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Saturday, April 6, 2024 • Vol. 69 • No.14
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Community group emerges in opposition to TxDOT’s I-10 expansion plans
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By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com Amidst the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) ambitious proposals to overhaul a 6.3-mile stretch of Interstate 10 between Voss Road and I-45, a stretch that in part defines the southern border of the Heights proper, a grassroots movement has emerged, challenging the status quo and advocating for a more community-centric approach. This group, known as No Higher No Wider I-10, has become a vocal voice in the debate over the Inner Katy Managed Lanes Project, pushing back against
TxDOT’s plans for elevated lanes and expanded infrastructure. Driven by concerns over property seizures, environmental impacts, and neighborhood fragmentation, No Higher No Wider I-10 is making waves in Houston’s civic landscape. Founded by concerned residents and community activists, the group aims to rally support for alternative solutions that prioritize neighborhood integrity and sustainability. TxDOT’s Project Background The TxDOT Houston District’s Inner Katy Managed Lanes Project aims to
address longstanding issues of congestion, mobility, and drainage along the I-10 corridor. With the segment between I-610 and I-45 ranking as the 7th most congested roadway segment in Texas, according to the Texas Transportation Institute, the need for intervention is evident. Additionally, the corridor crosses approximately 85 acres of the 100-year floodplain, leading to impassable conditions during heavy rain events. Despite these challenges, TxDOT’s proposed solutions have drawn criticism from community members and advocacy groups like No Higher No Wider I-10.
HAIR, CATS, AND ART
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Proposed Improvements and Possible Displacement Among the proposed improvements by TxDOT are the addition of managed lanes, reconstruction of generalpurpose lanes, and drainage enhancements. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential displacement of residential properties and businesses, as well as the acquisition of additional right-of-way. Alternative solutions, such as a capped freeway design, have been put forward by No Higher No Wider I-10 as viable alter-
See I-10 EXPANSION P. 5
From Pup to Pub Pro: Dogs learn to sip, sit, and stay with Drink With Your Dog brewery manners classes By RUBENA GRACIA The Leader News Contributor
Pickleball tournament to be held at Memorial Park
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Step inside, get inspired with Houston Heights Association Home Tour
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Susan Venus, owner of Venus Hair and the Cataillic, in front of her business on 19th St. in the Heights.
Photo by Stefanie Thomas)
The unconventional charms of Venus Hair and the Cataillic By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com Houston Art Car Parade starts rolling April 11-13
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Pet Puzzle: From soggy struggles to sudsy success
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On 19th St. in the Heights, there’s a unique gem that catches the eye of every passersby, every time - the Venus Hair Cataillic. This blinged-out vehicle is impossible to miss, a steady fixture with a permanent parking spot just outside Venus Hair. Guarded by a life-size Elvis statue, it is an art car adorned with vibrant colors, intricate designs and, yes, lots of cats. The Cataillic, a.k.a. the Venus Hairse, is the aptly named brainchild of Susan Venus, owner of Venus Hair. Susan recently shared the fascinating journey of Cataillic, from its humble beginnings to becoming one of the highlights of the renowned Houston Art Car Parade, one stroke of the paint brush and a string of beads at a time. The Birth of an Art Car Susan’s fascination with art cars began when she was a face painter at the Texas Renaissance Festival decades ago and happened to meet some art car enthusiasts. “Initially I had a bicycle, an art bike,”
Art Valet: New artists join First Saturday Arts Market
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By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor A Heights springtime tradition continues with the return of the annual Great Taste of the Heights event, happening on April 20. Hosted by The All Saints Catholic Community, this beloved food festival promises an unforgettable expe-
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See DOGS P. 5
Photo by Stefanie Thomas
The back of the Cataillic is for the living, with a rich, cozy space for a comfy ride.
Susan reminisced. “It was a tandem, and we put a motor on it. In the end, the bike had three mannequins with big hair on it, and we called it Three Chicks on Wheels.” After eight years of participating in the Houston Art Car Parade with her tandem on a float, Susan got word about an old Cadillac hearse for sale at the Salvation Army. And so, in 2001,
Susan’s artistic vision expanded when she stumbled upon this unique find, priced at $750. “At first it was really meek, and sometimes I wished I hadn’t started with such a big canvas,” she chuckled. “I had bought it with the intent to turn it into art, and at first I wanted to cut See ART CAR P. 3
Photo by Ashley Minor, Eureka Heights
Kevin the dog attends the Drink With Your Dog Program created by Heights pet behaviorist Joanna Wachowiak-Finlaison.
Great Taste of the Heights: A culinary extravaganza benefiting All Saints Catholic Community
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Dog owners in and around the Heights now have a way to ensure Fido minds his manners when he comes along to socialize on a restaurant patio. Heights businesswoman and pet behaviorist Joanna Wachowiak-Finlaison has created a new Drink With Your Dog® program and partnered with Eureka Heights Brewing Company to offer courses that will help pups act like ladies and gentlemen so the two of you (and other patrons) can better enjoy the time away from home. Joanna is the owner of High Five Animal Training in the Heights, working with pet parents to help resolve behavior issues in both dogs and cats, using positive reinforcement methods and teaching effective cross-species communication. She has certifications in both dog and cat training and belongs to several animal training-related organizations. She also writes a monthly pet behavior column for The Leader. In 2019, Texas Senate Bill 476 became law – the “Dogs on Patios” law – allowing restaurants to easily be designated “dogfriendly” if they commit to certain health and safety guidelines. Since then, Joanna has seen a shift in Houston from dogs not being allowed anywhere, to dogs often being allowed in public spaces. She and her husband often visit Eureka Heights – Joanna’s favorite local spot. Originally, she took her dog with her, until she realized that her dog was getting older and no longer enjoyed being in loud, crowded spaces. This is why she started the Drink With Your Dog program, because she saw other dogs that were overwhelmed and not having fun.
rience filled with tantalizing flavors, live entertainment, and a fantastic silent auction and raffle. Kerry Anne Mooney has led the charge as the event coordinator of Great Taste for 19 years and talks about the inspiration for the event. “After many years hosting a Family Fun Day at All Saints Catholic Community, we brain-
stormed on how to enhance that event, broaden our appeal to the community and raise more funds for our ministries,” Mooney said. “Council members who had experience in Houston’s extensive restaurant industry expressed the idea to Submitted photo invite local Heights-area restaurants For 19 years, Great Taste of the Heights has served up See GREAT TASTE P. 5
food from local restaurants and live entertainment. This year’s festival will be held April 20.
Allegiance Bank and CommunityBank of Texas have come together as Stellar Bank. While our name has changed, our commitment to serving our customers and supporting our local communities will stay the same. We look forward to a bright future together.
2222 North Durham | 281.517.8760 Margaret Vandever, Bank Office President Cecilia Rodriguez, Office Manager