurposing and re-loving old pieces into something beautiful and functional; it’s always been in my blood. What I do now has evolved over time, beginning with a box of my grandmother’s vintage jewelry and a few leather remnants, to a wide range of leather jewelry and accessories featuring the derelict and castaway pieces I find along the way. Tell me about your medium. I work with a combination of leather and
Where else can your art be found? I have a website, www.peculiarsentiments. com, (her Facebook page has a list of events) and I participate in local art shows, pop up shops, and festivals. What one thing have you done that would surprise everyone? Though I don’t currently do aerial acrobatics, it is on my bucket list (I do enjoy rock climbing in my spare time). After I graduated from high-school, I took a year off to work with YWAM (Youth with a Mission) and spent some time in Turkey working with abused women, orphans, and refugees. Meet Jensen from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., this Saturday, January 9, at the Discovery Green Flea. The event is free to attend and open to the public. Discovery Green Conservancy, 1500 McKinney, Houston, Texas 77010. http://www.discoverygreen.com/flea
Cohen is the founder and manager of First Saturday Arts Market. Contact him at ArtValet@ gmail.com or visit him on the web at ArtValet. com.
A recent photo from featured artist, Natalie Jensen’s First Saturday Art Market booth.
HOU Show at Southern Goods Something a little different is taking the stage at Southern Goods off of 19th Street - the HOU Show. The Houston act is a unique one, with an interactive live show sprinkled with celebrity interviews, skits, videos and a special comedic proformeance by Andrew Youngblood and music guest Flash Gordon Parks. The show starts at 8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 8, at Southern Goods - 632 W 19th St.
One Day Sales from: Chippendale Eastlake Antiques Thread Houston Fly High Little Bunny AG Antiques on West 19th Jubilee Erica DelGardo Jewelry Designs The Lift REPLAY On 19th Street The Heights General Store Harold’s and many more! When you are ready for a break, head on to Alli’s Pizzaria, where they will be having a special for you, too. Texans Playoff Celebration It’s a Houston party this weekend with the Texans taking on the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL Wild Card Round. The party starts at 3:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 9, at Little J’s Bar - 5306 Washington Ave. Get there early for a great seat and look for shot specials throughout the game to keep
The Durham House rebrands with new head chef, concept
Have a tip for Thirsty Explorer? Email christina@theleadernews.com and follow on Twitter @ThirstyExplorer and Instagram @FromTheLeader
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Kid Friendly live Music Near Karbach Brewery
10444 Hempstead Rd. Houston 77092 713.686.9625
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Buy one entree at regular price and get HALF OFF a second entree of equal or lesser value. With coupon • Expires 1-31-16
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Brandon B. - “I was traveling and looking for local fare. This place was perfect. A huge outdoor patio. Looks like they have live music often. I got great oysters and amazing crawfish.”
C avat o r e i ta l i a n r e s ta u r a n t
Now Serving homEmadE authEntic italian Pizza During dinner hours only.
The Chinese cuisine restaurant will be located at 4505 Inker St. Have a tip for Nibbles? Email christina@theleadernews.com and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @FromTheLeader At the short-lived home of Biskit Junkie, Madera’s Taqueria de Mexican has hung their sign at 2925 W T C Jester Blvd.
itself into Sopas y Ensaladas (soups and salads), Tacos A La Carte, Enchiladas, Tortas, Al Lado (sides) and Postres (dessert). No definite date on an opening day has been given yet; stay tuned.
www.Cavatores.com
Banquet Hall
Seating Capacity: 640 Stage • Dance Floor • Lighted Secured Parking
Whitney Oaks Hall
816 E. Whitney Dr. 713-692-0198 w w w.whitneyoakshall.com
E. Whitney
Crosstimber
Northline Mall Airline Dr
Ginger and Fork coming to the neighborhood A new restaurant opening is on the horizon, with Ginger and Fork opening at the previous La Fisheria location. The restaurant says they’ll combine flavors of Chinese cuisine with a modern style of service. “Our menu will introduce many native Chinese ingredients to the Houston palate in the form of exotic dishes and worldly craft cocktails,” according to Ginger and Fork’s website. After some twitter investigating, Ginger and Fork told The Leader that they would be shooting to be open this year in February or March.
2120 Ella Boulevard • (713) 869-6622
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Former Biskit Junkie property acquired In mid-December, Biskit Junkie, the Oak Forest biscuit eatery, took to Facebook to announce the closure of their Oak Forest location with promise of a new location in Montrose. Biskit Junkie stirred an eager crowd with their prolonged opening and at the end announced that the Oak Forest location was a test kitchen for their soon-to-open Montrose location. “We enjoyed all those who helped get it off the ground, but we’re excited to be moving into our larger more spacious home in Montrose,” the Facebook post reads.” “Oak Forest location served its purpose well as a test site and test kitchen. Our new home will feature a much more diverse robust menu and full coffee program.” The property didn’t sit long. A Mexican taqueria announced in December that they would be taking over the location with their authentic cuisine – Madera’s Taqueria de Mexicana. So far, the taqueria has erected a new sign and menu. The menu categorizes
Texans Playoff Watch Party Ladybird’s Texan watch party party will kickoff at 3:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 9, at 5519 Allen St. Get there early and claim your watch party area.
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Late last year, we watched The Durham House go under major construction and rebranding to bring the Heights eatery to a more upscale Southern brand. The building went under major reconstruction, as did the menu under head chef Don Schoenburg’s direction. The restaurant received kudos for the new look, but the menu delivery fell short for some. So what’s on the menu for 2016 at The Durham House? For starters, a new head chef, and familiar face, Mike McElroy, previously with The Rolling Kitchen for Gr8 Plate Hospitality. McElroy was contacted about the position and after giving the offer some thought, McElroy said it was an offer he couldn’t pass up. McElroy has a tall task ahead of him, with a quick menu turn around for a soft opening set for Jan. 20, and a grand opening set for Jan. 29. “I want to keep with the Southern walls that the restaurant already has,” McElroy said. “There’s a lot of places that are doing Southern cuisine, but I want to stick to what I know and take classic dishes and turn it into something fun and give them some life.” On the menu, McElroy plans to add his charcuterie program
that he’s developed and continue focus on bringing great local product to the table. One stamp that you’ll find on the menu that is McElroy’s own “smoke, lots of smoke.”
the energy pumping.
19th Street Semi-Annual Tent Sale, Jan 9th, 10-6 Shop ‘til you drop at 19th Street’s semi-annual tent sale. Score bargains on clothes, jewels, home accessories, antiques, kids stuff and more.
Leader Nibbles By Christina Martinez christina@theleadernews.com
8th Wonder Brewery’s Dream Shake Stout.
Johnny’s Gold Brick & Pi Pizza Family Meal Making unlikely pairings magical. Join JGB from 5-9 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 10, for Sunday supper as Johnny’s Gold Brick and Pi Pizza come together to unite pizza and cocktails. Cozy up to the bar and enjoy an intimate four course meal paired with competition level cocktails. Anthony Calleo and Justin Ware will show you how perfect pasta and pizza pair with a variety of spirits. Seatings at 5, 7 and 9 p.m. Tickets are $40; tax and gratuity included. Johnny’s is located at 2518 Yale St.
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BE HEALTHY. BE STRONG. BELONG. Discover the support you and your family need to learn, grow and thrive atour Open House event.
YMCA Open House Saturday, January 9 10 am – 1 pm NO JOINING FEE December 24-January 11 Save up to $125!
M.D. ANDERSON FAMILY YMCA 705 Cavalcade Houston, TX 77009 713-697-0648 ymcahouston/md-anderson HARRIET AND JOE FOSTER FAMILY YMCA 1234 W. 34th Street Houston, TX 77018 713-869-3378 ymcahouston/foster-family
YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.
Fran C. Y Member