February 8 Section B

The Leader • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • Page 1B

Patient comfort the key for Berens

Preferred Health

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com When Rebecca Berens and her husband moved back to Houston a year and a half ago, they immediately fell back in love with the community.

She wants the community to feel that same love in her practice.

“We just love the Heights area, love that it feels like a small town even though it’s within a big city,” she said. “There are a lot of vibrant local businesses that are locally-owned, and we just really like the atmosphere and community feeling of it.”

Berens is a board-certified family medicine physician with expertise in women’s health and breastfeeding medicine. After growing up just outside of Houston in Richmond, she graduated from Rice University with a B.S. in Biochemistry and Cell Biology in 2009 and later earned her M.D. from Baylor College of Medicine in 2013.

Her practice with Vida Family Medicine at 721 E. 14th St. in the Heights opened Jan. 6.

Though she specializes in postpartum care, Berens also offers primary care for all ages such as well-woman exams, annual physicals, sick visits, and pediatric checkups and has a comprehensive “4th trimester” package for new moms and babies, including lactation support and family planning services.

“I treat my patients like they’re my family, and I really want a community feel to my practice where people feel welcomed and comfortable,” she said. “I want my practice to grow by giving back and serving the community here in the Heights.”

A crucial aspect of Berens’ practice is communication with her patients. She said most practices now are overscheduled, with patients being rushed through visits because of the high administrative burden of insurance companies.

Most patients, she said, spend on average about 8-10 minutes with their doctor if they’re lucky.

Berens, however, spends 30 to 60 minutes with each patient.

DIRECTORY Chiropractic Care

NORTHWEST CHIROPRACTIC George G. Junkin, D.C. D.A.C.B.N. Nutritionist 11500 NW Frwy - Suite 201 Houston, Texas 77092 Tel: 713-686-0828 www.drjunkin.com Internal Medicine Dr. Rebecca Berens

“Our membership model cuts out the restrictions of insurance companies and allows me to be accessible to my patients and have longer visits with them,” she said. “…I want to know them and understand their story, not just their numbers and data. I want to actually understand them as a person and be able to provide more holistic care that way.”

To that end, Berens will offer her patients same or next day visits and after-hours availability for urgent needs in efforts to avoid what she called disjointed care. Many clinics, she said, do not offer after-hours care or telemedicine, thus patients who need immediate assistance must

go to an urgent care center or emergency room with an unfamiliar practitioner, complicating treatment.

Member patients would be able to call or text Berens, or even consult over video chat to make sure the appointments they need are as accessible as possible.

“I’m trying to offer more than just a doctor’s visit, I want to build relationships with my patients,” she said.

Dr. Berens’ practice is currently open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information on the practice and what they have to offer, call 713-766-4496, or visit www.vidafamilydpc.com to schedule a free meet and greet.

Dr. Jaclyn Harrison Heights Health Tower 1900 North Loop West Suite 580 713-714-5376 www.whiteoakmedicalassociates.com Obstetrics / Gynecology

This article is part of the Leader Experts series, where companies pay for editorial space on topics important to the community. If you’d like to be a Leader Expert, contact us at (713) 686-8494.

DR. STEPHANIE FULTON Stephanie Fulton, M.D.

New oral drug for peanut allergies approved by FDA ful.

That’s because Kylie – now 14 – finished a three-year peanut deWhen Megan Salch’s daughter, sensitization study at Kylie, was just shy of 2 years old, Texas Children’s Hosthe Garden Oaks mom gave her pital last summer. The a saltine with peanut butter on it FDA-approved study as Kylie’s pediatrician had recominvolved ingesting mended holding off on peanuts until peanut flour and then this time. Kylie’s reaction was immepeanuts in increasing diate and it necessitated a trip to the doses under medical emergency room. supervision. The fami“When your child is that allergic, ly travelled every other it is terrifying,” Salch said. week to the hospital.

Kylie is not alone. Peanut aller“It was a very long gies affect an estimated 1.2 percent and very trying three of the overall U.S. population and years,” Salch said. about 2.5 percent of the pediatric Dr. Aikaterini Anagnostou It was heartbreakpopulation, according to the Ameriing as well, because after can Journal of Managed Care. The Journal said they are the most common food a wash-out period of a month in which study allergy in children, affecting about 25 percent protocol dictated that Kylie go peanut free for of those with a food allergy, and are a leading a month and then eat peanuts again, she had a reaction on the first one. For now, the family is cause of allergy-related death in children.

That’s why the announcement about Palforzia, still figuring out its next steps.

“With (Palforzia), it seems the ramp-up period the first FDA-approved drug for treating peanut allergy with oral immunotherapy - meaning a is less stressful,” Salch said. “And it still gives small dose of the allergen can be swallowed in- people the promise of more protection.”

Executives from Aimmune Therapeutics, stead of given by injection – was such big news.

For her part, Salch is both cautious and hope- which developed the drug, told the Associated

By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com

Press that their hope is that it will be “a matter of weeks” before doctors can start prescribing the drug. The treatment’s list price is $890 a Major Hospitals month, with insurance covering a portion of that cost. Aimmune said it will work with insurance companies for coverage, and will offer a patient co-pay assistance program.

The Leader spoke with Dr. Aikaterini Anagnostou, director of the Food Immunotherapy Program at Texas Children’s Hospital and Associate Professor of Pediatric Allergy, Baylor College of Medicine to get her thoughts about the drug.

Anagnostou also treated Kylie Salch.

1635 North Loop West “The availability of the first approved drug for Houston, Texas 77008 treating peanut allergy with oral immunotheraTel: 713-867-2000 py is a major advancement in the field of food memorialhermann.org allergies,” Anagnostou said. “Peanut-allergic paPhysician Referral tients will now have access to active manage713.222.CARE ment options and a standardized treatment for their food allergy.”

Anagnostou said increasing daily doses of Palforzia are given over several months, under medical supervision, with the aim to achieve “desensiUplifting In-Home Senior Care tization” – which is the ability to tolerate • Bathing and Incontinence Care larger doses of peanut

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FBMS hosting community health fair Feb. 15

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com Frank Black Middle School will host the Northwest Community Health Fair on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 9 a.m.—noon on the school grounds at 1575 Chantilly Ln. A partnership between Houston ISD, northwest area churches and healthcare providers from around Houston, the fair aims to connect community members with the physical and mental health options and resources available to them.

“The idea is to bring everyone together and have a free event that has elements to it that will provide this information,” said Stevens Elementary Wraparound Specialist Tim Weltin, who is helping to coordinate the event.

The fair will feature topics such as immunizations, affordable clinic information and special needs resources as well as special breakout sessions on cyber bullying, stress management, suicide prevention and mental health wellness.

Vendors for the event include Humana, Interfaith Ministries and Avenue 360 Health and Wellness, the latter of which has an office at 2150 W. 18th St. in the Heights.

Additionally, there will be

prize drawings that include Astros and Rockets tickets, autographed Texans gear, tablets, laptops and more.

Weltin said the event is the

first collaboration of its kind and is free and open to all community members.

Anyone wishing to preregister, donate, volunteer

or find more information on the fair can visit the event’s website at nwcommunityhealthfair.com/.

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Page 2B • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • The Leader

Every bite counts in maintaining oral health

By Shana Tatum

shown to support positive nitric oxide production and thereby support a healthy oral microbiome. Green tea can also be supportive, contributing polyphenol power.

Reduce sugar intake. Most everyone knows it contributes to cavities, but it also changes the pH balance in the mouth making some beneficial bacteria populations decline. When a drop in pH goes below 5.5, there is more loss of mineral structure on the tooth’s sur-

statum@wellness-collaborative.com

As a registered dietitian, digestion is always at the root of my work. I am consistently amazed at the body’s ability to take in food and convert it to the basic units of energy that fuel and power us.

As a refresher, the gastrointestinal tract or GI tract is a long hollow tube that begins with the mouth, includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large intestines and the anus. The liver, pancreas and gallbladder are the associated organs to the digestive system. All points along the way have a significant role to play, but today’s article highlights the importance at the start of the tube and the health of our mouth.

The oral cavity is home to more than 700 species of microorganisms. It has been studied that bacteria in the mouth serve to seed and influence the bacterial colonization in the gut. Up to 45 percent of the bacteria in the mouth and intestines are shared species. If the oral microbiome is imbalanced, meaning less “good” and more “bad” bacteria, likely a similar dysbiosis will present in the gut.

Inflammatory bowel disease is one such condition that is strongly linked with periodontal disease. Higher populations of “bad” bacteria have been seen in patients with untreated oral inflammation and gum disease. A diet rich in non-starchy vegetables, low-sugar fruits and reduced pro-inflammatory omega 6 fatty acids can be a good way to support better oral health.

There is increasing evidence that links many chronic diseases to the health of the mouth. Conditions such as obesity, PCOS, type 2 diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease as well as anxiety and depression all have a connection to an imbalance of microorganisms in both the mouth and the intestines.

Most notable is cardiovascular disease. Markers of sys-

Tatum

temic inflammation are often seen in patients with poor dental hygiene. Low levels of nitric oxide, a key molecule for heart health, have been shown to correlate with heart disease and an increase in blood pressure. Nitrate-reducing bacteria living in the mouth contribute up to 25 percent of the body’s nitric oxide.

Antiseptic mouth wash has been shown to disrupt this conversion. Avoid mouthwash with chlorhexidine. This has been shown to reduce 90 percent of the nitrate-reducing bacteria in the mouth affecting heart health and blood pressure. Instead, choose other polyherbal washes such as those containing neem, cinnamon, aloe vera or tea tree oil.

So what are some steps you can take in addition to brushing and flossing?

Consume probiotics. Probiotics such as the Lactobacillus species (L. paracasei, L. salivarius, L. plantarum) can inhibit pathogenic organisms that create periodontal disease and cavities. These probiotics can be found in cultured dairy foods like yogurt and kefir or cultured vegetables such as kimchi and sauerkraut. Added benefits of cultured dairy is the mineralization supplied with calcium.

You may also consider a probiotic toothpaste or oral rinse to increase your diversity.

Add more greens. In season now, greens such as kale, spinach, collard and turnip greens offer important vitamins and minerals. Cabbage, celery and broccoli have been

face. This produces decay.

When your cravings send you for something sweet, choose low-sugar fruits such as blueberries and strawberries rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. Or, include xylitol chewing gum if you can tolerate sugar alcohols. This sweetener has been shown to increase saliva and kill the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

Stay hydrated. Saliva’s main ingredient is water -- 99 per-

cent, in fact. Ideal levels of water in saliva help neutralize the acids produced by bacteria. Dehydration and dry mouth can reduce the effectiveness of saliva. This important liquid is composed of antimicrobials, enzymes and mucus to help digestion and the body makes somewhere between two and four pints per day. Aim to drink half your body weight in ounces each day. For example, if you weigh 170 pounds, drink 85 ounces

per day.

The health of the mouth and the oral microbiome depend on many things. Including diversity of microorganism species and knowing your risks for disease and the relation to oral health are two good steps. Using food as medicine by incorporating targeted foods in the diet will support better health and maintain a strong oral microbiome.

Women’s Health Directory Directory of Local Female Health Service Professionals Dr. Stephanie Fulton Dr. Fulton is certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her practice consists of obstetrics, gynecology, and cosmetic procedures such as laser hair removal.

She is a graduate of the University of Texas and completed residency at St. Vincent’s Medical Center where she was a Chief Resident.

Dr. Fulton volunteers as part of the health team ministry of her church.

1740 W. 27 St. Suite 301 • Houston, TX 77008 713-880-2727 www.fultonobgyn.com

Dr. Attiya S. Khan Dr. Khan focuses on the prevention of heart disease through early diagnosis and provides the latest interventional techniques to treat coronary and peripheral vascular diseases.

She is one of the few female interventional cardiologists in Houston available to perform emergency angioplasties and stents for patients who are experiencing a heart attack.

1631 North Loop West, Ste. 220 • Houston TX 77008 713-365-0786 www.nwcardiology.net

Dr. Becky J. Fredrickson Board Certified Ophthalmologist.

Dr. Fredrickson has been practicing ophthalmology for over 12 years. She routinely sees patients for diabetes, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and ocular infections. She specializes in surgical procedures including cataract, eyelid lifts, eyelid cysts, Botox and Juvederm, and pterygia.

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Dr. Jaclyn Harrison, M.D. Board Certified Internal Medicine Dr. Jaclyn Harrison, a board certified internal medicine physician, has opened a new primary care/internal medicine practice, White Oak Medical Associates in the Heights.

She believes patients deserve their doctor’s focused attention, personalized care, and is devoted to compassionate, effective treatment for her patients.

1900 North Loop W, Suite 580 • Houston, TX 77018 713-714-5376 Whiteoakmedicalassociates.com

The Leader • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • Page 3B

Neighbors at ease after sale of controversial Heights property

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

Gary Mosley has slept a little easier the last few months.

The Heights resident and restaurateur no longer has to worry about a road running alongside his backyard or a condominium complex within earshot of his property. All he hears are birds chirping and trees rustling, which is exactly the way he likes it.

Mosley spent 15 years fighting a proposed condo development immediately southeast of his home on East 5th Street, which dead-ends at a gully that feeds into nearby White Oak Bayou. On the other side of the gully is a wooded, 1.4-acre tract of land that a Canada-based developer bought in 2004 and made several attempts to turn into condos.

Having had its plans repeatedly thwarted – largely because there is no road leading to the property – the developer sold the land in October to the Houston Parks Board and Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD). It is owned by the HCFCD and will be used in perpetuity for floodplain preservation and green space.

“For the whole community, it was a relief,” Mosley said. “We fought for many years for this.”

Chip Place, managing director of capital programs for the Houston Parks Board, said the nonprofit bought the 60,000 square foot property that sits along the Heights Hike and Bike Trail in a joint venture with the flood control district. He said the HCFCD put up $900,000 of the $1.5 million purchase price, with the parks board using privately donated funds to cover the remaining $600,000.

Surge Homes president Louis Conrad, whose real estate development

firm is affiliated with the previous land owner, Viewpoint at the Heights LP, said the sale amounted to a loss for the developer and its investors because they had spent a significant amount of money on architectural designs, engineering and attorney’s fees. The developer’s attempts to create access points by extending 5th Street and Frasier Street, which is north of the hike and bike trail, were denied by the Texas Department of Transportation and the City of Houston, which received multiple variance requests over the last 15 years.

According to the city’s Planning and Development Department, the developer had at least one opportunity to construct an access point but let an approved plat expire. The developer’s desire to build a condo complex, instead of residences on a smaller scale, also inhibited its plan.

Ultimately, Conrad said the developer decided to sell to remain harmonious with the city and its neighbors in the Heights. He also said the developer’s success with other projects in Houston helped to absorb the loss.

“Getting along with the city, getting along with the neighborhood, does not bring you monetary value to your pocket. But it brings value to our culture (as a company),” Conrad said.

“Overall, we’re happy.”

Adrian Villegas, senior land acquisition manager for the Houston Parks Board, said it had been eyeing the property for a while. Place said it was purchased as part of the Bayou Greenways 2020 initiative, which aims to transform 3,000 acres of underutilized land along Houston’s nine major waterways and create a 150-mile network of connected parks and trails.

On the other side of White Oak Bayou, where the hike and bike trail crosses Studemont Street, is where

Graphic from Houston Parks Board The Heights property outlined in yellow was purchased in October by the Houston Parks Board and Harris County Flood Control District. It was sold by Viewpoint at the Heights LP, which attempted to construct a condominium complex there.

Bayou Greenways Park will be located. Place said a specific use for the more recently acquired property has yet to be determined.

It will remain green space for the time being, which is ideal for Mosley and his neighbors on East 5th Street.

“It turned out to be just the right

resolution at the end of the day,” Place said. “Developing this property was always going to be difficult. …

Everything worked out for the best.”

Economist addresses impacts of lull in oil industry

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

It’s been nearly 25 years since the Oilers skipped town, but the nickname is still plenty applicable to the city where they first played football.

The oil and gas industry is deeply rooted in Houston, and more than 200 business leaders from the area were reminded of that last week at the Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel. That’s where the Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Economic Forecast Luncheon featuring Houston economy expert Bill Gilmer, whose presentation centered around the oil industry and its impact on the local economy.

“We’ve had Dr. Gilmer here for several years, and it seems like it always revolves around oil,” said attendee Scott Lester, the market president for Allegiance Bank. “That’s what we are here in Houston, Texas.

We’re still an oil town. And as oil goes, so does Houston go.”

According to Gilmer, an economics professor at the University of Houston’s Bauer School of Business and the director of the Institute for Regional Forecasting, oil-related

jobs have declined as U.S. oil production has slowed and the fracking industry has lost the backing of Wall Street investors. Gilmer said a credit crunch also contributed to slowed oilfield activity in 2019.

Gilmer said total investment in the U.S. oil industry last year was down 52 percent compared to 2014 and down 27.6 percent from 2018.

Still, Gilmer said the oil industry recently started to stabilize and could see moderate growth this year. He said the expansion of chemical projects was key to helping Houston offset the drilling bust.

“From what I saw and from everything that Dr. Gilmer talked about it, I think for the next two years we’re going to stay pretty flat-lined,” said Louis Gill, the new president of the Heights chamber of commerce. “I didn’t see anything that he said that was going to put us into a recession.”

Gilmer cautioned, though, that a recession could strike quickly, even within the span of two quarters. So that’s something to watch out for in the Houston area.

David Schein, the associate dean and director of graduate programs at Cameron School

cades.

Lester and Eric Hancock, a real estate analyst for Lane Property Tax Advocates, both said they are encouraged by the city’s economic outlook for 2020.

“My takeaway is while there’s potentially some slowness in the economy, overall

I think it’s going to be on the upside,” Hancock said. “I go to various other events like this with economists, and everyone seems to have a different point of view on it. But overall, from what I’ve seen, I think we’re going to see a positive year ahead of us.”

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Photo by Adam Zuvanich University of Houston professor Bill Gilmer speaks to attendees of the Economic Forecast Luncheon hosted Jan. 30 by the Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce.

of Business at the University of St. Thomas, said the school could face challenges in 2021 in terms of helping graduating students land jobs and internships.

“I think more likely than not, we probably won’t have a recession this year,” Schein said. “Regardless of who’s the (U.S. president after November’s election), we’ll probably be looking at at least a dip if

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not a recession in 2021.”

In the more immediate future, though, Gilmer said prospects for the local economy are fair. He said Houston’s unemployment rate now roughly matches that of the national unemployment rate of 3.5 percent, the lowest rate in de-

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Page 4B • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • The Leader

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The Leader • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • Page 5B

IS IT HEARTBURN OR SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS? Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a severe form of acid reflux, is a common disorder that occurs when stomach contents flow backwards into the esophagus. It is caused by a malfunctioning valve between the esophagus and the stomach.

Classic symptoms of GERD include frequent, painful heartburn and the regurgitation of acid or food. Painful swallowing, chronic coughing and hoarseness are other symptoms. Left untreated, this condition can damage the esophagus and lead to esophageal cancer.

Dr. Tomas DaVee, a board-certified interventional gastroenterologist affiliated with the Heartburn and Reflux Program at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital, warns that antacids only relieve the symptoms without treating the underlying cause. Long-term, chronic acid reflux can lead to bigger problems, including inflammation (esophagitis), acid erosion or even esophageal cancer.

Several things can cause GERD. One of the most common problems is a hiatal hernia—a small hole in the diaphragm that allows a small part of the stomach to push through into the chest. This can prevent the valve that supposed to keep acid where it belongs from functioning properly. Other things that can trigger heartburn symptoms, according to Dr. DaVee, are obesity and insufficient motility (muscle contractions

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that move food down the esophagus) as well as spicy, caffeinated, acidic or fatty foods and beverages.

usually be treated or repaired. Often, it can eliminate the need for acid-blocking medications in the majority of patients.

Dr. DaVee advises patients to monitor their reactions to specific foods and adjust intake or timing, rather than make sweeping changes to their diets. For instance, since most reflux incidents occur when the person is lying down, a wake-up coffee generally is okay, especially if you don’t drink any more for at least 10 hours before bedtime. That’s the amount of time it, generally, takes for 75 percent of caffeine to dissipate. According to Dr. DaVee, avoiding any “trigger” foods later in the day may reduce the frequency of reflux, since most reflux occurs while people sleep, and gravity is no longer working to keep food and fluids down in the stomach.

Extended use of acid-blockers, according to Dr. DaVee, brings a different set of long-term risks. Recent studies have indicated a link to chronic kidney disease, osteoporosis, heart disease, infectious diarrhea or even dementia.

“Although acid-blockers have been approved for brief over-the-counter use, the FDA has only approved them for prescription use up to eight weeks,” he says. “If someone’s been taking antacid regularly for longer than two months, it’s time to find out what’s causing the heartburn and consider fi xing it.”

Self-diagnosis may be tempting, but it has downsides, according to Dr. DaVee. “A lot of times, the patient is correct, but the symptoms of acid reflux can also be caused by other conditions, including heart attack or esophageal cancer,” he warns. “It’s important for a primary care physician or gastroenterologist to check patients for ‘red flag’ signs that suggest an alternate diagnosis.”

The Heartburn and Reflux Program at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights can help patients do just that. The program brings together an affiliated team of interventional gastroenterologists like Dr. DaVee plus motility specialists and advanced laparoscopic-trained surgeons as well as specialized nursing and technical staff.

Working together, the team is equipped to diagnose and treat GERD and related conditions in a single location.

Tests to diagnose the cause of GERD include routine blood work, X-rays or upper endoscopy—a safe, minimally invasive procedure that requires brief anesthesia and usually takes only 5-10 minutes. Once the source of the problem is located, it can

If you’re ready to trade in your acidblockers for wine or pizza (or other things you love), contact the Heartburn and Reflux Program at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital at 713.867.GERD (4373) or ghheartburn@memorialhermann.org.

Page 6B • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • The Leader

CITATION BY PUBLICATION

Should you have your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned? these things happening in your pet’s mouth, see your vet for help.

Some vets offer reduced rates in February Most veterinary clinics offer dental cleaning services (if they do not, they can refer you to someone who does). A basic cleaning for your pet’s teeth usually begins at about $200 and goes up from there, based on the condition of your pet’s teeth. During the month of February, many veterinary clinics offer discounted rates for dental cleanings, so check and see if that’s an option at your vet clinic.

The pet dental cleaning process requires anesthesia,

Dear Tabby, Our vet has suggested a professional dental cleaning for our dog. I didn’t even know that dogs need to have their teeth cleaned!

Are regular dental cleanings really necessary for our dog?

Confused about Doggie Dental Health in the Heights Dear Confused, As you probably know, humans should visit their dentist twice a year for a dental cleaning and exam, but did you know your pet should also visit the veterinarian for teeth cleaning once a year?

February is Pet Dental Health Month and keeping your pet’s teeth clean is an important part of ensuring that your pet stays healthy. Gum disease is the most common disease occurring in pets today. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause bad breath, bleeding, painful, irritated gums that affect eating and can even cause microscopic damage to the heart, liver and kidneys.

so plan on your pet spending most of the day at the vet clinic the day of the procedure as well as for observation following the cleaning.

So, what can you do to ensure the health of your pet’s chompers?

What can you do at home? “Ideally, you should brush your pet’s teeth daily, using a special toothpaste, formulated especially for pets,� said Johnathon Dodd, clinical professor at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

If daily tooth-brushing doesn’t quite fit into your busy schedule, luckily there are pet treats on the market that pro-

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mote good dental health and can be used in between brushings.

Visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s website (www.vohc.org) to see a comprehensive list of pet products that aid in dental care. Between regular tooth brushing, special, tooth-friendly treats, exams and cleanings from your veterinarian, maintaining the health of your pet’s mouth is a simple form of preventative care that can have a big impact on your pet’s general health and well-being.

Do you have a question for Tabby? Email her at deartabbyquestions@gmail.com.

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This 1-year-old handsome Chocolate Lab/Staffie mix is on deck to become the ultimate family dog! Hondo is great with other dogs, cats and is heartworm negative. He is house-trained, crate-trained and learning new commands at a rapid rate. Wouldn’t you love to curl up with this chocolate sweetie on Valentine’s Day? If so, contact the Animal Justice League at www.animaljusticeleague.org to learn more.

Watch out for bad breath, bleeding, broken teeth There are several symptoms of dental issues in your dog that you should look out for, such as bad breath, discoloration of the gums and teeth, bleeding, broken teeth and exposed roots. If you see any of

During the month of February, receive a special 10% savings on all dental cleanings and supplies

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A Reputation of Integrity since 1946

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All Chamilia Jewelry is 75% Off

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We Have Over 600 Charms To Choose From, And Several Bracelet And Necklace Styles!!

We Will Be Glad To Help You Design Your Special Valentine The Perfect Gift!!!

COSMETICS & BOUTIQUE

4216 B-Ella Blvd. @ W. 43rd • 713-686-5993

(713)-937-7274

713.695.50711

Valentine’s Day Special

Show your Car some at Our New Garage g Did you kknow th D thatt bby ddoing i regular maintenance you can extend the life of your car by 1000s of miles? Most models need special maintenance at 30K, 60K, 90K, 120K. Let us educate you!

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2217 W. 34th St. Suite E 77018 • 713-497-5498 valorbarbershop.com

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3410 Ella Blvd. at 34th St.

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713-868-5232

OPEN Monday - Saturday 8am - 10pm & Sunday 8 am - 4pm

(713) 682-4343

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2615 Ella Blvd. @ 27th

ESTABLISHED 1936

* Lunch Specials Daily * Take Out Orders Available * Complete Bar Facilities * Party Room Available (Seats 85)

Happy Hours: Mon-Thur 3-8

4618 Dacoma

(Between Hwy. 290 and Mangum)

(713) 680-0825

LIVE MUSIC Thursday - Sunday 6 til Close

The Leader • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • Page 7B

Fitness

with a

Join us for fun, fitness & strength at our neighborhood school.

Learn proven techniques taught by highly trained instructors.

Kick CHILDREN & ADULTS

(ages 4 and up) Men & Women

• Learn Self Defense • Gain Self Confidence • Discipline & Respect • Physical Fitness • Meet New Friends • Skills for Life

TAEKWONDO

Master Mark Giambi 9th Dan

St. Thomas

Waltrip Orvis Fowler (football) – Texas A&M-Commerce

Area candidate event to focus on public education From Staff Reports Candidates for the local seat in the Texas House of Representatives, which recently was filled by former Houston ISD trustee Anna Eastman, will focus on public education during an upcoming forum in the Heights.

The forums are part of a series of more than 40 nonpartisan “For the Future” candidate

forums and town halls across the state coordinated by the Raise Your Hand Texas Foundation in the weeks leading up to the March 3 primary election. Candidates for the race impacting the area, for Texas House District 148, will take place Monday evening.

The six District 148 candidates – five Democrats and one Republican – are expected to attend the event sched-

sion in a certified health center. The drug must be taken at the correct daily dose to keep their protection.

Anagnostou stresses that kids will still need their EpiPen, even if they are taking the drug.

“Emergency medication must always be available with the patient as allergic reactions can occur during oral immunotherapy,” she said. “The drug will not cure the peanut allergy, but will provide protection from accidental exposures.”

Tests to create similar drugs for eggs, milk and tree nuts are ongoing, according

713.290.1911

h o m e y o u r 1225 Rutland, $1+ Mil Amanda Anhorn, 713.256.5123

403 Aurora, $500s Alex Berry, 713.480.2213

uled for 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10 at A Second Cup, 1111 E. 11th St. in the Heights. The Democratic candidates are Eastman, who last month won a special election to replace fellow Democrat Jessica Farrar, along with Adrian Garcia, Cynthia Reyes-Revilla, Penny Morales Shaw and Emily Wolf.

The lone Republican candidate is Lui La Rotta, who lost to Eastman in a runoff.

Allergies from P. 1B over time with ongoing daily treatment.

“Most peanut-allergic patients are able to undertake oral immunotherapy treatment, but there are certain contraindications to the drug, so not everyone will be eligible,” Anagnostou said.

“This will need to be discussed with your allergist on an individual basis.”

The AP’s story noted that the side effects include occasional severe allergic reactions. The FDA will require doctors and their patients to enroll in a special safety program, and patients will take Palforzia under supervi-

Includes a free uniform

f i n d

St. Pius X Andrew McGuire (football) – Benedictine College Cameron McKeon (football) – Southern Nazarene University Jagger Pagano (football) – University of San Diego Rushil Desai (cross country) – Trinity University Thomas Meadough (football) – Oklahoma Baptist Tony Ziegler (football) – Wisconsin Lutheran College

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t o

Heights Carlos Marquez (baseball) – Galveston Junior College Christian Dixon (football) – Louisiana College Cristobal Gonzalez (football) – Southwest Assemblies of God Timothy Lavallais (football) – Albright College Tycorrian Bostick (football) – New Mexico Military JC Vincent Sanchez (baseball) – University of New Orleans Wilbert Angelle (football) – New Mexico Military JC

Chidera Umeh (football) – Lamar Cooper Thomas (football) – Columbia

p l a c e

Wednesday morning represented the continuation of a dream for several area high school athletes who committed to furthering their athletic careers at the college level.

Athletes from area schools joined thousands across the United States by signing letters of intent to compete for college programs.

In all, 16 players from local high schools announced their college decisions, led by Heights High School’s seven commitments. Among the most notable decisions was that of St. Thomas defensive end Chidera Umeh, who committed to Lamar University, while St. Pius X linebacker

Jagger Pagano will continue his playing career at the University of San Diego. Below is a rundown of commitments from around the area:

2 Weeks

a

Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com

(New Students Only)

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P R O P E R T I E S

Area athletes ink letters of intent

1355 Judiway | Houston, TX 77018

GREENWOOD KING

Photo from St. Thomas High School Twitter St. Thomas linebacker Cooper Thomas, left, makes a tackle. Thomas was one of 16 players from around the area who signed letters of intent with colleges on Wednesday morning.

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to the AP. Anagnostou said that once Palforzia becomes available in the market, Texas Children’s Hospital will offer it.

While the Salch family was disappointed that Kylie is still vulnerable, they are proud that her sacrifice and time – as well as that of other study participants across the country – is what gives companies the data to develop new drugs like Palforzia.

“Other drugs will come along, too, and hopefully the costs will go down so that many more people can be helped,” Megan Salch said.

721 Sue Barnett, $400s Jason Knebel, 713.232.9712

1104 W. 15 1/2 Juli Moore, 713.502.0775

Read the story about Mr. Freeman and many other veterans.

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713-686-8494

THE PUBLIC. The Leader • Saturday, February 8, 2020 • Page 8B

Area shooting suspect arrested From Staff Reports Authorities have arrested a man they say is responsible for an area shooting that left another man hospitalized early last Sunday morning.

The Houston Police Department said 21-year-old David Jose Molina-Lopez has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection to the incident, which happened about 1:15 a.m. Sunday.

Police say the victim, 48-year-old Jose Eulogio

Molina-Lopez

Diaz Orellana, was transported to an area hospital in stable condition.

According to HPD, Orellana was standing and drinking in the rear parking lot of the Innsbruck-Lemoyne Apartments complex at 4601 Sherwood Ln. when MolinaLopez allegedly approached him and opened fire, shooting Orellana multiple times in the abdomen.

Witnesses told police that Molina-Lopez fled the scene on foot, according to HPD. He was apprehended a short time later.

Police Reports • Jan. 27 - Feb.2 JAN. 27

Theft 4 PM 500 BLOCK W 31ST Assault 9 AM 4400 BLOCK OLD YALE Burglary 6 PM 300 BLOCK CROSSTIMBERS Other 11 AM 500 BLOCK W 23RD Assault 8 AM 1100 BLOCK LAWRENCE Assault 5 PM 4100 BLOCK OXFORD Theft 4 PM 4200 BLOCK E CROSSTIMBERS Robbery 3 PM 4300 BLOCK AIRLINE

JAN. 28

Theft 12 PM 700 BLOCK OF T C JESTER Theft 7 PM 1100 BLOCK YALE Theft 9 AM 2500 BLOCK AIRLINE Assault 9 AM 600 BLOCK HEIGHTS BLVD Assault 10 AM 600 BLOCK HEIGHTS BLVD Burglary 1 AM 500 BLOCK REDAN

JAN. 29

Other 8 PM 700 BLOCK N LOOP Theft 3 PM 3400 BLOCK YALE Burglary 1 AM 1000 BLOCK STUDEWOOD Theft 7 PM 1600 BLOCK W LOOP Theft 9 AM 200 BLOCK W 20TH Robbery 1 PM 100 BLOCK E 27TH Other 8 PM 600 BLOCK W 27TH Assault 8 AM 600 BLOCK W 28TH Assault 7 PM 900 BLOCK W 22ND Theft 2 PM 3700 BLOCK YALE Assault 9 AM 3700 BLOCK YALE Theft 7 PM 1100 BLOCK STUDE-

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JAN. 30

Theft 11 PM 400 BLOCK OXFORD Theft 12 AM 1400 BLOCK LAWRENCE Theft 11 AM 200 BLOCK W 19TH Theft 10 AM 5400 BLOCK W LOOP Theft 3 PM 5400 BLOCK W LOOP Assault 7 PM 00 BLOCK HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 9 AM 1600 BLOCK W LOOP Other 9 PM 600 BLOCK YALE Other 2 AM 500 BLOCK E 38TH

JAN. 31

Assault 3 PM 200 BLOCK W 20TH Assault 7 AM 500 BLOCK W 23RD Other 3 PM 200 BLOCK W LOOP Theft 7 PM 400 BLOCK N LOOP Arrest 9 PM 600 BLOCK E 29TH Theft 7 AM 2900 BLOCK SHEPHERD

Theft 12 PM 2200 BLOCK AIRLINE Shooting 12 AM 3800 BLOCK N SHEPHERD Vandalism 10 AM 1300 N LOOP Other 2 AM 700 BLOCK W 28TH

FEB. 1

Burglary 12 AM 300 BLOCK W 20TH Theft 3 AM 800 BLOCK W 18TH Assault 10 PM 800 BLOCK W 34TH Theft 3 AM 700 BLOCK LINK Arrest 8 PM 4300 BLOCK CORTLANDT Other 11 PM 4400 BLOCK YALE Theft 7 PM 400 BLOCK S HEIGHTS BLVD Theft 4 PM 5100 BLOCK N SHEPHERD Theft 12 AM 1000 BLOCK W 19TH

FEB. 2

Burglary 3 AM 500 BLOCK W 19TH Robbery 6 PM 5400 BLOCK W LOOP Theft 12 AM 1000 BLOCK BAYLAND AVE Arrest 11 PM 4400 BLOCK YALE Arrest 7 PM 800 BLOCK E CROSSTIMBERS Theft 1 PM 4500 BLOCK WERNER Vandalism 3 AM 700 BLOCK W 19TH Assault 12 AM 2800 BLOCK WHITE OAK Arrest 12 AM 2800 BLOCK WHITE OAK Reports are provided by SpotCrime.com based on data from the Houston Police Department.