Inside Today: Memorial Park Conservancy reveals additional details for Memorial Groves Page 3 PLUMBING, LLC ~Family Owned and Operated~ • Residential/ Commercial • Water Heater • Leak Detection • Licensed, Bonded & Insured • No Hidden Fees
Covering the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest & the neighborhoods of North Houston
“Your Neighborhood Plumber”
832-219-7599
Saturday, December 27, 2025 • Vol. 70 • No. 52
ABOUT US 713-371-3600 news@theleadernews.com www.theleadernews.com Facebook/FromTheLeader
Leader’s Choice BEST ATTORNEY
2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 5005 W. 34th Street, Suite 104A Legal Services For Wills, Probate Estate Planning & Real Estate
PHYLLIS A. OESER Attorney At LAw 713-692-0300
INSIDE.
Six-year District C tenure shapes Kamin’s County Attorney bid position earlier this year after announcing his campaign for the vacant seat in Texas’ 18th Congressional District, though he continues to serve in an acting capacity, according to Houston Public Media. Harris County commissioners have yet to appoint an interim replacement, with discussions taking place only during closed executive sessions. In response to questions from The Leader, Kamin said federal and state political battles motivated her decision to seek the county post.
By BETSY DENSON The Leader News Contributor Houston City Council Member Abbie Kamin, who has represented District C – including the Greater Heights, Lazybrook/ Timbergrove, Greater Inwood, and Washington Avenue Coalition/Memorial Park – since 2019, filed to run for Harris County Attorney on Dec. 5, seeking to succeed Christian Menefee. Menefee resigned from the
“Going through the constant attacks from Donald Trump, Greg Abbott, Ken Paxton – coming after our families, our neighbors, our local government – I honestly just couldn’t take it anymore,” Kamin said. “When the County Attorney’s position came open I started considering whether I could dive into the fight in a bigger way.” In her official announcement on social media, Kamin framed the race in stark terms: “Together, we can build a county that is strong
enough to stop Trump, Democratic enough to restore our faith in local government, safe enough to live in without fear, and affordable enough to live comfortably and build a bright future for the next generation.” Kamin’s entry into the race triggers Texas’ resign-to-run law, requiring her to vacate her city council seat. She will continue serving in an acting capacity until a special election determines her successor, See KAMIN P. 2
BYE TECH!
City of Houston District C Councilmember Abbie Kamin
File photo
GHP: Region to see slowing economic growth in 2026 By KEN FOUNTAIN kfountain@fortbendstar.com
In an era when most schools race to adopt the newest device or platform, Magnolia made a surprising choice. “We wanted a wholeperson, human education,” Omanga said. “We wanted
Despite headwinds such as a cooling labor market, geopolitical uncertainty and a new uptick in inflation, the Houston region’s economy is positioned to expand next year, albeit at a slower pace since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Greater Houston Partnership’s chief economist told a group of business and political leaders. The partnership projects the region to add 30,900 jobs in 2026, although some sectors will see a loss in jobs, with a record 3.52 million jobs by the end of the year, said Colin Baker, GHP’s manager of economic research. The projection for 2025 had been 71,500 new jobs. Baker was the featured speaker at the partnership’s annual “Houston Region Economic Outlook” event, held December 11 in a filled-to-capacity ballroom at the Royal Sonesta hotel in the Uptown area. The partnership serves as the region’s main chamber of commerce. It was Baker’s first time on the annual event’s stage since the retirement last year of Patrick Jankowski, who had held the role for four decades. Houston is comparing well in terms of economic growth with most of the other Top 20 metropolitan regions in the country, Baker said. One of the major drivers of that growth is the growing population into the region, he said. The region has added 1.3 million residents in the last decade, representing an increase of 20 percent, he said. Houston is the second-fastest growing metropolitan area in the country behind Orlando, Fla., which has a much smaller population, Baker said. He noted that most people moving to Florida are mostly doing so to retire, whereas people moving to the Houston area are moving here for work. Houston’s economic activity, as measured by what is called the Purchasing Managers Index, saw a slowdown in early 2025 in line with the national picture, but began to pick up again at about the midpoint of the year, Baker said. Announcements of business expansions in the region, particularly among bioengineering and other types of advanced manufacturing, bode well in the years to come, he said.
See TECH P. 2
See FORECAST P. 2
Houston Public Library launches Lifesaver Literacy Kits
Page 4
Real Estate: HAR local data by zip code for November
Page 5
Meow Wolf Houston rings in 2026 with a New Year’s Eve celebration led by local DJs
Page 6
Pet of the Week: Meet adoptable Echo
Page 6
Photo courtesy of Magnolia School
Magnolia School is a K-8, no-tech private girls’ school, located at 9920 Long Point Road, founded by Annamarie Omanga.
Magnolia School doubles down on human-centered learning as enrollment soars ing environment and their children had previously attended a similarly low-tech school. “My husband and I were looking for an environment in which the girls could flourish not only academically, but spiritually and we just felt like Magnolia had that,” she said.
By JUHI VARMA The Leader News Contributor When Magnolia School opened its doors in 2019, its vision was bold in its simplicity: create a place where every girl “is taught her intrinsic value, is guided to grow in virtue, is challenged to think and reflect.” The K-8, no-tech private girls’ school, located at 9920 Long Point Road, was founded by Annamarie Omanga. Magnolia School grew out of years of conversations among Houston-area families, many of whom had helped found Western Academy and said they wanted a similar educational model for their daughters, Omanga said.
Photo courtesy of Magnolia School
Magnolia is an exceptionally happy and peaceful place that’s been intentionally founded and cultivated as a place where girls can thrive, with freedom permeating everything we do,” said Annamarie Omanga.
“We’ve always been a school of and for families, not just individual students,” she said. Six years later, Magnolia now fills an entire block, has tripled its enrollment and
has a waitlist. Shepherd Park Plaza resident Michelle Bruce chose Magnolia for her two daughters, in seventh and fourth grades, because they were looking for a low-tech learn-
A no-tech campus rooted in human connection
Oak Forest family behind Coco’s Donuts expands business portfolio with new laundromat, Del-Mar Arcade plans Houston Parks Board partners with Redbud Arts Center on art sculptures at Wiess Park
Page 8
THE INDEX. Topics �����������������������������������������������������4 Classifieds ��������������������������������������������7
By BETSY DENSON The Leader News Contributor A family of local entrepreneurs continues to add to Houston’s entertainment and service landscape one vintage building at a time. The Torres family – owners of Coco’s Donuts, Del-Mar Lanes bowling alley, and Soap Suds Laundry on N. Main – is expanding their communityfocused business model with a new River Oaks laundromat that
just opened, an arcade addition to Del-Mar, and a plan for the former Tradewinds Roller Rink. First up - the second Soap Suds Laundry on 1805 W Gray St. “We’re bringing the same culture to the new location,” said Ruby Torres, who helps run the family’s growing portfolio of businesses alongside her family and parents, Robert and Sylvia Torres. “We’re going to have an espresso machine, live music occasionally, and other events to make it a
communal social space.” The location maintains the family’s signature retro aesthetic of the flagship location – what Torres describes as a “1950s Coca-Cola vibe,” while offering a fresh, modern look. A grand opening is planned for January 4, 2026. Unlike many laundromats owned by large corporations, Soap Suds remains independent See SUDS P. 2
Warmest Holiday Wishes to all the readers of The Leader!
Submitted photo
The fresh, modern layout at the new Soap Suds Laundry includes a customer counter and seating area, reflecting the brand’s signature communityfocused design.
Page 2 • Saturday, December 27, 2025 • The Leader
FORECAST,
from P. 1 “Unfortunately, our economy does not exist in a vacuum,” Baker said. Among the trends he noted that might hinder the regional economy next year are a slowdown in the national labor market; and a decline in the price of oil that will have downward effects on the petrochemical and related industries. For next year’s outlook, Baker noted that the GHP uses to make projections differs from other models, and that it is based on economic data only going through August, before the recent government shutdown during which many data sets were not released. The partnership projects modest national job growth, with a steady U.S. employment rate of near 4.4 percent with “sluggish hiring not resulting in broad layoffs.” Economic growth will remain stable, but with easing growth in Texas and nearby states in the second half of 2026. Consumer spending will see steady growth in the year, even as inflation year-
TECH, from P. 1 our students to interact deeply with each other and with adults, without a screen interfering…Magnolia is an exceptionally happy and peaceful place where girls can thrive, with freedom permeating everything we do.” A common misconception, she said, is that students who grow up without heavy tech won’t be ready for high school. But Magnolia alumnae who’ve moved on to tech-driven campuses say they adapt easily. “Our students are all growing up in a world completely saturated with technology— there’s no doubt that they know how to use it,” Omanga said. “Magnolia helps them preserve their capacity for human connection and authentic creativity during some of their most formative years. This is corroborated by Bruce, who said that children adapt to technology easily. Bruce said she and her husband were grateful their daughters did not attend a school that relied heavily on phones and apps, where students were directed to use their iPhones for homework or watch videos in class. “Our daughters do not have to be in a situation where they’re on text strings with hundreds of kids at a time, or situations where, literally, the teachers were telling them to look at a video while the teacher was sitting there,” she said.
Learning through ‘Productive Struggle’
A hallmark of Magnolia’s approach is “productive struggle”—a teaching method that invites students to wrestle with new ideas before teachers step in. Rather than passively receiving information, students first encounter a question or challenge and attempt to solve it on their own or in collaboration with peers. Teachers act as facilitators, stepping in only when needed to guide, not rescue. The process, the school says, allows students to discover answers, build confidence, and learn to persevere—all essential skills
over-year will be near 3 percent, according to the partnership. U.S. oil production will see a moderate decline in 2026, based on falling crude oil prices, while natural gas production remains steady. Most sectors will see job growth in 2026, led by heath care, construction, public education, public administration, and professional,
scientific and technical services, according to the forecast. Sectors that will see job losses include information, retail, oil and gas extraction, manufacturing and administrative support. Find the full “Houston Region Economic Outlook” publication online at houston.org/publications.
Photo by Ken Fountain
Colin Baker, chief economist for the Greater Houston Partnership, tells attendees of a recent economic outlook event that the region will add 30,900 jobs in 2026.
for high school and life. “Productive struggle allows students to recognize that they can persevere through challenges and gives them the confidence to discover the answers to things they are curious about,” Omanga said.
Families are flocking to Magnolia
Since 2019, Magnolia has tripled its enrollment, a growth the school attributes to its emphasis on what many families feel is missing in modern education. “Magnolia is rooted in reality and excellence—real books, pencils and paper, gardens, math facts, poems, and time with teachers and peers who truly care about each other,” the school says. “We’re capturing education and childhood as they ought to be.” Parents consistently tell the school that their daughters seem calmer, more grounded, more confident. According to Magnolia, that change is no mystery. “Our students are seen and heard,” the school says. “We pause often, we have real conversations, and we create an environment that fosters an interior sense of calm. Confidence comes from knowing you are loved and valued for who you are.”
Latin, cursive and classic literature
Magnolia’s coat of arms features the Latin words for truth, beauty, and freedom, the curriculum reflects those values. Latin gives students a foundation for future language learning and strengthens their understanding of English grammar and vocabulary. Cursive writing is seen as an act of beauty and intentionality—an antidote to the disposable nature of digital text. The girls read and listen to classic literature together, not on screens but side by side. Through shared stories, they explore timeless questions: What does it mean to grow up? What is a hero and a hero’s journey? Why does dignity matter? Rather than learning from
slideshows or videos, students discuss, question, and connect—forming a community of thinkers. “From my perspective the no-technology atmosphere is definitely a major bonus to my girls’ education and a factor to Magnolia’s appeal,” Bruce said. “The school and community also offer so much more that make it a wonderful opportunity for girls to get a valuable education. I feel like I am investing in my daughters’ futures and giving them a gift to build a solid foundation on.”
Why girls become calmer and more confident
Receive a FREE trial lesson at Goldfish Swim School Houston Heights + a FREE Deluxe Day Pass at UrbanAir!
Great Variety of Music! Weddings, Private Parties, etc.
281-448-7845 KILEFM.Com
Experience and Knowledge... A Powerful Combination
™
Check out our Holiday Packages!
Flyers are required to receive 1 free deluxe day pass. Expires 12/31/25.
DEBBIE ourrealtordebbie@aol.com EllIott
2737 Minimax, Houston, Texas 77008
Receive a FREE trial lesson at Goldfish Swim School – Houston Heights + a FREE Deluxe Day Pass at UrbanAir!
Flyers are required to receive 1 free deluxe day pass. Expires 12/31/2025.
Urban Air
Goldfish Swim School
2737 Minimax Houston, Texas 77008
DONATIONS
A division of
TX STREET MEDIA
PUBLISHER & OWNER BRIAN CALLE
EDITORIAL
SALES/MARKETING
DESIGN
STEFANIE THOMAS Managing Editor editor@theleadernews.com
ANQUNETTE WILLIAMS Sales Manager awilliams@txstreetmedia.com
LAURA WHITE Production Manager/Senior Designer lwhite@txstreetmedia.com
THE HEIGHTS LEADER WELCOMES OPINION ARTICLES ON MATTERS OF INTEREST TO LOCAL RESIDENTS. PUBLICATION IS AT THE DISCRETION OF THE EDITOR. MAIL: 2400 CENTRAL PKWY STE I HOUSTON, TX 77092-7712 PHONE: 713.371.3600
WEBSITE: www.theleadernews.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/fromtheleader EMAILS: editor@theleadernews.com
More Than Just Laundry
The Torres family’s first Soap Suds location on 4211 N Main St. celebrated its 18th anniversary on December 1st. “People are always surprised when they walk in, and it feels more like a coffee shop vibe,” Torres said. The location offers complimentary coffee and donuts for customers on Sunday mornings. For a period, they featured live acoustic music every Sunday, with a guitarist performing for customers doing their laundry – a tradition that continues on special occasions. The space has also hosted wedding photo shoots, music videos, art galleries, and fashion photography sessions. “People like to use it just for the aesthetics,” Ruby noted. A Growing GOOF Footprint The laundromat is just one piece of the Torres family’s expanding Houston footprint. Robert Torres, a realtor with his own brokerage, specializes in purchasing properties and overseeing their renovation. The family handles construction management and interior
Bowling and Beyond
The family also owns Del Mar Lanes, 3020 Mangum Rd., Houston’s oldest bowling alley, which opened in 1958. Purchased in summer 2017 and extensively renovated, Del Mar is now planning a major expansion. In 2026, they’ll add a large arcade extension featuring pool tables, air hockey, basketball games, and more, creating a Dave & Buster’sstyle entertainment vibe. “We’ve already brought in a
bunch of new arcade games,” Torres said. In 2020, The Leader reported on the family’s acquisition of the former Tradewinds Skating Rink at 5006 W. 34th St. Plans are still in the works to give the property new life. “It’s a huge building. It’s gonna be a huge project,” Torres said. The structure still features its original wood tile floor, some in good condition, some requiring extensive restoration. While the timeline remains uncertain, the family’s current plan is still to restore it as a roller skating rink. “The closest one is probably Dairy Ashford, and that’s about 40 minutes out of town,” Ruby said. “It’s a little bit of a drive for Houstonians.”
A Team Effort
Managing multiple businesses requires constant attention. Torres described the family’s typical day as jumping from one location to another. Hitting one shop in the morning, another at lunch, and a third in the evening. Right now, though, most of their energy is focused on the newest Soap Suds location on West Grey, making sure it matches the welcoming, community-focused atmosphere that has become their trademark.
The new Soap Suds Laundry at 1805 W. Gray brings the Torres family’s independent, retro-style laundromat concept to River Oaks.
KAMIN, from P. 1 which could be scheduled as early as 30 days after the March primaries, according to the Houston Chronicle.
City Council tenure
During her six years representing District C, Kamin pointed to a range of initiatives she authored or championed, including creation of the Houston Women’s Commission, paid parental leave and prenatal wellness leave for city employees, the nation’s first firearm injury dashboard, and the creation of the Office of Policing Reform and Accountability. She also highlighted her work adding a domestic violence charge to the Mayor’s Office on Human Trafficking, securing millions of dollars in infrastructure and flood-mitigation investments, and working with the community to save the River Oaks Theater. Kamin said her staff of four handled over 2,400 calls and 58,000 emails in the first six months of last year alone, along with more than 1,200 constituent cases. She noted that District C “has one of the most engaged populations anywhere in the city” and said she hopes her successor can maintain the tradition of constituent services established by predecessors Ellen Cohen and Anne Clutterbuck. “I love District C and it has been an honor to represent these amazing Houstonians on City Council,” Kamin told The Leader.
Reberth Dialysis LLC IN HOME DIALYSIS SERVICES WE COME TO YOUR HOME
713-261-0441 210-832-9385
713-906-5481 Realty Associates
and family-operated. “These are truly family businesses,” Torres said.
design in-house, often completely gutting buildings and transforming them into new concepts. Their Coco’s Donuts & Coffee Bar, which opened in Oak Forest in July 2024, is evolving beyond its original concept. Along with regulars who come for the food and drink, it has become a hub for social events, including craft nights, silent book clubs, and salsa dancing on the second Monday of each month. The shop completed its drive-thru service, adding convenience for customers on the go. “It’s such a tight-knit little community,” Torres said of Oak Forest, where the family has lived for about 20 years. “We really love being in that little area.”
Submitted photo
On campus, the House System and cross-grade buddy program create a sense of belonging that spans ages. Older students mentor younger ones, and younger students look up to them. “Magnolia feels like a family,” Omanga said. “Everyone belongs to something bigger than themselves.” Parents consistently tell the school that their daughters seem calmer, more grounded, more confident. According to Magnolia, that change is no mystery. “Our students are seen and heard,” Omanga said. “We pause often, we have real conversations, and we create an environment that fosters an interior sense of calm. Confidence comes from knowing you are loved and valued for who you are.” What’s next for Magnolia Now occupying a full city block, the school is preparing for another phase of growth. In 2026, Magnolia will begin renovating two additional classrooms, allowing it to expand its double homeroom model into grades 4–7, and eventually 4–8. After that, a Chapel renovation is planned to support the growing student body. “We are thrilled to welcome more Monarchs and their families into our community,” the school says. more about Learn Magnolia School at magnoliaschool.org.
HOUSTON MOBILE DJ
SUDS, from P. 1
Policy priorities
As County Attorney, Kamin stated her focus would include child protective services cases, environmental enforcement, nuisance issues, and housing conditions. The County Attorney represents the state in all Department of Family and Protective Services matters, including Child Protective Services and Adult Protective Services cases. Kamin called it “one of the larger divisions within the office” that “does not get much attention.” “There are many egregious issues that must be addressed within the state system,” she said. “We can do something meaningful about this, working closely with judges, attorneys, and case workers to keep children safe, ensure parents are given a fair chance, and call out Abbott and Paxton for their utter failure to do so.” Kamin also pointed to her District C work taking on “bad-actor bars that create a public safety risk for residents and surrounding neighborhoods.” She said the County Attorney “should rightly be concerned about nuisance issues and bad-actor businesses that cause problems for county residents.” She wants to continue her District C work on environmental issues, which included opposing a concrete batch plant near a daycare facility and being the first City Council office to install publicly accessible air quality monitors. On housing, Kamin pointed to a recent apartment fire in District C at a complex with a history of problems, including unsafe living conditions. The County Attorney’s office handles nuisance litigation, consumer protection, and regulatory enforcement that touch on housing conditions. “My commitment is to continue and improve upon that work,” she said.
The field of candidates The filing deadline for the March primaries was December 8, setting the field of candidates. Kamin will face Judge Audrie Lawton-Evans in the March Democratic primary. Lawton-Evans presides over Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 1 and filed for the position on November 17, the Houston Chronicle reported. According to her campaign website, she is a native Houstonian who attended Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law and has 19 years of experience as a civil litigation attorney, including serving as an Assistant Attorney General in the Civil Litigation Division and as an Assistant Disciplinary Counsel with the State Bar of Texas. The winner of the Democratic primary will face Republican Jacqueline Lucci Smith in the November general election. Lucci Smith is a 30-year attorney who served as judge of Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 2 from 2007 to 2012. Before taking the bench, she worked as an operational director for Paul Bettencourt at the Harris County Tax Office and as his legal counsel at the Harris County Attorney’s Office. Lucci Smith came close to unseating Menefee in 2024, losing by just 1.2 percentage points, according to the Houston Chronicle – a margin Governor Greg Abbott’s efforts to turn Harris County ‘dark red’ aim to erase. All three candidates are women, meaning Harris County will elect its first female County Attorney regardless of the outcome.
The Leader • Saturday, December 27, 2025 • Page 3
Memorial Park Conservancy reveals new lead gift, additional details and renderings for Memorial Groves
Groves is slated to begin in 2026, with target completion in late 2027. Work on SLT enhancements will begin following the 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon. As with other major Memorial Park Master Plan projects, the SLT will remain open during construction and will be completed in conjunction with the opening of Memorial Groves in 2027.
COMMUNITY REPORTS
Transformative 100-Acre project honoring the Park’s origins on track to break ground in 2026 Memorial Park Conservancy (MPC) unveiled new details and renderings for Memorial Groves. A poetic re-imagining of the 100 acres along West Memorial Loop Drive, Memorial Groves will honor the original vision of the Park as a greenspace that pays tribute to Houston’s World War I (WWI) history, while adding new parking, restrooms, recreational amenities, play areas and educational opportunities that will enhance the everyday experience of Park visitors. Earlier it was announced that the Jerold B. Katz Foundation is donating $7.5 million toward Memorial Groves. Accelerated by generous support from Kinder Foundation ($10 million), John L. Nau III ($7.5 million), Brown Foundation ($7.5 million) and now the Katz Foundation ($7.5 million), this $50.5 million project is the latest of several transformative improvements envisioned by the Memorial Park Master Plan for the revitalization of Houston’s largest greenspace. “We are deeply honored to be a part of this landmark project that will help bring Houston’s extraordinary history to life,” said Evan H. Katz, President of the Jerold B. Katz Foundation. “Memorial Groves will offer a powerful place of reflection and learning – one that thoughtfully connects past and present, honoring service and sacrifice while strengthening the Park’s role as a resilient, vibrant public space for generations to come.”
A Living Memorial
Established in 1924, Houston’s Memorial Park was named to honor the 70,000 soldiers who served at Camp Logan, a U.S. Army training camp during WWI. Now, more than a century later, Memorial
About Memorial Park’s Ten-Year Plan
Outer Loop Trail within Memorial Groves.
Groves will honor all who contributed to the war effort at Camp Logan. Designed by Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects (NBW), Memorial Groves will create a place-based, interactive experience that not only honors Houston’s WWI history but also serves everyday park users.
Seymour Lieberman Trail Enhancements
Chris Ballard, President & CEO of Memorial Park Conservancy, announced an additional update on Memorial Groves with MPC’s commitment to improve the Seymour Lieberman Trail (SLT). “Significant enhancements will be made to the SLT within the Memorial Groves project area while maintaining the overall distance of the 3-mile loop,” Ballard said. “This is one of the nation’s most popular running trails and one of Memorial Park’s top amenities. The upgrades we’re making will be enjoyed by the nearly 10,000 people who use this trail daily.” Approximately .7 miles (3,600 ft.) of the SLT will be moved further away from West Memorial Loop Drive, creating space for new trees to be planted between the
trail and the roadway. As these trees mature, they will provide a more scenic and shaded route for trail users, enhancing comfort and natural beauty along the trail. Across West Memorial Loop Drive, the Camp Logan Historic Street Lawns – a new feature of the Memorial Groves - will extend to provide new grassy areas along the trail, ideal for gathering, stretching, or resting. These areas will also feature new fitness stations, giving park users additional opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Camp Logan Playground
The new playground within Memorial Groves will offer a one-of-a-kind experience where all ages and abilities can engage directly with the history of the Park through a series of unique play features, detailed by Earthscape, a custom playground company. Kids can climb up and into oversized soldiers’ helmets, army crates, and an enormous loaf of ‘hard bread’ each inscribed with insignias from WWI era. Another series of features includes a large bugle that appears to have blown over the adjacent log scramble and doubles as a talk tube for audio play. The playground is located near the new picnic
Rendering courtesy of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects
Rendering courtesy of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects
Memorial Groves Playground and Pavilion, north view.
pavilion and restroom, convenient to the new south parking lot, and nestled within existing trees for shade and comfort.
Memorial Groves Visitor Center
The new visitor center will anchor the primary entrance to the memorial landscape and will educate visitors on the story of WWI, Camp Logan and Memorial Groves. Designed by Moody Nolan, the structure creates a generous breezeway between the main exhibit space and new MPC offices, providing a welcoming threshold to the Groves beyond. The architectural materials and forms are shaped by the local climate,
the Park’s architectural traditions, and a desire to bring in natural light and views to the landscape, allowing visitors to feel part of the environment indoors and out. Interpretive design and content of the interior space is spearheaded by Gallagher & Associates, in collaboration with project design lead Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects (NBW). New Camp Logan historic markers at select entry points to Memorial Groves and the Park will be provided by Texas Historical Commission and included in THC’s official statewide marker database.
Timeline
Construction for Memorial
Memorial Groves is among a subset of accelerated projects of the Memorial Park Master Plan made possible by the Ten-Year Plan. The TenYear Plan enables the design and construction of significant components of the Memorial Park Master Plan and was made possible by a catalyst gift from Kinder Foundation and support from other generous donors. Together, these projects promote connectivity and resilience, restore damaged ecologies to provide higher function for the Park and city, help manage storm water, provide new cultural and recreational amenities, and tell the historical narratives of the people and the land through landscape design. Memorial Park Conservancy is delivering the Ten-Year Plan projects with its project partners: Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Uptown Houston, and Kinder Foundation. Completed TenYear Plan projects include the Clay Family Eastern Glades (opened July 2020); the Sports Complex (opened October 2020); a one-mile segment of the Seymour Lieberman Trail that is now off of Memorial Drive and is an exciting run through the trees and over ravines (opened October 2022); the Kinder Land Bridge and Cyvia & Melvyn Wolff Prairie (opened February 2023); and the Running Complex (opened November 2023).
Wednesday Advent Services December 3, 10 & 17 @ 7:00 PM
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Wednesday, December 24 @ 6:00 PM
Christmas Day Service with Communion Thursday, December 25 @ 9:30 AM
New Year’s Eve Service with Communion Wednesday, December 31 @ 7:00 PM
Our Savior Lutheran Church
5000 W TIDWELL RD, HOUSTON TX 77091 713-290-9087• www.OSL.CC
Page 4 • Saturday, December 27, 2025 • The Leader
THE TOPICS.
In one year and out another What a year it was, with patriotism overflowing, led by a courageous leader daring danger to give America a sense of glory and new heights, an air of joyfulness and a future that other nations could only gasp in admiration. Of course, I’m referring to 1776. But 2025 looked hopeful: it was only a prelude to 2026 when we shall celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, and we can wonder at the admiration our Founding Fathers would feel toward the way we have handled what they created. So let’s look back at 2025 with the good (no hurricanes), the bad (Hill Country floods) and the ugly (the Texas state government). First, our Somewhere Over the Rainbow Award: Officials with the cities of Galveston and Houston had crews remove two rainbow crosswalks to avoid losing state transportation funding. In Lubbock they even removed crosswalks portraying local hero Buddy Holley’s glasses. The ICE of Texas: Two immigrants opened three Trump Burger joints in the Houston area. Trump memorabilia festooned the restaurants. The tops of the buns were branded “Trump.” Then Trump’s ICEmen arrested them for being illegal immigrants.
Lynn Ashby Columnist
A Scotsman playing his bagpipes in Memorial Park was accosted by a woman who objected to the music. One thing led to another and the angry woman was led away in handcuffs by constables. According to an analysis from Stacker, “a digital content distribution firm,” (whatever that is) Hunters Creek Village is the richest town in Texas; 75 percent of households in the small city of about 4,400 people earn at least $200,000 a year. Meanwhile, just 1.6 percent of families in the community fall below the poverty line. They must be the maids and bodyguards. The 788,066 folks in Houston’s 18th Congressional District will finally get a voice in the U.S. House. Rep. Sylvester Turner died last March 5, but Gov. Greg Abbott refused to call a special election, as is the norm, until the next election cycle. Why? The district is solidly
Democratic, which is bad news for the thin Republican majority in the House. This brings us to the Redistricting Debacle of 2025. Do you know who your U.S. representative is? No? Not to worry. That’s about to change. It was the work of Gov. Abbott. Indeed, 2025 was a good year for him. After constantly calling for special sessions of the lawmakers, the Guv got his minions to pass his charter school bill, giving one billion of your tax dollars to private schools and home-schooling students. There go Friday Night Lights. Abbott has ordered all high schools to start right-wing Turning Point USA clubs, and warned schools that plan to block his command to expect “meaningful disciplinary action.” He also wants to eliminate all school taxes. Huh? So congratulations, our state lawmakers. Y’all have made a mockery of Texas -- again. (Columnist Molly Ivins wrote of one legislator: “If his IQ slips any lower, we’ll have to water him twice a day.”) Our Lite Guv, Dan Patrick, called on lawmakers to declare that the cut of beef, taken from the short loin behind the ribs, shall be known, by law, as the “Texas strip” steak, an item which appears on menus
across the nation as the “New York strip.” Patrick wrote on X: “Liberal New York shouldn’t get the credit for our hardworking ranchers.” It’s all a matter of priorities. There are 41 college football bowl games, 82 teams. Even Rice, with a 5-7 record, made the cut, facing Texas State in the Armed Force Bowl. At least the Owls didn’t get invited to the Gasparilla, Pop-Tarts or ReliaQuest bowls. However, Texas Tech and Texas A&M are good enough to play in the Meaningful Bowls – they both made the play-offs. Incidentally, I always said the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band was the best. Now it’s official: It has been named the Number 1 marching band in the world by ESPN. The announcement follows a perfect performance at the International Marching Arts Showcase in Paris where – it says here – “the Aggie Band stunned both the live audience and millions watching worldwide.” This just in: While visiting a Texas wildlife park, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was bitten by an ostrich! The 200 Texas National Guard (minus the fat ones) spent about $4 million to never do anything in Chicago. Now they’re going home for
the holidays. We turn to our voices in Washington. Rep. Al Green of Houston was tossed from the U.S. House of Representatives for shouting that President Trump had no mandate to cut Medicaid. Rep. Jasmine Crockett referred to wheel-chair-riding Abbott as “Governor Hot Wheels.” Crockett later explained she was referring to Abbott’s sending thousands of immigrants to liberal cities. At a House Foreign Affairs Committee meeting, Rep. Keith Self, Republican from Texas, recognized Rep. Sarah McBride, the first transgender person elected to Congress, by saying: “I now recognize the representative from Delaware: Mister McBride.” She countered with “Thank you, Madame Chair.” Sen. Ted Cruz retweeted a video showing, what he said, were thousands of demonstrators taking to Los Angeles streets to protest against the Trump regime’s immigration crackdowns. It even included LAPD cruisers being set ablaze by protesters. “This…is…not…peaceful,” Cruz wrote on social media platform X. There’s just one problem: the clip was filmed in May 2020 -- five years ago -- during Black Lives Matter
and George Floyd protests. The clip was later deleted. That may help explain why Cruz and Crockett both won awards from Politico Magazine’s list of the “7 Most Shameless Attention-Seekers in Congress.” The magazine gave Cruz the “Most Obsessed with His Own Podcast Award” and Crocket was called the “Most Likely to Mug for the C-SPAN Cameras Award.” Oh, well, those days are behind us, and we can all look forward to a great 250-year birthday party. We’ll have a year of fireworks, picnics and fun. Pay no attention to the Debbie Downers and “My Champagne glass is half empty” pessimists, or as George Washington told King George, “Don’t reign on our parade.” Ashby is already celebrating at ashby2@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.
Houston Public Library and partners launch Lifesaver Literacy Kits COMMUNITY REPORTS Houston Public Library (HPL), the Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy (MOAL), and the CenterPoint Energy Foundation have teamed up to bring a new resource to adult learners: Lifesaver Literacy Kits. Designed to strengthen both in-person and digital learning, the program equips literacy centers with the tools needed to help adult students build confidence, skills, and long-term academic success. Each participating literacy center will receive one Teacher Kit and five Student Kits, along with digital licenses to support online learning. The kits feature Brainchild Study Buddy devices, Challenger books, dictionaries, calculators, and other durable materials that can be shared and reused across multiple classes. “The Lifesaver Literacy Kits are more than supplies, they’re a lifeline for adult learners who want to build confidence and skills,” said Ana Frade, Administrative Supervisor at MOAL. “These kits reflect HPL’s commitment to meeting learn-
ers where they are and removing barriers to education,” said Sandy Gaw, Director of the Houston Public Library. “By combining hands-on tools with digital resources, we’re helping adult students access the support they need to succeed at every stage of their learning journey.” “This program is a prime example of how collaboration between public and private partners can drive innovation that opens doors for learners across all of Houston,” added Nicholas Sawicki, Executive Director of the Houston Public Library Foundation. “The CenterPoint Energy Foundation is proud to support this effort. Literacy is power, and these kits will help Houstonians thrive,” said Gloria Bounds, Manager of Community Relations at CenterPoint Energy. The program will track learner progress through assessments and monthly reports to ensure transparency and measurable outcomes. Feedback surveys will inform improvements and help scale the model to additional literacy centers in the future.
Submitted photo
Representatives from the Houston Public Library, the Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy, and partner organizations gather to distribute new Lifesaver Literacy Kits to local adult literacy centers, supporting hands-on and digital learning for adult students.
the leader Puzzlers. Answers found in this week’s Classified section
SUDOKU
LEGAL NOTICE Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Mixed Beverage, Wine & Beer Retailer's Permit and Beer Retail Dealer's On-Premise License by Dashawn Hopkins dba The Hunny Oasis, to be located at 946 N. Shepherd Dr., Suite A, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77008.
PALMEROS PLUMBING
“Small and Big Jobs Welcome”
RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL Gas/Water plumbing Repairs/Installation Sewer Camera Inspection
CALL
832-382-7157 Master Plumber
MPL #17414
Happy
Holidays
aCrOss
1. Hindu stratification 6. Least harm 12. Medical confinement 16. Silver 17. In a sick state 18. Belonging to me 19. 1/2 an em 20. “Makeover’s” Pennington 21. Take a seat 22. 1/10 meter (abbr.) 23. Atomic # 13 24. Fallow deer genus 26. Skin lesions 28. Charlie Parker’s sax 30. 31st state 31. Disparity 32. Poking stroke 34. Long time 35. Wm. the Conqueror grave 37. Hosts film festival 39. Mend 40. Gear teeth 41. Of cadmium 43. 1618 Reformed synod 44. Fringe-toed lizard 45. Where passengers ride 47. 1/60 hour (abbr.) 48. Initials of TV cartoon father 50. Pack down 52. ___ and feathered
54. Hyperbolic cosecant 56. Operating system (abbr.) 57. Atomic #99 59. Crown owned Isle 60. Santa __ trail 61. Booze support group 62. Footcandle 63. Retaliations 66. Natural logarithm 67. Quality of usefulness 70. Sitting position 71. They turn litmus paper red
dOwn
1. Brandy region of France 2. Equally 3. Spittles 4. Very small 5. Ethiopia 6. Filled with sediment 7. An antiviral AIDS drug 8. Saudi king to 2005 9. Early word forms 10. Yes in Spanish 11. Ketchup veggies 12. Used to have (Scottish) 13. Old Greek storyteller
14. Den 15. Stockings 25. Scottish road surface 26. Diego, Francisco, Anselmo 27. Bodily cavity 29. Durations 31. About gene 33. ‘Footloose’ actor Kevin 36. Supply weaponry 38. Neither 39. Capital of Syria 41. Shortcut 42. Feline 43. Have already done 46. Rifle barrel cleaning tool 47. High IQ group 49. Libra constellation 51. Perch genus 53. Summer precipitation 54. Ancient Roman boxing gloves 55. Silver Skates’ Brinker 58. Cobblestone 60. Policeman (French) 64. Pizza, apple or chiffon 65. Winglike structure 68. 37th state 69. Potato state
WORD SCRAMBLE
The Leader • Saturday, December 27, 2025 • Page 5
GUEST COLUMN
2025 Marked a Turning Point for Power: Here’s how Houston families can adapt in 2026 If 2025 taught Houston anything about energy, it’s that predictability is a luxury we no longer have. The year started with freeze scares, summer stayed warm through the evening hours, CenterPoint increased TDU delivery charge rates, and now is ending with households bracing for potential winter weather spikes. For some families in Greater Houston, energy went from background noise to a monthly budgeting headache, and it’s not easing up in 2026. The good news? Homeowners actually have more control than they think. But first, let’s look at what happened this year. Higher Bills, Higher Demand Across Texas, 2025 brought TDU delivery rate increases from CenterPoint that pushed bills upward before accounting for homeowners’ heating or cooling use. We saw temperature swings ranging from 48 degrees at night to 82 degrees during the day, leading Houston families to spend more time “thermostat juggling” than ever before. ERCOT issued conservation notices in both winter and summer, signaling that Texas’s electric ecosystem is evolving, and residents are evolving with it. Meanwhile, Texas saw new power demand from industries like data centers, AI computing hubs, and manufacturing expansion. That growth is good for the state economy, but it increases competition for fuel supplies and adds strain to a grid that
SAM LUNA Director of Product at BKV Energy
wasn’t built for 24/7 highload consumption. As we step into 2026, let’s look at what Houston homeowners can expect. Expect Volatility: Forecasts and Energy Bills The phrase we kept hearing this year was: “Why did my bill swing so much, even when I didn’t change anything?” It’s not your imagination. Higher CenterPoint charges, market fluctuations, winter natural gas pricing, and rapid temperature swings all contribute to bill unpredictability. Houston simply uses more energy cycling between AC and heat than most regions do, which means any inefficiencies in your home get magnified on your bill.
The Upside: Homeowners Can Offset Some of That Shock
In 2025, 63% of U.S. households owned a smart home device, including smart thermostats, plugs, and loadtracking apps. Why now? Well, because cost savings and the effort to make these changes now feel worth the learning curve. And here’s the biggest
takeaway heading into 2026: Research keeps showing that when households can actually see how and when they’re using power because of smart meters, usage apps, or time-of-use pricing, they use less of it. It’s not always about having the newest system or the most significant upgrades, but instead, awareness changes behavior, and behavior is where the real savings start. So as we head into a new year, here are the most realistic, homeowner-friendly strategies: 1. Thermostat Settings are Critical Houston households can save up to 10% annually just by fine-tuning settings. • 68°–70°F in winter when you’re home • 65°–67°F overnight or when away And don’t continually change your temperature setting, pick a number and let it stabilize. Constant up-down adjustments force your system to work harder and cost more. If you install one thing in 2026, make it a smart thermostat that lets you pre-program and create schedules so you don’t have to change it every day. They’ve become more affordable, easy to use, and many utilities offer rebates for using them. 2. Watch out for “Phantom Energy” Holiday lights, chargers, gaming consoles, and smart assistants consume energy even when idle. One of the sneakiest drivers of higher bills isn’t your AC or heater; it’s the stuff that stays
plugged in all the time. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that standby or “phantom” power from idle electronics can make up 5–10% of a home’s electricity use, which means simple steps like unplugging unused devices or using smart power strips can trim costs without anyone sacrificing comfort. 3. Maintenance Is Key The fastest way homeowners lose money on energy isn’t dramatic; it’s simple neglect. Dirty filters, blocked vents, and skipped AC tuneups quietly drain cash month after month. A clogged filter alone can add 5–15% to your heating bill, and most people don’t even realize it. If your unit hasn’t been checked in 18 months, it’s time to schedule a maintenance visit. You wouldn’t skip oil changes on your car, so don’t ignore the biggest mechanical system in your house. A simple $10 filter swap every 30–90 days can keep efficiency up and bills down. And when temperatures swing wildly, giving your system a little attention now can save you a big repair or a hefty utility bill later.
Looking Ahead to 2026
There are four significant things to keep in mind as we enter the new year: First, CenterPoint fee adjustments aren’t going away. They work with the PUCT to adjust TDU delivery charge rates at least every March and September. CenterPoint’s rates have likely increased thanks to their Systemwide
Resiliency Plan. Second, demand growth is outpacing comfort. Texas isn’t just using more power because of weather; it’s using more power because of population growth, electrification, and large industrial loads like data centers. When demand rises faster than infrastructure can expand, prices tighten. That means peak hours get more expensive, volatility increases, and households with inefficient homes feel the squeeze first. Third, more families will begin to invest in home solar and storage solutions. 2025 cracked the door open; in 2026, people will walk through it. After repeated storms and grid concerns, rooftop solar, battery systems, and generator-solar hybrids are becoming less “tech hobbyist” and more “everyday homeowner.” And finally, education will determine who wins. The families who actually understand their usage patterns will save the most money. The hottest new home improvement trend isn’t granite countertops, it’s energy literacy. Homeowners who learn how their house behaves in cold snaps and heatwaves will control costs better than those who don’t.
Final Thought: Control What You Can
Houston can’t avoid unpredictable weather, increased industrial demand, or CenterPoint rate adjustments, but households can control waste, timing, and awareness. If you know where
your energy goes, you can change where your money goes. Heading into 2026, that mindset matters more than ever. Check your thermostat settings, schedule maintenance, plug leaks before you plug in decorations. Don’t underestimate all the small changes you can make because they add up fast and can save you a significant amount of money each month. If 2025 was the year homeowners got surprised by energy, 2026 can be the year we get ahead of it. Sam Luna is a third generation Houstonian with a deep-rooted connection to The Leader area. His grandparents lived in the Heights where they facilitated educational workshops for seniors at All Saints Catholic Church. He continues his family’s commitment to serving the greater good as Director of Product Marketing for BKV Energy - a Texas retail energy provider that strives to educate consumers by operating transparently and without gimmicks. Learn more about Sam Luna at bkvenergy.com/team/samuelluna. 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.
HAR local data by zip code: Houston homebuyers thankful for more flexibility in November
Source: Houston Association of Realtors' Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
STAFF REPORTS
Moderating prices and expanding inventory gave buyers more breathing room This November, Houston’s housing market gave buyers and sellers something to be thankful for as conditions continued to move toward balance. According to the Houston Association of Realtors' November 2025 Housing Market Update, single-family home sales dipped year-overyear for the first time since April. A total of 6,347 homes were sold in November, a slight decrease from 6,499 during the same time last year. Pending sales rose 7.2 percent year-over-year, signaling continued demand and ongoing market activity heading into the end of the year. Home prices continued to slightly moderate in November. The median home price declined 1.5 percent to $325,000, while the average price edged up 0.8 percent to
$422,552, driven by more activity in the luxury market. The luxury segment – comprised of homes priced at $1 million and above and representing just 4.7 percent of all homes on the market – was the top performing sector, with transactions up 23.4 percent year-over-year. Sales activity slowed for homes in the $250,000 to $999,999 price range, which represented 72 percent of all home sales in November, as well as at the lower end of the market. Reflecting shifting market conditions, the average listto-sale price ratio declined to 92.2 percent in November, down from October and the lowest level since HAR began tracking the metric in 2001. “Houston’s housing market is setting into a balanced pace,” said HAR Chair Shae Cottar with LPT Realty. “Buyers now have more time, more options and a little more breathing room to negotiate. Sellers are still attracting offers, but realistic pricing and expectations make all the difference.”
Housing Market Overview
Sales of all property types across the Greater Houston area declined 2.7 percent yearover-year in November, with 7,475 properties sold. While multi-family properties and country homes saw stronger sales than last year, activity slowed across all other property types. Total dollar volume edged down by 0.8 percent to $3.1 billion. Inventory levels continued to rise, with active listings increasing 19.4 percent from last year with 57,961 available properties.
Single-Family Homes Update, Citywide
In November, single-family home sales declined yearover-year for the first time since April, while buyer interest remained steady. A total of 6,347 single-family homes sold versus 6,499 a year ago, which represents a decrease of 2.3 percent. The median home price was down 1.5 percent to $325,000, while the average price rose
0.8 percent to $422,552. The average price per square foot was $174, slightly lower than $175 last year. Affordability improved year-over-year for buyers with the average mortgage rate dipping from 6.81 percent in 2024 to 6.24 percent in November 2025, as reported by Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey. When coupled with an assumed 20 percent down payment, the monthly mortgage payment for principal and interest of the median-priced home dropped from $1,722.84 to $1,599.17 – a savings of $123.67 monthly or $1,484.04 per year. Active listings of singlefamily homes totaled 36,620 in November, up 21.0 percent from last year and the lowest level since April, when 34,362 homes were on the market. Housing supply also reached its lowest point since April, expanding to 5.0 months of inventory compared to 4.3 months a year earlier. For context, the national average currently stands at 4.4 months, according to the National
Association of Realtors. Homes spent an average of 60 days on the market in November, up from 53 days during the same period last year. Broken out by housing segments, single-family home sales performed as follows: • $1 - $99,999: decreased 2.2 percent (89 transactions) • $100,000 - $149,999: increased 10.6 percent (146 transactions) • $150,000 - $249,999: increased 3.6 percent (1,240 transactions) • $250,000 - $499,999: decreased 6.4 percent (3,561 transactions) • $500,000 - $999,999: decreased 7.3 percent (1,009 transactions) • $1M and above: increased 23.4 percent (301 transactions) HAR also breaks out sales figures for existing single-family homes. In November, sales declined by 0.8 percent yearover-year, with 4,131 closings compared to 4,164 a year ago. The average sales price was statistically unchanged at
LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? Scan this QR code to make a donation through Paypal today!
$439,743, while the median price was essentially flat at $325,000.
Houston Real Estate Highlights in November
• Single-family home sales declined 2.3% year-overyear. • Days on Market (DOM) for single-family homes went from 53 to 60 days. • The single-family median price declined 1.5% to $325,000. • The single-family average price edged up by 0.8% to $422,552. • Single-family home months of inventory expanded to a 5.0-months supply, up from 4.3 months a year ago. • Townhome and condominium sales were down 8.3% with 341 units sold. The median price increased 2.4% to $230,000, and the average price rose 10.7% to $268,628. • Total property sales declined 2.7% with 7,475 units sold. • Total dollar volume was down 0.8% to $3.1 billion.
Page 6 • Saturday, December 27, 2025 • The Leader
Meow Wolf Houston rings in 2026 with a New Year’s Eve celebration led by local DJs COMMUNITY REPORTS Meow Wolf Houston’s Radio Tave will welcome the new year with a celebration powered by Houston talent, bringing local DJs and artists together for a night that won’t be forgotten across multiple dimensions. On December 31 from 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., the exhibition transforms into a nighttime experience shaped by Houston DJs, shifting soundscapes, and a countdown woven through channels of Radio Tave. Guests are invited to explore the worlds of Meow Wolf Houston after hours while moving between distinct musical zones throughout the night. Tickets are currently for sale for a limited time. This year’s event will feature
performances across multiple realms within the exhibition, each offering its own rhythm and atmosphere. From textured electronic sets to bassdriven blends and dance-floor energy, the evening showcases a range of Houston-based sounds leading up to the midnight moment. Guests are welcome to dress for the occasion in futuristic fashion or bold New Year’s attire, though all are encouraged to arrive as they are in this dimension. Featured Artists at Meow Wolf Houston’s New Year’s Eve: • Machine Elves • IMAX713 • PHARAX • KINOTE A lineup of Houston-based DJs will define the sound of the night across the exhibition. Guests will encounter sets
shaped by the styles each artist represents. Machine Elves produces atmospheric electronic sets rooted in Houston’s underground arts community. IMAX713 is known for house and techno shaped by his work with local music collectives. PHARAX brings Latin House and Afro-inspired rhythms that have gained traction within Houston and beyond. KINOTE showcases a blend of Afro House, Afrobeats, Hip Hop, and Latin selections grounded in Houston’s diverse music scene. The night will also feature Meow Wolf performers from Phenomenomaly, Meow Wolf’s immersive, live theatre show within Radio Tave. Tickets to the event will include full access to the exhibition which will feature a Meow Wolf twist on clas-
sic New Year’s Eve festivities. Additional moments of celebration will be present throughout the night, with bars available for guests wishing to purchase special beverages as they explore. “Meow Wolf’s New Year’s Eve brings together local DJs, art, and community in a way that only Houston could pull off,” said Aaron Johnson, general manager of Meow Wolf Houston, “It is a chance for guests to start off their new year in a state of creativity and exploration.” This event is limited to guests 21 and older. A valid physical ID is required for entry. Tickets are limited and on sale now. For more information, visit meowwolf.com/ houston for ticket and event details.
Heroes for Freedom Foundation empowers veterans with holiday assistance COMMUNITY REPORTS The Heroes for Freedom Foundation, a Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting military veterans, is making a meaningful impact this holiday season with its annual Christmas check presentation event. This year’s gathering was held in honor of John Angelina, whose leadership and service greatly shaped the foundation’s mission. The event took place in partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project: with a Presentation at 11:00 a.m., a video tribute from Roger Clemens and check presentation. This year, the foundation distributed $11,000 in Christmas checks to 10 veterans in need—offering critical financial relief and holiday
Photo courtesy of Heroes for Freedom
Members of the Heroes for Freedom Foundation and Wounded Warrior Project gather during the foundation’s annual Christmas check presentation, which provided holiday financial support to local veterans.
support to those who have sacrificed so much for our nation. The foundation focuses on veterans facing physical or emotional challenges after
their service. To date, it has donated more than $160,000 to veterans’ causes and organizes unique experiences such as duck hunts, fishing tournaments, and golf events that
help veterans reconnect with their community and experience renewed camaraderie. “Many veterans face challenges that are invisible to the public, and it’s our mis-
Trip Funding Needed: Treble Choir of Houston selected to perform at prestigious Southwestern American Choral Directors Association convention COMMUNITY REPORTS
Funds needed to help Treble Choir students achieve this dream The Treble Choir of Houston, under the direction of Marianna Parnas-Simpson and composed of young women in grades 6-12, has been invited to perform at the Southwestern American Choral Directors Association Convention in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in March 2026. Only a small number of choirs across a seven-state region were selected for this honor, based on a rigorous recorded audition process judged by a panel of esteemed choral professionals. This recognition places the Treble Choir of Houston among the top sec-
ondary school ensembles in the Southwest. “This achievement is a tribute to the dedication, talent, and hard work of our students and the incredible choral music program we have created,” says Parnas-Simpson, who received the Texas Choral Masters Award at the Texas Choral Directors' Association conference this past summer in San Antonio. She founded the Treble Choir in 2006, which performs widely in the community and serves as the resident children's choir at Christ Church Cathedral. Some of the Choir's performance highlights include Carnegie Hall, the International Choral Festival in Powell River, British Columbia, and the Washington National Cathedral. “This three-day trip will be
a life-changing experience for our 40 young musicians, and our goal is to enable every one of them to participate without regard to their family’s personal financial circumstances,” says Parnas-Simpson. “To achieve this goal, we must raise $12,000 in scholarship funds. We are asking the Houston Community to support our efforts with a donation of any size.” The Choir’s feature performance will take place at Albuquerque’s First United Methodist Church, which provides a reverent and acoustically beautiful setting, offering students the opportunity to share their music in a space that values artistry and community. The young women will be exposed to other New Mexico experiences, includ-
ing the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the historic charm of Old Town Albuquerque, and Sawmill Market Food Hall. Parnas-Simpson hopes that Houston-area community members will help the Choir members realize this dream by donating. Please go to this Fellowship One Giving at tinyurl.com/GiveTrebleChoir to donate. Follow these instructions: 1. Select the Fund “Treble Choir of Houston.” 2. Include “Albuquerque trip” in the box labeled “long text.” Any amount is appreciated. “The gift is tax-deductible and will enable us to represent Christ Church Cathedral, the City of Houston, and the State of Texas at this prestigious gathering featuring the Southwest’s finest choirs,” says Parnas-Simpson.
sion to give them the support they deserve,” said Fern Davis, Heroes for Freedom Foundation Board Member. “This holiday season, we are thrilled to help veterans in need with both financial assistance and a reminder that they’re not forgotten.” This year’s holiday initiative supported 12 local veteran recipients and their military families, helping them enjoy a brighter and more secure holiday season. “The pandemic has made the challenges even harder for many of our warriors; the stories and the struggles are incredibly real,” Davis added. “We are committed to helping them in ways they might not be able to help themselves.” Beyond financial assistance, Heroes for Freedom is dedicated to raising awareness of veterans’ needs and inspiring community involvement.
“It is not just about financial assistance,” said Davis. “It is about showing our veterans that their sacrifice is appreciated and that we are here for them every step of the way.” To learn more about the Heroes for Freedom Foundation or to contribute, please visit heroesforfreedomfoundation.org. To learn more about Wounded Warrior Project, please visit woundedwarriorproject.org. Wounded Warrior Project is our nation’s leading veteran services organization, focused on the total wellbeing of post-9/11 wounded, ill, or injured veterans. Our programs, advocacy, and awareness efforts help warriors thrive, provide essential lifelines to families and caregivers, and prevent veteran suicides.
Pet of the Week
ECHO
The Leader is excited to partner with local no-kill shelter Friends For Life to feature an adoptable pet every week. To view all adoptable animals, fill out an adoption application, show your support through donations or volunteering, or take a pet compatibility quiz to zero in on your very own best friend for life, please visit friends4life.org.
Name: Echo Gender: Male
Age: 1 year old
Echo is a 50 lb bundle of love who’s ready to bring joy and loyalty to his forever family! With his happy personality and affectionate heart, Echo is the kind of dog who makes every day brighter. He loves spending time with his people—whether it’s going for walks, playing with toys, or
Houston’s original “Hardwood Lumber Co.”
simply relaxing by your side. Echo is the perfect mix of playful and laid-back. He’ll
713-862-6628
happily join you on an adventure, but he’s just as content to curl up for a nap once the fun is over. His sweet, social
Over 100 species of hardwoods, softwoods and exotic woods in stock. 70+ years of quality lumber and dependable service. No job too large or too small
nature makes him easy to love, and he’s eager to form a close bond with his family. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who will shower
OFFERING:
you with love and keep you smiling, Echo is the pup for
• Custom Millwork • Hardwood Plywood • Barnwood • Live Edge Slabs • Reclaimed Timbers • Decking and more 700 E. 5 1/2 Street (Houston Heights) Phone: 713-862-6628 Fax: 713-862-5673 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7:30-5:00 Sat. 9:00-1:00
www.ClarksHardwood.com
you. Apply to adopt him today! Learn more about Echo at friends4life.org/ adoptable-pets/echo.
Creston Inderrieden, Broker
713.301.4054 creston@indyquest.net
Local business is our business.
Inside Today: A 9-year-old girl was killed in the Heights • Page 10
FACEBOOK LIVE SALE
Everything on sale!
We provide a real
JUNE 21ST
estate experience driven by vision and
6 PM - 8 PM
defined by process.
713.725.8748
Flower & Gift Shop
michael@happenhouston.com
Covering the Heights, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest & the neighborhoods of North Houston
10570 NW Frwy ❖ 713-680-2350
Saturday, June 18, 2022 • Vol. 67 • No. 25
ABOUT US 2020 North Loop West Suite 220 (713) 686-8494 news@theleadernews.com www.theleadernews.com Facebook/FromTheLeader
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ATTORNEY PHYLLIS A. OESER
Leader’s Choice Award Winner for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 For Professional Legal Services Wills, Probate Estate Planning & Real Estate
5005 W. 34th St, Ste 104A
713-692-0300
www.hartmanassociates.com
City moving forward with traffic plan for 11th By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com
Protected bicycle lanes are coming to 11th Street in the Heights, where drivers will have fewer lanes to maneuver along one of the neighborhood's most popular thoroughfares. That is by design, according to Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, who announced Tuesday that the City of Houston will move forward with its long-debated plan to transform traffic on 11th Street in the interest of safety and to make the road more multimodal. Bike lanes will be added on
both sides of 11th between North Shepherd Drive and Michaux Street, where there will be one vehicular lane in each direction with a center, left-turn lane along the stretch between Yale and Studewood streets. The plan also calls for bike lanes along Michaux between 11th and Stude Park to the south as well as protected crossings for pedestrians and cyclists at intersections such as 11th and Nicholson Street, where the Heights Hike-and-Bike Trail crosses 11th, and Michaux and White Oak Drive. There now are two vehicle lanes in each direction on 11th
between Shepherd and Michaux, and no center turn lanes. "With four lanes for cars, the street encourages fast driving," Turner said in a 4-minute, 30-second video released by his office. "That speed results in 10 percent more crashes than the average road across the state of Texas. Those crashes are at nearly every intersection between Michaux and Shepherd. Eleventh Street is not safe for the neighborhood." David Fields, the chief transportation planner for the city, said Photo by Adam Zuvanich construction is estimated to start A cyclist waits to cross 11th Street at its intersection with NicholSee 11th Street P. 5
son Street. The City of Houston is adding protected bike lanes on 11th and reducing the number of vehicle lanes.
Quite a hoot
Bullet train project in limbo with CEO’s resignation
It’s not just my business, It’s my neighborhood
By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com
Send us your story of interest news@theleadernews.com
INSIDE.
Show them the money. Houston ISD teachers are getting significant pay raises.
Page 4
Photo by Mark Lear An eastern screech owl named Owlouette loves on Beaker, one of her offspring, in the backyard of Oak Forest resident Mark Lear.
Big art, small studio. An artist with ties to the Heights will display her work on Almeda Road.
Page 6
Top talent. Evelyn Garcia of "Top Chef" fame brings her brand of cuisine to the Heights.
Page 9
Joy for Julep. A Washington Avenue cocktail bar won a James Beard Award this week.
Page 9
THE INDEX.
Owl-watching becoming popular pastime By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com
There are loving displays of care and affection, inspirational moments and harrowing scenes that can end up being upsetting. Eating is a big part of the action as well, with the stars of the show making the most of the ingredients they have available. There’s also an eclectic soundtrack, with rustling, rattling, whinnying and hooting. The feed from the camera in the backyard of Oak Forest resident Pam Berry – set up inside a wooden owl house that her boyfriend built and affixed to an oak tree – creates a nightly show that’s a cross between “The Bachelor,” “The Voice,” “Survivor” and “Chopped.” But Berry says it’s more entertaining than any reality show, because what she’s watching is actually real. Call it “Chronicles of Eastern Screech Owls, The Nesting Edition,” which offers a unique glimpse into the lives and annual mating rituals of nocturnal birds that are common in the Houston region. “It’s better than TV,” Berry said. “Sometimes we’ll put the video up on the TV and watch it for a while.” Berry and her boyfriend, Spring Branch resident Scott
Photo by Mark Lear Three owlets stick their heads out of the owl house in Mark Lear’s Oak Forest backyard earlier this year.
Sherrill, who works as a handyman in the Garden Oaks, Oak Forest and Shepherd Park Plaza area, both have owl boxes equipped with cameras in their backyards. Sherrill said he’s constructed a couple dozen or so of the small wooden structures for other local residents, in the hopes the bird
The yearslong effort to construct a high-speed railway between Houston and Dallas appears to have stalled, at least for the time being. Carlos Aguilar announced last weekend in a LinkedIn post that he had resigned as CEO of Texas Central, the Dallas-based company behind the quest to connect the state’s two largest cities with a bullet train. His departure comes as the Texas Supreme Court considers a case that will determine whether the company has the legal authority to exercise eminent domain - likely a critical factor in its ability to acquire the land needed for the proposed railway - and amid questions about the project’s financial viability. Carlos Aguilar “While I could not align our current stakeholders on a common vision for a path forward, I wish the project the greatest success and remain convinced of the importance of this venture for the safety and prosperity of all Texans,” Aguilar wrote. “... Texas and the U.S. deserve the best transportation options and I am convinced that in time, these will become a reality.” Texas Central did not respond to a Tuesday email seeking comment, nor did representatives of a Dallas-based public relations firm that has worked for the company. A call to the phone number listed online at texascentral.com, cited as a hotline for the bullet train project, was answered with a recording that said, “The number you dialed is not in service at this time.” It is unclear who is leading the company, if anyone, as there was nothing listed under an “Executive Leadership Team” header on the Texas Central website. The site also said the company has no current job openings. A string of news releases on the Texas Central website ends with an announcement dated Sept. 21, 2020. That’s when the company said the Federal Railroad Administration had issued a series of safety and operational standards that
See Owls P. 5
See Railway P. 5
Carter comes home as new principal at Hamilton By Adam Zuvanich azuvanich@theleadernews.com
Erika Carter has never lived in the Heights, but she’s long considered Hamilton Middle
tant principal and a summer school principal. She still kept tabs on the Heights campus after leaving to fulfill other roles at other HISD schools and, when she
teacher, I always wanted to give back to it.” Carter succeeds Robert Michaels-Johnson, who she referenced as having retired. Michaels-Johnson declined
the seventh-most pandemicresilient middle school in the Houston region. A total of 107 Houston-area schools received that distinction, signifying that at least 75 percent
The Leader • Saturday, December 27, 2025 • Page 7
Wanting to run a classified ad? CALL 713-371-3600 Monday - Friday. We accept credit cards.
APPLIANCE / & FITNESS GENERAL HOMEHEALTH IMPROVEMENTS TV REPAIR
KINARD’S Appliance Service
Washers - Dryers Dishwashers - Ranges
713-857-2050
Aikido - Judo Japanese Martial Arts 8th Degree Black Belt
713-826-5877
Complete Pavers • Patios • Decks • Driveways • Brick Columns
www.aikibudo-aikido.com
ELECTRICAL SERVICES BRAVENEC ELECTRIC
Mario’s Discount Concrete Work
713-864-4168
JUNK HAULING
cc accepted
bravenecelectric@gmail.com
GARAGE/ESTATE SALE
BLUE MOON ANTIQUES AND ESTATE SALES Antiques and Collectibles Providing Estate Sales Services 832-286-7882
Like us on www.facebook.com/ bluemoonantiques-houstontx
HEAT/AIR CONDITIONING A/C And HeAting
SAleS, ServiCe & MAintenAnCe TACL A020360E
713-869-8876
“Honesty is our best discount”
! # -AN Cooling & Heating Res. - Com.
$20 OFF with this ad
American Standard Authorized Dealer
713-460-COLD(2653) www.acmanhouston.com TACL B27781E
EUGENE
HAULS TRASH: Cleans Garages, Trims Trees.
832-890-5453
Manny
Concrete Breakout Driveways Licensed Sidewalks Insured • Bonded FREE Parking Lots Estimates Ready Mix Concrete Delivery Residential & Commercial
281.414.8698
• Home • Yard • Garage • Storage • Shed Removal
PETS M M&M Pet Sitting S
Afford Affordable Pet Care In Your Home Will Treat Your Loved Ones As My Own Bonded Mitzi 713-444-8517
Call today to advertise
713-371-3600
PAINTING
ALL HOME REPAIR
Pete’s Quality
Ramiro Garcia
CUSTOM PAINTING
House Painting
• Flooring/Carpet • Ceramic Tile Repair • Sheetrock • Painting • Plumbing • Sheet Vinyl & Tile • Roofing Repair • Shower/Bath Redo • Tile • Fence Repair • Termite/Water Repair 40 Yrs. Exp. & Leader Advertiser
• Interior/Exterior • Sheetrock Repairs • Door Renishing • Wood Repairs • Pressure Washing
WATER DAMAGE REPAIRS
Including Flooded Homes • Exterior/Interior • Pressure Washing • Sheetrock Repair • References • Insured 713-201-5569 832-372-5577
713.206.5965
Call Sam 713-582-5500 713-686-2285
Looking to hire good local people? Leader classifieds get great response and cost less than the daily paper.
FENCING
IT’S NOT JUST A FENCE IT’S AN INVESTMENT
petesqualitypainting300@gmail.com
ROOFING
RIO GRANDE FENCE CO.
Thank you for your continued business Free Estimates on Fencing
ROOFING
YOUR AD CAN RUN HERE
by SERNA BROS.
713-862-7320 30+ Yrs. Exp.
Serving NW Houston Since 1973
Call 713-371-3600
FREE estimates
713-299-2711
NEED A NEW ROOF?
www.camposroofing.com
Campos Roofing
“The Residential Roofing Specialists”
Gilbert 281-948-4879
Re-roofs • Repairs Hardi Siding • Gutters • Painting • Windows
TONY MUNOZ FENCE CO.
All Work Guaranteed Free Estimates
3825 Dr. • (713) 680-3530 3308Pinemont Ella Blvd
H H VETERAN OWNED H H 45 yrs. Exp. - FREE EST.
We’ve got you
• Chain Link • Wood • Wrought Iron / Hand Rails • Gate Operators Residential & Commercial
713-680-0059
Charlie
COVERED!
713-371-3600
281-389-4654
LOCAL LAWN & GARDEN GUIDE
713-480-9450
CALL
832-515-4214
Repair & Install Pressure Washing Painting • Siding
Residential & Commercial
HERE
Installation Repair Sanding Finishing
WOOD FENCING
Trimming • Removal Pruning • Topping Stump Grinding Free Insured & Bonded Estimates
AD CAN RUN
WOOD FLOORS
Compare us.
FENCING
RAMIREZ TREE SERVICE
YOUR
Adam’s
281-904-0016 713-628-6302
Junk Remover
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
CONTRACTORS/HANDYMAN REMODELERS
CONCRETE WORK
Gilbert 281-948-4879
Since 1953 - TECL 19210 Res./Comm. Wiring
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
GENERAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Gilbert’s Landscape Lawn Care
Mowing • Edging • Blowing Flower Bedding • Fertilizing
TREE CUTTING & TRIMMING
FREE ESTIMATES – 17 Yrs. Exp.
(281) 948-4879
LUXURY LAWNS
Lawn Maintenance Landscape & Design Sprinklers/Drainage Systems Free Estimates
Thank you for being part of our community this year. Wishing you joy, warmth, and a bright year ahead.
YOUR AD CAN RUN HERE Call 713-371-3600
20 yrs. exp. 713-688-4244 David Bartula
Happy Holidays!
713-371-3600
Call today - beautiful home tomorrow!
• Landscape Installation • Weather Damage Replacement • Tree Trim & Removal • Lawn & Bed Maintenance • Landscape Lighting • Organic Soil Amendments
713-682-5296
www.richtersservicesinc.com
LEADER PUZZLER SOLUTIONS
Don’t Get Stuck Without A/C This Summer!
Schedule Soon & Save Up to $2000! Free Estimates and Second Opinions for New Heating and Cooling Systems Many Payment Options to choose from Service Available Seven Days a Week Licensed and Professional Technicians
Call today! (866) 754-6849
$49
Cooling or Heating System Tune Up
WORD SCRAMBLE ServiCe
CRyptO fun
Answers: A. account B. merger C. employee D. salary
ay! Subscribe mtomdunity
Get YOUR co orstep! o d r u o y t a s new
Price valid for one working unit. Excludes oil fired systems. Valid at participating ARS® Network locations. Not valid for third party, new construction, or commercial customers, with any other offers, discounts, or on prior sales. Call service center for details. Coupon required at time of service. Void if copied or transferred and where prohibited. Any other use may constitute fraud. Cash value $.001. Offer expires 6/30/2024. License numbers available at americanresidential.com/licenses
Call now! 713-371-3600
SAVE UP TO
$2000
on a New Cooling and Heating System with our Buy Back Program!
Savings requires purchase and installation of select complete heating and cooling system. Removal and disposal by Company of existing heating and cooling system required. Valid at participating ARS® Network locations. Not valid for third party, new construction, or commercial customers, with any other offers, discounts, or on prior sales. Call service center for details. Coupon required at time of service. Void if copied or transferred and where prohibited. Any other use may constitute fraud. Cash value $.001. Offer expires 6/30/2024. License numbers available at americanresidential.com/licenses
GENE
Page 8 • Saturday, December 27, 2025 • The Leader
Art Valet:
From Nude Beaches to Yoga Mats: 2025’s unforgettable artists This past year in Art Valet, I’ve introduced you to dozens of incredible people—nearly 40!—all artists or deeply immersed in the arts. That number stopped me in my tracks— and made me think it’d be fun to rewind to the start of 2025. Artists always have a good story, background, or something you never would have guessed about them. For example, the title of my first column of the year, “Life of an artist: ‘Carlos Santana saw me naked’” was my attentiongetting headline to start 2025. That was part of Melinda Patrick’s answer to my favorite interview question, “Anything wild and crazy that would raise eyebrows?” What may have been the shortest and certainly best answer—but no less impactful—Patrick simply stated: “No photos, please, but many years ago, I spent time at a nude beach outside San Francisco. Carlos Santana saw me naked.” Patrick, a contemporary representational painter, attended a few of the markets early on, designed the current logo I use (which was never meant to be a logo!) and other collaborations. She’s still painting; see her work at melindapatrick.com. Artists Caroline Truong and Jenn Bianco still paint but launched new businesses. Truong, with a background as a teacher, launched The Painter’s House, an art studio and guest house where she offers kids’ and adult art classes taught by herself and guest teachers. Learn more and book a class at www.carolinetruongart.com In a February column titled “From Canvas to Yoga Mat: Jenn Bianco revamps yoga in Houston,” I visited the ribboncutting ceremony for Luxe Yoga, a luxury yoga studio in
Mitch Cohen Art Columnist
artvalet@gmail.com West University Place. Bianco fell in love with yoga while escaping the rigors of life. She saw something missing in the yoga world and sought to fill that gap with Luxe. Not being a “yoga person,” Bianco guided us through what led her from the canvas to the mat. “I wanted a space where I could really just focus on the yoga,” Bianco said. “I was finding myself distracted by smells, sweat, germs, and just all the other things surrounding a workout, which made it that much less effective. The experience we’ve designed is intuitive so that every time you know what to expect, and you can reap all the benefits. Simple and out.” They’re still at it, too. Luxe Yoga is located at 5333 Kirby Drive, Suite 190, Houston, Texas 77005. Learn more and book a class at luxe-yoga.com. In March, I helped artist and author Maria Elena Sandovici perpetuate the rumor of two fictional horses escaping Galveston’s Great Storm by climbing to the second floor in her 2020 novel “Storms of Malhado.” She’s since written a new novel, “Breakaway Bridesmaid,” available on Amazon. Learn more at HaveWatercolorsWillTravel. com. I said goodbye to my muse, mentor and good friend Carolyn “Bertrand” Hodges in April and shared her life on these pages that she graced many times. I referred to Miss Carolyn often, as she was a
Maria Elena Sandovici with her books in Galveston.
quote magnet. She dropped thought-provoking one-liners about art and artists so often I always had a pen and paper handy to capture them. I mentioned in that column a briefcase of mementos and writings she left me, and I’m still going through it. As promised, I’ll share more about Miss Carolyn in 2026. This would have to be a multipart column to cover them all. Luckily, The Leader archives are waiting—visit Arts > Art Valet or go directly: theleadernews.com/the_arts/ artvalet/.
Caroline Truong poses before her an Art Workshop
Photo by David Behrman
The late Carolyn “Bertrand” Hodges on a birthday dessert adventure with Art Valet columnist Mitch Cohen.
This edition of The Leader lands right between Christmas and New Year’s, my absolute favorite time of year. Enjoy the quiet days, indulge in those desserts guilt-free, and I’ll see you right here in 2026 with more Art Valet adventures. Happy holidays!
Luxe Yoga has lots of a space in the Yang Room.
Houston Parks Board partners with Redbud Arts Center on art sculptures at Wiess Park COMMUNITY REPORTS
Photo by Tim Glover
Seven unique sculptures by Texan artists are now on display through August 2026 Houston Parks Board (HPB) has teamed up with Redbud Arts Center in the Heights to bring an inspiring blend of nature and creativity to Wiess Park. Starting this month, parkgoers can experience seven sculptures crafted by talented Texan artists, each designed to complement the park’s scenic landscape. This outdoor exhibition will run through August 2026, offering a unique opportunity for the community to enjoy art in a vibrant, open-air setting. “Art and nature are deeply connected — both inspire exploration, reflection, and joy,” said Beth White, president and CEO of HPB. “We’re delighted to bring art to life at Wiess Park by transforming this greenspace into a living gallery for the community. Thanks to the leadership of Don Aron and the partnership with Redbud Arts Center, we are giving residents a space to enjoy recreation, connect with nature and experience art.” Featured works include: • Michelle Matthews’ The Houston Monarch Story — a tribute to the monarch butterfly and a symbol of beauty, migration, and renewal; • Tim Glover’s Liberty Tree — crafted from reclaimed materials and designed to echo and adapt to its natural surroundings; • Paul Kittelson’s Cowboy Shiva — a playful sculpture celebrating Texas heritage with humor and joy; • Jebhani Vargas’ Blue Heron — bridging wildlife and imagination in harmo-
Tim Glover’s Liberty Tree — crafted from reclaimed materials and designed to echo and adapt to its natural surroundings.
Photo by Tanja Peterson
Photo by Scott Julian
Paul Kittelson’s Cowboy Shiva — a playful sculpture celebrating Texas heritage with humor and joy.
Photo by Tanja Peterson
Jebhani Vargas’ Blue Heron — bridging wildlife and imagination in harmony with the park.
ny with the park; • Morgan Robinson’s Rip Curl — a quiet, contemplative piece inviting reflection within the landscape; • Carter Ernst’s American Icon Redressed: Sitting Dog — a patchwork dog sculpture that appears to have wandered into the park to find its forever home; and • Jaymes Earl’s The Geometree — a sculptural tree form whose structure and presence blend seamlessly with the natural envi-
Photo by Tanja Peterson
Morgan Robinson’s Rip Curl — a quiet, contemplative piece inviting reflection within the landscape.
ronment. “Working with Don Aron on this project has been a deeply creative and community-minded collaboration,” said Tanja Peterson, executive director of Redbud Arts Center. “His commitment to bringing art into shared public spaces is inspiring, and with Houston Parks Board’s support, these sculptures can now be enjoyed. Wiess Park offers a place where neighbors can encounter beauty in their everyday routines, and that is the
Michelle Matthews’ The Houston Monarch Story — a tribute to the monarch butterfly and a symbol of beauty, migration, and renewal.
Photo by Tanja Peterson
Carter Ernst’s American Icon Redressed: Sitting Dog — a patchwork dog sculpture that appears to have wandered into the park to find its forever home.
true power of public art.” The Art Trail was led by HPB board member Don Aron and developed in collaboration with local residents and supporters, including HPB and Redbud Arts Center. Funding from Stablewood HOA, Bluestem Equity, The Houstonian Estates and The Redstone Group made the exhibition possible. All seven sculptures are available for private purchase through Redbud Arts Center. “Working to bring the Art
Photo by Tanja Peterson
Jaymes Earl’s The Geometree — a sculptural tree form whose structure and presence blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
Trail to Wiess Park has been a deeply rewarding endeavor for me,” said Don Aron, longtime officer and member of HPB. “I wanted to bring art into a space where people naturally gather and connect, and seeing these sculptures come to life in the greenspace has been incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful to the artists, our supporters and HPB for helping make this vision a reality for the community.” Wiess Park, at 300 North Post Oak Lane, is a 16-acre
greenspace that has served as HPB’s headquarters since 2009. The park’s naturally forested trails provide a peaceful retreat where art becomes part of the landscape of everyday life. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition at their own pace to enjoy the colors, textures and stories behind each sculpture. The Art Trail at Wiess Park celebrates artistic talent while enhancing the park experience for the community.