Inside Today: April is Volunteer Month, and two Sawyer Heights women stand out Page 2
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Saturday, April 27, 2024 • Vol. 69 • No.17
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Lutheran North Academy announces closure after declining enrollment By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com In a letter dated April 22, 2024, addressed to the Lutheran North Community, the Board of Directors of the Lutheran Education Association of Houston (LEAH) announced the closure of Lutheran North Academy (LNA) at the end of the 2023-2024 academic year. The
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decision, described as “painful” and “unexpected,” was made after careful consideration and prayerful deliberation. According to school leaders, declining enrollment and recent trends in admissions sealed the fate of the institution. “Even though the 2023-2024 school year began with lowerthan-expected enrollment, early signs in the 2024-2025 admissions
season gave us hope for growth. Throughout the year, we closely tracked increased interest and visits from prospective students, and we were excited about potential enrollment gains,” the statement reads. “It was only recently that most of those prospective families, and unexPhoto by Adam Zuvanich pected current families, made their Lutheran High North, the 41-year-old private school at 1130 W. 34th St., underwent a $225,000 renovation to improve its curb appeal in 2021.
See LNA P. 5
PAWSITIVE IMPACT
On Duty, On Demand: How the Heights Constable Patrol Program creates an extra layer of security
INSIDE.
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com New cocktail bar coming to West Heights later this year
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STAAR testing is in full swing, but not everyone participates
Page 4 L to R: Spice the dog, Eleanor B., Maya B., Emma P., Summer B., Trevi W., Maia D., Joey R., Camilla W.
Urban South HTX taproom closed as of April 19
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Photo by Fiona Layfield
Harvard Elementary’s Honor Society students raise $1,200 for local no-kill shelter By RUBENA GRACIA The Leader News Contributor
HISD When I Grow Up Expo set for April 27
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Students create bridges for Engineers Alliance for the Arts Showcase
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Chicken coop company dubs the Heights top urban haven in Texas
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THE INDEX. People ���������������������������������������2 Topics ����������������������������������������4 Classifieds ���������������������������������6 Local Culture �����������������������������8
What do students from Harvard Elementary’s Honor Society and Friends For Life have in common? Both are passionate about finding forever homes for unsheltered animals in Houston. These civic-minded students – Maia, Camilla, Joey, Eleanor, Emma, Trevi, Maya, and Summer – are part of the National Elementary Honor Society, which asks students to work on community volunteering projects. They originally tried to volunteer at local animal shelters, but soon discovered that the minimum age to volunteer is 16. Ludivine Laurent Bureau, a parent of one of the students, told the Leader, “That didn’t deter them. They decided to work together to raise money for a ‘no kill’ shelter. ‘No kill’ was important because they were heartbroken to learn that often shelters cannot keep all the animals put up for adoption.” For the March 17 St. Patrick’s Day
In the heart of the Heights operates a program dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of its residents and businesses. The Heights Constable Patrol Program, managed by the Houston Heights Association, is a proactive initiative aimed at supplementing Houston Police Department law enforcement availability and providing rapid response to security concerns within the community. At the helm of this program is Tera Starr, the Chair of Heights Security and a board member of the Houston Heights Association. Starr, a passionate advocate for community safety, shared insights into the program’s inner workings and its impact on neighborhood security. “The Heights Constable Patrol Program is a concierge security service available to our community through the Houston Heights Association, in partnership with the Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen’s Office,” Starr explained. “By becoming a subscriber, you will be able to count on reliable and responsive constable’s deputies to help you immediately if you have a security emergency at your home or business.” Starr emphasized the program’s commitment to providing residents with peace of mind and rapid assistance in times of need. “It’s not just about patrolling the streets; it’s about ensuring that our residents feel safe and secure in their homes,” she said. See CONSTABLE PROGRAM P. 7
Photo by Ludivine Laurent Bureau
Harvard Elementary NEHS students at their Sunday, March 17, 2024, St. Patrick’s Day Lemonade Stand fundraising event to support Friends For Life.
lemonade stand and bake sale, the students prepared Rice Krispy treats and green lemonade, and also sold prepackaged dog treats at the school. The event raised $600, and the amount was doubled by a corporate matching gift. This generous donation was a welcome surprise to Friends For Life. Dr. Shelby Calabrese, principal
at Harvard Elementary, said, “The National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) is a service organization at Harvard that is available to 4th and 5th grade students who earn and maintain all As, or all As and one B, on each report card. This aligns to the first See NEHS P. 5
Submitted photo
Precinct 1 Constable’s Office deputies under contract with the HHA not only respond to emergencies, they’re also available to provide safety tips, engage with the community, and provide an overall sense of enhanced safety.
The Great Taste of the Heights leaves taste buds delighted and hearts full By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor On Saturday, April 20, despite the looming threat of inclement weather, approximately 1000 enthusiastic foodies gathered at The Great Taste of the Heights event, transforming concerns into a flavorful celebration. Hosted by All Saints Catholic Church at 215 E. 10th St., attendees were treated to ample serving samples showcasing the diverse culinary offerings of 15 local restaurants. Guests reveled in the opportunity to indulge in delectable treats from
Photo courtesy of Kerry Mooney
A few raindrops were no deterrent for die-hard foodies at The Great Taste of the Heights April 20, 2024.
Heights’ area eateries, savoring each bite amidst a convivial atmosphere. The highlight of the evening was the chance for attendees to cast their votes for their favorite establishments, ultimately crowning three deserving winners. Taking home the title of “Best Personality” was VooDoo Doughnut, renowned for their enticing array of sweet delights. Offering an irresistible selection including the acclaimed Bacon Maple Bar, VooDoo Doughnut captured hearts with their unique flavors and charm. Visit one of their two Houston locations at 1214 Westheimer
in Montrose and 3715 Washington in the Heights to experience their one-ofa-kind creations. SMOQ emerged victorious in the category of “Best Bite” wowing attendees with their mouthwatering smoked brisket. Experienced Great Taste attendees lined up early at this booth to partake in the savory delights of this esteemed establishment that serves Texas style BBQ with a TexMex twist. SMOQ hosts several pop-up events every month. Come early before they are sold out.
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See GREAT TASTE P. 7