A federal jury has delivered a landmark $13 million verdict to the family of Charles Payne Sr., a 75-year-old father and grandfather killed when a speeding Houston Police Department officer slammed into his car on North Shepherd Drive in December 2021. The verdict— issued in the Southern District of Texas—finds the City of
Houston liable for Payne’s death, citing unconstitutional policies and long-standing failures in training and supervision that allowed dangerous driving practices to go unchecked.
The decision marks a pivotal moment in a case that has drawn intense scrutiny throughout the Heights, Garden Oaks, and Oak Forest communities, where the fatal crash occurred.
A Preventable Tragedy Payne was driving home from church on Dec. 26, 2021, when Officer Christopher Cabrera—who was not responding to an emergency call and had no lights or sirens activated—sped northbound along the 4600 block of North Shepherd at nearly 70 mph in a 35 mph zone. Payne attempted to make a left turn
onto Thornton Road and never saw the fast-approaching cruiser. He died hours later at a hospital.
HPD initially released few details, and the officer was placed on paid administrative leave pending investigation.
Pattern of Dangerous
Driving
During the recent federal trial, Payne family attorneys
By BETSY DENSON
The Leader News Contributor
If you’ve noticed more armadillos scuttling through the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center lately, you’re not alone. Tiffany Ritter, Education Director at the Houston Arboretum, confirms that staff and visitors alike have observed a notable increase in armadillo sightings over the past several years. This year brought particularly encouraging signs: three different groups of baby armadillos, called pups, which Ritter says “is not that common.”
A Story of Resilience
While the Arboretum doesn’t conduct official population monitoring, Ritter attributes the apparent rebound to a period of relative habitat stability following years of environmental stress
2013. Combined with sustained master plan construction, conditions were less than ideal for the sensitive animals, who prefer quieter surroundings. But it was the back-to-back floods of 2016 and 2017, including Hurricane Harvey, that likely impacted the population most severely.
“They really like to nest along streams, so all along the bayou, all along our ravine,” Ritter said. There’s a high probability that with all of the floods we experienced back-to-back, there was maybe even a high mortality.”
Since 2020, however, conditions have been relatively stable, giving the population time to bounce back.
and construction disruption.
The severe 2011 drought resulted in the loss of 55% of the Arboretum’s tree canopy, leading to extensive dead timber removal throughout 2012 and
When to Spot Them
Though armadillos are technically nocturnal with crepuscular tendencies,
presented evidence that HPD routinely allowed officers to drive more than 20 mph over posted speed limits even when not responding to emergencies. This unofficial practice, the jury concluded, created unacceptable risks to the public and represented deliberate indifference on the City’s part. The jury determined that
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
Houston has introduced a first-of-itskind firearm-injury dashboard—integrating hospital trauma data with police, EMS, and medical examiner records—in an effort to confront rising accidental shootings involving children and young adults.
Council Member Abbie Kamin unveiled SAFEWatch Houston, the nation’s first dashboard to combine Level I trauma center clinical data with emergency response systems. While overall gunrelated trauma visits have fallen since 2021, the new tool reveals a troubling countertrend: unintentional shootings among Houstonians ages 0–24 are increasing.
The data underscores the concern. In 2024, Houston’s three Level I trauma centers treated 991 firearm-related injuries. Of the 203 unintentional injuries, about half—101 cases—involved children and young adults. Through June 2025, hospitals recorded 56 trauma visits for victims under age 25, meaning that “on average, every week in Houston, a child or young adult arrives at an emergency room because of an accidental shooting.”
“Firearm injuries are preventable. I’m sick and tired of seeing headline after headline, when there is something we can all be doing to solve this very real public health crisis,” Kamin said. She spearheaded the creation of the dashboard, securing funding and coordinating the multi-agency collaboration.
By STEPHANIE SHIRLEY The Leader News Contributor
Federal Reserve Banks have been around since 1914 and are empowered to estimate currency demand, distribute, and regulate according to policy. There are 12 primary Federal Reserve banks across the U.S.
Paso to assist in the endeavor.
The Houston Branch was originally located downtown. In late 2005, they moved into the iconic structure at 1801 Allen Parkway, between south Heights and downtown. The 280,000-square-foot building occupies 9 acres, previously the site of Jefferson Davis Hospital. As with all reserve bank buildings, it was self-funded and constructed at a cost of $95 million and no taxpayer dollars were used to build the facility.
The Dallas Fed introduced its Global
The Dallas Fed represents and supports the 11th Federal District. The district is comprised of all of Texas, northern Louisiana, and southern New Mexico. Additionally, the Dallas Fed has branches located in Houston, San Antonio and El
Photo
Photo by Stephen Benigno, courtesy of Houston Arboretum A baby armadillo at Houston Arboretum; the armored animals have made a comeback in recent years.
meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk, visitors report seeing them throughout the day. Ritter says this behavior is normal and depends on weather conditions.
“Anytime after about three o’clock is a good time to go armadillo watching,” she said.
In summer, hot and dry conditions force insects deeper underground, requiring armadillos to spend more daylight hours foraging. In winter, the cold keeps them burrowed overnight, so they emerge during warmer daytime hours to search for food.
The species found at the Arboretum is the Mexican long-nosed armadillo, recently reclassified from the broader nine-banded armadillo designation. These creatures have remarkable hearing and smell — they can detect insects six inches underground — but very poor eyesight.
One of their most fascinating traits: armadillos always give birth to identical quadruplets, either four boys or four girls.
How to Be a Good Neighbor
For visitors hoping to observe these armored mammals, Ritter emphasizes one critical rule: keep dogs on short leashes.
“Very sad to say, we found two different armadillos this past spring and summer where it was obvious that they
had been attacked by a dog,” she said. Even extendable leashes can spell disaster, as attacks happen quickly. Observers should maintain distance, take photos from afar, and never attempt to touch or pick up armadillos. While they can carry leprosy, transmission requires eating their flesh — simply touching them poses minimal risk to people with healthy immune systems.
Ecosystem Engineers
Beyond their charm, armadillos play an important role in the Arboretum’s ecosystem. They consume large quantities of insects and help keep soil loose and healthy through their burrowing, especially in the sandy soils along stream corridors.
“If you have gardens, they may be digging up your mulch, but they are eating the pests that you don’t like,” Ritter noted.
For residents interested in tracking armadillo sightings, Ritter suggests using iNaturalist.org, a community science website where observations from individuals worldwide help scientists monitor changes in wildlife populations and behavior patterns.
For now, these prehistoriclooking animals appear to be thriving, much to the delight of trail-goers who pause to watch them dig and snuffle along the paths.
The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is located at 4501 Woodway Drive in Memorial Park.
these systemic lapses—and not just Cabrera’s individual actions—directly caused Payne’s death and violated his Fourteenth Amendment right to life.
A Long Road to Trial
The verdict comes nearly eight months after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled the Payne family could proceed with its civil claims. The City of Houston had attempted to dismiss the case by asserting sovereign immunity, arguing Cabrera was reacting to an emergency.
The appellate court disagreed. Even if Cabrera had been responding to an emergency, it ruled, his excessive speed and lack of emergency signals constituted reckless conduct under state law.
“This decision protects everyone who shares the road,” McCathern attorney James E. Sherry said at the time. “A badge does not shield someone from accountability when their actions result in preventable death.”
Jury’s Message: Accountability Matters
The $13 million award includes more than $7.3 million to Payne’s widow, Harriet, for loss of companionship, pecuniary loss, and mental an-
guish. Substantial damages were also awarded to each of Payne’s seven children.
The family was represented by a legal team from McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans; the Law Office of Ben Crump; and co-litigator Paul Grinke.
“This verdict is not just about what happened to Charles Payne—it’s about preventing it from ever happening again,” said attorney Carl L. Evans Jr. in a media release. “The jury sent a clear message that no city is above accountability when its policies put the lives of the people it serves in danger.”
Payne, described by relatives as a gentle presence deeply rooted in his faith and family, left behind a grieving widow, seven children, and 13 grandchildren. His death shook his community—and galvanized ongoing conversations about public safety on high-traffic corridors like North Shepherd.
While the verdict represents a major step toward closure for the Payne family, it also calls renewed attention to HPD policies governing officer driving, emergency response, and accountability. The City may appeal the ruling.
COMMUNITY REPORTS
With property tax statements hitting mailboxes in November, property owners are encouraged to sign up for a MyHarrisCountyTax account that makes managing and paying property taxes easier and more convenient.
Harris County Tax AssessorCollector Annette Ramirez is excited to announce the launch of MyHarrisCountyTax, a new online service from the Harris County Tax Office that makes managing and paying property taxes easy, clear and convenient. With 2025 property tax statements hitting mailboxes this November, taxpayers can sign up and create an account on MyHarrisCountyTax.com today. As part of Assessor Ramirez’s broader effort to modernize and improve Tax Office services, MyHarrisCountyTax is a secure, user-friendly platform that offers a range of helpful features, including bill reminders, par-
Perspectives series nearly a
decade ago, as a way to promote a better understanding of the economic landscape.
The series is a platform that educates and connects the community, by sharing moderated conversations with significant thought leaders in the areas of local and national policy, academia and business. These live events were alternated between different cities in the district until the pandemic upended plans, schedules, and delivery mediums. Forums moved to virtual platforms. Notable past speakers, including Janet Yellen, Jerome Powell and Alan Greenspan merit live participation and interaction. Fortunately, the live conversations returned in 2025 and the latest Houston event did not disappoint.
On Nov. 18, the Houston Branch of the Dallas Fed hosted an event sharing the state of our community’s economic condition. The occasion featured Gretchen Watkins, former president of Shell USA. Her extensive energy and economic industry experience, both nationally and internationally, brought a unique perspective. She is currently the chair of the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP).
Moderating the conversation was Steve Kean, President and CEO of the GHP. He opened by saying, “The Greater Houston Partnership is non-partisan, so that’s enabled us to bring people together from all of our leading institutions in the city to work on big problems, big challenges, big opportunities.” The biggest challenge is connecting people and opportunity, he said. Their other big focus is in resilience and he said he’s proudly works alongside Watkins on both of these issues.
“I’m an engineer. I started as a facilities engineer working in New Orleans,” Watkins said. “The first five years of my career, I spent quite a bit of time offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. I’m absolutely dating myself by saying this was predeep water, so this was all the shallow shelf stuff, but it was a great way to start a career. I
tial payments, scheduled payments, and multi-account management — all aimed at providing greater flexibility and peace of mind.
“We want to make paying property taxes as easy as possible for Harris County homeowners and businesses,” said Tax Office Assessor Annette Ramirez.” MyHarrisCountyTax empowers taxpayers with flexible payment options and helpful tools to manage and pay their property taxes. With MyHarrisCountyTax, everyone can find a way to pay that works for them.”
Property taxes for 2025 are due by Jan. 31, 2026. Residents are encouraged to visit MyHarrisCountyTax.com to set up an account. If property owners have questions about their property taxes—they can call the Harris County Tax Office at 713-274-8000, email tax. office@hctx.net, or visit one of the Tax Office’s branch locations that can be found at hctax.net.
Key features of MyHarrisCountyTax include:
Secure Payment Storage: Save payment methods for faster checkouts.
• Bilingual Accessibility: Available in both English and Spanish.
• Payment History Access: View past payments anytime. Reminders & Notifications: Receive alerts before due dates to avoid missed payments and reduce delinquency. Multi-Account Management: Conveniently manage up to 300 property tax accounts in one place.
Looking Ahead In early 2026, MyHarrisCountyTax will introduce a new prepayment plan option that will allow homeowners and business owners to make monthly automatic prepayments toward their 2026 property taxes. This initiative aims to ease the financial burden of a lump-sum tax bill by spreading payments throughout the year. Other features that will be added early next year include the ability to schedule payments.
learned a ton and I really fell in love with an industry that I feel is really one that does great things for the world in many ways. And so it’s been a real honor to have worked for some absolutely great and amazing companies, to work with outstanding people. It’s been a delight to be involved in the Energy Advisory Council with the Fed and in many other ways in the city of Houston and beyond.”
Kean asked Watkins how, from her perspective as GHP Chair, she felt the city was doing. Without hesitation, her response was resoundingly positive.
“The Houston metro is the youngest metro of the ten largest in this country and we have about 25% of our population under the age of 20-25,” she said. “So, we have a really young community here and that says a lot for the future of the city. We’ve also grown that population by about 4% over the last few years, while we’ve seen other cities actually contract. For example, in Chicago, we’ve seen the young demographic contract.
We’re the second strongest job growth market, second only to Dallas. Two big Texas cities are responsible for creating the most jobs. We’re also the top export region in the whole country. Last year, we exported $181 billion worth of goods through the Port of Houston. And if you add up the amount of export from New York and LA, we have done more here than those two combined. And New York and LA are numbers two and number three.”
Watkins said the county has continued securing major investments in recent months, including what he described as the most significant one: a $6.5 billion commitment from Lilly Pharmaceuticals to build a new manufacturing plant. Eli Lilly is also partnering with Nvidia to build the most powerful Artificial Intelligence (AI) ‘supercomputer’ and Apple and Foxconn will be partnering on the facilities.
Apple, Nvidia, and Foxconn are key technology companies with strong, interconnected relationships between manufacturing and the AI supply chains, with Foxconn serving as the primary production partner for both.
Watkins said that this will bring a wealth of opportunity and money into the city and county. She is convinced it’s positioning the community for long-term success.
“I love the fact that we’re not just talking about workforce development, but we’re also talking about how developing our workforce and developing our talent actually
enables economic mobility. It enables people to move up the economic value chain in their life,” Watkins said, adding, “We have data that shows that after six years, of the kids graduating from Houston public schools, 20% or less are making a living wage. If that’s not a burning platform, I don’t know what is.”
The partnership is leading, but needs the business community to help connect the dots between the things kids are learning in high school and the educational opportunities afterwards, whether certification or higher education and how it leads to a healthy job market, where skills will be utilized. GHP’s launching a Connectivity Project, bringing together whole communities; academics, students and businesses to provide pathways between training and opportunity. As an example, Kean shared that with power demand, including that of AI, the country won’t have enough electricians. It is estimated that 400,000 new electricians will be needed in the U.S. by 2031 and supply won’t meet demand. Even though the electrical workers may not get a four-year degree, the Connectivity Project will help promote training, providing for time and grade, as electrical services increase in demand. Wages will increase and new businesses will be started, as result of that pathway. To learn more about the Global Perspectives Series or the GHP, visit dallasfed. org/research/perspectives or houston.org.
PAYNE, from P. 1
FED, from P. 1
Photo by Girish Tembe, courtesy of Houston Arboretum Armadillos eat insects and, through their burrowing, keep soil aerated and healthy.
Photos by Stephanie Shirley
On Nov. 18, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership and Chair Gretchen Watkins shared their perspectives on the state of the community.
Watkins shared her perspectives with more than 100 attendees.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: A Common Issue Not Commonly Discussed
If you suffer from urinary incontinence, you’re not alone. One in 5 women will have surgery for prolapse and incontinence by 2050, according to a recent study.
Women who experience urinary leakage or vaginal bulge symptoms may assume these problems are a normal part of aging, so they wait to seek medical help. “Women with pelvic floor disorders often delay seeking care due to embarrassment and lack of awareness of options for treatment” said Dr. Emily Rutledge, a urogynecologist with Houston Methodist Hospital.
It’s also important to remember that pelvic floor disorders can happen at any age. For example, women in their 20s or 30s may experience problems with bladder leakage after childbirth.
“It’s common for women of different ages to have stress
urinary incontinence or leakage with coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercise. Many women may also seek advice for prolapse or overactive bladder. Regardless of age, pelvic floor disorders can se-
verely impact their quality of life,” Dr. Rutledge said.
What Causes Bladder Issues?
Pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue can become
weak due to childbirth, surgery, or aging, and that weakness can cause bladder and bowel control problems.
Weak pelvic floor muscles can also cause vaginal prolapse, meaning the uterus, bladder, or rectum drops or bulges into the vagina. Moderate to severe bulging may cause a pulling or a heavy feeling in the pelvis, trouble urinating or moving bowels, and lower back pain. The three most common pelvic floor disorders — urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence and vaginal prolapse — can all be treated by various methods.
Take Control With Treatment
The following treatment options can provide relief for pelvic floor disorders: Kegel exercises may help strengthen pelvic floor muscles and relieve symptoms. If you need some guidance,
ask your doctor about physical therapy programs for pelvic floor strengthening.
• Pelvic floor physical therapy restores muscle function and skeletal misalignment, which contributes to bladder and bowel control loss, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain. A physical therapist with specialized training in pelvic floor health can address the muscle or nerve problems that often cause or worsen pelvic floor disorders.
• Nonsurgical options include inserting a pessary (a silicon device) into the vagina to support the pelvic organs.
Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) or robotic surgery may be recommended depending on the severity of prolapse and other factors. Pelvic floor reconstruction surgery is
a type of surgery that repairs weakened pelvic floor tissues by strengthening the supporting ligaments around the pelvic organs. If you have pelvic floor issues, you’re not alone, and there’s no need to be embarrassed or hide how you’re feeling. “Dealing with pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence can be bothersome, and many women are relieved to learn there are so many minimally invasive treatment options available,” Dr. Rutledge said.
Schedule an
Appointment
Houston Methodist Center for Restorative Pelvic Medicine experts offer a variety of treatment options that can improve your quality of life — and get you back to feeling your best. Visit houstonmethodist.org/ crpm or call 713.441.9229 to schedule an appointment.
HOUSTON METHODIST
LEADING
CARE where you need us
Convenient, easy-to-access locations for primary, specialty and emergency care
To find a location, visit houstonmethodist.org/central or call 713.790.3333.
Precinct One deputies hit the streets to bring holiday joy to 1,000 kids
STAFF REPORTS
Harris County Precinct One deputies hit the streets Tuesday to collect toys and donations for their annual holiday drive, an effort aimed at making the season brighter for nearly 1,000 local children. Deputies set up along the 3100 block of Ella Blvd., working in partnership with Dr. Gleem Car Wash and Lube Center, where community members stopped by with everything from small gifts to large contributions.
“This is what the holiday season is really all about,”
GUN, from P. 1
She praised the partners behind the project, adding, “When dealing with a public health issue, like firearm injuries, data enables us to see exactly what is happening and where—informing what we need to do to meaningfully curb it. Houston is proving you don’t have to choose between respecting gun rights and protecting children. With the right tools and the courage to act, we can save lives without taking sides.”
SAFEWatch is publicly available at HoustonHealth. org/safewatch. Kamin emphasized the behind-the-scenes work that made it possible: “It is often our healthcare workers who are our unsung heroes. None of this would have been possible without the incredible and talented work of our Houston Health Department employees.”
A broader picture of gun injuries
While many cities maintain crime-based dashboards, SAFEWatch presents a more comprehensive view of firearm injuries, including intent (unintentional, assault, selfharm), demographics, time and location patterns, and survival outcomes. According to the dashboard’s data, one in five firearm injuries treated at Houston trauma centers in 2024 were unintentional— cases that may never appear in police reports but represent preventable harm.
“On average, every week in Houston, a child is rushed to a trauma center because of an accidental shooting. These aren’t crimes—they’re
Constable Alan Rosen said.
“Let’s help the children.” The children benefiting from the drive had been identified at two dozen area schools as being in need, each submitting a holiday wish list that deputies hoped to help fulfill with the public’s support. Anyone who donated at least $25 received a complimentary car wash from Dr. Gleem as part of the event. The toy drive was organized by the Office of Harris County Constable Precinct One and the Harris County Precinct One Foundation. By the end of the day, Rosen
said the response had been overwhelming. “Hundreds of children will have a bit more happiness this holiday season thanks to the generosity of so many people who have come out today. It has been inspiring,” he said. “Once again, Houstonians are out in force to help those in need. There is truly nothing more important during the holidays than giving. And you can still give by donating to the Harris County Constable Precinct One Foundation.”
To make a donation, please go to tinyurl.com/ HCP1CFdonate.
preventable injuries,” said Dr. Sandra McKay of UTHealth Houston and the Baker Institute for Public Policy. “As a pediatrician, I shouldn’t be caring for children who have been injured by guns. But I do, because of a number of reasons, including that guns aren’t stored securely. This dashboard gives us the evidence to guide interventions to help change that.”
Hospitals share data for the first time Houston’s effort is the first in the country to integrate clinical trauma data—including injury intent and detailed outcomes—with EMS, police, and mortality data. “For the first time, Houston’s hospitals, police and emergency responders are looking at the same picture—a compre-
hensive picture—and acting together,” Kamin said.
The dashboard reflects a partnership among the City of Houston, Memorial Hermann, Ben Taub Hospital, and Texas Children’s Hospital, all of which agreed to share anonymized Level I trauma data with the health department.
“By collaborating with the other Level I trauma centers and the Houston Health Department on this unique dashboard, Ben Taub Hospital’s trauma program is helping to shine a light on the devastating impact of gun violence in our city and county,” said Stephen Mora, director of Trauma Services at Ben Taub.
“Together, we are turning data into a shared call for action so that we can better understand the problem first, and then create meaningful solutions
for the future.”
Dr. Michelle McNutt of Memorial Hermann said the health system views gun violence as a public health emergency. “We agree with Council Member Kamin that it will require a multi-pronged approach with multiple partners working together to drive real change. By combining our resources and our data, this collective of first responders and trauma providers will be able to develop more effective, efficient and targeted solutions.”
And at Texas Children’s Hospital, rising pediatric injuries are cause for alarm. “It is profoundly disheartening to witness the increasing number of young lives lost to unintentional shootings,” said Dr. Erin Henkel, Associate Trauma Medical Director. “Each statistic signifies a life brimming
with potential, a family left heartbroken, and a community in mourning.”
Data-driven prevention strategies
The Houston Health Department will use dashboard findings to convene a new task force of hospital and community partners focused on reducing unintentional injuries and improving pediatric safety. The data will guide several coordinated interventions:
Project ChildSafe Houston, expanding community access to gun locks and safes.
• Pediatric safety screening, training clinicians to discuss firearm storage during well-child visits. “This dashboard does not just count tragedies—it is a roadmap to prevent them,”
Dr. McKay said. “We’ll know within months whether our interventions are working, and we’ll adjust until they do.”
Kamin stressed that the initiative centers on prevention, not politics. “This is about keeping Houston’s kids and families safe. A loaded, unsecured firearm that a child can get to is a serious health risk we can fix—every parent, regardless of politics, wants to prevent that nightmare.”
SAFEWatch allows users to explore patterns by ZIP code, injury intent, age, sex, race, drug or alcohol involvement, and location type (home, vehicle, public space). It also provides seasonal and time-ofday trends, survival outcomes, and comparisons between incident ZIP codes and victims’ home ZIP codes.
All data is anonymized and aggregated in compliance with HIPAA and reviewed under institutional protocols. The dashboard updates quarterly and is designed for policymakers, researchers, healthcare providers, community organizations, violence-intervention programs and residents.
Kamin, a civil rights attorney and lifelong Houstonian, represents District C and has been nationally recognized for data-driven public safety initiatives. A former chair of the city’s Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee, she led the creation of the SAFEWatch dashboard and continues to advocate for policies that protect children, support families, enhance resilience and improve quality of life across Houston. To access the SafeWatch dashboard, visit houstonhealth.org/safewatch.
Photos courtesy of Constable Precinct 1 Alan Rosen Constable Precinct One deputies gathering donations for annual toy drive, Dec. 2, 2025
THE NEIGHBORHOOD –
“Go away!” Slam! “Get off my yard!” Slam again. “I’m calling the cops!” Insults are OK. It’s the warning shots that are an noying. I am canvassing my neighborhood, Running Rats Acres, looking for a well-or ganized, card-carrying group that seems to be a hidden pow er which collectively causes havoc. You’ve heard of this gang of terrorists. Indeed, you may be a member who votes on plans and projects, has an office and website: Antifa! And our government is going after them with guns – or napalm, drones, rockets mounted on dirigibles. President Trump signed an executive order in September labeling Antifa a “domestic terrorist organization,” and all sorts of federal agencies scrambled to root out the antifans or antifiners or whatever these traitorous scumbags call themselves.
THE TOPICS.
A myth is as good an tifa
Lynn Ashby Columnist
The State Department, for example, searched for any foreign leftist groups it could brand as a terrorist organization. The search found four: one in Germany, another in Italy and two in Greece, but in their countries none are linked to anything called “Antifa.” In Germany, the group the State Department calls Antifa Ost, is not called that name or anything close. But it’s close
Department tried to come up with a definition, calling Antifa a “militant enterprise” which explicitly calls for “the overthrow of the United States government, law enforcement authorities and the system of law.” So Antifa is an “enterprise,” disguised as a car rental company. Incidentally, if you were wondering, Antifa takes its name from “antifascist political alignment.” That is a made-up and meaningless name like ExxonMobil, CocaCola and Oklahoma. Yet with all this hand-grenade-wringing and executive orders, Antifa has not been outlawed, no arrests, no wanted posters. Why? Because –roll of drums – Antifa is not an organization or “enterprise.” It doesn’t exist. It’s a straw-
man set up to knock down. Despite all the efforts by our federal fuzz to find the membership lists, midnight meetings and secret handshakes, it can’t declare Antifa a terrorist organization because it ain’t organized or even disorganized. We are witnessing a taxpayer-funded snipe hunt. Oh, sure, there are a bunch of loony-left bomb-throwers, and I think we can all agree they should be arrested, indicted and sentenced to 20 years in Port Arthur, but can’t our government’s dollars be spent on better pursuits? We could start with our health care. The U.S. ranks last in health care among 10 developed countries, even though we spend twice as much per person on health care.
Who was that mosque man? It could be your neighbor, because if Trump makes a move, can our Gov. Greg Abbott not act accordingly? Abbott designated the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on AmericanIslamic Relations as foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal organizations. This prohibits both organizations from purchasing land in Texas and allows Atty. Gen. Ken Paxton to sue to shut them down. The U.S. has designated branches or affiliates of the Muslim Brotherhood,
such as Hamas, as terrorist organizations, but has never taken any kind of action against the full group. The Council describes itself as “a civil rights group meant “to promote social, legal and political activism among Muslims in America.”
Alas, we must put the Hunt For Antifa in the category of the Loch Ness Monster, the Easter Bunny and the Texas Democratic Party. This brings us to the Cartel de los Soles. The Trump administration has designated this Venezuelan drug cartel to be, again, a foreign terrorist organization, and constantly claims that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro heads the “drug gang.”
Guess what -- and don’t get ahead of me – there is no organization of drug lords called Cartel de los Soles, Spanish for “Cartel of the Suns.” The title was coined in 1990 by Venezuelan journalists to describe some corrupt generals who are, indeed, deep into drug smuggling. The “suns” refers to the little suns the generals wear on their uniforms like our generals wear stars. And there is no organized, cardcarrying group in Caracas uniformly, so to speak, sending boatloads of fentanyl to our shores. As one American
expert put it: “There’s no hierarchical structure, no centralized leadership, and no pricesetting mechanisms like you’d expect from a real cartel. It’s an invented label that collapses a variety of local dynamics into a single, scary-sounding enemy.” Venezuelans must be laughing out loud.
Nevertheless, Trump has said that the U.S. military is attacking boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific because of the large numbers of fentanyl deaths in the U.S., and he claims that those boats come from Venezuela. So far we’ve blown up at least 21 boats, killing more than 80 civilians, including some fishermen. We have another problem: The fentanyl used illegally in the U.S. does not come from Venezuela. U.S. military officials told members of Congress there was no fentanyl on the boats, just cocaine. Of course, if the loads are cocaine, blow away, but let’s get our story properly identified before we invade another country under false pretenses.
Speaking of which, we have the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964 when two North Vietnam torpedo boats exchanged fire with two U.S. Navy warships. One North Vietnamese boat was supposedly damaged. Maybe. Later Navy reports
were confusing. It was a brief and relatively minor skirmish, but President Lyndon Johnson got Congress to overwhelmingly approve escalating our involvement, and off we went to Vietnam. We suffered 58,220 U.S. killed. “I don’t want the smoking gun to be a mushroom cloud.” That catchy phrase got us to invade Iraq. Saddam Hussein had nukes and America thought that was a bad idea. There were no nukes, but there were U.S. deaths: 4,492. Still, we can’t be too careful these days, so I am checking my neighbors for any hint of Antifa. Meanwhile, I am putting up my stocking for Santa Claus.
Ashby in paranoid 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.
GHP looks at how Houston region compares to other metros
STAFF REPORTS
Editor's note: In its "Economy at a Glance" report for November, the Greater Houston Partnership – the regional chamber of commerce – draws on the latest American Community Survey data from the U.S. Census Bureau to show how Greater Houston measures up to its peer metros. The main body of the report is presented here by permission. This article first appeared in The Leader's sister paper, the Fort Bend Star.
In October, the Partnership explored how the region’s demographic and economic profile has evolved over the past decade, drawing on newly released American Community Survey (ACS) data for 2024 from the U.S. Census Bureau. In short, the region has grown more diverse and better educated while aging more slowly than the nation overall. Additionally, the share of foreign-born residents has increased, with those born abroad now accounting for more than one in four Houston residents. This month, the Partnership uses the latest ACS data to compare Houston with the nation’s 20 largest metro areas, to see how the region stacks up. The results highlight the region’s strengths, shed light on its challenges, and underscore Houston’s capacity for continued progress and growth.
Worker Earnings
The median worker in greater Houston earned $45,984 per year in 2024, placing the region 17th among the nation’s 20 most populous metropolitan areas. On the surface, that figure suggests the typical Houston worker is worse off than counterparts in most other large metros, but the comparison does not account for regional differences in the cost-of-living.
According to the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) Cost of Living Index (COLI), Houston was the second-most affordable major metro in 2024, with overall costs falling 5.8% below the U.S. urban average. When wages are adjusted to reflect what they would be if living costs matched the national average, the typical Houston worker’s purchasing power rises to $48,815 per year. That is enough to propel Houston to the Number 6 spot, near the top of the list.
Many of the nation’s largest coastal metros, such as New York and Los Angeles, drop sharply in the rankings once cost-of-living differences are taken into account. Although workers in those regions tend to earn higher nominal wages, their earnings are quickly eroded by steep housing, transportation, and everyday living costs. The result is that the typical worker in a highcost coastal market has far less real purchasing power than a worker in Houston, underscoring how affordability is as critical as income in shaping a worker’s overall economic well-being.
Race and Ethnicity
Houston is among the most racially and ethnically diverse metro regions in the United States. As has been the case since the turn of the century, no single racial or ethnic group makes up a majority of the local population. Instead, Houston’s demographics reflect a broad mix of people that bring an inclusive character to its culture.
One way to measure a region’s diversity is through the Simpson Diversity Index, which shows the odds that two randomly selected residents in a region will belong to different racial or ethnic groups. Dividing the population into
Hispanic or Latino residents of any race and non-Hispanic White, Black, Asian, and other residents (including those of two or more races), Houston ranks fourth for diversity, with a 71.1% chance that any two random people will have different racial or ethnic backgrounds.
The three metros ranking above Houston are only slightly more diverse. In top-ranked San Francisco, the odds that two random residents belong to different groups are just 2.8 percentage points higher than in Houston.
In contrast to Houston, a single racial/ethnic group forms the majority of the population in the bottom nine metros on the list. In eight (Seattle, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Tampa, Denver, Boston, Detroit, and Minneapolis), the majority is non-Hispanic White, while in
Riverside, Hispanic or Latino residents make up most of the population.
Foreign-Born Population
More than one-in-four Houstonians (25.4%) were born outside the United States. That is well above the onein-seven (14.8%) nationally. Among the nation’s 20 largest metro areas, only Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York have higher shares of foreign-born residents, while metros such as Minneapolis, Detroit, and Philadelphia have shares that are less than half of Houston’s. The large share of foreign-born residents underscores Houston’s global and welcoming character.
Age
Houston has the youngest population of any major U.S.
metro. With a median age of 35.7 years, compared to 39.2 years nationally, roughly half of all Houstonians are still in the formative stages of their lives and careers. The region’s youthful profile sets it apart from most large metros, where aging populations are beginning to reshape local economies and labor markets. With 25.4% of its population under the age of 18, the highest share among major U.S. metros, Houston stands out for having a vast pool of young talent that will enter the workforce in the years ahead. This deep bench of future workers will sustain the region’s economic growth, support local industries, and keep the region vibrant as older generations begin to retire. A young population also fuels demand as more residents enter their household-formation and
wealth-building years, while fostering a community that’s open to new ideas and economic change - key ingredients for continued growth and innovation.
Note: The geographic area referred to in this publication as “Houston,” "Houston Area” and “Metro Houston” is the ten-county Census designated metropolitan statistical area of Houston-PasadenaThe Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX. The ten counties are: Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, San Jacinto, and Waller.
Find the full "Economy at a Glance" report at houston.org/ houston-data/economy-at-aglance-november-2025. Find the recently released ACS data at census.gov/programs-surveys/ acs/news/data-releases/2024/ release.html.
GUEST COLUMN
When ‘Huh?’ Becomes a Habit: Understanding age-related hearing loss
By MAYA SELA, ARYAN JAIN, LANCE HE, RAYHAN JHANJI, and ANGELA PENG, M.D.
Special to The Leader
Presbycusis might just be the most common type of hearing loss you’ve never heard of. Over time, you might catch yourself or those around you saying “huh” a bit more than usual. Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a type of slowly progressing hearing loss affecting both ears. It is estimated to affect nearly 65% of adults age 71 or older in the US – a number that increases to over 90% in individuals over the age of 90. While those affected by this type of hearing loss may feel alone in the silence, presbycusis is far from rare.
Understanding just how prevalent it is makes it important to look at how it happens. Like with your muscles, joints, and eyes, aging causes general stress on the body. Unfortunately, the ears are no exception. Hearing relies on specialized cells in your ear called hair cells, which detect, amplify, and transform sound waves into electrical signals that travel to the brain. With age, hair cells gradually deteriorate. Hearing babies crying, birds chirping, or alarms ringing can be especially challenging with presbycusis, as the cells responsible for detecting high frequencies of sounds are more likely to experience age-related damage. Focusing on sounds in restaurants, crowds, or other noisy settings may also become more difficult with presbycusis.
While some degree of hearing loss can be age-related, this doesn’t mean that it’s completely out of your hands. You can slow down the process by avoiding exposure to loud noises – concerts, construction equipment, and fireworks are just some examples. But when these environments are unavoidable, wearing protective devices, like earplugs, is an evidencebased method to preserve your hearing. Moreover, living a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help preserve hearing while improving overall health.
Now you might be wondering, how do I know if I or someone close to me has presbycusis? While the most
Nice Winery dedicates holiday wine to benefit Periwinkle Foundation
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Nice Winery donates 30% of sales of “Polar Bear” wine to Periwinkle Foundation
Nice Winery’s new 2019 Red Blend Wine called “Polar Bear” makes a unique holiday gift, while giving back to a worthy nonprofit organization, The Periwinkle Foundation. The label was designed by Jamie, a 13-year-old pediatric cancer patient at Texas Children’s and Hematology Center, who participates in the Periwinkle Arts in Medicine program called Making a Mark®. Nice Winery will donate 30% of the proceeds from the sale of each $60 bottle of wine back to The Periwinkle Foundation to help fund its programs.
Each year, a different red wine from Nice Winery is chosen for release, featuring the art of one of the patients in the Making A Mark® program. Jamie’s design for “Polar Bear” appealed to this year’s judges and adds a whimsical touch to each bottle of wine. The grapes are grown in Nice Winery’s vineyard in the prestigious Columbia Valley wine region in Washington state. The wine is a rare blend of Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, and Cabernet Franc grapes and is aged for three years in French Oak barrels.
“Polar Bear” was just awarded a coveted silver medal in the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo competition. Additionally, Nice Winery was
named Top All Around Winery for the third year in a row at the 2026 Rodeo Wine Competition, setting a new record. Nice Winery, located in the Spring Branch area of Houston, is owned by Certified Sommeliers Ryan Levy and Ian Eastveld, both charity-minded businessmen who have embraced The Periwinkle Foundation, along with other nonprofits. The two partners are Le Cordon Bleu-trained chefs. Each year, they hold a release party for the new wine that is chosen to benefit The Periwinkle Foundation.
“We greatly appreciate Ian and Ryan at Nice Winery, who generously donate a portion of the sale of each bottle to
support our camps and arts programs, as well as honoring our chosen artist at their event,” says Doug Suggitt, The Periwinkle Foundation
Executive Director. “I hope ‘Polar Bear’ will be on holiday lists for all of the many wine lovers in the Houston area, because not only is it a perfect wine for the winter holidays, but it keeps on giving by helping fund our programs, which are free to children and families.”
Suggitt notes that The Periwinkle Foundation is no stranger to wine, as it hosts Houston’s premier wine event, Iron Sommelier, every year.
“We just wrapped on Iron Sommelier 2025, earning a record $535,000 to support Periwinkle programs, with 650
wine lovers in attendance.”
The Periwinkle Foundation develops programs that positively impact the lives of children, young adults and families who are challenged by cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Periwinkle’s mission is realized through a continuum of camps, arts, and long-term survivor programs that accompany a child and their family from diagnosis through treatment, and into remission.
For more information about The Periwinkle Foundation, please visit www.periwinklefoundation.org. To purchase “Polar Bear” from Nice Winery, go to nicewines.com/charity/ nice-periwinkle-charity.
notable symptom is simply not being able to hear well, other signs include difficulty with high-pitched sounds (alarms, birds, children speaking), needing to turn up the television or phone volume, trouble understanding speech in noisy places, or experiencing ringing in your ears. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider, who can screen you for hearing loss. A formal diagnosis is then made by an audiologist or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist, who can also guide you through treatment options. Hearing aids are the mainstay of treatment for presbycusis. Although there is no cure, hearing aids help optimize your hearing by amplifying specific sound frequencies,
like turning up the volume with your TV remote. Newer hearing aids can even filter out background noise, making certain sounds clearer and easier to discern.
Learning about the symptoms, signs, and causes of presbycusis is an important step in connecting with the world, much of which relies on hearing. With treatment options continually improving, a diagnosis of presbycusis does not have to mean living in silence.
Editor’s note: Rayhan Jhanji, Lance He, Maya Sela, and Aryan Jain are students at the Baylor College of Medicine in the Texas Medical Center. Dr. Angela Peng served as the senior author for this article. This column is for informational purposes only. Always consult a physician for medical advice.
Winter Depression: Know
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Seasonal Affective
Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression related to changes in seasons, typically beginning in the fall and persisting into the winter months. Depressive disorders don’t take holidays, and this time of year can be particularly stressful.
For individuals who suffer from or are at risk of depression, the impact of holiday stress and pressure can be far more severe than the momentary frustrations that almost everyone experiences. Typical symptoms of SAD, sometimes referred to as winter depression, may include the following (Mayo Clinic):
• Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
• Experiencing a lack of energy
Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
• Feeling sluggish or agitated
• Oversleeping or having problems with sleeping
• Withdrawing socially
• Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty
• Engaging in problematic substance use
Contrary to a prevalent myth, suicide rates do not peak during the holiday season. However, depressed
individuals are hardly immune from either depressive episodes or suicidal ideation during this time.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression or thinking about suicide, get help now. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free resource, available 24 hours 7 days a week for anyone who is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. You can call or text 988 for confidential support. The Jason Foundation is another available resource. The Jason Foundation is dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth and young adult suicide through educational programs that equip youth, parents, educators, and the community with the tools and resources to identify and assist at-risk youth. Many times, a young person will exhibit clear warnings signs prior to an attempt. By knowing the warning signs and knowing how to help, you could save a life. Visit The Jason Foundation’s website to learn more about youth suicide, the warning signs, and how you can help make a difference. The Jason Foundation has never charged a school, community, or individual for the use of their programs or resources. To find the closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office, visit JasonFoundation.com.
(addresses provided with ticket) WHEN: Friday, Dec. 5 & Saturday, Dec. 6 COST: $40 INFO: Tickets at tinyurl.com/ HHAHolidayHomeTour DECEMBER 5–6, 2025 UH EMERGING CHOREOGRAPHERS SHOWCASE WHAT: New works by rising choreographers exploring themes of identity, resilience, culture, and artistry across contemporary, ballet, Latin fusion, heels, and experimental forms. WHERE: Lyndall Finley Wortham Theatre, 3351 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204 WHEN: Dec. 5 at 12 p.m.; Dec. 5–6 at 7:30 p.m.
COST: $20 GA; $15 seniors/faculty/ staff/alumni; $10 students INFO: kgmcaboxoffice.universitytickets.com
DECEMBER 5 & 12, 2025
HOLIDAY HAY RIDE AT WABASH FEED & GARDEN
WHAT: Wabash Feed & Garden is bringing back its popular Holiday Hay Ride for two festive Friday nights. Guests can enjoy a magical ride to see Christmas lights, along with crafts, hot cocoa, a cozy fire pit, and family-friendly holiday fun.
HOUSTON CHAMBER CHOIR PRESENTS “TAPESTRY: CHRISTMAS AT THE VILLA”
WHAT: The Grammy® Award-winning Houston Chamber Choir returns to the stunning Villa de Matel Chapel with Christmas concerts celebrating global carols reflecting the heritage of the Sisters of Charity. Featuring the Treble Choir of Houston and Houston Bronze Ensemble.
WHERE: Chapel at Villa de Matel, 6150 Lawndale St., Houston, TX 77023
WHEN: • Saturday, Dec. 6 at 2:30 p.m.
& 5 p.m. • Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. & 5 p.m.
COST: $10 students; $50 general admission; discounts for seniors, military & educators INFO: houstonchamberchoir. org/2025-2026-season/tapestry • Tickets selling fast
DECEMBER 7, 2025
COLOR FACTORY’S WINTER COLORLAND PARTY
WHAT: Color Factory—voted America’s #1 immersive art experience for the past two years—invites guests to step into a night of festive color and connection at its Winter Colorland Party. Visitors are encouraged to wear their seasonal best, enjoy holiday singalongs, explore sensory-driven art installations, and capture memories in the vibrant, interactive exhibits. Attendees receive a free photo print and an exclusive holiday postcard pack to share the joy.
WHERE: Color Factory Houston, 3303 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77098
WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 7, 4–6 p.m.
COST: Ticketed
INFO: colorfactory.co
DECEMBER 8, 2025
HOLIDAY BINGO & TOY DRIVE (WITH THE GRINCH!)
WHAT: A festive night of bingo hosted by the Grinch himself—complete with laughs, attitude, and holiday chaos. Bingo cards are $5. Guests are encouraged to bring unwrapped toys for Constable Alan Rosen’s annual Toy Drive. Ugly holiday sweaters encouraged; light bites and drinks available. Benefits the Houston Heights Association. WHERE: Historic Houston Heights
WHEN
Photo by Jerry Levy
Periwinkle Foundation Executive Director Doug Suggitt with pediatric cancer patient Jamie, whose polar bear design will be featured on this year's wine label, and her parents, Bianca and Cristobal.
Holiday menus, festive pop-ups & seasonal treats
STAFF REPORTS
Submit entries to editor@ theleadernews.com
Houston’s restaurants and bakeries are kicking off December with a flurry of festive flavors, special menus, charity drives and limitedtime dining events. From Feges BBQ’s ready-to-heat Christmas feasts and Brasserie 19’s champagne-soaked holiday parties to bellagreen’s anti-inflammatory “Golden Glow” menu, Via 313’s triple-pepperoni pizza and El Bolillo’s Rosca de Reyes, this month offers something for every craving. Whether you’re planning a family feast, gift shopping for food lovers or seeking out a holiday splurge like Hidden Omakase’s bluefin tuna breakdown, here’s what’s coming to a table near you.
The Union Kitchen
All five Union Kitchen locations rolled out $10 holiday cocktails for the season, including the Holly & Spice (elderflower liqueur, cranberry, cinnamon syrup, prosecco) and the Yuletide Buttered Bourbon (brown butter–infused Still Austin Bourbon, amaretto, cinnamon syrup).
Good God Nadine’s Good God Nadine’s in the Heights is offering a lineup of $15 holiday cocktails, including a Gingerbread Martini, Pomegranate Hibiscus Smash, Dreaming of a White Cosmo, The Naughty List, and Nadine’s Grasshopper. Reservations encouraged; walk-ins welcome.
WHERE: 33 Waugh Dr., Houston, TX 77007
WHEN: Available now through Dec. 31
COST: $15 holiday cocktails INFO: goodgodnadines. com
THE SUNRISE HOUSE
The Sunrise House in Montrose is celebrating the holidays with festive lattes (boozy optional) such as Baby It’s Cold Outside, The North Pole and Ho Ho Hot Cocoa, plus winter cocktails like Santa’s Milk & Cookies, Jack Frost, Run, Run, Rudolph and The Grinch.
WHERE: 1830 W. Alabama St., Houston, TX 77098
WHEN: Seasonal menu available throughout the holiday period
COST: Drinks priced individually
INFO: thesunrisehouse. com
Kazzan Ramen & Bar
Kazzan Ramen & Bar is offering two Asian-inspired holiday cocktails including the $11 NogTea List (Thai tea, spiced rum, cognac, eggnog liqueur, condensed milk, rumchata foam) and the $14 Merry Peary Christmas (Japanese whiskey, spiced pear liqueur, honey syrup, lemon, garnished with pear and star anise).
WHERE: 191 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77007
WHEN: Seasonal cocktails available for a limited time
COST: $11–$14
INFO: kazzanramenhtx. com
Feges BBQ – Happiest Holiday Season
Feges BBQ is rolling out a full slate of holiday fun, from a curated Holiday Gift Guide for BBQ lovers to ready-toheat Christmas platters with smoked meats, sides and sweets. Smoked brisket tamales by the dozen are available for local pickup and nationwide delivery, and families can meet Santa at the Spring Branch location during the fifth annual “Very Feges Christmas” on Dec. 20.
WHERE: Spring Branch: 8217 Long Point Rd, 77055; Greenway Plaza: 3 Greenway Plaza, Suite C-210, 77046 (in The Hub at Greenway)
WHEN: Pre-order Christmas menus for local pickup by Friday, Dec. 19; order by Monday, Dec. 22 for nationwide delivery
INFO: fegesbbq.com
Brasserie 19 – A Month of Sparkling Holiday Glamour
Brasserie 19 is closing out the year with a full month of festivities in true River Oaks style, including DJ-driven Santa Le Brunch de Funk
(Dec. 6), piano nights at Le Club du Dimanche (Dec. 7 and Holiday Edition Dec. 14), Sparkling Le Brunch de Funk (Dec. 28), and a “Midnight in Paris” New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31. Look for holiday sweaters, melted raclette, live piano, seasonal cocktails and a Moët-Hennessy midnight toast.
WHERE: 1962 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019
WHEN: Select dates throughout December; NYE party 8 p.m.–1 a.m. on Dec. 31
INFO: brasserie19.com
bellagreen – “Golden Glow” Winter Seasonal Menu
bellagreen is leaning into the Golden Glow wellness trend with an anti-inflammatory winter menu built around turmeric, ginger, sweet potatoes, kale, berries, salmon and more. Dishes include Golden Glow Chicken Soup, Golden Grain & Arugula Salad, a Golden Glow Roasted Veggie Bowl, Golden Glow Seared Salmon, plus Peppermint and German Chocolate cheesecakes.
WHERE: 748 E 11th St, Houston, TX 77008
WHEN: Seasonal menu available through February
INFO: bellagreen.com
Via 313 – Triple Threat Pizza & Holiday HubCaps
Detroit-style Via 313 is rolling out its Triple Threat Pizza loaded with smoked, jalapeño and natural-casing pepperoni, along with Apple Charlie’s Old Fashioned cocktail. Holiday HubCaps return with Gingerbread, Hot Cocoa and Peppermint cookie-andice-cream creations. A portion of sales supports the brand’s Better Giving Through Pizza initiative benefiting Recenter Houston, a treatment center for those overcoming alcohol and drug addiction.
WHERE: 1541 N. Shepherd Dr., Suite 1000, Houston, 77008
WHEN: Limited-time menu through Feb. 1
INFO: via313.com
El Bolillo Bakery –Cakes, Conchas, Rosca & Tamales
El Bolillo is in full holiday mode with 6” Snowman and Reindeer holiday cakes (both vanilla tres leches), chocolate cream–filled conchas, traditional Rosca de Reyes and warm tamales in flavors like pork, pork habanero, chicken & hatch chile and rajas con queso. A three-tamale combo with a free drink is also available.
WHERE: 2517 Airline Dr., Houston, 77009
WHEN: Cakes and conchas available though Dec. 24; Rosca de Reyes Jan. 2–6 (preorder and in-store); tamales available in-store and via Uber Eats INFO: elbolillo.com
Common Bond –
Holiday Preorders, Pastries & Winter Sips
1 year old
Female
Common Bond’s holiday preorder menu includes showstoppers like a Black Forest Bûche de Noël, Vanilla Pistachio Raspberry Wreath entremet, classic pies, cornbreads, challah rolls, and holiday bundles of pies and cookies. New seasonal bakery items (Cherry Almond Croissant, Mexican Hot Chocolate
Macaron, Glazed Croissant Loaf) join a full lineup of winter drinks such as Peppermint Mochas, Gingerbread Lattes, S’mores Cold Brew, Spiced Mexican Mochas and Caramel Brûlée Lattes.
WHERE: 449 W. 19th St., Suite B-100, 77008
WHEN: Preorders Dec. 1–20 for pickup Dec. 23–24
INFO: commonbondcafe. com
Hugo’s – Three-Course Lunch in Montrose
Hugo’s is offering a $42 three-course lunch with choices like Sopa Azteca or Caesar salad, mains ranging from tacos de birria, shrimp tostadas and vegetable enchiladas to fish of the day or skirt steak, plus desserts like eggnog cheesecake or churros rellenos.
COST: $42 per person plus beverage, tax & gratuity
INFO: hugosrestaurant.net
Caracol – Coastal Mexican Lunch Prix Fixe
At Caracol, guests can enjoy a $42 three-course lunch featuring pear salad or creamy squash soup, followed by entrées like smoked octopus, roasted chicken, arrachera, vegetable enchiladas or grilled striped bass, with desserts such as brioche-style capirotada or mocha flan.
WHERE: 2200 Post Oak Blvd. #160
WHEN: Lunch Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
COST: $42 per person plus beverage, tax & gratuity INFO: caracol.net
Xochi – OaxacanInspired Midday Feast
Xochi’s $42 three-course lunch features starters like butternut squash salad or creamy cauliflower soup, followed by mains such as shrimp with chile de ajo, chile relleno, skirt steak, fish of the day or crispy duck tacos, and sweets like chocolate-mint tres leches or hazelnut flan.
WHERE: 1777 Walker St. in the Marriott Marquis Houston
WHEN: Lunch Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
COST: $42 per person plus beverage, tax & gratuity
INFO: xochihouston.com
Zaranda – Elevated $42 Midtown Lunch
Zaranda’s weekday lunch offers a Caesar salad or soup of the day, followed by mains like a prime rib torta, king salmon salad, marinated rainbow trout, picanha, roasted chicken or vegetarian tacos, with desserts including warm date cake or requesón cheese flan.
WHERE: 1550 Lamar
WHEN: Lunch Monday–Friday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
COST: $42 per person plus beverage, tax & gratuity INFO: ZarandaHouston. com
Blue Claw is partnering with The Rainbow Room to collect new toys, clothing and essentials for children in the foster care system throughout December, culminating in a Dec. 23 holiday meal and gift event for the kids. Diners can
also enjoy the new “7 Days of Cravings” daily specials, from Margarita Monday ($5 margaritas + $1 oysters) and Tequila Tuesday (half-off tequila and lobster burgers) to Wine Wednesday, Risotto Thursday, Fish Friday, Kids Eat Free Saturdays and Sunday seafood boil deals.
WHERE: 13232 Northwest Fwy, Houston
WHEN: Donations all December; Rainbow Room visit Dec. 17; children’s holiday meal Dec. 23, noon–3 p.m. INFO: blueclawrestaurants. com
Hidden Omakase – Winter Bluefin Wonderland at Wooster’s Garden
Michelin-recommended
Hidden Omakase is hosting a one-night-only Winter Bluefin Wonderland pop-up with a whole tuna breakdown, endless sushi, a handroll station, mobile oyster shucking, cowgirl caviar, live entertainment, complimentary cocktails and valet.
Upper Kirby’s upscale Asian steakhouse Haii Keii is offering a $55 three-course Holiday Menu nightly from 5 p.m., featuring starters like Thai Chile Shrimp or Pork Belly, mains including filet mignon, Gulf red snapper, Chilean sea bass or the luxe Murakami Roll, plus desserts such as Ube Cheesecake or a Twixx Bombe. Guests can also splurge on upgrades like Wagyu flights, and enjoy Half-Off Wagyu & Whiskey Wednesdays and Half-Off Maki & Sake Sundays all season.
WHERE: 3300 Kirby Dr., Suite 9-A, Houston WHEN: Holiday prix fixe and weekly specials available evenings during the holiday season INFO: haiikeii.com
Torchy’s Tacos – Queso Gold Card & Holiday Party Packs
Torchy’s is bringing back its coveted Queso Gold Card— spend $250 or more on gift cards in-restaurant starting Nov. 19 and earn a card good for free Green Chile Queso with purchase through Dec. 31, 2026, while supplies last. Shoppers who spend $25 on gift cards receive a $5 Taco Cash Card, and holiday Family Meals and Party Packs make it easy to feed 4–10 people with tacos, tortillas, rice, beans, chips and salsa. Hooky Hour (weekdays 2–6 p.m.) offers half-priced drinks and $6 apps, including a holiday-themed margarita.
WHERE: 350 W. 19th St., Ste. A, Houston, 77008 INFO: torchystacos.com
Jason’s Deli – Gather & Graze Charcuterie + Holiday Gift Card Bonus
Jason’s Deli’s new Gather & Graze Charcuterie Box packs pepperoni, hard salami, cheeses, olives, piquillo peppers, artichokes, pesto aioli and house-made toasties and flatbread—perfect for office lunches or parties through
Dec. 31. Guests who buy $50 in gift cards Nov. 17–Dec. 28 get a $5 promo card for January, plus Deli Dollar members receive an extra $5; participating delis also offer a free Coca-Cola + Jason’s Deli Polar Bear ornament with qualifying gift card purchases while supplies last.
Comfort & Holiday Dining Round-Up –National Food Days & Feasts
Golden Corral is celebrating National Comfort Food Day (Dec. 5) with its all-youcan-eat comfort classics and a limited-time Holiday Buffet from 4 p.m. to close, plus Holiday Meals To Go for Christmas Eve and Day.
Jason’s Deli is marking comfort season with Vegetable Soup, Beef Stew, Harvest Turkey Sandwiches and Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake through Dec. 31. Nothing Bundt Cakes offers its Bundtember lineup and limited-time Coconut Cream Snowflake Cake (Dec. 1–14). Teriyaki Madness celebrates National Chicken Teriyaki Day (Dec. 11) with a BOGO bowl offer for Mad Rewards members and a chance to win free bowls for a year, plus free delivery week (Dec. 11–17).
INFO: goldencorral.com; jasonsdeli.com; nothingbundtcakes.com; teriyakimadness. com
Holiday Dining Out – Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year’s Eve
Perry’s Steakhouse is offering two special Christmas Eve dine-in menus on Dec. 24: a 3-course menu starting at $69 and a 4-course Rare and Well Done Menu at $139, with luxurious starters, surf-andturf entrées and festive desserts (credit card reservations required; $15 cancellation fee after Dec. 22).
J. Alexander’s will be open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve with its full menu of woodfired specialties and cocktails. Golden Corral’s Holiday Buffet and Holiday Meals To Go are available Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (hours vary by location). Jason’s Deli’s Fall Flavors catering runs all December for easy holiday hosting. Nothing Bundt Cakes continues Bundtember with a limited-time Peppermint Chocolate Chip flavor Dec. 8–28.
Dog Haus offers shareable bundles and catering all month, plus cocktails and late-night fuel for New Year’s Eve. Teriyaki Madness will be open with modified hours on Christmas Eve. INFO: perryssteakhouse. com; jalexanders.com; goldencorral.com; jasonsdeli. com; nothingbundtcakes.com; doghaus.com; teriyakimadness.com
looking for a caring, spirited companion who will surely make you smile, Angie just might be the perfect addition to your family. She’s ready to settle down and enjoy all the love and care she deserves in a home of her own. Are you ready to give this pretty girl the chance she’s been waiting for? Learn more about Angie at friends4life.org/ adoptable-pets/angie.
Good God Nadine’s is giving Houstonians a new way to shop local with the launch of its weekly Good God Market, a Tuesdayevening outdoor market held from 4–7 p.m. on the restaurant’s expansive, pet-friendly patio at 33 Waugh Drive. The market is hosted in partnership with Acres Homes-based Verdegreens, the urban farm also owned by the restaurant’s founders, and features a rotating lineup of 10 local vendors each week. Shoppers can browse fresh produce, handmade goods, baked items, and artisan products while supporting small businesses and enjoying the lively Heights atmosphere.
Vendors may vary, but the Dec. 2 market included favorites like Verdegreens, Kaan Bakery, Zozo Fresh, La Planta, The Laundry Bag, 4 Pets Sake, Chef Catherine Rodriguez, Buongusto, Bee 2 Bee, and La Planta Co.
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations at goodgodnadines. com or by calling 713-864-8084 are encouraged for those who want to stay for dinner or drinks after shopping.
WHAT: Good God Market – weekly outdoor market featuring local vendors WHEN: Every Tuesday | 4–7 p.m. WHERE: Good God Nadine’s | 33 Waugh Dr, Houston, TX 77007 INFO: goodgodnadines.com
Name: Angie Age:
Photo by Billy Trainor
Verdegreens at Good God Market
Art Valet: Kids, strings, and the pure joy of making music on purpose
Someone recently asked my favorite part of running First Saturday Arts Market. Easy: getting to be creative on purpose. Every month I’m surrounded by people who inspire me, and if I’m lucky, I get to spark a little inspiration right back. This Saturday the inspiration meter is going to red-line when a big group of young musicians from Crockett Elementary Magnet School for the Performing and Visual Arts takes the stage beneath the “I AM LOVE” mural.
Tamra Pierce, an arts and First Ward Houston advocate (and good friend!) introduced me to Laura Lucas, the orchestra teacher at Crockett. Lucas was looking for a large outdoor venue for the students and I was running the second Saturday art market over at Sawyer Yards.
Crockett is only two blocks from the Silos at Sawyer Yards, home of our sister market back when we set up along that old rail line beneath the giant rice silos. They performed Decembers and sometimes May for about six years. I recall one year they had to
Mitch cohen Art Columnist artvalet@gmail.com
hustle under cover of the former train shed when it began to rain. That echo chamber was an amazing performance! I’m thrilled that the students can now join us in the Heights at First Saturday Arts Market, and the weather will be perfect.
Starting at 11 a.m. and playing until about noon, these kids bring something magic. Watching elementary fingers fly across violin strings or pound out rhythms that make grown-ups want to dance never gets old. Under the direction of the unstoppable Ms. Laura Lucas, the Crockett Orchestra has become a Houston treasure. Students perform at festivals, competitions, and civic events, and even receive coaching from teaching artists
"Deck
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Mayor John Whitmire and Reliant have announced Deck the Hall: The Mayor’s Holiday Tree Lighting Concert, Houston’s beloved and official kickoff to the holiday season. The free, family-friendly celebration will take place Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, from 4–8 p.m. in Hermann Square at City Hall, featuring live music, festive entertainment, and the lighting of Houston’s official holiday tree. The activities will open at 4 p.m., with the concert beginning at 6 p.m.
This year’s expanded concert experience will bring an exciting mix of national and local talent to the heart of downtown Houston, with Grammy-nominated R&B legend Brian McKnight headlining the evening and performing a selection of holiday favorites and timeless hits, joined by additional musicians. All performers will be backed by The Ernest Walker Band, a Houston favorite.
Mayor Whitmire will lead the official countdown to light Houston’s towering holiday tree, ushering in the city’s holiday season. The celebration will continue with live performances and festive cheer, culminating in a spectacular fireworks finale as snow drifts over the audience in Hermann Square.
“This event is one of my favorite holiday traditions,” said
Mayor Whitmire. “It’s a wonderful time for Houstonians from every neighborhood to come together, share in the joy of the season, and celebrate the unity and spirit that make our city so special. I thank Reliant and our community partners for making this annual celebration possible.”
Reliant’s signature blinking Santa hats will return to delight the crowd, while the NEW Winter Wonderland Kids Zone, co-sponsored by the Houston Public Library, will offer free crafts, games, and interactive holiday activities. Families can also visit Santa’s Workshop for photos and festive fun.
“At Reliant, we believe in the power of community and the magic of the holiday season,” said Mark Parsons, Senior Vice President, Reliant.
“That’s why we’re proud to sponsor Deck the Hall, a celebration that brings a familyfriendly tradition to Downtown Houston. From the glow of the lights to the joy sparked by our festive blinking Santa hats, this free event reflects our commitment to creating shared experiences that unite and uplift our community. We’re honored to continue this tradition and help make the holidays a little brighter for everyone.”
For more information and street closures, please visit www.houstonspecialevents. org.
with the Houston Symphony. At Crockett they believe the arts aren’t extra; they’re essential. Through music and visual art, students develop the kind of joyful, positive self-concept that spills into everything else they do.
The Fine Arts program also includes choir (directed by the amazing Mr. Blaine Cowen), percussion (Mr. Christian Moore keeps those rhythms tight), and visual art (Mr. Benjamin Buggs has them painting, sculpting, and designing like pros). It’s serious, joyful training that starts young, exactly when creative potential is ready to explode. Special thanks to Principal Lakeysha Boleware, and
Assistant Principals, Hao Tran and Anetria Woodard, for letting these young talents loose on the world.
The Holiday Edition of First Saturday Arts Market will of course be happening all day and with nearly 50 artists this month, expect to be beset with an abundance of creative shopping inspiration. Vivre Coffee Collective will be on site with their own version of caffeinated craft beverages. Visit the market website for artist previews, nearby parking options and more, firstsaturdayartsmarket.com.
Come early, grab a coffee, shop the market, and let these young artists remind you why we all started making things in the first place. First Saturday Arts Market, 540 W. 19th St. in the Heights, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. The kids perform 11 a.m.–noon(ish) under the mural. Bring your ears and your heart. Both are about to get very full.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit his website at ArtValet.com.
Photos courtesy of City of Houston Mayor’s Office
Submitted photo
“Finding Summer,” acrylic on canvas by new artist S.H. Khan, already found its forever home before the market even opened. Come meet Khan and see what’s next.
Submitted photo
Crockett After School Advanced Orchestra, will open Saturday’s market with a free concert under the “I AM LOVE” mural, 11 a.m.-noon.
Photo by Natalie Shipula
First Saturday Arts Market returns this Saturday for its Holiday Edition with nearly 50 artists, live music by Crockett Elementary students and perfect Heights weather. Shown here in October.
Submitted photo
Welcome to the market, Jeneéne T. Poole! She joins us for the very first time with the unforgettable “A Poppy Among Daffodils,” 30×40.
