After more than a year of planning—and surviving both a derecho and Hurricane Beryl—the long-vacant Swift & Company meat-packing plant at 621 Waverly Street has officially entered a new chapter. The redevelopment is being brought to life by
Triten Real Estate Partners and Radom Capital, the development duo behind nearby M-K-T Heights.
Ground broke earlier this summer on the ambitious adaptive reuse project, which will transform the imposing early-1900s brick complex into a mixed-use destination
By BETSY DENSON The Leader News Contributor
The Oak Forest Foster Closet is preparing for its most ambitious undertaking yet: relocating from its second-floor space at Oak Forest Anglican Church (1216 Bethlehem Street) to a significantly larger standalone facility at 3337 Pinemont that will more than double its capacity to serve Houston’s foster and kinship families.
To help fund the expansion, the nonprofit is hosting its inaugural fundraiser, “Raise the Stakes: A Night of Hope,” on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, at Retrospect Motor Works.
The casino-themed evening will feature a silent auction, wine pull, and casino games in the showroom of the antique car dealership located just south of River Oaks. With a fundraising goal of $250,000, the event repre-
sents a critical step in the organization’s growth trajectory.
“We’ve been here almost five years, and from year one, people have said you need more space,” said founder Nicole Aboudaher, explaining the catalyst for the move. “When we have five or six families come in to shop, it’s packed.”
The Foster Closet recently purchased the 7,000-square-foot building on Pinemont, just one minute from their current 1,350-square-foot location. Combined with two storage units on Ella and multiple rooms at Garden Oaks Baptist Church, the organization currently operates across approximately 3,500 square feet of fragmented space, a logistical challenge that creates inefficiencies for staff and volunteers.
“If we have a foster mom who needs
By JUHI VARMA The Leader News Contributor
October marks National Vegetarian Month, a celebration of fresh, flavorful, and plant-forward dining. And this year, bellagreen (always spelled with a lowercase ‘b’) is making it easy to join in.
With locations across Houston and Dallas–Fort Worth, the eco-conscious
bistro is known for its commitment to sustainability and chef-inspired dishes that can be customized for nearly any lifestyle, according to Beth Collins, brand president at bellagreen.
“National Vegetarian Month is a time to celebrate a variety of fresh, healthy, non-animalbased foods,” Collins said. bellagreen’s fall menu is available through Dec. 1 and
spotlights hearty, warming flavors, seasonal vegetables, and flexible options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Even the crowd-favorite Pumpkin Beef Chili can be made vegetarian upon request.
“The vegetarian trend will only grow,” said Collins. “There is such a focus on eating real, quality food that we
By STEPHANIE SHIRLEY The Leader News Contributor
Every September, National Hunger Action Month asks communities to do more than donate—it asks us to understand. This year, the Houston Food Bank (HFB), the nation’s largest food bank, invited staff and volunteers to take the 2025 SNAP Challenge, living for a week on a SNAP-sized food budget of $6 a day to see firsthand how tough choices at the grocery store shape daily life for foodinsecure neighbors. There are numerous initiatives throughout the U.S. during National Hunger Action Month aimed at drawing attention, raising awareness, and promoting understanding of the pervasive issue of food insecurity. The Houston Food Bank (HFB) is one of the most significant participants and the nation’s largest distributor to partners and pantries throughout southeast Texas. The HFB holds a coveted 4-star Charity Navigator rating among nonprofits and is an accredited BBB charity. Helping with assistance applications is a significant community service. SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, with ‘supplemental’ being the operative word. The HFB has used the long-standing annual ‘SNAP Challenge’
Photo by Betsy Denson
Photo by
as an invaluable education tool for employees and volunteers working directly with the community. The challenge is also an effective way to promote understanding and compassion around the repercussions of food insecurity.
President and CEO Brian Greene has been with the HFB since 2005. For over 15 years prior, he served as Executive Director for food banks in Louisiana and Tennessee. Consequently, he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role. He also holds a Master’s degree in Economics, providing him with a unique, multifaceted perspective on the current food insecurity crisis and the best ways to confront it headon. People make wrongful generalizations about SNAP’s use, misuse, payments, and recipients.
“Often, there are misguided assumptions about those utilizing SNAP and the actual need for the benefit, when the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. Living on a modestly healthy diet on the nominal program benefit is nearly impossible. I challenge anyone to try it for a week and share their thoughts. It’s been a real eye-opener for everyone here who has,” said Greene.
The SNAP Challenge revelations were not confined to
offering 60,000 square feet of office, retail, dining, and wellness space along the Heights Hike & Bike Trail.
Historic Foundation, Modern Vision
“The Swift Building is a historic gem,” Eric Gustafson, construction manager at Radom Capital, told The Leader earlier this year. “Our vision for the Swift Building is rooted in adaptive reuse— breathing new life into an iconic structure while modernizing it for today’s restaurants, offices, and retailers.”
Originally built as a meatpacking and cottonseed processing plant more than a century ago, the building’s bones—concrete columns, exposed trusses, and original brickwork—will remain a defining feature. Though weather events briefly slowed visible progress, the developers said the building’s natural aging is part of the aesthetic plan.
“The idea of weathering and aging is included in the initial planning of the redevelopment, so nothing has changed,” Lisa Reyerse of Triten previously said.
A Landmark Preserved
While the site sits just outside the Heights’ official historic district, it received a City of Houston Protected Landmark designation and nomination
a double stroller, we have to go to storage to grab something because it can’t fit here,” Aboudaher said. “We have a bed form that families have to fill out in order for us to coordinate getting a crib in a vehicle and bringing it here when they pick it up.”
The new facility will consolidate all operations under one roof. The building will feature dedicated spaces for volunteers and staff, including a break room with lockers. A 2,000-square-foot back storage area will house outof-season items and overflow inventory, while families will enter through a back entrance with dedicated parking.
Plans for the property include a donation drop-off shed, a landscaped picnic area for volunteers, and potentially a turf playground. The organization recently received encouraging news: they were selected by the Children’s Fund, one of Houston’s largest grant foundations, with compound funding increasing over a three-year period.
Assistant Director Meghan McGarry, who joined Oak Forest Foster Closet as a paid employee in May after nearly four years as a volunteer, brings a unique combination of skills to the operation. A former teacher who worked with children in foster and kinship care and a trained professional organizer, she brings both skill sets to managing the steady stream of donations and interacting with families.
“I really get to do two of my passions,” McGarry said.
Volunteer Sarah Krause has been instrumental in build-
cost, though it was the greatest takeaway. Planning ahead and stretching every dollar has to be done in the context of taste and nutrition. Basic items become elusive; there is always a tradeoff in deciding what is needed versus conceded. Greene said, “Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes is startling. You start to see why people do things like load up at the condiment counter at McDonald’s, just to add the tiniest bit of flavor; something we take for granted.” Greene has deep ties with Feeding America and has become increasingly troubled by state and national trends for food insecurity. Even notwithstanding this past year’s astronomical spike in inflation, food costs have become formidable for many. And, purchasing power usually comes at the expense of nutrition.
The price of “healthy”
The tradeoff means buying cheaper, calorie-dense, highly processed foods to fill the budgetary void. Discussing nutrition, Greene ruminated over pricing factors.
“When you are omitting ingredients, it should drive prices down, not up. But lower sodium, lower calorie, or lower fat options are always priced higher.” He still marvels that ingredient omission in anything deemed ‘healthy’ comes at a premium. Kelly Campos is a
Heights resident and first-time participant in the challenge. She is a Senior Community Resource Navigator for HFB’s Community Assistance Program team. She works in the field connecting the community with food resources, guiding them to partners and helping them navigate application processes. Campos said, “On average, I assist anywhere from 800-1000 people a month.”
She continued, “We have 32 to 35 partner agencies that are serviced by a team of up to 15 Community Resource Navigators. We travel all over Houston to different multiservice centers and those agencies.” The HFB is located centrally in Houston to make distribution and outreach efficient. Because they are so closely interacting with the community, Campos sees a real value in participating in the SNAP challenge and said, “I think everyone involved in championing food insecurity should understand how the process works and who it’s serving. Since we help families apply for SNAP benefits, it’s really important to understand the financial, emotional, and social challenges experienced with the planning and budgeting involved.” SNAP eligibility and amounts differ among households, with the current maximum being only $9.33/ day. Her team joined the chal-
lenge, agreeing to budget $6/ day per person, covering all three meals.
Shopping for a child on $6 a day
Because Campos has a special interest in coaching community parents, her challenge was to make nutritious purchases for a child with the $6/ day allocation. She said, “I was trying to read the labels, making sure items were not high in fructose, sodium, or empty calories or carbohydrates. Even water was pricey, and many of these families don’t have access to clean water. She attempted to eat everything purchased, including the Kids Cuisine.
“My first thought was, ‘Oh my God, I wouldn’t want this for my child.’ I considered healthier options like fresh meat, but it was nearly $3 for a small portion, and that was half of my budget. What about all the other necessary items?” questioned a disillusioned Campos.
Pantries bridge the gap
Because SNAP is only a supplement, many residents rely on pantries and other local food distribution resources. Houston Food Bank is the primary supplier for these, but they work in tandem with other charitable organizations that depend heavily on community donations and support. Heights Interfaith Ministries
to the National Register of Historic Places in 2024.
“This redevelopment reflects our commitment to blending heritage with forward-thinking design, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the Heights’ identity,” Gustafson added.
Design is led by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, celebrated for its work at M-K-T Heights, with Edgeland Group handling landscape architecture and Dally + Associates overseeing structural work. Elysium Construction serves as the general contractor, and Origin Bank provided construction lending.
First Tenants: Merit Coffee and Escalante’s The project’s first restaurant
tenants—Merit Coffee and Escalante’s Fine Tex-Mex & Tequila—were announced this month.
Merit Coffee, based in San Antonio, will open its first Houston café at The Swift BLDG. The 1,400-square-foot shop will feature a large patio overlooking the bike trail, bringing the roaster’s minimalist design and farmer-sourced coffee to a new market.
“We’re beyond excited to finally bring the Merit café experience to Houston,” said Bill Ellis, CEO of Merit Coffee. “We’re thrilled to create new community spaces where our guests can enjoy world-class coffee, thoughtfully designed environments, and genuine connection.”
Escalante’s will occupy
ing the silent auction, securing nearly $30,000 in donated items through outreach to local businesses and supporters. A social worker for 25 years before adopting her daughter, Krause volunteers every Wednesday, helping families shop and sort donations. Her commitment to the fundraiser mirrors her dedication to the organization’s core mission.
“One of the things we say about the closet is that we want it to be a shopping experience, and they can come and not feel like they’re going through somebody’s old handme-downs,” Krause said.
The Foster Closet serves as the only resource within Houston’s Beltway that provides clothing, furniture, and essential items directly to foster and kinship families, not just caseworkers. The organization has maintained a leadership team of ten consistent volunteers who keep operations running smoothly.
The connection to Retrospect Motor Works came through event chair Hana Atherton. Atherton approached Aboudaher about supporting the Foster Closet and brings valuable connections and event planning expertise to the
inaugural fundraiser.
The fundraiser is timed to support renovations, with move-in planned for late summer or fall 2026. The organization operates as an independent 501(c)(3).
For a community that has supported the Foster Closet through donations and volunteer hours, the auction represents an opportunity to ensure the organization’s sustainability for generations to come.
“If the community loves having a place that they can donate to, that their kids can ride their bikes to and volunteer, then we need financial help to continue to do this work,” Aboudaher said.
Tickets and information about “Raise the Stakes: A Night of Hope” are available at oakforestfostercloset.org.
Community members can also support the event by donating wine for the wine pull. Bottles valued at $25 or more -- red, white, rosé, or sparkling -- can be dropped off at the Foster Closet Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., or by appointment. For more information about wine donations, contact Sarah Krause at sarah@offcloset.org.
(HIM) is one such pantry. It sorts and prepares donations from HFB and other providers to share with neighbors. The Leader visited with pantry clients receiving SNAP for added feedback.
One client said, “They just barely give you enough to exist. I wouldn’t be able to make it without help like this.”
Another Heights House resident shared that sentiment, saying, “The amount was so small to start with, and now many of us have had the payments completely cut off. Now I can only afford to eat one meal a day, usually just macaroni and cheese. It’s horrible.”
And yet another pantry client shared that he was a 30-
year Heights resident. He’d recently applied for SNAP benefits. But now, his phone is disconnected, and they have no way to reach him and aren’t currently accepting calls. He said, “I work in the chemical plants as a hydro-blaster and have no work from October ‘til year-end; meaning nothing coming in, zero. I don’t know what I’d do without something like this.”
The faces were all different, but the stories were heartbreakingly similar. To learn more about HFB services, the organizations and agencies it partners with, or ways to support initiatives to reduce food insecurity in your community, visit houstonfoodbank.org.
4,500 square feet with two outdoor patios, continuing its 30-year tradition of scratchmade Tex-Mex classics. “It’s an honor to share Escalante’s heritage in a place that carries more than five decades of rich history itself,” said John Iannucci, CEO of Mas Mex, the restaurant’s parent company.
Connectivity and Community
The Swift BLDG’s location—just south of M-K-T Heights—makes it a natural extension of the trail-side corridor. Once construction clears the remaining northern terrain, the visual and pedestrian link between the two properties will become unmistakable.
BELLAGREEN,
from P. 1
believe people will start to engage with a plant-based diet either on a full-time or part-time basis. bellagreen will continue to answer the call and develop vegetarian dishes that are beautiful and craveable.”
Rooted in Freshness and Flavor bellagreen first opened in Houston 2008. Since then, it has expanded to multiple locations across greater Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, embracing a “menu built around choice” with customizable options to suit a variety of dietary preferences.
Nearly every entrée can be customized to be vegetarian, gluten-free, or allergyfriendly. Executive Chef Silvestre Reyes builds dishes around seasonal ingredients — pumpkin, root vegetables, and butternut squash this fall — and elevates them with bright, house-made sauces, Collins said.
Featured vegetarian dishes include: Veggie Lettuce Wraps : bell peppers, organic quinoa, mushrooms, zucchini, and corn wrapped in baby iceberg lettuce and topped with crispy quinoa strips.
The (V) Burger : a housemade veggie patty of sautéed vegetables, potatoes, hemp seeds, almonds, and chickpea hummus, served on a brioche bun.
Super Veggie Tacos : black bean spread, cremini mushrooms, carrots, avocado, and queso fresco in warm corn tortillas.
Oh Kale Yeah Salad : kale,
By rotating tenants and diversifying offerings between the two developments, Reyerse said, “the success is all in the differentiation,” ensuring the projects complement rather than compete. When complete, the Swift
mango, strawberries, and avocado lemon dressing with roasted pumpkin seeds.
• Roasted Veggie & Chickpea Bowl : roasted root vegetables, broccoli, and chickpeas drizzled with fig balsamic sauce.
For dessert, the Pumpkin Cheesecake--spiced with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove on a coconut hemp crust-- is both vegetarian and gluten-free. It’s also the star of National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day on Oct. 21.
Seasonality and Sustainability bellagreen’s emphasis on seasonal produce isn’t just about flavor — it’s part of a broader commitment to reducing waste and supporting mindful sourcing.
“Seasonality is everything,” Collins said. “Fresh produce naturally delivers the best flavor, so our menus highlight the heroes of each season.” When developing a new dish, Chef Reyes’s creative starting point is a hearty sea-
sonal vegetable, said Collins.
“Most of our innovation occurs inside a seasonal window,” she said. “So, for fall, everything is grounded in pumpkin, root veggies and butternut squash. These create a wonderful launchpad. Then we develop sauces that really bring out the powerful, natural flavors of the ingredients.”
Similarly, the stars of the spring menu are bright, colorful avocados and mangos. Summer is inspired by ingredients that hydrate, like watermelon and cucumber.
Visit bellagreen
Celebrate National Vegetarian Month by exploring bellagreen’s fall menu at its Houston and Dallas–Fort Worth locations. Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or just curious about plantforward dining, bellagreen offers a welcoming table — and a delicious way to celebrate the season. For more information, visit bellagreen.com.
campus will feature chefdriven dining concepts, health and fitness studios, boutique retail, and creative offices. Construction completion is anticipated in spring 2026, with grand openings slated for fall 2026. SCHOOLS, from P. 1
SWIFT, from P. 1
Submitted photo Crews continue structural restoration work on the Swift Building’s main tower, once home to Houston’s Swift & Company meat-packing operations. The project, led by Radom Capital and Triten Real Estate Partners, is slated for completion in spring 2026.
Photo by Stephanie Shirleyr Kelly Campos is a Heights resident and one of HFB’s Community Resource Navigators. This was her first participation in the SNAP Challenge, living on a $6 daily food budget.
Submitted photo
Golden-hour light streams through the exposed framework of the historic Swift & Company plant on Waverly Street, soon to be reborn as The Swift BLDG. The developers are preserving the building’s original brick, concrete, and industrial character while introducing modern amenities.
Photo by Betsy Denson
The crowded hallway of the Oak Forest Foster Closet’s current space
Photo courtesy of bellagreen
Roasted Veggie & Chickpea Bowl: A hearty medley of roasted root vegetables, broccoli, and chickpeas, drizzled with house-made fig balsamic sauce and topped with fresh green onion.
Wild Tunes’ third annual concert raises a record $68,000 for homeless animals
COMMUNITY REPORTS
In late September, nearly 150 animal lovers, musicians, and volunteers gathered for the third annual “Melodies of Gratitude” concert in the Height, raising funds and awareness for BARC Animal Shelter & Adoptions and Special Pals. Hosted by Wild Tunes, a Houston-based national nonprofit founded by 10-year-old Yuvaanh “Yuvi” Agarwal to soothe shelter animals through live music, the concert raised over $68,000 to support more than 23,000 homeless animals.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our volunteers, performers, donors, and business partners. As we celebrate our third annual concert, it’s inspiring to see how music and kindness continue to unite to brighten the lives of both people and animals,” said Priyanka Agarwal, Yuvi’s mom and executive director of Wild Tunes.
The proceeds from the concert will support BARC and
COMMUNITY REPORTS
This October, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) encourages community members to take charge of their health by focusing on early detection and prevention.
To promote early detection, HCPH is offering free breast cancer screenings throughout the month. Screenings will be available at various HCPH Health Services locations, including the Humble, Southeast, and Antoine clinics, the East and Northeast Harris County Precinct 2 Access2Health Smart Pods™, and the mobile clinic in Cypress Station. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer remains the second most common cancer affecting women in the United States. Breast cancer is a significant
Special Pals’ ongoing operations, specifically for animal care, community outreach, and education. A portion of the proceeds will also go towards Wild Tunes to support its mission of delivering live music to shelter animals.
Thanks to a supporter named Terry (last name withheld), all donations made to Wild Tunes through Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2 will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact of every contribution. Through this match, Terry is honoring the memory of her late husband Kenney and their beloved pups, Tessie “Sweet Girl,” and Little Lyla “Sweetie.” The Houston BARC Foundation has also agreed to match BARC’s portion of donations from the event, helping to care for even more pets. Held at Resurrection MCC Church in Heights, the concert showcased Houston’s eclectic arts scene, featuring Yuvi Agarwal debuting an original piano piece, Kantara that reflects the sentiments of an animal who had been aban-
health concern, affecting one in eight women in the U.S. and 2.3 million women worldwide each year. Black women have a significantly higher breast cancer death rate than white women. Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 50 and older, but younger women can also be affected. While breast cancer is much more common in women, it can affect people of all genders. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 2,710 American men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and around 530 are expected to die from the disease. Unfortunately, a lack of awareness and stigma can be barriers to detection and care for both cisgender and transgender men, as well as non-binary people, some of whom prefer to refer to it as chest cancer. Everyone should know the risk factors and symptoms of breast cancer, regardless of gender. People can show different signs of breast cancer,
With an ad in the Women’s H ealth D irectory
doned. There were also performances by the trio of Sarah McDonner, Emily Tallant, and John Markert, flamenco dancing by Undebel Flamenco, piano by prodigy Paul Joseph Naïve, youth ensemble Soleil Music & Arts, piano by Zayden Lalani, and vocals and guitar by Suzanne Garza, and an original song by Dan DeHart. AJ Santana, Houston-based vocalist and guitarist, was the featured performer. In a heartwarming, immersive tribute— Across the Rainbow Bridge,
and some might not have any symptoms at all. Women should watch for these warning signs:
Changes in the size or shape of the breast
• Pain in any part of the breast
• Nipple discharge that isn’t breast milk (including blood)
• A new lump in the breast or underarm
Men should also be aware of these signs: A lump or swelling in the chest
• Red or flaky skin on the chest
• Dimpling or irritation of the chest skin
Nipple discharge
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area
These symptoms can occur due to other conditions besides cancer. If you notice any symptoms or changes, please consult your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.
Yuvi honored deceased pets from all over the country with another original piece, Shakti. Kara Willis, KIAH-39 reporter and animal advocate, served as the mistress of ceremonies. In addition, Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy gave a few words about the impact of Wild Tunes on the lives of shelter animals residing at the Fort Bend County Animal Shelter. Sonia Soto, director of community engagement for Houston City Council member
Mammograms, which are X-rays of the breast or chest, are the best way to detect breast cancer early. Getting regular mammograms can significantly lower the chance of dying from breast cancer. Clinical breast exams and selfexams can also help find problems early. During October, all HCPH clinics and mobile health teams will offer free clinical breast exams. If the medical provider determines the need for a mammogram, you will receive a referral and one-on-one scheduling support from a patient navigator to schedule your mammogram.
HCPH provides low-cost or free health services to Harris County community members year-round, including checkups, breast exams, and mammogram referrals. Call (832) 927-7350 to schedule your screening and take a step in the fight against breast cancer.
Twila Carter, presented a certificate of appreciation to Yuvi in recognition of his success in creating and growing Wild Tunes.
“As a musician, I feel blessed that I can use my talent to make a difference to thousands of homeless animals. Thank you to all the fellow musicians for adding their incredible energy to the concert and to Houstonians for being here to support us. Our
was to raise funds and awareness about the importance of providing care and comfort to shelter animals awaiting their forever homes through music,” said Yuvi. For more information about Wild Tunes, to learn how you can get involved, or donate visit www.wildtunes.org.
Submitted photo
Kara Willis, emcee, and Yuvi Agarwal, founder of Wild Tunes, at the third annual
“Melodies of Gratitude” concert in the Heights.
Submitted photo
Sonia Soto, on behalf of Council Member Twila Carter’s office, presents a City of Houston proclamation to Wild Tunes Founder Yuvi Agarwal.
THE TELEPHONE – “Hi, Lynn. This is Suzanne Laptop, and I am calling you with an emergency notice. We need to deposit ten thousand dollars in your account from FEMA for damages incurred from Hurricane Harvey. At the tone give the name of your bank, account number and pass word. Again, this is an emer gency and the transaction will expire in twenty-four hours.”
Well, my momma don’t raise no idiots. I can spot a scam at least from across the den, but I do wonder how someone, probably in Albania, got my name and phone number.
THE TOPICS.
On hold for phony advice
Lynn Ashby Columnist
This brought me to thinking about phones – how they have changed just in recent years, their technology, the growing and ever-more sophisticated scams and Albania. OK, skip the Albinos. I have a cell phone but, unlike millions of others, I still have a land line, too. It’s part of a package with Disable Cable that includes my phone, TV cable, computer and dishwasher settings. When the cable goes out, which is weekly if not daily, I still have my cellphone.
I am not alone. Today, 98 percent of adult Americans now own a cellphone of some
Americans spend 4 hours and 30 minutes on their mobile phones, and check their phone 144 times per day. (I found this last statistic hard to believe until I found a second survey which reported 150 times a day.)
Smartphones are especially common among Americans with lower household incomes and with lower levels of formal education. Maybe they spend too much time checking their phones to get a job and go to school.
Motorola developed the first portable cell phone in 1973. It was shaped like a brick and weighed around 2.4 pounds. This brings us to a little back-
ground. Alexander Graham Bell, a Scottish immigrant who somehow went undiscovered by ICE, invented the telephone (and co-founded AT&T), along with the metal detector and probably the Graham cracker. He held 18 patents. On March 10, 1876, Bell spoke to his assistant, Thomas A. Watson, with the first recognizable sentence transmitted by phone: “Mr. Watson come here, I want you.” Just three days earlier, Bell (what a great name for the Father of the Dial Tone) had been granted a patent for his invention. But it wasn’t an instant success. Western Union rejected an offer to buy the rights for $100,000, believing it wasn’t a rival to the telegraph. A decision it later regretted.
When Bell…excuse me, my phone is ringing. “Hi, do you remember last week when we…” I interrupt. “Who is this?” We now segue into phone manners. Do you have people who call you and begin talking with no intro? Bad manners. The caller knows who you are. Possibly where you are. And you know zero about the caller. Perhaps the caller thinks he or she has such a distinctive voice that you will immediately recognize that
Port Pride: The Heritage Society hosts pre‑Fleet Week lecture and reception Oct. 22
The Heritage Society will host a public lecture and reception on Wednesday, Oct. 22, featuring Port Houston Chief Legal Officer Erik Eriksson, part of a series of events recognizing Houston’s maritime heritage and the city’s first U.S. Navy Fleet Week this fall. The evening begins with a wine-and-cheese reception at 6 p.m. at The Heritage Society Museum’s gallery at 1100 Bagby Street.
“We’re proud to offer an evening that celebrates the history that shaped Houston and to join our city in a precelebration of Fleet Week,” said Alison Bell, executive director of The Heritage Society. “Fleet Week will bring sailors and ships to our port and the community together to honor maritime service and the vital role the Port of Houston has played for generations.”
Buffalo Bayou has shaped Houston since before the city’s founding, serving as a vital 52-mile waterway that carried trade goods — from cotton and lumber to livestock — between inland Texas and Galveston Bay. In 1836, the Allen brothers recognized its navigable potential and platted Houston along its banks, setting the stage for steamboats to anchor the young city’s economy. Today, the bayou remains both an ecological treasure and a hub for urban recreation, with trails, parks, and paddle tours honoring its legacy as Houston’s
original lifeline.
As commerce outgrew the bayou’s natural depth, local leaders campaigned for a deep-water channel. In 1911 voters approved bonds that created the Harris County Houston Ship Channel Navigation District, now Port Houston, and by 1914 the dredge TEXAS had opened the channel to large oceangoing vessels. Thousands celebrated its inauguration with a 21-gun salute with President Woodrow Wilson’s remotely-fired cannon christening the port, declaring, “Port of Houston; hither the boats of all nations may come and receive hearty welcome.” More than a century later, this same port will host Houston’s first U.S. Navy Fleet Week, bringing ships, sailors, and community celebrations to the docks from Nov. 5–12, 2025.
“We are honored to stand beside the USS Houston monument, a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience that have long been part of our city’s maritime story,” Bell said. “The monument honors not only the ship and its crew but the ideals they defended — duty, bravery, and the enduring ties between Houston and the sea.”
About the Speaker Erik Eriksson serves as chief legal officer of Port Houston, overseeing legal and records management functions. Prior to joining Port Houston in 2005, Eriksson held increasingly responsible legal and management positions at a
Eriksson has served the community in numerous leadership roles. He has been a director of the Southampton Civic Club since 2003 and served as its president from 2005 to 2008. He is president of the University Place Association and Super Neighborhood. He serves on the executive committee of the Buffalo Bayou Partnership board of directors and on the boards of the Houston International Seafarers’ Centers and Jazz Houston.
A graduate of Columbia University and Harvard Law School, Eriksson is a member of the bar in Texas, California and New York. For ticket information, please see https://www. heritagesociety.org/eveningspeaker-wine-reception-series. Free parking is available at 212 Dallas Street.
person, but unless it’s Robert Kennedy, Jr. or Caller ID tells me, I haven’t a clue. Do not use your iPhone while driving, otherwise your call may end with, “…so after I collected the ransom I…is that a stalled Peterbilt in the AAAG!” It is very annoying to be talking to someone and have that person distracted with a crying baby, a barking dog or a fire in the kitchen.
Which reminds me of a story about Lyndon Johnson. Sen. Evert Dirksen was finally elected minority leader of the Senate. He had always been jealous of LBJ, being majority leader, leaving the Capitol every day in his chauffeur-driven limo with a telephone. So on Dirksen’s first day in his new position, Dirksen calls LBJ and says, “Lyndon, I need to talk to you, so I’m calling you from my car.” Pause. “Excuse me, Ev, but my other phone is ringing.”
“A team player will be with you in a moment, or maybe an hour. Your call is very important to us, so please stand by.”
Then I listen to “The Best of Croatian Polkas” like I’ve got nothing better to do. Being put on hold means the company you are trying to reach
is too cheap to hire enough wage slaves to handle customers’ calls. How long do you get put on hold? The average American spends 13 hours annually waiting on hold for customer service. 0n hold with automated customer service in one lifetime is 43 days. I assume that means 43 24-hour periods. But this is immediate service compared to other waitings:
32 minutes whenever you visit a doctor
28 minutes in security lines when you travel
38 hours each year waiting in traffic those living in big cities, the Houston region springs to mind, wait in traffic more than 50 hours annually The solution is to…wait. My other phone is ringing. Maybe it’s LBJ. “Meester Hashby, dis is Billy Bob callink you…” No doubt you also get calls from someone “callink” to sell you something. The first clue is the call is probably out of Manila or Dacca and it’s not Billy Bob on the other end. The second clue is in the background you can hear 20 others making the same pitch. Of course we have our own homegrown pests. “Hey, I final-
ly reached you. You’re harder to get than my wife’s top shelf in the kitchen. I’m Sergeant Mackerel from the Friends of the Police Association and…” It’s a recording, obviously, and I doubt there really is a Sergeant Mackerel. I get these from these “law enforcement” callers mainly around the holidays, but they are not limited to then.
All of this is not a whine, just an observation. Actually, the first phone call was not, “Mr. Watson come here, I want you.” It was “Watson, I am calling you with an emergency notice. I need to deposit ten thousand dollars in your account.”
Ashby is staying put 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.
SUDOKU
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Mayor John Whitmire and the City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) unveiled the City’s ongoing investment in modern, reliable equipment today with the addition of 16 new recycling side loaders, one grappler, three rear loaders, and five tractor trailers to the collection fleet. Nine recycling trucks had already been added in August, bringing the total to 25.
The new vehicles expand the department’s ability to provide timely, dependable service and reduce maintenance downtime, according to an Oct. 14 press release. This
latest delivery brings the city closer to fulfilling the mayor’s commitment to place 50 new solid waste vehicles into service by the end of October.
Whitmire also announced that the city is working with outside contractors to assist with heavy trash collection and will conduct citywide cleanup sweeps.
“I am excited this morning because we’re witnessing a bold initiative that the City of Houston has never carried out. By the end of this month, we will have 50 new solid waste trucks on the streets of Houston,” said Mayor Whitmire. “Reliable service starts with reliable equipment. We’re investing in tools that
help our employees do their jobs safely and efficiently while ensuring Houstonians get the consistent service they deserve.”
“These new trucks represent real progress in how we serve our residents,” said Larius Hassen, director of Solid Waste Management. “Every vehicle we add strengthens our operations, supports our crews, and moves us closer to on-time collection.”
The new trucks were left unpainted and in their original factory color, saving approximately $3,000 per vehicle. The SWMD vehicles were immediately deployed for collection service following the announcement.
HAR local data by zip code: Houston housing market maintains balance in September
Home sales climb for the fifth consecutive month as prices
moderate
The Greater Houston housing market moved toward a more balanced position in September. Steady demand, easing prices and a robust supply of homes are helping the market settle into a more sustainable rhythm for both buyers and sellers.
According to the Houston Association of Realtors' September 2025 Housing Market Update, single-family home sales rose 5.3 percent year-over-year. A total of 7,399 homes were sold compared to 7,025 last year. Pending sales, newly signed purchase contracts, also remained strong, signaling underlying market confidence from buyers.
Home prices reached their lowest levels since February. The median home price was $327,000, which is 2.1 percent less than last year’s figure. The average price inched up 2.0 percent to $421,655, largely due to a rise in luxury home sales in September.
Homes priced from $250,000 to $499,999, which accounted for more than 55 percent of all September sales, experienced a 1.3 percent decline in activity compared to the same time last year. All other price ranges recorded year-over-year sales growth. Inventory remains at healthy levels across the Houston area.
STAFF REPORTS
October 18, 2025
CHRISTUS FOUNDATION FOR HEALTHCARE – 21ST ANNUAL NUN
RUN WHAT: Blue Knights–escorted 40-mile motorcycle ride benefiting CHRISTUS School Clinics; finish-line party at Topwater Grill.
WHERE: Start: Villa de Matel, 6510 Lawndale; Finish: Topwater Grill, 815 Avenue O, San Leon
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 11; start 8 a.m.
COST: $40 per rider (public welcome)
INFO: christusfoundation.org
HOUSTON PETS ALIVE! –
BARKTOBERFEST (PRESENTED BY PACIFICO)
WHAT: Free family- and pet-friendly fall celebration with live music by The Slags, vendor booths, food trucks, photobooth, pumpkin patch and decorating, stein-holding and mechanical bull contests, raffles, silent auction, and a commemorative glass with one free beer pour. Pet costume contests at 2:30, 3:30, 4:30, and 5:30 p.m. Adopt a pet or leave a tribute photo at the Furever Remembered Ofrenda.
WHERE: The Powder Keg, 1300 Brittmoore Rd., Houston, 77043
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 11, 2–6 p.m.
COST: Free admission; activity tickets available
INFO: houstonpetsalive.org/barktoberfest
OCTOBER 14, 2025
AARP CHAPTER 1265 – OCTOBER
MEETING: “DRAWING OUTSIDE OLD
LINES”
WHAT: Northwest Houston AARP Chapter 1265 hosts its October meeting with business updates, committee reports, refreshments, and a presentation on recent congressional district changes and upcoming elections. Attendees may bring pet donations for Friends4Life Animal Shelter.
WHERE: Candlelight Park Community Room, 1520 Candlelight Ln. (at Oak Forest Dr.), Houston, 77018
WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 14, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
COST: Free INFO: Free parking in lot west of building
ST. MARTIN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH –JOY OF GIVING MARKET
WHAT: One of Houston’s largest holiday markets with 80+ vendors; silent auction; gourmet take-out from Café St. Martin’s.
WHERE: St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, Woodway at Sage, Houston
WHEN: Tuesday–Thursday, Oct. 14–16; Premier Party Oct. 14, 4–8 p.m. ($25); Wed. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Thu. 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
COST: $25 for Premier Party; free Wed.–Thu.
INFO: stmartinsepiscopal.org
OCTOBER 15, 2025
DINING FOR DONOVAN
WHAT: Four-course dinner featuring Bludorn, Coltivare, La Lucha, and Superica; supports Reimagine Donovan Park Campaign.
WHERE: The Historic Houston Heights Fire Station, 107 W. 12th St., Houston, 77008
Active listings are still higher than this time last year, though month-to-month growth has begun to flatten. Months of inventory dipped slightly from August as a result of increased sales activity.
“The past few months have brought lower mortgage rates, and it has helped boost buyer confidence,” said HAR Chair Shae Cottar with LPT Realty. “We are mindful that economic uncertainty and the current government shutdown could impact the market in the weeks ahead—particularly since new National Flood Insurance Program policies cannot be issued right now. Even so, I believe the market is heading into the final months of 2025 on more balanced footing.”
Housing Market Overview
In September, property sales across the Greater Houston area continued to outpace 2024 levels. Total sales increased 5.0 percent year-over-year, with 8,686 properties sold. The uptick in transactions was matched by a 6.8 percent rise in total dollar volume, which exceeded $3.5 billion in September.
Active listings—the total number of available properties— were 24.7 percent higher than last year with 59,876 units.
Active listings, or the total number of available properties,
Save the Date!
WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 6–9:30 p.m.
COST: $275 (drinks & gratuity included; service charge not included) TICKETS: e.givesmart.com/events/ KxL
OCTOBER 18, 2025
TIMBERGROVE SPORTS ASSOCIATION – BALL FOR ALL
WHAT: Baseball game pairing special needs athletes with TSA buddies; national anthem, trophies, bake sale, coffee, donuts, hat bar. Benefits Steel Magnolia Moms.
SPACE CENTER HOUSTON – GALAXY FRIGHTS (WEEKEND ONE)
WHAT: Spooky space-themed fun with astronaut presentations, STEM activities, chef chats; optional Family Overnight (registration required).
WHERE: Space Center Houston, 1601 NASA Parkway, Houston, 77058
WHEN: Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 18–19, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Family Overnight Sat., Oct. 18 COST: Included with general admission; Overnight $75.95/person INFO: spacecenter.org/events
OCTOBER 19, 2025
COLOR FACTORY – TRICK-OR-TREAT
NIGHT: “NO FRIGHTS, JUST DELIGHT!”
WHAT: Family-friendly Halloween celebration featuring colorful trick-ortreat stations throughout the immersive art experience. Enjoy treats, photo ops, scavenger hunts, and the return of Haunted Hues—a sweet, spooky art installation. Costumes
encouraged.
WHERE: Color Factory, 3303 Kirby Dr., Houston, 77098
WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 19, 4–6 p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $29
INFO: colorfactory.co/houston
THE WOMEN’S FUND – 15TH
ANNUAL ROCKIN’ RESILIENCY
LUNCHEON
WHAT: Luncheon with keynote Khori Dastoor (HGO), educational session, silent auction, and awards; benefits health education for women and girls.
WHERE: Royal Sonesta Hotel, 2222 West Loop South, Houston, 77027
WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 19, 10:30 a.m.–2
p.m.
COST: Tickets start at $300 INFO: thewomensfund.org
OCTOBER 20–24, 2025
AGRILIFE EXTENSION – BACKYARD
CHICKEN SEMINAR SERIES
WHAT: Five-day 11 a.m. webinar series on backyard flock management, breeds, nutrition, food safety, health, and environment.
WHERE: Online webinar
WHEN: Monday–Friday, Oct. 20–24, 11 a.m. daily
COST: Free INFO: tx.ag/ BackyardChickenSeries25
OCTOBER 23, 2025
TARGET HUNGER – 4TH ANNUAL
SUNSET SOCIAL
WHAT: Golf and pickleball tourneys, live entertainment, kid zone, gourmet dining, and silent auction supporting Target Hunger.
WHERE: East River 9, Houston
WHEN: Thursday, Oct. 23
COST: Ticketed INFO: targethunger.org
OCTOBER 25, 2025
PARK TO PORT BIKE RIDE – 11TH
ANNUAL
WHAT: 20-mile round-trip ride from Hermann Park to Mason Park along Bayou Greenway; turn-around and post-ride parties; not a race.
WHERE: Start/finish: Hermann Park Bayou Parkland WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 25 (time TBA) COST: $45 (ages 10–99) INFO: hermannpark.org/event/parkto-port-bike-ride
HOUSTON CHAMBER CHOIR – ALL
GOD’S CREATURES
WHAT: Works inspired by the animal kingdom, incl. Britten’s Rejoice in the Lamb and world premiere of Houston Seasons – Autumn.
WHERE: South Main Baptist Church, 4100 Main St., Houston, 77002
WHAT: Family festival with haunted house, petting zoo, laser tag, train ride, bounce house, “Truck or Treat,” Kona Ice, and more.
WHERE: St. Ambrose School, 4213 Mangum Rd., Houston, 77092
WHEN: Friday, Oct. 31, 3:30–7:30 p.m.
COST: Not listed
NOVEMBER 3, 2025
RECIPE FOR SUCCESS – DELICIOUS ALCHEMY 20TH ANNIVERSARY BANQUET
WHAT: Exclusive ten-chef banquet at Hope Farms celebrating 20 years of Recipe for Success and honoring founders Gracie and Bob Cavnar. Features cocktails in the Chef’s Garden and seated dinner with floral design from on-site blooms. WHERE: Hope Farms, Houston WHEN: Monday, Nov. 3 (evening) COST: Limited seating; ticketed (premium tables and sponsorships available) INFO: recipe4success.org | hopefarmhtx.org
NOVEMBER 8, 2025
PERIWINKLE WALK IN THE PARK (PRESENTED BY MOGAS, A FLOWSERVE COMPANY)
WHAT: Family-friendly 5K walk benefiting The Periwinkle Foundation’s programs for pediatric cancer patients at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center. Post-walk food, music, and prizes. WHERE: Evelyn’s Park, 4400 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, 77401
WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 8; registration 8 a.m.; walk 9 a.m.–noon
COST: Minimum $100 fundraising goal includes 2025 event T-shirt
rose 31.1 percent to 61,144 units, which surpasses the previous record set in June of this year.
Single-Family Homes Update, Citywide
The Houston housing market recorded its fifth consecutive month of home sales growth in September on a year-over-year basis. A total of 7,399 single-family homes were sold compared to 7,025 last year. Pending transactions also reflected continued strength in buyer demand, rising 11.2 percent year-over-year. Based on declining average monthly 30-year fixed-rate conventional mortgage rates as reported by Freddy Mac, when combined with the slip in median price, monthly principal and interest payments (P&I) necessary to buy the median priced home (assuming 20 percent down) totaled $1,627.77. Thus, the typical September P&I payment was $143.87, $180.05, $120.60, and $82.07 less than May, June, July and August this year, respectfully.
The median home price declined 2.1 percent to $327,000, while the average price rose 2.0 percent to $421,655. The average price per square foot was $175, slightly below the $177 recorded in September 2024. The average list-to-sale price ratio edged down to 93.0 percent, which is the lowest since January 2023.
Broken out by housing segments, single-family home sales in the Greater Houston area performed as follows:
$1M and above: increased 27.3 percent (331 transactions)
HAR also breaks out sales figures for existing single-family homes. In September, existing home sales
Houston’s Heights is a haven for gardeners, where tending the earth feels like both creation and surrender.
At Archway Gallery, 2305 Dunlavy, Margaret Miller’s The Gardener’s Mistress captures this delicate dance in a stunning collection of oil paintings on birch panels, on view from Nov. 1 to Dec. 4, 2025.
This Lazybrook resident invites Houstonians to the opening reception on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 5-8 p.m., with an Artist Talk at 6:30 p.m. Complimentary valet parking and light refreshments set the stage for a vibrant evening.
Through expressive palette knife work and vibrant color, the artist examines the question: “Who is the gardener?”
Her answer, the Earth itself, shapes this body of work that celebrates humanity’s role both as tenders and as subjects of nature’s cycles.
Drawing from personal experiences in gardens, Miller’s paintings capture the delicate balance between vulnerability and strength, adventure, and fragility, which defines humanity’s connection to Earth. Flowers bloom across her canvases not merely as botanical subjects, but as vessels for memory and relationship.
Her palette moves from contemplative greens to explosive bursts of pink, blue, yellow, and red, creating compositions that range from quiet, hidden garden corners to wild expressions of natural abundance.
“The exhibition’s title evokes the layered complexity of humanity’s relationship with Earth, simultaneously lovers and subjects of its power,” Miller says. Surrendering to forces beyond human control, she finds beauty in chaos and meaning in the interconnectedness of all living things.
Her paintings invite viewers to rejuvenate their own experiences with gardens and nature and explore what it means to be both cared for and caring within Earth’s eternal garden. This resonates deeply with the
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Harris County voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, for the General and Special Elections, which include contests for local, state, and federal offices as well as 17 proposed Texas constitutional amendments. Early voting runs October 20–31, and ballots will include key races for the City of Houston, Houston ISD, Houston Community College, and numerous municipal utility districts across the
Mitch cohen
Art Columnist
artvalet@gmail.com
Heights’ gardening community, where nature feels like a living collaborator.
Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Miller’s passion for art took root during childhood summers spent exploring the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Encouraged by her parents, she painted through her youth and later graduated from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.
While thriving for 30 years as ExxonMobil’s Multimedia Team Lead, she never stopped creating, studying under renowned artists like Kevin Macpherson, David Shevlino, and Carol Marine. A decadelong member of Archway Gallery, Miller brings a unique perspective to Houston’s art scene, blending technical skill with emotional depth.
Adding a delicious twist, Archway hosts Alchemy of the Garden on Nov. 15, a 5-course wine dinner inspired by Miller’s paintings. Step into an evening where culinary artistry and visual storytelling intertwine.
Guided by Chef Lena Le of Lena’s Asian Kitchen, winner of Chopped Truffle edition, the menu draws on her Vietnamese heritage, her Houston home, and her deep love of Mexican flavors. Each dish is a reflection of “homes”, the one she was born into and the one she has embraced.
Born and raised in Vietnam, Lena’s fondest food memories are embedded in her grandma’s cooking methods, where she used whatever was available in her garden, and on her farm, like lotus and banana leaves which will be incorporated in this dinner.
The journey begins with
playful bites, DIY bánh mì grazing boards, delicate eggrolls, and dumplings, before moving into five artfully paired courses. Expect bright lotus and pomelo, squash blossoms folded into tortillas, seabass wrapped in banana leaf, slowbraised pork ribs with pipián rojo, and a final sweet note of avocado oil cake crowned with white chocolate frosting.
Every course is thoughtfully paired with wines from around the world, crisp rosé, elegant Pouilly-Fumé, Bandol Blanc, bold reds, and sparkling Cava, each sip echoing the textures and colors of Miller’s evocative garden.
An evening of food, wine, and art, where culture, memory, and imagination bloom together. Tickets are $175, with a portion supporting Lena’s Foundation, which feeds domestic abuse and crisis survivors. Seats are limited, reserve at ArchwayGallery.com.
Miller’s paintings and Le’s culinary artistry make The Gardener’s Mistress a celebration of nature’s power and humanity’s role within it. Visit Archway to step into this lush, layered world where art and earth intertwine.
Since 1976, Archway Gallery, one of Houston’s oldest artist-run galleries, has showcased fine art at 2305 Dunlavy. Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and Sunday, 1–5 p.m., it features affordable sculpture, pottery, painting, and photography by 30+ artist members. Meet an artist onsite, enjoy monthly exhibitions, and attend opening receptions the first Saturday of each month, 5–8 p.m. For more, visit ArchwayGallery. com or call (713) 522-2409.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Margaret Miller standing next to her A Delicate Balance, a 30 x 30 oil painting, on view at The Gardener’s
Mistress at Archway Gallery, Nov. 1
1. The First Blush, a 60 x 40 oil painting by Margaret Miller, on view at The Gardener’s Mistress at Archway Gallery, Nov. 1.
2. A Delicate Balance, a 30 x 30 oil painting by Margaret Miller, on view at The Gardener’s Mistress at Archway Gallery, Nov. 1.
3. Chef Lena Le of Lena’s
Kitchen, featured in the Alchemy of the Garden dinner at Archway Gallery, Nov. 15.
