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Saturday, May 25, 2019 • Vol. 64 • No. 21

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Batch plant application moves forward despite opposition

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com Several Acres Homes residents and their state representative remain opposed to a concrete batch plant operating in their community.

They might have to live next to one anyway.

According to a letter from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality mailed to Acres Homes residents May 15, the organization’s executive director has ruled that Soto Ready Mix’s batch plant application meets the requirements of applicable law.

However, the TCEQ also emphasized the decision does not yet autho-

rize construction or operation of any proposed facilities on the site at 3411 De Soto St. Before taking further action, the TCEQ must consider all contested case hearing requests or requests for reconsideration.

As of March, there were more than 50 hearing requests.

“This fight is not over,” said state representative Jarvis Johnson, who serves the area and has opposed the plant from the beginning. “There are many residents who have presented a strong argument for a contested case hearing. I will continue to work with stakeholders to stop this batch plant from operating in our community.”

Soto Ready Mix did not immediately

respond to a Tuesday email requesting comment.

On Monday, the TCEQ confirmed all parties that requested a contested case hearing at the October public hearing will be reviewed during an upcoming 30-day window.

“This decision will be considered by the commissioners at a regularly scheduled public meeting before any action is taken on this application unless all requests for contested case hearing or reconsideration have been withdrawn before that meeting,” the TCEQ letter said.

Any new contested case hearing reSee De Soto P. 8A

Call of duty

Photo by Landan Kuhlmann Opponents remain for a proposed concrete batch plant in Acres Homes, but Soto Ready Mix’s application is moving forward.

Harvard Elem. students find voices through making videos

Jason Knebel (713)232-9712

By Betsy Denson betsy@leadernews.com

PROPERTIES

Harvard Elementary technology teacher John Schaff recognizes that his students see the world differently than he does.

“They have their own words, their own ways of framing a narrative,” said Schaff, who has been with Houston ISD for 28 years and Harvard for 12. “I’m here to help them find their own voice.”

Schaff’s primary role is to teach media literacy to students in kindergarten through fifth grade, introducing them to internet safety, coding skills and digital storytelling such as animation. Older children learn how to use spreadsheets to graph their keyboarding progress as well as programs such as Word, PowerPoint, Photoshop Elements and Lightroom. The students also apply critical thinking by studying copyright laws, learning how to cite internet sources and discerning reputable websites from those that are not.

It is that combination of skills and social responsibility that students have leveraged to make several videos that have recently been recognized by HISD and the University of Houston. Schaff said Harvard Elementary has long participated in HISD’s Digital Literacy Moment campaign in which students submit a 60- to 90-second video showing how online behavior matters.

This year, Harvard won first, second and third place in the elementary school category.

“We were really proud of our work because it was really hard to do,” Harvard third-grader Jenna Hensley said.

Schaff found out about UH’s Digital Storytelling Contests (DISTCO) from the parents of a student who teach at the university. DISTCO invites K-12 students and teachers from around the U.S. and abroad to submit stories showcasing their skills in technology, multimedia, research, presentation, writing and creativity. Schaff thought it would be an ideal outlet for his students.

“The HISD contest concerned itself with digital citizenship and student safe-

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INSIDE. Photo by Adam Zuvanich Heights High School student Carlos Ramos, right, an Army recruit, receives a multi-tool from Jacob Millwee, president of the Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce, on Tuesday at Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel.

Next generation of soldiers ready to serve On your marks, get set ... The annual Heights Fun Run will be held June 1.

Page 6B

Work out the kinks. A recent visit to Lola revealed tasty food that could have been hotter.

Page 7A

Booted from the block. The former RJ’s Boot Shop has been demolished by Revive.

Page 1B

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

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com Not everyone who joins the military wants to put themselves in the line of fire.

As far as Sergio Soto is concerned, he is the fire.

The Heights High School senior, who is enlisting in the United States Marine Corps after graduating next week, said he’d rather be in combat than standing safely on the sidelines.

The proud son of a Marine considers infantry to be the “backbone” of the military branch and said being part of the “action has always appealed to me.”

“It’s scary,” Soto said. “There’s always that chance you could die or something. An injury could happen.

You could lose buddies.

“To me, being able to serve my country and protect my family and my loved ones outweighs those cons.”

Photo by Adam Zuvanich Heights High School senior Sergio Soto is enlisting in the Marine Corps.

A few days before Memorial Day, the national holiday that honors fallen American soldiers, the Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce recognized the next generation of servicemen and servicewomen from the area. Soto was one

of about 40 military-bound seniors – from Heights, Lutheran North, Scarborough, St. Pius X, Waltrip and Washington – who were highlighted during the chamber’s annual Education Luncheon on Tuesday at Sheraton Houston Brookhollow Hotel.

Each received engraved multitools and certificates of appreciation from Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Jack Cagle and American Legion Post 560 in Garden Oaks.

Two of the local students – Armybound Ahsan Abbas of Waltrip and Air Force recruit Jaxon Wolf of Lutheran North – were awarded $2,500 scholarships from Adams Insurance.

“All the schools, they concentrate on the academics and where they’re going, and we understand that,” said Cindy Reibenstein, the chamber’s education chair. “But the service to our country is very important. So we See Soldiers P. 8A

See Harvard P. 8A

Retiring Blue Marlins coach leaving lasting impressions

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com Donna Skorupinski may be retiring, but her spirit of teaching will continue to live on.

Skorupinski has served as the head coach for the Blue Marlins – a summer swim team out of the White Oak Conference Center serving area kids ages 4-18 – for the past 19 years. She will be stepping down from the volunteer position after this season, which kicked off last weekend.

“She’s leaving behind a legacy,” said Waltrip High School senior Andrew Malcolm, who serves as Skorupinski’s junior assistant coach.

Skorupinski has always harbored a passion for swimming. She made her way through college at the University of Houston teaching swim lessons. She also has coached at St. Thomas High School and the Duschene Academy for six years, serving as the head coach at each school for the past two years.

Skorupinski began helping to

coach the Blue Marlins after her son joined the club in 1998.

“It’s really like a family, and this is just such a huge group of wonderful people,” Skorupinski said.

“Swimming is a sport where your whole family can be there and can participate in one place at one time.

Everybody’s watching out for each other.”

For nearly two decades, she has imparted wisdom about swimming, hard work and leadership to her pupils and See Marlins P. 8A

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Contributed photo Donna Skorupinski, right, coaches up swimmers Julia Taylor (left) and Elle Sonnonstine during a Blue Marlins meet.

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THE PUBLIC. The Leader • Saturday, May 25, 2019 • Page 2A

Man charged in area garage burglaries From Staff Reports Police have charged a man in connection with a string of burglaries in local neighborhoods.

According to a Facebook post from the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office, Raul Carreon, 39, has been charged with robbery and burglary of a habitation with intent to commit a theft.

The constable’s office said a male suspect pulled into the driveway of a home in the 1000 block of Chamboard Lane May 9 before entering an attached garage, grabbing Ryobi tools valued at $2,500 and taking them back to his black pickup truck.

According to the post, the female resident caught the suspect in the act and attempted confronting him, after which time the post says the suspect dragged the resident

Raul Carreon

down the driveway when she attempted to grab the tool bag from him.

The post said deputies had received several other complaints from neighborhoods such as the Heights, Woodland Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and Shepherd Park involving a Hispanic male in a black pickup truck pulling up to residences, stealing items and then fleeing.

Then on May 10, the post said police noticed a man and vehicle matching Carreon’s description inside a local pawn shop attempting to pawn off stolen items via a third party.

The store owner then told police Carreon had been into the shop multiple times pawning items through other people.

If any area residents have experienced similar incidents within the last couple

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Father accused of killing infant daughter From Staff Reports Adrian Lizcano was arrested and charged with murder last week for his alleged role in the death of his 15-day-old daughter, according to the Houston Police Department.

HPD said officers were dispatched to Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospi-

tal early in the morning Jan. 30 regarding a deceased baby.

Hospital staff discovered the infant had several injuries, including bleeding to the brain and skull fractures described as non-accidental.

Lizcano, 21, was charged with murder in the 232nd State District Court.

Adrian Lizcano

Persons of interest sought in area shooting From Staff Reports Two persons of interest, described only as Hispanic males by the Houston Police Department, are wanted for questioning regarding an area shooting death last month.

HPD said Mauro Martinez Barron, 24, was found shot to death in a roadside ditch in the 3800 block of West 12th Street early in the morning April 26.

He had been shot multiple times and had his hands and

Men sought by Houston police.

feet bound by tape.

According to HPD, a preliminary investigation revealed that family members’ last con-

tact with Martinez Barron was April 23, and he was reported missing April 24. HPD said “further investigation developed information on two persons of interest” who remain unidentified.

Anyone with information about the case or the identities of the two persons of interest are encouraged to call HPD’s homicide division at 713-3083600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-8477.

of months, they are encouraged to contact Cpl. Joseph Bowden at Joseph.Bowden@ Cn1.Hctx.net with a detailed list of stolen items and dates to help in tracking them down.

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THE TOPICS. The Leader • Saturday, May 25, 2019 • Page 4A

Take time to reflect, revel and rest

T

here are times when I still feel like a teenager. Other times, I look back at my younger years and wonder where the time went and how it went by so fast.

Time is a funny thing, and it doesn’t stop to laugh no matter how silly it makes you feel.

To celebrate a personal milestone last week – the Earth has revolved around the sun 39 times since I was born – I took some time off and took a trip out of town. I spent my birthday night in Austin, where I had a heck of a time back when I really was a teenager and went off to college.

Much has changed over time in Texas’ capital city, but two of the places I visited were no different than they were the last time I saw them.

As always, Shady Grove near Barton Springs provided a great meal in a great setting – a spacious patio under big pecan trees. Then I spent some time listening to a blues band at the Continental Club on South Congress, where the eclectic crowd and relaxed atmosphere were the same as they ever were.

I stayed out as late as I did half my life ago and, much like time, the night caught up with me. I went to sleep before dark the following night, which reminded me that getting old really is a thing we all must face in due time.

Adam Zuvanich Editor

Attending two college graduation ceremonies over my extended weekend reinforced the fact that time is indeed fleeting. I thought about my own graduation 17 years ago and how it didn’t feel like that much time had passed, and I wondered how all the young folks in caps and gowns would feel 17 years later.

If I could have stepped to the podium and offered them some advice, I would have told them that time continues to fly as it goes by and they should cherish every moment moving forward. Because the most important time of our lives is the moment in front of us.

My seemingly short time at The Leader has taught me that, and I say seemingly because I’ve already been here six months. It doesn’t feel like it’s been nearly that long, maybe because I’ve been having such a good time

Photo by Adam Zuvanich A birthday visit to the Continental Club in Austin, one of editor Adam Zuvanich’s favorite live-music venues, helped him recharge last week.

trying to put out a timely paper every week.

It’s taken time to learn the area and an array of new topics, at least for me.

Before starting as editor in November, the times I had studied subjects such as infrastructure, real estate development, business and public policy were few and far between.

I’m thankful that many of you have

Lynn Ashby Columnist

her students should. She was fired as principal of Hempstead Middle School outside Houston after, the school administration charged, she told her students over the school’s intercom, half of whom are Hispanic, not to speak Spanish. Lacey denied banning Spanish, and said it is state policy to teach English and the official language of the state of Texas is English. Her intent, she claimed, was merely to encourage her students to use English more, a skill especially important in taking state tests. She sued to get her job back.

Then there is TV sage Tom Brokaw, who coined the term, “the Greatest Generation.” On “Meet the Press,” he was discussing immigration and fears Republicans have over Hispanics who would vote Democratic.

“Also, I hear, when I push people a little harder, ‘Well, I don’t know whether I want brown grandbabies.’ I mean, that’s also a part of it. It’s the intermarriage that is going on and the cultures that are conflicting with each other.”

Brokaw went on to say that “the Hispanics should work harder at assimilation,” and “make sure that all their kids are learning to speak English, and that they feel comfortable in the communities. And that’s going to take outreach on both sides, frankly.” Well, ol’ Tom caught unmitigated hell. “Brown grandbabies” didn’t go over very well with some viewers. He apologized all over the place. On TV, he said he felt “terrible a part of my comments on Hispanics offended some members of that proud culture.” He twitted (no capitalization): ““i am sorry, truly sorry, my comments were offensive to many. the great enduring american tradition of diversity is to be celebrated and cherished.”

He may not have worried so much. A Pew Research Center study from 2013 found about 62 percent of Hispanic adults in the U.S. either speak English or are bilingual. Their kids do better. A Pew study also found that “fully 89 percent of U.S.born Latinos spoke English proficiently in 2013, up from 72 percent in 1980.” The research shows that as immigrants settle in the U.S. they and their kids embrace English. The others are doomed to spend the rest of their lives washing our cars and mowing our lawns. Unless you play for the Astros, you can’t get very far in Houston unable to speak English.

Houston is a good example of this melting pot, which is

Email azuvanich@theleadernews.com

THE READER.

Lost in translation THE KITCHEN COUNTER – Here are all the different things I ordered from the drive-thru chicken place.

Three wings, one breast, slaw and biscuits. Wait. No biscuits. I’ve got to learn to count my change and my purchases before leaving any establishment. It happens to me time and again, and I’ll bet it has happened to you, too. You place an order at a drive-thru or any take-out at a restaurant and, when you get home, what you ordered and paid for is not what you got. The reason, as Strother Martin said to Paul Newman in “Cool Hand Luke,” “What we’ve got here is failure to communicate.” I know what I ordered, but the fellow who took my order didn’t speak much English. My excellent dry cleaner lady is Vietnamese. She knows the laundry business and would probably do quite well in Hanoi, but in Texas she fails to communicate, and so I have to repeat and repeat my instructions.

(I’ve found that it helps if you shout.) A waitress seems to be just out of the detention center in Brownsville, and gets my order wrong. It’s not just the locals who have a communications problem.

Have you ever called up your cable company and talked to someone you can’t talk to?

He’s probably making a dollar an hour in Bangladesh.

The computer company saves a lot of money that way, but the customer gets frustrated.

“My computer is down and can’t get up,” I say.

“Yu scooter not something something?”

This is not to ridicule immigrants or those in other lands whose job, probably at lower than minimum wage, is to communicate with us, it’s that employers choose to save a buck by hiring people who are not yet capable of handling a major part of that job: dealing with customers. And the boss won’t train them. So I blame the employers, not the employees, who, God bless ‘em, are in over their heads. On the other hand, our immigrants need to make some effort on their part to assimilate. The other night I was watching the local news on TV – the usual car wrecks, apartment fires and shootings -- and the reporter was interviewing a woman who couldn’t speak English and needed a Spanish-language translator. “How long have you been in America?” the reporter asked. Through the translator the woman replied, “Thirty years.” Now if you lived in, say, Mexico City, for 30 years, wouldn’t you pick up a little of the local lingo? Actually, in Texas you can get by very well just speaking Spanish as you are surrounded by Spanish-language TV, radio, even political speeches. Home Depot, Walmart and other stores have all their signs in English and Spanish.

So who needs to know English? Amy Lacey thought

taken the time to explain those issues and taken the time to read the stories produced by our small staff and me.

We put a lot of time and effort into them, so much so that we occasionally come close to running out of time.

Time management is a constant battle that I get a little bit better at fighting over time. It’s important to set aside time for getaways like the one I

took last week.

Without them, and the energy they restore along with the tensions they release, we run the risk of becoming ticking time bombs.

None of us wants that, and neither do the people in our lives. They deserve our time more than anything else, because the times we spend with the ones we love are the best times of all.

Let’s keep that in mind as we approach the summertime, which is about the only time when time tends to stand still. Families have more time to cherish each other once school lets out, and those who have finished school have time to reflect and plan for the future.

The future gets here fast, but that’s OK. With time comes opportunity as well as wisdom.

We learn there are times to work and times to play. We also come to know that sometimes it’s best to do both at the same time.

And when we overextend ourselves and try to relive that one time in college, when we were actually as young as we feel, we should spend a little more time sleeping even if it makes us feel old.

Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com

If you don’t want change, start supporting local

actually more of a cafeteria line: we get a look at everything offered and choose what we like. There is quite a choice: 145 different languages are spoken in the city, about 100 in the Houston ISD alone. We have 79 foreign consulates, honorary counsels and foreign representatives. Almost a quarter of Harris County is foreign born.

No wonder Houston is called “the most diversified city in America.” You want proof ?

There are 10,000 restaurants in the Houston area representing cuisine from more than 70 countries. Tripadviser reviewed 9,242 of them (I guess they got full). This included 236 Italian restaurants, 320 Chinese, 82 Indian and so on. They checked out 785 Tex-Mex eateries. When they are called Mex-Tex restaurants, we’ll know who assimilated whom. Meanwhile, check your take-outs.

Ashby is monolingual at ashby2@comcast.net

Dear Editor: I’m a small business owner in the Heights, at the corner of Yale and 18th. I have a vintage clothing store called The Fashion Time Machine. We have vintage clothing and costumes from all eras from over 20 local vintage collectors. I love being part of the Heights community. Hope you all can stop by and see me, and support local! 1802 Yale, Houston TX 77008.

Mary Keene Dear Editor: Seems like it’s the “put your money where you mouth is” saying and see if it helps!

Time will tell.

For someone who grew up in Garden Oaks and spent a lot of time with family in the Heights, I have to say both areas are losing some of their historical charm but some new structures replaced many structures that were in disrepair and that’s what revitalization is all about. It’s inevitable!!

Jeanette Black Dear Editor: I have lived in the Timbergrove area for over 10 years. Not much has changed, thankfully. It’s still a quiet area for the most part. I hate that the cottages are being torn down and mini-mansions are taking their place. However, we all have to live with change and progress. Flooding has become a problem in some areas because our green spaces are gone in favor of townhomes. Some folks are having to build raised homes since their homes were flooded during Harvey. Instead of more bike paths, we need work done on White Oak Bayou to prevent flooding in the future.

A lot of restaurants have popped up over the

last few years, some good and some that did not survive. Maybe their food was good, but trying to find a parking space prevented a lot of us from patronizing those places. That’s a big problem along Shepherd and Durham as well as the side streets in the area. But more restaurants keep opening and others are closing. My neighbors blame it on the millennials. They say they never cook at home.

I see Grub Hub and some other delivery services quite a bit now, so they might be right.

All this being said, I would not want to live anyplace else in Houston. Our sleepy communities are changing and us older people need to just deal with it. Go with the flow and who knows ... they might get lucky and have a bunch of millennials as neighbors! Mine are terrific! I love having young people around. Keeps me feeling young!

Old Dog, New Tricks

Some Heights residents picky about road diet

Dear Editor: This will only increase the problem, insuring more grid-lock in the neighborhood. It is not the bike traffic that is the problem. It is not bikes going east and west. The bike issue is crossing 11th going north and south.

The traffic issue is the multiple large apartment complexes and developments bringing thousands more cars living and visiting the Heights.

Route east and west bike traffic through the neighborhood. Add a light at Nicholson and 11th for bikes to be protected crossing 11th.

The objective is to keep traffic moving efficiently and safely. Making 11th one lane will slow traffic to a snail’s pace, increasing driving irritability, which equates to reckless driving.

M.

the leader Puzzlers.

Answers found in this week’s Classified section

SUDOKU

aCrOss

1. Listen again 7. Expressed sentiments 13. Membrane 14. Pelvic areas 16. Blood type 17. Vacated 19. Fullback 20. Nissan’s tiny car 22. Be able to 23. Outcast 25. Day laborer 26. Greek prophetess 28. Soluble ribonucleic acid 29. Sirius Satellite Radio 30. Actor Josh 31. A way to clean 33. Left 34. Compensated 36. Member of U.S. Navy 38. Reject 40. Group of notes sounded together 41. Christian holiday 43. European river 44. Female hip hop group 45. Score 47. Moved fast 48. Chronicles (abbr.

Biblical)

51. Type of tie 53. Indicates silence 55. Asian people 56. Pearl Jam bassist Jeff 58. Western U.S. time zone 59. ‘Signs’ rockers 60. Confidential informant 61. Lawyer 64. Overdose 65. Football equipment 67. Governments 69. Branch of physics 70. Makes happy

dOwn

1. Animal disease 2. Typographical space 3. Sportscaster Chick 4. Italian Island 5. Cooked in a specific style 6. Smelling or tasting unpleasant 7. Name 8. Adult male humans 9. Pitcher Hershiser 10. Pat Conroy novel ‘The Prince of __’ 11. __ route 12. Protects the goal 13. Furnishings

15. Scraped 18. Apply with quick strokes 21. Blood cell 24. Nose 26. Doleful 27. __ Angeles 30. Fruit tree 32. Smooth brown oval nut 35. Works produced by skill and imagination 37. Satisfaction 38. Reversal 39. Tan-colored horse 42. Tell on 43. Pitcher Latos 46. Fast-flowing part of river 47. Hang ‘em up 49. Rings 50. Lead from one place to another 52. Beginning 54. Reciprocal of a sine 55. Worth 57. Indian hat 59. Cloak 62. Resinous secretion of insects 63. __ Aviv, Israel 66. European Parliament 68. Of I

WORD SCRAMBLE

The Leader • Saturday, May 25, 2019 • Page 5A

THINGS TO DO. The Arts Jackopierce Friday, May 24 7 p.m.

The Heights Theater – 339 W. 19th St. Jackopierce is performing at The Heights Theater.

Matthew Logan Vasquez Saturday, May 24 7 p.m.

The Heights Theater – 339 W. 19th St. Matthew Logan Vasquez is performing at The Heights Theater.

Tunes in the Tap Room Tuesday, May 28 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

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

Kings Kaleidoscope Friday, May 24 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Kings Kaleidoscope is performing at White Oak Music Hall.

Turnpike Troubadours Friday, May 24 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Turnpike Troubadours is performing at White Oak Music Hall.

Matt Braunger Saturday, May 25 9 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Matt Braunger is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Alex Price.

Kevin Garrett Sunday , May 26 8 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Kevin Garrett is performing at White Oak Music Hall with MINKE. Mono Tuesday, May 28 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Mono is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Emma Ruth Rundle.

JOHNNYSWIM Wednesday, May 29 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. JOHNNYSWIM is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Boega.

Inner Wave Thursday, May 30 9 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Inner Wave is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Claud.

Take This Fest and Shove It Saturday, May 25 4:30 p.m.

Dan Electros – 1031 E. 24th St. The Dan Electros Take This Fest and Shove It will feature The Failz, Mutant Love, Bum Out, Pozion, Bolos, Nosferat2, Manitees, Gaslighter, AK-47, Janitor, and Daikaiju.

The Markets Eleanora’s Market Saturday, May 25

YMCA –1234 W. 34th St. The Women’s Bible Study meets every Monday at the Harriet and Joe Foster YMCA. The study is called The Faithful, which explores crucial moments in the lives of five Old Testament figures--Queen Esther, Gideon, Hosea, Malachi, and Nehemiah. Guests and new members are welcome to attend this non-denominational Bible study. Email scripturesharing@ earthlink.net for information.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cavatore – 2120 Ella Blvd.

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

Little White Oak Night Market Saturday, May 25 4 – 8 p.m.

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

Men’s Scripture Sharing Group Thursday, May 30 7 a.m.

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

The Farm Stand at Petrol Station Saturday, May 25 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

948 Wakefield Dr. The Farm Stand at Petrol Station features goods from local vendors.

Heights Morning Market Sunday, May 26 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

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

Memorial weekend market Sunday, May 26 Noon – 6 p.m.

Height Bier Garten – 1433 N. Shepherd Join the Heights Bier Garten for its very first market, brought to you by 11 Below Brewing.

The Pews Women’s Bible Study Group Monday, May 27 5:30 p.m.

Angela Jimenez, 91, born May 31, died on May 16. he was born May 31, 1927 in Houston, TX to parents, Dolores & Hilario Quiroz. Angela is survived by her children, Maria Bannatyne and James Ruben Jimenez; grandchildren, Manuel R. Bannatyne (Misty), David R. Bannatyne, Shawn Paul Jimenez, Ruben Jimenez, and Chrissy Marie Jimenez; great-grandchildren, Macy J. Banntyne, Molly A. Bannatyne, Bethany Bannatyne, Elias Bannatyne, Eason Cost-Jimenez, Micah SpohnJimenez, Elijah Jimenez, Adrian Jimenez, Emily Martinez, Zaria Martinez, and Nevin Martinez.

Enjoy a tour and learn the history of the holiday. Please RSVP 609-501-3341.

Lazybrook Baptist Church Events June 2 – Aug. 25 6:30 p.m.

Lazybrook Baptist Church 1822 W. 18th St. Lazybrook Baptist Church is sponsoring the Young Adult Summer Book Club Fellowship, “Welcome to Adulting- Navigating Faith, Friendship, Finances, and the Future� by Jonathan “JP� Pokluda, which will be at the home of Sean and Vonda Bonte. They will start with a meal and then have discussion from the book. Vacation Bible School at Lazybrook Baptist Church will be July 8 – 12, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. for kids who have completed Kindergarten 5th grades. Theme: In the Wild, Amazing Encounters With Jesus. VBS is free. Call 713-864-1470 to register or for information about the events.

Thursday Night Bingo Thursday, May 30 7 p.m.

SPJST Lodge 88 - 1435 Beall St. Bingo at SPJST Lodge 88 is held every Thursday night.

Bingo pads are $5 each. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. Early bird special starts at 7 p.m. with regular bingo games beginning at 7:30 p.m.

First Church Heights Events Tuesday, May 28 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

First Church Heights – 201 E. 9th St. First Church Heights’s senior event is on May 28, and will be covering the topic of Assistive Technology Unlimited. On June 9 the church will have its Family and Friends Day at 10:30 a.m.

Fun & Games

Classic Car Show Saturday, May 25 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Our Savior Lutheran Church – 5000 W. Tidwell This family-friendly event showcases classic cars, food vendors and live music by the Grateful Geezers and Pat Gavin and the Buckaroo Band.

Registration Fee is $20.00 in

American Legion Coffee & Donuts Friday, June 7 10 a.m. - Noon American Legion Post 560 – 3720 Alba Veterans and the Community are invited for Coffee & Donuts with Commander Tony on National Donut Day at Garden Oaks American Legion Post 560.

THE OBITUARIES. Allen G. Wagner, 85, born July 4, died on May 14 in Houston, Texas. Allen was born July 4, 1933 in Cramer, PA to Allen Grant Wagner and Martha Wagner. Allen worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Co for over 30 years as a technician. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Allen had a passion for working with wood and building furniture. Allen also loved reading the bible, and he attended St. Matthews UMC in Houston, Texas. Allen is survived by his wife of 65 years, Wynona, Son Mark, and son John (wife Wilma).Â

advance or $25.00 on the day of the event. Pre-registered entrants receive a free artistdesigned T-Shirt. Event is rain or shine, no rain out date. Event is nonrefundable. Fees will be considered a donation. Contact Information: Dan Greenwood 713-302-5692 - Our Savior Lutheran Church 713-290-9087, www.osl.cc.

Experience and Knowledge...

A Powerful Combination

Dorothy Jean Lofton, 90, born July 1, died on May 2. She is survived by her daughters Pat McAllister and husband Donnie, Ruth Pierce and husband Dennis; grandchildren Michael McAllister and wife Kristi, Sarah Hopkins and husband Kris, Shannah Billerbeck and husband Aaron, Kevin Pierce, Keith Pierce; and four great-grandchildren.

Dorothy is also survived by her beloved (formerly stray) cat, Mooch, who has become a cherished member of Ruth’s family.Â

713-906-5481 Realty Associates

Open Mic Night Tuesday, May 28 9 p.m.

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

Theater Lab June – July 1 – 4 p.m.

1613 West 43rd Kids in grades 1st – 6th have the opportunity to participate in Theater Lab summer camp.

Prices from $200-225. see website for details www.theaterlabkids.com/summer-camp or email Theaterlab1.5@gmail.com.

Monthly wine tasting Wednesday, June 12 5:30 p.m.

Rainbow Lodge - 2011 Ella Join us the second Wednesday of each month for themed wine tasting events that feature four wine tastes and four menu bites for only $35 with advance booking. These popular tastings are casual, walk around “sip and stroll� styled tastings. This month taste some of the best wines that Northern Italy has to offer.

AIKIDO & AIKIJUTSU TRADITIONAL WEAPONS

Academy for Elite Samurai Arts Classes Enrolling Now Age 14 & Up

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New Well Puppy & Kitten Exam

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Centers participating in this program are as follows:

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The Toddler House, Inc. #4. 2215 West 34th Street, Houston, Tx 77018 The Toddler House, Inc #5 150 East West Road, Houston, Tx 77060 The Toddler House, Inc #6 6606 West 34th Street, Houston, Tx 77092 If you have any questions, or should you need further information regarding our participation in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program please call 713-680-0101.

49

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THE TODDLER HOUSE, INC. announces sponsorship of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Child and Adult Care Food Program. Each facility and The Toddler House, Inc. corporate office has a copy of the policy, which anyone may review. Household income determines the amount of money the Texas Dept. of Agriculture will reimburse us for providing meals to enrolled students.

Meals will be made available to enrolled students at no separate charge without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, political belief, or disability.

5315 Antoine@ Pinemont 713-688-9625 Hours: M-F 7am-6:00pm Sat. 8am-12 Noon

CHURCH DIRECTORY

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Sunday Bible Studies For All Ages ... 9:30am t 8PSTIJQ &OHMJTI

BN BN t -FBSOJOH )PVS

BN QN Morning Worship ............... 10:45am MANNA t 8PSTIJQ 4QBOJTI

QN QN 4QPOTPS Wednesday Bible Studies For Youth, Children and Adults............................ 6:15pm 8FTU SE 4U t )PVTUPO 5Y t

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Weekly Sunday Services

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GET OR ON POINT POINTLESS OVER IT!

t goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyway: “we have all made mistakes.� As Alexander Pope so aptly put it: “To err is human, toBy forgive, divine.�

We should remember Pastor Will Cover Arise Baptist ChurchMost certainly, we this the next time we make a mistake.

803our Curtin St. Houston TX 77018 must learn from mistakes, and hopefully not continue 713-659-9697 www.arisebaptistchurch.org to repeat them, but we •should also forgive ourselves. While it can be hard enough to forgive others for their mistakes, it can sometimes feel almost impossible to forgive ourselves.

We sometimes cannot bring ourselves to forgive something pencil without a point does not write very we’ve done, and we may punish and harangue ourselves well. A life lived without a point does not for years, or even decades, over youthful indiscretions. In accomplish much. A person’s impact is often addition, some of us may not be able to forget the sins of best measured by how they are remembered. In our past. And although that may prevent us from repeating Philippians 1:2-8 Paul the Apostle writes to the them, weinmust be charitable and his forgive ourselves, as church Philippi and shares memories ofjust them. we should others.

So, we should real effortfor in They wayforgive they had cared for Paulmake and aprovided the coming days and weeks to forgive the offenses of others his needs made a big impact on Paul. He wrote that as well as our own. them Sometimes, helps to just forget about he remembered with itthankfulness, with joy, them; that is, to try to put them out of our mind and stop with confidence, and with love. He was thankful repeatedly mulling them. of the we use for how they hadover cared forOne him, he reasons was joyful for the phrase “forgive and forget� because sometimeshe that is their partnership with himis in his ministry, had the only way to forgive,of i.e.,God’s by forgetting.

But far better, and confidence because continued faithfulness to work in istheir heeven loved them because more divine, to be lives, able to and forgive while remembering they had stayed himletthrough the good times the offense.

So, wewith should go of those unforgiving, and the bad.

If a life is lived with vindictive, shameful feelings about the the past,right and purpose get over then it will be remembered the same way Paul it! Corrie ten Boom, who survivedinincarceration in a Nazi remembered the Philippian Christians. will prison camp said, “Forgiveness is to set a prisonerHow free, and you be remembered? you making a difference to realize that the prisonerAre was you.� for good by serving God with your life? They way younot, live your determine how Judge and youlife willtoday not bewill judged; condemn you areand remembered tomorrow.

Please forgive, join us at not, you will not be condemned; Arise Baptistand Church as we continue our series in you will be forgiven...

Philippians and learn what God’s Word says is our purpose and how R.S.V. to live Luke life “On Point.�

6:37

A

Page 6A • Saturday, May 25, 2019 • The Leader

Passing of ‘Grumpy Cat’ raises feline UTI awareness arose due to a urinary tract infection. Grumpy Cat’s over 2.4 million Instagram followers responded in droves to the news of the famous cat’s death, leaving messages of condolences and memories of how the cat’s witty Internet memes had made their days brighter.

While UTIs can be fairly common in cats, they are typically easy to treat and diagnose and few end in the untimely death of a beloved kitty. Here are some symptoms to watch for to prevent your own cat from experiencing a painful infection of the urinary tract: Peeing outside of the litter box. Since cats tend to be pretty fastidious about using their litter boxes, when you notice your kitty suddenly peeing in other places, a trip to the vet is always in order.

Frequent Trips to the litter box. If you see your cat mak-

Dear Tabby, I was sad to hear of the recent passing of “Grumpy Cat,” and read that she died of complications from a urinary tract infection. Are UTIs common in cats and how would I know if my cat had one?

Grumpy Cat Fan in Garden Oaks Dear Grumpy Cat Fan, Indeed, it was a sad day to learn of the passing of one of the Internet’s most famous felines. “Grumpy Cat,” on May 14. Grumpy Cat, whose real name was Tardar Sauce, died at the young age of seven from problems that

ing many trips to the litter box--and if you witness little to no urine coming out--this could indicate either a blockage or a UTI. Painful urination. If you hear your cat cry or howl when urinating, this could indicate pain while urinating, which is another symptom of a UTI. Excessive licking of the genitals. You might also notice your cat licking his or her genitals more often than normal. This might also indicate a UTI, as they are likely experiencing pain in that area.

Thankfully, UTIs are usually treatable with the help of a vet--but a trip to the vet is definitely in order. Do not try to ignore your cat’s UTI because it can get worse...and fast, ultimately requiring expensive emergency vet care or death.

While the world will certainly miss Grumpy Cat, and the mark she left on the

Internet, we can rest easy in the idea that she likely turned many people into “cat people,” due to her cute face

and sense of humor. Rest in Peace, Grumpy Cat. Run free at the Rainbow Bridge.

Do you have a question for Dear Tabby? Email her at dear tabbyquestions@gmail.com

Pet of the Week Meet Fuzzy Fuzzy is almost three months old and full of that adorable kitten energy that we love so much. Since Fuzzy has so much spunk, she’d really love to go to a home with another kitten to play with, or an active (and tolerant) older pet. Also, it’s kitten season, so there are scores of other cuties, like Fuzzy, who need fosters in our shelters. Please go to www.cap4pets.org to learn more about how you can help.

10% OFF YOUR SPECIAL EVENT

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*Promotional. EXPIRES 11/1/2019. Present this coupon at Front Desk to redeem. Limit one coupon per customer per Power Card®. Coupon value may not be divided into multiple Power Cards. Barcode valid for one use only. Minor policies vary by location - please check daveandbusters.com/ locations for details. Not valid with any other offers including Eat & Play Combos, Half Price Games Wednesdays or any Half Price Game promotion.

Not valid with Special Events Packages or on Virtual Reality/Attraction games. Coupon must be surrendered at time of redemption and may not be photocopied or duplicated. Non-negotiable. Power Card activation fee will apply. NOT FOR RESALE.

PROMOTIONAL OFFER EXPIRES 11/1/2019. This offer must be referenced at the time of booking through our Special Events Department. Offer valid ONLY with events held between (01/01/2019) - (6/27/19) on any Monday Thursday only. 10% discount requires a buffet and $1,000 minimum spend prior to tax, gratuity and outside vendors. 10% discount applied on food, non-alcoholic beverages, Virtual Reality games, outside vendor rentals, tax and gratuity. Promotion excludes the following buffet packages: Ultimate Happy Hour Buffet, Playoff Buffet & Field Trip Buffet. Not valid with any other offer. Promotion only applies to new events and cannot be credited towards events that have already been reserved. Revenue minimums apply for all contracted events and vary by location. Other restrictions may apply. Subject to availability. Valid at participating locations only and prices may vary by location. Minor policies vary by location. See store for details.

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To place an ad on the most popular page in the Leader, give us a call at (713) 686-8494 and ask for one of our professional sales executives

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Includes up to 5 quarts of synthetic blend oil and standard filter. Specialty filter may be extra.

Tire check, rotation upon request . Brake check . Battery health report .

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I’M IN PAIN...CAN CHIROPRACTIC HELP ME? CONDITIONS THAT ARE DANGER SIGNALS • Headache • Arthritis • Loss of Sleep • Scoliosis • Leg & Arm Pain & Numbness • Backache • Tension •Whiplash

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The Leader • Saturday, May 25, 2019 • Page 7A

Art Valet: Jump for joy for Jack Rabbit Gallery Mitch Cohen Art Columnist

The Heights is known for being art-friendly, yet fine art galleries are a surprising rarity despite the often-overused moniker by marketers to the contrary. So when word of a new gallery started making the artist circles, I was listening and anxiously awaiting the big announcement.

Good things come to those that wait!

Welcome, Jack Rabbit Gallery to the Heights on Friday, May 31. The grand opening will be hosted by gallery founders James and Jodi Grogan of Houston. The event is scheduled from 6-9 p.m. in the newly restored 2,000 square foot warehouse at 228 E. 27th St. The opening exhibition was curated by Hali Grogan, Jack Rabbit Gallery’s managing director, who studied at Art Stu-

dents League of NY. And yes, Hali is the daughter of James and Jodi (this is a family business!) “We saw a need for a different kind of art gallery, a gallery that appeals to buyers with diverse tastes and budgets,� Hali Grogan said. “With more than 2,000 square feet of indoor gallery space, an outdoor garden and natural light throughout the gallery, we have a unique space to showcase the finest artwork.�

The opening exhibit will feature approximately 100 works by more than 15 artists, including Mark Whitmarsh, whose physical use of color and texture is as much an art form as the subject matter depicted; Spoon, whose minimalist figures have the feel of a dot matrix; Jerry Bergin of Oklahoma, who brings his urban western art; and Lisa Cunningham, whose painterly pastels depict ordinary people enjoying life.

The exhibit also includes works by leading Houston artists, including Leslie Gaworecki, known for her whimsical use of color; Chris Turn-

Jodi Grogan celebrates the opening of Jack Rabbit Gallery.

Sunday Quiver by Nikkie Markle.

Nikkie Markle’s cows will be on display at Jack Rabbit Gallery.

er, whose abstract paintings reflect his view of the natural world; Jeanne Jones, whose flower and nature paintings

challenge painterly norms with their flatness; Nikkie Markle, who uses bold colors to depict animals, landscapes

and figures; and David Bates, who uses photography to capture the innate humor of cattle.

Three artists I know will also be featured at the opening night exhibit. The first two have been featured in this column: Steve Ulrich, who handcrafts metal and wood furnishings, and illustrator Jill Hakala, who calls her work a combination of science and the abstract. Markle burst onto the art scene just over a

year ago, and I’m happy she’s part of the Jack Rabbit Gallery artists. She has an amazing eye for color. “My work combines the freedom of abstract art and the use of bold colors and brushstrokes to imbue each painting with beauty, energy, and motion,� Markle said in her artist statement.

The Jack Rabbit Gallery opening coincides with the launch of www.jackrabbitgallery.com, the gallery’s ecommerce website that offers online pricing and purchasing features to make art collecting transparent, user-friendly and less intimidating. The gallery also makes framing, art advisory and event rental services available to clients.

After the May 31 grand opening, Jack Rabbit Gallery will be open Tuesday-Sunday.

For more details, visit jackrabbitgallery.com.

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

Find him at ArtValet.com.

Review: It’s a little lukewarm at Lola

By Zarah Parker zarah@theleadernews.com In the heart of the Heights, on the corner of Yale Street and 11th Street, sits the neighborhood diner Lola.

Both the outside and inside capture a modern vibe with a classic flair.

Outside, the big glass windows along the restaurant and metal awning remind me of old-time diners, but the Lola sign is big and bold, with an “o� that’s an orange with a bite taken out of it.

Inside you order at a walkup counter and choose your own seating at either a booth along the wall or one of the many tables throughout the center of the space. Above the bar seating was a colorful illustration of what I’d call an alien invasion and on the ceiling a message was written in black paint. As much as I twisted and turned my head I wasn’t able to read the whole thing,

Photo by Zarah Parker A message written on Lola’s ceiling engages customers.

Photo by Zarah Parker Lola’s Challah French Toast is a favorite at the Heights diner.

but I assume it’s something that’s inspirational.

While the menu featured classics like chicken fried steak and a BLT, I chose a breakfast option. Since breakfast is offered all day, I figured it must be good.

I asked the cashier which breakfast item she recommended, and she suggested either the Chicken and Fruit Waffles or the Challah French

Toast. I chose the latter.

The description of the French toast was, “A Lola Favorite! Egg and cream custard soaked, topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries and red grapes, with your choice of Applewood smoked maple bacon or natural cased sausage.�

I went with the side of bacon.

I grabbed an iced tea and

sat at a booth and waited for my food to come out. Soon the French toast was set before me. The six triangle slices were sprinkled with powdered sugar. On top there were three pieces of each fruit and on the side sat two slices of bacon.

It looked good, but I imagined there would be more fruit topped on.

The bacon was perfectly cooked. It had a light smoky flavor and was all-around tasty, but was room temperature.

I cut the French toast into

When does good service become bad?

Zarah Parker Managing Editor

Recently I was dining at a restaurant, enjoying the food and the atmosphere, when I realized that every time my companions and I got into a conversation, our server would appear next to the table and inquire if we needed anything.

Overall I was having a good time with friends, and my drink was never low, but I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed about the amount of times our server asked us what we needed. I don’t exaggerate by saying it happened every five minutes before, during and after we had our food.

Afterward, it seemed like I didn’t have a right to complain about a server who was really attentive. They were nice and the food was good, so what harm did it really do? Except, one of the reasons I enjoy eating out is getting to spend time and have conversations with friends. And because of the server’s attentiveness, we constantly had to ask, “Wait, what were we talking about?�

This made me wonder if service can be so good it becomes bad.

I put the question out on a local food-centered Facebook page and found that a lot of people had strong opinions about the kind of service they expect.

Everyone has pet peeves when it comes to service.

Some people hate having to ask for a refill, some blame the server if the food doesn’t come out quick enough, and some want the server to be

a ninja — actions done but never seen.

One commenter mentioned that they combat the refill problem by just asking for a pitcher of their drink as soon as they sit down and tip the server extra for providing it.

In general, bad service is easy to spot.

It’s when you ask for another minute to look over the menu and they don’t come back for 20. In some restaurants you can see when plates are set out for servers to take, and sometimes you stare at a plate with a feeling that that is your plate. Ten minutes later the server picks it up and brings it to you. Bad service is asking for a refill on your drink and never getting it, or having to ask other servers to find yours because you haven’t seen them in a while.

Good service is pretty much the exact opposite of that.

But what about over-attentiveness? “Being smothered by service is as bad as being ignored by it,� Judi Hurwitt wrote. “I’m gregarious. I will reach out and engage the servers when I want to. The rest of the time I want to spend uninterrupted time with my dinner companions.�

Mary Lamb also chimed in and said she doesn’t rush at restaurants. She just wants her bill to be brought when the server is ready to turn the table, which makes hovering servers more annoying to her than ones that can’t be found. “Excellent service is equal parts attention and discretion,� Al Lu wrote. “In the best restaurants you feel engaged with the server when asking

questions, ordering or having a quick side bar. Other times you don’t notice them, but they are working hard behind the scenes. Somehow your drink stays full, your food arrives exactly when you’re ready, dishes are cleared. ...

Excellent servers anticipate what you need and want to give you the best dining experience possible.�

Having good service at a restaurant also is dependent on the person being served.

The ones getting served should have a good attitude as well. At times the restaurant is busy or understaffed, and it’s not necessarily the server’s fault if the food takes longer than usual to come out of the kitchen.

And sometimes it comes down to the server recognizing certain signs. When the menu is closed in front of a customer, they’re probably ready to order. Or if the person places their utensils on top of their plate, they’re ready for the plate to be taken. “I once had a waitress take my plate from me as I was placing a bite of food in my mouth,� Julie Wood wrote.

Most restaurant-goers look for the happy medium of not being constantly interrupted, but having the server available when needed.

But one commenter asked what I think is the most important question. “Sometimes, I wonder, can the general public be pleased/ satisfied?� Robert Shipman wrote.

The answer? Probably not, since everyone has different expectations and preferences.

Then again, I think that’s OK since we’re paying for it.

smaller pieces and poured out some syrup on the side. I tasted the toast alone first to experience the flavor without any additions. I could tell the flavor was different than regular French toast, and it’s the custard cream that made it so.

The custard cream gave it a hint of custard that made the toast a good flavor.

With the syrup and fruit it also tasted good, and of course the additions also made it sweeter, which was fine by me.

But I wished the slices of toast to be fluffier. The bread that was used for the French toast was on the thin side. I also don’t really expect French toast to come out of the kitchen piping hot, but I was a little disappointed that my meal was more lukewarm than I would have liked. It gave the impression that it may have been sitting on a counter a bit before it got to my table.

A friend that dined with me got the hamburger, which she really enjoyed. So, while I’m open to going back to Lola because the food tasted good, I’ll probably skip breakfast.

Lola Address: 1102 Yale St. Hours: 6 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday–Sunday Pricing: $6-$13 Kid-friendly: Yes Alcohol: No Healthy options: Yes Star of the show: Applewood smoked maple bacon

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Page 8A • Saturday, May 25, 2019 • The Leader

Soldiers, from P. 1A are happy to be recognizing seniors as they’re entering the service.”

Soto said he’s joining the Marines to follow in the footsteps of his father, fellow Heights graduate Joseph Soto, who encountered combat in Kosovo in the late 1990s. But some of his peers have other reasons for wanting to serve.

Sergio Soto’s commanding officer in Heights’ Junior ROTC program, Carlos Ramos, said he’s joining the Army because it will help him get into college and eventually get his own house and start a family. Fellow Army recruit Jason Noyola said he likes the camaraderie and structure of

Waltrip’s JROTC program and wants to continue experiencing the military culture.

Heights’ Leonardo Cabral said being in the Marines will allow him to provide healthcare benefits to his disabled younger brother. His friend and classmate Sara Garza, who is Air Force-bound, also was attracted by the medical and educational benefits as well as the prospect of traveling.

“There’s nothing like giving back to their family and their community by joining up in the armed forces. It’s a great move,” said American Legion commander Richard Voorhies, an Army veteran who served

The Leader is publishing a book called “Our Veterans,” slated to come out in November, that will be a collection of stories and photos dedicated to veterans who have lived in the area. To share your story, email veterans@theleadernews.com.

in the Vietnam War. “I personally think it gives them a step up on the rest of their life.

There’s a lot of discipline and a lot of growing up that’s going to happen just in the first six months of their military career, no matter what branch of service they’re in.”

Voorhies said it was good to see so many area youngsters volunteering to serve their country. Garza said she drew inspiration from the table full of veterans from the American Legion, which included Voorhies, who remain invested in their community and their country.

“I want to be them, to come back and see all the other kids

“As a parent, naturally there’s going to be worry. I’m going to be thinking about him all the time,” Joseph Soto said. “But like he mentioned before, I’ve taught him the ways and stuff. Me training myself to not have so much fear, just focusing on what I need to do with the job, the commitment, leading others and stuff like that pushed me through.

“He knows I’m proud of him. I’m waiting to see more from him.”

Follow Adam Zuvanich on Twitter @AZuvanich

Harvard, from P. 1A

Marlins, from P. 1A coaches with the Blue Marlins.

Skorupinski also has been instrumental in helping the club grow its membership to more than 250 swimmers as of this year.

During the Blue Marlins summer season, which lasts from early May through June, there’s almost no break for Skorupinski and her swimmers. They practice every weekday leading up to meets each weekend.

“From (time trials) in midApril through the end of June, we pretty much don’t sleep,” she said with a laugh.

But Skorupinski wouldn’t have it any other way. Several other coaches have come and gone during her tenure as head coach of the Blue Marlins, but she still teaches.

Skorupinski cherishes each relationship she’s cultivated with the Blue Marlins, which has sprouted a tree of relationships.

She said multiple former swimmers she coached now bring their own children to the Blue Marlins. She calls them her “grand-swimmers.”

“You see them develop into adults and good swimmers, then kids and teenagers with good character,” said Skorupinski, adding that many of her recent Blue Marlins swimmers have followed her to St. Thomas when they reach high school. “Across the board, just seeing them grow from that little 4-year-old that cried every day because they didn’t want to swim into college age and seeing them come back to us is awesome.”

that are going to be looking at us,” Garza said. “We’re going to be role models for them for the future, and I’d love to do that.”

Sergio Soto said he looked up to his father, who shared the Marines Corps’ values and ideology with his son from an early age. The younger Soto said he learned about dedication and overcoming adversity from his dad, and he decided at an early age that he wanted to serve in the Marines as well.

Joseph Soto was on hand at Tuesday’s event, where his son’s longtime dream came a little bit closer to becoming reality.

Leaving a legacy Skorupinski’s impact over the years has gone deeper than the pool. Blue Marlins president Mary Beth Whitt said working with her has been an “inspiring experience,” because Skorupinski instills her passion for swimming into pupils of all skill levels and gives them hope for the future through encouragement.

Whitt’s twins joined the Blue Marlins at age 4 and could not swim at all. Thanks in part to Skorupinski, now they can.

Beyond just leading swimmers, Whitt said, Skorupinski also leads people. She has helped mold coaches such as Malcolm.

“He was working on breast stroke technique with a swimmer and he was frustrated with a problem in the swimmer’s stroke. He looked to Donna for help,” Whitt said. “I heard Donna tell Andrew, ‘Don’t give up, never give up, keep trying different things until it works.

Think about how you can teach it differently so that he gets it.’

That has been the underlying message I have always heard from Donna: Never give up on yourself.”

Malcolm, who is part of Waltrip’s swim team, echoed the sentiment. He said Skorupinski began helping him learn to swim when he was 4 and has been a big part of his swimming career ever since.

Since becoming her junior assistant coach, Malcolm said Skorupinski has continued to play a vital role in his growth.

“She’s been very helpful

teaching me how to coach and gives me workouts, drills and exercises that help me be the best that I can be,” he said.

“What stands out is her teaching me that sometimes you have to get a kid out of the pool so they can do the stroke correctly in the pool.”

Since stepping into the Blue Marlins’ head-coaching role, every step Skorupinski has taken has been aimed at instilling passion in the pool and values outside it. Among her influences is helping the older and younger swimmers form mentor-mentee bonds.

One of Skorupinski’s favorite memories includes a then-8year-old swimmer (now a freshman at St. Thomas) who went to an all-star event but was the only swimmer in his heat to not be introduced or have his name called. She recalled the boy’s mother telling her he vowed on the ride home to “go back to the finals in every event, and they’re going to have to call my name!”

Fast forward a few years, and that boy made state in two events this past season under Skorupinski at St. Thomas. Journeys like that, Skorupinski said, are the reason she’ll cherish her memories with the Blue Marlins.

“It’s incredible seeing that look in their eye when they just get it. It’s the best feeling,” she said. “They grow so much in every way possible, and I think it’s just a positive experience for them with all they learn.”

NB:10” Follow The Leader on Twitter and Instagram @FromTheLeader

ty with respect to digital literacy,” Schaff said. “For DISTCO, students were able to submit movies that they had created earlier in the year that dealt with broader topics, like personal reflections. Since one of the (DISTCO) topics dealt with computers and technology, students who had completed a video for the HISD competition were encouraged to submit their video, if they wished, in the DISTCO competition.”

There were almost 500 entrants in the 2019 DISTCO competition and several of Harvard’s submissions received DISTCO recognition. Best Digital Story in the category of Computers/Technology was awarded to the team of Hensley, Ozde Hasanbasoglu, Camila Robinowitz and Avery Rodriguez for their entry, “Video Game Distractions.” Best Digital Story in the category of Personal Stories/Reflection was awarded to Maria Montesdeoca and Lilliana Robinowitz for their video, “Is It Really Bullying?”

And honorable mentions went to Melania Koob, Sofia Lorino and Layla Rodriguez for “Plagiarism” and to Maggie Sullivan for “A New Cat Comes to Town.”

Harvard Elementary and Schaff also received honors for the number of recognized entries and for student instruc-

tion.

Hensley created “Video Game Distractions” with three friends.

“We started with a script,” Hensley said. “A lot of people play video games and don’t do homework and we wanted to tell what happens if you don’t do your homework.”

Hensley said it took the group about five hours to put the video together. The software they used is an HISD-licensed software called Media Works, which Schaff said is much more hands on than something like iMovie, which offers a template.

“You’re actually coding (with Media Works),” Schaff said.

Harvard also received the 2019 Arts Empowerment Award sponsored by Young Audiences of Houston for fostering student growth in innovation and creativity in school-wide fine arts performance assemblies and in after-school clubs such as robotics, choir, coding and multimedia.

“I really believe in our program and how it empowers the students,” Schaff said. “I have seen the students transformed by being able to create, direct and film their own stories.”

De Soto, from P. 1A quests must be submitted to the TCEQ’s chief clerk by June 15. Residents can submit their requests electronically at tceq. texas.gov/goto/comments. A copy of the complete application, the draft permit and the preliminary decision by executive director Toby Baker are available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, the Houston regional office and the Collier Regional Library at 6200 Pinemont Dr. Soto Ready Mix submitted an initial permit application in March 2018,

prompting concern from area residents.

The TCEQ struck down that application a month later.

“During the application review process, it was determined that the 100-foot setback requirement from the central baghouse stack exhaust to the nearest property line was not met, therefore the application has been voided,” the TCEQ wrote in its denial letter.

A subsequent application by Soto Ready Mix, submitted in October 2018, is the one now being considered.

NB:10.5”

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