Inside Today: Solid Waste Management Department Independence Day collection schedule Page 4
Covering the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest & the neighborhoods of North Houston Saturday, June 28, 2025 • Vol. 70 • No. 26
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INSIDE.
METRO expands Community Connector Microtransit to Near Northside broader METRONow initiative, aimed at transforming public transit across Greater METRO’s Community Houston with a focus on eqConnector service is making uity, access, and sustainability. its way to a new neighborhood. A Commitment to Beginning Monday, June 23, Equitable Mobility 2025, residents of Houston’s “Expanding the Community Near Northside gained access to the agency’s all-electric, Connector to Near Northside on-demand microtransit pro- reflects our continued commitgram, thanks to a partnership ment to equitable transit,” said between METRO, the City of METRO Board Chair Elizabeth Houston, and nonprofit mobil- Gonzalez Brock. “We are workity advocate Evolve Houston. ing to ensure safe, reliable, and The expansion marks the convenient access to METRO’s latest milestone in METRO’s broader network. Our goal is to By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
deliver solutions that not only make public transit easier to choose, but the best choice for getting around.” The Community Connector fills critical transit gaps by offering flexible, electric shuttle rides within a defined zone. Riders can book trips via the Ride Circuit app and connect to key destinations and METRO’s existing bus and rail system. Operating Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., the service is designed to See MICROTRANSIT P. 2
Photo courtesy of METRO
BREAKING BARRIERS
Right to Read: Local workshop addresses literacy gaps for kids with learning disabilities
Republic Boot Company adds another feather to its Stetson: A partnership with the Houston Texans Cheerleaders By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com
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In the market for a home generator? Here’s how to choose
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Photos courtesy of Harris County Constable’s Office Pct. 1
Constable Rosen and former civilian employee Daniel Gartland, who lives with neurological differences
Precinct 1 Constable’s Office embraces neurodivergence, ability over labels international climate activist Greta Thunberg has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder; Oscar-winning actor Anthony Hopkins speaks about how having Asperger’s syndrome has shaped his career. Also, a recent Harvard Business Review report indicated that neurodivergent employees often excel at “thinking outside the box” and focusing sharply on work tasks.
By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com Pet of the Week: Meet Cheddar, the cheesiest of puppies
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Comings & Goings: Who’s new to the neighborhood, and who’s leaving
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In a quiet but deliberate shift that reflects a broader understanding of inclusion, the Harris County Pct. 1 Constable’s Office under Constable Alan Rosen has become a champion for neurodiversity in law enforcement hiring — proving that diversity isn’t just about race, ethnicity, or language. “We pride ourselves on being a place where highly qualified people from widely varying cultures and backgrounds can find an opportunity to step up and serve the community,” said Rosen. That includes individuals who are neurodivergent — a term encompassing a range of neurological conditions including autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). “They’re in good company with some of the world’s biggest stars,”
One of the most recognizable sounds in Texas culture—the rhythmic thump of cowboy boots—just found a new home on the NFL sidelines. Republic Boot Company, Houston’s premier custom cowboy bootmaker, is now the official performance boot provider for the Houston Texans Cheerleaders, outfitting the squad with handcrafted boots designed for high performance, dazzling style, and unmistakable Houston heritage. The partnership was formally unveiled on June 6 at a celebratory event marking the 100th anniversary of Republic’s flagship building in the Heights—a historic 10,578-square-foot retail strip that the company recently purchased and restored. The evening was a fusion of past and present: a tribute to legacy, a toast to craftsmanship, and a spotlight on the future of one of Houston’s most unique businesses. See CHEERS P. 2
Focusing on Skills, Not Stereotypes
Pct. 1 Corporal Wilmer Moran, who recently received a diagnosis of autism
Rosen noted, referencing public figures like Simone Biles, Greta Thunberg, and Anthony Hopkins, who have each spoken openly about their own diagnoses. Houston-based Olympian gymnast Simone Biles openly deals with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder;
Partnering with Houston-based nonprofit Incuentro Transition and Employment Services, Pct. 1 has taken a skills-first approach to hiring. Incuentro CEO Wendy Dawson, whose own son is on the autism spectrum, praised the department for evaluating candidates based on job capabilities rather than traditional social expectations or resume references. See NEURODIVERSITY P. 2
Photo courtesy of Matthew Rood / Republic Boot Company
Republic Boot Company hand-crafted performance boots for the Texans Cheerleaders
Heights resident reflects on career and community for National Women in Engineering Day By STEFANIE THOMAS editor@theleadernews.com New Business: Garden and Oak Pilates Studio now open
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On June 23, 2025, engineers, educators, and advocates across the country celebrated National Women in Engineering Day, honoring the women breaking barriers and solving some of the world’s toughest challenges. Among those recognized was Heights resident Marie Teixeira Newton, a passionate leader in the energy sector who
also devotes significant time to community service through the Junior League of Houston. As the Vito Waterflood BOM Asset Development Lead at Shell, Newton has built a career in Deepwater operations, helping safely deliver energy across the United States and the world. Her work involves leading major offshore development efforts, ensuring new wells are safely drilled and efficiently brought online. “I like solving tough problems
and contributing to something bigger than myself,” Newton said. “Engineering was a natural fit—it aligned with how I was raised: to work hard, help others, and be able to provide for yourself and your family.”
Navigating a MaleDominated Industry
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, Newton said she’s seen the energy industry evolve and become more inclusive. Still, she brings a distinct
perspective to her role—one she believes strengthens teams tackling high-risk, high-impact projects. “Everyone brings their own experiences and knowledge. When that’s truly embraced, we can unlock the toughest problems,” she said. “For me, that’s meant multitasking while staying focused on details—both in the technical side of the project and in how people are feeling. See ENGINEERING P. 2
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Submitted photo
Marie Teixeira Newton with her family.