June marked the end of an era with the closures of two beloved breweries in the Houston Heights area, with Elder Son Brewing and North Shepherd Brewing both closing their doors at the end of last month. Rising prices inspiring more conscientious spending, threats of increasing tariffs, missed marketing opportunities, and changes in drinking habits all contribute to what could be a harbinger not only for breweries but the hospitality in-
dustry in general.
Elder Son first opened in October 2021 and acquired a second location in February 2024 as Southern Yankee relinquished their brewhouse and taproom to concentrate on their gastropub in Montrose.
Elder Son’s initial intent was to transfer beer production out of their north location and continue to grow both taprooms while increasing distribution designs. Then came the derecho in May 2024, affecting the Heights location which lost power for several days. Soon after, Hurricane Beryl pummeled through the city causing the north location
to also lose power for nearly two weeks. The local disaster-related dips never quite caught back up to recouping lost or even pre-weather event revenue.
“Maybe those were just moments that customers had their own moments in their lives,” reflected head brewer and co-owner, Robert Frye.
“You really don’t know if that was a starting line - or if it caused it.”
Up the road, North Shepherd Brewing opened in April 2024 taking over the facility formerly known as Astral. Sam Wright and his wife,
By STEPHANIE SHIRLEY The Leader News Contributor
Housed in a modest Garden Oaks industrial park space off E. TC Jester, there is a very big business with an even bigger heart and a very colorful history.
The inspiration for Sunbody Hats was born in Cuernavaca, Mexico over a half century ago. Jimmy Pryor, the creator of Sunbody Hats, was there immersing himself in the culture and mastering the language. He’d witnessed the craftsmanship of the people and then returned stateside only to see the same wares being sold on the streets in Austin. After completing his MBA at University of Texas, he found a way to productively leverage his business and cultural experience.
“I had decided I really wanted to assist people in forming something similar to cooperatives and help them
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
As school doors remain closed for a few more weeks, Kristen Barley wants parents to know that STEM learning shouldn’t stop when classes end. Barley, executive director of the Energy Education Foundation (EEF), says early exposure to science, technology, engineering, and math isn’t just about grades—it’s about shaping confident, capable kids ready for the future.
“Early exposure to STEM concepts for young learners is
market their products,” Pryor said.
“Marketing their crafts directly to the U.S. would provide a much greater return for their hard work and effort and
helping them learn organizational and business skills that would benefit many other aspects of their lives.”
In the 80s, Pryor was introduced to Pueblo to People, a non-profit organization that connected Latin American artisans with a market for their crafts. Pryor joined forces and was all in.
“It went gangbusters,” he said. “In the 80s, we made a couple of million dollars a year, but in the 90s, the distribution models weren’t working as well because of the changing geo-political climate in Central America.”
Nevertheless, palm leaf hats had always been the biggest seller, so that’s where Pryor directed his focus.
“We had Pueblo to People going to market center western shows, while we were still trying to decide whether it was best to market to individuals or retailers,” he recalled.
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
Pickleball fans, cocktail lovers, and Heights residents looking for something new to do—meet Drop Shots HTX, the newest pickleball bar bringing glowin-the-dark courts, cheeky drinks, and a family-friendly atmosphere to the Houston Farmers Market.
Founded by friends Roveen Abante, Chase Lovullo, and Shawn Outlaw, Drop Shots HTX combines over 65 years of food and beverage industry experience with their newfound love of the country’s fastest growing sport.
“Pickleball is multi-generational, accessible, and not too expensive,” said coowner Shawn Outlaw. “I actually started playing several years ago at my mom’s prompting. Both of us had tennis backgrounds. I stepped on a court for the first time with my dad and my son—three generations playing the same game together. There aren’t many sports that allow for that.”
Outlaw was instantly hooked. Unlike tennis or golf, pickleball doesn’t require pricey equipment or memberships.
“I started with a $20 paddle. At Drop Shots, our courts rent for $20 during the day,” he said. “If you have four people playing, that’s only five bucks a person. There’s not a lot you can do in Houston for five dollars.”
crucial because it fosters natural curiosity and builds a foundation for lifelong learning,” Barley explained. “It develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and cognitive skills while dismantling stereotypes about who belongs in STEM. That confidence and curiosity can change a child’s trajectory.”
EEF’s mission is to ensure students from all backgrounds see themselves in STEM fields, offering programs like Family Days at the Ocean Star Museum and the new EnergyXP mobile experience, which brings 16 hands-
on STEM activities directly to classrooms. Their programs reach over 350,000 students annually.
STEM isn’t just about test scores, Barley says. Engaging children early builds skills like creativity, adaptability, communication, and teamwork— skills that will define success no matter what career path they choose.
“It teaches resilience and persistence,” she said. “Kids learn that failure is part of learning, and that grit is what moves you forward.”
Photo
The payoff can be big. The STEM job market is rapidly evolving with a growing demand for skilled professionals, projected to increase significantly. This is driven by continuous technological advancements and the need for innovation. Future opportunities for today’s students are emerging in fields such as:
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): Roles in AI development, machine learning engineering, and AI ethics. Cybersecurity: Experts needed to protect data and systems in an increasing digital landscape.
• Green Energy and Renewable Energy Engineering: Opportunities in designing sustainable energy systems and implementing eco-friendly practices.
• Biotechnology and Bioinformatics: Fields requiring deep STEM exper-
It turns out the sweet spot was found in western wear stores and feed stores. Still, retail remained only a small percentage of sales; that is, until the rodeo team at Sul Ross College (now Sul Ross University) caught wind of the hats. Sul Ross, who now holds nine winning national rodeo championships, was enamored with the durability and the ease with which the hats could be re-shaped. Word spread quickly and retail grew from 4-25 percent in a short time. Then, about 15 years ago, Sunbody Hats was approached by a company in Australia, wanting an exclusive contract. Now about a third of their hats are going down under. Ironically, another boon for the business was the pandemic, according to Pryor. Supply chain issues made hat supplies from China and other countries challenging and expensive, so they absorbed that piece of the market as well. As society began to “re-open”, people wanted to get out and travel to sunny destinations, spending money that had been burning holes in their pockets during COVID. While other
Drop Shots features six indoor courts and an impressive bar focused on fresh juices by day and craft cocktails by night. Their drink menu names give a nod to pickleball terminology, with drinks like The Dinker Bell—”this cutie cocktail will have you flying around the courts in no time”—and The Lob Father for those with a sense of humor and a love of puns.
In addition to lessons, clinics, leagues, and tournaments, Drop Shots HTX hosts Friday Night Lights: glow-in-the-dark pickleball sessions that pair energetic music and black lights with friendly matches.
“It’s perfect for some-
tise with advancements in healthcare and life sciences. Robotics and Automation Engineering: Transforming manufacturing, healthcare, and retail.
• Interdisciplinary Roles: Combining technical expertise with ethics, com-
munication, and design thinking.
Many STEM jobs may not require a bachelor’s degree, emphasizing certifications and on-the-job training, with overall high earning potential, job security, and growth.
So how can parents nurture STEM curiosity this summer?
businesses were struggling, Sunbody Hats had some of its best numbers in those postpandemic years. “There were so many interesting things through the years that contributed to our success,” Pryor said. “For instance, years ago we were at the Denver Market and a woman came by to order hats. She was the wife of the famous horse trainer, Buck
thing a little different on a Friday night,” Outlaw said. Reservations are required for the glow courts.
With a covered patio, an upstairs lounge, and the indoor courts, Drop Shots HTX is your event go-to.
“We’ve hosted fashion shows, concerts, corporate events, crawfish boils, pet adoptions, reunions, you name it. We’re willing to work with the community to bring people together for food, drinks, and good times,” Outlaw said.
While Drop Shots transitions to adults-only after 9 p.m., families are welcome during the day and early evening.
“That was really important to us,” Outlaw adds. “Before 9 you can find families with strollers enjoying the outdoor
Brannaman, the inspiration for Robert Redford’s character in ‘The Horse Whisperer’”. Sunbody supplied hats for their clinics, including a style that was named after their daughter Riata. “The family starred in a documentary about Brannaman’s life that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2011. His daughter Riata was wearing our hat in the film and we were
area or catching a game on the big screens.”
And if pickleball isn’t your thing, Drop Shots HTX still delivers. Their newly added kitchen, full-service bar, upstairs lounge, and game area make it a casual hangout for anyone.
“You can come and just hang out, watch a game, or grab a cocktail. The bar stands on its own.” Outlaw said.
Pickleball is a great workout, combining cardio, balance, and hand-eye coordination.
“Paddle sports in general are very good for you mentally,” Outlaw said. “Some studies even show they reduce your risk for dementia. And pickleball burns calories while you’re having fun.”
Barley suggests simple activities like exploring nature trails, cooking to teach chemistry, building sandcastles to understand structural engineering, or planting a garden to connect with biology and environmental science.
“These small, fun experiences build a sense of won-
flooded with requests, asking for the hat she wore.”
The notoriety and success of his hats eventually landed Pryor in the Houston Chronicle and Texas Monthly on multiple occasions. Humble, but reflective about the national recognition, Pryor shared that his hats have adorned the heads of entertainers such as American Blues singer Taj Mahal Willie Nelson Reba McEntire, Pamela Anderson Julia Roberts and the late Toby Keith over the years, just to name a few. When asked what has created so much demand around Sunbody Hats beyond style Pryor responded, “It’s two-
der. They show kids that STEM isn’t something intimidating—it’s everywhere around them,” she said.
EEF’s newest program, the Mobile Energy Learning Unit, launches nationwide in 2025 and will introduce students to the full spectrum of energy, from oil and gas to solar and wind. “It’s all about opening eyes to possibilities,” Barley said.
fold; renowned protection and durability.”
The hats rate a UPF 50, the highest fabric rating, blocking 98 percent or more of both UVA and UVB rays. One in five people in the U.S. will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and as few as five sunburns can double the risk for melanoma, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. This makes Sunbody Hats invaluable preventative safeguards for people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
“In our typical hat, you have six layers; three layers of braid, with two layers of palm leaf each, making it thicker, heavier and more durable,” Pryor said. He demonstrated that on impact, the hats can be manipulated right back into shape. “We work with some of the finest hatmakers in Central America and their quality and workmanship is second to none. We’ve been doing this for over 46 years, so we’ve seen generations of hatmakers, passing their artisan craft to children and grandchildren; it’s a family thing.” Looking closely, there is something unique about each hat sold. When it’s turned over, underneath the sweat band, each hat features the original
Drop Shots HTX is now open in the Houston Farmers Market in Greater Heights located at 2520 Airline Dr. Whether you’re looking to try pickleball for the first time,
Rachel, put their personal touches on the space; repainting walls and warming up the colors of the furniture, accentuating the wide windows with plant decor and designating a play area for kids. Wright had started out as a homebrewer in the early 2000s, admitting that maybe it wasn’t always good but it was exciting. Leveraging his passion for beer he landed at Saint Arnold Brewing Company in 2006 at a time that would serve as a training ground for many of Houston’s brewers and breweries that would sprout up in the years to come. Wright went on to Southern Star in Conroe, founded by one of those aforementioned Saint Arnold alums. North Shepherd Brewing offered a robust roster of beers referencing the neighborhood in which he and his family also live, including a hophead’s dream haul of IPAs such as the Ella, Pinemont, Yale St., West 43rd St., and Crosstimbers.
For the frequent craft beer consumers in the Garden Oaks/Oak Forest/Heights area, there’s worry about the local craft beer industry. Some solace comes from Frye’s sharing that everyone who worked at Elder Son already had a job lined up and waiting for them. Even Wright alluded to a selfassured career change in the
For more about the Energy Education Foundation’s programs, upcoming mobile learning opportunities, and tips to keep STEM alive in your home this summer, visit energyeducation.org or follow @EnergyEdFdn on social media.
signature of the artisan who made it. With shipments totaling more than 4,500 hats so far this year, it is no small operation.
“I think we are now at about 40 different styles,” Pryor said. “They all have different brim widths, crown shapes, and heights. But the one consistent element is the quality.”
Each hat, Pryar said, is inspected, finished, shaped, banded and accessorized to be distributed domestically and to their greatest foreign purveyor, Australia. Except for accessories, the hats are neutral in color. There are two shades, the standard and darker oak; each the outcome of the age and specific processing protocol employed while drying the palm leaves. Pryor and his wife Joan Stewart have always shared a passion for social responsibility. They live in The Heights and have been married for over 35 years. The company’s name is derived from Pryor’s belief that the Sun is the origin of all life on Earth. To learn more Sunbody Hats or to become a distributor, visit their website at www.sunbody.com or visit their showroom at 3580 E. TC Jester in Garden Oaks.
join a league, sip a Dinker Bell, or enjoy Friday Night Lights glow pickleball, Drop Shots HTX invites you to come dink responsibly and discover Houston’s newest community playground. For reservations and more information, visit dropshotshouston.com or follow them on Instagram @dropshotshouston.
works that utilizes specialized skills he picked up along the way as a brewer.
Anyone who’s fantasized about homebrewing may wonder if there could be a beer renaissance. We dropped by Farmboy Homebrew Shop, Houston’s only homebrewing supplies brick-and-mortar, to see if they could offer any insight, validation, or hope into the current state of declining interest in beer.
“The oversaturation was bound to result in closures sooner or later,” says Farmboy employee Michael Mufasa Ferguson, a seasoned director of brewery operations in his own right. “There’s nearly 10,000 breweries in the country, and maybe 5,000 that shouldn’t even be there. But there’s never a bad time to start homebrewing.”
Ferguson’s numbers check out, according to the Brewers Association, a U.S. organization of brewers probably best known for its annual Great American Beer Festival (GABF), a who’s who and what’s what in the craft beer world. The organization also cites that 2024 was the first year since 2005 that the amount of closing breweries outpaced openings nationwide.
Note the mid-to-late aughts was right around the time Wright started at Saint Arnold, drinkers started skipping
European imports for U.S. craft brews, just as brewers were inspired to start their own entrepreneurial endeavors. (Fun Fact: Nearby Eureka Heights and Brash Brewing both have some sort of high level tie to Texas’ oldest craft brewerySaint Arnold.)
The 2020s cut back on inperson socialization, creating an uptick in social media communication that could result in embarrassing online exposure about drinking habits. Twentysomethings today value mental and physical health more than previous generations at that age. There’s also a plethora of alternative experiences and activities that exist now that don’t alter your state. These are simply very different generations, and although the people who were all about beer 20 years ago may still enjoy it, they’re parents now, watching their caloric intake, or simply can’t drink the way they used to.
For people who do still enjoy a local beer and prioritize supporting local, check out your neighborhood breweries. They’ll have a pint waiting for you.
Elizabeth Sosa Bailey is a freelance writer who grew up in Oak Forest and has worked in film, media, arts and culture, and Houston’s craft beer scene. @elizabethsoba
BEER, from P. 1
HATS, from P. 1
STEM, from P. 1
DROP SHOTS, from P. 1
Photos by Stephanie Shirley Garden Oaks-based Sunbody Hats has shipped more than 4,500 palm leaf hats to customers around the world so far this year, with nearly a third going to Australia.
Each hat by Sunbody Hats has been personally signed by its craftsman, making it unique and special.
Submitted photos
Drop Shots is a favorite Friday night hang out with glow in the dark pickleball
The Ocean Star interactive museum is a retired jack-up drilling rig that operated in the Gulf of Mexico from 1969 to 1984 and drilled
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MY FRONT DOOR
–Someone is ringing my door bell. I open the door. “Hi,” says a guy. “I’m your neigh bor from across the street, but we like your house more than ours so we decided to move in. These are my wife and five kids. Come on in, folks. Say, you got WiFi? What’s in the fridge?” OK, this didn’t actually happen, although uninvited visitors have been pouring in by the millions. Yet every econo mist and study show we desperately need undocu mented immigrant workers –most of them hard-working and law-abiding. Anyway, let’s not discuss immigration, it’s already been talked to death and the most meaningless term in our language is “comprehensive immigration reform,” which can mean anything you want it to mean. So we have the Trump, Abbott and Patrick Follies -- or How Larry, Moe and Curly Build a Wall. Over history there have been all sorts of walls. Hadrian’s Wall was built by the Romans across England to keep out the Scots. The Great Wall of China was not the Rockets’ Yao Ming but a 13,170 mile barrier built by the Chinese to keep
THE TOPICS. Walls across Texas
the Great Wall. The Berlin Wall was constructed for just the opposite reason: to keep people in, their own people, the East Germans. I have a few chunks of it I got there right after its destruction. The Bush Library at College Station has a slab of the Berlin Wall to keep out the Aggies. In the past there had been various segments along the Rio erected at major infiltration points. In his first term, President Donald Trump made building the wall his top priority. Alas, his administration completed just 21 miles in Texas. President Joe Biden stopped construction of the wall and piles of steel plates lay rusting
along the border. What then happened? The welcome mat was out. We saw on TV thousands of wannabe Americans pouring in, claiming asylum. There was an express lane for six crossers or fewer. In his last year in office, Biden woke up long enough to clamp down on the flow, but it was too late. Every poll prior to the 2024 presidential election showed voters’ Number 1 worry was the economy, followed by illegal immigration. Illegal border crossings peaked at the end of 2023 and have declined since. In May of 2024 there were 240,924 counted crossings. Last May there were 29,502.
Robert Frost wrote, “Something there is that doesn’t love a wall.” Trump loves a wall, yet the chief push by his administration is to round up the undocumented folks already here. But just like Elon’s chainsaw program to cut down federal workers (who needs air controllers?), ICE’s ham-fisted roundup has turned many Americans against the program. In an effort to deport criminals, ICE has also gobbled up anyone who orders tacos or who serves them. Reader Randy M. sent this:
“Former employee of mine, Joe, a Mexican, used to remind me: ‘We used to own this country, now we just mow it.’”
Here in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott announced that Biden wasn’t stopping undocumented immigrants so the state would take matters into our own dirty hands. “The only thing that we’re not doing is we’re not shooting people who come across the border, because of course, the Biden administration would charge us with murder,” Gov. Abbott said. We would be the first state to build its own border wall. Take that, South Dakota and Kentucky! The wall would be 30 feet high, which led to the thread-bare joke that there was a run in Matamoras for 31-foot-tall ladders. Gov. Abbott said it would cost about $28 million per mile to build. Texas has a 1,254-mile border with Mexico, but the wall would cover only 805 strategic miles. I don’t think this cost included the rubber duckies in the Rio, but Matamoros has a run on snorkels. The Texas Tribune’s research, some of which I’m quoting, reported last year that the state’s wall program would
take around 30 years and more than $20 billion to $24 billion to complete. That would be about three times the cost of paying every Texas public university student’s tuition last year. The estimate does not account for the cost of maintaining the wall once it is built, which will cost around $500,000 per mile each year. (Incidentally, a third of border landowners approached said they were not interested in having the wall on their land.)
Early in its construction, on his official website, Abbott asked for donations to support the wall building, and raised more than $55 million. The link was removed sometime after May 29. But amid all this construction and costs here’s the kicker: The Tribune found that the wall is not contiguous, but only dozens of fragmented sections scattered across the six counties between Del Rio and Brownsville. So our uninvited visitors don’t need a ladder of any height to get over the wall. They just need to walk around it.
In this last session of the Legislature lawmakers approved $3.4 billion for ongoing border security efforts. None of that money will
go toward the wall. Instead, the funds will flow largely to the DPS and the Texas National Guard. Meanwhile, Gov. Abbott asked Congress for $11 billion to reimburse Texas for all the money Texas spent over the last four years on Operation Lone Star, That includes not only the cost of the wall but to bus migrants to northern cities and increase the number of Texas National Guard and state troopers patrolling the Rio. It looks like we won’t get the money, so let’s wait and see what that “big, beautiful bill” looks like when it’s finally done.
Robert Frost also wrote, “Good fences make good neighbors.” He never met Larry, Moe and Curly. Ashby is walled in at ashby2@comcast.net
Editor’s note: This column and its contents do not necessarily reflect the views of The Leader News, its staff, or its publisher. The Leader News welcomes opinion articles on matters of interest to Greater Heights residents at editor@theleadernews.com. Publication is at the discretion of the editor.
Houston Concierge Association to host 15th Annual Cultural Partner Open House and Clothing Drive
Museum, host venue sponsor located at 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston 77004. HCA invites guests to explore the exhibits at The Health Museum at no cost, network with hospitality leaders, learn more about Houston’s cultural offerings, and hear from a special surprise speaker during the event program.
Attendees will enjoy complimentary delectable bites and sips courtesy of the following sponsors:
14, 2025, from 5:30-8 p.m. at The Health
• Birraporetti’s Chella Limoncello
• D’Lish Catering Donut NV Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Haute Chef Kingsley Cafe
• Michael’s Cookie Jar
• Sugar Baby’s Cakery Saint Arnold Brewing Company
• Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Foods
• The Savoy Bar & Grill
Traveler’s Cart Attendees can also enter to win a raffle for gift baskets valued at more than $2,000 including dinners, hotel rooms, tickets, unique gifts and more
by purchasing raffle tickets at the event. The winner must be present to win. HCA is still accepting donations for the raffle and interested companies can contact Guy Yount at the email or phone number below. Hospitality industry guests will also enjoy live entertainment by Twisted Entertainment and photography provided by Your Best Shot Photography and Fulton Davenport.
A Member Showcase will also provide guests with information about Houston and the surrounding area
that will include representatives from Go Rentals, House of Blues, Houston Slingshot Rental, Houston Symphony, KC Events & Florals, Miller Outdoor Theater, and Perimeter Art Gallery & Custom Framing.
During the evening, Star of Hope will be collecting clothing donations benefiting homeless men, women, and children. Donations will be accepted by the Star of Hope truck located near the entrance of the venue.
Free parking is provided by The Health Museum at their
surface lot. For more information about the 15th Annual Cultural Partner Open House, please contact HCA Public Relations Director Guy Yount at 713385-6960 or houstonhca@ gmail.com.
WHEN: Monday, July 14, 5:30-8 p.m.
WHERE: The Health Museum, 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston, TX 77004 COST: $5 gratuity will be collected at the door INFO: houstonconciergeassn.org
Little Woodrow’s hosts weekly “Love Island” watch parties with cocktails and couples’ drama
STAFF REPORTS
As Love Island USA continues to dominate the reality TV landscape, fans in Houston can now get their fix of flirtation, drama, and steamy challenges in a more social setting— complete with themed cocktails and cheering crowds.
According to preliminary Nielsen data for the week of June 9, Love Island USA was ranked the No. 1 most-watched streaming reality series for the second week in a row, cementing its place as a summer television phenomenon. The show, which originated in the UK and has since become a global hit, features a rotating cast of attractive singles living together in a sun-soaked villa while coupling up in hopes of finding love—and winning a hefty cash prize.
Now in its sixth U.S. season, Love Island USA is filmed in Fiji and
hosted by actress and comedian Sarah Hyland, with narration by Iain Stirling. The show’s fast-paced for-
mat—episodes drop nearly every day—means fans can keep up with real-time developments as rela-
tionships evolve and islanders are dumped from the villa.
Houston Joins National Trend Following the lead of other major cities like Washington D.C., Miami, and Phoenix, Houston is embracing the Love Island craze with public watch parties that turn passive viewing into an interactive experience. Four Little Woodrow’s locations in the Houston area will host regular watch parties for fans to enjoy the action together. Little Woodrow’s Heights (2631 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77009) will host watch parties every Monday and Tuesday at 8 p.m. Little Woodrow’s Shepherd (720 Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77007) will hold weekly events every Monday at 8 p.m. All watch parties will continue
weekly through the season finale.
Themed Drinks Add to the Island Vibe
To help viewers feel the villa vibes from afar, Little Woodrow’s is also serving up two cheeky signature cocktails tailored to the show’s devoted fanbase: the Hurricane Huda, a tropical storm of fruity flavor, and the I’ve Got a Text-Tini, a play on the show’s signature announcement that always sends shockwaves through the villa. Whether you’re rooting for a fanfavorite couple or waiting for the next dramatic recoupling, the events offer a chance to enjoy the ride with fellow fans—and maybe even find a “couple” of your own. For more information or to confirm watch party details, check out Little Woodrow’s social media pages and individual location event calendars.
Houston Proud: Karbach Brewing Co. celebrates 713 Day with Lil’ Flip, local DJs
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
July 13 is more than just a date on the calendar for Houstonians—it’s a full-blown celebration of the city’s culture, music, food, and pride. Known as 713 Day, the unofficial holiday takes its name from Houston’s original area code and has grown into a grassroots tradition that honors all things H-Town.
From community events and music showcases to local business pop-ups and themed merch, 713 Day has become a moment for Houstonians to show love for their city’s identity—and Karbach Brewing Co. is going all in.
Lil’ Flip Headlines
Karbach’s 713 Day Bash
Karbach will host Lil’ Flip & Friends, a free 713 Day event at its biergarten on Saturday, July 13, starting at 3 p.m. The all-day party will feature a live performance by Lil’ Flip, the “Sunshine” rapper and Houston native who’s been a fixture in the city’s hip-hop scene since the early 2000s. Joining the lineup is ac-
claimed Houston photographer and DJ Marco Torres, who will be spinning music throughout the day and curating a sound that captures the heartbeat of the city.
Local Vibes, Local Vendors
The event will showcase a curated selection of Houston vendors, giving attendees a chance to support local makers and artists while enjoying the festival atmosphere. Whether it’s handcrafted goods or H-Town-themed apparel, the vendor market is designed to reflect the city’s creativity and diversity. Karbach will also debut limited-edition 713 Day glassware as part of the celebration— available while supplies last. Food and drinks will be available for purchase throughout the day, and Karbach’s full lineup of brews will be on tap, including fan favorites and seasonal offerings.
What is 713 Day?
Though not officially recognized on the calendar, 713 Day (July 13) has become an annual tradition among Houstonians who want to rep
their city. The number 713 was Houston’s first area code, and over time it’s taken on symbolic status, appearing in everything from tattoos and T-shirts to sports chants and music lyrics.
In recent years, local businesses, creatives, and influencers have used the day to highlight Houston’s unique blend of cultures, neighborhoods, and stories—transforming what started as a digital shoutout into real-life festivals, concerts, and community events.
Admission is Free
The Karbach 713 Day celebration is open to all ages, and admission is free. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to snag a spot near the stage and to take part in the limited-run giveaways. Whether you’re a lifelong Houstonian or a new transplant, it’s a chance to connect with the people, sounds, and flavors that make this city one of a kind.
For more information, visit karbachbrewing.com or follow Karbach Brewing Co. on social media.
Castillo continues push for evening council meetings to expand public access
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
In an effort to make local government more accessible to working residents, Council Member Mario Castillo has proposed an ordinance that would shift one City Council public session each month to the evening. The proposal, co-sponsored by Council Members Sallie Alcorn and Amy Peck, is set for a vote on July 9 and has already sparked discussion about equity and civic participation.
Currently, Houstonians can address City Council during public sessions held every Tuesday at 2 p.m.—a time many residents simply can’t attend due to work, school, or caregiving responsibilities. Castillo’s ordinance would move the final Tuesday session each month to 6 p.m., giving more people the chance to speak directly to elected officials.
“Houston is one of the only top five U.S. cities with a weekly Public Session where
residents can speak directly to elected city officials, but it’s held Tuesdays at 2 PM, during work hours,” Castillo noted in a letter to constituents. “That timing shuts many working Houstonians, students, and caregivers out.” Castillo added that some council members claim they haven’t heard enough support for the change—ironically underscoring the very need for more accessible meeting times.
A Simple Change with Broad Impact
The proposed ordinance would officially revise council rules to state that the final Tuesday meeting each month begin at 5:30 p.m., with public speakers scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. All other meetings would remain at their regular times: 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and 9:00 a.m. on Wednesdays. Advocates argue that this minor scheduling adjustment could significantly expand who gets to participate in shaping
A pre-written letter is available for Houstonians to send to city council members in support
local policy. “There may never be a perfect time, but we can offer another option—one that works for more Houstonians,” Castillo wrote.
How to Get Involved
Before the July 9 Vote
Castillo is urging supporters to take action in the days
Screen grab
leading up to the vote. Here are three ways to show support:
• Send a Letter: A pre-
written email addressed to all City Council offices is available for those who want to voice support but can’t attend in person
• Speak at Public Session on July 8: Residents must sign up by 3 p.m. on Monday, July 7 by calling (832-393-1100), emailing (speakers@houstontx. gov), or visiting the City Secretary’s Office at City Hall Annex.
• Organize Civic Support: Civic clubs, neighborhood leaders, and super neighborhood groups are encouraged to submit formal letters backing the change to demonstrate citywide interest.
“Be direct,” Castillo urged. “Tell your Houston City Council Members why this proposal matters, and why it makes a difference to you.” If passed, the ordinance could go into effect later this year, making it easier for residents from all walks of life to be heard at City Hall.
Photos courtesy of Karbach Brewing Top left: 713 Day cups. Top right: Houston Rapper Lil’ Flip. Bottom: The 713 Day concert at Karbach Brewing draws a crowd.
Photo courtesy of Little Woodrow’s
Pet of the Week
The Leader is excited to partner with local no-kill shelter Friends For Life to feature an adoptable pet every week. To view all adoptable animals, fill out an adoption application, show your support through donations or volunteering, or take a pet compatibility quiz to zero in on your very own best friend for life, please visit friends4life.org.
Name: Orion Age: 2 years old
Gender: Male
Meet Orion, the sweetest ball of orange fur you’ll ever encounter! This playful cat has an endless supply of energy and a knack for getting into all sorts of trouble. But don’t worry, he’s also incredibly intelligent and loves to take part in training games. He even knows how to sit (when he’s in the mood to) and high five for treats!
Orion likes to take his time getting to know new people, but once he warms up to you, he’ll be your best friend. He loves to be pet and will stand on his hind legs for head scratches! Orion also enjoys playing fetch, chasing his tail, and climbing anything he can get his paws on. He’s a bit of a chowhound and will do just about anything for a snack. If you’re looking for a fun-loving, affectionate furry friend who will bring a little chaos into your life, then Orion is the purr-fect match for you! Just be prepared to have lots of fun playing and your laughter muscles exercised.
Learn more about Orion at friends4life.org/ adoptable-pets/orion.
COMMUNITY REPORTS
July 13 – or 7/13 – has become the official day to celebrate all things Houston, in honor of the Bayou City’s first area code, 713. Join Houston Food Bank on Sunday, July 13, 2025 for their 2nd Annual 713 Day Volunteer Shift and celebration. For those signing up for the 9 a.m. volunteer shift on this date, they will start the day with a doughnut donated by VooDoo Doughnut, then volunteer at the fun Houstonthemed shift, followed by a post-volunteer celebration of Houston with food, music and
other Houston-centric things to enjoy including music by DJ Bloom and the Astros’ 2017 & 2022 Championship Trophies! 97.9 The Box will be onsite, Ben & Jerry’s will be giving out free scoops, and vendors at the celebration include Exotic Pop and Chingona Picosita Candies, with others to be announced. There will also be a raffle, where anyone who donates at the event is entered to win some amazing prizes! A specially designed 713 Day shirt available for sale with 100 percent of the proceeds going back to Houston Food Bank.
Community CALENDAR
Co-sponsors for the event are Active Athlete and Houston Dynamo/Dash.
Register to volunteer on 713 Day and celebrate Houston while providing Food For Better Lives!
MATCHING DONATION JUST FOR 713 DAY! Club 24 Plus is triple-matching gifts to the Houston Food Bank — up to a total of $10,000 – on July 13! Whether you rep the 713, 281 or beyond, show your hometown pride by donating to help your neighbors facing hunger. With the matching donation, every $1 donated will
provide 9 meals! WHEN: Sunday, July 13, 2025 9-11 a.m.: traditional volunteer shift 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: 713 Day celebration WHERE: Houston Food Bank, 535 Portwall Street (77029) REGISTRATION: Register for the July 13 9 – 11 a.m. volunteer shift at www.houstonfoodbank.org/ ways-to-give/give-time/volunteerwithhfb For more information on Houston Food Bank and its program, please visit www. HoustonFoodBank.org.
Help shape a SAFER future for flood risk reduction
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Join upcoming public meetings on flooding and be part of transformational solutions Flooding impacts everyone, and now is your chance to make a difference. The Harris County Flood Control District invites you to participate in a series of public meetings (public scoping meetings) this summer for a major effort called the Solutions for Advancing Floodplain Evaluation and Resilience Study (SAFER Study). This landmark effort, conducted in coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), aims to identify large-scale ways to reduce flood risk in the region.
Your Voice Matters
Your input is essential to shaping effective, communityfocused solutions. Whether you’ve experienced flooding firsthand or just care about the future of our community, this is your opportunity to attend a meeting, submit a comment, or visit our website to take part in this process. This series of public meetings is a chance to learn about the SAFER Study, ask questions, and share your concerns and ideas. Your feedback will help shape the focus of the study and guide our work moving forward.
Public Meeting Schedule
Public meetings for the SAFER Study will be held
from July to August 2025. Public meeting details, including dates, times, locations, and access information for virtual meetings, are included below and will be posted on the SAFER Study website at theSAFERstudy.org.
In-Person Meetings
Each in-person meeting will be formatted as an open house, meaning you can drop by any time during open hours. You’ll be able to view exhibits, speak one-on-one with SAFER Study team members, and provide input that will guide the study effort. To accommodate our diverse community, meeting materials and interpretation services will be available in Spanish, Vietnamese, and Mandarin.
In-Person Meeting Schedule:
• Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Steve Radack Community Center, 18650 Clay Rd., Houston, TX 77084
Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 5 – 7 p.m. White Oak Conference Center, 7603 Antoine Dr., Building A, Houston, TX 77088
Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 1 – 3 p.m.
Alief Community Center, 11903 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, TX 77072
• Monday, July 21, 2025, from 5 – 7 p.m.
Trini Mendenhall Community Center, 1414 Wirt Rd., Houston, TX 77055
• Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 5 – 7 p.m. Pasadena Convention Center, 7902 Fairmont Pkwy., Pasadena, TX 77504
Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 5 – 7 p.m. Hiram Clarke Multi-Service Center, 3810 W Fuqua, Houston, TX 77045
• Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 5 – 7 p.m.
Telge Exhibit Center, 11206
Telge Rd., Cypress, TX 77429
Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 5 – 7 p.m. North East Community Center, 10918 Bentley St., Houston, TX 77093
Virtual Meetings
Offer your input from home! The live virtual meetings will include a presentation and an opportunity to submit written comments or questions. Please visit theSAFERstudy.org to register and access the live virtual meetings.
Virtual Meeting Schedule
• Tuesday, August 19, 2025 | 6 – 7 p.m. via Zoom
• Wednesday, August 20, 2025 |12 – 1 p.m. via Zoom
Unable to Attend?
The SAFER Study team welcomes written comments at any time. To ensure input is considered during the scoping phase, please visit theSAFERstudy.org for the comment deadline and submission details. The SAFER Study will evaluate, identify, and recommend solutions to reduce flood risk, with a focus on protecting communities and increasing resilience. The multi-year initiative will explore a wide range of flood mitigation options and deliver data-driven, long-term strategies to protect communities across Harris County, and help lay
the groundwork for securing partnership funding and implementing large-scale flood risk reduction projects in the future.
The study area includes the Brays Bayou, Buffalo Bayou, Clear Creek, Cypress Creek, Greens Bayou, Halls Bayou, Hunting Bayou, Little Cypress Creek, Sims Bayou, Vince Bayou, and White Oak Bayou watersheds.
The goal of the SAFER Study is to deliver transformational, community-driven flood risk reduction solutions, in concert with other ongoing efforts, to position Harris County, its communities, and its nationally significant resources to be more resilient to future flood events.
As the lead federal agency for the SAFER Study Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), all comments should be submitted to the USACE at: Mr. Danny Allen, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 2000 Fort Point Road, Galveston, Texas, 77550 Email: comments@theSAFERstudy.org
For More Information Visit theSAFERstudy.org for details about the study. If there are questions, please contact the Flood Control District Communications Office by phone at 346-2864040, by email at comments@ theSAFERstudy.org, or by U.S. Postal Service at 9900 Northwest Freeway, Houston, Texas 77092.
Photo courtesy of Houston Food Bank
Art Valet: Capturing the human form at Archway
Last summer, Archway Gallery’s Drawn From Life showcased the power of figure drawing, inspiring artists and viewers with its raw creativity. They’re back with Drawn From Life II, building on that success with a new invitational group exhibition from Aug. 2-Sept. 4. The opening reception is set for Saturday, Aug. 2, from 5-8 p.m., with most featured artists in attendance.
Archway Gallery hosts figure drawing sessions weekly. Figure drawing is a fantastic exercise to keep an artist’s skillset finely tuned. The exhibition includes a wide variety of works in diverse mediums, created during or inspired by these live sessions. Figure drawing, a timeless tradition, remains a vital and dynamic practice today—and Drawn From Life II is a tribute to that enduring legacy.
As a special component of the exhibition, Archway Gallery will once again host a Figure Drawing Marathon on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. The all-day event is divided into three sessions: A traditional figure drawing with nude models, open to adults; familyfriendly session with clothed models (observing is free at this one); and the final evening round is for adults only with nude models.
Artists may attend a single session for $20, or all three sessions for a discounted rate of $50. Times and details are on the website.
No prior figure drawing experience is necessary. Furniture, such as easels and tables, is provided. Participants are encouraged
Mitch cohen Art Columnist artvalet@gmail.com
to bring their own supplies, but extra materials will be available for those who need them or decide to join spontaneously. You never know when you might suddenly feel the need to spontaneously join a figure drawing session.
Please note: Photography of models is prohibited. However, attendees may take photos of artists at work.
Join Archway Gallery in celebrating the human form through this inspiring and inclusive exhibition and drawing marathon. Light refreshments and free valet parking will be available. Archway is located at 2305 Dunlavy, Houston, TX 77006. More exhibit information can be found at archwaygallery. com/upcoming-exhibitions.
I include many of Archway Gallery’s events and thought, maybe I should tell you why. Number one is I know many of the member artists, and love what the gallery offers both creatives and visitors like you. The other reasons are better summed up by Archway Gallery. Archway is artist owned and operated since 1976. Archway Gallery is one of Houston’s, and the nation’s, oldest artist owned and operated galleries. Of course in Houston, right? Since opening Archway
METRO to implement evening “HOV only” hours on Eastex Freeway
COMMUNITY REPORTS
In an effort to improve traffic flow and ensure a safer, faster commute for highoccupancy vehicles, METRO will implement new HOV ONLY hours during afternoon peak period on the I-69 North (Eastex) HOV/HOT lane beginning Monday, July 7.
Under the updated operations plan, single-occupant vehicles (SOVs) will not be permitted to enter the HOV lane from 4:30 to 6 p.m., aligning the Eastex corridor with METRO’s existing HOV/HOT lanes policy during peak travel times. This change comes in response to increased congestion along the corridor during the evening rush hour. Recent field observations and rider feedback confirmed that traffic in the lane is slowing down to stop-and-go conditions.
“Through the METRONow plan, we are focused on improving regional mobility not just for our riders, but for the entire community,” said Interim President & CEO Tom Jasien. “Maintaining free-flowing HOV/HOT lanes is essential to meeting our systemwide standards for reliability, and it also helps make travel easier and more predictable for drivers.”
The new outbound restriction brings the I-69 North (Eastex) HOV/HOT lane
Submitted photo
in line with METRO’s other major HOV/HOT corridors, where HOV ONLY hours are already in place during both morning and evening peak periods. The morning HOV restriction from 6:30 to 8 a.m. will remain unchanged.
METRO has coordinated with the METRO Police Department and its HOV/ HOT lane operations contractor to prepare for the system updates and enforcement support needed to implement the change.
COMMUNITY REPORTS
The Houston SPCA kicks off its Summer Pet Adoption Special starting Friday, July 4 through Thursday, July 31, when all dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens in the Adoption Center will be 50% off their regular adoption fee, which ranges from $35 to $195. Equine, farm animals, and small pets are excluded. All available pets can be found at HoustonSPCA.org.
All dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens adopted during the Summer Pet Adoption Special will also receive a comprehensive care package that includes:
• Health exam
Microchip
• Spay or neuter surgery
Up-to-date vaccinations
A bag of Hill’s Pet Nutrition dog or cat food
A complimentary postadoption exam at a VCA Animal Hospital
Pet Adoption
Bringing a pet into your home is a major commitment—typically 10 to 15 years of care, love, and responsibility. The Houston SPCA encourages potential adopters to review helpful resources and readiness tips on their website before adopting.
Fireworks and Pet Safety
As the long July Fourth weekend approaches, Chief Veterinarian Dr. Roberta Westbrook reminds pet owners that fireworks can trigger stress and anxiety in animals. Loud noises can cause frightened pets to bolt and potentially become lost. The Houston SPCA urges owners to take preventative steps and utilize available resources to keep pets safe during the holiday.
Tips for a Safe Holiday:
• Check your pet’s microchip and ID tag for accu-
Gallery has exhibited the work of the area’s finest artists, providing an excellent selection of affordable, high-quality original art including sculpture, pottery, painting, and photography in a variety of media and styles.
One of the more than 30 artist members is always onsite, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to meet the artists who create the work, offering a personal insight into the process.
Each month, the front area of the gallery features a special exhibition highlighting one or more artist members, while the remainder of the gallery displays a few works from each of the other artist members. The public is invited to the monthly opening receptions that celebrate the newest installation and work, usu-
ally held the first Saturday of each month from 5-8 p.m. Archway also hosts a variety of music events, art demonstrations, a weekly figure drawing session, monthly readings for local writers, an annual juried art competition and exhibition, as well as a Tea and Tour program, providing visitors with a free artist-led tour of the current exhibition, followed by tea and refreshments.
Archway has a lively and informative monthly newsletter, sign up for it on the website, visit archwaygallery.com or call 713-5222409.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
rate information, especially your current phone number. The Houston SPCA reunites around 300 pets annually thanks to updated microchips.
• Hydration and heat safety: Make sure pets have plenty of fresh water and shade if outdoors. Keep them away from alcohol, sunscreen, and citronella candles, all of which are toxic to animals.
• Grill and table safety: Dogs have over 100
File photo
Weekly figure drawing at Archway Gallery
Photo by Liz Conces Spencer
Archway Gallery’s Drawn From Life II, Aug. 2-Sept. 4, 2025, Houston.
