LEADER LISTING The Leader • Saturday, May 23, 2020 • Page 1B
Avenue makes final push to fund multiuse center By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com It is a dream that was a long time coming, but Avenue Center will open in July, according to Avenue CDC Executive Director Mary Lawler. With $10 million of a $12 million goal raised for the 30,510-square foot, three-story multiuse facility designed by Page and located at 3527 Irvington Blvd., Avenue is asking the public to help get it to the finish line. For the past 10 years, Avenue staff has envisioned a comprehensive space. While helping Houstonians find affordable housing is Avenue’s priority, Lawler said there are other key services that provide a lifeline to families that are struggling financially. “There is a synergy in bringing them together under one roof,” she said. Lawler said Avenue bought the property on Irvington in 2015. For the past five years, the nonprofit has been planning for the building that would serve as its headquarters and as an all-in-one community hub - with services such as a health clinic and early childhood education center. Hurricane Harvey forced Avenue to rework its timeline, but Lawler said construction has continued through the past six weeks and the project is now in the home stretch. “We are thrilled to be in there this summer,” Lawler said, noting that the new center will allow Avenue to consolidate staff from its four other locations, including one on Washington Avenue. The City of Houston provided $3.4 million in project funding for the Avenue Center, while the BBVA Compass Foundation, Houston Endowment and the Complete Communities Improvement Fund
from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gave more than $1 million each. The Marek Family Foundation is one of many other organizations that contributed additional funds to a capital campaign launched a few years ago. A public campaign followed. While the COVID-19 pandemic did not slow construction, Lawler said it threw a wrench into fundraising efforts. “(The past two months) would have been a big push,” Lawler said. “If we need to we will borrow funds. The building will be complete in July.” The center will offer classroom space for Avenue’s homebuyer education and financial capability counseling classes. While staff used to have to do both the English and Spanish versions in the same class, now Avenue employees will have the space to break out the sessions. “We can serve a lot more people,” Lawler said. Another group that will use the space is Project GRAD, a nonprofit that provides a host of college readiness programs to those who are new to the process. Ramiro Fonseca, the community engagement manager for Project GRAD, said the organization is “like a one-stop shop” that helps high school students and their families explore careers, seek out scholarships and navigate the college application process. “For the majority (of the students), they are the first in the family to go to college,” Fonseca said. That was the case for Heights High School student Adrian Herrera, who will attend Trinity University in San Antonio in the fall, majoring in engineering science. He participated in a variety of workshops in his GRAD club.
Photo by Betsy Denson Avenue Center offers more space for Avenue CDC to provide its homebuyer education classes and for its partners to utilize as well.
“I didn’t think I would get in (to Trinity),” Herrera said. “(Project GRAD) truly has been a key part of the process. They never pushed me but they motivated me. It’s been a blessing to me and my family.” Last year, Project GRAD served 5,200 students from all over Houston, borrowing space in libraries and local colleges to offer classes. Now, it can add the Avenue Center to the list. Even though the center is located in the Northside, Lawler said its services will be
available to anyone throughout the Greater Houston area. The genesis of Avenue was a neighborhood group founded by individuals from the old Fifth Ward. “It has organically grown over time,” Lawler said. “Washington (Avenue), then the Near Northside, then Northline.” Those interested in helping Avenue to meet its financial goal are encouraged to visit https://www.avenuecdc.org/ capital-campaign/.
Jennifer M. Solak Attorney & Counselor at Law
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1305 W. 11th St., #3094, Houston, TX 77008
Contributed artist’s rendering The Lowell Street Annex development is seeking tenants.
the Stomping Grounds lawn. There will be consultation space for about six people inside the store as Pham has been making custom cakes for weddings and other special occasions for several years now. But when not in use, the area will provide some inside seating. “We’ll see what the guidelines are when we open,” Pham said. “We want everyone to feel safe.” Follow Becca Cakes on Instagram or visit https://www. beccacakeshtx.com/ for updates. Contributed photo Rebecca Pham plans to open Becca Cakes in June on West 34th Street.
the last few weeks, however many remain hesitant to ink a deal without extreme protection,” she said. “I foresee many tenants slow-playing negotiations as best they can through the summer until there is more certainty if the virus is going to come back in the fall.” Becca Cakes to open in June In December, dessert artist Rebecca Pham announced plans for her first storefront at Stomping Grounds, 1225 W. 34th St., next to Threadfare Children’s Boutique. Now, she said she plans to open Becca Cakes, an 861-square foot space in Building D, by midJune. Pham said the retail bakery with cupcakes, cookies, macaroons and more will mainly be takeout, but customers will be able to enjoy their sweets on
Revive Bingo still on When Revive Development started its Bingo card promotion to help tenants increase business, director of leasing and marketing Monica Danna said the company was pleasantly surprised with the early interest and activity. “The first day we launched it we had a winner,” she said. The promotion, in which customers can win $250 or $1,000 prize packages by making purchases or booking future services from 24 of Revive’s tenants in the Heights, Garden Oaks and Oak Forest area, will continue until May 31. REVIVE BINGO! cards are available on the company’s Facebook and Instagram page. No one has yet achieved bingo blackout, which nets the winner a prize package valued at $1,000. Danna said Revive might reshuffle the card, on which each tenant business represents a
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Hannah Tosch with Colliers International specializes in the retail sector of the Houston area with a primary focus on tenant representation and buyer acquisitions. She also does a lot of work in the Greater Heights and offered an assessment of the current landscape amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. “The retail sector has taken one of the hardest hits by the economy’s shutdown surpassed only by hospitality,” Tosch said. “Now we begin on the path back to normalcy. While Phase 1 and its 25 percent capacity sounded good on paper, ultimately it proved to be financially unfeasible for many restaurants to generate a profit. Many Houston restaurants have chosen to refrain from opening their dining room until Phase 2, which allows for 50 percent capacity. I think we will see more restaurants open for dine-in now that the capacity has been increased and revenue should boost.” As far as leasing activity goes, Tosch said there is a slowdown as most retailers and restaurants need to spend their time and resources on keeping their existing locations up and running. “Hot markets like the Heights and Garden Oaks are not immune to the impact – we are finding that tenants who signed before COVID are now pushing back their openings, some indefinitely,” she said. “Even hot submarkets will see substantial failures of smaller retailers who did not have capital reserves sufficient to survive a prolonged shutdown and then fund a restart. This will open up spaces for new concepts to enter hot, niche markets.” Tosch said all the new leases for Colliers International will include some form of language in regard to COVID-19 or other future pandemic situations. “More tenants have been out in the market touring in
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By Betsy Denson betsy@theleadernews.com
P R O P E R T I E S
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Page 2B • Saturday, May 23, 2020 • The Leader
REALTOR SHOWCASE Compass Real Estate’s Ashley Day takes authentic approach to real estate
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Ashley Day is a Real Estate agent affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed Real Estate broker and abides by federal, state and local laws. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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they have a trust in me because of my ability to grasp and understand the contracts and anticipate events or bumps that could happen. I am ready for them instead of being on the defensive,� she said. “What I bring is that I think I’m really easy to work with – I’ve got a light and fun personality, but still a competent negotiator and go to bat for my clients.� Aside from her legal background, real estate expertise, and years of experience leveraging numerous transactions, she brings a personal touch to the experience of buying or selling a home. The Day family has been a fixture in the Heights and Leader area for more than a decade. The Heights is their home, and she believes in utilizing that authentic, up close and personal perspective to help find someone their perfect fit. “We can educate people on locations, schools, traffic, walkability, and the neighborhood vibe – all the things that people need help with when it comes to familiarity with the neighborhood from a personal perspective,� she said. “Handing over the keys to new home is a priceless experience.� What’s more, she said her clients turn into friends, taking the relationship beyond client-agent to one of genuine friendship that lasts long after the transaction. “Whether it’s a buyer or seller, that’s just such a gratifying experience,� she said. “I love seeing them through to the finish line and fostering those relationships and trust beyond signing those papers to become their neighborhood go-to for all before and after the sale.� Anyone wishing to buy or sell a home with Day can email her at ashley.day@ compass.com or give her a call at 504-2376535. Yes, still a New Orleans number after 12-plus years -- Houstonian for 12-plus years but always “from New Orleans.�
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By Landan Kuhlmann landan@theleadernews.com Ashley Day can usually be seen walking her Australian Shepherd, Nola, around The Leader neighborhoods. But it’s not just a social stroll -- she’s Your Area’s “Walking Agent� -- often times walking between 3-7 miles a day, absorbing Houston’s designs and landscapes as she works to find the perfect landing spot for her clients. “I know every house on every block, and it’s like people know me before they even call me from my Facebook and Instagram photos,� she said. “It’s just a fun, authentic approach.� Day has been a licensed realtor since 2013, and after many years at a boutique brokerage, joined Compass Real Estate in October 2019 to utilize their amazing technology and marketing tools. And though she may walk the areas like a seasoned pro, her path to real estate is somewhat unique. Previously a labor and employment lawyer in New Orleans, she took a Katrina-induced sabbatical after moving with her family from New Orleans and settling into the Heights in 2007. Once her children were in school full time, she delved into real estate. “It was either be a lawyer again with unending travel and trials or try out real estate,� she said. She decided real estate and never looked back, “and quickly established� herself. Since diving in, Ashley Day has focused primarily on Leader neighborhoods, such as Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and the Heights as well as Spring Branch, Montrose, Memorial, and Rice Military. While maintaining a fairly even split between buyers and sellers, she believes her personality and prior law background gives her a leg up before the process even begins. “I think it’s a big plus for the clients that
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The Leader • Saturday, May 23, 2020 • Page 3B
Art Valet: Artists add spice to quarantined lives Mitch Cohen Art Columnist
As we look with cautious optimism toward returning to our normal lives, I asked artists what they have been doing to keep sane, busy and adjust to not having public art events to attend. I got more than 30 responses! This will be the third column in a row highlighting those responses. Jo Edwards, a Rosenberg resident who’s website is texasgalgallery.com, said she’s taken advantage of the time off from the canceled shows to hone her skills as a painter. “I have used the time to paint subjects I might not otherwise have had the time for and to play with new techniques,� Edwards said. “I have a new appreciation for what I do and have worked daily at marketing my work online. I have stayed busy, creative and productive. I am ready to get back to normal, whatever that might be, but I really treasure this time I’ve had with me.� Live streaming and video conferencing have become routine business activities. Artists Elena Sandovici, who
I wrote about in the April 25 edition, and Lauren Luna have incorporated video for both socializing and art sales. “The thing that makes me feel human every day is painting via Facebook Live at 5:45 p.m.,� Sandovici said. “I do this every day and a bunch of people watch each day. Others do on occasion. John (Ross Palmer) logs in and he comments a lot and we get to joke around almost like we’re at a party.� Sandovici tells me as things return to normal, she may invite clients to her studio for a private viewing of her quarantine art. Sandovici broadcasts from her personal Facebook page. Contact her through her website, elenasandovici.com. Luna said she is falling back on her art teaching skills and has been hosting online painting parties on Facebook Live every week on Friday evenings. “I’ve also made it possible for folks at home to have something to do by offering painting kits for sale,� Luna said. “A person picks from the ever-growing stock of available paintings, and then they are shipped a 16-inch by 20inch canvas, brushes, paint and step-by-step directions. Some of the painting options I’ve already done on Facebook Live, so they can paint along
Contributed photo Abstract artist Magda Knop used boxes from home deliveries to create new works of art.
with me like that. Essentially, it’s a painting party at home!� Luna was recently chosen with 22 other artists for a corporate painting party. They will all be painting together live, albeit virtually. Visit her website, artistaluna.com. My email request reached artist and author Lorena B. Fernandez, who is now living in Amsterdam. While it sounds like a nice place to be quarantined, it can be just as stressful. To calm her mind, Fernan-
dez creates a daily doodle and posts it on her social media accounts for the public to follow. “Every day I use colors and chaos and from there I shape something new. Somehow that gives me hope,� Fernandez said. “I try to listen to my feelings and express what is under the surface. I never know beforehand what I will create. I can experience surprise through the way the materials interact. That is exactly what I like. I like to follow my
Contributed photo Artist Bonnie Blue’s handpainted masks have been seen on some famous Houstonians, such as Jim “Mattress Mack� McIngvale.
impulses, moment to moment. “My doodles are to help with mental health and the need that people have for variety and the unknown,� she added. “That need can be a challenge while under quarantine.� Follow Fernandez on Insta-
gram @lorenafernandezarts. Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market and the Market at Sawyer Yards. Find him at ArtValet.com for additional highlights and artist’s stories.
REVIEW:
Options at Chick’nCone handheld, fork-free Zarah Parker Managing Editor
A waffle cone filled with small nuggets of fried chicken slathered in sauce. That’s essentially Chick’nCone’s concept. Or as the restaurant’s tagline reads, “handheld chicken and waffles.� But I tend to disagree that a waffle cone can replace a waffle in the southern staple that is chicken and waffles, so I’d rather say this concept is built around the idea of an easy, on-the-go way of eating chicken covered in sauce that won’t be messy. I liked that the menu is simplistic. You can get a “Chick’nCone Meal,� which comes with the waffle cone filled with chicken tossed in your choice of sauce, Cajun fries and a drink, or you can choose to get one of those three items a la carte. Chick’nCone has six sauce op-
tions. The sweet selections include Cinna-Maple and traditional BBQ, the mild selections include Yella BBQ and Kick’n Ranch and the spicy selections include Buffalo Blue and Peri Peri, a South African chili sauce. I wanted to try more than one sauce and got the Yella BBQ and Kick’n Ranch on the side. The chicken is fried and then sliced into little chunks. Since I asked for the sauces on the side, I just dipped the chicken into each. The Yella BBQ is a tangy mustard BBQ sauce. While mustard-based BBQ sauces aren’t the norm in Texas, I really enjoyed the tangy, smoky sauce. It was, however, very in your face — or should I say very in your taste flavor-wise. The Kick’n Ranch is the opposite. It’s subtle, and while the menu describes it as mildly spicy, I would say it’s not even that. But its creaminess came through. I found myself dipping more into this sauce than the Yella BBQ. One last flavor I was able to try was the Cinna-Maple, which was tossed all over my dining compan-
ion’s chicken. This is Chick’nCone’s take on the more traditional flavor palate of chicken and waffles. I liked the sweetness of the maple paired with cinnamon. Best of all, it wasn’t even sticky or messy to pick up with my fingers to eat. By now you might be thinking, “What about the waffle cone?� I can only say I almost forgot about it. I ate a few pieces of the chicken with a piece of the cone and, while I liked the added texture of crunch it gave, I didn’t need it. The lightly seasoned Cajun fries were good, but nothing to go out of your way for. Chick’nCone Address: 1919b N. Shepherd Dr. Hours: 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday– Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Thursday–Friday, noon–8 p.m. Saturday. Pricing: $4-$12 Alcohol: No Kid-friendly: Yes Healthy options: No Star of the Show: Chick’nCone with Kick’n Ranch
Photo by Zarah Parker The Chick’nCone with Kick’n Ranch was the star of the show at Chick’nCone on North Shepherd Dr.
Heights gelato shop hits the spot with hazelnut spread By Zarah Parker
Your neighborhood Bookstore
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I thought Nutella was weird when it first hit the shelves of grocery stores. And after trying it as a kid, I didn’t see the appeal. Nutella is one of those foods that I find is black and white for most people. They either love it or hate it. At one time, I hated it. But then as I got older, I discovered a love for hazelnuts, especially the chocolate and hazelnut confections, Ferrero Rocher. The brand is owned by the same company that owns Nutella, so I gave the latter another chance and ended up jumping across the line from hate to love. That same company, The Ferrero Group, also owns Tic Tac, which is so left field from its chocolate-centered brands (which also include Kinder) that I had to mention it. There’s just something about that sweet, buttery nut that I love, especially when paired with chocolate. So when I heard that the Heights gelato shop Dolce Neve Gelato, 4721 N. Main St., created its own artisanal hazelnut spread, I had to get my hands on it. And when I did, I of course compared it to Nutella. On first spreading, I noticed that Nutella is completely smooth like creamy peanut butter and the Dolce Neve spread is thicker and I could see little tiny pieces of hazelnut throughout. I spread both on toasted sourdough and wheat bread, which I bought from Angela’s Oven, a vendor at Eleanora’s Market, 2021 Ella Blvd. Once on the bread, both spreads reacted the same against the warmth of the toast
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Auto Home Photo by Zarah Parker Dolce Neve Gelato in the Heights makes a hazelnut spread that is similar to Nutella.
and melted slightly into a creamy topping. I also added banana slices. I recognized instantly that Dolce Neve’s spread was much richer than Nutella. I think the reason is in the ingredients. The Dolce Neve spread contains only four ingredients: hazelnuts, cocoa mass, cocoa butter and cane sugar. Comparatively, Nutella lists 11 ingredients on its label. According to Dolce Neve, its spread contains five times the amount of hazelnuts you would find in a jar of Nutella. After tasting both, I believe it. Nutella isn’t suddenly gross to me, but I
feel a little cheated by it as I now realize it lacks that true hazelnut flavor I’ve grown to love. More so, the biggest difference between the two spreads is the price. I would have never thought I’d defend a $17, 7-ounce jar of hazelnut spread, but I am. Dolce Neve’s spread is genuinely worth it for someone who enjoys hazelnut and chocolate. It’s delicious, it’s supporting local and it’s made with quality ingredients. The only down side is that I’ve already eaten half my jar, which can’t be good for my health if I bought it only days ago.
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Page 4B • Saturday, May 23, 2020 • The Leader
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The Leader • Saturday, May 23, 2020 • Page 5B
CAN HEARTBURN BE A PANDEMIC SIDE EFFECT? Surely, you’ve had heartburn over the years, with indigestion and a burning sensation in the chest. But why so much now—and could it be serious? “Some of my patients have reported worsening heartburn symptoms since the pandemic started,” says Dr. Tomas DaVee, a boardcertified interventional gastroenterologist affiliated with the Heartburn and Ref lux Program at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital. Stress and our response—a rise in consumption of comfort foods—have triggered a slow burn in our chest. Those heartburn triggers include red wine, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, oily, spicy or fatty foods and acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, though people have their own food traps.Some people also are drinking more alcohol daily, and that may cause more acid reflux, when stomach acid rises into the esophagus. According to Dr. DaVee, simply taking antacids isn’t always the answer. He suggests people try to thwart emotional eating or drinking by going for a walk or by meditating instead.
Size Matters
He also stresses that meal size and frequency matters. “I recommend eating three smaller meals and a snack, or even breaking it down to six small meals daily,” says Dr. DaVee.“That can help limit the amount of reflux.” Also, avoiding “trigger” foods in the 2-3 hours before bedtime may cut the frequency of reflux, since some people have more reflux while asleep, and gravity no longer keeps food and fluids down in the stomach. Not drinking caffeine up to 10 hours before bed also is helpful. You
Memorial Hermann Greater Heights 1635 North Loop West Houston, TX 77008 memorialhermann.org/heights
can also elevate the head of your bed up to four inches with wood blocks.
What’s Worse Than Heartburn?
According to Dr. DaVee, other triggers of heartburn symptoms are obesity and insufficient motility, which are the muscle contractions that speed food down the esophagus and out of the stomach. Chronic heartburn may signal a worse condition: esophagitis caused by gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD), a severe form of acid reflux. Affecting 20 percent of adult Americans, GERD often occurs when the stomach’s contents flow backward into the esophagus due to a malfunctioning valve between the esophagus and the stomach. Pressure from a large belly also can cause acid to rise. Heartburn sufferers also may have a hiatal hernia, which is an enlarged hole in the diaphragm. By allowing a small part of the stomach to push through the hole and into the chest, it prevents proper functioning of the valve that keeps acid where it belongs. Classic symptoms of GERD include frequent and severe heartburn and regurgitation of acid or food. Other symptoms include painful or difficult swallowing, a sour taste in the mouth, and chronic coughing and hoarseness. Why is esophagitis more concerning than the heartburn caused by GERD? If left untreated, the condition can damage the esophagus and lead to esophageal cancer. Long-term and chronic acid reflux also can lead to inflammation (esophagitis) and acid erosion.
Tests Can Detect GERD
Although self-diagnosing heartburn is tempting, it can have downsides. “A lot of times the patient is correct, but symptoms of acid reflux also can be caused by other conditions, including a heart attack or esophageal cancer,” Dr. DaVee warns. “It’s vital for a primary care physician or gastroenterologist to check patients for red flags that suggest an alternate diagnosis.” Tests to detect the underlying cause of GERD include esophageal swallow X-rays or an upper endoscopy, a safe, minimally invasive procedure that requires brief anesthesia and usually takes 5-10 minutes. Once the source of the problem is found, it usually can be treated or repaired, eliminating or reducing the need for acidblocking medications in most patients.
Teamwork Can Help
The Heartburn and Reflux Program at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights brings together a cohe sive te a m of i nter vent iona l gastroenterologists like Dr. DaVee, motility specialists, advanced laparoscopic-trained surgeons and specialized nursing and technical staff who are equipped to detect and treat GERD and related conditions in a single location. When you seek care, you don’t want to risk exposure to COVID-19. That’s why Memorial Hermann has adopted Safe Wait measures that enforce social distancing and other protocols to protect patients and their families. To learn more about heartburn treatments or to schedule an appointment, contact the Heartburn and Reflux Program at Memorial Hermann Greater Heights at 713.867.GERD(4373) or visit memorialhermann.org/heights.
Page 6B • Saturday, May 23, 2020 • The Leader
New Thai restaurant debuting in Heights By Zarah Parker
team has dreamed of creating an authentic Thai restaurant since connecting at a networking event in 2014. The hospitality industry had been a part of the pair’s background. Srasrisuwan spent a decade working in her family’s hotel, Khanom Golden Beach, in the Nakhon Si Thammarat province on the Gulf of Thailand. Now she is a global operational planning and resource management consultant for Schlumberger. Loetkhamfu, meanwhile, was a chef partner in Erawan Seafood & Steak, a Thai fusion restaurant in New York. At Kin Dee, Srasrisuwan will oversee the business side, while Loetkhamfu serves as executive chef and manage the kitchen. “We have conceptualized
zarah@theleadernews.com
Longtime friends Lukkaew Srasrisuwan and Miranda Loetkhamfu will bring madefrom-scratch Thai cuisine to the Heights through their joint venture Kin Dee Thai Cuisine, which opens Friday at 1533 N Shepherd Dr. Kin Dee, which is Thai for “to eat well,� will strive to introduce Houstonians to Thai flavors they may not have experienced elsewhere. The restaurant will also utilize family recipes that require hardto-source ingredients inspired by four regions of Thailand — northern, southern, northeast and central. Both Srasrisuwan and Loetkhamfu were born in Thailand, growing up in the southern and northern regions. The
Kin Dee to be a truly authentic representation of our homeland in its flavors, its ingredients, its feel, and its overall vision – a vision that harkens back to Thailand but simultaneously infuses new elements into what a modern Thai restaurant can be,� Srasrisuwan said in a news release. The menu, made up of mostly Thailand-sourced ingredients, includes dishes such as the Money Bag, or “Tung Thong� in Thai, which is deepfried minced chicken wrapped in an edible golden paper and Grilled Thai Meatballs, or “Luk Chin Ping,� which are Thai homemade meatballs with tamarin sauce. Each entree will come in the form of a noodle-based signature Thai dish. Examples are the Southern Style Green Cur-
ry, or “Kanom Jeen Kaeng Khiao Wan,� which is Thai southern-style green curry served on rice noodles, and Cassroled Shrimp, or “Koong Op Woon Sen,� which is a shrimp claypot with bean crystal noodles. Kin Dee will also serve classics like Pad Thai and Chicken Satay. With the restaurant set to open Friday during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kin Dee plans to follow the safety protocols outlined by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott as well as the broader guidelines by the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Kin Dee will operate 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Roundup, from P. 1B
Local produce company serves underserved By Zarah Parker zarah@theleadernews.com
Accessibility to fresh produce has been limited for underprivileged families in Houston during the COVID-19 pandemic, and North Side Banana has stepped in to help fill that gap while working with Houston nonprofits and community groups. North Side Banana, a wholesale produce business and vendor at the Houston Farmers Market, 2520 Airline Dr., through its consumer business division HTX Fresh, created a produce box of fruits and vegetables through its consumer business division HTX
Fresh. The boxes include locally grown and organic selections that can feed a family of four for up to two weeks. “Now more than ever, underprivileged families do not have access to fresh fruits and vegetables,� Liz Moser of North Side Banana said in a news release. “Nutrient-rich foods are so important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We are thrilled to be a resource for local nonprofits and community organizations aiding those in need.� One of the nonprofits North Side Banana enlisted to get the produce boxes to those in need was Olive Branch, which in turn
Photo by Elvis Campos Kin Dee Thai Cuisine co-owners Lukkaew Srasrisuwan, left, and Miranda Loetkhamfu planned to open Friday in the Heights.
square, and continue the promotion through the summer months.
partnered with Clear Lake’s Muslim community, the North American Humanitarian Aid & Relief and the Multi-Cultural Center to distribute more than 3,450 pounds of fruits and vegetables to 150 families in need on May 9. Olive Branch also distributed 2,300 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables for more than 100 families in need in Houston’s Fifth Ward. North Side Banana continues to offer the produce boxes to community groups, with a minimum of 25 boxes per order, from its headquarters at Heights farmers market.
The Lowell Street Annex now leasing The Lowell Street Annex is a new 5,200-square foot space situated between North Shepherd and Durham drives adjacent to the shopping center where Snooze sits on the hard corner. The annex has five-plus parking spots per 1,000 square feet with frontage on West 18th Street. The promotional flyer says the development has “synergy with adjacent retail, including Ford Fry’s two restaurants, Superica and La Lucha as well as Snooze Cafe, SMOOSH Cookies, and Sweat 1000.� For more information, contact Hannah Tosch at hannah.tosch@colliers. com.
Updates at 33 1/3, Shops at Oak Forest Developer Chris Hotze said all the existing businesses have reopened at 33 1/3 as well as the Shops at Oak Forest. Suzy Thompson with SHOP Houston, which works with Hotze on leases, said Luce Ave Coffee Roasters will open in the early summer at 33 1/3. Luce’s Helen Choi said in December that the first floor of Luce will be the training center, with the roastery on the second floor. An open floorplan will give each floor a good view of the other. Thompson said tenant Tropical Smoothie would follow at 33 1/3 with a late summer opening.
THE CLASSIFIEDS. Wanting to run a classified ad? CALL 713-686-8494 Monday - Friday. We accept credit cards.
WANT TO BUY
FOR SALE THE FOAM STORE
Custom Cut Memory Foam Chair Pads Couch Cushions Mattress Foam 2217 W. 34th, Ste. A.
WE BUY GUNS!
713-686-6622
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713-694-4867
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any condition No amount too big or small
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A. beak B. wings C. flight D. nest
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832-890-5453
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Manny
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ELECTRICAL SERVICES Oak Forest Resident/Office • Residential • Commercial • Service Licensed - Insured - 26 Yrs. Exp. “Aâ€? ON ANGIE’S LIST MASTER #178565
TECL #25670
ELECTRICIAN All types of new wiring and repairs
D&E Electric 5 Since 1975 Low Rates
s
TECL#43460
EUGENE
281-448-8615
Cleans Garages, Trims Trees.
HAR BINGER
HAULS TRASH:
Native Houstonian - 46 Yrs.
832-425-2152 - Free Estimates
BRAVENEC ELECTRIC Since 1953 - TECL 19210 Res./Comm. Wiring
281-808-5686 cc accepted
bravenecelectric@gmail.com
PETS
electric
Lights-Plugs-Breakers Cover all electric needs Licensed-Insured
Junk Remover
281.414.8698
• Home • Yard • Garage • Storage • Shed Removal
713-721-5490
TEL. 17823
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Royalty Pet Center Since 1976
• Grooming • Boarding • Pet Supplies 9900 N. Houston Rosslyn
713-849-9000
www.royaltypetcenter.com
LAWN & GARDEN GUIDE
#ALL TODAY BEAUTIFUL HOME TOMORROW
• Landscape Installation • Weather Damage Replacement • Tree Trim & Removal • Lawn & Bed Maintenance • Landscape Lighting • Organic Soil Amendments
www.richtersservicesinc.com • Landscape Design & Installation • Maintenance • Irrigation • Drainage • Lighting • Hardscape (pavers, flagstone, concrete)
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We accept all major Credit Cards
Trimming • Planting Removal “Train up your trees in the way they should grow.â€? • A+ Rated • Free Estimates • Insured “Making Thousands of Houston Trees Healthy & Beautiful for over 33 yearsâ€? 713-690-TREE (8733) Call or Text
RANGER
LUXURY LAWNS
Lawn Maintenance Landscape & Design Sprinklers/Drainage Systems Free Estimates 20 yrs. exp.
713-688-4244 David Bartula
012*$/&+!&+$
Residential/Commercial FREE ESTIMATES/Credit Cards
1/""
office@mashues.com
Gilbert’s Landscape Lawn Care
Mowing • Edging • Blowing Flower Bedding • Fertilizing
TREE CUTTING & TRIMMING
FREE ESTIMATES – 17 Yrs. Exp.
(281) 948-4879
SALAZAR TREES
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832-434-7101
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John Kuenstle Electric,LLC
Perform accounting duties: QuickBooks, recording, filing, inventories, backups. Transaction entries: orders, invoices, AR, payrolls, banking, F. 1099. Reporting: cash balance & finance. Interfaces: checking/back, vendors/ employees/customs, rules & requirements. Accounting, Associate’s Degree, 2-yrs experience accounting/ QuickBooks, MO, Emails, Browsers/Windows. Pan Asian Chemicals 5444 Westheimer Rd., #1570 Houston, TX; cv@7138400050
If you have a local story that may be of interest feel free to email us.
CRyptO fun
WORD SCRAMBLE
EMPLOYMENT
RAMIREZ TREE SERVICE
Trimming • Removal Pruning • Topping Stump Grinding Free Insured & Bonded Estimates Residential & Commercial
713-480-9450
Verdeco
LANDSCAPING SERVICES
• Lawn Maintenance • Fertilize • Mulch, Tree Trimming • Flowerbed Cleanup • Grass Installation
713-703-6406
OUTSIDE
INTERESTS, INC. Lawn Maintenance Experts BOB PENICK
281-914-7747
The Leader • Saturday, May23, 2020 • Page 7B
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENT
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Complete Pavers
QUALITY CONCRETE WORK
• Patios • Decks • Driveways • Brick Columns
Gilbert 281-948-4879
At Reasonable prices
•Patios •Driveways •Room Additions •Expedient Work American Made “God Bless Americaâ€?
713-703-8488 Jim
FENCE SALE WOOD FENCING • Chain Link • Wood • Wrought Iron • Operators 45 yrs. Exp. - FREE EST. Tony 281-787-5942 Eric 832-858-9353 tonymunozjr@comcast.net
ALL HOME REPAIR • Termite/Water Repair
• Sheetrock • Painting • Texturing • Roofing Repair/Replace • Shower/Bath Redo • Tile • Flooring/Carpet • Ceramic Tile • Fence Repair
35 Yrs. Exp. & Leader Advertiser
Call Sam 713-582-5500 713-686-2285
FENCES & DECKS Repair & Installation All Type Fences • Chain link • Wood • Ornamental Iron Small jobs welcome Call 7 Days
Jose `
Repair & Install Pressure Washing Painting • Siding
Gilbert 281-948-4879 Pete’s Quality
CUSTOM PAINTING
WATER DAMAGE REPAIRS
Including Flooded Homes • Exterior/Interior • Pressure Washing • Sheetrock Repair • References • Insured 713-201-5569 832-372-5577
petesqualitypainting300@gmail.com
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Cell (281) 221-0637 When you want results, advertise in The Leader.
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J&D HANDYMAN SERVICE For Your Home Repair Needs: ✔ Painting ✔ Drywall ✔ Hardi Plank Siding ✔ Any Type of Carpentry Work ✔ Complete Remodels TEL
281-272-6900 CELL713-569-4199
Installation, Repairs & Sales
Starting At • Spring Replace $95 • Repair Labor $75 • 8x7 Installed $299 • 16x7 Installed $479 6 Mo, Labor Warranty
American Door Company 832.310.9920
HOWDY'S HANDYWORK • Carpentry - Cabinets to Patios & Decks • Painting, Interior/Exterior • Sheet Rock Repair & Installation
FREE ESTIMATES DAVID OJEMAN 713-682-8033
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Memory Foam Mattresses the
FOAM store
RETIRED CARPENTER LOOKING FOR SMALL JOBS
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Call Rudy 713-882-3530
FREE estimates
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713.206.5965
PRIME ROOFING
Commercial • Residential New Roof • Re-Roof
www.hous tonhe i ght sr oof er s. com
Frank Montes
HOME REMODELING
Painting Interior/Exterior
Sheetrock Repair Match any texture
Roofing Work Carpentry Handyman Services Power Washing Maid Service Good References
(713) 962-3474
REPAIRS
Gutters • Siding • Painting • Roof Leaks
Call Today
832-731-3866
Free Estimates / Work Guaranteed
Insured for your protection • EST 1974 email: Wells5517@sbcglobal.net
713-681-5001
www.camposroofing.com
CAMPOS Roofing
“The Residential Roofing Specialists�
Re-roofs • Repairs Hardi Siding • Gutters • Painting • Windows
All Work Guaranteed Free Estimates
3308 Ella Blvd • (713) 680-3530
ROOFING REPAIRS AND INSTALLATION Flat roofs also. FENCING installation and repairs. Call Sam
713-582-5500
BEST VALUE
CONSTRUCTION
HOME REPAIRS Handyman Services, Carpentry, Painting-Int/Ext, Cabinets, Doors, Trim, Insured Eddie Lunsford
281-352-7304
www.primeroofing.com
IT’S NOT JUST A FENCE IT’S AN INVESTMENT
RIO GRANDE FENCE CO.
Cell: 832-584-0725
713-385-1576
RE-ROOFS
Serving NW Houston Since 1973
martinezconcreteworks@gmail.com
ROOFERS
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by SERNA BROS.
Interior/Exterior
Roofing, Siding, Painting, etc. Keep it local and call the pros.
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
WELLS ROOFING
ROOFING
• Driveways • Patios • Sidewalks • Foundation Additions • Stamp Concrete Bonded and Insured • Free Estimates
Houston Heights
SLEEP BETTER
713.686.6622
Martinez Concrete Works 713-408-0137
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Power Wash
Free Estimates
WEATHER TIGHT
ROOFING
Roof Replacement & Insurance Claim Specialist
25 Years Experience! REFERENCES AVAILABLE INSURED
832.867.6835
Thank you for your continued business Free Estimates on Fencing Compare us.
713-862-7320
30+ Yrs. Exp.
Charlie's
ROOFING
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Regional Ads Call this number to place your ad in millions of homes
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! # -AN
Adam’s
with this ad
281-827-4447
WOOD FLOORS Installation Repair Sanding Finishing
832-515-4214
APPLIANCE & TV REPAIR David’s
.0 , * #, All Makes & Models “We Make House Calls�
Cooling & Heating Res. - Com.
$20 OFF American Standard Authorized Dealer
713-460-COLD(2653) www.acmanhouston.com TACL B27781E
City Wide Mechanical
A/C & Heating
We service ALL Brands Installation, Repairs, & Service
281-590-4826
Over 25 Years Exp. TACL B102846E
I Buy cracked Flat Panel TV’s 1622 W. 23rd
KINARD’S Appliance Service
Washers - Dryers Dishwashers - Ranges 281-350-6255 713-857-2050
AW Appliance Sales & Service Washer • Dryers Ranges & Stoves Refrigerators Freezers
713-697-0335 (open 6 Days)
9235 N. Houston Rosslyn 77088
$ 2EPAIR ,• Refrigerators
!PPLIANCE
• Ovens • Washers • Dryers
832-526-8531
YOUR AD CAN RUN HERE
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PLUMBING Aaron’s
Since 1974
PLUMBING Drain & Sewer Cleaning #17773 - 7 Days a week
825 Curtin 77018
713-695-2222 Cooper Plumbing & Drain Experts
FREE ESTIMATES SENIOR 10% DISCOUNT
832-441-9683
MLP#37942
Affordable Garage Doors
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Page 8B • Saturday, May 23, 2020 • The Leader
FREDRICK’S AUTO REPAIR PA If You Have a Good Honest Mechanic... ic...
KEEP HIM!!
If Not, Call Me Now Offering Mobile Service
832-884-4169
FOR LEASE
OAK FOREST - 2227 LAMONTE 3-1-1, hardwoods, energy efficient windows and insulation, gas range, dishwasher, washer/gaselectric dryer connections. Central air and heat, fresh interior paint. Close to schools, park and shopping. No smokers or pets. $1,500 per month plus deposit. 713-681-0101.
Your #1 Dryy Cleaner
Summer Season Tues- Sun 1-8pm
Opens Memorial Day Weekend
Register & Pay Online
25’ outdoor & detached toddler pool Pa o Furniture to lounge and enjoy a nice picnic
WE ARE OPEN
It is a privilege to serve our community.
Family (up to 4)
$195
addt’l family member $50 ea
Individual member
$95
Palm trees , pavilion, and umbrellas for shade Full showers and dressing rooms
White Oak Conference Center
Bells MyOwn Cleaners • DRY CLEANING SERVICE •
2 Convenient Locations
1362 West 43rd • Houston 77018
713-680-8404
2908 Fulton • Houston 77009
713-227-5461
COVID-19 UPDATE
From Your Neighborhood Attorney,
PHYLLIS A. OESER 713-692-0300
PHYLLIS A. OESER, Your Neighborhood Attorney, is open for business.
The wellbeing of our clients and all others is our number one priority as we navigate this Global crisis. Therefore we are taking precautions. We are communicating as much as possible without meeting in person. However, when in-person meetings are necessary, we have installed large transparent dividers, are cleansing often touched surfaces and are providing masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer. I am blessed to be your neighborhood attorney for over 20 years and hope our actions demonstrate our commitment to you. For assistance please give us a call.
arage
pfl G Liberty Hoe
EgNto ISd coOntP inuin
an munity! m o c r u o e v ser Providing friendly helpful service to families since 1946
Call us today!
713-695-5071 4610 N Shepherd Dr. Houston, Texas 77018 TheLibertyGarage.com
Memorial Day is May 25 “Our Veterans” is a book about the local stories of those who served in our Armed Forces. Copies available for $35. Visit: TheLeaderNews.com to order online and have this handsome, hardcover, book of over 120 pages shipped right to your home.
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