October 19 Section A

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Inside Today: Photos from the Senior Expo • Page 7B

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Covering the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest & the neighborhoods of North Houston

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Saturday, October 19, 2019 • Vol. 64 • No. 42

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PHYLLIS A. OESER ATTORNEY AT LAW

Prospective state legislators competing in rare race

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

The race is typically run in even-numbered years, which makes this one odd.

There have been many other quirks for the 15 candidates vying for the District 148 seat in the Texas House of Representatives, including the fact there are so many of them at a late stage in the election cycle. The field has historically been

whittled down to two several months before ballots are cast, and November has always come with a sense of finality.

But this year’s crop of candidates has been scrambling to gain notoriety and support from potential constituents, many of whom don’t even realize the race is being run. And it’s a near certainty that there will be a See District 148 P. 7A

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INSIDE.

Photo by Adam Zuvanich Jennifer Zambrano, left, is consoled by Carolyn McCall during last Sunday’s march for the Citgo 6 at Candlelight Park.

Area woman fights for release of detained father in Venezuela

By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com

Who wants candy? The area is bracing for Halloween and a stream of trick-or-treaters.

Page 1B

Good dog. A former stray dog known to area residents recently received a national honor.

Page 6A

Voices heard. Texas is listening to Acres Homes residents who oppose a concrete batch plant.

Alexandra Forseth has been on the TV news. She’s been invited to Washington, D.C. She’s had the ears of some of the most powerful people in the United States, including two senators, a congressman and the secretary of state.

The 27-year-old Oak Forest resident would trade all those experiences to be reunited with her father, who she wants to be as well-known as John Cornyn, Ted Cruz or Mike Pompeo.

Alirio Zambrano, a 56-year-old father of three, and five other Citgo executives have been imprisoned in Venezuela for nearly two years over what U.S. officials have said are trumped-up charges. His oldest daughter, Forseth, has dedicated much of her time and energy to bringing awareness to their plight and securing their safe return to America, where five of the men are dual citizens.

“It’s been horrible,” Forseth said. “It’s really taken over my life. It’s been very intense, just kind of like of movie. It’s like living in a movie where you just don’t Photo by Adam Zuvanich believe it’s your life.”

Oak Forest resident Alexandra Forseth is the daughter of Shortly before Thanksgiving in 2017, Zambrano Alirio Zambrano, a Citgo employee detained in Venezuela. and the other Citgo employees were summoned from Texas and Louisiana to Venezuela, where state- Nicolas Maduro. owned oil and gas company Petroleos de Venezuela In an attempt to pressure the U.S. government SA (PDVSA) exerted control over its Houston-based to demand their release, Forseth started the Citgo subsidiary. He and the other men – Gustavo Carde- 6 Coalition and has secured more than 1,000 signas, Jose Pereira, Jorge Toledo, Tomeu Vadell and natures on a petition to elected officials. She orgaZambrano’s brother, Jose Luis Zambrano – were then arrested and have remained jailed by the regime of See Citgo 6 P. 7A

If you are the mother of young children looking for community, then you’re just who Brittany Moss and Briana Hubbard are looking to serve.

Moss and Hubbard have bought the Houston-area franchise rights for Wowmoms World, a concept with locations in Midland and New York as well as Canada and Mexico. The first Southeast Texas location will open in a 5,000 square-foot space at Revive Development’s Stomping Grounds, an under-construction complex at 1225 W. 34th St., in the spring of 2020.

Wowmoms World Houston will feature a play area for children surrounded by rooms offering fitness classes for both adults and children, floatation therapy and swim, massage and other aesthetic services, tutoring services for elementary students and a café with vegan and gluten-free options — even purees for babies — as well as a children’s boutique.

If that sounds like a lot being offered, that is exactly the point. Moss, who worked in sales and a few other jobs in the wellness industry, said she wanted to do something aligned in holistic wellness by connecting with and helping other women feel their best through proper nutrition and physical fitness.

“While pregnant with my son, I heard Wowmoms World was starting to franchise and felt this is what I had to do,” Moss said. “I have experienced first-hand the desire to connect with other moms in my community during pregnancy and postpartum. Wowmoms will not only create an enriching environment for children but for moms to connect and meet their ‘mom tribe.’”

Moss, who lives in Oak Forest, and Hubbard, who is in West University, See Wowmoms P. 7A

Contributed photo Parent and child fitness classes will be one of the offerings at Wowmoms World.

Oak Forest construction company helping shape students’ futures

By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com

Page 6B

THE INDEX. Calendar/Church. ............................. 5A Classifieds.............................................. 4B Coupons. ................................................. 6A Food/Drink/Art................................... 1B Obituaries.............................................. 5A Opinion. ................................................... 4A Public Information......................... 2A Puzzles...................................................... 4A Sports. ....................................................... 3B

Block

Eastman

Photo by Landan Kuhlmann A Houston ISD student shakes hands with MAREK CEO Stan Marek during a commitment ceremony Oct. 9 at Houston Community College’s Southeast Campus. MAREK, an Oak Forest construction company, is partnering with HISD and HCC on a dualcredit, construction certification program.

To be in the room at Houston Community College’s Southeast campus Oct. 9, one might have thought it was a gathering for MAREK workers. There were dozens of people wearing yellow vests emblazoned with the company logo.

But they weren’t MAREK employees. Instead, they provided a preview of the future workforce for the Oak Forest-based construction company.

A commitment ceremony took place for 25 students enrolled in a new dual-credit, twoyear construction certification program at HCC, which is partnering with MAREK and Houston ISD to provide workforce opportunities for Houston-area high school students.

“We need people, and this was the best way to get it going,” CEO Stan Marek said.

“It’s so hard to get kids out of high school, because when they graduate they’ve got a lot of options. A lot of them just have to go to work, and they haven’t gotten the chance to explore what’s really out there. This gives them the opportunity to learn more about us and eliminate some of their fears.”

Students in HISD’s new Career & Technical Education construction program spend a portion of their day at HCC’s Southeast Campus, where they learn skills such as drywall, sheetrock and ceiling construction from a former MAREK field supervisor who is a certified drywall craft instructor.

Michael Love, HISD’s assistant superinSee Marek P. 7A

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THE PUBLIC. The Leader • Saturday, October 19, 2019 • Page 2A

Woman found unconscious at Stude Park

By Zarah Parker zarah@theleadernews.com A woman found unconscious at Stude Park on Oct. 17 was taken to a hospital with minor injuries, according to the Houston Police Department.

HPD spokesperson John Cannon said officers were called to 1035 Stude St. at about 4:15 p.m. regarding a woman who was passed out at a baseball field at the Heights park. Cannon said the woman was dazed and possibly intoxicated, telling police she had been suffering from multiple health problems, was homeless and had not eaten for several days.

Photo by Adam Zuvanich A woman was found unconscious at Stude Park last week and transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

According to Cannon, the woman also said she was unsure of what happened and only remembered waking up on the field. Cannon said she denied that she had been as-

saulted and told police that scratches on her body were from her cat.

Cannon said the woman was taken to a hospital for treatment for her abrasions.

Suspect wanted in sexual assault of young girl From Staff Reports Houston police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect wanted in connection to the sexual assault of a young girl at an area apartment complex in late August.

According to the Houston Police Department, the suspect, described as a black male with a thin build and facial hair, entered an apartment complex

in the 6200 block of Antoine Dr. around 1 p.m. Aug. 31. Police say the suspect loitered in the area near mailboxes, where the victim was waiting for the mail, before grabbing the victim and sexually assaulting her in a common area of the complex and fleeing the scene southbound on Antoine.

The victim was later transported to an area hospital for injuries sustained in the inci-

dent.

HPD said the suspect was last seen wearing a gray and blue tank-top shirt, long pants and black open-toed shoes.

Anyone with information on the identity and whereabouts of the suspect is urged to contact HPD’s Special Victims Division at 713-308-1100 or Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-8477.

Police Reports • Oct. 8 - 13 OCT. 8

Theft 4:37 AM 800-899 HERKIMER Theft 5 PM 2600-2699 SHEPHERD

OCT. 9

Theft 1 PM 500-599 W 38TH Assault 5PM 700-799 E 21ST Assault 7 PM 1100-1199 ADELE Theft 8 AM 3900-3999 SHEPHERD Theft 10 AM 600-699 ARLINGTON Assault 10 AM 600-699 ARLINGTON Assault 11 AM 00-99 E CROSSTIMBERS

OCT. 10

Assault 11 AM 1100-1199 ADELE Robbery 2 AM 100-199 W 20TH Theft 2 PM 200-299 W 20TH Theft 12 PM 500-599 W 19TH

Other 5 PM 300-399 AURORA Other 2 PM 700-799 W 25TH Robbery 1 PM 3600-3699 YALE

OCT. 11

Theft 6 PM 3300-3399 WHITE OAK Theft 10 PM 200-299 W 19TH

OCT. 12

Theft 5 PM 2600-2699 YALE Theft 10 AM 500-599 W 23RD Theft 12 PM 1100-1199 W 20TH Theft 6 PM 3300-3399 WHITE OAK

OCT. 13

Assault 2 PM 200-299 E 33RD Assault 4 PM 4100-4199 OXFORD Theft 7 PM 3100-3199 WHITE OAK Assault 6 PM 1400-1499 W 24TH

Theft 12 AM 800-899 W 41ST Other 12 AM 2800-2899 NICHOLSON Assault 12 AM 2800-2899 W T C JESTER Reports are provided by SpotCrime.com based on data from the Houston Police Department.

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The Leader • Saturday, October 19, 2019 • Page 3A

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THE TOPICS. The Leader • Saturday, October 19, 2019 • Page 4A

Here’s my two cents on two important races

A

fter moderating a couple of political forums in our area over the past month, I’ve been asked a few times if The Leader plans to endorse candidates in the Nov. 5 elections. If you’re a Houston Chronicle reader, you know they’ve spent the past couple of weeks doling out their preferences.

For the most part, community newspapers have never made political endorsements a priority.

For starters, we don’t have a fancy conference room with smart people sitting around asking important questions. Instead, we have me and our wonderful editor, Adam Zuvanich, just trying to figure out what we’ll publish in the next edition.

Beyond that, community newspapers rarely endorse candidates because there’s nothing for us or our readers to gain from the practice. If you didn’t already know, we don’t have much of an editorial staff, and you know that if we endorse a candidate, it’s probably because I support the candidate.

Here’s the other thing: If we endorse a candidate and another candidate wins, we’ll get the full cold shoulder from the winning candidate for an entire term – two or four years, whatever it may be.

While elected officials can’t ignore the reach and strength of newspapers like the Chronicle, they don’t lose a wink if they ignore us while they’re in office.

Jonathan McElvy Publisher

In the end, that’s not a service to our readers, because the more access we have to local, elected officials, the better it is for the people who take the time to read The Leader.

Now, as readers of my column have likely learned over the past seven years, I’m not afraid to give my opinion, and while I don’t plan on telling you how I’ll mark my ballot in a few weeks, I do want to give some insight into two important races facing our district.

Mayor The past couple of weeks have proven difficult for incumbent Mayor Sylvester Turner. He’s been caught lying about hiring an intern, he’s had to grapple with crime numbers – some that say one thing, others that say another – and he’s been forced to attack the person spending the most money in this campaign.

Basically, Turner has had to do exactly what every incumbent

candidate has to do: Defend his or her record.

Meanwhile, Tony Buzbee has now poured $10 million of his own money into a campaign devoted to attacking and rarely providing any solutions to the issues he says Houston must fix.

I suppose there’s a real chance Buzbee will get in a run-off with Turner, because it seems ludicrous to spend $10 million and not at least get a seat at the table. What I’m learning more about his campaign is that Buzbee energizes a group of voters, likely on both sides of the aisle. He’s spent a career winning big dollars for his clients (often minorities), and he has campaigned all over Houston with a posse of politicotypes who would rather work in D.C. What’s most sad to me is that Bill King and Sue Lovell are being drowned out by Buzbee’s millions. If you could combine those two candidates – from very different sides of the political spectrum – I think you’d have the perfect mayor for this city, which is probably why Buzbee has shifted some of his advertising dollars to attacking King.

There’s still time in this race, and it’s going to get ugly in the next three weeks, but it looks like Turner and Buzbee are headed toward a run-off that will make us all hate politics even more. Meanwhile, please spend a few minutes listening to King and Lovell as they continue campaigning.

Lynn Ashby Columnist

are better tippers than men.

Baby boomers are more likely than millennials to tip restaurant servers and taxi or ride-share drivers (63 percent versus 40 percent), hair stylists (73 percent versus 53 percent), food delivery (72 percent versus 56 percent) and hotel housekeepers (33 percent versus 23 percent).

One theory is that baby boomers are older than millennials and probably make more money, so they have more money to tip.

My daughter once worked for a hotel, in the office, and said I should leave at least $2 in my hotel room each day for the maid, and not wait to leave a total tip when I left after staying several days because a maid will often work different rooms or floors each day. I didn’t think about that. When John Kerry was running for president, he left a $20 bill in each hotel room he stayed in, but Kerry was married to a Heinz, as in ketchup and pickles. I guess he could have left a jar of dill. Notice the survey found that women are better tippers than men, but government data finds that women are paid 83 cents on the dollar compared with men.

This might suggest that men would tip more rather than less. But that’s not the case.

Do you tip others in your family’s life who serve you?

More than half of U.S. adults (53 percent) said they give their kids’ teachers or childcare providers holiday tips at least on occasion. In some cases, parents tip hundreds of thousands of dollars to educators just to get their kids in school. But a majority of people said they never give their trash/recycling collectors or mail carriers holiday gratuities. My garbage collectors strike at dawn, so I never see them, but one hot afternoon they came by and I ran out with a six-pack of Coke for them.

The next week they stopped and honked, waiting for their Cokes. No good deed….

Yes, I tip my mail carrier at Christmas because she is so efficient. Despite all the jokes about the post office and mail service, if the rest of the federal government was as efficient as the U.S. Postal Service, I’d be ecstatic.

A 2018 survey by the same organization, CreditCards. com, found that diners in the South and West tend to tip less, while married people tip more than singles and more

City Council District C After spending an evening on the stage with these candidates, the only thing I know for certain is residents of our district will be in good hands no matter who gets the nod. I don’t even like telling you which candidates were best, because it will come across as putting down the others, but at some point we’ll have to narrow down the field.

The most impressive candidates, as you might expect, are the same ones who have raised the most money for this campaign. Abbie Kamin, who had nearly $180,000 in the bank as of last week’s reporting period, is a political newcomer who understands a great deal about the issues in this race. Even though she’s the youngest person on the stage, she can’t be out-gunned on knowledge. She’s a left-leaning candidate, and she’ll fight for votes from Shelley Kennedy, who has been appointed to positions by previous mayors Turner and Annise Parker. Kennedy, like others in this campaign, has a strong understanding of city issues, and she’d do a fine job on council.

On the right side of the political spectrum, Mary Jane Smith has spent a big chunk of money filling social media feeds across the district.

She has touted endorsements from

community leaders, but those will only get you so far in an election.

She’s an intelligent and connected woman who would be an advocate for this district and isn’t afraid to spar with other elected officials.

That’s not a bad quality for our city council, which needs more debate, in my opinion.

Last, Greg Meyers is probably the most moderate candidate in the race, and while he has to answer for his time on the clown show that is the Houston ISD Board of Education, any voter who has heard him speak knows he understands how budgets work, and that’s something our city sorely needs.

And all of that means absolutely nothing, because the District C race will come down to one thing: Which candidate can get the most voters to the polls. I expect turnout will be rather good given the contentious mayoral campaign, but like any good political campaign, the candidates who win usually have a well-greased machine devoted to getting friendly voters to the polls.

In District C, Kamin has the clear advantage with her whopping contributions lead.

Next week, I’ll spend some time on other important races in our area.

Until then, please learn about all the candidates – and not just from your Facebook feed.

Email jonathan@mcelvymedia.com

THE READER.

Tips for tipping THE RESTAURANT – The food was awful, the place was too noisy, the parking was handled by valets who put orange cones our front, with self-parking in the next ZIP code, and here comes the waiter, Lance, with the bill. He was a good guy, pleasant and helpful, but here’s my problem, and maybe yours, too. The bill has a line to write in the tip. So what to do? How much to tip, if at all? It wasn’t the waiter’s fault, but I do want to send a message to the restaurant that this has been one lousy evening. How much do you tip? It used to be 10 percent, now it ranges up to 20 percent, but 20 percent is how much of $11.75? I didn’t bring a calculator. Some restaurants now have a few lines at the bottom of the bill, helping with the math by giving you the exact amount they want as a gratuity: “10 percent -- $14” or “15 percent -- $21” or whatever, again, I didn’t bring my calculator, but I have received bills that suggested a tip of 25 percent, which seems a bit much.

As a rule of thumb, I would take the tax and double it, which was almost 20 percent. Finally it occurred to me that Texas towns have a total of city, county, state and Mafia protection tax of 8.25 percent, or almost 10 percent, so by tipping on the total I was tipping on the taxes, too. I pay enough taxes not to be nickel and dimed to death over a half dozen vodkas. A few New York City restaurants solved this problem by doing away with tips and simply included them on the bill. That didn’t work too well because customers wanted to determine how much they would add to the bill, not the management. What about take-out?

You give the order by phone, text, email or smoke signals, then pick up your meal in a bag, and leave. No waiter at your table taking the order, bringing out the food and no busboy cleaning up your mess. But someone back in the kitchen is cooking your food and someone is bagging it up. Should you tip? Incidentally, have you noticed that when you get back to your desk or home or bridge shelter and open the bag, the order is always wrong? I try to check out my meal before leaving the restaurant, but they always tie up the bag like a roped calf at a rodeo.

To answer these questions, or at least learn what the guy at the next table is tipping, we have The Moneyist. (“Advice to life’s thorniest money issues.”) It cites a survey by CreditCards.com which found: More than half of Americans aged 65 and over tip 20 percent or more at restaurants, the highest of any age group. Women

They are civil, they are both smart, and they both would make wonderful mayors.

Email us your letters: news@theleadernews.com

Special delivery: Timbergrove forms rare bond with mail carrier

than half of Americans aged 65 and over tip 20 percent or more at restaurants, the highest of any age group. So if you are a waiter, look out for old married folks from up east. Waiters have a median income of $21,780 per year or $10.47 per hour. While the growth rate for this industry is 6 percent a year, about the average for most U.S. jobs, “candidates seeking employment at upscale restaurants may face strong competition for jobs,” according to government data.

Back to my bill. My plan is to tip 20 percent, but 3 plus 4, 7 and 2 is… Lance, I’d like a doggy bag and a calculator.

Ashby is tipped at ashby2@comcast.net

Dear Editor: I was once a Mail Carrier once before. When I was a mail Carrier it was definitely not an easy job. It’s a job that can easily go unnoticed.

We are always happy for the uncountable gifts andappreciation when given. I know Shay. She is a very nice girl. We have crossed paths a time or 2. The nice and kind words said about her is very true. I enjoyed working with her when I did at that time.

Misty Griffin Dear Editor: Ms. Shay is a very loving and cheerful young woman. If you are around her for a minute your gray skies will turn blue. A beautiful mother and daughter. She’s family to us and always will be.

She deserves the best in every way. May God continue to bless her route and her career.

Phyllis Joseph Dear Editor: As Ms. Shay’s mother, Dad and I have worked really hard to shape and mold her and is presently doing that as of now. It’s not an easy task being parents and it is very challenging at times. We are thankful and grateful for it paying off. We ourselves carry ourselves in a positive way as well. We’ve always taught our kids to keep a smile on their face no matter what and

if you don’t have anything good to say don’t say nothing. We live in a world that contains a lot of foolishness that’s done for no reason at all so it is amazing to see people doing good deeds and getting along. Our Heavenly Father gets all of the glory. Thanks to everyone for an outstanding job done! We appreciate all that was done from the bottom of our little hearts.

Angeli Williams Dear Editor: Ms. Shay always has a smile on her face and my grandchildren love her. What a great neighborhood and a big thank you to all that shared on this special get together for her.

Gina Dear Editor: This is so inspiring and uplifting. It’s such a blessing to be loved and appreciated especially while at work.

Temeka Davis

County commissioners to vote on tax increase ... if they show up

Dear Editor: Our property value is increased every year!

We pay more taxes every year! If the City of Houston is out of money an audit needs to be done because someone is getting very rich! This is just crazy!

Lisa

the leader Puzzlers.

Answers found in this week’s Classified section

SUDOKU

aCrOss 1. Dignified 7. Where to get a pint 10. Broken down 12. Peruvian city 13. Expressed grief 14. IsaacÕs mother (Bib.) 15. Sizing up 16. Form of Hindustani 17. __-de-sac 18. Greek sophist 19. Greek portico 21. Christian Television Network 22. Attractiveness 27. The man 28. Home of the Cowboys 32. Home to Hollywood 33. Be later in time 36. Woman 37. A type of protection 38. Conservative people 39. Bela __,

Hungarian Leader 40. Rodent 41. Gloss or sheen 44. Looks good in clothes 45. Stephen Malkmus’ band 48. Org. of C. American States 49. Doorways are some 50. Cattle genus 51. Rock bands play them

dOwn 1. Indigenous people of Norway 2. Not odd 3. Ring 4. Adam is one 5. Champion Volunteer QB 6. The smartest Ed 7. Fast cats 8. Two-toed sloth 9. __ humbug!

10. Investigator 11. Explosive warhead 12. Wrap

14. Hidden meaning 17. Reciprocal of a sine 18. Go with pains 20. Small constellation 23. Prohibited 24. Blocks 25. Home to Boston (abbr.)

26. Small viper 29. Toward 30. Promotional materials 31. Plundering and destroying 34. Provokes 35. One point north of due east 36. Freshwater fishes 38. Male parents 40. Little (Spanish) 41. Sean __, actor 42. Bowfin fish 43. Large integers 44. An association of criminals 45. Genus of grasses 46. Annual percentage rate 47. Mechanical belt

WORD SCRAMBLE

The Leader • Saturday, October 19, 2019 • Page 5A

THE OBITUARIES.

THINGS TO DO. The Arts

and listen to live music at Onion Creek.

April Sandone Art Exhibition Saturday, Oct. 19 6 p.m.

The Heights Theater – 339 W. 19th St. The Heights Theater is hosting an open house showcase of the work of visual artist April Sandone.

Heights Epicurean Market Saturday, Oct. 19 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

1245 Heights Blvd.

This once-monthly market does this by inviting Texas farmers who are dedicated to organic and chemical-free farming, artisans, bakers, and all sorts of local food producers together in a fun block party style atmosphere complete with crafts for the children.

Tunes in the Tap Room Tuesday, Oct. 22 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

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

Hudson Moore Saturday, Oct. 19 8 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Hudson Moore is performing at White Oak Music Hall.

Ra Ra Riot Monday, Oct. 21 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Ra Ra Riot is performing at White Oak Music Hall with Bayonne.

The No Sleep Podcast Live Wednesday, Oct. 23 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. The No Sleep Podcast is performing live at White Oak Music Hall.

Temples Thursday, Oct. 24 7 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. Temples is performing at White Oak Music Hall. mike watt + the missingmen Thursday, Oct. 24 8 p.m.

White Oak Music Hall – 2915 N. Main St. mike watt + the missingmen is performing at White Oak Music Hall.

The Markets Eleanora’s Market Saturday, Oct. 19 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, Oct. 19 4 – 8 p.m.

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

The Farm Stand at Petrol Station Saturday, Oct. 19 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

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

Heights Morning Market Sunday, Oct. 20 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,

The Pews Women’s Bible Study Group Monday, Oct. 21 5:30 p.m.

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.

Men’s Scripture Sharing Group Thursday, Oct. 24 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.

St. Rose of Lima Festival Friday, Oct. 25 5 p.m.

St. Rose of Lima – 3600 Brinkman St. The St. Rose of Lima Annual Halloween Festival will take place October 25 at 5 p.m. Those wishing to pre – order their festival items should visit the Annual Events section of www. stroselima.org/school.

Spaghetti Dinner Friday, Oct. 18 5 – 7 p.m.

St. Ambrose Catholic Church – 4213 Mangum St. Ambrose Men’s Club Annual Spaghetti Dinner is Friday, Oct. 18 in the school cafeteria. $10.00 per plate includes spaghetti with meat sauce, garlic bread, salad and ice tea and water. Desserts will also be available for sale. Advance ticket sales only. Pre-sale tickets will be sold before and after all masses on Saturday and Sunday Oct. 5th and 6th and Oct. 12th and 13th, at the Church office. For tickets and information, call 713-686-3497.

Fall Festival Saturday, Oct. 19 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

St. Matthews - 4300 N. Shepherd Dr. St. Matthew’s invites the community to the 2019 Fall Festiva.

There will be a BBQ dinner, pumpkin patch, silent auction, sweet shop, and many other activities. Proceeds go to missions’ work. See the Facebook page or web site at www.stmatthewsmethodist.org, or call 713-6970671.

St. Stephen Events Saturday, Oct. 19 7 a.m. – noon 8502 Rio Grande St.

Fall Fun Event Thursday, Oct. 31 6 – 8 p.m.

Garden Oaks Baptist Church 3206 N. Shepherd Dr. Garden Oaks Baptist welcomes the community to a Fall Fun Event. There will be games, door prizes, bounce houses, hot dogs, drinks and plenty of safe, indoor, climate-controlled fun.Â

The annual golf tournament will be held Saturday, Oct. 19 at Jersey Meadow Golf Course, 8502 Rio Grande St. in Jersey Village. Proceeds will benefit St. Mark’s UMC youth program fire recovery. A mini golf classic for children and youth will be held at noon at Speedy’s Fast Track.

Register online at stshtx.org or call the office. All are welcome to attend Trunk or Treat Sunday, Oct. 27, from 3-5 p.m., featuring plenty of treats and a bounce house. St. Stephen’s UMC is located at 2003 W. 43rd St. For more information, call 713-6868241, or visit www.stshtx.org.

Fun & Games Dia de los Muertos Thursday, Oct. 17 Casa Ramirez – 241 W 19th St. Every year in Houston, Casa Ramirez FOLKART Gallery celebrates Dia de los Muertos – Day of the Dead, a time of festive events throughout Mexico, to honor and remember deceased family members and other loved ones. Free class on the Traditions of Dia de los Muertos with gallery owner Macario Ramirez is offered Oct. 5, 12 and 19, 10 – 11 a.m. A display of a community altar by Judy Turner and personal altar tributes built by family members and other loved ones will be on display from Oct. 17 through Sunday, Nov. 10. A Procession and Public reception for the Dia de los Muertos exhibit will be Oct. 26, 5 – 8 p.m. and includes Aztec dancers from Danza Azteca Taxcayolotl de Houston, music and traditional refreshments. The ceremony of candle lighting and burning of incense occurs on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

First Church Heights Events Saturday, Oct. 19 8 a.m.

First Church Heights – 201 E. 9th St. First Church Heights is hosting a Women Defined and Man Up Bible Study - Growing stronger in Christ. Breakfast served at 8am before splitting up into classes.

On Wednesday, Oct. 23 there will be a daytime bible study at 10:30 a.m. and Humana Medicare information will be at 11:30 a.m.

Annual BBQ Dinner Sunday, Oct. 20 Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Zion Lutheran Church - 3606 Beauchamp Zion Lutheran Church’s Men in Mission will be hosting their annual barbecue dinner in Zion’s Great Room. All “free will� offerings will go toward the Men in Mission’s Seminary Student Scholarships. The public is invited. For more information, call 713-869-1493.

Open Mic Night Tuesday, Oct. 22 9 p.m.

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

All Saints TALC to Host Fall Party Friday, Oct. 25 10:30 a.m.

All Saints Parish Hall - 215 E. 10th St. All Saints TALC senior program will host its annual Fall Party.

The festivities begin at 10:30 a.m. with refreshments, door prizes, costume contest and entertainment by the Strummin’ Saints Ukulele Band. Lunch is available following the party for $2.00. For program information and lunch reservations, please call 713-248-1277.

Thursday Night Bingo Thursday, Oct. 24 5:15 p.m.

SPJST Lodge 88 - 1435 Beall St. Bingo at SPJST Lodge 88 is held every Thursday night. Bingo pads are $10 each. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m.

Community FallFest & Yard Sale Saturday, Oct. 26 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Gethsemane Lutheran - 4040 Watonga In traditional Oktoberfest style, Gethsemane will have food, a bake sale, games, face painting and pumpkin decorating for the kids, and Halloween Trunk or Treat, all while the community Yard Sale continues until 2:00 p.m. There is no charge for FallFest activities.

Trunk or Treat Sunday, Oct. 27 4:30 – 7 p.m.

Advent Lutheran Church – 5820 Pinemont Advent Lutheran Church is hosting a Trunk or Treat. There’ll be treats for kids, a bouncy house and more. People are encouraged to wear their costumes. Contact church office for more details 713-686-8201.

Dia de los Muertos Festival Saturday, Nov. 2 Noon – 8 p.m.

Montie Beach Park – 915 Northwood St. The focus of this free festival has been, and will be, to provide residents within the Greater Heights a fun and educational Dia de los Muertos experience.

The festival will be partnering with nearby elementary school kids and providing interactive exhibits that detail the rich culture and significance of Dia de los Muertos to the Latin American community. Performances include Mariachi Nueva Generacion, Folklorico Mixteco Ballet, HIIT Theatre, Field Elementary, and Browning Elementary. Food will be available from food trucks and vendors, and there will be alcohol for sale on site for those guests over 21. Local vendors will be selling a variety of merchandise. Information for prospective vendors and sponsors is available at https://www. montiebeach.org/dayofthedead.

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on Oct. 7. He leaves behind a loving family: Aunt Irene Bockhorn and her children (Ken, Don, David, and Ann), Uncle Awold Bortz and his children (Janice, Craig, Brenda, and Chris), as well as many other cousins.

Herman, brother-in-law Greg Artz, sister-in-law, Emily Artz, and numerous nieces and nephews: Robin, Nikki, Jason, Adam, Travis, Riley, Drew, Kelsie Farmer, Leigha, Brandon, Cori, Robert, Ashly, Collin, Donald, and Kelsie Wilkins.

Steak Night Friday, Oct. 18 6 p.m.

American Legion Post 560 3720 Alba Rd. The American Legion Post 560 is hosting a steak night, open to the public, this Friday from 6 p.m. until the steaks are gone.

Desserts will be for sale by the Women’s Auxiliary.

New Series at Lazybrook Sunday, Oct. 20 10:45 a.m.

Lazybrook Baptist Church 1822 W. 18th St. Join Lazybrook on Sunday morning as their new pastor Zach Brackett begins a series in 2 Timothy.

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t goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyway: “we have all made mistakes.â€? As Pope so aptly put it: “To ByAlexander Pastor Will Cover err is human, to forgive, divine.â€?Church We should remember Arise Baptist this the next time makeSt.a Houston mistake. Most certainly, we 803we Curtin TX 77018 must learn from our 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 As we come a new season of year and approach can sometimes feelinto almost impossible to forgive ourselves.

Wetime sometimes to forgive something changecannot once bring againourselves it is always a reminder to me we’ve andis we may punish andisharangue ourselves thatdone, change constant.

Change always taking place for and years, eventhings decades, over indiscretions.

In yetorsome about theyouthful change are constant. The addition, of us be able forget thefrom sins year of seasonsome change, butmay the not seasons staytothe same ourtopast. although thatand mayyet prevent us from repeating year.And People change, children are still born the them, we must be charitable and forgive ourselves, just asfor same way, grow up into adults, and then death comes weeveryone should forgive others.

So, weLife should make a real in at some point. is constantly ineffort flux and theyet coming days and weeks to forgive the offenses of others it seems to stay the same as well. To wrap your mind as well as our own. Sometimes, it helps to just forget about around this cycle completely it is necessary to underthem; that is, to try to put them out of our mind and stop stand the source of all things. God says in Malachi 3:6, repeatedly mulling over them. One of the reasons we use “For I am the Lord, I change not.� The God of the unithe phrase “forgive and forget� is because sometimes that is is a to God who i.e., never is better, why we see theverse only way forgive, by changes. forgetting. That But far and many things around us in nature that tend to repeat.

We more divine, is to be able to forgive even while remembering a God createdlet all go things and put everything theserve offense.

So, who we should of those unforgiving, in His order.

The feelings change we seethe around is something vindictive, shameful about past,us and get over that should point us to survived a God who never changes. it! Corrie ten Boom, who incarceration in a Nazi am thankful that God’s love changes.free, If itand was prisonI camp said, “Forgiveness is to never set a prisoner a ficklethat love, it could to realize thethen prisoner wasfade you.�in and out. I am thankful

that God’s truth never changes. It if did change, then I

Judge not, andit.you not bethat judged; couldn’t trust I amwill thankful God’s condemn power never not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, changes. If it did, He wouldn’t always be able to do what and you will be forgiven...

He says He could do.

As the seasons change and as your situations change, R.S.V. Luke 6:37 look to a God who never changes. I know this God. He is a friend to me and if you will get to know Him like I do, I promise you will never regret it!

Page 6A • Saturday, October 19, 2019 • The Leader

Beware of autumn hazards to your pet

Dear Tabby, Now that it’s fall (and finally feeling a bit more seasonal!) what are some hazards that we should look out for where our pets are concerned?

Looking Out For Fido this Fall in The Heights Dear Looking Out For Fido, While most of us are rejoicing that summer in Houston appears to finally be over, with this change in the seasons come some new hazards for your pets to consider. As you’re planning for fall activities and preparing your home for colder weather, keep these potential pet hazards in mind to avoid a devastating vet visit this season.

in the yard, but lurking beneath those leaves could be a whole host of dangers. Snakes and venomous spiders often hide in piles of leaves, as do molds that can cause serious health problems for your pets.

So, after raking those leaves, go the extra step to compost or otherwise dispose of them to keep your yard healthy for you and Fido.

house, be mindful about putting out rodent poisons to keep those pesky pests at bay. If a pet gets hold of the poison, it can be fatal. Additionally, if an owl or other type of predator were to eat a rat or mouse that has been poisoned, this can cause death to that animal.

Look into more natural ways of controlling your rodent population instead.

Antifreeze With colder weather approaching, our cars might need to be topped off with antifreeze. However, antifreeze is very dangerous if ingested by humans or animals. In fact, less than a teaspoon of the stuff can prove to be fatal!

So, make sure to clean up any spills in the garage this season.

Mushrooms Mushrooms often pop up on our yards during the fall. While the mushrooms that we buy at the grocery store are technically OK for pets to eat, some of the mushrooms that grow in our yards can be fatal if ingested. Just to be safe, rid your yard of mushrooms to avoid the temptation for Fido.

Rat poison As you’re cleaning out the garage and winterizing the

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

Pet of the Week

Candy ‘Tis the season for candy around the house. If your pets get hold of candy and eat too much of it, they can be in for some serious harm. Not only is chocolate dangerous for dogs, but consider the wrappers that most candy comes it (and the fact that dogs don’t remove the wrappers before eating the candy). Also, some candy contains an artificial sweetener called Xylitol which can be fatal if consumed by animals.

Meet Nelson This handsome fella is only 2 years old and ready for this fresh start.

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By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com Local realtor Hilary Cobb said it was a wild hair that inspired her to organize last spring’s pet-fest at the Urban Animal Veterinary Hospital on Yale Street. It was a fun, family event where people could also adopt a dog.

Cobb, an animal volunteer who also works with Harris County Animal Shelter, was delighted when volunteers from Houston K-911 Rescue offered to bring Gus, a dog who had made the national news both for his level of abuse and neglect and for his recovery and renewed purpose, to the event. As is true for everywhere he goes, Gus was a hit.

The hometown hero is in the national news again. Gus has been named the 2019 American Humane Shelter Dog Hero.

He was one of seven dogs who went to Hollywood with his “servant and care-taker,” northwest Houston resident Anna Barbosa, to attend the awards gala, which will be broadcast nationwide on Hallmark Channel on Oct. 21. Other category winners included Hero Service Dog, Hero Law Enforcement Dog, Hero Therapy Dog, Hero Guide Dog, Hero Search and Rescue Dog and Hero Military Dog. Barbosa remembers that Gus was found in Southeast Houston in an abandoned apartment complex. As his American Humane entry notes, he was found walking aimlessly with a head so severely swollen, you couldn’t tell he was a dog – thanks to a shoelace tied tight enough that it almost touched his bone.

“His good nature and compliance through all his very difficult procedures and surgeries has given people hope and something to cheer for,” noted the application. “He has been the glue for people from all over the world who look to him for some good in this very caustic and seemingly uncaring climate. His innocence and sweetness transcends cultural differences and indifference to the homeless dog crisis in Houston and other cities facing the same situation.”

Added Cobb: “This dog who might not have lived another day is now world famous.”

Houstonian Sandee Roguemore-Maxwell told The Leader last spring that she wrote “Gus, the Dog with the Big Head,” a children’s book about Gus’ journey, because she wanted to help educate the public about the

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overwhelming numbers of homeless pets in Houston.

“I thought a good place to start is by educating children,” Roguemore-Maxwell said.

Barbosa, the founder of Houston K-911 Rescue, a nonprofit, brings Gus to various school events when she can get the time off work. Gus will next be at a book reading at the Barbara Bush Library in Spring on Oct. 26.

According to Barbosa, Gus’ latest honor almost didn’t happen.

“One of Gus’ (online) followers sent me a link for the nomination on the day of the deadline,” she said. “I almost didn’t enter as it was late in the day and I had just gotten home and needed to attend to the dogs and other responsibilities. I completed the form under the wire.”

Barbosa said Gus has received so much love from people who are learning about the animal overpopulation crisis.

“He is helping to bring attention to this ongoing civic problem for citizens and the dogs,” Barbosa said. “For years the (largest) number of homeless dogs and cats has been limited (to) the low-income areas of Houston. You can visit areas like Fifth Ward, Third Ward, Sunnyside, Denver Harbor and Acres Homes and find dogs roaming the streets, in ditches, and congregating in the fields. Recently, this problem is encroaching into all areas of Houston. People are dumping dogs and abandoning dogs everywhere and in increasing numbers. It is obvious that we have a long way to go in educating on proper pet care and commitment.”

For information on Gus’ Hero Dog recognition, visit herodogawards.org/dog/gus/.

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The Leader • Saturday, October 19, 2019 • Page 7A

District 148, from P. 1A runoff, meaning a winner likely will not be declared until December.

“It’s weird in a lot of ways,” candidate Anna Eastman said.

The unusual circumstances surrounding the battle to represent Northwest Houston in Austin are the product of an unexpected decision by Jessica Farrar, who announced in midAugust that she would retire Sept. 30 after 25 years in the District 148 seat. Per Farrar’s request, Gov. Greg Abbott then called a special election for Nov. 5 to coincide with Houston’s municipal election and thereby ensure substantial voter turnout.

Early voting begins Oct. 21.

But because of the atypical arrangement and abbreviated campaign period – primary races are usually held in the spring before a November election – multiple candidates said many of the voters they’ve encountered did not know Farrar had retired and left her seat up for grabs. So the candidates have worked especially hard to connect with community members, make themselves known and build bases of support.

And, regardless of the outcome later this year, they all realize that campaigning will continue before one of them reports to Austin for Texas’ next legislative session in 2021. There will

be Democratic and Republican primaries for the District 148 seat in the spring of 2020, followed by a general election next November.

“I’ve likened this to we’re running a 5K right now as hard as we possibly can,” candidate Chris Watt said. “Then we’re going to turn around and run a marathon.”

So who is winning the shortened race? It’s difficult to tell, although it’s likely that Farrar will be succeeded by another Democrat.

Twelve of the 15 candidates are Democrats and, according to the latest campaign finance reports filed with the state, the top nine fundraisers are all Democrats. Garden Oaks resident Michele Leal, the daughter of former Harris County Judge Al Leal, had a remaining fund balance of more than $61,000 as of Sept. 26, which was more than twice as much as any other candidate.

Michele Leal, a former staffer of Farrar’s and former co-chair of the Latino Texas Political Action Committee, has a mix of legislative and community advocacy experience as well as some prominent backing. Among her campaign donors is State Rep. Christina Morales, who serves Southeast Houston, and Leal has an endorsement from Hous-

ton City Council member and Mayor Pro Tem Ellen Cohen.

“I don’t think money is the only determiner of viability,” Leal said. “When I look at my candidacy, I’m equally proud of the money I’ve been able to raise and the really strong network of volunteers I’ve built.

We’ve had over 100 volunteers come out for weekends on this campaign. They’ve knocked on thousands of doors.”

Crowded house Eastman, a former Houston ISD trustee and longtime Heights resident, ranked second among District 148 candidates with a fund balance of more than $28,000 as of Sept.

26. She is the only candidate to have won a previous election – Eastman won two – and she has name recognition because the geographic area she represented in HISD has significant overlap with District 148.

Watt, who also lives in the Heights and practices commercial litigation, had a remaining fund balance of nearly $28,000 as of the last filing date. He said his experience as a lawyer has prepared him to navigate the Texas Legislature in terms of both passing laws and blocking those that would be unfavorable to District 148 constituents, and he also has nonprofit experience

Citgo 6, from P. 1A nized a march for the men last Sunday at Candlelight Park, where their families, about 250 other supporters, U.S. Rep. Pete Olson and a representative of Cruz, the senator from Texas, were on hand. Cornyn, the other senator from Texas, sent a letter that Forseth read to the crowd.

Four of the six detained men are constituents of Olson’s in Fort Bend County, and he told Sunday’s crowd he would post a sign outside his Washington office that would be updated daily to show how long the men have been jailed – 667 days as of Sunday. Olson carried that sign as he walked around the park with the other demonstrators. He also wore a white T-shirt that was handed out with “Never give up” written on the front.

The Republican congressman, who is not seeking reelection in 2020, has provided financial assistance to five of the families by working with banks to have their home-loan payments deferred. Olson said he continues to work with President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Pompeo, the secretary of state, to pressure Maduro into releasing the men.

“It’s been a priority,” Olson said. “I want them out before I leave office.”

Continued uncertainty According to Forseth, Olson and relatives of Cardenas and Toledo, the men have been accused of trying to make decisions that would financially inhibit Citgo’s parent company and by extension the Venezuelan government.

Olson said the men have been charged with traitorous crimes but have not yet been granted trials, with previous court dates having been pushed back.

Olson called the charges a “sham” and also called on Citgo to pay the men’s salaries to their families while they are jailed. The wives

Marek, from P. 1A of Cardenas and Toledo said the company stopped paying their husband’s salaries a few months after they were jailed but continue to provide insurance benefits.

They also said Citgo started assisting with legal expenses about six months ago.

Amidst U.S. sanctions against PDVSA, there recently has been some separation between Citgo and the Maduro-controlled parent company. Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, who the U.S. recognizes as the country’s legitimate leader following an election held there, appointed a new board of directors for Citgo in February, and that move was confirmed by a federal court in August.

In a statement released to The Leader on Monday, a Citgo spokesperson said, “Like those gathering in Houston on Sunday, we pray for the safety of our employees, and for their families. As a company, CITGO believes all human rights must be respected.

We have met with and continue to provide support to each of the families of those who are detained by Maduro’s regime, including legal expenses, health care coverage and other benefits. CITGO also continues to support the U.S. Government’s efforts to secure their release.”

Olson said the matter is complicated by the political unrest in Venezuela. He said American officials cannot physically remove the men from custody and refuse to pay any sort of ransom to have them released, so they must continue trying to pressure Maduro into doing so.

The families of the Citgo 6 hope events such as Sunday’s will remind people to continue trying to pressure their elected officials into demanding a resolution.

Among the attendees were Forseth’s friends from her neighborhood and St. Stephen’s United Methodist

Church as well as her coworkers from ExxonMobil. “(Forseth) came and spoke to us at work, gave us the background on the horrible situation with her dad and what they do now and all the families impacted,” said co-worker Katie Lawless, a Heights resident.

“We all kept asking, ‘What can we be doing to help?’

Either get more people involved and knowledgeable about it, or by donating.

She said, ‘Come out here and show everyone that it means a lot to a lot of people.’”

The families of the Citgo 6 are essentially paying for their fathers, grandfathers, husbands and uncles to be jailed. With the help of hired hands and relatives in Venezuela, they have had to provide basic necessities such as food, water, medicine and toiletries.

Forseth said her father had high blood pressure before he was arrested and went a while without medicine or seeing a doctor. She said he also was malnourished during the early stages of his detainment, losing about 60 pounds, and lost some of his vision as well.

Communication has been sporadic. Forseth said she had weekly phone conversations with her dad at one point, but now she has gone nearly two months without hearing his voice. Her mother, Jennifer Zambrano, said she hasn’t spoken to her husband in about seven months.

There is no telling when they might speak to Alirio Zambrano again, or see him in person. No trial dates have been set for the Citgo 6, and there are no signs of diplomacy between U.S. leaders and Maduro.

But relatives of the jailed men will continue to share their story and continue pushing for their release.

“All we can do is hope,” Jennifer Zambrano said.

“Never give up. They’re not giving up. We won’t give up.”

that offers a nanny service.”

Hubbard and Moss plan to contract with employees for most services, including yoga, tutoring, nanny services and massage therapy. They also hope to use the lawn at Stomping Grounds for classes like yoga.

The swim and flotation services take place in aboveground spas and flotation spas, respectively.

“We use body temperature water in our pools, and we use bromine in our water, which is gentler on their skin and allows them to open their eyes,” Hubbard said.

Wowmoms World will be membership-based with options for a play pass. Moss and Hubbard are still nailing down what those prices will be. Hubbard said membership will include perks such as free child care service when you take a group class or spa service, and discounts on goods and services.

All of the food at Wowmoms will be made in-house except a few items such as

the vegan pop tarts and other pastries. They plan to partner with a local bakery for those.

As for the boutique, the focus is on unique retailers.

“We believe in supporting small businesses as well as ‘mom and pop’ shops,” Moss said. “Our intention with this, as well as the rest of our efforts at Wowmoms World, is to keep our world’s pollution to a minimum.”

The aesthetics of Wowmoms World will be consistent with the sites at other locations with a focus on tranquility.

“We are also including an open room concept in our cafe and play areas to encourage conversation amongst our clients,” Moss said.

The idea, at its root, is to take the loneliness out of parenting.

“This is why we created a world based on the principle that the best way to raise children is to make sure we are also taking care of ourselves,” Moss said.

Wowmoms, from P. 7A met through their husbands and became good friends.

Hubbard, who has a nursing degree, also thought the business was a good fit for her interests and energies.

“I have always thrived living a healthy lifestyle and enjoy teaching my children the same cornerstones for longevity,” Hubbard said. “However, I found myself having to visit multiple businesses for all of our family needs. When I learned about Wowmoms World and the opportunity to open one in Houston, I immediately knew this was the facility I had always needed for my family.”

Moss thinks the concept will be a winner after talking to mothers in Garden Oaks and Oak Forest.

“I think a lot of moms are looking for a space where they can go with their children and enjoy a cup of coffee or healthy lunch while they watch their child play close by,” Moss said. “It’s also hard to find a place where you can go and get a massage or facial

as a former board member for Children At Risk.

Right behind Watt in fundraising is Rob Block, a Near Northside resident and Houston firefighter with significant financial backing from the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association. Block was a legislative intern for Farrar in 2015 and has worked with civic groups as well as affordable housing nonprofit Avenue CDC. The other Democrats in the race are Carol Denson, Adrian Garcia, Terah Isaacson, Mia Mundy, Anna Nunez, Penny Shaw, Alva Trevino and Kendra Yarbrough Camarena.

“This is an incredibly crowded field,” Leal said. “There are a number of strong candidates.”

The two republicans in the race are Lui La Rotta and Ryan McConnico, the latter of whom lost to Farrar in 2018. Chris Carmona, who lost to Farrar as a Republican in 2014, is running this year as an independent.

From a fundraising standpoint, La Rotta leads the nonDemocrat group with a campaign balance of more than $3,000 as of Sept. 26. La Rotta, who served in the Navy and works in the energy sector, said District 148 voters are ripe for a change in political philosophy after Farrar’s lengthy tenure.

But La Rotta isn’t spending tendent of career readiness, said the students in the first wave of the program, which is offered free of charge to high school juniors, enrolled in the spring and began dual-credit courses in August.

In partnering with MAREK, he said HISD has a powerhouse in the construction industry that enhances the opportunities the district can provide when it comes to hands-on training.

Courses are geared toward construction technology, with a focus on drywall and a goal that by the end of their senior year, students will graduate with a Level I certificate through HCC. The students will then work as paid interns at MAREK during the summer of 2020.

Along with the certificaton from HCC, students also will have drywall credentials and standing job offers from

MONEY MATTERS Based on campaign finance reports filed with the state of Texas, candidates for Texas House District 148 had the following contribution balances as of Sept. 26: Michele Leal: $61,526.89 Anna Eastman: $28,494.05 Chris Watt: $27,845.82 Rob Block: $27,787.52 Penny Shaw: $14,787.39 Kendra Yarbrough Camarena: $9,260.54 Carol Denson: $4,527.82 Adrian Garcia: $4,525.00 Alva Trevino: $5,226.00 Lui La Rotta: $3,219.70 Mia Mundy: $1,148.31 Terah Isaacson: $1,327.42 Chris Carmona: $830.00 Ryan McConnico: $0.00 Anna Nunez: No report filed

his time and campaign money on challenging the Democrats, at least not yet. He said his initial goal is to qualify for a runoff, which would mean he is one of the top two vote-getters in a race in which none of the candidates garners more than 50 percent of the vote.

“We are targeting our Republican voters and ones that traditionally vote with Republicans,” La Rotta said. “I don’t think we’re competing for the same space yet with the Democratic voters. That’s our strategy right now is making the runoff, and then we have to address the in-

dependents.”

Many of the Democrats share similar stances on key issues in District 148 and the state as a whole, such as advocating for public education, wanting to combat gun violence and striving to make health care and housing more accessible and affordable.

To win and keep the seat colored blue, one of those candidates must find a way to stand out from the rest of the pack.

“I feel like anybody that’s making a strong prediction right now will probably look sort of silly on Nov. 5 or 6,” Block said.

MAREK when they graduate in 2021.

“Not only will they be learning, but they’ll be earning additional income, which will provide them the scope of what’s to come in the industry,” Love said. “I think this will make them more marketable employees whenever they enter the workforce.”

MAREK hopes to provide students with workforce skills they can use no matter their eventual trade. Though the program entails a focus on drywall, there is substantial cross-training as well.

“It’s not easy in construction, especially in our trade,” Marek said. “We do everything you see here, and everything has to be perfect and needs to be by good quality craftsman.”

Marek said the program’s purpose aligns with the

company’s values, which stems from his father’s philosophy that was passed down to him – the sentiment that a company exists for its employees. He said MAREK strives to operate that way.

“These kids don’t want a job. They want a career,” Marek said. “The construction industry has not typically offered that and we don’t approach it the right way. We’re not just hiring you. We’re hiring your family. ... We want you to feel like you’re a part of our family.”

In the future, MAREK hopes to expand the program through its industry partners.

“I don’t think there could be a better opportunity for students in high school,” said Mike Webster, HCC’s associate vice chancellor for workforce instruction.

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Page 8A • Saturday, October 19, 2019 • The Leader

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