As Texas’s 18th Congressional District goes nearly a year without federal representation, the two leading candidates in the upcoming special election are drawing sharp contrasts with state and federal leadership while outlining their own priorities for the dis-
trict on issues including flooding, voting access, and pollution.
Amanda Edwards, a former Houston City Council member and public finance attorney, and Christian Menefee, the former Harris County Attorney, answered questions from The Leader about issues facing the district ahead of the special election. The winner will serve the remaining months of the term
before facing a March primary against Congressman Al Green under newly redrawn district maps.
Mail Voting and New USPS Postmark Rules
Both candidates expressed concern over new USPS postmark rules that could result in mail-in ballots being postmarked days after voters deposit
them, potentially disqualifying ballots that arrive after state deadlines.
“Democracy should not hinge on mailroom logistics, and voters should not be punished for a postage system that has been sabotaged by the Trump administration,” Edwards said.
Menefee reiterated that if you drop
By ALEKSA RADENOVIC The Leader News Contributor
On most Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, as the city’s bustle settles into midweek rhythm, a different kind of movement rolls through the streets of The Heights neighborhood. Groups of inline skaters gather in neighborhoods across the city for Space City Skaters’ regular rides — known as Tuesday Night Skate and Wednesday Social Skate — that wind through urban corridors and bring people together through shared motion and community.
Space City Skaters, a grassroots Houston crew, builds on the city’s long street skating history, tracing roots in part to earlier crews such as Urban Animals in the 1970s, Skate Trash in the 1990s and Inline Swine in the 2000s. The organization’s mission statement says its goal is to unite people through a shared love of urban
skating and exploration, and to promote safety and connection by rolling together through the city. According to organizers, the group currently includes about 215 participants, a number that continues to grow as more skaters discover the rides. Participants range in age from their early 20s to their late 60s, reflecting the group’s emphasis on accessibility rather than speed or performance. Organizers say all are welcome, regardless of background or experience, and that the diversity of ages and skill levels is part of what defines the community.
Beyond the weekly rides, the crew organizes larger celebrations of street skating, including Sk8Houston 2026, a four-day event scheduled for March 19–22, 2026, designed to showcase the city’s vibrant skate scene and welcome skaters from across the country.
STAFF REPORTS
The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is inviting the community to get outdoors and celebrate the power and beauty of trees during its annual Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday, Jan. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free, family-friendly event blends education and play, offering hands-on activities that highlight the essential role trees play in keeping Houston — and the planet — healthy.
Visitors can take part in lumberjack
games, build whimsical fairy houses, enjoy tree-themed crafts, and explore the Arboretum’s forest trails on a selfguided hike. Johnny Appleseed may even make an appearance. All crafts and activities will be available while supplies last.
Arbor Day is more than a festive tradition — it’s a chance to recognize the profound impact trees have on daily life. Trees generate oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, support wildlife habitats, recharge groundwater, stabilize soil and reduce erosion. They also provide
shade, food, medicines and much of the natural beauty woven throughout Houston’s landscape.
The event is sponsored by ExxonMobil and Bartlett Tree Experts. Admission and parking are free, and the program will take place rain or shine.
The Houston Arboretum is located at 120 West Loop North, between Post Oak Boulevard and Woodway Drive.
For more details or to learn about Arboretum membership, visit houstonarboretum.org or call 713-681-8433.
By BETSY DENSON The Leader News Contributor
The Houston Independent School District says it wants to give students a clearer path to living-wage careers by expanding access to state-of-the-art training facilities in fields like healthcare, welding, and cybersecurity. But to do so, the district is phasing out popular programs at some local schools, like graphic design, that officials say don’t lead to high-paying jobs, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from parents at the affected schools.
At January’s board meeting, HISD’s state-appointed Board of Managers voted unanimously to sunset graphic design and digital communications career pathways at four schools. In their place, students at ten campuses - Heights, Kashmere, Northside, Waltrip, Furr, Sam Houston MSTC, North Forest, Booker T. Washington, Mickey Leland, and Wheatley - will have access to 16 career programs at the Barbara Jordan Career Center, a centralized hub in northeast Houston that the district is expanding with new labs for trades, healthcare, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like robotics and drones.
HFD Arson arrests man in 3-alarm fire at shuttered church
COMMUNITY REPORTS
HFD Arson Bureau has arrested a man charged in connection with the large fire that burned at a former church on the North Freeway. David Ross Gibson, 42, was taken into custody in connection with a Jan. 12 3-alarm fire at 5621 North Freeway. HFD Arson reports that Gibson admitted to setting the fire that spread to three buildings on the property. He is charged with reckless arson in the 178th district court.
At 12:39 p.m. Monday, January 12, HFD responded to reports of a fire at 5621 North Freeway, a former church complex now owned by the Texas Department of Transportation. Firefighters reported heavy smoke and the
fire was upgraded to a 3-alarm response, with 112 HFD employees on scene in a coordinated response.
"I am immensely proud of everyone who has worked on this fire, from Emergency Operations to Arson and everyone in between," said Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz. "We're fortunate that this large fire did not injure any residents or firefighters."
After identifying a person of interest in the moments after the fire started, HFD Arson worked with the Houston Police Department to locate and arrest Gibson. He is booked in the Harris County Jail on a $5,000 bond.
“With skating you can explore the city in a different way,” said Angelina, a financial advisor who moved to Houston from Novosibirsk, Russia, a few years ago. “You see parts of the city that cars skip over.”
Angelina grew up skating with friends after school and on weekends, covering miles, sharing music and stories, and building the kind of community that made skating an integral part of her life. When she found Space City Skaters’ rides, she said, she rediscovered that sense of connection. In the years since relocating, she focused on establishing a stable life — securing a strong job, completing a master’s degree, buying a house and, eventually, becoming a cat owner. Skating, however, became the unexpected constant.
“The group is very tight,” she said. “Everyone supports everyone, no matter what your level is.”
The rides are free and informal, with no competition
cles into corridors of collective movement.
The rides contribute to Houston’s evolving sense of place. Skaters move past office towers and neighborhood bars, over quiet residential blocks and through open public space. In those shared miles, they say, the city feels smaller and more connected.
For Angelina, the rides offered continuity between her past and present — a reminder that community can be rebuilt, even in unfamiliar places.
“It’s not just skating,” she said. “It’s finding your people.”
or rank, and participants often wear reflective gear and lights as they move together. What matters, skaters say, is mutual support — a principle that draws riders of all abilities and backgrounds.
Urban scholars sometimes describe activities like group skating as a form of reclaiming public space. For a few hours each week, riders carve their own routes through a city often defined by traffic and distance, turning streets designed for vehi-
For more information about upcoming rides and events, Space City Skaters shares updates through its website at spacecityskaters. com and social media channels, including Facebook and Instagram. Organizers also encourage anyone interested to approach the group during a ride. Skaters say newcomers are welcome, and that growing the community is as much a goal as covering miles.
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Color Factory, the interactive art experience that invites visitors to experience the joy of color, welcomes guests to start off the new year with new energy and a fresh new hue. On Jan. 25 from 4-6 p.m., Color Factory’s Houston location welcomes guests to reflect and restart.
The exhibit will feature a live Aura Reader immersed in the colorful installations of Color Factory! Along with the Color Factory experience, event guests will receive complimentary aura photography to help them discover the unique energy they’re bringing into 2026. These personalized sessions require advance sign-up and
your ballot in the mailbox on time, that vote should count.
“[The] government’s job is to make participation easier, not riskier,” he said.
Both candidates support standardized federal deadlines that account for postal delays, as well as federal funding for same-day handstamping at post offices during election periods.
Voting Rights and the John Lewis Act
Texas’s Senate Bill 1 has received national attention for its high rate of rejected mail ballots. Research from the Brennan Center for Justice found the impact falls disproportionately on nonwhite voters. Menefee and Edwards say passing the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore federal preclearance is a top priority.
“The John Lewis Act restores an updated preclearance formula, so states with a pattern of discrimination cannot change voting rules without federal approval,” said Menefee. “That stops voter suppression before it happens instead of forcing communities to clean up the damage after the fact.”
Edwards emphasized multiple provisions, including strengthening protections for coalition districts so communities of color are not politically fragmented, and requiring transparency and review of election law changes before harm occurs.
The candidates voiced strong support for expanding vote-by-mail access nationwide. “Voting by mail should be simple and accessible, just like voting in person,” said Menefee.
Redistricting and Gerrymandering
The mid-decade redistricting that reshaped TX18, increasing its Black population from 34% to nearly 45%, has been criticized for concentrating Black voters in one district while diminishing their influence in surrounding ones. Edwards and Menefee condemned the practice and called for federal intervention.
“What we are seeing in Texas is not accidental. It is deliberate racism and manipulation,” Edwards said.
Menefee framed the new maps as a power grab: “Voters should choose their representatives, not the other way around.”
The redistricting creates an unusual challenge for whoever wins the special election, as they will immediately
have limited availability, so be sure to reserve your spot early to see which hue defines your new year! Tickets are first come first serve and available at https://www.colorfactory.co/. Color Factory has been voted America’s #1 immersive art experience the past two years, immerses guests through art and color with experiences that engage all the senses, including installations and local artist partnerships across a variety of exhibits.
face a March primary against Congressman Al Green.
Menefee pointed to the backlog left by nearly a year without representation. “They need help with Social Security, passports, veterans benefits, and disaster assistance. That work cannot wait,” he said. He blamed Abbott for creating “purposeful confusion and lack of representation” by delaying the election.
Edwards said balancing constituent services with another campaign is part of the job.
“We witnessed in the passing of the Big Beautiful Bill how important one vote can be in our electoral system,” she said. “On an issue like this, you have to walk and chew gum at the same time. The greatest campaigning tool I will have at my disposal is to deliver real results for the people of my district.”
Harris County Election Authority Challenged
Governor Greg Abbott’s threat to strip Harris County of election authority and the state’s decision to hand over voter rolls, including dates of birth and partial Social Security numbers, to the Justice Department alarmed Menefee and Edwards.
“Greg Abbott cannot win Harris County, so he is trying to control it,” Menefee said. “That is what this is about. Power, not security.”
Edwards called state takeovers of local election administration “dangerous and anti-democratic,” adding that “elections should be run by those accountable to local voters, not weaponized for political control.”
Both candidates called for stronger federal protections for voter data. Edwards supports stricter federal safeguards limiting how voter information is shared, requiring encryption standards, and preventing partisan misuse of sensitive personal data.
“Trust in our democracy depends on security and transparency,” she said.
“Handing over sensitive
voter data is dangerous and reckless,” Menefee said. “Voting should never come with the fear that your personal information will be misused.”
Flooding and Environmental Concerns
With updated FEMA flood maps delayed, 8 years after Hurricane Harvey exposed critical gaps, flood mitigation funding is top of mind for the candidates.
Edwards pointed to her City Council experience during “three 500-year flood events in a row” and pledged to pursue FEMA pre-disaster mitigation funding, HUD disaster recovery funds, and Army Corps partnerships. “While we cannot stop it from raining, we must be prepared to catch it when it does,” she said.
Menefee emphasized equitable distribution. “I will fight for major federal investment in flood control, resilient infrastructure, and climate preparedness, with a focus on the neighborhoods that have been hit first and worst,” he said.
On pollution in communities like Fifth Ward, where residents face elevated cancer rates, both candidates vowed to protect EPA enforcement. Menefee pointed to his record as County Attorney suing polluters. “No one should get sick because of where they live,” he said. “In places like Fifth Ward, pollution has been ignored for generations.”
For Edwards, who has family members in Fifth Ward, the issue hits close to home: “Public health should not be sacrificed for the bottom line of corporations.”
Day One Priorities
With less than a year before the term ends, both candidates said constituent services would be their immediate focus.
Edwards said her priority would be securing federal disaster resilience and infrastructure funding for Harris County neighborhoods hit hardest by flooding and pollution. She also pledged to immediately tackle the casework backlog, including FEMA claims, Social Security and VA cases, immigration and passport delays, and housing and healthcare appeals.
Menefee is also focused on day-one service restoration. “This district has gone too long without someone in Washington fighting for them,” he said. “My office will be focused on clearing the casework backlog, reopening access to federal
photos
Congressional District 18 runoff candidates Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards
Photo released by HFD CHARGED: David Ross Gibson
Color Factory Houston
Photo courtesy of Color Factory
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THE TOPICS. News from the block heads
To the Residents of Morbid Meadows, Greetings, neighbors! We at the Morbid Meadows Home Owners Association, or MMHOA, on occasion reluc tantly bring you up to speed on what’s happening in our happy neighborhood and what your MMHOA is doing to make it safe, secure and almost livable. First, please take down your Christmas lights and decora tions, especially those among us who never took them down last year. Rudolph’s nose was shot off by a Roman Candle on the last Fourth of July. Good news! The neighborhood homeless shelters are being upgraded to caves. Also, the Army Corps of Engineers has lifted our designation as a Flood-Prone Zone Every 10 Years, and has re-designated Morbid Meadows as Underwater in a Heavy Dew. Our flood insurance rates should reflect this change as soon as we dry out from Hurricane Harvey. Incidentally, those blue tarps need to be replaced or at least patched. There have been some – actually scores – of questions about our garbage pickup. We have rejected the city’s proposal of pickups every other March and your board is negotiating with
Lynn Ashby Columnist
By KEVIN HOFFMAN, RUHI THAPAR, LANCE HE, MAYA SELA, AND DR. ARINDAM SARKAR
Special to The Leader
Skin cancer is the most common cancer, with almost two million cases diagnosed each year across the United States. Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. Despite originating from the skin, skin cancer can spread to other parts of the body, harming your organs. One type of skin cancer is melanoma, which can appear as black spots similar to moles. Melanoma normally appears on sun-exposed parts of the body, so the face, neck, legs, and chest are the most vulnerable. Although melanoma only represents around
overs, dry leftovers, other bins for colored or white paper and disposable diapers, wet and dry. That makes 14 separate bins plus another for body parts. You may have noticed that our constable, Sgt. Terry “Truncheon” O’Terry is no longer patrolling our neighborhood. He quit after he was wounded while trying to settle a terrible domestic argument that led to a fistfight, one fire bombing, and a shootout which eventually required the intervention of a SWAT force. Mrs. O’Terry says they are now seeing a marriage counselor. Our children’s playground has been temporarily closed due to an unusually large presence of pedophiles.
1% of skin cancers, it is more deadly if it is overlooked and left untreated.
Risk Factors
There are a variety of factors that may predispose you to developing skin cancer. The number one factor is family history of skin cancer, as members of your family may share similar genetics or life experiences that may contribute to the development of cancer.
The second most important factor is related to sun exposure. UV light from the sun, including sun booths, can hurt the cells on your skin. Those who have had a sunburn can remember how painful they can be, and they occur due to the sun damage. In melanoma, the cells that darken skin, called melanocytes, have been
You can go to the Texas Sex Offender Registration Program to find out which neighbors are listed. As you know, Morbid Meadows has a strict Noise Level Rule which bans howitzer and mortar testing and front-loader racing after 6 p.m. We realize that the change on or off (we can never get that straight) of Daylight Saving Time can be confusing, but just to be safe, make it 5
There also seems to be some confusion about the recent changes in our U.S. congressional districts. The new district for those on the left side of Toxic Dump Drive is now part of the district which is currently unrepresented due to the ouster of Rep, Shady for an indictment on high treason, bribery, and failure to stay sober during committee meetings, although it was noted that he shared his bottle of Johnny Walker with several of his colleagues. The residences in the 200 block of Asphalt Alley are now in the congressional district represented by the member from El Paso. To determine who is your member of the U.S. House, just wait until campaign season and see who will be hitting you up for a contribution.
While we’re on politics,
damaged by sun exposure and start growing uncontrollably. Thus, repeated severe sunburns or work that requires a lot of outdoor exposure creates more chances for your skin to be damaged.
Diagnosis
Skin cancer, including melanoma, is almost always curable when diagnosed in its early stages. Thus, it is important to detect melanoma quickly. The most commonly used way of screening suspicious moles for melanoma is the ABCDE method.
• Asymmetry: If the suspicious spot is not perfectly round
• Border: If the edges are irregular Color: If there is uneven color
Diameter: Is the spot larg-
we all know that Morbid Meadows is a thoroughly red neighborhood, but those “Trump For Sainthood” signs disturb our lone Democrat who, for his own safety, is under the Federal Voter Protection Program. Likewise, those bumper stickers: “Greg Abbott – Gov. For Life,” while accurate, are not as efficient as a 100 Club sticker for getting you out of a speeding ticket. There have been some questions about the number of black SUVs unloading several large men dressed like Darth Vader, masked and toting various weapons, gas bombs and nets. We are told they are school crossing guards, although their appearance was followed by a quick exodus of our lawn-mowers, maids, baby sitters and seniors-helpers. This might explain the 2-foot-tall grass in our yards teeming with snakes, rats, and raccoons. But our kids will certainly be safe walking to school – just don’t let them near the playground (see above).
You may have noticed all the utility trucks, cherrypickers, and men stringing cables. That’s because Morbid Meadows has a new company: Occasional Cable. The workers promise that our comput-
er than a quarter inch
Evolving: Does the mole change over time
It can be difficult to determine if a spot is melanoma or a harmless mole. Thus, dermatologists advise checking your skin monthly and seeking a clinical skin check if you have a spot you are worried about, using the ABCDE method. If your doctor is concerned about the spot, they may take a sample of the tissue. Often, the sample collection, called a biopsy, removes the entire melanoma, especially if performed early, serving as both test and treatment. However, some spots may require more treatments.
Prevention
Because sun exposure is the easiest factor to control, melanoma prevention focuses
ers, TVs, and land-line phones “will work all of the time, except when they don’t.” Some malcontents complain they can only get Fox News. We know who you are.
Now for News of Our Neighbors! We welcome the McDrudge family who say they are from Baytown although their accent seems to be Venezuelan. They parked a boat in their driveway which, oddly enough, is riddled with bullet holes. Mr. McDrudge explained their sons are “inaccurate duck hunters.”
Congratulations to Conway Callus on his new Lamborghini Temerario. Conway says he bought it with the 250k he got from the state for setting up his new charter school, an arc welding shop in his garage, and will start the school as soon as he gets an arc welder and figures out how to use it. Conway says he won’t be giving us rides but we can touch the car since we paid for it. And Sean “Knuckles” Fearsome says his ankle bracelet is simply a fashion accessory to remind him to check in with his probation officer.
Finally, get ready for our fantastic “Happy Birthday, America” gala! Yes, our neighborhood will be celebrating the bisesquicenten-
on avoiding sun damage. You should limit sun exposure, apply sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30, use sun-protective clothing, and avoid UV-light tanning. This would help avoid damaging UV-light from hurting your skin, preventing damage that may contribute to cancer. Most people think of sun exposure during sunburns and on summer beach days, but daily chronic exposure is just as harmful. Cancers arise from the accumulation of damage, so low-level daily exposure can also cause cancer. This is especially true in sunnier regions such as the Houston metropolitan area. Even if our Houston weather only chills to a freezing 62° F, we should remain vigilant of excessive sun exposure.
nial or semiquincentennial or the 250th anniversary of the Pilgrim’s landing at Plymouth Rock or maybe it’s the opening of the Astrodome or possibly Joe Biden’s birthday – we’re researching that. Anyway, your board is ready with a parade of wheel chairs, walker races, crowning Miss Morbid Meadows (unlike last Fourth of July, she cannot be over 230 pounds, not more than seven months pregnant, and no visible obscene tattoos) and all the leftover FEMA rations you can eat. That night there will be fireworks -- warning to Rudolph – and we shall dance to tunes of a DJ who will play “The Best of ISIS Folk Songs.” Your MMHOA wishes you a relatively safe 2025 – just keep your kids away from the playground.
Ashby is neighborly as ashby@comcast.net
Editor’s note: This column and its contents do not necessarily reflect the views of The Leader News, its staff, or its publisher. The Leader News welcomes opinion articles on matters of interest to Greater Heights residents at editor@theleadernews. com. Publication is at the discretion of the editor.
Melanoma can be a scary diagnosis, but if found early, it can be treated. Even if found late, many treatments can be performed, with more currently under development. What matters most is taking steps to reduce harmful sun exposure and performing regular checks on your body to catch any suspicious spots early.
Editor's note: Kevin Hoffman, B.S., Ruhi Thapar, B.S., Lance He, B.S., and Maya Sela, B.S., are students at the Baylor College of Medicine in the Texas Medical Center. Dr. Arindam Sarkar served as the senior author for this article. This column is for informational purposes only. Always consult a physician for medical advice.
National Blood Donor Month highlights lifesaving impact
By JUHI VARMA
The Leader News Contributor
January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to honor the lifesaving impact of blood donors and inspire more people to roll up their sleeves.
“National Blood Donor Month is a reminder of how generous our community truly is,” said Theresa Pina, vice president of operations at Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. “Every donation makes a powerful difference for patients facing emergencies, surgeries, and serious illnesses, and that impact reaches far beyond one person. Our donors are everyday heroes, and we're deeply grateful for the way they show up, give back, and help save lives in our community every day.”
The American Red Cross is offering an added incentive for donors this month. Those who donate blood at an American Red Cross facility by Jan. 25, 2026, will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Santa Clara, California, including Super Bowl tickets. The American Red Cross and NFL established this partnership seven years ago to encourage more donations during the winter, when blood supply dips due to seasonal illnesses and weatherrelated challenges. Details about the giveaway can be
Current students enrolled in graphic design and digital communications programs at the affected schools will be allowed to complete them, but incoming ninth graders starting in fall 2026 will no longer have access to those tracks.
Some programs aren’t being eliminated but are shifting locations. Automotive and networking courses at Heights and Waltrip will transition to Barbara Jordan for incoming students, though current high schoolers will finish at their home campuses. Quinn said centralizing these programs allows the district to invest in expensive equipment - like electric vehicle charging stations and plasma cutting machines - that individual schools can’t afford to maintain.
HISD first proposed phasing out several career programs in December, but delayed the vote until January after community outcry. The number of impacted schools has since increased from three to ten. More than two dozen people spoke against the proposed changes at the recent board meeting.
Parents raised concerns about the reliability of bus transportation in Houston traffic, the loss of programs their children love, and what they described as a lack of meaningful community input before decisions were made. Some worried their children would miss out on lunch periods, tutoring time, and extracurricular activities while shuttling between campuses.
District officials countered that 900 students from eight schools already travel to Barbara Jordan, and that the expansion will give students access to career programs they couldn’t access before.
“We know that too many of our graduates historically are not earning a living wage when they leave high school,” said Gillian Quinn, HISD’s executive director of Career and Technical Education in an HISD press release. “We believe that every HISD graduate deserves as many pathways to a life of financial choice as possible.”
The district based its decisions on research from Contigo Ed, an education nonprofit that identified career fields producing jobs with salaries above $45,000 annually. According to that analysis, graphic design, entrepreneurship, and cosmetology do not meet that threshold, prompting the phase-outs.
What Changes at The Leader-area Schools
Waltrip High School is HISD’s Research and Technology Magnet, currently offering three pathways: Digital Media, Graphic Design and Multimedia Arts, and Engineering. Under the approved plan, two of those
found at redcrossblood.org/ local-homepage/events/super_bowl.html.
The winner and guest will also get access to day-of instadium pregame activities, round-trip airfare, threenight hotel accommodation (Feb. 6-9, 2026), plus a $1,000 gift card for expenses.
“Health emergencies don’t pause for holidays or game day,” the American Red Cross said on its website.
“Donors are needed now: Step off the sidelines and roll up a sleeve to help patients in need.”
People are busy after the holidays, traveling or getting back to school or work routines, said Stephanie Jacksis, communications manager for GCRBC. But hospitals always need blood for emergencies, surgeries and cancer patients.
All blood types are needed
three pathways (Graphic Design/Multimedia Arts and Digital Communications) will be phased out, leaving Engineering as the sole oncampus pathway. Current students can finish their programs, but no new students will be admitted. Quinn tells The Leader that the Waltrip principal has indicated she may preserve some graphic design skills through electives. Heights High School is HISD’s Magnet School of Computer Technology. Within that magnet, the school currently offers three programs of study: graphic design, digital communications, and web programming. Under the approved changes, graphic design will be eliminated - it will not be available to incoming freshmen next year, though current students can finish through 2030. Digital communications and web programming will remain on campus. Separately, automotive and networking courses will shift to Barbara Jordan for incoming students who want those tracks. Like at Waltrip, graphic design classes may become electives.
Booker T. Washington High School is HISD’s High School for Engineering Professions Magnet Program. The school is included among the ten campuses that will have access to Barbara Jordan, but its engineering magnet faces no immediate changes. Students there will have the option to access Barbara Jordan programs, such as culinary, cybersecurity, or automotive if they choose. When the drone and robotics facility opens in 202728, Booker T. students could opt into that program as well. Quinn told the board that no student will be forced to travel to the career center. But that choice comes with trade-offs: if a Waltrip student wants to pursue automotive, for example, they would need to go to Barbara Jordan since the program will no longer be offered on campus. Students who prefer to stay at their home school can choose from CTE programs that remain there. Those who do opt into Barbara Jordan programs will attend classes there for two periods every other day, with district-provided transportation. Students cannot take individual classes at Barbara Jordan as electives; they must enroll in a full program of study.
“If a student chooses to attend class at Barbara Jordan Career Center, they would need to attend for two classes each year,” she said. “All classes at BJCC are structured and part of a coherent CTE program of study.”
The career clusters at Barbara Jordan include: Health (Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Health Informatics, Pharmacy); Trades (Automotive, Construction Management, Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Welding); plus Culinary,
year-round, but Type O is especially important because it can be used in emergencies, said Jacksis. Platelets are also in high demand since they are used for cancer and trauma patients and have a short shelf life.
“No matter your blood type, your donation can help save lives, right here in our community,” she said.
Gulf Coast Blood and other centers host mobile blood drives regularly across the Houston area — you can check upcoming drives and book slots (often updated daily) via their “Find a Location” tool at giveblood.
Teaching and Training, Cybersecurity, Networking, and Manufacturing. New programs, including Drone and Robotics, are set to be offered starting in the 2027-28 school year.
A State-of-the-Art Facility
The Barbara Jordan Career Center, located in northeast Houston, is undergoing a major expansion. During a tour of the facility, administrators showcased newly opened welding and automotive labs equipped with industry-standard equipment. Quinn noted that centralizing expensive equipment makes it financially feasible to give students hands-on experience they couldn’t access at individual campuses.
“Imagine a huge warehousetype room where you have your construction students building an entire smart house, your electrical students building the circuits in the walls, your HVAC students building the air conditioner,” HISD Chief Academic Officer Kristen Hole told board members. “That experience is fundamentally different than what every single high school can offer.”
Enrollment at the center is expected to grow from 906 students currently to nearly 4,000 by the 2028-29 school year. To manage capacity, students will rotate through in staggered shifts, with roughly 900 to 1,000 on campus at any given time.
Parents Voice Concerns
Despite the district’s assurances, parents at the board meeting raised pointed concerns about transportation logistics, community engagement, and the loss of established programs.
“The buses are an issue. No one has been able to answer our questions of who is going to be on these buses, who is going to monitor them, [and] how is it going to be possible that they’re going to make it on time in Houston traffic,” Heights parent Hilary Schultz told the board.
Shannon Knight, a Heights parent with a sophomore in the graphic design program, said the loss of on-campus programs would particularly harm students with learning accommodations who rely on consistent schedules and access to teachers during lunch for extra help. Her daughter has a 504 plan and spends most of her lunch breaks working on projects with her graphic design teacher. Although her daughter will be allowed to finish the program, Knight worries about students who will come after her.
“What happens to that kid who has to get on a bus to go to Barbara Jordan?” Knight said in an interview. She also questioned what the changes mean for teachers whose programs are being phased out.
people to roll up their sleeves.
org or commitforlife.org/donor/schedules/zip.
Community blood drives make donating easy and convenient by bringing donation opportunities closer to where people live, work, and worship. These drives help keep a steady blood supply during times when donations may drop. Just one donation can save up to three lives, and when a community comes together, the impact is significant.
Find out more here: giveblood.org/connect-with-us/ newsroom/national-blooddonor-month.
“What teacher wants to stay at Heights for the next two years when their whole subject is being sunsetted?”
Megan Rasmussen, a Waltrip parent, told The Leader her incoming son was interested in automotive but will instead choose engineering to avoid the transportation uncertainty. “Even if the BJCC facility is amazing and has the best teachers, I don’t want him on a bus for huge portions of the day,” she said. “I have experience with late and missing buses needed to get to athletic events, so that’s one of the reasons I’m wary about trusting this new transportation plan.”
Evie Schoene, also a Waltrip parent, said in an interview that the state-of-the-art facilities at Barbara Jordan might make sense for programs like automotive. But she, too, said transportation remains her main concern. “I don’t think the time schedule will work as advertised, as Houston traffic is both continually congested and unpredictable,” she said. “I need to see a more concrete transportation plan before I can buy in.”
Kim Hoyle, another Heights parent, criticized the engagement process. “Engagement starts before decisions are made, informing communities early and bringing together a representative group of parents and teachers to discuss options,” she said at the board meeting. “This is what this administration keeps trying to skip.”
Quinn said the district held ten community meetings over the past month and surveyed eighth-grade families, who she said prioritized high-wage career pathways for their students. She says the district has committed to maintaining students’ access to the same number of credits, ensuring on-time transportation, and protecting extracurricular activities like clubs, sports, and tutorials.
Eileen Hairel, a member of the District Advisory Committee that provides feedback to HISD’s administration, told the board that community members had made clear they wanted money spent on health, safety, and renovating existing schools - not on CTE centers. She said the Barbara Jordan project’s price tag has increased significantly since it was first proposed. “CTE centers right now, unfortunately, are wants,” she said. Despite parent objections, all nine members of the Board of Managers voted to approve the changes. The expansion of the Barbara Jordan Career Center is expected to continue, with ground-breaking on a new extension planned for this summer or fall.
How Best Friends is healing hearts by treating heartwormpositive dogs like Max
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Thousands of dogs enter animal shelters across the Houston region each year, many diagnosed with heartworm disease — a mosquito-borne illness that is preventable and treatable, yet potentially fatal if left untreated. Because heartworm treatment requires time, resources, and space, dogs who test positive are often at-risk when shelters face capacity challenges.
Best Friends Pet Lifesaving Center on Pinemont Dr. is working to change that reality.
Through its shelter medicine program, Best Friends partners with shelters throughout the greater Houston area to provide heartworm treatment for dogs who might otherwise not survive. By covering medical care and coordinating temporary foster placements and transport, Best Friends is helping shelters save lives while giving dogs a real path to lifesaving adoption.
“Heartworm-positive dogs are one of the most at-risk populations in shelters,” said Sarah Muirhead, Senior Manager of Lifesaving Programs, Best Friends Animal Society. “Through our shelter medicine program, we’ve been able to support the treatment of hundreds of heartworm-positive dogs — restoring their health and giving them a real chance to find loving homes.”
One of those dogs is Max, a sweet 2-year-old from Navasota Animal Shelter, a small municipal shelter near Houston. Max needs heartworm treatment and is currently seeking a temporary foster home where he can rest and recover for approximately six weeks. Best Friends covers all medical care, food, and supplies. Once his treatment is complete,
Max will travel north to a network partner, Brandywine Valley SPCA, where he will be available for adoption. Heartworm disease is not directly contagious to other pets and can only be transmitted through mosquito bites, making fostering or adopting heartworm-positive dogs safe for households with other animals.
“If you have the ability to help a heartworm-positive dog like Max through shortterm fostering, you can save a life and help take Houston no-kill,” Muirhead said. “We provide the medical care — all we need are compassionate foster homes in the Houston community to give these dogs a quiet place to heal before they’re adopted or transported to a receiving partner.”
To become a temporary foster, email houstonfoster@ bestfriends.org or text 832400-9024. To learn more about Best Friends Pet Lifesaving Center in Houston, visit bestfriends.org/houston.
Constable urges parents to step in
as
dangerous door-kick trend spreads
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Harris County Constable Precinct One Alan Rosen is warning that youth taking part in what looks like part of a national TikTok door-kick challenge in the Heights area are playing with fire.
“We have already had one child in Houston shot and killed after a door prank and we certainly don’t want anything like that to happen again,” Rosen said. “Parents, talk to your children. These kids need to stop and they need to understand that they are putting themselves at risk.”
In a video recently captured by a Heights homeowner’s surveillance camera, a group of about 10 youth can be seen walking by a home on Arlington Street, and two of them, with hoodies pulled tight around their faces, run up to the front door, kicking it hard enough that it opens, and then dash away.
The homeowner, who contacted deputies, said it was startling, aggravating and dangerous. He estimated the youths involved to range from 12 to 16 years old and said he does not know them.
A so-called TikTok doorkick challenge in which kids kick doors has been sweeping the country with police from Florida to California reporting incidents of teens aggressively kicking doors and running
away. It is an escalation over the old Ding Dong Ditch, which we have seen turn fatal. In Houston in late August, 11-year-old Julian Guzman was shot and killed by a homeowner after knocking on a door near Fidelity and Racine.
The homeowner, Gonzalo Leon Jr, is charged with murder and awaits trial.
The so-called Ding Dong Ditch game is similar to the TikTok challenge in that it involves rousting residents, but kicking in a door is clearly a tremendous escalation over knocking on a door.
“This is rude and illegal and also potentially deadly,” Rosen said. “It is all terribly unfortunate and 100 percent avoidable for all involved.”
The owner of the home on Arlington Street said he was sitting in the front room of his home when he got a Ring doorbell motion detection alert and seconds later his front door was kicked in. When he stepped out of the home to investigate, he saw a group running from the home. In addition to the danger it presents, door-kicking brings a potential charge of Criminal Mischief, which can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the evidence.
“Our greatest concern is that no one gets hurt,” Rosen said. “We don’t need any more tragedies.”
CTE, from P. 1
Submitted photo
January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to honor the lifesaving impact of blood donors and inspire more
Submitted photo Max, a sweet shelter dog, needs a foster for 6 weeks so he can receive healing
Big game spreads, crawfish Sundays, and Valentine’s specials
STAFF REPORTS
Submit entries to editor@theleadernews. com
From golden pistachiostudded cookies and proteinpacked bowls to over-the-top wing towers, rooftop crawfish boils and Valentine’s dinners for two, Houston’s dining scene is sprinting into 2026 at full speed. This week's “Coming to a Table Near You” roundup highlights limited-time menus, Super Bowl party platters, crawfish season favorites and romantic multi-course feasts, giving hungry Houstonians plenty of reasons to eat local, try something new, and plan their next night out.
Tiff’s Treats – Dubai Gold Filled Cookie
Tiff’s Treats is kicking off the year with Dubai Gold, a limited-time “Dubai Gold Filled Cookie” that builds on the runaway success of its viral Dubai Chocolate cookie. The new treat layers a sugar cookie base with white chips, toasted kataifi and rich pistachio cream, then finishes it with glittery chopped pistachios for a golden, over-thetop bite. Baked to order and delivered warm, Dubai Gold is only available through January.
The Savoy – Super Bowl Wing Tower & Super Platter
Third Ward favorite The Savoy is going big for the NFL playoffs and Super Bowl with its over-the-top 300-piece Wing Tower and a massive Savoy Super Platter. Located at 4402 Emancipation Ave., the bar and restaurant offers an electric game-day atmosphere with indoor and outdoor TVs, an expansive patio, cocktails and scratch-made fare. Fans can pre-order the Super Platter—300 wings with fries—for $450 for dinein or catering at www.thesavoyhtx.com.
bellagreen – “Golden Glow” Winter Menu
bellagreen American Bistro is leaning into Dry/ Damp January and resolution season with its limited-
time “Golden Glow” menu, available through February in Houston and Dallas. The lineup features anti-inflammatory, comfort-minded dishes built around turmeric, ginger, sweet potatoes, kale and wild rice, from Golden Glow Chicken Soup and veggie bowls to seared salmon and seasonal gluten-free desserts. It’s designed as a reset menu that feels good without feeling restrictive.
Teriyaki Madness – Double Protein & Winter Deals
Fast-casual chain Teriyaki Madness is starting 2026 with Double Protein bowls, letting guests stack up to a full pound of chicken, steak, salmon or tofu over rice and veggies. The brand is also running a slate of deals, including $2 off $10 curbside orders for Mad Rewards members every Monday from January through March, free delivery week Jan. 19–25 on online orders, $5 off $25 Feb. 5–8, and a Valentine’s offer of a free bowl with the purchase of another bowl and two drinks Feb. 14–20. All promos are available at participating locations via teriyakimadness.com.
Fish City Grill & Half Shells – Omega Bowls & Winter Specials
Fish City Grill & Half Shells is leaning into feel-good eating with new Omega Bowls, now part of the permanent menu and packed with more than 30 grams of protein and omega-3s. The restaurants are also spotlighting seasonal plates like seared scallop tacos with sweet potatoes and kale, seared black cod with coconut orzo and a crispy Chicken Milanese with arugula and marinated tomatoes. The goal is “food that makes you feel good” as diners reset for the new year.
Haii Keii – Experience Menu
Haii Keii is launching a new $60-per-person Experience Menu, a curated multi-course tasting designed to show off the restaurant’s fusion of Asian flavors, premium pro-
teins and polished presentation. The menu features favorites like short rib tacos, truffle hamachi and pork belly to start, followed by entrées such as Gulf red snapper with Thai coconut beurre blanc, Chilean sea bass with Saikyo glaze, filet and Wagyu NY strip, plus optional add-ons like the “Around the World” flight. Diners close with desserts like Ube Cheesecake or Twixx Bombe for a night-out experience without a skyhigh price tag.
Crawfish Cafe – VietCajun Crawfish Season
Crawfish Cafe is deep into crawfish season and boiling tens of thousands of pounds weekly, seasoned in bold Viet-Cajun flavors. Guests can build their own boils with house sauces like The Signature (garlic butter + Cajun), The Mix (garlic butter + lemon pepper), The Grail (garlic butter + Thai basil) and The Hook (garlic butter + coconut), with heat levels from mild to “reaper” and add-ons like shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, potatoes, mushrooms, eggs and more. Dine in or carry out seven days a week at locations in The Heights, Cypress, Pearland, Shenandoah/The Woodlands and the soon-toopen Chinatown dual concept.
Valentine’s & SpecialOccasion Dining
–
Houston
Spots
Caracol – Coastal Mexican Valentine’s Menus Seafood lovers can celebrate at Caracol with special Valentine’s Couple’s Menus Feb. 11–13 ($125 per couple) and a four-course set menu on Feb. 14 ($87 per person), each with optional beverage pairings. The menus feature dishes like pan-fried potato tacos, lamb shank, coastal fish preparations and a dramatic “Coco Enamorado” dessert, alongside an awardwinning wine list and full bar. Reservations are required at the Post Oak Boulevard restaurant.
Etoile Cuisine et Bar – French Romance in Uptown
At Uptown Park, Etoile Cuisine et Bar is offering a three-course Valentine’s menu from Feb. 10–15 for $95 per person, with the special menu as the only option on Feb. 14. Choices include
STAFF REPORTS
Please email entries to editor@theleadernews.com.
JANUARY 24
District H Town Hall
Series
What: Council Member Mario Castillo launches his annual start-of-the-year Town Hall series, giving residents a chance to ask questions, hear updates, and connect with City departments and community partners about neighborhood issues.
When: Saturday, Jan. 24, 10–11:30 a.m.
Where: Northline/Clark
Community Center
Cost: Free
Info: RSVPs encouraged at wkf. ms/4pEn9YE
Arbor Day Celebration at the Houston Arboretum
What: The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s annual Arbor Day Celebration features lumberjack games, fairy house building, a self-guided forest hike, crafts (while supplies last), and a chance to meet “Johnny Appleseed” while learning about the importance of trees. Held rain or shine.
When: Saturday, Jan. 24, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, 120 West Loop North, 77024
Cost: Free admission; free parking during the event Info: houstonarboretum.org/ event/arbor-day-celebration
lobster bisque, foie gras, diver scallops, truffle pasta and whimsical desserts like a raspberry-and-vanilla “swan” vacherin and warm brioche bread pudding. The full à la carte menu is available most nights, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Hugo’s – Mexican Valentine’s Feasts in Montrose Hugo’s in Montrose will serve a special four-course Couple’s Menu Feb. 11–13 ($125 per couple) and a set four-course Valentine’s menu on Feb. 14 ($87 per person), with optional drink pairings. Menus highlight Hugo Ortega’s regional Mexican cooking, including tacos dorados, campechana, mariscos, lamb shank, scallops, steaks and elaborate desserts like the “Pirámide del Amor.” Live music adds to the atmosphere on Valentine’s night.
Kenny & Ziggy’s –“Bring Your Bubbe and Zayde” Valentine’s
Kenny & Ziggy’s is putting a deli spin on Valentine’s with a $25-per-person threecourse special that’s perfect for sharing with grandparents or anyone who loves classic Jewish comfort food. Diners get a bowl of soup (think matzoh ball or kreplach), a nosher-size sandwich or salad plate, and a choice of desserts like cheesecake, torte or rugelach. The full, famously huge menu of sandwiches, smoked fish and comfort classics is also available.
Rainbow Lodge – Lodge-Style Valentine’s Dinner
Rainbow Lodge, the 117-year-old log cabin restaurant on Ella, will offer a three-course Valentine’s dinner from 5–10 p.m. on Feb. 14 for $125 per person, plus lunch service that day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The draft menu features house favorites like Taste of the Wild, smoked duck gumbo, seared scallops, Chilean sea bass, wild game mixed grill, steaks off the grill and decadent desserts including croissant bread pudding and lemon icebox tart. A full bar, award-winning wine list and rustic setting make it one of Houston’s more romantic dining rooms.
Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen – Parrillada for Two
Both locations of Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen will offer a Valentine’s Parrillada Special for Two Feb. 13–15. The platter includes a halfpound of chicken and beef
Garage Sale at the Houston Toy Museum
What: The museum’s bi-annual sale returns with a wide variety of toys, collectibles, and pop culture memorabilia from its ever-growing collection.
Hear the Future: Houston Chamber Choir Choral Invitational Festival
What: The Grammy® Awardwinning Houston Chamber Choir presents its 26th annual Hear the Future Invitational Choral Festival, showcasing two middle school choirs, one high school choir, and the Houston Chamber Choir in a free community concert. The day also includes free Master Classes led by choral professionals, including Dr. Anthony Maglione of the University of Houston.
When: Saturday, Jan. 24
• Master Classes: 9–10:30 a.m. & 12:40–2:10 p.m.
• Community Concert: 5:30 p.m.
Where: Grace Presbyterian Church, 10221 Ella Lee Lane, 77042
What: Color Factory invites guests to “New Year, New Hue,” an immersive evening featuring vibrant color installations and complimentary aura photogra-
fajitas, two grilled quail, four jumbo shrimp and all the Tex-Mex fixings, plus a chocolate tres leches to share for $56.95, available for lunch or dinner, dine-in or to-go. Complimentary red roses for the ladies add an extra romantic touch.
URBE – Valentine’s Menu & Galentine’s Buffet
URBE in Uptown Park is rolling out a three-course Valentine’s Menu for Two on Feb. 11, 12 and 14 for $95 per couple, with options like pozole, ceviche, slowcooked pork, spicy shrimp, skirt steak and heart-shaped churros, plus optional cocktail pairings. On Feb. 13, the restaurant hosts a Galentine’s buffet for $42 per person featuring carving stations, tacos, enchiladas, pozole, elote and more, with a live DJ, karaoke and festive drink specials. Reservations are encouraged for both.
Xochi – OaxacaInspired Valentine’s Downtown’s Xochi will offer a four-course Couple’s Menu Feb. 11–13 ($125 per couple) and a set menu on Feb. 14 ($87 per person), each with optional beverage pairings. Highlights include plantain turnovers, woodroasted oysters, corn soup, striped bass with mole amarillo, duck in mole poblano, shrimp with creamy corn rice and intricate desserts like a white chocolate cacao pod filled with fruit and chocolate. Live music is planned for Valentine’s night.
Zaranda – Las Californias Valentine’s
Debut New downtown restaurant Zaranda, showcasing “Las Californias” cuisine from Chef Hugo Ortega, is marking its first Valentine’s with a Couple’s Menu Feb. 11–13 for $125 per pair and a four-course set menu on Feb. 14 for $87 per person. Guests can expect dishes like olive bread with herb butter, roasted oysters, creamy artichoke soup, duck tacos, prime picanha, grilled shrimp in adobo, braised lamb shank, vegetable rice and detailed desserts like a “sea urchin” of white chocolate and citrus. The bar offers extensive cocktails and wine, and patio seating is available.
Winsome Prime – Galentine’s & Valentine’s Weekend
Winsome Prime is turning Valentine’s into a full weekend celebration with a Galentine’s
phy sessions with a live Aura Reader. Discover the hue that defines your 2026 energy inside the Mixed Feelings Aura installation. Aura photo sessions require advance sign-up.
When: Sunday, Jan. 25, 4–6 p.m.
Where: Color Factory Houston, 3303 Kirby Dr., 77098
Cost: Regular admission; aura photography included with event ticket (limited availability) Info: colorfactory.co
FEBRUARY 7
First Saturday Grow Love Market at Hope Farms
What: A lively day of cooking classes, gardening workshops, yoga, children’s activities, and fresh farm produce. Enjoy handson learning led by top Houston chefs and educators.
What: The Great Benjamins Circus makes its Houston debut with a 90-minute Big Top spectacular featuring clowns, acrobats, aerialists, daredevils, motorbike performers, and extreme riders. A traditional circus with modern thrills, presented by a third-generation circus family. When: Feb. 12–15 (multiple showtimes)
Where: West Oaks Mall, under
Night on Feb. 13, a special $95 three-course Valentine’s dinner on Feb. 14 and brunch parties on Feb. 14–15. Expect touches like complimentary champagne with specialty menus, roses, live percussion, a late-night DJ and a menu of indulgent dishes such as crab beignets, Parmesan-crusted filet, pan-seared halibut, double-cut lamb chops and chocolate-covered strawberries. Champagne bottle promotions run all weekend, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Reset Rooftop Lounge – Crawfish Sundays in Midtown
Reset Rooftop Lounge in Midtown is now hosting Crawfish Sundays from 3 p.m. to midnight, pairing rooftop boils with skyline views, a live DJ and drink specials. Guests can order 2 pounds of crawfish for $25 or 3 pounds for $35, both served with sausage, corn and potatoes, or go bigger with the K2G Platter featuring crawfish, snow crab and shrimp for $45. Reservations are encouraged; follow @resethtx for weekly entertainment updates.
Feges BBQ – Super Bowl Wing & Queso Packages
Spring Branch favorite Feges BBQ is offering Super Bowl-ready takeout, including a game-day special of 50 smoked-then-fried wings for $50, with up to four house sauces like Alabama white, red hot, PB&J, sweet Thai and curry lime. Smoked brisket queso joins the lineup, alongside party packs, brisket tamales, racks of ribs and platters that feed 4–10. Preorders for pickup at the Long Point location are encouraged for Feb. 6–8, with the restaurant open until 5 p.m. on Super Bowl Sunday.
Nothing Bundt Cakes has been named America’s No. 1 Food Brand for the second year in a row, based on national consumer feedback about food quality, hospitality, ambiance and value. To celebrate, the brand is running a VIP sweepstakes for a behind-the-scenes Bundt Lab experience in Dallas and offering a Buy One Bundtlet, Get One Free deal Feb. 16–22 with promo code BOGOFEB26 at participating bakeries. Fans can find their nearest shop or order online at nothingbundtcakes.com.
What: A sweet-filled evening of chocolate indulgence and community fun, featuring games and activities for all ages.
When: Friday, Feb. 14, 7–10 p.m.
Where: St. Rose of Lima, 3600
Brinkman St., 77018
Cost: $15 presale; $20 at the door Info: stroselima.org/scheduleand-events
Tapas on the Trails
What: A romantic, twilight walk along softly lit Arboretum trails, featuring six tapas courses paired with craft beers and curated wines. Ages 21+ only; proceeds support conservation and education programs.
Where: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, 4501 Woodway Dr. Cost: $110–$125; VIP upgrade +$40 Info: houstonarboretum.org/ event/tapas-on-the-trails
HGO Family Day: Hansel and Gretel
What: A 90-minute, Englishlanguage Family Day performance of Hansel and Gretel in a relaxed, kid-friendly environment with crafts, photo ops, and character interactions.
When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m.
Where: Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. Cost: $25–$157.50 Info: HGO.org/FamilyDay or 713228-6737
Art Valet: Timber Tales & Time Machines: Archway turns 50 with wood wonders
Exciting news to start the new year: Archway Gallery turns 50 in 2026! They announced this incredible milestone on Facebook, and I’ll share more details below. Meanwhile, they have an artist reception coming up. Archway Gallery, 2305 Dunlavy, Houston, TX 77006, presents “Just Wood— Mostly,” featuring whimsical, inventive and utilitarian works in wood, mostly, by artist Robert L. Straight and guest artist Tom Wells. The exhibition runs Feb. 7 to March 5, 2026.
The opening reception is Saturday, Feb. 7, 5-8 p.m., with opportunities to meet the artists and attend their talks starting at 6:30 p.m. An added plus: complimentary valet parking and light refreshments will be served.
Robert L. Straight takes his playful creativity to new heights in this show.
“I’ve let my creative juices flow in all directions,” he said. Highlights include a to-scale midget race car crafted entirely from wood and an array of unique clocks that transform timekeeping into art. “I’ve also turned into a time machine,” Straight quipped, noting the joy of crafting each distinct piece.
Other works feature sculptural body parts designed to hang on walls, along with various other surprises blending humor, craftsmanship and function.
Joining Straight is Houston furniture-maker Tom Wells, known for his refined cabinetry and custom designs. With a background as a chemical engineer, Wells brings precision and artistry to his pieces, creating distinctive furniture that balances utility and aesthetic appeal.
Mitch cohen Art Columnist artvalet@gmail.com
Native Houstonian Robert L. Straight has devoted much of his life to art-making. He holds a master of fine arts degree from Houston Christian University (formerly Houston Baptist University) and has participated in numerous workshops at various art schools. Before committing to art full time, he spent a decade in the business world. Straight has been an artist-member at Archway Gallery since 2019. Tom Wells, after retiring from chemical engineering, converted his garage into a woodworking shop. He began crafting furniture for his home, then expanded to commissions. Since 2007, he has produced more than 150 pieces, starting with friends and growing through referrals. Wells continues to explore new ideas and techniques, merging his engineering mindset with an artistic sensibility. This exhibition celebrates wood’s versatility, from Straight’s exuberant, unexpected creations to Wells’ elegant functional designs. In Houston’s thriving art scene, shows like this highlight how local makers transform everyday materials into objects that delight and serve, inviting viewers to appreciate craftsmanship in a fresh light. This exhibition arrives as Archway Gallery marks its 50th anniversary in 2026. Founded on April 1, 1976, by a group of 11 artists who sought
to control the sale and presentation of their own work. The name Archway was inspired by the arches at their first location at the C.G. Jung Center at 5200 Montrose. The members bought shares in the business and my favorite part, members had to buy a track lighting too! Archway Gallery strikes a chord with me because I’ve always leaned toward doing things a little differently and independently. Archway has been an inspiration and filled a hole for many artists for 50 years, a true milestone, con-
COMMUNITY REPORTS
HCPH Highlights Safety Tips and Emergency Planning
During Winter Weather Safety Month
Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is observing Winter Weather Safety Month in January. HCPH is reminding community members that winter weather, although less frequent in Southeast Texas, can still pose significant health and safety risks, especially as climate patterns continue to shift. HCPH encourages all community members to use Winter Weather Safety Month as an opportunity to review emergency plans, build or update supply kits, and stay informed. Preparedness today can help protect health and save lives tomorrow.
Shifts in climate have led to more unpredictable weather, including stronger cold fronts, sudden freezes, icy road conditions, and power disruptions. These events can strain infrastructure, impact air and water quality, and increase risks for injury, illness, and carbon monoxide exposure.
Preparing ahead of time can help reduce harm and keep community members safe during extreme winter conditions.
“Even in a region known for warm weather, winter storms can create dangerous situations when people are not prepared,” said Alison Hare, Director of HCPH’s Public Health Preparedness & Response Division (PHPRD).
“Planning ahead is one of the most effective ways to protect health, homes, and families.”
Winter Weather Safety Tips
HCPH encourages community members to take the following steps during Winter Weather Safety Month:
• Monitor local weather forecasts and emergency alerts Build or update an emer-
gratulations! Read more about the gallery’s history on the website under Our Story. Archway Gallery is located at 2305 Dunlavy. Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and Sunday, 1–5 p.m., it features affordable sculpture, pottery, painting, and photography by 30+ artist members. For more, visit ArchwayGallery.com or call (713) 522-2409.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit ArtValet.com for more.
gency supply kit with water, food, medications, flashlights, and batteries
• Protect pets, plants, and exposed pipes during cold weather
• Be aware of possible coldweather injuries,
Bubble Clock by Robert L. Straight. Laminated Baltic birch plywood, 14 x 12 x 8 inches. Whimsical layered timepiece.
Horn Clock by Robert L. Straight. Laminated Baltic birch plywood, 6 x 6 x 7 inches. Playful horn-shaped wood clock.
Wine Cabinet by Tom Wells. Birdseye zebra wood and cherry. Stylish, bold-patterned storage piece.
Jewelry Cabinet by Tom Wells. Zebra wood and cherry. Elegant custom storage with rich grain contrast.
Submitted photos Penland Chair by Robert L. Straight. Solid walnut, 29 x 18 x 18 inches. Sculptural seating with clean lines.
