Houston City Council Member Abbie Kamin opened 2026 with a look back at what her office called a year of “unique challenges” in District C—highlighting constituent service volume, a slate of public safety initiatives, major infrastructure planning, and flood mitigation investments across the district.
In her year-end newsletter, Kamin thanked residents for their engagement and credited her five-person team with
handling “tens of thousands” of emails in 2025, responding to more than 2,600 inbound calls, and closing 2,800 constituent cases. She said staff also attended multiple neighborhood events each week, ranging from HOA meetings to super neighborhood briefings and community celebrations.
Public safety priorities: gun violence, domestic violence, and neighborhood enforcement Kamin’s recap emphasized public
safety as a top priority in 2025, led by the launch of SAFEWATCH Houston— described as a first-of-its-kind firearm injury dashboard funded with $300,000 and developed with the Houston Health Department. The dashboard compiles data from the Texas Medical Center’s three Level I trauma centers, HPD nonfatal injury data, EMS/911 calls, hospital visits, and medical examiner fatality data. The newsletter noted that in 2024 there were more than 200 trauma center visits tied to unintentional firearm
injuries, with about half involving children.
Her office also continued a $75,000 #LockItUpSafe safe firearm storage partnership with HPD and BeSMART, distributing free gun locks and safes through school and community events, including stops at Baker Montessori, Waltrip High School, Garden Oaks Montessori, and Field Elementary.
On domestic violence, the newsletter said Kamin was recognized by
By JUHI VARMA The Leader News Contributor
Oak Forest nonprofit Trees For Houston (TFH) has reached a major milestone, planting its one-millionth tree. In partnership with Chevron, the organization marked the occasion with a live oak planted at the historic 1847 Kellum-Noble House in Sam Houston Park.
Community leaders and elected officials, including Mayor John Whitmire, attended the event to recognize the organization’s urban forestry efforts across Greater Houston.
“Reaching one million trees is a milestone built over four decades by volunteers, supporters, and partners who believed Houston’s neighborhoods deserve a healthier, greener future,” said Barry
Ward, Executive Director of Trees For Houston.
In an emailed statement, Ward said the Kellum-Noble House was chosen for its symbolism, linking Houston’s built history with living nature. Sam Houston Park, the city’s first municipal park, connects historic homes and cultural heritage with Houston’s natural patrimony through its trees and canopy.
“Trees bring beauty and shade to our neighborhoods and improve the air we breathe,” said Mayor John Whitmire. “Each tree is a symbol of our resilience and reflects who we are as a city today—and the legacy we are building for the future.”
Houston’s tree canopy From cleaner air and cooler neighborhoods to lower energy
By BETSY DENSON The Leader News Contributor
The Malala Yousafzai mini mural at Ella and TC Jester is back, and its restoration caught the attention of the subject’s father.
Ziauddin Yousafzai, Malala’s father, tweeted City Council Member Abbie Kamin to say how beautiful the mural looked after Noah Quiles of UP Art Studio cleaned off the vandalism last week. Kamin had visited the site while the work was being done.
“These murals mean so much to the neighborhood and are having a global reach,” Kamin said.
Someone had painted beige over Yousafzai’s portrait and scrawled graffiti on the utility box, the third time the mural has been defaced since Houston artist Jessica Padilla created it in 2019. But an industrial clear coat applied after the second restoration let Quiles scrub away the damage, no repainting required.
By BETSY DENSON The Leader News Contributor
It is, in fact, their first rodeo.
The Houston Heights Association is throwing a neighborhood-sized party on Feb. 21, transforming the Heights Fire Station into a family-friendly celebration of all things Western. The inaugural Heights Rodeo runs from 2 to 6 p.m. and features a petting zoo, pony rides, a mechanical bull, carnival-style games, food trucks, live entertainment and a local artisan market.
“This really is just us planning a party for our neighborhood,” said Hannah White, pastor at Village Heights Church and former president of the Houston Heights Association. “It’s us using our talents and our connections to build community because this is our community.”
The event operates on a ticketbased system for activities and games. Attendees can purchase 40 tickets for $40 or 100 tickets for $80 at the event. Individual activities require varying amounts of tickets, with the petting zoo costing six tickets and the mechanical bull requiring eight.
“It’ll feel very carnival-esque,” White said.
The second floor of the fire station will host a local artisan market featuring 19 vendors and growing. Participants include Joy and Jo’s Children’s Boutique, Wilson Mobile Book Emporium, Two and Ten Ceramics, Charti B Needlepoint, and food vendors like The Pop Shop, Citizen’s Catering and Saint Arnold’s.
Six underwriters have stepped up to support the event: Bungalow Blue Boutique, Heights Law Group, Kasia McCormick of Compass Heights, PFA Financial’s Lauren Lindsay, Furnish The Party and Village Heights Church.
Photo
Solid Waste Management Department Presidents
Day holiday collection and facility schedule
REPORTS
The City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) announces an adjusted curbside collection schedule in observance of Presidents Day. Curbside services and facility operations will follow the schedule outlined below. Residents whose regular collection day falls on Monday should place their trash and recycling carts out for collection on Tuesday, Feb. 17
Residents whose regular collection day falls on Tuesday should place their carts out for collection on Wednesday, Feb. 18
There will be no changes for residents who receive Thursday or Friday collection. Those residents should place their containers out on their regularly scheduled collection day.
Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 (Presidents Day)
• No curbside collection. (Monday customers set carts out on Tuesday.)
• All facilities and administrative offices are closed, including Residential Drop Off Centers Environmental Service Center, Westpark Recycling Center, and Reuse Warehouse
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026
Monday collections serviced (Tuesday customers set carts out Wednesday.)
All facilities and administrative offices reopen, including Residential Drop Off Centers, Environmental Service Center, Westpark Recycling Center, and Reuse Warehouse Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026
Tuesday collections will be serviced Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026
Regular collection schedule resumes.
Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA) as the 2025 “Ambassador of Advocacy” and continued the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign with community partners. The recap also highlighted the opening of Houston Area Women’s Center’s expanded facility, One Safe Place Houston, and noted Kamin-backed initiatives such as $15,000 in district dollars for HAWC services, a Mother’s Day brunch for residents, and support for HAWC’s holiday toy efforts in partnership with the Houston Fire Department.
The newsletter also pointed to increased district allocations for HPD overtime—$75,000 annually for Central Division and $30,000 for Southwest Division—plus a new pilot program allocating $60,000 for HFD drones equipped with speakers to aid emergency communication when cell service is down. Kamin said she supported HPD’s new contract, which the newsletter described as raising officer pay by 36.5% over five years, beginning with a 10% increase in the first year, while also raising concerns about the elimination of HPD’s Community Affairs Division.
In neighborhood-focused enforcement, her office cited work on nuisance bars and noise complaints, including administrative hearings tied to sound permits and the creation of a Central Division “hot-spot unit.” The newsletter also described efforts to address unsafe multi-family properties, including Chapter 125 lawsuits and response work following multiple fires at Life at Jackson Square in December that displaced residents. Other quality-of-life efforts included addressing street racing and “car meetups,” forming a monthly interdepartmental enforcement task force for repeat-offender properties, and advancing a short-term rental ordinance that created a registration requirement and added a human and sex trafficking awareness course for STR operators. The STR registration platform went live in October, with enforcement beginning Jan. 1, 2026, according to the newsletter.
Infrastructure: major capital projects and targeted safety upgrades
Kamin’s 2025 recap out-
bills, trees deliver measurable health and environmental benefits that multiply as the city’s canopy grows.
Using U.S. Forest Service iTree analysis, Houston’s tree canopy is estimated at 18.4%, Ward said. The city’s tree cover is unevenly distributed, and many fast-growing areas still require large-scale planting to keep pace with development. If a school or neighborhood has little to no shade, it’s a priority for planting, Ward said.
“Trees For Houston didn’t just plant trees, they showed up for Houston’s East End,” said Abner Lyons, district liaison for Rep. Harold V. Dutton and long-time TFH community partner. “They listened, they partnered with people who live here, and they fol-
lined a “robust pipeline” of projects in design and under construction, spanning streets, drainage, sidewalk packages, and safety improvements. Among major capital projects in design, her newsletter listed University Boulevard (Kirby to Morningside), Dunlavy (West Dallas to Peden), Antoine (Acorn to US 290 and Acorn to Cole Creek, Segment II), the Bissonnet Corridor Safe Streets Project (Dairy Ashford to Hillcroft), and the Freedmen’s Town brick street improvement project.
Under construction or coming soon, the newsletter highlighted the Shepherd-Durham reconstruction (15th Street to IH-10), Roseland area paving and drainage, and Waugh safety improvements. It also included Houston Public Works “delivery program” highlights for FY26, including traffic signal planning and design work, intersection safety design, street rehabilitation funding, and dozens of sidewalk projects moving through planning, design, and construction.
District-level safety upgrades cited in the recap included a flashing beacon at 13th and Yale, intersection improvements at 13th and Columbia, TC Jester and White Oak Bayou crossing safety work, a Central Northwest sidewalk package, and MKT Trail and Waverly crossing safety upgrades.
Flood prevention and resiliency: SWAT investments and ditch maintenance
Flood mitigation and resiliency was another central theme, with the newsletter pointing to Stormwater Action Team (SWAT) investments across District C. New SWAT projects listed included Milwee and Zoch ($445,500), W. 31st and Yale ($270,000), Woodhead and Portsmouth ($829,620), and E. 8th and Oxford ($950,000). The recap also noted progress on ongoing SWAT projects in Cottage Grove, Woodcrest, Kingston Terrace, Blue Bonnet near Greenbriar, and Ella Lee Forest.
Kamin’s office also promot-
ed its #DistC Ditch Team survey, which gathered residentsubmitted reports and photos to identify maintenance needs.
The newsletter said crews began eight miles of ditch rehabilitation in neighborhoods including Magnolia Grove, Rice Military, and Woodcrest, totaling more than $438,000 in improvements, supported by $125,000 in district dollars.
City services and community programming
On service delivery, the newsletter described Kamin’s office escalating delays residents faced and supporting frontline municipal workers— highlighting more than 500 solid waste cases closed in 2025. The recap also included anecdotes about Kamin personally delivering trash and recycling bins to residents who had waited months and hauling illegally dumped tree debris from Rose of Sharon Baptist Church to a city depository.
The newsletter also highlighted investments in community facilities and programs, including funding at the African American History Research Center (BookLINK “vending machine,” ADA doorway installation, and a fire suppression design study), and progress on the West Gray Multi-Service Center Master Plan. The recap said Kamin secured $11.5 million in partnership funding with the Mayor’s administration and Montrose TIRZ (TIRZ 27), plus $100,000 in district dollars placed into a dedicated fund for future improvements, alongside bathroom renovations supported by federal dollars.
Environment and sustainability: recycling, EV charging, and tree canopy
The recap framed sustainability work through both policy and hands-on programs. Kamin’s newsletter said she helped advance updates to Houston’s engineering manuals to incentivize green stormwater infrastructure options such as green roofs and bioswales. It also highlighted Houston’s first multi-family recycling pilot program—originally initiated through a 2021 budget amendment—and ongoing district initiatives like an annual e-recycling drive and a subsidized rain barrel sale (150 barrels reduced to $10 each, according to the newsletter).
The newsletter also pointed to the installation of the city’s first public-facing EV charging
lowed through. That kind of care leaves a mark. I’m grateful the community is greener today because of their work.”
Downtown tree efforts focus on replacing lost trees,
stations on city property at Buffalo Bayou Park, supported by $100,000 in District C funds in partnership with Downtown Houston+. Tree canopy efforts included distributing and planting trees with Trees for Houston and supporting plantings at parks and along trails.
Budget stance and affordability
Kamin also used the newsletter to explain her fiscal concerns, noting she voted against the FY26 city budget—described as the first “no” vote of her tenure—citing the city’s failure to adequately plan for disaster response. Her recap said she introduced an amendment to strengthen the Budget Stabilization Fund by replenishing it annually rather than every two years and increasing the fund amount from $20 million to $25 million. The newsletter also referenced ongoing concerns related to the city’s streets-and-drainage funding settlement and objections to the diversion of stormwater funds for demolition, arguing drainage investments remain critical.
Neighborhood snapshot: district-wide project list
Kamin’s year-in-review closed with neighborhoodby-neighborhood examples of projects and service work— from pedestrian bridge planning in Braeswood/Greater Meyerland and sidewalk packages in Central Northwest, to historic brick protections and youth programming in Fourth Ward, traffic safety and flooding mitigation in the Greater Heights, park court improvements in Lazybrook/ Timbergrove, the West Gray master plan in Neartown/ Montrose, and drainage, bikeway, and enforcement efforts in the Washington Avenue/ Memorial Park area. In her message to residents, Kamin said her priorities heading into 2026 remain consistent: “protect our families, businesses, and our neighborhoods,” while continuing to invest in public safety response, flood-prone areas, and climate resiliency.
Kamin, who has represented District C – including the Greater Heights, Lazybrook/ Timbergrove, Greater Inwood, and Washington Avenue Coalition/Memorial Park –since 2019, filed to run for Harris County Attorney on Dec. 5, seeking to succeed Christian Menefee.
Ward said, while the highest potential for large-scale forestation exists in fast-growing suburban communities such as Katy, Fulshear, Sugar Land and Missouri City.
TFH generally uses a “right tree, right place” approach— matching species to site conditions, space, and long-term maintenance, Ward said. For Houston-area streets and public sites, commonly recommended, hardy options include live oak, cedar elm, bald cypress, and several oak species (among other native species.)
About Trees For Houston
TFH was founded in 1983 as the Live Oak Society, with the mission to plant, protect, and promote trees throughout the greater Houston area.
Ward said the live oak was chosen as the millionth tree both for practicality and symbolism: the native species is hardy in Houston’s climate and complements the park’s historic surroundings, while its centuries-long lifespan represents a lasting investment in the city’s future.
“Live oaks can live for centuries, so planting one is a literal commitment to Houston’s future,” Ward said. “The oldest tree in Houston is said to be a live oak around 500 years old, underscoring the ‘outlive us’ time horizon.”
Over the decades, TFH has led or supported landmark initiatives such as Trees For Downtown (2,400 live oaks), The Parkway Project (tree planting across 50 miles of major thoroughfares), and Freeways to Treeways (9,000+ trees and seedlings along Houston’s major freeways — one of the first major reforestation programs in a US city).
“Chevron’s partnership with TFH has grown into a more than 25-year collaboration rooted in long-term impact, “said Margaret Cooper, director and senior vice president, Global Corporate Affairs, Chevron. “Through more than $1.3 million in giving and the operation of Chevronsupported tree nurseries, we are proud to be part of Trees For Houston’s growth and distribution of trees across the region. In 2024 alone, Chevron’s giving enabled the planting of 8,000 trees, strengthening Houston’s urban canopy and public spaces.”
Trees For Houston established its first permanent home in 2023 with the opening of The Kinder Campus, housing the Kyle and John Kirksey Center, Chevron Tree Nursery and Bauer Education Center. Ward estimates the organization planted about 25,000 trees in its first 15 years and then scaled dramatically, planting the remaining approximately 990,000 in the years after as programs, partners, and funding expanded. There are two long-term constraints that shape TFH’s strategy. Ward said: (1) Maintenance capacity. (“You don’t want to plant anything you can’t take care of,” he said.)
(2) Physical space in the built environment. To learn more about Trees For Houston, make a contribution, volunteer or sponsor tree planting events, visit TreesForHouston.org.
Photo by Daniel Ortiz
Left to right: Abner Lyons, district liaison for Rep. Harold V. Dutton; Leah Casey, Chevron; Mayor John Whitmire; Barry Ward, Trees For Houston; Mister McKinney, The Heritage Society; Commissioner Rodney Ellis; Ashley DeLeon, Harris County Precinct 4; Sallie Alcorn, Houston City Council.
File photo
When you have an injury, you may wonder what to do next. Should you just walk it off, hope to get an appointment with a doctor the next day, go to an urgent care clinic the same day or head to the ER immediately?
“The big question after an injury is often where to go for medical care, or whether medical care is needed,” said Dr. David Lintner, orthopedic surgeon and chief of sports medicine at Houston Methodist Hospital.
What to Do After an Injury
Deciding what to do after an injury can be stressful. You may feel compelled to push through the pain, but continuing to move the injured area could lead to further damage and a longer recovery time.
“It’s important to recognize that an injury is a sign you’ve pushed your body too far and you need to rest.” Lintner advises the following after an injury:
• Rest the injured area to avoid further injury.
• Apply ice or compression to
reduce swelling. Elevate the injured area.
• Protect your injury by wearing a cast or brace, or using crutches, if needed.
How Serious Is It?
Minor injuries can often be treated at home, but there are times when you should see a doctor to ensure proper healing. Your ability to bear weight on the joint is key. Any injury that triggers swelling in the ankle or knee should also be evaluated.
Warning signs that you should seek medical help right away for more serious injuries include the following:
Any deformity of the limb
• Inability to bear weight
Persistent joint pain
Significant swelling with inability to move fingers or toes
• Swelling of a joint that comes on rapidly
Weakness when moving a limb or muscle
“If you have any doubts, it’s a good idea to get checked out by an orthopedic specialist or sports medicine doctor,” Lintner said.
How Long Will It Take to Heal?
Some injuries take longer to heal compared to others, depending on the location and severity of the injury, your age, overall health and other factors. In addition to home treatment with RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation), a doctor may rec-
Dr. Halie P. Shah, M.D.
Dr. Halie Shah, MD, is a boardcertified internal medicine physician at White Oak Medical Associates. She provides comprehensive care for adult and geriatric patients, managing both acute and chronic conditions. Dr. Shah is committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care and empowering individuals through education to support long-term health and wellness. Welcoming new patients.
1900 North Loop W, Suite 580 • Houston, TX 77018 713-714-5376
Whiteoakmedicalassociates.com
Dr. Jaclyn Harrison, M.D.
Dr. Jaclyn Harrison, a board-certified internal medicine physician, proudly serves the community at her established primary care practice, White Oak Medical Associates. She believes patients deserve their doctor’s focused attention and personalized care, and remains devoted to compassionate, effective treatment for every patient.
1900 North Loop W, Suite 580 • Houston, TX 77018 713-714-5376 Whiteoakmedicalassociates.com
became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate in history.
The industrial clear coat is not only graffiti resistant but protects against UV as well, according to Elia Quiles, cofounder of UP Art Studio.
“I am definitely relieved the clear coat worked because hopefully it’ll discourage people from vandalizing these murals in the first place,” Padilla said.
A former art teacher, Padilla chose Yousafzai as her subject because the activist “literally took a bullet for her right to an education” when a Taliban gunman shot her in 2012. Yousafzai survived and
The mural sits in a visible spot, but Elia Quiles said the repeated targeting likely has more to do with the subject matter than the location.
“Nobody’s vandalizing flowers,” she said. Murals in high-traffic areas like Montrose get tagged more often, she noted, but most neighborhood pieces go untouched.
Mural contracts with UP Art Studio now include three years of graffiti abatement coverage. The Malala mural predates that policy, so
ommend anti-inflammatory medication, cortisone injections or surgery to repair torn muscles or ligaments. For injuries that don’t heal quickly on their own, physical therapy can be a key part of the recovery process. The following are a range of recovery times for common orthopedic injuries:
jury: 4-6 months for recovery from surgery.
Same-Day Orthopedic Injury Clinics
Injuries are bound to happen whether you’re competing in sports, exercising, moving furniture or simply stepping down from the curb. The next time an injury slows you down, come in for quick and convenient same-day care at Houston Methodist Orthopedic Injury Clinics. Though the injury clinic does not treat chronic conditions, spine injuries, motor vehicle accidents or workers’ compensation injuries, the clinic does provide treatments for the following:
• Acute orthopedic injuries
• Ankle sprain: 1-3 weeks for a mild sprain; up to several months for a severe sprain.
• Tennis elbow: Most people improve in 4-6 weeks.
• Shin splints: Up to 3-6 months. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear or rotator cuff in-
• Hamstring strain: A few days for a mild strain; up to 3 months for a partial or complete muscle tear.
• Fractures and broken bones Injured tendons Minor dislocations Painful or swollen joints
• Sports injuries • Sprains and strains • Torn ligaments Call or schedule online for a same-day or next day appointment. houstonmethodist.org/ ortho-injury-clinics
Dr. Lindsey Fogle, MD, is a boardcertified internal medicine physician at White Oak Medical Associates in the Heights. She is dedicated to building strong, lasting relationships with her patients and their families, providing trusted guidance through both everyday health needs and times of illness. Dr. Fogle believes that having a reliable primary care physician is essential for maintaining overall well-being and navigating the healthcare system with confidence. Welcoming new patients.
1900 North Loop W, Suite 580 • Houston, TX 77018 713-714-5376
Kamin’s office covered this restoration. She’s also funding repairs to a voting-themed mural at West Gray Service Center.
“Hate won’t stop the beauty and celebration of our neighborhoods,” Kamin said. “As we saw with the restoration of the Malala Yousafzai mural, the protective coats are an additional layer that protects the art, and in this case, allows for quick remediation. I again thank the community for being so vigilant and supportive. More mini murals that lift up our community are coming.” UP Art Studio painted 60 mini murals across Houston
Dr. Fulton is certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her practice consists of gynecology and is now offering same day gynecological office visits. She is a graduate of the University of Texas and completed residency at St. Vincent’s Medical Center where she was a Chief Resident. Dr. Fulton volunteers as part of the health team ministry of her church.
in 2025, up from 17 the previous year.
Social media has played a big role in the mural’s ongoing story. Padilla learned about each instance of vandalism through online posts, and has also been the recipient of messages of support, offers to help, and words of encouragement.
The community response to this latest restoration has been similar.
“It’s my favorite of all these mini murals,” Mary Newberry Lamb wrote on Facebook. “I’m glad the issue has been corrected. Malala is my hero!”
deo,” White said. Vendors at the artisan market will sell items perfect for rodeo season, including cowboy hats and Westernthemed jewelry. While the Heights Rodeo will not feature bull races, children can compete in races on inflatable horses as part of the carnival games.
The idea sprouted at a first birthday party. Chismar threw a rodeo-themed celebration for her 1-year-old, complete with a petting zoo arranged by Furnish. As friends gathered around the animals, inspiration struck.
The Houston Heights Association, a nonprofit organization that owns Marmion Park, Donovan Park and the fire station, will receive all proceeds. The association hosts community events throughout the year and reinvests funds into neighborhood improvements.
“When we raise money as an association, it just really goes back into the neighborhood,” White said.
The timing is intentional. Organizers scheduled the Heights Rodeo before the start of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to serve as a neighborhood preview of the season rather than compete with the citywide event.
“Our hope is that this is like a prelude to the Houston ro-
The event’s format allows for flexible attendance. The rodeo’s layout spreads across the parking lot as well as the first floor and second floor of the fire station, encouraging guests to move throughout the space.
“It’s really the more, the merrier because a lot of it will be in the parking lot,” White said.
Tommy Erwin, a Houston Heights Association board member who serves as volunteer coordinator, is recruiting helpers. The association is seeking volunteers through its regular channels, email blasts and social media. Katie Tipton, the current Houston Heights Association board president, has overseen planning. White, who served as president in 2025, said she was happy to “pass the reins” to her friend and fellow community leader. The Heights Rodeo takes place Feb. 21 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Heights Fire Station. No registration is required. For more information, see https://houstonheights.org.
RODEO, from P. 1
Dr. Lindsey Fogle, M.D.
Dr. Stephanie Fulton
THE TOPICS.
A look in our years-view mirror
THE YEAR 2046 – “Grand Dad, what did you do in the war?”
“SallyMay, I didn’t do any thing. I got a medical defer ment because I had a bone spur on my foot. I don’t recall which foot or which doctor.”
“I meant the war on woke.”
Ah, that sent me into deep remembrance. Yes, it was 20 years ago, back in 2026, when our world changed. I recall with nostalgia those fall week ends when the UH Coogs took on LSU and Rice lost to Lamar -- the high school, not the university -- and the Longhorns played the Aggies. That ended when those two schools joined the NFL. The move came after their players refused to be drafted because they couldn’t afford the pay cut. (Incidentally classes at both schools were cancelled due to a lack of professors.) Then there were the Astros, who were known as the Houston Walking Wounded. Lance McCullers said he would be ready to play any decade. Meanwhile, the team was about to complete its 20-year rebuilding program. They even brought in a new trash can. We used to watch all those sporting events on network TV. Ah, yes, the TV networks.
Lynn Ashby Columnist
also on the way out. We will have iGlasses. It’s good to know that newspapers have come back. We rediscovered that ink-on-paper comfort food was our only link to what was going on in the rest of the world outside of Fox News. Elon Musk turned off his satellites until he owned everything. Musk had the support of his family – eight ex-wives and 43 children. One time a grandchild (not 43 of them) asked what was a penny? I had to look it up. Hey, don’t laugh. Same for shopping malls and movie theaters along with the Texas Democratic Party. Galveston Island, Sugar Land and Conroe were safe – at low tide. Some claimed climate change
was a hoax, but they all died from the heat. Remember Texas public schools? They went out of business in 2030 due to lack of state funding, so the buildings were converted to Christian abbeys where the students could pray to the God of their choice, as outlined by the New Testament. Actually, our number of young people shrunk quite a bit after Robert Kennedy, Jr. abolished vaccines, bandages and most medical schools.
Bitcoins and cryptocurrency came and went, collapsed when investors discovered there were no such things. That also led to the demise of the New York Stock Exchange. Fortunately, Y’all Street survived as it only dealt in reliable commodities such as wampum, beaver pelts and Dallas Cowboy futures. Likewise AI was a fad, too. We finally realized it’s hard for a computer to make love, fix a perfect martini or receive a smile when we thanked a vet for her service. A machine in Pecos didn’t shake our hand, nor did it bury our dead or even sigh when the Texans folded in the playoffs. On the other hand, a driverless car doesn’t need a tip. Neither do drones.
Due to an overwhelming
demand (the 54th recount in Georgia) enough votes were discovered in a bathroom in Mar-a-Lago to amend the Constitution to allow Donald Trump to be elected to his sixth term as president. He then flew in Wheelchair One, provided by his good friend, President Vladimir Putin. In 2040 President Trump promised he would reveal his 2000 income taxes “as soon as the IRS finishes its audit.” Meanwhile, Congress is still awaiting the rest of the Epstein files. Back in Texas, 2026 saw the end of immigration by everyone else when the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (aka Defenders of Freedom, Patriots of America or Jack Booted Hit Men, Masked Kidnappers and Raiders of the Lost Constitution, depending on your skin color and accent) were finally shifted from Minneapolis to our southern border. Of course, that put an end to house construction, nannies and gardeners. Also, most restaurant closed. CenterPoint Energy announced there was no power blackout. We didn’t know that because of the power blackout. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality de-
clared, “We think there is no air pollution in Pasadena but we can’t find it.” The State Board of Education abolished all teaching of DEI, although one member asked: “DEI? How do you spell it?’
In Austin, most members of the Texas Legislature were arrested for “impersonating a representative legislature.” They soon received a presidential pardon. Former Atty. Gen. Ken Paxton did not receive a pardon and completed his sentence. Governor for Life Greg Abbot, after being told, “I’m tired of waiting,” called out the Texas National Guard to put down the Dan Patrick coup.
On the foreign front, President Trump said he wanted to annex Greenland. Big deal, everyone thought. Who cares? It turned out that the Greenlanders, all 56,000 of them, cared, as did their landlords, the Danes. One thing led to another and pretty soon the Danes’ European allies sent their troops and gunboats to protect Greenland. Washington said the island must be invaded because “it was necessary for America’s safety and, like Iraq, they had nuclear weapons.” When a reporter pointed out that Iraq never
Start of Landmark 20th Year: Kids’ Meals delivers
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Kids’ Meals, Inc., the nation’s only healthy, free home meal delivery program for food-insecure preschool-aged children, is proud to announce the delivery of its 20 millionth meal, a landmark moment in the organization’s ongoing mission to end childhood hunger for Houston’s youngest and most under-resourced children. This milestone reflects 20 million times children had full bellies and 20 million acts of hope for preschool-aged children across Greater Houston. Children under five often fall through the gap of social services addressing food insecurity as they cannot yet access school-based free meal programs. Each lunch Kids’ Meals delivers fuels a growing mind and body in a critical developmental stage, helping set the foundation for a bright,
healthy future.
“Reaching 20 million meals affirms what we already know: when a community comes together, there is no limit to the impact we can make,” said Beth Braniff Harp, CEO of Kids’ Meals, Inc. “Every meal represents a child who is seen, cared for, and supported. And while we celebrate this moment, we are far from done. 100,000 preschool-aged children are food insecure in Harris County, and we are determined to reach every one.”
Kids’ Meals extends heartfelt appreciation to the donors, partners, advocates and more than 40,000 yearly volunteers whose generosity and commitment have made this achievement possible. From assembling sandwiches to decorating bags to investing in long-term support, this milestone belongs to the community that powers Kids’ Meals every single day.
had nuclear weapons and that the Iraq War was a total expensive and bloody disaster, War Secretary Pete Hegseth wisely asked: “What’s your point?” History has not been kind to the Americans of 2026. Fortunately, our situation has changed, or as President Gerald Ford said after taking over from the disgraced Richard Nixon and the debacle of Watergate: “Our long national nightmare is over.” Twenty years later there are no schools, parks or hospitals named for the leaders of that time. The world once again looks to our nation as a beacon of liberty, stability and McDonald’s McNuggets. “Grand Dad, what’s a book?”
In 2046 Ashby is still 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.
Photo courtesy of Kids’ Meals
Houston SPCA to host Valentine’s Weekend Pet Adoption Event
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Adult Dogs and Cats are Available for a $14 Adoption Package on Feb. 14 & 15
Looking for a committed and loyal relationship? This Valentine’s weekend, Houston SPCA invites the community to open their hearts and homes to a pet in need with a special offer. Adult dogs and cats are available for $14, which includes a comprehensive adoption package. To make the weekend event even sweeter, each adopter will receive a red rose and a Houston SPCA pet bandana.
The $14 adoption package includes a health exam, microchip, spay or neuter surgery, most current vaccinations, a sample bag of Hill’s Pet Nutrition pet food, and a complimentary post-adoption exam at VCA Animal Hospital.
Regular adoption fees for adult dogs and cats at the Houston SPCA typically range from $35 to $105.
The Extra Benefits of Pet Adoption:
• Boosts Heart Health: Pet ownership can help lower blood pressure and encourage physical activity, reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Reduce Stress: Spending time with pets lowers stress hormones and increases feelings of calm and happiness.
• Encourages Daily Movement: Walking and playing with pets promote regular activity and healthier daily routines.
Adoption counselors will be available to help find the right match based on lifestyle and compatibility. The following tips from the Houston SPCA can help you determine if your heart is ready for adoption.
The Valentine’s Weekend Pet Adoption Event will be held Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Houston SPCA Adoption Center, 7007 Old Katy Road, Houston, TX 77024.
View all available pets at HoustonSPCA.org
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Heights-based nonprofit Communities In Schools of Houston (CIS) has released its 2024–2025 annual report, highlighting the organization’s impact across Greater Houston, where it benefited more than 118,000 students at 135 campuses during the 2024–2025 school year, as well as its financial data and key accomplishments. School districts served include Alief, Houston, Royal, Spring, and Spring Branch, along with three charter networks, and the Lone Star College system. CIS of Houston works directly inside schools by placing at least one full-time Student Support Specialist on every partner campus. These trusted professionals collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to identify student needs early and respond in real time—helping students succeed in school and achieve in life.
The nonprofit’s integrated approach combines one-onone student support with systemwide resources, providing both immediate assistance and long-term opportunities for success. The organization delivers services through six core areas: Supportive Guidance and Counseling; Academic Support; Health & Human Services; College & Career Readiness; Parent & Family Engagement; and Enrichment Activities.
During the 2024–2025 school year, CIS of Houston collaborated with 287 community partner agencies to help students overcome barriers to success and connect families with critical resources.
Impact highlights include:
• 118,479 students served through campus-wide events
• 37,981 students supported
through walk-in services
9,781 students received intensive case-management services
352,604 hours of intervention services delivered across six core service areas
“For 47 years, CIS has provided targeted services that help students stay in school, graduate on time, and reach their full potential,” said Lisa Descant, CEO of Communities In Schools of Houston. “By building strong relationships with students and families, our programs make a difference— through individual counseling, campus-wide initiatives, access to resources, our Mental Health Initiative, and workforce readiness programs.”
During the 2024–2025 school year, the overwhelming majority of students participating in CIS programs experienced positive outcomes, including:
• 98% of students in grades
7–12 remained in school
• 97% of students were pro-
moted to the next grade level
• 97% of high school seniors graduated
• 96% of students showed improvement in academics, attendance, and/or behavior
• 66% reenrollment, transfer, and graduation rate for CIS college students—significantly higher than the national average While CIS of Houston’s work is campus-based, the organization also conducted 460 home visits to strengthen family engagement and attendance. In addition, CIS provided 346,674 referrals to community agencies and responded to 3,527 crisis situations affecting students and families.
Mental health remains a focus, with CIS of Houston being the largest provider of schoolbased mental health services in Harris County. Through the Mental Health Initiative, students receive specialized
care that strengthens relationships and supports emotional well-being. Its comprehensive three-part model includes on-campus licensed mental health professionals, a Mobile Mental Health Team serving additional campuses, and strategic partnerships with external mental health providers.
Mental health service statistics for the 2024–2025 school year include:
• 8,143 students served by CIS licensed mental health professionals 586 students served by CIS licensed mental health partners
• 90 campuses with CIScoordinated mental health services
• 23,253 hours of mental health support provided
Additional highlights from the 2024–2025 school year include:
In February 2025, CIS of Houston partnered with Houston Grand Opera to host its first-ever CIS Night at the Opera, bringing together more than 1,700 students, educators, and family members for a shared cultural experience.
CIS continued supporting students through summer 2025 with ongoing services, scholarships, and externship opportunities. Programs such as the CIS/ Houston Bar Association Legal Internship Program and Houston Methodist’s Patient Care Assistant/Smithwood Certified Nursing Assistant Program offered professional experience, potential state certification, and employment opportunities.
In partnership with AT&T, CIS of Houston provided nearly 100 refurbished laptops to students at Taylor High School in the Alief Independent School District in early December.
In the past fiscal year, CIS
Photos courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston CIS CEO Lisa Descant and Lourdes Jimenez with Spring Forest Middle School students Heidi, Angel and Karla.
Photos courtesy of Houston
STAFF REPORTS
Did we miss it? Please email info about incoming and outgoing businesses to editor@ theleadernews.com.
COMING SOON:
Blushington
Luxury beauty service
brand Blushington is expanding into the Houston market with two new franchise locations, marking the company’s first entries in Texas. The concept focuses on express, high-end beauty services designed for everyday occasions and special events alike. The expansion reflects the brand’s continued national growth and Houston’s strong demand for fast, polished beauty experiences. INFO: blushington.com/pages/franchise
NOW OPEN: El Tiempo Cantina (POST Houston)
El Tiempo Cantina has opened a new downtown location at POST Houston, adding another outpost to the longtime Tex-Mex favorite’s local lineup. The 7,500-square-foot restaurant seats 230 guests, features a full bar and private dining spaces, and is positioned as a go-to stop before
or after concerts and events at the nearby 713 Music Hall. With this opening, the brand now operates 18 locations across the Houston area. WHERE: POST Houston, next to 713 Music Hall INFO: eltiempocantina.com
NOW OPEN: Johnny Ritas Cocina y Cantina (Lindale Park)
Opening in early February 2026, Johnny Ritas Cocina y Cantina is bringing livefire-driven Mexican cuisine to Lindale Park. The menu blends Tex-Mex favorites with Oaxacan traditions and Baja-inspired seafood, all prepared over mesquite and charcoal. The restaurant will offer daily service along with weekend brunch. WHERE: 5602 Fulton St., Houston INFO: @johnnyritashtx
NOW OPEN: Long Weekend (Heights)
Long Weekend is a new destination restaurant focused on Western-inspired cuisine, craft cocktails, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The concept features wood-fired cooking, an elevated beverage program, and expansive indoor-outdoor space designed for both casual gatherings and full evenings out. A dedicated play area and kid-focused activities are built into the experience. INFO: @longweekendtx
NOW OPEN: Sushi Horiuchi (Montrose area)
Now open at 2701 W. Dallas St., Sushi Horiuchi is an intimate six-seat omakase restaurant centered on a highly personalized dining experience. The restaurant hosts one seating per night and focuses on seasonally driven menus and premium ingredients. Reservations are required, with seatings offered Tuesday through Sunday.
WHERE: 2701 W. Dallas St., Houston, TX 77019 INFO: sushi-horiuchi.com
NOW OPEN: Hand & Stone Massage (Summer St.)
Hand & Stone Massage has soft opened in the Heights ahead of its official February opening. The spa offers massages, facials, and toning services, with introductory pricing starting at $79.95 for first-time visits. This marks the brand’s 22nd location in the Houston region. WHERE: 2770 Summer St., Ste. 100C, Houston INFO: handandstone.com
COMING SOON: Sugared + Bronzed (Rice Village)
Sugared + Bronzed is opening its fourth Houston location in Rice Village, expanding the brand’s footprint in one of Houston’s busiest shopping districts. The studio specializes in sunless tanning and sugaring hair removal services. WHERE: 2401 Times Blvd., Suite 100, Houston INFO: sugaredandbronzed. com
NOW OPEN: Alturas Mexican Cafe (Airline Drive)
Alturas Mexican Cafe has opened on Airline Drive, serving traditional Mexican dishes
rooted in family recipes. The menu includes enchiladas, street tacos, and regional specialties such as pambazo, milanesa, and quecas, along with breakfast options like chilaquiles and pancakes. Breakfast is served from 7 a.m. to noon, with lunch available from noon to 8 p.m.
Succulent Fine Dining has closed at Regent Square, with its final service held Feb. 5, 2026. The California-inspired restaurant cited ongoing access, parking, and valet limitations at the site as factors impacting guest experience. The closure ends the concept’s run focused on seasonal, sustainability-driven cuisine.
NOW OPEN: Studio Pulse (Heights)
Studio Pulse offers a mix of dance cardio, mat Pilates, yoga, sculpt, and recovery classes, with both heated and non-heated options available. Single class passes are available, along with membership packages.
WHERE: 600 N. Shepherd Drive, Ste. 449, Houston INFO: studiopulse.com
NOW OPEN: Serenity Mental Health Centers (Galleria area)
Serenity Mental Health Centers has opened a new clinic in the Galleria area and begins seeing patients Feb. 18. The clinic offers sameday psychiatric appointments along with services including evaluations, medication management, TMS, and ketamine infusion therapy, expanding outpatient mental health care access for Houston residents. WHERE: 3355 W. Alabama St., Ste. 1100, Houston, TX 77098 INFO: serenitymentalhealthcenters.com/ texas-psychiatry-clinics
PHONE: 346-537-7789
NOW OPEN: Flora & More (Heights)
Flora & More, a membersonly wholesale orchid market, has opened in the Heights, marking the brand’s first location outside Florida. The market serves florists, garden centers, and interiorscapers with grower-direct orchids, live goods, and supplies, along with planning and inventory support. Membership is free for verified industry professionals, with ordering available in person or through the company’s mobile app. WHERE: 707 N. Shepherd Drive, Ste. 200, Houston INFO: floraandmore.com
FREEKICKS Program to upgrade soccer fields at Moody and Keith-Wiess parks ahead of World Cup
STAFF REPORTS
Two major Precinct 2 parks will receive significant soccer field improvements ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ as part of a countywide initiative to renovate and expand access to youth sports facilities.
Harris County Commissioners Court recently approved an agreement with the Sports Authority Foundation to support the FREEKICKS Soccer Program, which will renovate 25 soccer fields across the county. In Precinct 2, the program will fund upgrades to four fields at Moody Park and four fields at Keith-Wiess Park through an interlocal agreement with the City of Houston.
The improvements are designed to strengthen park infrastructure while expanding opportunities for youth soccer participation, particularly among underserved communities.
“Growing up in Latin America, I’ve seen the power of soccer as a common language that can bring people of all backgrounds together and empower communities,” said Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. “Not only will the FIFA World Cup bring an incredible economic impact to our community, but it will help us improve our park infrastructure and further unite Harris County around a common language: soccer.”
The FREEKICKS program is a collaborative effort between the Sports Authority Foundation and the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston Host City Committee. In addition to Precinct 2, field improvements are planned in all four Harris County precincts.
Precinct 1 will see upgrades at Alabonson Park and Blue Ridge Park. Precinct 3 will add eight new soccer fields at the Baytown Soccer Complex. Precinct 4 will receive improvements to four fields at George Bush Park.
By repairing and building soccer fields throughout the county, the initiative aims to grow the next generation of soccer players and engage youth ages 6 to 18 in advance of one of the world’s largest sporting events.
Harris County is scheduled to host seven FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches this summer. According to the Harris County–Houston Sports Authority, the games are expected to generate approximately $1.5 billion
STAFF REPORTS
Please email entries to editor@ theleadernews.com.
FEBRUARY 12–15
The Great Benjamins Circus at West Oaks Mall
What: The Great Benjamins Circus makes its Houston debut with a 90-minute Big Top spectacular featuring clowns, acrobats, aerialists, daredevils, motorbike performers, and extreme riders. A traditional circus with modern thrills, presented by a third-generation circus family. When: Feb. 12–15 (multiple showtimes)
Cobweb is a scrappy little survivor who was alone and wandering the streets of Houston, but was thankfully found by a good Samaritan and
What: A Valentine’s celebration inviting guests to explore immersive color installations, with a complimentary photo print and frame to capture the moment.
When: Friday, Feb. 13, 4 p.m. until closing Where: Color Factory, 3303 Kirby
Drive
Cost: Ticketed event Info: colorfactory.co
Pal-entine’s Party at Radiant
Nature
What: A 21+ evening at Houston
Botanic Garden featuring complimentary drink tastings, take-home crafts, live music, photo ops, and access to the Radiant Nature winter light experience.
When: Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Where: Houston Botanic Garden, 1 Botanic Lane
Cost: Tickets start at $68
Info: hbg.org/events
FEBRUARY 14
HGO Family Day: Hansel and Gretel
What: A 90-minute, Englishlanguage Family Day performance of Hansel and Gretel in a relaxed, kid-friendly environment with crafts, photo ops, and character interactions.
When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m.
Where: Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave.
Cost: $25–$157.50 Info: HGO.org/FamilyDay or 713228-6737
in economic impact — the equivalent of hosting seven Super Bowls — and bring more than 500,000 visitors from around the world to the region.
County officials say the FREEKICKS investments ensure that the benefits of hosting the World Cup extend beyond the matches themselves, leaving a lasting legacy in neighborhood parks like Moody and Keith-Wiess that serve families year-round.
Tapas on the Trails
What: A romantic twilight walk along softly lit Arboretum trails, featuring six tapas courses paired with craft beers and curated wines. Ages 21+ only; proceeds support conservation and education programs.
When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 5–9 p.m.
(last trail entry 7:15 p.m.)
Where: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, 4501 Woodway Dr.
What: A 21+ Valentine’s night at Houston Botanic Garden featuring complimentary drink tastings, takehome crafts, live music, and access to the Radiant Nature winter light experience.
When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Where: Houston Botanic Garden, 1 Botanic Lane
Cost: Tickets start at $68
Info: hbg.org/events
FEBRUARY 16–19
TALC Senior Program Spring Semester Registration
What: Seniors ages 60 and older are invited to register for activities and classes for the spring semester.
Lunar New Year Celebration: Platform Dragon Dance at River Oaks
District What: River Oaks District kicks off its Lunar New Year festivities with a traditional Platform Dragon Dance honoring the Year of the Horse through music and movement.
When: Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, 4 p.m.
Where: The Park at River Oaks District (next to Bari)
Cost: Free
Info: riveroaksdistrict.com/events/ lunarnewyear
FEBRUARY 17–23
Lunar New Year at Color Factory
What: A weeklong Lunar New Year celebration featuring traditional red envelopes, immersive experiences, and chances to win red and gold prizes.
What: An evening of music and storytelling honoring resilience, strength, and unity.
When: Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Evelyn Rubenstein
Jewish Community Center, 5601 S. Braeswood Blvd.
Cost: Ticketed event Info: erjcchouston.org
FEBRUARY 20–22
Free Pet Wellness Services for District H Residents
What: Free pet wellness services including vaccinations, deworming, heartworm testing for dogs, and microchipping for dogs and cats with owner consent.
When: Feb. 20–22, 2026 (appointments required)
Where: Location provided upon registration
Cost: Free (District H residents only)
Info: tinyurl.com/PetWellnessAppt
FEBRUARY 21
Heights Rodeo
What: The inaugural Heights Rodeo brings a community celebration with family activities, local vendors, live music, and food, adding a touch of Western flair to the neighborhood.
When: Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, 2–6 p.m.
Where: Historic Houston Heights Fire Station, 107 W. 12th St.
Cost: Free Info: houstonheights.org
Lee College Bowl-A-Thon for Empty Bowls Houston
What: A hands-on Bowl-A-Thon inviting all ages and skill levels to create bowls for the Empty Bowls
Houston fundraiser benefiting the Houston Food Bank.
When: Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Lee College Ceramics Department, McNulty Haddick Building, Room W26/28, 805 W. Texas Ave., Baytown Cost: Free Info: emptybowlshouston.org or 281-425-6484
Lunar New Year Celebration at River Oaks District
What: An afternoon of Lunar New Year festivities featuring complimen-
tary boba, themed cocktails, origami activities, photo activations, and a High Pole acrobatic performance.
When: Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, 2–5 p.m. (High Pole performance at 3 p.m.)
Art Valet: Stella Coupé’s fluid worlds of color and motion
When trying to come up with an introduction to artist Stella Coupé, “Excitement with a French accent” popped into my head immediately. Stella is memorable for her enthusiasm, kindness, and the genuine attention she gives to whomever she’s speaking with. Honestly, I can’t recall exactly how long I’ve known her, but I do know this: when Stella appears, the party starts. In a way, then, we’re all finally getting to know this fine artist together.
Stella Coupé grew up in France, where she worked as a professor teaching accounting, logistics, and computer science. Creativity was always present through photography, sketching, and design experiments, even amid her technical career. A pivotal move to the United States with her husband, Philippe Coupé, marked a turning point. Leaving behind her established life in France, she fully embraced her artistic calling.
Inspired by travel, underwater diving, and the interplay of motion and color, Coupé’s work reflects a blend of analytical precision and free-flowing exploration. Her adventurous spirit, rooted in everything from former cycling days in France to global dives, quietly fuels the energy and rhythm in her fluid, mixed-media pieces.
What sparked your passion for creating art?
“My passion for art began very early as a quiet refuge. As a child, I was shy and spent hours reading, playing sports, and filling notebooks with small sketches and doodles. Creating felt natural. It became a private space where I could express myself freely and explore emotions and imagination without words.
“As I grew older, that instinct never left me. When I discovered fluid techniques, I felt I had found a visual lan-
Mitch cohen Art Columnist artvalet@gmail.com
guage that matched my inner world. The balance between intention and unpredictability mirrors how I experience life. Art remains a space where I can dream, experiment, and translate emotion into something visible that others can connect with.”
What first attracted you to fluid painting, and how have you developed your own style beyond the basic techniques many beginners try?
“I was drawn to fluid painting because it blends art with physics and chemistry, creating work that feels alive and in constant motion. I collaborate with my husband, Philippe Coupé, on splash photography projects, and my current focus is mixed media and resin, experimenting with how inks, pigments, and liquids interact on the surface.
“Instead of using a traditional brush, I guide paint through gravity and airflow, carefully directing its movement to build intentional compositions. What fascinates me is the balance between control and unpredictability. I design the conditions, but the materials retain their own voice. Developing my style has been about learning to work within that dialogue and refining it into a visual language that feels distinctly my own.”
What are you currently working on?
“I’m currently working on a new group of pieces from my Texas in Color series. Each
New
work is created on a wooden panel shaped like the state of Texas and features imagined landscapes inspired by horizons, oceans, and abstract floral forms. Using alcohol ink, pigments, and resin, I build layered compositions that suggest distant skies, shifting terrain, and luminous color atmospheres.
“Within the familiar outline of Texas, I enjoy creating small dreamlike worlds that balance movement and serenity. Each piece becomes a visual journey, inviting viewers to project their own memories and emotions into the scene.”
What are your future plans or goals?
“As a self-taught artist, I’m always looking for ways to grow and evolve my practice. I’ve been exploring the fusion of art and technology by integrating augmented reality into my work, extending pieces beyond the physical surface into an interactive experience.
“Looking ahead, I’m interested in exploring new directions, such as bioluminescent effects and interactive sound
elements. I’m drawn to projects that engage multiple senses and invite viewers to experience art in unexpected ways, while continuing to develop my mixed media work across a range of scales.”
Where can people find your work—online, social media, upcoming shows, besides First Saturday?
“People can find my work at art markets and exhibitions throughout Texas, as well as select regional shows within a day’s drive. I’ve previously exhibited in cities such as Atlanta and Kansas and plan to return to both this year. I share my latest work and upcoming events on Instagram and Facebook at @splashfineart and through my website, www.splashfineart.com, where I regularly post new pieces and show schedules. My work is also available directly through my studio.”
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit ArtValet.com for more.
art commission in the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern explores currents of communication
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Buffalo Bayou Partnership (BBP) is pleased to announce a major site-specific commission by world-recognized artist Rafeal Lozano-Hemmer (b.1967, Mexico City) in the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern. Lozano-Hemmer is a Montreal-based multi-media artist working at the intersection of architecture and performance art, who blends audience participation and technology, resulting in transformative experiences.
“Undercurrents” will construct an interactive chamber of voice messages that travel as light pulses along a network of catenaries across the cavernous Cistern, leading to an audiovisual representation of communication across time, space, and relationships. The work consists of a milelong, nerve-like labyrinth of white LED linear lights extending between the space’s 221 columns, suspended just above the mirrored surface of water covering the floor. The resulting matrix of zigzagging lines of light creates a seemingly endless visual “switchboard” of connection across the entire width and length of the Cistern, an effect doubled
by the uncanny reflectivity of the water pooled at the bottom of this significant piece of Houston’s infrastructural history.
A system of intercoms is linked to the network of lights placed at regular intervals along the quarter-mile perimeter of the space, each consisting of a microphone, speaker, and push button. The intercoms beckon visitors to press a button, speak, and record brief messages, which are then encoded into modulations of light brightness and visually transmitted along a linear path within the switchboard. These visual pathways fork and bounce around the vastness, traveling steadily until reaching another intercom. The spirit of the artwork is that the exchange of voice recordings is slow, unpredictable, and contains traces of memories of what people say in the present, combined with an archive of curated voices from the past. Specially selected content of recorded poetry by Houston writers will amplify the presentation, acting as an “echo” of the messages shared by visitors. A mix of original and new site-responsive materials will cultivate a more complex and reflective environment, transcending time and space through spoken word. "’Undercurrents’ aims to
create a choral work where live voice messages from participants are mixed with poetry commissioned from some of Texas's most salient authors. The project is made in the spirit of 'coming together' that the great American composer Frederic Rzewski proposed as the most important objective of art at a time of turmoil,” explained Rafael Lozano-Hemmer. Ultimately, “Undercurrents” is an audiovisual forum of the thoughts and messages of its participants, playing back in tandem with resonant poetry. As visitors traverse the artwork, they may add to or simply witness this creation, experiencing the piece like a
mesmerizing reservoir that makes tangible our fleeting vocalizations of existing here, now, and in relation to others. Each instance of the installation will be unique, continually shaped and changed by the visitors who interact with it.
“As our first truly interactive installation in the Cistern, ‘Undercurrents’ offers visitors not only something to behold, but something to become a part of,” said BBP's Vice President of External Affairs, Karen Farber. “It is such an honor to witness Rafael’s inventive studio responding to the unique conditions of the Cistern and we can’t wait for audiences see – and hear – the space through this new artwork.”
“Undercurrents” will be on view to the public beginning April 24, 2026, with tours available Wednesday through Sunday. Multiple public programs, including readings and performances featuring contributing writers, will be presented throughout the run of the installation. Reinforcing BBP’s commitment to accessibility, free admission is offered on the first Thursday of each month; discounted tickets are available for students, seniors, and military; and the Cistern itself is ADA compliant. This project is organized by Buffalo Bayou Partnership with lead underwriting generously provided by The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation. Major support provided by John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation and VIA Art Fund with additional support provided by an Anonymous Donor; Mara and Erick Calderon; and Jereann Chaney. Buffalo Bayou Partnership is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance. Project management and curatorial collaboration provided by Weingarten Art Group. For more information, visit buffalobayou.org/2026-undercurrents.
Submitted photoS
Stella Coupé at her outdoor booth, amid her Texas-shaped artworks.
Stella Coupé pours resin onto a panel in her studio, guiding the flow to create luminous layers in her signature fluid style.
Coupé adds fine details with a brush to circular resin pieces, building eyelike motifs from alcohol inks and pigments.
“Ice Diva,” a circular piece by Stella Coupé, features shattered edges in blues and purples radiating from a central golden face.
“Texas,” from Coupé’s series, evokes a sunset horizon in layered oranges, purples and greens on a Texas-shaped panel.
“ExtravaYanZa II,” Stella Coupé’s circular resin artwork, blends yin-yang forms in purple, gold and teal with embedded crystals and black accents.
Stella Coupé’s “Phoenix” rises in fiery resin swirls and metallic accents, evoking rebirth through layered pigments and minerals.
Photos courtesy of the artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer
Rendering of “Undercurrents”in the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer
