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Saturday, November 30, 2024 • Vol. 69 • No. 48
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Heights Artisan Market returns for its 12th year of celebrating local art and craftsmanship By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
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The Heights Artisan Market, a beloved holiday tradition in the Heights, will return Dec. 6 and 7 at All Saints Catholic Church’s community hall, located at 215 E 10th St. Known for its carefully curated selection of high-quality art and crafts, the market invites locals and visitors alike to cel-
ebrate the holiday season by supporting Texas artists and small businesses. Founded in 2012 by artist and then Heights’ resident Chris Magisano, the Heights Artisan Market emerged as a way to showcase local artistry in a welcoming community environment. Magisano, who had previously coproduced the Firehouse Art Show throughout the 1990s with col-
laborators Paul DeRigne and Liz Conces Spencer, saw a need for a new event where artists could present their work just before the winter holidays. “Creating a holiday market that honored the neighborhood’s artistic spirit felt like a natural next step,” Magisano said. The market originally debuted See ARTISAN MARKET P. 3
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Jeweler Chris Magisano is a co-producer of the Heights Artisan Market.
Jūn: A Fusion LOCAL TALENT of cultures TAKES CENTER STAGE and flavors in Houston’s Heights By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor
Waltrip HS robotics team heads to state competition
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Christmas Village at Bayou Bend: 14 acres of holiday cheer
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How to save on your electric bill during the season of lights
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Rooftop Cinema’s fireside movie lineup for the holidays
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Mistletoe Magic on the Lawn to benefit Kids’ Meals
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THE INDEX. People ���������������������������������������2 Topics ����������������������������������������4 Classifieds ���������������������������������6 Local Culture �����������������������������8
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Everett Baumgarten at The Great Wall of China
Oak Forest youth makes opera debut as The Little Prince
By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor Oak Forest resident Everett Baumgarten is stepping into the spotlight in a new way this December, making his opera debut as The Little Prince with Opera in the Heights's production of the same title. At just 12 years old, Baumgarten is already a seasoned performer, having taken the stage in Houston and even abroad with an impressive six-month tour of The Sound of Music in China. A 7th grader at Wharton Dual Language Academy in HISD, Baumgarten brings a passion for art in all its forms—from drawing and crocheting to playing soccer and performing. Now, with his first operatic role, he is ready to take his talents to new heights. For Baumgarten, transitioning from musical theater to opera has been an exciting challenge. Unlike his previous roles, where music is interspersed
At Jūn, a vibrant restaurant in Houston’s Heights neighborhood, culinary creativity takes center stage as Chef Evelyn Garcia and Chef Henry Lu blend their diverse backgrounds to create what they call “New Asian American” cuisine. Known for its bold, comforting dishes, Jūn is a testament to Garcia and Lu’s unique life experiences, reflecting flavors from both Houston and the Bronx, where they grew up. “Jun showcases the similarities between our backgrounds,” says Garcia. “We come from completely different parts of the country and our heritage is from opposite sides of the world, but when you look deeper, there are connections between ingredients, techniques, and flavors.” The result is a menu filled with rich and diverse tastes that remind Houstonians of dishes they’ve enjoyed for years, yet with refreshing and innovative twists. Since opening, Jūn has not only garnered a loyal local following but has also received critical acclaim, including a James Beard Award semi-finalist nomination and other notable accolades over the last two years. This recognition, Garcia explains, underscores the importance of authenticity in their cooking. “We won't do something if we don't believe in it 100%, so it means so much to be recognized for doing what we love and are passionate about,” she shares. Beyond the kitchen, Garcia and Lu are See JŪN P. 2
Baumgarten performs The Sound of Music in China
with spoken dialogue, opera requires him to sing continuously throughout the performance. “With the opera, everything is music, everything is sung,” he explains. “In musical theatre, there’s usually breaks in the music with
spoken lines. With The Little Prince, I’ve been working on the music and haven’t gotten into the staging of the show much yet, so one thing I’m excited to see is how it will all come See LOCAL TALENT P. 5
Photo by Luke Chang, Jia Media
Jūn was named one of the best new restaurants in America by the Robb Report.
National Diabetes Month: Dr. María Colon-Gonzalez on humanized medicine and holistic health By LISA MORALES The Leader News Contributor In recognition of National Diabetes Month, Dr. María Colon-Gonzalez is offering a fresh perspective on healthcare that goes beyond the traditional approach, aiming to address the complex physical and emotional challenges often faced by those managing chronic conditions like diabetes. Her practice, which emphasizes “humanized medicine,” provides patients with a holistic
approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit, creating a meaningful alternative to conventional healthcare. “I developed the concept of humanized medicine because true health extends far beyond treating symptoms and lab results; it involves seeing and supporting the whole person at their very core,” Colon-Gonzalez explained. “In the conventional healthcare model, care is often reduced to an 8-minute appointment, where a pen and prescription pad are the primary
tools. This rushed approach can compromise the therapeutic relationship, which is essential for meaningful healing and well-being.” Colon-Gonzalez continued, “Humanized medicine restores this lost connection, allowing us to explore the root causes of symptoms and address the complex factors influencing health. By looking beyond a set of isolated issues, we empower individuSee COLON-GONZALEZ P. 2
Dr. Maria Colon-Gonzales
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