Heights Pages Summer 2024

Welcome to the Heights Pages!

T

hrough our modest medium, we hope to provide a resource serving the residents of the Heights and surrounding areas on the events, services, products and heritage of our unique community. As a 39 year resident of the area and now through the course of publishing the “Pages,” since 1998, I am reminded almost daily of the eclectic nature of our neighborhood. With the cooperation of our business people and long time residents as contributing writers, we hope to inform, educate and entertain. Enjoy!

“The Heights Pages” has made all reasonable effort to verify the accuracy of the claims and articles within. Responsibility for the claims and facts of our writers and advertisers rests solely with them.

I nside the P ages

A/C Tex Cooling & Heating 19, 35

Alabama Furniture 10, 34, 48

Alexander Custom Homes of Houston 16, 39

Anhorn, Amanda & Rich –Realtor® 17, 40

Avanta Medical Clinic 21, 47

B

Bayou City Aire, LLC 23, 43

BeYoutiful Anti Aging Studio 10, 42

Big Blue Whale 49 Bliss on 19th 49

Brookdale The Heights

Senior Living Solutions 12, 32

Budget Blinds

Greater Heights 24, 38

C

C&D Hardware & Gifts 14, 26, 48

Cariloha Bamboo Houston 49

Chappell Hill Chamber of Commerce 11, 31 Construction & Design by Javier Juarez 48

Custom Garages 29, 32

Cynthia Hill Properties 7, 26

Greenwood King Properties 3, 26

Nan & Company Properties 13, 36

Nippon Japanese Restaurant 21, 29

Nuvo Builders, LLC 25, 27

Door Clearance Center 6, 52

Dramatika Custom Framing 48

Harmony Electric 16, 30

Heights Boulevard 50

Heights Dermatology 17, 37

Heights Pages cityart51@sbcglobal.net & www.heightspages.com 2

Heights Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 14, 32

HITS Theater 12, 32

Oeser, Phyllis A. –Attorney at Law 26, 42, 49

Payless Insulation 23, 41

Eclectic Home 26, 28, 48, 52

ECO Construction, LLC 6, 36

Elizabeth Cole Design 46

iHeart HoustonCurb Appeal Blues 21, 41

Immanuel Lutheran School 24, 27 Interiors by Sandra 21, 28

J

Joshua’s Native Plants &

Garden Antiques, Inc. 20

Jubilee 26, 35, 48

Rice Organization, Inc. (The) 27, 40

Robert’s Floors, Inc. 23, 33

Eros

Mortgage Company –Lana Sadler 49 Seerden Law Firm, PLLC (The) 7, 31

Servpro Houston Heights 18, 33

Shana Ross Fitness 23, 36

Shawn Manderscheid Team 5, 27

Kingshill Martini Group 22, 26

Landscape Innovations 26, 32

La Paz Day Spa & Salon 17, 38

Levine, Debbie – Realtor® 11, 31

Lloyd Financial 21, 33

Shop Local – Heights, Garden Oaks & Oak Forest 48-49

Steitz, Sandy - Realtor® 25, 29

Studio A Salon 15, 27

Texas Loan Star Inc. 19, 26

Thole, CNHP Erin 18, 33

True North 44

Kymn Harrison Fine Art 16, 34 Venus Hair 49

Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty 8-9, 26

Mattei, Yenny – Realtor® 26, 39

Merle Norman Cosmetics and Boutique 49

Mullins, Cynthia - Realtor 2, 47

Vivaldi Music Academy 7, 43

Yale Street Dog House & Bakery 10, 30

Meet ECO Construction

We are remodeling experts with more than 30 years of experience serving Houston and surrounding areas. Our vast knowledge of Texas construction styles and trends gives us an invaluable advantage over our competitors.

Our vast knowledge of Texas construction styles, materials, and trends gives us a competitive advantage. Our flexible teams can work on exterior and interior reconditioning projects, no matter how complex or simple the requirements.

We are qualified and experienced to carry out almost any repair in your home whether exterior or interior. Our extensive construction experience allows us to deal with many aspects of home repair such as plumbing, electrical, flooring, roofing, painting, texturing, floating, drywall, framework, cabinetry, countertops, doors, and windows, to name a few. We even do foundation and concrete construction.

Need a New Door?

Since 1999, the Door Clearance Center has sold over 1,000,000 doors from our outlet store in Houston, Texas. Why pay hundreds in shipping charges and wait months for a back order? Shop locally, pick the door you want, and take it home today!

Whether it’s a classic craftsman or something a bit more modern, nothing beats the warmth of a wooden front door. At Door Clearance Center, we have hundreds of mahogany and knotty alder wood doors to choose from. Looking for a low maintenance door? Choose from our extensive fiberglass collection that won’t dent, rot or rust. For those that want to stand out from the crowd, consider one of our many hand-forged wrought iron doors, in stock! Or if you are looking to modernize your home with a sliding door, we are your #1 source for barn doors and hardware track kits.

We have the tools and experience to repair efficiently and economically. Our extensive knowledge of construction materials allows us to affect any repair, bring your home back to perfection, or even modify things you desire.

If you seek high-quality work, our craftsmanship is second to none. Once again, our years of experience provide us with plenty of knowledge to affect the repair in the most professional way possible. We only make things better.

This summer if you are in need of shade and or an outdoor living space, we also do patio covers, pergolas, outdoor kitchens and shade structures.

or

Need New Cabinets?

Door Clearance Center is also your #1 source for discount cabinets. We have the latest styles of kitchen cabinets in stock, with premium features never found at these prices.

Visit our 40,000 square foot warehouse and buy your new dream door today!

Why Choose a “Board Certified” Attorney?

Lawyers often cite various accomplishments, awards and even “expertise” on their websites and advertisements. However, the Texas Board of Legal Specialization was established by the Supreme Court of

Texas as the only governing board authorized to certify attorneys in legal specialty areas.

Board certification is a mark of excellence and a distinguishing accomplishment. There are more than 100,000 lawyers licensed to practice law in Texas. Only 7,400 of these have earned the right to be publicly recognized as Board Certified specialists in one of 24 select areas of law, including personal injury trial law. Board certified lawyers earn the right to publicly represent themselves as a specialist in their select area of law. They are the only attorneys allowed to do so by the State Bar of Texas. This designation sets them apart as being an attorney with the highest public commitment to excellence in their area of law.

I have been Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 2008. I am one of only 1,704 Texas attorneys that hold this specialized certification.

In order to achieve and retain this status, I have had to meet an extensive list of qualifications, including:

• Being licensed to practice law for at least five years (I have been licensed since 1998)

• Devoting a specific percentage of my practice to personal injury law

• Handling a wide variety of matters in personal injury law to demonstrate my experience and involvement in the field

• Regularly attending continuing education seminars in order to remain up to date on the current trends in law

• Evaluation by peers, including fellow lawyers and judges

• Passing a comprehensive 6-hour written examination

• Applying for recertification every five years

• Trying a requisite number of cases to a jury verdict, including personal injury cases

If you would like to speak to a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer, please call me today.

A property blending charm, income potential, and endless possibilities. Property includes a 4-plex with 4 one bedroom apts and a separate 2 story garage apt with it’s own private fenced yard. Ideal for savvy investors seeking a lucrative income stream or visionary homeowners aspiring to craft their dream home.

W. 20th

603 W. 11th St., Suite 200 Houston, TX 77008 713.526.6700 andrew.seerden@seerden-law.com www.facebook.com/TheSeerdenLawFirm

We at YSDH offer full grooming services for dogs up to 45 pounds by appointments.

We have three groomers who have a total of over 20 years-experience and are certified through AKC as well as Canine/Feline CPR & First Aid Certified. They also attend certification classes so that they can continue their education in the field; learning new techniques as well as perfecting their breed specific cuts.

We offer grooming sessions by appointment, Monday thru Friday. When you arrive for your appointment, you can expect to have a consultation with your groomer about the cut, style, and any changes or concerns you may have.

An average groom can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours to finish, depending on the coat, cut, style, size of dog, and age of dog. All this can be discussed at drop off.

We offer a full bath and shampoo using safe oatmeal-based shampoos, brush outs, full hair cut or maintenance, as wells as cleanups, Nail Dremel, ear cleaning, anal gland expressions, along with spa packages, specialty shampoos, and mud baths.

We also offer hand stripping and color accents.

Give us a call to set up your dog’s grooming session.

We Also Offer Full-Service Grooming, and our all-natural dog bakery carries a variety of fresh-baked treats, cakes, and dog pastries.

www.yalestreetdoghouse.com

Visit Chappell Hill Texas

Making plans for a day trip, or a weekend getaway but don’t want to travel too far, then look no further than Chappell Hill, Texas. Less than an hour away from downtown Houston, Chappell Hill offers a charming town with plenty to do for you and your special someone or for the entire family.

Chappell Hill provides an escape from the big city to a small town with plenty of shopping, dining, entertainment and overnight lodging opportunities. Enjoy an art gallery, fine leather shop, garden center and home décor, local winery, museum, and night life with the town’s favorite icehouse and local wine bar with nightly entertainment. Or book a stay at many of our local B&B’s, explore the countryside, Washington on the Brazos State Park, and Washington County as you enjoy beautiful sunsets and starry nights.

Chappell Hill has plenty of events for you to choose from including the annual Independence Day Parade on July 4 at 10AM in downtown Chappell Hill. You do not want to miss this year’s parade featuring everything from the World-Famous Marching Kazoo Band to exotic cars, amazing floats and a wide variety of other entries. Then on August 10 be sure to make your way to Chappell Hill to enjoy our 3rd annual “Wine & Cheese Stroll". Enjoy some fantastic cheeses, wines and, of course, the uniqueness of downtown Chappell Hill.

And for all the quilters – mark your calendars for September 14 and come enjoy a day in the country with beautiful quilts throughout downtown in our local businesses and historical buildings. There will be classes and plenty of activities for all to enjoy. Then on October 12 & 13 be sure to spend the weekend in the country for the annual Scarecrow Festival.

As you can see, Chappell Hill has plenty to offer everyone throughout the summer. Be sure to check our calendar for fun fall events! Can’t wait to see everyone in historic Chappell Hill. www.chappellhilltx.com

The Heart Of The Houston Heights Welcome To Fidelity National Title Heights Office. We Provide Seamless Closing And Title Services For All Of Your Real Estate Needs. Swing By And Say Hello!

The Laird Law Firm, P.C. they receive.

Gardening Day at Brookdale

If you’re looking for a senior living community that knows its residents are not ‘sit on the sidelines’ kind of folks, then Brookdale The Heights in Houston, TX, might be the right fit for you. With both assisted living and memory care on a single campus, you’ll have customized care to fit your needs. Rooted in a personcentered approach, our memory care program helps our residents find a sense of belonging and purpose while also helping them preserve who they are.

“If you have a green thumb, visit us at Brookdale The Heights Assisted Living and Memory Care. No matter what, we’ll find a way to ensure you have the opportunity to pursue your passions. It’s the season for

gardening and our residents are sharing influential knowledge of our grounds and springing into action. Gardening is known to lighten mood and lower levels of stress and anxiety; where you live or your age shouldn’t keep you from its joy.”

All Amenities

Emergency Alert System, Parking-Surface, Library, Beauty/Barber Shop, Courtyard and Garden, Gardening/Greenhouse, Porch, Therapy Room, Game Room, Walking Paths, Landscaped Grounds, Fireside Living Room, Community Kitchen, Meeting Rooms, Community Room (Rental Space), Postal Services, Piano & Personal Solutions

Catherine

Nelda & Catherine Aynur

Nelda

Summertime with your favorite pediatric dental and orthodontic team!

Summertime is the busiest time of the year for our team, and we love it! With kids being out of school and parents often taking time off or having a bit more flexible schedule, we get to see all our favorite pediatric and orthodontic patients. Here is our guide to summer dental checkups!

First, schedule your checkups early in the summer. This will give you time to plan out other appointments in case your little one needs cavities filled, orthodontic appliances placed, or even wisdom teeth extracted. If we see you early, we always make room in our schedule to make sure that everything is taken care of before school starts back up.

If your little one needs any appliances such as expanders or thumb sucking appliances, it is much easier to get used to them without the pressures of school. With some of the shorter treatment plans, you can get through most of them in the summer months! Nobody worries about speech or lunch getting stuck in braces before they learn how to clean them well, if they do not have to face friends and teachers. We also have time to make sure that good habits and oral hygiene are built for those patients with braces so they can go back to school with bright and healthy smiles in the

fall.

For some of our high schoolers getting close to college time, we can plan out last-minute checks and maintenance such as making sure that orthodontic retainers fit, making grinding or sports mouth guards, or referring for wisdom teeth extractions to our friendly oral surgeons.

Some of our patients need to be seen in the mornings due to their young age or because they have dental anxiety. It is much easier to schedule those appointments without worrying about missing school and we love getting all these kiddos here in the summer. We also know that living in Houston, it is HOT out there in the summertime, so our office provides a welcome reprieve from the heat. We have toys, games, movies, and entertainment for all our young friends, get them out of the house and into a fun and safe engaging environment.

All our doctors and team members are always excited about summer break! We often have our college kids come back and bring stories about school, new friends, and new adventures

with them. A few of our patients have even worked for us in the past during summers, and we love seeing them pursue their dreams (some in dentistry!). We look forward to these sunshiny days every year.

Come tell us what you are up to this summer! We can‘t wait to hear about your summer camps, vacations, and summer jobs.

Heights Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

713.861.4000

104 West 12th St., Suite C

www.heightspedoortho.com

www.facebook.com/eightsPedoOrtho/

Dr. Adrien Theriot, Dr. Drew Darsey, Dr. Kasia Lindhorst

Y

ou hire a custom home builder because you value timeliness, finishes, and competitive pricing. In addition to the primary reasons to hire a custom home builder, you should hire Alexander Custom Homes of Houston (ACHH) because of our transparency, our regular communication, and our responsiveness to your concerns.

Do you need design help? I can help manage the architect, engineer, and/or interior designer and I have several to choose from who all provide great service and great value. I love to build, remodel, and manage design.

Part of my job as your home builder/ remodeler is to help you define the scope of work so I can then competitively bid and hire highly skilled trades who will bring enough manpower to the job to get the work done in a timely manner. I will plan and push the trades to get the job done as quickly as possible. My goal is to build your home or remodel project on time, on budget, according to the plans and specifications with regular communication.

Design matters and I am good at bringing good architects and designers to the job. I highly recommend having a good architect and interior designer do their thing for your new home or substantial remodel. Just picking the right colors, countertops, tile, flooring, plumbing fixtures, hardware, and

decorative lighting will overwhelm most homeowners and there are many more decisions to make.

The right architect will give your home the curb appeal that sets your home apart from the others and makes the living space livable. The trick in design is to get the right amount of “Bling”. Too much “Bling” and it loses its pop, and no “Bling” is dull.

Alexander Custom Homes of Houston (and remodeling).

www.alexandercustomhomeshouston.com Alexandercustomhomehouston@gmail.com

Heights Dermatology is proud to announce that they are the first dermatology group in Houston, and second in the state, to incorporate the most advanced technology to help the group’s providers detect melanoma earlier, when it is almost 100% curable.

Nevisense is the only FDA-approved device to evaluate atypical moles that are not obvious benign spots or melanomas, guiding more precise biopsy decisions during skin cancer checks. Nevisense is clinically proven to improve diagnosis of early melanoma in atypical moles that are not clearly malignant or benign.

As an innovative practice, Heights Dermatology has a history of providing its patients with state-of-the-art equipment designed to deliver the very best results. Patients value the role of Nevisense to help catch early melanomas in real time during the practice visit. Since they can be stressful, patients trust their providers to be as thorough as possible during skin checks, especially for those who have a history of melanoma and biopsies, or who are at risk for melanoma.

Many patients are afraid of, or are uncomfortable with, the prospect of biopsy, especially if the mole is in an area that is cosmetically sensitive, e.g., chest or face. Heights Dermatology is proud to offer its patients the very best in dermatologic care.

Dr Alpesh Desai

Are Food Sensitivity Panels Worth It?

Our uniqueness extends deep into our bodies, affecting our distinct dietary needs where what benefits one might harm another in the realm of nutrition. Research reveals that 95 out of 100 individuals have undiscovered food sensitivities, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adapting to our unique requirements.

Food sensitivities can manifest diverse symptoms, impacting daily life beyond immediate reactions, such as digestive issues, bloating, fatigue, skin problems, joint pain, mood disorders, and hormonal imbalances. Recognizing these signs empowers individuals to seize control of their well-being, guiding them towards optimal health.

Moreover, individual dietary preferences play a vital role in hormonal balance, with many hormones activated in the gut. Aligning food choices with personal biochemistry can effectively address hormonal imbalances, fostering holistic well-being and enhancing overall health through improved hormone regulation.

Understanding the body’s response to various foods not only influences daily vitality but also elevates long-term quality of life. By tailoring dietary choices to individual biochemistry, individuals can optimize health outcomes, promoting sustainable wellness practices that lead to lasting benefits and a higher quality of life. Embracing this personalized dietary strategy represents a pivotal step towards achieving holistic health and well-being.

Why Servpro?

Servpro of Houston Heights is a familyowned and operated business. The Reyes Team has been in the restoration industry for over 20 years, starting out as a subcontractor for local Servpro franchises, repairing residential homes at first, and later moving on to commercial reconstruction work.

In 2018, Servpro of Houston Heights was born, now certified with the IIRCR in water, fire, and mold clean-ups.

We can tackle any kind of disaster, no matter the size.

We strive to provide exceptional service for our customers in their time of need.

Working with a qualified practitioner who runs testing through a quality lab is crucial for accurate data and optimal results.

Erin Thole, CNHP has worked in Functional Medicine for over 17 years. To book your free phone consultation and learn more about how she can help you reach your wellness visit her website www.erinthole.com

Servpro of Houston Heights can make your home disaster “like it never even happened.”

2500 Yale St., Suite B19 Houston, TX 77008 (281) 643-7772

JReyes@servprohoustonheights.com servprohoustonheights.com

Ductless

Navigating Home Financing: FHA vs. Conventional Loans

In the journey towards homeownership, securing the right financing is crucial. For many prospective homeowners, the decision often boils down to choosing between Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans and conventional loans. Each option comes with its own set of benefits and considerations, tailored to suit different financial situations and goals. Let’s delve into the key differences between FHA and conventional loans to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding FHA Loans

FHA loans are mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration, a part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These loans are designed to facilitate homeownership, particularly for borrowers with less-thanperfect credit or limited down payment funds.

Features of FHA Loans:

1. Low Down Payment: One of the most attractive features of FHA loans is the low down payment requirement. Borrowers may qualify with a down payment as low as 3.5% of the home’s purchase price.

2. Flexible Credit Requirements: FHA loans are accessible to borrowers with lower credit scores compared to conventional loans. While specific requirements may vary among lenders, FHA loans generally accommodate individuals with credit scores as low as 580.

3. Fixed Interest Rates: FHA loans typically offer competitive fixed interest rates, providing borrowers with stability over the life of the loan.

4. Mortgage Insurance: FHA loans require both an upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP) and an annual mortgage insurance premium, regardless of the down payment amount. This insurance protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan.

Exploring Conventional Loans

Conventional loans, on the other hand, are not insured by any government agency. Instead, they are backed by private lenders, such as banks or mortgage companies, and are subject to guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, two government-sponsored enterprises.

Features of Conventional Loans

1. Varied Down Payment Options: Conventional loans offer greater flexibility in terms of down payment requirements. While a down payment of at least 5% is often required, borrowers with excellent credit may be eligible for down payments as low as 3%.

2. Credit Score Requirements: Conventional loans typically have stricter credit score requirements compared to FHA loans. While a credit score of 620 is generally considered the minimum, borrowers with higher credit scores may qualify for better interest rates and terms.

3. Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI):

Borrowers who make a down payment of less than 20% on a conventional loan are usually required to pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI). Unlike FHA loans, once the borrower’s equity in the home reaches 20%, they can request the cancellation of PMI.

4. Interest Rate Options: Conventional loans offer a variety of interest rate options,

including fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), allowing borrowers to choose the option that best suits their financial goals and circumstances.

In conclusion, both FHA and conventional loans offer distinct advantages and considerations for prospective homeowners. By understanding the differences between the two options and assessing your individual financial circumstances, you can confidently choose the loan that best fits your needs and sets you on the path towards homeownership.

While predicting which candidate will win the next presidential election is a little like forecasting the weather, one thing is for sure: Elections tend to shake things up. One of the biggest things you can do to help protect your nest egg is to make sure you’re comfortable with the levels of risk you have in your current portfolio. When investing in the market, it’s important to keep volatility in perspective. Market corrections — a decline of at least 10% of a stock, bond, commodity or market index from its highest recent point — are common and don’t always indicate a bear market. Corrections are generally temporary and typically end when the price of a stock or bond “bottoms out” and investors start buying again.

Many things can lead to a market correction, including profit selling, technical analysis and corporate earnings. A broad sense of fear based on a negative event in the news or perception about the economy can trigger a sell-off, and in turn, a correction — some believe that the same is true with presidential elections. But the fact is, government policy or political control of different branches of government have negligible impacts on the direction of the financial markets.

What drives market performance most of all is economic and business fundamentals. When heading into election season, it’s important to remember that the stock market — while fairly volatile on a short-term basis — has a strong track record of long-term success. Since 1980, market corrections have averaged about 14%. However, looking at the overall picture each year, the positive years outweigh the negative years, with negative returns occurring approximately one out of every four years. As history has shown, those who choose to stay the course are rewarded for their patience more often than not.

Sandra Crook, Principal

W

e’ve all been witness to a baby as he or she becomes ambulatory. Think about the key benchmarks that are talked about. “She can hold her head up now,” morphs into “she turned over today,” which quickly becomes “she’s crawling.” And then comes the big one, “she took her first step today!”

As we age however, aches and pains or injuries or illness cause us to move less and less, which leads to loss of flexibility and strength and influences our ability to feel confident when moving through activities of daily life.

a Baby to Improve Your Fitness Level

Let’s break down the example of the baby. When a baby is learning to move, he or she is not exercising, but rather learning to use the body as a unit to accomplish a specific task. In short, they are developing their proprioception, or the unconscious awareness of the body’s position in space.

Traditional exercise, especially as it applies to increasing strength, involves applying resistance to movement to ask the muscles

to get stronger. If we’ve lost much of our natural ability to move about easily, then as we begin to increase the load on the body, the possibility of injury increases.

If you’ve been inactive for a while, do this quick self-assessment and see how you do.

1) Can you sit on a low chair without bracing with your hands and then stand up without pushing off?

2) Can you get on the floor and get back up without pulling on a stationary object?

3) Can you get on your hands and knees, slightly lift your knees off the floor and crawl forward and backward?

Look at the photos for a demonstration. If this is too difficult, then simply practice the baby crawl and work on balancing on opposite hand/knee while the other hand and knee are off the floor.

These tests can reveal a great deal about your proprioception and hence, your movement ability. The more comfortable you can become with your body as it moves through space, the more productive any kind of formal exercise program will be.

Roller Shades Woven Shades

the H eig H ts P ages D irectory

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Phyllis A. Oeser

5005 W. 34th, #104A Houston, Tx. 77092

Garden Oaks

Professional Bldg.

Ph: 713-692-0300

Fax: 713-694-2881

My law practice is a general civil practice with an emphasis on Real Estate, Wills, Probate and laws affecting the elderly.

GIFTS / HOME FURNISHING / CLOTHING & JEWELRY

Jubilee in the Heights

325 West 19th St. 713-869-5885

www.jubileeintheheights.com or @jubileeintheheightshouston (IG) and @jubileeintheheights (FB)

Over 25 years strong in the historic Houston Heights, this much-loved local boutique features the latest in on-trend fashions for women of all ages and sizes, funky fabulous jewelry and accessories. You’ll also find eclectic home decor, fragrant candles, outrageous cards and unexpected hostess gifts! Life’s a party, shop like it!

HOME FURNISHINGS & ACCESSORIES

Eclectic Home

345 W. 19th St. 713.869.1414

M-Sat. 10-6 Sun.1-5 www.eclectichome.ws

ING, DESIGN, INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, IRRIGATION & DRAINAGE. We also build waterfalls, fountains, pools, patios, pergolas, outdoor kitchens and lighting.

LUMBER & HARDWARE

C & D Hardware & Gifts

314 East 11th St. 713-861-3551

www.CandDHW.com

“A Full Service Hardware Store Serving the Heights Area Since 1951”

10,000 sq. ft. of home, garden and pet supplies. Great selection of lawn furniture and decorative garden accessories. Known for our experienced and knowledgeable staff. Housewares and gifts including Melissa & Doug toys, home fragrances, kitchen towels and gadgets, Yeti, rugs, garden shoes, and gifts for the wine enthusiast. We carry both Green Mountain and Traeger Wood Pellet grills, pellets and grill accessories.

MORTGAGE LENDING

Texas Loan Star, Inc.

2233 Yale St.

Phone: 713-802-0606

Email: laith@texasloanstar.com

Web-site: www.texasloanstar.com

Home furnishings and accessories. From traditional to contemporary. Lamps, consoles, chests, wall dećor, chandeliers, art glass, candles, pillows and more! The promise of an experience unlike any other.

LANDSCAPING

Landscape Innovations

713-699-1606

www.burrislandscaping.com

Our family owned and operated company has been servicing Houston and its surrounding areas for over 30 years, creating that unique outdoor living space to blend with your existing architecture and landscape. Landscape Innovations provides a comprehensive service list from CONSULT-

Cynthia Hill Properties

304 W. 20th St. 713.869.0540 & 713.202.0973 cynthiahillprops@yahoo.com

Proven professionals who specialize in Good Old Fashioned Service and are available 7 days a week. We want to be your Realtors for life.

Real Estate Finance Experts offering home loans built for you. Purchase, Refinance, Construction, Renovation, Home Equity, Commercial Real Estate Financing - including multi-family, retail land, and SBA loans.

NMLS #99250

Laith I. Daik

REAL ESTATE & REALTOR

Ashton Martini & Diane Kingshill

Broker Associate | Founding Agents

Kingshill | Martini Group

kingshillmartini.com

713.300.1449

Heights Experts

30+ years experience

REAL Trends

Top 10 teams in America by volume

Houston Business Journal Top 25

Luxury Agents

Houston Business Journal Top 25 by Dollar Volume

Greenwood King Properties

1801 Heights Blvd. 713-864-0888 www.greenwoodking.com

Independently owned real estate company providing superior market knowledge and innovative marketing for customers and clients since 1989.

Open 7 days a week. Mon. Fri. 8:30am5:30pm; Sat. 9:00am-5pm; Sun. 10am-5pm

Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

1717 West Loop South, Suite 1700 Houston, TX 77027

713-520-1981

www.Sothebysrealty.com

Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty is a Houston real estate company with a global presence. For more than 30 years, we have provided our clients with the finest service, including specialized programs designed to ensure successful closings. Our professional, knowledgeable sales associates sell in communities from Lake Conroe and The Woodlands to the Bay Area and Galveston. We strive to provide smooth transitions for relocation clients and access to superior Houston area real estate and international properties.

Yenny Mattei

Personalized REALTOR

Compass, LLC

600 N. Shepherd Drive, Suite 535 Houston, TX 77007

Email: yenny.mattei@compass.com

Web: yenny@yennymattei.com

Looking for a top real estate expert in Houston with over 20 years of experience living in the Houston Heights area, Yenny has an in-depth knowledge of the Houston

market that enables her to provide valuable insights and advice to her clients in a fastpaced home seller’s market. When looking for the best price for your property, whether selling or buying, her extensive knowledge of the Houston market is a valuable asset. Trust her expertise and experience to guide you through the process and help you achieve your real estate goals.

Shawn Manderscheid Team

638 Heights Blvd. (281) 773-0195

shawn@realestatehouston.com

www.RealEstateHouston.com

Keller Williams Metro

With four generations of family history here… I know the Heights! I’ve been providing my clients with 5-Star Service for over 20 years and continue to carry on the family business with my lovely partner, Paula. As an award winning REALTOR® currently ranked in the Top 1% of Houston agents, I’m committed to earning your valued business through commitment, trust, service and innovation. So give me a call today and we look forward to serving you!

REMODELING/CONSTRUCTION/ RENOVATION

Nuvo Builders,

LLC

713-880-0006

Located in the Houston Heights since 1998, Nuvo Builders is your full-service construction company. We specialize in Home Additions, Remodels, New Construction and all levels of Renovations Services. We can update your kitchen, bathrooms, windows, cabinets, interior/exterior paint or whatever you imagine for your home. Give us a call or visit our website for more information.

www.nuvobuilders.com

SALONS

Studio

A Houston

803 Usener St, Houston, TX (Next to Active Passion Coffee) Houston, TX 77009

713.859.1591

www.studioahouston.com

Woodland Heights natives David Armendariz

and Jesse Gudino bring you Studio A Salon, a premier destination for all your hair care needs. Our experienced team offers a range of services including precision haircuts, balayage, blonding, event makeup, and extensions.

Products:

We proudly carry top-quality products from Inoa, Wella Professionals, Kerastase, Shu Uemura, Aveda, Wow, and many more. Visit Us: Enhance your look and enjoy exceptional service in a welcoming environment. Visit Studio A Salón today!

SCHOOLS

Immanuel Lutheran School

1440 Cortlandt St. Houston, TX 77008

713-861-8787

admissions@immanuelhouston.org

www.immanuelhouston.org

Registration is now open for the 2024-2025 Academic Year. Now offering programs for students aged 18 months through Kindergarten. Call to schedule your tour today! Immanuel Lutheran School has been a part of the Historic Houston Heights since 1927.

“How to Hire the Right Designer and Remodeler for your Project.”

By Sandra Crook

Principal, Interiors by Sandra Sandra thrives in the design arena in Houston, living with her husband in Timbergrove. She enjoys family time, volunteering, cooking, entertaining and living in our great city. Her extensive experience in design with a remodeling background brought her to love what she does not only with new houses but, also with old houses, which is where her passion lies. To get started with your project, think about these issues before you decide on who will create your dream home.

1. Portfolio: Review the designer and remodeler’s portfolio to see examples of their past projects and gauge their creativity and design style.

2. Design process: Inquire about the designer’s approach to the design process and how they incorporate creativity into their work. Ask about their inspiration sources and how they come up with innovative design solutions.

3. Collaboration: Choose a designer and remodeler who values collaboration and is open to incorporating your ideas and vision into the design. Creating a Pinterest or Houzz board of your own ideas will get you started. A creative partnership can lead to a truly unique and personalized space.

4. Innovation: Look for a designer and remodeler who is up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the industry, and who can offer innovative and creative design ideas for your project.

5. Problem-solving skills: Creativity often involves thinking outside the box and finding creative solutions to design challenges. Make sure the designer and remodeler have strong problem-solving skills and can adapt to unexpected issues that may arise during the renovation.

6. Communication: Effective communication is essential when working with a creative professional. Ensure that the designer and remodeler can clearly articulate their ideas and concepts and are receptive to your feedback and input, because this is important.

7. Flexibility: Creativity often requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances or new ideas. Choose a designer and remodeler who is open to exploring different options and making adjustments as needed to achieve the desired result.

Eclectic Home has become one of Houston’s destinations for affordable home furnishings and accessories. Now into its twenty second year, Eclectic Home stands out from other stores based on its design talent and desire to help homeowners solve their design needs. Everyone wants a home that reflects his or her personality….and at Eclectic Home, there is something for everyone’s tastes.

Lighting is a very important part of good design. Eclectic Home carries an assortment of interesting and unusual lamps and specialty chandeliers.

8. Attention to detail: Creative design often involves intricate details and thoughtful touches that can elevate a space. Look for a designer who pays attention to detail and has a keen eye for aesthetics.

9. References and reviews: Check references and reviews from previous clients to get an idea of the designer and remodeler’s creative abilities and the quality of their work.

10. Trust and rapport: Building a strong relationship with your designer and remodeler is crucial for a successful project. This is a partnership so choosed someone you trust and feel comfortable with, and who you believe can bring your creative vision to life.

Call Sandra with Interiors by Sandra for a conversation about your project at 713.412.9331.

Wall décor traditional to contemporary styles of mirrors, metal sculptures and works of art on canvas, metal and acrylic.

Accent furniture from traditional to contemporary are always available. You will find a selection of interesting chests, end tables, consoles, cabinets and cocktail tables.

And if that’s not enough, there is an array of decorative accessories to end your design dilemma…..

and various Japanese noodle dishes for a

Wash it down with a

Our Computer-Aided Design program assures that your project will be both functional and beautiful. Your direct participation in the design is encouraged. You need not settle for a sub-standard package! We give you exactly what you want and need. No two buildings are ever exactly the same, they are a reflection of their owners’ personality.

Our company started back in 1952 under the name Reid Construction Company. We specialized in garages and all exterior home improvements. This led to building garage apartments and barns. We are rated A+ with the B.B.B. and have a showcase in Houston Heights. We also specialize in permitting in The Historic Heights area. We take all our jobs from the ground up and custom build everything.

Honoring Clayton Lee

One of my favorite places to sit and enjoy the Houston Heights is the Clayton Lee Plaza on

Heights Blvd., an extension of the Houston Heights World War II Memorial. It was built to honor Clayton Lee, who was the President of the Heights World War II Committee, the idea of which was created at a Reagan High School reunion. It began as the John H. Reagan World War II Committee because the founding Board was made up of former students of Reagan High School, who wanted to honor the men and women of the Houston Heights that served in the armed forces during World War II.

by Laura Virgadamo

It is a quiet place on a now very busy Boulevard, but somewhere I can go to remember the man and his beloved wife, “Miss Libby”, whom I loved so much. Clayton, also known as “Mr. Heights” was a sweet soul who always told me, “I just want to help somebody every day.” And that is what he did. He fought a heroic battle to build the World War II Memorial and it actually took longer to get approval to build it than it did to fight the war. But he loved the people of the Heights and he knew the sacrifices that were made by the men and women and their families to keep our country safe.

The Clayton Lee Plaza was built after his death. I encourage you to visit the Memorial and Plaza and enjoy the history. There is a picture of Clayton in the Plaza. I’m sure the Rotary Club of Houston Heights would appreciate any donations made to that effort. They are on Facebook. Clayton

was a devoted member of the club with perfect attendance and brought in many members. He loved the Heights!

The Lees lived at 317 West 20th Street in a

beautiful home that was built in 1928 by Dr. T. C. Jester, Pastor of Baptist Temple Church, where they were members their whole lives. Sadly, the house was recently sold and raised for new development, even though it was on the National Register and an offer to save it was turned down. It was in beautiful condition. The house was significant because of the Jesters and the Lees. Clayton’s father was the first Master Plumber in the City of Houston. The iron fence, said to be built by boys at Reagan High School has been saved and reinstalled in the Heights.

Harmony Electric was proud to be the original Electrical Contractor for the Heights World War II Memorial and a proud resident.

If you have any questions about the Rotary Club or would like to donate, please contact Tim Vozar at 832.603.1876 or email rotaryhoustonheights1@gmail.com

Local Expertise. Global Connections.

Debbie Levine brings a host of invaluable talents to the real estate profession specializing in Houston’s premiere neighborhoods such as West University Place, Southampton, Braes Heights, River Oaks, Memorial, Bellaire, Tanglewood, Upper Kirby, Montrose, and the Heights. Enjoying a second residence in Galveston has enabled her to extend her knowledge base to the Gulf Coast as well.

Debbie’s production is consistently among the top 1% of all realtors in the state of

Texas. Committed to the priorities of her clients, she provides a quality of service and dedication that is sterling while assisting with relocation, new construction, and high-rise condominiums. This extensive repertoire has enabled this native Houstonian to provide her clients with a vast base of information regarding all things real estate. For the past several years, this top producer has been honored by H-Texas Magazine as one of “Houston’s top real estate agents”, and by Texas Monthly Magazine as a “Five Star Real Estate Agent”. She holds the coveted Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) designation and has achieved the elite status of Top Producer for over 20 years.

Houston Association of Realtors regularly names her as a top producer, highlighting her as one of 150 agents among their 45,000 agents and brokers whose production ranks among the highest dollar volume in Houston. Steeped in outstanding communication skills, market knowledge and attention to detail, Debbie’s clients feel extraordinarily informed through every step of a transaction.

A strong academic performance at the University of Houston was followed by work with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice

which developed Debbie’s skill set as a strong negotiator. Her significant involvement in the community and genuine love of animals fueled her participation in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for over 20 years.

Debbie is able to recharge her busy life by relaxing at her Galveston home and spending time with her dog, Libby. She is also a fitness enthusiast and enjoys Pilates, yoga, and long walks on the beach.

Whenever a client entrusts Debbie with their real estate needs, they will no doubt be rewarded with a hard-working, talented, caring professional. Debbie not only provides clients with a superior level of service, but also brings to each transaction her own distinctive enthusiasm, proficiency, and experience.

Come Visit our Showroom!!!

Whether it’s setting mud beds in showers, sanding and finishing wood floors or installing the latest flooring styles, Robert’s Floors has got it all covered.

This family-owned and operated business has provided excellent service and quality flooring for the past 26 years to both residential and commercial customers. Business has gotten so good that owners Robert and Coco Avila decided to give Robert’s Floors a make over and remodeled their store. The newly remodeled store is conveniently located at 708 East Tidwell Rd., near I-45 North and is a six-minute drive from downtown Houston.

Robert’s Floors offers a large selection of carpet, rugs, ceramic tile, wood floors, vinyl floor coverings and granite counter tops, all available at competitive prices. Great deals are available now on all carpets and granite counter tops.

Owner, Robert Avila who has more than 35 years experience, started the business back in 1988 and is a member of the Better Business Bureau with their highest ratings. Robert’s Floors has a dedicated staff of salespeople and installers with more than 30 years experience combined ready to help you choose the right flooring and counter tops for your home or business.

Free estimates and financing are available.

8am to 5pm Mon. thru Fri., 9am to 2pm on Sat.

Romancing the Sun Series

Kymn Harrison is a Houston-based artist whose inspiration is captivated by feelings about nature from all over the globe. Explore her latest series of awe-inspiring skies, sunrises, and sunsets that serve as the muse for her artwork. Whether it’s the picturesque landscapes of Hawaii and Maine, the charm of Italy, or the dynamic skies of her hometown, Houston, Kymn’s profound admiration for the sun and sky fuels a vibrant collection of paintings drenched in its warmth and brilliance.

Stop by Studio 205 at Silver Street Studios on the second or third Saturday of the month. Check out her latest artworks and shop her 50% off Sale on selected items.

Silver Street Studio #205, 2000 Edwards St, Houston, TX 77007

Elevate Your Outdoor Entertaining

As the warmth of summer beckons, it’s time to take your gatherings outdoors and embrace the beauty of al fresco entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue, a sunset cocktail party, or a cozy family dinner under the stars, creating an inviting outdoor space is key to setting the stage for memorable moments.

PATIO FURNITURE: WHERE COMFORT MEETS STYLE

When it comes to outdoor entertaining, comfort is paramount. Invest in high-quality patio furniture that withstands the elements but also offers comfort and style.

Weather-resistant Dining Sets: Opt for dining sets crafted from materials like teak, aluminum, or polyethylene wicker that can withstand sun exposure and moisture without fading or deteriorating.

Comfortable Seating: Create cozy conversation areas with plush outdoor sofas, loveseats, and lounge chairs. Look for cushions upholstered in weather-resistant fabrics.

Versatile Pieces: Incorporate multifunctional pieces like ottomans that double as extra

seating or coffee tables with built-in storage for added convenience. Remember to arrange your furniture in a way that encourages flow and conversation.

METAL YARD ART: ADDING PERSONALITY TO YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

Inject personality and charm into your outdoor oasis with metal yard art. From whimsical sculptures to elegant accents, metal art pieces can add visual interest and character to your patio or garden. Here are some creative ways.

Statement Pieces:

Make a bold statement with large-scale metal sculptures or focal points like kinetic wind spinners or cascading water features. Functional Art: Combine form and function with metal art pieces that serve a practical purpose, such as decorative fire pits, outdoor lanterns, or trellises for climbing plants.

Custom Creations: Personalize your outdoor space with custom metal art pieces tailored to your taste and preferences. Whether it’s a monogrammed gate, a custom sign, or a commissioned sculpture, bespoke metal art adds a unique touch to your decor.

OUTDOOR DECOR: FINISHING TOUCHES FOR A POLISHED LOOK

Complete the look of your outdoor entertainment area with carefully curated decor elements that enhance its beauty and ambiance. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Soft Textiles: Layer outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and blankets in weather-resistant fabrics to add warmth and comfort to your seating areas while infusing color and pattern into your decor.

Potted Plants: Bring life to your outdoor space with lush greenery and vibrant blooms. Arrange potted plants, hanging baskets, and window boxes strategically to create visual interest and soften hard surfaces.

Ambient Lighting: Set the mood with soft, ambient lighting that illuminates your outdoor space after dark. Incorporate string lights, lanterns, and torches to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings.

By paying attention to details and incorporating elements that reflect your personal style, you can create an outdoor entertaining space that is both functional and beautiful—a welcoming retreat where you can relax, unwind, and create cherished memories with family and friends.

Visit Alabama Furniture for all your home fashion needs. From outdoor patio sets to individual decorative pieces to whimsical metal yard art, we can help get your patio ready for Summer 2024!

(713) 862-3035 4900 North Shepherd Dr. www.alabamafurniture.com

Kymn Harrison Fine Art

Our team of highly skilled technicians is committed to providing you with the best possible service and making your home or business comfortable all year round.

As a family-owned and operated business, our slogan is “We’re fixin to make you comfortable”! We specialize in both residential and commercial HVAC systems - offering repair, replacement, and maintenance services.

Some of the services we offer is A/C and heating, tankless water heaters, ductless mini-split systems, whole house custom ductwork, dryer vent install -cleaning – and dryer vent booster fans, maintain zone systems, UV lights, media air filters, handyman services, whole-house air filtration, mini splits, air balancing as well as annual service agreements. We are licensed and insured, TACLA 58166 E, so you can trust that we operate with integrity and adhere to all industry standards and regulations.

We take pride in our work and are authorized dealers for American Standard and Daikin (Goodman), ensuring that we use only the highest-quality equipment and products in the industry. We also use Trane, Carrier, Ruud, Rheem and Amana.

One of the most frequent questions we get is, “Is it necessary to have my heating and A/C checked once a year?”

Yes. When we check your system, we look for components that are weak or in the process of failing. Left without checking, these could lead to more problems and repair costs. Maintaining your system will make it last longer, operate more efficiently and cost less in the long run and give you a better quality of home comfort and quality of life.

Flushing your primary drain is something we do every time we perform a cooling or heating check. This helps keep your drains working properly and may lead to not having a clogged drain in your primary drain line.

Don’t get caught without your A/C this summer. Give us a call to check your system and we will advise if anything is needed.

Nan Properties Extends Luxury Footprint to The Woodlands

Nan and Company Properties, a premier luxury real estate firm known for its strong presence in Houston’s Heights neighborhood, has made a bold move by expanding to The Woodlands. The opening of its fourth office location reflects the company’s commitment to serving the growing luxury market and the enduring influence of The Heights’ real estate legacy.

Under the leadership of Nancy Almodovar, President and CEO, Nan and Company Properties has set the standard for exceptional service and expertise in The Heights. The Woodlands office, led by an $80M founding team of local real estate veterans, aims to extend this legacy and cater to the evolving needs of the luxury market in the thriving suburb.

The parallels between The Heights and The Woodlands are striking, with both communities attracting discerning buyers seeking luxurious homes and a high quality of life. Nan and Company’s expansion recognizes the potential of The Woodlands to become the next frontier for high-end properties, just as The Heights has become a beacon for luxury real estate in Houston.

The firm’s new office in The Woodlands is a stepping stone towards a more significant presence in the area. Plans for a permanent headquarters, mirroring the iconic office in The Heights, demonstrate Nan and Company’s long-term vision and dedication to the community.

Nan and Company’s success in The Heights is a testament to Almodovar’s leadership and the firm’s innovative approach to luxury real estate. With its expansion to The Woodlands, the firm aims to bring

the same level of excellence to a new market, while staying true to the values and principles that have defined its success.

As The Woodlands embraces the luxury real estate legacy of The Heights, Nan and Company Properties stands ready to lead the charge. With its team of seasoned professionals, cutting-edge marketing strategies, and affiliation with Christie’s International Real Estate, the firm is wellpositioned to redefine the luxury real estate experience in The Woodlands, marking a new era of luxury living firmly rooted in the enduring legacy of The Heights.

& Company Properties

Jeff Laird Fee Attorney/Escrow Officer

jeff@lairdlaw.net

Our mission here at Fidelity National Title is to provide you the quality service and expertise that will result in the successful completion of your real estate transaction. We understand that each client is different and in that approach we go beyond the average title company. We work alongside our customers, listening to and anticipating their needs, allowing us to provide the services they need and the respect they deserve. Our clients continually return to us as a result of the personalized service they receive. Your success is our priority.

Claudia

Flores Bilingual Escrow Officer claudia@lairdlaw.net

Our Team is experienced in handling all types of files, including commercial, residential resale and refinance, home equity, construction loans and binders, and investment property transactions. This array of experience, not to mention the presence of an attorney in the office, allows us to quickly decipher and solve title issues arising in any real estate transaction. Additionally, several members of our staff are fluent in Spanish as well as English.

Jessica Clymer Escrow Officer

jessica@lairdlaw.net

Introducing

Jessica takes pride in her exceptional communication and problem solving skills, and makes customer service her top priority throughout every stage of transactions. Whether it’s before, during, or even after the closing of a file, you can trust that Jessica will be available to answer your questions and provide assistance.

It’s believed that next to teeth, the eyebrows are the most important features on any face. Eyebrow trends come and go, from thin and sharp to bold and bushy à la Cara Delevingne and basically every other model who’s been hot in the past few years.

But the latest trend we can’t get enough of is microblading, a new tattoo technique that fills brows out or reshapes them by drawing on tiny lines that look like individual hairs. We know what you’re thinking: tattooed eyebrows? No way. But hear us out. Microblading leaves brows looking natural and takes years off of your face! It sounds terrifying, and there’s this stigma of grandma’s blue arch eyebrows, but these are completely different.

Microblading is done with a handheld tool made out of needles that puts pigment into the skin, but doesn’t go as deep as a normal tattoo would.

It’s also semi-permanent. Your micro bladedd microbladed brows should last between two and three years.

There is a big change coming to the window covering industry.... standard operating cords will no longer be available. Beginning June 1, 2024, all Budget Blinds bead chain and cord lock operated window shades will be compliant with the new safety standard, ANSI/WCMAA100.1-2022, essentially eliminating all free hanging cords.

The new standard requires all custom window coverings which have cords or chains for operation, to be furnished with a tensioned holddown device that is permanently attached and partially disables the product if not installed correctly. Even though our shades will comply with the new standard, it’s important to point out that window shades without bead/cord chains are inherently even safer.

To provide peace of mind to our customers, several products are now Best for Kids certified. The Best for Kids™ certification program is overseen by the Window Covering Safety Council to help consumers make the right choices when selecting window coverings. Certified products have been tested by a third-party laboratory and, upon meeting the criteria, are certified Best for Kids.

Best for Kids products either have no cords, no operating cords and inner cords that are accessible, or if accessible inner cords are present in products with no operating cords, the accessible inner cords cannot create a hazardous loop.

Here are a few solutions Budget Blinds offers that are now certified Best for Kids:

Cordless-Operated Shades

Cordless operated shades are not only economical but also provide a clean aesthetic. Simply pull on the handle or bottom rail to the desired position to raise your shade.

Battery-Operated Shades

Battery operated window shades are the most simple and economical way to install motorized window shades. There is no wiring required, so installation and integration into building control and smart home automation systems is a snap. Motorized Shades

Line and low voltage shades are easy to use with options to integrate into any type of control system, including whole building automation and smart home systems.

If you need new shades or would like to replace your existing shades with a Best In Kids Safety compliant product, contact Budget Blinds Greater Heights to assist you with your window covering needs.

The new safety update also applies for our furry friends!

Understanding Your Odds of Selling Your Property in Greater Heights

Selling a property can often feel like navigating through a maze of uncertainties. However, armed with the right information and strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful sale. If you’re a seller in the Greater Heights area with a property valued at $1 million or more, here’s a breakdown of the odds stacked in your favor.

1. Sold Properties in the Last 3 Months: In the past three months, there have been 15 successful property sales in the Greater Heights area. Analyzing these successes can provide valuable insights into what buyers are looking for and how to refine your own selling strategy.

2. Sales Rate (Absorption Rate) Per Month of Similar Properties: The absorption rate, or sales rate, for similar properties in Greater Heights stands at an impressive 5.00 per month. This indicates a healthy demand for high-value properties in the area.

3. Number of Properties Currently for Sale: Currently, there are 31 properties on the market in Greater Heights, not including yours. With your property added to the mix, the total count reaches 32.

4. Time Required to Sell Off Currently Active Properties: At the current sales rate, it›s estimated that it would take approximately 6.4 months to sell off all the properties currently listed in Greater Heights.

5. Odds of Selling Within 30 Days Through “Buyer’s Eyes”: From a buyer›s perspective, the odds of selling your property within the next 30 days are calculated at 15.63%. This is derived from the monthly sales rate divided by the total number of properties for sale.

6. Value Positioning Through “Buyer’s Eyes”: To further understand your chances of a quick sale, it›s essential to position your property strategically. Here›s a breakdown:

● If you position your property in the top 5, you have a 100% chance of selling within 30 days.

● Placing your property in the top 10 gives you a 50% chance of selling within 30 days or within 60 days at the latest.

● A top 15 positioning provides a 33% chance of selling within 30 days or within 90 days at the latest.

Understanding these odds and positioning

your property accordingly can greatly influence the speed and success of your sale in the Greater Heights market. By aligning your strategy with buyer expectations and market dynamics, you can maximize your chances of a swift and profitable transaction.

Ask me how and I will be happy to assist!

Yenny Mattei

The Rice Organization, Inc

Is a female owned full-service landscape company offering design, installation, irrigation/drainage, lighting, hardscapes and maintenance. We are proud that we have continuously grown without losing sight of our main goal, communication and attention to detail. We proudly set ourselves apart from others by being members of Houston’s growing organic community.

As members and sponsors of OHBA, Organic Horticulture Benefits Alliance, we strive to educate our clients on the importance of organics and sustainability. We spend a great deal of time with clients researching materials for shade and butterfly gardens, working with native plants and trees. No two of our landscapes are alike. Why organics? They promote better performing plants, healthier soils and reduce water usage.

To quote my mentor and dear friend Mike

Serant, owner of MicroLife, “Don’t ask a plant to do something it’s genetically not designed to do. Instead, use native or adapted varieties. Chemical pesticides and fertilizers weaken the soil, the plants and kill your allies like Earthworms, good insects, and good microorganisms. Without them, problems are compounded.

Add organic matter whenever possible: Mulch all bare areas. Leave grass clippings on Turf. Add compost and Humates regularly to all beds and turf areas. Use organic fertilizers and amendments regularly. The use of MicroLife Fertilizers and Humates will provide the best nutrition for soil and plant life possible. You’ll get incredible, healthy, natural production and conservation of resources.

Increase oxygen in your soils: Plants need Oxygen more than any other nutrient. By adding compost, Humates and MicroLife Organic fertilizers you are increasing the Oxygen flow to your plants and lawns. For

plants to work at their optimum, they need a balanced pH and minerals at the right levels. For example, we generally want a 5 to 1 Calcium to Magnesium ratio. Pest insects and diseases are the symptoms of a deeper problem. It’s not natural for a healthy plant to have problems. Find out what’s really wrong and why the plant is under stress.”

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ thericeorganization/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/The-RiceOrganization-Inc-1715006562110735/

Other: www.pinterest.com/thericeorganiza/

Well, let’s make it happen! But buyer beware, all insulation companies are not created equal. If you are shopping on the web you could spend a lot of money and never fix the problem.

Let Payless Insulation cut out the hassle and confusion surrounding your insulation purchase. We are here to help save you time and money.

Rest assured, we have over 45 years of knowledge and experience to properly guide you with measures that work immediately and save you money!

If you care about your home and your comfort, then we are the right company to call for a free estimate.

Our experienced installers who are paid by the hour, will not hurry to get your job done, and will meticulously clean up your home. Together we can work to find the right solution that best fits your needs!

Curb Appeal Blues 6 Years and Counting

We’re wrapping up some great projects this year – The Shepherd restoration project is underway with fresh mosaics all throughout Shepherd between Westheimer and 59, you know, where the terrible construction has been underway for the last couple years… We’re part of that too, but don’t blame the tile guys.

We wrapped up some Pillar work with the Norhill Association, having prepped and coated the existing pillars, and recolored the street names and blocks. If you’ve been through Norhill lately, I’m sure you’ve seen them.

Let’s see what 2024 brings us!

Between the 1920’s and the 1950’s, Houston used blue and white, unglazed mosaic tiles inlaid in curbs to indicate addresses and street names. As Houston grows and continues to rebuild, these pieces of history are quickly disappearing. Curb Appeal Blues is working with the Blue Tile Project to bring back the Blue Tile as a symbol of Houston’s support of Historic Preservation, local business, and the arts. These are a great permanent replacement for the painted address numbers on your curb!

BeYoutiful Anti-Aging Studio

When you first pull up to BeYoutiful Anti-Aging Studio on 13th Street in the Heights, you will immediately get the impression that they don’t do anything the easy way or leave a single detail to chance. Stepping foot inside, you’re transported to a lavish atmosphere, where the founder, world-renowned master trainer, and injection artist, Kay McCunis has adorned every nook and cranny with her art pieces handcrafted by herself.

When you step into the studio, you’ll immediately see Kay’s extensive collection of accolades, earned abundantly over the years from 2015 to 2023. These include recognition for excellence in aesthetics, nursing, running a medical spa, personal training, entrepreneurship, and more. 2015 to 2023 recognitions include: Top Aesthetic Nurse, Top Medical Spa, Top Trainer, Top Business Owner, and so on.

In life, we’re given just one face and body, which is why it’s natural for people to desire to look and feel their best. However, some may feel hesitant about pursuing physical enhancements. That’s why Kay provides complimentary consultations, ensuring everyone can gain a personalized understanding of what’s optimal for them as a unique individual.

When asked about what is most fulfilling

about her line of work, Kay doesn’t hesitate in saying, “Making someone feel good on the inside, not just the outside, “She also adds that, “Everything starts to change as we age over time and it makes you want to cry inside. However, when you look better, you instantly feel better about yourself – It’s a huge confidence booster and you feel better about yourself too. My goal is for you to look like a better version of yourself while still being natural.” She concludes by saying, “You want someone to look at you and speak: ‘you look great!’ rather than saying: ‘what have you done to yourself?’”

Offering a range of services from injectables to laser procedures, weight loss, and hormone replacement therapy, Kay and her team are adept at revitalizing skin, reducing wrinkles, and fostering inner balance reflected in appearance. However, the key to the effectiveness of all these services ultimately lies in the expertise of the actual aesthetician.

� Trips

ARE YOU SUMMER READY?

� Hooking Up with Friends and Family

� Travel or Vacation Plans Complete

� Closets Cleaned Out

� Wills and Powers of Attorney

Complete with access from your Cell Phone

What are your summer and travel plans?

Do they include trips, hooking up with friends and family, and vacation plans? Summers are for making memories and seeing new places and/or familiar faces. Are your plans complete and are your bags packed with your travel insurance? Do you have your Will and Estate Planning Documents updated and signed?

What an odd thing to have on your summer and travel list. However, having these documents complete and executed with an electronic copy accessible via your cell phone will be a great help if you become seriously ill

or get into a severe accident while traveling or on vacation.

Also, during the summer, you may have more time and flexibility to focus on gathering your thoughts and information to prepare for and schedule an appointment to have your Will, Trust, and other related Estate Planning documents drafted and signed. This is not a fun task, but it will bring you peace of mind once your documents are completed.

These documents are like many other things in your life. We cannot simply have them complete and then tuck them away, never to be reviewed again until needed. It would be best to have something to prompt you to review your Estate Planning Documents. When you file your income taxes, or when preparing to travel or go on vacation is a good time to confirm your documents are up to date.

Whatever you choose to do this summer, enjoy! If you desire to get your Will, a Trust, or your Estate Planning Documents in place, we will be happy to work with you to add another check to your checklist.

Aprilaire Dehumidifiers

Why Choose Aprilaire

Recognized as ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient for 2021, Aprilaire’s high-capacity whole-home dehumidifiers set the standard for humidity control and energy efficiency.

With intuitive digital controls, you can easily set and control the moisture inside your home to reduce harmful airborne contaminants that impact your home’s health, comfort, and structure.

Each dehumidifier is designed and manufactured in the USA and is outfitted with corrosion-resistant coils and a sturdy design to prevent leakage. Additionally, each unit comes backed by a 5-year warranty.

Since 1954, Aprilaire has been the industry leader in residential humidification with a goal of delivering Healthy Air to everyone. Excess moisture in your home creates perfect conditions for mold growth, allergens, musty odors, and mildew which can lead to unhealthy air. Aprilaire dehumidifiers remove the right amount of moisture from every room in your home, until your optional humidity level has been reached.

The whole-house dehumidifier can also help make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient while protecting your home’s assets. The Aprilaire dehumidifier includes a dedicated drain which means there is no messy water tray to empty. Yearly filter cleaning or replacement makes maintenance simple. Contact us if you would like to know more and/or schedule your appointment.

Splash into Music This Summer: How Music Can Help Your Child Get Ahead

Engaging with music in early childhood nurtures emotional intelligence and fosters social skills. Whether it’s through playing instruments or just bopping to the beat, these musical experiences help children with all aspects of life. Read along to find more ways music helps children’s learning and growth.

Accelerates Language Learning

Learning music requires the same part of the brain involved in learning language. Verbal memory, literacy, and verbal intelligence have been shown to strongly benefit from musical training.

Helps Form the Building Blocks of Mathematical Learning

Music involves patterns and repetition, just like math. When a child learns to read music, the symbols on the sheet tell what keys to press on a piano or string to pass the bow across on a violin. This pattern recognition is a fundamental building block of mathematical learning. Understanding music can also help children visualize various elements that should go together like they do when solving a math problem.

Improves Focus and Memory

Even the beginner piano player playing a short song exercises focus, hand-eye coordination, and memory. The more children practice, the more they develop these skills.

Boosts Confidence

A music education boosts confidence and self-esteem. Learning to play an instrument or singing provides a sense of achievement. As they practice and improve, children gain confidence and self-assurance. Performing can also be incredibly empowering for children.

Make music Part of Your Child’s Routine:

Add a Weekly Class at Vivaldi Music Academy! Let music become a harmonious part of your family’s routine. At Vivaldi Music Academy, we offer music lessons and classes for all ages and skill levels.

Early Childhood Classes: Vivaldi Seasons

Vivaldi’s childhood music program is a wonderful way to introduce children to music, providing an enriching experience for child and parent. Curated by age group, Vivaldi Seasons offers fun-filled classes for children 1-5 to learn sound patterns, repetition, and listening skills led by teachers devoted to making music exciting and rewarding.

School-Age Weekly Music Lessons

Vivaldi Music Academy offers weekly private music lessons in piano, violin, guitar, drums, viola, cello, flute, voice, and more. Whether your child is picking up an instrument for the first time or has been taking lessons for years, our highly-qualified teachers will customize fun and rewarding lessons for an enriching musical journey.

TRUE NORTH 2024 - The Art & Artists

It’s another very special year for art on Heights Boulevard with eight exciting, diverse and thought-provoking works by accomplished Texas artists—two of whom are returning to the project. Creating and installing large-scale outdoor public art is a huge commitment, and we appreciate these fine artists’ precious time, resources, dedication and extraordinary talent. We hope you enjoy True North 2024. Gus Kopriva & Chris Silkwood [founders], Donna Bennett, Dean Ruck & Kelly Simmons

Nela Garzón, Houston

“Pre-Columbian Unlooted Bat or Vampire for the New World” - 800 block

A multidisciplinary visual artist, Nela Garzón finds inspiration through studies of ancient beliefs, myths and customs—and those reflections in folk art—from around the globe. Her works raise awareness of the importance of ancestral traditions and promote pride within these cultural societies. Her sculpture, “Pre-Columbian Unlooted Bat or Vampire for the New World,” for True North 2024—made of chicken-wire, salvaged plastic and polyethyl-ene, paper mâché, PVA glue, primer and gesso—is based on the Mexican free-tailed

bat. Adorned with pre-Columbian ornamentation, its wings hold patterns of the iconic monarch butterfly, and the nose and fangs are inspired by the vampire bat. Garzón explains that the pre-Columbian Tayrona tribe believed their shamans would transcend into fierce animals, and Mesoamerican mythology tells of an anthropomorphic bat-headed monster named Camazotz.

Born in Bogotá, Colombia, Garzón studied Literature at Los Andes University and holds a Bachelor of Visual Arts from Javeriana University, Bogotá.

Clayton Hurt, Dallas “Apprehensive Dog” - 1600 block

A multi-media artist based in Dallas, Clayton Hurt is mostly known for his figurative works—often depicting the mundane daily life of a dog—which navigate a fine line between struggle and humor. His father a master electrician and his mother an artist, Hurt grew up around construction sites and surrounded by art and the Dallas-Fort Worth arts community. His True North 2024 sculpture, “Apprehensive

Dog”—made of welded steel, burlap, cloth, foam, tar, wax, resin and paint—depicts a mysterious and expressive canine with a story that is left to the

viewer’s imagination. Its precarious posture suggests it is avoiding or contemplating something below, and its shiny chrome eyes reflect the world around it.

Hurt earned a BFA Sculpture from University of North Texas, Denton, and an MFA Sculpture from Texas Christian University, Fort Worth.

Dion Laurent, Houston “AirPlane 1” - 400 block

A fourth-generation visual and performative artist with studios now in Houston and Bastrop, Dion Laurent spent 7 years traveling

the world after college—with a backpack of supplies—covering 23 countries and creating and exhibiting works all along the way. He has lived and maintained studios around the globe, including six years in Tokyo and throughout Asia, including a small Japanese island in the Pacific. Laurent’s large-as-life sculpture, “AirPlane 1,” for True North 2024 is made of wood, aluminum, steel, plexiglass, batteries, tires, electric motor, solar panels, generator, lights, PVC, plants, soil and water—a conceptually imagined work designed to specifically run on wind and solar energy and produce bio-regenerative life support for outer space explorer, “EarthMan 1.”

Laurent attended Texas A&M University,

College Station, and Belmont University, Nashville, and has exhibited extensively.

Wyatt Little, Houston

“BRICK PHONE” - 1200 block

Following an early career in traditional industrial design, Houston Heights artist Wyatt Little turned to ceramic art after learning mold making from a friend. His concepts are derived from early memories of treasured, iconic objects—resulting in decidedly quirky and whimsical symbols of bygone times. Growing up watching “Saved by the Bell,” Little recalls those comically-huge phones—like the kind Zack had on the show—resembling a brick in size and shape and representing a major status symbol that personified that era of conspic-

uous consumption (costing upwards of $4,000 at the time!). Little’s 16’-tall “BRICK PHONE”—made of treated lumber, stucco and paint—evokes nostalgia, immortalizes the dramatic evolution of that technology and, let’s face it, simply makes us smile.

Wyatt holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design from the University of Houston, Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design. ‘My designs are my way of immortalizing the things I’ve always cared about,’ Little says.” [BloombergCityLab, 2016.]

Suzette Mouchaty, Houston

“Monument to Sea Slugs” - 1300 block

Suzette Mouchaty’s works blend formal structures of rational scientific thought with the imaginary and subversive of the artistic

realm—realizing quirky objects that address sociopolitical issues and environmental concerns. Inspired by marine nudibranchs that are no larger than your thumb, her sculpture for True North 2024, “Monument to Sea Slugs”—made of metal, Styrofoam, stucco, pvc and paint—is composed of two colorful sea slugs rapturously gliding up a carnival pole. One of the many marine species facing extinction because their coral reef habitat is being lost due to warming oceans, these tiny mollusks have consequently become indicators of climate change. Our survival and well-being depend upon healthy ecosystems rich in diversity, and Mouchaty’s sculpture serves to shed light upon the plight of these phenomenal creatures of the sea.

Mouchaty is an artist and scientist who lives, works—a professor of biology for UH-Downtown—and creates her art in Houston. She earned a BS and MS from University of Alaska, Fairbanks, an MFA from University of Houston School of Art, a Ph.D. in Genetics from Lund University, Sweden, and received a Junior Fulbright Fellowship to Sweden.

Ricardo Paniagua, Dallas

“Intersections of Dimension” - 900 block

Ricardo Paniagua is known for his trompe l'oeil and geometric paintings and sculptures which explore the relationship between color, line and form. He draws inspiration from a

backlog of concepts and projects stemming from his dynamic and ubiquitous dreams and visions.

Paniagua’s brilliant geometric sculpture for True North 2024, “Intersections of Dimension”—made of laser-cut and welded steel and automotive paint—continues his work originating from a lucid dream where he observed a vivid hypercube—painted in a multicolored array of stripes—turning and moving on the many planes of the form itself.

A self-taught artist whose works have been shown all over the world, Paniagua first became interested in creating art while enrolled at a technical school for underprivileged youth—taking advantage of the free art supplies he found in the facility’s community room.

Patrick Renner, Houston “dauber” - 1800 block

A fourth generation Houstonian, Patrick Renner has been established in his hometown’s art scene for over two decades. Returning to the project this year, his True North 2016 installation, “harbinger,” was an otherworldly

True North 2024

work of imaginative and architectural genius. For 2024, Renner brings us “dauber”—a meditation on the structures built by the garden-beneficial mud dauber wasp. His stylized “nest” is constructed with—instead of mud—a combination of architectural refuse and brightly colored wooden strips from past projects—dismantled and reconfigured into the new form. One side of the nest’s organic silhouette is considered the planar facet—implying it might have been originally built on the angling surface of another form that is now absent.

Renner attended the famed High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Houston, earned a BFA from Kansas City Art Institute and MFA from New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. An art educator from 2006-16, Renner led his students at Sharpstown International School to win prizes for their Houston Art Car Parade entries, including First Place Best School category in 2016.

Art Shirer, Dallas

“WISH” - 600 block

Art Shirer has produced welded steel sculpture

for more than four decades and is known for his kinetic forms and ephemeral site-specific installations. His True North 2020 collaborative sculpture “Carbon Sink” (with Dallas artist Sherry Owens) was one part performance art as they meticulously pieced the work together on site over a period of several days in March (just as the pandemic was closing in) using hundreds of discarded crape myrtle cuttings. Made of welded steel and found industrial objects, Shirer’s 2024 sculpture “WISH,” with its fantastical shapes and movement, appears as a mysterious primeval relic—meant to grant your every wish with a spin of its ancient wheel.

Shirer was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and received a BFA from East Carolina University, an MFA from Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, and an Artist Fellowship from the State of Louisiana Division of the Arts.

Beginning as an idea and a dream, we are thankful for the many hands that have touched the sculpture project over the last eleven years. Working with this supportive, arts-minded community—and the 80+ gifted past and present True North artists—continues to be a pleasure and a privilege for this team.

Don’t Overlook These Heights Outdoor Spaces

Here in the Heights, our lifestyle is all about community, convenience, and relaxation. We love the proximity to our favorite spots like parks, bike trails, and local restaurants. Whether you’re a regular at your favorite spot or if you’re looking for the next best thing, keep exploring to find new places to enhance your life in the Heights.

Worthington Plaza

You gotta love a good pop-up market and farmers markets. I like to make my way over to the Heights Mercantile on the weekend. Whether it’s shopping or dining, it’s always a blast. My tip? Grab a smoothie in the AM at Mamaka, and take a seat at Worthington Plaza for a tranquil morning moment.

Marmion Park Gazebo on 18th

ATreat your pup to a leisure stroll along Heights Boulevard. The Heights Boulevard esplanade history is fascinating and you can easily spend a whole afternoon exploring its gardens and public art. Stop by Boomtown Coffee for your favorite cup of joe and go on a field trip. Personally, I love going to the Marmion Park Gazebo on 18th St. Lots of lively events take place here throughout the year such as the Houston Heights Bicycle Rally and Scavenger Hunt in June and the Houston Heights Fun Run in October.

Greetings from Houston Mural

If you have friends visiting from out of town, give them a tour of our neighborhood. I recommend making a stop at Harvard & White Oak! It features a postcard mural they will want to use as a backdrop for their favorite Houston snapshot.

As our community grows and evolves, let’s keep exploring. Support your local businesses and carve out some time to enjoy our nearby outdoor havens. I’m a proud resident of the Heights and if you want to share more outdoor spaces with your fellow neighbor, please do. As a real estate agent, I like to be a resource and if I can be one to you, let me know!

If you have any questions about the market or if you’re thinking about making a real estate move this year, reach out by phone or e-mail. My goal is to make the home selling or buying process as stress-free for you as possible.

AVANTA MEDICAL CLINIC

vanta Medical Clinic is a network of professionals who provide patients with all aspects of health care including diagnostic care and 24-hour assistance. If you are sick and are unable to come in, we can provide care over the telephone, via Telemedicine. Either a Doctor or Nurse Practitioner is available to assist you around the clock.

We are a dedicated Medical Practice designed to meet your healthcare needs in the most efficient manner possible. As a group of medical professionals, we aspire to provide the best standard of care to our patients to prevent disease that may affect their health in a negative way. Our health care providers are specialized in the management of diabetes, heart disease, musculoskeletal pain, hypertension and obesity.

In order to facilitate patient care, we offer services such as x-rays, EKG’s,

WE OFFER:

echocardiograms, arterial/venous Dopplers, and lab-work. We are able to produce x-rays immediately during your office visit; including chest x-rays, abdominal x-rays and x-rays of all extremities and bones. X-rays allow us to more adequately diagnose what ails you in order to provide you with more specific treatment.

We are specialized in heart disease and are equipped to perform echocardiograms in order to assess heart and valvular function. If you have a heart condition or suffer from congestive heart failure, it is essential that an echocardiogram be performed to establish your baseline heart function. Dizziness can be caused by a multitude of factors, however, a common and significant cause includes blockage of the carotid arteries, which are the arteries supplying the brain. If you have had a stroke or symptoms similar to a stroke, including dizziness, weakness in an arm, leg or both, difficulty talking, a carotid Doppler should be performed in order to determine whether these arteries are the source of the symptoms. Diagnosing carotid artery

disease allows us to better treat circulatory disease, which can also be found in other parts of the body.

We are conveniently located at the corner of N. Shepherd and 13th Street. Please feel free to contact us for an appointment at 713-885-9899, also know that you can always walk in if necessary. You have the option of making an appointment online, so visit our website at www.avantahealthprofessionals.com

Xrays • All Ultrasounds including: Arterial, Carotid and Venous Doppler • DXA scan (to screen for osteoporosis & bone density) • stress test (to screen for coronary artery disease) • arterial elasticity screening (to screen for arteriosclerosis) • ankle-brachial index (to screen for peripheral vascular disease) • urodynamics (to diagnose urinary disorders including incontinence) • pulmonary function tests (to screen for lung disease), Echocardiogram, Electronystagmography / Vestibular, Nuclear Stress Test, Smoking Cessation Counseling. We have COVID Testing and FLU SHOTS Available.

Shop Local!

Shop the Houston Heights, Garden Oaks and Oak Forest

Small towns throughout the country are rallying around their cherished local businesses in this tough economy in the desire to preserve the character and prosperity of their communities. Join us in keeping our community strong.

Local Businesses

• preserve character and prosperity and maintain diversity and distinctive flavor within the community;

• focus on the specific interests and culture of their community, creating a much broader range of preferred product choices; support local artists and crafts-persons who in turn invest their income back into the community;

• provide more individual customer service and employ outgoing,

friendly, and highly-qualified people to staff their businesses;

• build stronger neighborhoods by giving back and contributing more to local charities and causes; and

• are primarily owned by people who live in the community who are more vested in the neighborhood’s future and well-being.

Our local businesses are among the most unique in the country.

We hope to see you around town for all your shopping needs!

Heights Boulevard & our Esplanade

by Jim Bennett & Gerald Melancon

There are great monuments of our society, left to us by our forefathers that are often times taken for granted, as though they’ve always been there, or at least we assume they’ve always been there, and that’s just the way it’s supposed to be. From the gigantic granite edifices in our capitals, to men and women who stood in the way of destroying our environment, inspired folks with a purpose endeavored to make a difference in the lives of others. Well…what I’m about to talk about may not measure up to all of that, but it is adjacent.

Easily accessible green spaces are precious in a neighborhood such as ours. Park spaces, like Donovan Park, are full on the weekends and the bike trail, as well as the green spaces along our bayous, are well used by many bikers and joggers.

And seemingly, an ever increasing number of multi-family residences and apartment buildings, where only single family homes once stood, is increasing the density of our neighborhood. Having been here for almost 4 decades, our neighborhood has become not only more crowded, but much younger with many more children, putting additional pressure on our green spaces. When we moved here with our two little kids, there were only four other kids we could count in a 12-15 block area. Those same blocks now display “Children Playing” marker cones on their streets. The population of the Heights has increased by almost 7,000 from 2015 to present, as “households with children, median income, and renter occupied” categories increased yearover-year.

The 1,175-acre site of Houston Heights, one of the first planned communities in Texas, was subdivided into residential and industrial districts. The work began in 1892, as workers marked streets and alleys named for American colleges and universities, macadamized Heights Boulevard, and laid an electric street railway system to connect the suburb to Houston. A steam freight line linked up with the Houston and Texas Central Railway to haul factory and building products.

One of the main features of the neighborhood would be the Heights Boulevard Esplanade, at approximately 2 miles long and 60 feet wide. It was inspired by Commonwealth Avenue in Boston, which has been compared to the great boulevards of Paris. It would eventually be declared a “Scenic Right of Way” by the City of Houston in 1985, but was also named by the American Society of Landscape Architects as one of the 362 best landscape architectures in the last 100 years.

The Heights Boulevard Esplanade has been maintained, with assistance from the City of Houston, by the Houston Heights Association (HHA), making improvements, almost since its inception in 1976. However, like all real estate, including the esplanade, it all requires constant maintenance in various forms. This effort has been not only consistent and long term, but well planned.

Twenty-six years ago, in 1998, the HHA began developing a master plan for the Boulevard.

After some public meetings to receive input, they approached Houston Parks and Recreation Department, along with Clark Condon and Associates, a landscape architectural firm, to develop the plan. Half a million dollars were raised as a part of this effort from individuals and foundations. They also received a federal HUD grant, championed by Sheila Jackson Lee, as well as a plant sale and croquet tournament to assist with the funding. From 1977 to 2006, we used to have the Heights Festival to raise funds, with vendors set up along the esplanade. This came to an end when costs began to exceed income and after a couple of gang behavior incidents occurred.

As a result of these efforts, 375 trees were planted, thousands of cubic yards of mulch were added around tree groups, and irrigation was added to each block of the boulevard. In the 1970’s, the addition of curbs on the boulevard presented additional drainage problems which were remediated by over 1,000 cubic yards of fill dirt. The I-10 entrance garden was expanded to dress up the main entrance to our neighborhood, as well as 20 additional benches added to various

areas on the path. The bike/jogging trail was added in 1996/1997. The jogging trail is named in honor of Paul Carr, who lead the efforts to build the Paul Carr Jogging Trail and the planting of the 300 live oaks.

In 1990, a total of 300 live oak trees were planted on each side of the boulevard between the street and sidewalk and in 1992 the Heights Victorian Rose Garden at 20th Street was brought about as part of the Heights Boulevard beautification project.

In recent years, drought and record setting freezes has exerted a toll on the trees of the boulevard. If you have been paying attention, you’ve probably noticed a fair number of them have been losing their branches and have shown other signs of distress causing the need to be treated and watered. This effort, however, has been going on for many years, led by the illustrious

Donovan Park, located at Heights Blvd. and 7th Street, is owned and maintained by the Houston Heights Association, as well as Marmion Park, which now stands at the site of the community’s first house, located on Heights Boulevard at 18th Street. The house was built for the Cooley family and was constructed in 1892/1893. The Cooley mansion stood on a ½ acre lot and was built in Houston Heights by the Omaha and South Texas Land Company.

(illustrious def: well known or famous, leaving a trail of glory in its wake) Jim Bennett, who has championed the maintenance and development of our boulevard for 25 years. He and his volunteers have planted hundreds of trees, predicting where mature trees will later be needed in the years to come, as the current crop begins to fade. Thus, he and his group literally leave a trail of glory in their wake, which will impact this community well beyond our existence here.

When the electric trolley lines were installed on the Boulevard, D.D. Cooley connected the electric lines to his house, making it one of the first in the Heights to have the modern convenience of electricity. Mr. and Mrs. D.D. Cooley were the parents of three sons - Dr. Denton, Arthur and Ralph. After D.D. Cooley died in 1933, Arthur, his son, continued to live in the house. After Arthur’s death in 1962, his grandsons, Ralph Jr. and Dr. Denton Cooley, were unsuccessful in selling the house at an asking price of $45,000 so eventually they were forced to sell it to Olshan Demolishing Company,

The National Weather Service classified this strom as a "derecho" storm that brought 100 MPH winds, trees snapped in half, destruction of homes & businesses with power outages for nearly 1,000,000 people. 7 deaths at the time of writing.

who dismantled it and sold the remnants. A fairly accurate replica now sits across the street from where it once stood.

Today, with the increase in population, the additional use of and stress to the boulevard will only increase. The annual budget for the boulevard maintenance currently stands at $25,000. The jogging trail, through water erosion and constant use will need the surface materials replaced. The Marmion Park gazebo needs occasional upkeep. New trees need to be planted and beds need to be mulched. And, a constant pain in Mr. Bennett’s side, is the irrigation system that seems to be in constant need of maintenance . . . when it is not getting vandalized and or otherwise damaged.

So, if you enjoy having these great parks and green spaces in your neighborhood, and you happen to see Jim Bennett and his crew out there clearing dead wood, mulching, planting or, in Jim’s familiar stance, his tall frame, bent over repairing a sprinkler head, give them a beep of the horn. It would be a small recognition for the years of dedicated hard work he and his volunteers have given our community.

The above "was" the end of the story, however, after the May 16th storm, I asked Jim to make a statement as well as a call for help.

"The May 16th storm took a toll on our urban canopy that’s already been weakened by freezes and drought from over the past few years. Fortunately, most trees survived the strong winds. We will though need to repair the damage to the mulch beds and sprinkler systems before we can start replanting. Given the uncertainty of our upcoming summer rains, most new tree planting will probably have to wait for Fall weather.

If you’d like to help with the repairs and/or replanting, send an email to boulevard@houstonheights.org.

Donations toward new trees can be made at www.houstonheights.org." #HoustonHeightsStrong

Donna & Jim Bennett

Rose Garden at 20th St.

Marmion Park