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Saturday, January 27, 2024 • Vol. 69 • No.4
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Leader area scores well on HISD report cards
(713) 686-8494 news@theleadernews.com www.theleadernews.com Facebook/FromTheLeader
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By Charlotte Aguilar For The Leader In an overall bleak picture showing more than half of district schools with grades of D or F, Houston ISD’s report cards, released Tuesday, showed Leader-area campuses passing easily. Four local schools — Field, Harvard, Helms and Oak Forest elementary schools — received A grades. HISD is using the ratings — based on its own interpretation of state data
— to add up to 40 additional campuses to the New Education System (NES) school reform program in the 2024-25 school year. Leader-area schools on the NES list are Crockett ES in Sawyer Heights, with a score of 63 and a D grade, and Stevens ES in the Oak Forest area, scoring 54 and failing. A third campus, Love ES in the Heights, is on the “consideration” list, with a 66/D grade — meaning it can opt-in to the program. Twenty-eight schools were origi-
nally designated NES schools when the state took over HISD last June, and another 57 schools voluntarily entered the program, which provides a rigid instructional framework and strict oversight of teaching methodology and campus management. HISD had promised it would name the new NES schools before families have to make decisions about where to send their children next year. Deadline for school choice applications for special programs and mag-
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City of Houston now accepting leadership training applications
Page 2
net schools are due Feb. 23. Despite the Texas Education Agency (TEA) being prevented from releasing its own 2022-23 accountability ratings due to litigation, districts were given the data and methodology used by TEA, and HISD used that information to create its own reports on each school. The final tally showed 35 campuses with A grades, 58 graded B, 52 with passing C grades, 65 with D grades, and 58 failing. See NES P. 4
Houston goes batty with freezing temps: Stunned bats are rehabbed, released By Rubena Gracia The Leader News Contributor
William B. Travis Foundation Spring Gala
Page 3
Houston Dairymaids: Everyone, smile and say cheese!
Page 4
Photo by Lisa Morales
The Canary, the newest food and fun destination in the Heights, adds a splash of color to the Oak Forest community.
The Canary: Oak Forest’s newest hotspot with poolside bliss
Houston Saengerbund celebrates Karneval with Kinderfasching for children
By Lisa Morales The Leader News Contributor
Page 5
Local roads get pedestrian safety boost
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The Oak Forest neighborhood just got a vibrant splash of color with the arrival of The Canary, a new Bar + Pool + Patio + Kitchen destination that is turning heads and making waves in the community. The two-story, bright yellow building nestled at 963 Judiway St. is impossible to miss and promises a unique experience for locals and visitors alike. Co-owner Kristen Genoway shares the exciting journey of transforming a Heights bungalow into the full-service haven that is now The Canary. The process took two and a half years due in
part to permit delays but finally in December 2023 the bar had its soft opening. Much more than a cocktail spot, this neighborhood jewel is already curating a loyal following with sporting event watch parties, daily drink specials, food trucks, and the pièce de résistance—a refreshing onsite pool. Genoway, residing a mere three minutes away, emphasizes the importance of creating a place that feels like a true neighborhood oasis bringing together community, cocktails, and cool waters in the heart of Oak Forest. Even the choice of the name “The Canary” is deliberate, evoking the image of a cherished pet from one’s childhood. The organic growth of
When the Houston weather forecast predicts freezing temperatures, meteorologists remind us to protect the three Ps – pets, plants, and pipes. But some local wildlife also needs protection. Bats, for instance. If the temperature falls to 25 degrees or below, bats can become “stunned” and fall onto the ground or water below. During recent cold weather spells, the Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center helped rescue and rehabilitate thousands of stunned bats from around the Houston area, including from the Waugh Drive Bridge, the Watonga Drive Bridge, and other colonies. “From Tuesday, January 16 to Friday, January 19, the 17-person bat team at Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center collected and assisted more than 2,500 Mexican free-tailed bats from several bat colonies across the Houstonarea including Waugh Street Bridge, Pearland, Spring and Sugar Land,” said Kelsey Malan, Wildlife Deputy Director of the Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center. Once collected, wiildlife technicians performed triage, provided fluids, warmed the bats in incubators, and See BATS P. 3
The Canary is evident as neighbors, who initially observed the construction, have become friends and the bar’s first patrons. Genoway notes that the growth has been slow and steady, fostering a sense of community right from the start. The interior of The Canary boasts a posh entry, comfortable seating, patio, and a beautifully polished wood bar. While the kitchen is yet to open, food trucks are already on-site, offering a diverse range of culinary delights, from breakfast tacos to steak dinners. The owners have taken care to insulate the walls thoroughly, ensuring
Photo courtesy of Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center
Bats3: A wildlife technician rehabilitates a stunned bat.
See THE CANARY P. 3
TxDOT’s I-10 feedback session yields more pushback Introducing: Joanna Wachowiak-Finlaison and new column, Pet Puzzle
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THE INDEX. People ���������������������������������������2 Topics ����������������������������������������6 Classifieds ���������������������������������7 Local Culture �����������������������������8
By Charlotte Aguilar For The Leader The Texas Depar tment of Transportation unveiled its new plans for sweeping changes along I-10 from Heights Boulevard to I-45 in a public meeting Jan. 17, but some opponents weren’t swayed by design concessions made since their last feedback and continue to question the impact of and need for the proposed $347 million project. The public has until Feb. 1 to comment on the updated plans, with construction expected to begin early next year that will involve elevating main and HOV lanes and creating floodwater detention. “It’s a mixed bag,” said Fred Lindner of Norhill in the Heights, a leader in the Save White Oak Bayou coalition of neighborhood groups after viewing a series of easels with design renderings and
We empower people to thrive. S TE LL A R . BA N K NM L S # 4 5 1 3 1 2
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The re-worked plans for connecting pathways along the bayou and under I-10 drew heavy interest at the open house.
chatting with project engineers. “They’re not cutting down the woods anymore, but the managed (HOV) lanes are higher
than before, and overall this doesn’t make sense for the cost benefit.” In a prepared video and handout mate-
rials, TxDOT makes its case for an elaborate re-working of the 1.8-mile stretch of I-10 as a “resiliency project” — one designed to accommodate current state and federal standards and updates to aging pavement and other infrastructure. In its justification, the agency also emphasizes the impact of past flooding from White Oak Bayou onto I-10 — stretching back to 1992 — on emergency services and, as a major freight route, on the economy and regional supply chain. “Since 2015, though, I-10 has been 99.85 percent flood-free,” counters Lindner. “They’re trying to make a case for resiliency, but there’s the visual impact and increased noise pollution and particulate matter that are still not being addressed.” “You Spoke and TxDOT Listened,” See I-10 P. 3
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THE PEOPLE. St. Pius X High School receives 22 nominations for musical production “Nunsense” From Community Reports
The Fine Arts department at St. Pius X High School is Looking to hire good 2001 Karbach Suite F proud to announce that the Houston, TX 77092For over 80 years, we’ve cared enough local people? Leader Gift Tommy Tune Awards program 713-694-4867 to think about verySt. worst. classifieds get great has the nominated Pius X High Buy SeLL trade Certificates School for 22 award recogniresponse and cost less Black Through Goldtornadoes, earthquakes, and tions for Nunsense, a hurricanes, musical than the daily paper. Guns & ammo more, Farmers production has been on the scene presented by helping the Licensed FFL/Class III Dealer Veritas Theatre in November people start rebuilding since 1928. No one wants 2023. to think about all the things that can go wrong. But For over 80 years, we’ve cared enough Production nominations For over 80 years, we’ve cared enough at Farmers, that’s what we’ve been doing to think about the very worst. include outstanding musical, for the to think worst. Forabout overthe 80very years, we’ve cared enough to think about the very worst. last Through tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, andyears. outstanding ensemble and outThrough tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, and 80 more,Farmers Farmers onscene the scene more, hashas beenbeen on the helpinghelping standing technical achievement. Through tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, people start rebuilding sincesince 1928. No oneNo wants people start rebuilding 1928. one wants and to about all the things that can gocan wrong. But helping more, Farmers has been on thego scene tothink think about all the things that wrong. But Individual nominations include at Farmers, that’s what we’ve been since doing for the No one wants people start rebuilding 1928. at Farmers, that’s what we’ve been doing for the last 80 years. outstanding lead for the full to years. think about all713-699-8669 the things that can go wrong. But today! last 80 Personal attention. Call at Farmers, that’s what we’ve been doing for the cast of five members, outstandPersonal attention. Call 713-699-8669 today! last 80 years. FOR PERSONAL ATTENTION Lane Lewis ing supporting, outstanding Personal attention. Call 713-699-8669 today! Lane Lewis 713-688-8669 TODAY! YourLewis LocalCALL Agent singer for two cast members, Lane Your Local Agent PersonalYour attention. 713-699-8669 today! 2200 North LoopCall Local Agent W. Ste. 136, outstanding dancer, outstandHouston, TX 77018 Lane Lewis Lane 2200 NorthLewis Loop W. Ste. North 136, LLewis@FarmersAgent.com 2200 Loop W. Ste. 136, Your Local Agent ing actor, outstanding director, Houston, TX 77018 Your Local Agent 2200 North Loop W. Ste. 136, LLewis@FarmersAgent.com outstanding music director, outHouston, TX 77018 2200 North Loop W. Ste. 136, Houston, TX77018 Submitted photo Houston, TX 77018 standing choreographer for two The St. Pius X student cast of “Nunsense”, with technical director, Ms. Angela Washenfelder and direcLLewis@FarmersAgent.com LLewis@FarmersAgent.com LLewis@FarmersAgent.com production members, outstand- tor of fine arts, Mr. John Magalhaes. ing lighting director for two production members, outstanding sound designer, outstanding scenic designer for two production members, and outstanding stage manager for the full stage production team. “We have a very talented group of thespians both on and off the stage that mostly led this production, so it’s a studentcentered achievement,” said John Magalhaes, director of fine arts. “They deserve these recognitions not only for their talent, but also for their endless dedication, commitment and love for the arts.” Nunsense tells the tale of the Little Sisters of Hoboken and their need to raise funds for burial services because the convent cook, Sister Julia, has accidentally poisoned a group of nuns. The sisters decide to put on a variety show and take over the auditorium of the school – currently set up for Grease – to entertain the audience for the fundraiser. This “habit-forming” musical comedy has won international Houston’s original acclaim for its hilarious script, “Hardwood Lumber Co.” quirky choreography and vivacious music. of high school musical theatre St. Pius X High School is a Heights is administered by the The Tommy Tune Awards pro- in the Greater Houston area. Dominican, Catholic co-edu- Roman Catholic Archdiocese gram (TTA) is part of the Theatre Nominations are adjudicated by cational college preparatory of Galveston-Houston to emUnder The Stars (TUTS) musical local volunteers from October that serves students in grades Over 100 species of hardwoods, softwoods and exotic woods in stock. theatre non-profit organization to March and finalists partici- 9 through 12. Also known power young men and women 70+ years of quality lumber and dependable service. and celebrates the educational pate in the awards ceremony on as SPX or St. Pius, the high in their personal and academNo job too large or too small value, artistry and community Thursday, March 28, 2024. school located in the Houston ic journey. New LoCatioN
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Complete Communities University: Spring 2024 Leadership Training call for applications From Community Reports
Application Deadline – Feb. 9, 5 p.m. The City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods (DON) invites aspiring leaders to apply for enrollment in the Complete Communities University (CCU) Spring 2024 leadership training course. The 8-week course is designed for emerging leaders committed to making a positive impact in their communities. The course will run March
13 to May 1, 2024, with classes to be held virtually and in person on Wednesdays from 6-8:30 p.m. Virtual classes will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, and in-person classes will be held at the City Hall Annex, 900 Bagby Street. The CCU curriculum focuses on strategies for promoting civic engagement to empower residents and revitalize neighborhoods. The course explores methods and techniques for engaging residents in civic activities, volunteer service, and government affairs as con-
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Applications will be accepted now through Feb. 9, 2024, 5 p.m. For the application form and more information, go to www.houstontx.gov/ neighborhoods/ccu.html. For questions, call 832-393-0887 or email CCUniversity@houstontx.gov.
The Leader • Saturday, January 27, 2024 • Page 3
THE CANARY, from P. 1
William B. Travis Foundation Spring Gala to benefit Travis Elementary School From Community Reports
Photo courtesy of The Canary
The Canary co-owner Kristen Genoway is ready to serve drinks, with a full menu soon to launch.
minimal disturbance to neighbors, while the versatile speaker system allows music to be concentrated in specific areas as needed. The Canary’s cocktail menu reflects the bar’s lively culture with drinks named Swipe Right, Resting Beach Face, and Expresso Self. In addition to creative cocktails, patrons can enjoy a selection of wine, beer, seltzer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Genoway began her journey in the bar and restaurant industry as a server and climbed the ranks into management. She believes those experiences have made her a better owner. “When you have had the benefit of working your way up the ladder in this industry you can better guild and lead your staff knowing that you have once stood in their shoes.” The soon-to-be-open kitchen and grill will offer tasty bites and “Kitchen Takeovers” featuring rotating local chefs
for a monthly culinary twist. Patrons are also eagerly awaiting the first summer in the bar’s on-site pool that will be open Thursday-Sunday until sunset during warmer months with an 18-and-up pool area and a splash pad for younger guests. Genoway hints at upcoming water sports, activities, and themed events around the pool. In the meantime, The Canary has plans for a Super Bowl Party followed by St. Patrick’s Day and Cinco De Mayo festivities. Currently, happy hour specials are a daily delight with recent chilly weather seeing the introduction of Hot Cocoa, Hot Toddy’s, and Hot Tea. The vibrant allure of The Canary is undeniable. Visit their website for hours and drink menu at https://thecanaryhou.com/ and follow them on socials @thecanaryhou for watch parties, food truck, and event info.
The William B. Travis Foundation, a nonprofit organization benefiting Travis Elementary School in the Woodland Heights will host its Spring Gala and Auction on March 1, at 7 p.m., at the Heights Villa. The auction works to raise funds that enhance the education and well-being of each student. “These donations are increasingly important as HISD schools continue to face funding pressure due to state and local budget cuts, and now the additional strain of learning gaps created by the pandemic,” said Ana Laws, board member and auction chair for the William B. Travis Foundation. “We need some help from the local community to make our event a success and continue to support Travis El-
ementary.” Are you a photographer, designer, or maker? Do you have a vacation home, or season tickets? Do you own a business? The foundation is seeking items and services for the Once Upon a Time Gala and Auction on March 1, 2024. To make a financial contribution, or to donate an item, please visit onceupon.cbo.io. One of the reasons Travis Elementary is such a fabulous neighborhood school is because of the Travis Foundation’s ability to fund initiatives, grant requests, and school infrastructure improvements,” Laws said. To learn more about the foundation’s Spring Gala or to check out business underwriting opportunities or sponsorships, visit https:// c b o. i o / b i d a p p / i n d e x . php?slug=onceupon.
Puppy Love Valentine’s Paw-ty for Dogs to be held Feb. 4 Join the fun on Sunday, Feb. 4, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Bayou Height Bier Garten, 3905 Washington Avenue, supporting local shelter animals. Professional photographer and kissing booth $20 donation (Steven Pedini Photographer) • Fashion contest with prizes @ 1pm • Doggie Valentines craft table (make a paw painting or paw valentine card) • Hot dog eating game 12-1pm • Shelter dog speed dating - meet adoptable puppies and foster dogs • Raffles • Vendors Free to attend! Proceeds benefit the Harris County Pets / Friends of CountyPets Heal A Heart program, providing free treatment for heartworm positive adopted dogs.
BATS, from P. 1 placed them in lightweight habitats with heating pads to complete their recovery. “After being rescued by the bat team, the bats were taken to the wildlife center placed in warming boxes and incubators, then administered IV fluids and then placed in torpor (hibernation-like state) until the temperature rises enough to safely release them back into the wild,” Malan said. “Sadly, despite Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center’s efforts to save every one of the cold-stunned creatures, 803 bats did not survive their falls from the bridges.” Malan explained that frigid temperatures cause the bats to go into hypothermic shock, lose their grip on the bridge, and fall to the ground, which can cause head injuries. “Part of the reason bats are getting stunned by cold is due to a lack of warm hiding spots,” she said. “Bridges are not typically suitable for bats to find warmth, as they lack the insulated spaces that bats prefer for roosting. Without access to these suitable hiding spots, bats may struggle to regulate their body temperature, making them more susceptible to the effects of cold weather.” A bat release was held Sunday evening, Jan. 21, at the Waugh Bridge just south of the Heights, as well as in other places around Houston.
“It was another successful release. Around 200 bats returned to their colony at Waugh Street Bridge. 1,655 Bats from the other locations in Pearland, Spring and Sugar Land have also been released back to their colonies,” Malan said. “We are grateful to the dozens of people in the community who came out to support and learn about why bats are so essential to our ecosystem.” Although eleven different species of bats live in the Houston area, the one most commonly found here is the Mexican free-tailed bat, also called the Brazilian free-tailed bat. The largest known colonies live along Buffalo Bayou, White Oak Bayou, Sims Bayou, and Halls Bayou. Bats eat insects – including mosquitoes – pollinate plants, and disperse seeds, all of which are beneficial to crops and to humans in general. There are approximately 250,000 bats at the Waugh Drive Bridge colony and approximately 100,000 at the Watonga Drive Bridge Bat Colony during the summer and early fall, although a fairly large number of bats remain through the winter. Many people enjoy watching bats take flight at dusk, called a bat emergence. The Watonga Drive Bridge Bat Colony is near Oak Forest and Garden Oaks along the
Photo courtesy of Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center
The Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center team collected 2,500 bats from colonies around Houston during the freeze in January 2024.
Photo courtesy of Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center
A Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center team member gathering stunned bats from underneath a bridge.
White Oak Bayou Greenway Trail at 4721 Watonga Boulevard. Park benches and grassy areas are available
for viewing. Educational information is located at the kiosk on the west side of the bayou. There is an ADA-
accessible viewing platform near the bridge next to the hike and bike trail, which can be reached from T. C. Jester and West 43rd Street on the southeast side and Pinemont Drive on the northwest side. The park is open year-round, and parking is available on the southbound side of Watonga Boulevard across from De Milo Drive. The Waugh Drive Bridge, just west of downtown, spans Buffalo Bayou between Memorial Drive and Allen Parkway. It offers three areas to see the bats– the viewing platform southeast of the bridge, the northeast bank of the bayou, and the sidewalk along the east side of the bridge. The sidewalk and viewing platform are ADA accessible. Educational information is available at the platform. Free “Bat Chats” are given on Friday nights from March through October starting 30 minutes before sunset. For a fee, you can contact Buffalo Bayou Partnership to reserve a seat on a Waugh Bat Colony Boat Tour from spring through fall for the opportunity to see the bat emergence up close. Before you plan a viewing trip, check the weather forecast. Although bats emerge at sunset, they typically will not emerge if the temperature is below 50 degrees or if it is raining. The Texas Parks and Wildlife website has a section called “Bat-Watching Etiquette.” Remember to stay
I-10, from P. 1 the presentation claims, saying it took feedback from more than 400 public comments during a similar plan-vetting in 2022 to make the following changes: The No. 1 concern, according to TxDOT, was noise, and the updated design doubles the height of rail barriers on elevated mainlanes and HOV lane bridges from three to six feet for sound management. Still, the agency said a traffic noise analysis of the proposal identified “traffic noise impacts along the project corridor” affecting about 12 percent of the modeled locations. Because the project site is in the floodplain, constructing sound walls is not an option. Reducing the proposed height of structures of main lanes over Studemont Street and of HOV lanes over Taylor Street and Houston Avenue, while
increasing the height of HOV lanes west of Houston Avenue and placing potential METRO Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes, a potential future project. Preserving the forested land to the northwest of I-10/ Houston Avenue that was originally targeted for destruction to create a detention pond. The pond has been moved to under the lanes in the updated proposal, and additional plantings of vegetation and trees have been added along the stretch. Connecting existing and proposed shared use paths (SUP) south of I-10. The session was well attended (TxDOT has not responded to The Leader’s request for public sign-in figures), and a quick survey by The Leader of the attendees showed a cross-section of residents and business inter-
out of the way of the bats and to keep your voice low. Do not expose bats to lights from flashlights, cameras, or cell phones. Never touch a bat if you find one on the ground. Either notify a site’s volunteers or contact a local animal control office, such as the Houston Humane Society Wildlife Center. There are other local areas to view bats, such as the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center near Memorial Park, and the Houston Zoo’s McGovern Children’s Zoo indoor exhibit. More information about bats and colonies is available from the City of Houston Parks and Recreation department and the Houston Parks Board. If you find a cold stunned bat or other wildlife in need, Malan asked that you please contact the HHS Wildlife Center Hotline at 713-4688972 to get advice on how to help, get help determining if an animal actually needs help, or ask general wildlife questions. To learn more about what to do in case of an emergency (especially if it is after hours), please visit houstonhumanewildlife.org/found-ananimal. The public can also help by supporting Houston’s only bat rehabilitation center with a monetary donation of any amount or sponsoring a muchneeded incubator at houstonhumanewildlife.org/onlinedonations.
The public can continue to study and react to the proposal online or by writing: TxDOT Houston District Office Attn: Advanced Project Development Director P.O. Box 1386 Houston, Texas 772511386 or emailing HOUPIOwebmail@txdot.gov
Texas Department of Transportation image
This graphic shows the differences west of Houston Avenue between the initial proposal and the changes made after earlier public feedback.
ests who felt directly impacted by the project, environmentalists from outside the area who
identified an interest in the bayou and recreation in the area, and at least two professionals
who said they were looking at potential work in conjunction with construction.
All comments must be received by Feb. 1. Questions can also be directed to Grady Mapes, TxDOT district program director, at 713-866-7040, or by email at Grady.Mapes@ txdot.gov.
Page 4 • Saturday, January 27, 2024 • The Leader
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Tuesday’s release by HISD also addressed teacher and administrative issues. It showed all teachers receiving a $2,500 bump in pay in the 2024-25 school year to reflect additional work days because of the longer school calendar which will be up for approval at the Feb. 8 board of managers meeting.
Driven Dairymaid: How Houston Dairymaids helped Houston love cheese By Holly Beretto The Leader News Contributor Lindsey Schechter wants Houstonians to eat cheese. More than eating it, however, she’s eager to have them discover it: its complexities, its flavors, its depth. And one of the ways the founder of Houston Dairymaids is doing that is through a weekly tasting of five cheeses at her Airline Drive storefront in the Heights. “It’s a way for us to have a conversation with you about cheese through our weekly specials,” she says, offering me a tiny plastic spoonful of Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam, an under-creamy cow’s milk cheese that has me thinking of smearing it on a crusty baguette. “People learn by comparing different cheeses, which is why we let them sample a few.” Schechter began the tastings as a way for customers to explore both cheese she keeps in stock and others she might consider bringing in. The storefront at 2201 Airline Drive evolved out of what was her business’ warehouse. Customers will find around 150 cheese in stock on any given day, meaning there’s a variety of cow, sheep and goat’s milk options, everything from cheddar to bleu to chevre and anything in between. Shoppers can come in for a little or a lot. She began her business in 2006, modeling it after Britain’s legendary Neal’s Yard, an outfit that traveled around the country to bring the cheeses of smaller producers to larger markets. Houston diners know that many menus around town sport Schechter’s carefully curated cheeses among their selections; they make appear-
For the love of cheese: Lindsey Schechter launched Houston Dairymaids in 2006.
ances at various farmer’s markets, too. “The Houston food community is amazing,” she says. “They have loved and supported our shop and our chefs and stuck with us.” Over the last 18 years, Schechter has grown her business, bringing cheeses from all over the state to the Houston market. She has a background in the food industry, having worked in restaurants before striking out as an entrepreneur. Today, her company is exactly what she envisioned. She has around a half-dozen employees who work at the store and connects with more than 40 cheesemakers around the state. Being in business for nearly two decades has taught her a lot.
“I’ve learned to be flexible,” she says. “That was especially true during the pandemic.” She lost a lot of restaurant business during that time due to closures. But, she was able to adapt her weekly tasting concept to fit those times. The weekly tasting, always popular among customers, became an individually plated sample of five cheeses. She also provided an information sheet on the cheeses being sampled. People loved it, and it became a jumping-off point for something else Houston dairymaids now offers: a monthly box of five cheese. “”It’s approximately 1.75 pounds of cheese on average, and we sell it for $55,” she said. The box comes with descriptions of the cheese, and
Photo by Jeff Fitlow
Schechter notes many customers opt to have it delivered right to their door. Those who want to come into the store will find a cozy spot where cheese is the star attraction. There’s also a small wine wall, which Schechter’s mother, an avid wine enthusiast, keeps stocked with cheese-friendly pairings from around the globe, providing a one-stop shop for wine-andcheese parties. In addition to building a rapport with her customers – Schechter says she’s now at a point where the children of some of her earliest supporters are bringing in their own little ones – she’s loved the relationships she’s built with cheesemakers. “It’s a very human endeav-
Photo by Kerrisa Treanor
At Houston Dairymaid’s storefront on Aldine Drive in the Heights, it’s all about the cheese.
or,” she says of cheesemaking, “and there’s very little mechanics involved. It’s so hard to do what they do, between weather and animal issues. They genuinely love this craft, and I’m so grateful I’ve been able to maintain this business.” By nature a small business dealing with other small businesses, Schechter says one thing she has to cope with customer disappointment when a cheese is out of stock. Pure Luck Farm’s June’s Joy, a goat’s milk chevre with honey, pepper and thyme, is a particular customer favorite; as a result, it’s often out as quickly as it comes in. When that
happens, the only thing to do is wait for more cheese to be made. “We talk to customers about that,” she says. “And we are always able to find something else for them to explore.” As she thinks about the future, Schechter isn’t interested in being bigger, but wants to find new ways to get better at what she does, whether it’s identifying new cheesemakers to spotlight or new restaurants to partner with. “I find cheese endlessly fascinating,” she says. And that’s a fascination she’s happy to pass on to her customers.
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The Leader • Saturday, January 27, 2024 • Page 5
Kinderfasching 2024: Costumes welcome From Community Reports
Hunger, appetite and cravings of hunger and lead to eating too much, too fast, or eating fast foods that are packaged and processed.
By Shana Tatum Shana Tatum RD, LD IFMCP www.shanatatumrd.com Many of us have felt what it’s like to be hungry, sense your appetite, or have an intense food craving. Hunger is the sensation we get when our stomachs are empty. Appetite is the desire to eat food. Cravings, well, they are something different. Harvard Health defines cravings as, “an intense urge to eat a certain food—and usually right away.” While hunger can be satiated by eating most any food, cravings are very specific to a type of food, like chocolate or ice cream. In addition, cravings can visit us at any time—we can crave a certain food even if we have enjoyed a delicious meal and don’t have any hunger cues. WHERE DO FOOD CRAVINGS COME FROM?
Food cravings can be specific and typically involve a desire for sweet, salty, or fatty foods. And they’re not the result of having a “sweet tooth,” or easy access to these types of foods. Nor does lack of willpower over our behavior direct the comings and goings of cravings. The causes of cravings are physiological in nature. Cravings can be hardwired into our brains and are regulated biochemicals in the body. According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are four types of food cravings: food euphoria, feeling stressed, lack of sleep, and day-to-day habits. Food euphoria happens when the brain turns on certain centers of neurons when the food we crave is consumed. In addition to these biochemicals that we know as the neurotransmitter dopamine, craveable foods stimulate the release of hormones that impact our metabolism, stress levels, and appetite. This euphoria feels like a great reward and naturally makes us want to perpetuate the feeling and we continue to eat that food, generating even more cravings for it. Day-to-day habits may also be at play with cravings. Sometimes, if we’re used to enjoying snacks when we feel a certain way (e.g., stressed, or tired) or are doing Certain activities, like watching your nightly show, or scrolling on IG) may be associated with snacking or specific foods. By engaging in these habits, we find ourselves automatically eating that craved food without much thought about consuming it. Lack of sleep can also in-
In conjunction with the German Institute for the Southwest, The Houston Saengerbund will be sponsoring a Kinderfasching on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Houston Sängerhalle in the Heights.
coffee and cake. Admission is $10 per person OR a max of $20 per family. Kinderfasching is sponsored by The Houston Saengerbund and German Institute for the Southwest. Get tickets online at simpletix.com/e/kinderfasching-tickets-157145.
DRINKING WATER
Shana Tatum
crease our cravings. A deficit in sleep impacts hormones by creating more stress increasing our desires for certain foods. Lack of sleep has also been shown to increase the hunger hormone ghrelin sending us looking for something to eat. This increase in ghrelin, cause a decreasing in the fullness hormone leptin. Feeling stressed can intensify food cravings even more. This is especially felt when stress is experienced over the long term. Increases of the stress hormones cortisol signals our “fight or flight” nature that sends us searching for food so we can gain the energy we need to fight or flee. Eating the craved food offers comfort from the stress or sometimes distracts us from it and helps us manage the stressful feelings. Other factors can contribute to these four causes of food cravings. Perhaps seeing or smelling a craveable food can create seeking behavior. Hormonal fluctuations that occur during the ovulatory cycle. Medications, like antidepressants are known to increase appetite. There has also been some research investigating connections between food cravings and our genes and gut microbiota. HOW TO CURB CRAVINGS
Denying hunger cues is not part of a smart plan for health. However, at times when we’re craving something right after a delicious meal could be a signal that you are having a craving and not hunger. For an example like this, there are a few ways you can try to help curb those cravings. BALANCE MEALS
Many times, patients report the afternoon cravings and fatigue. We then go back and talk about what they had for lunch. By eating meals that are highly nutritious and contain protein, fat, and fiber, you can feel full and fueled for longer . Avoiding skipping meals may also be a good strategy. The big trends with intermittent fasting can intensify feelings
It’s possible that thirst is what needs to be quenched and not hunger or cravings. Most of my patients do not keep up with their hydration needs. By staying hydrated throughout the day , it’s possible to reduce the distraction that comes from cravings. MAKE NUTRITIOUS SNACKS MORE CONVENIENT. Some people snack on convenience foods because they are convenient. It’s something fast to grab eat, without the time needed to prepare a more balanced snack. This is part of what makes eating a more balanced diet harder, it takes some effort. Deciding and engaging with discipline for your self-care is just as important as your time spent exercising and getting into a good sleep habit. With some forward preparation you can make nutritious foods just as convenient. Easy dips and spreads like nut butter, hummus, plain yogurt, salsa, or guacamole can satisfy cravings too. BE MORE MINDFUL.
Have you ever found yourself in the pantry thinking Why am I here? Often our cravings are a signal for a need that yet to be met. Perhaps it’s rest, hydration, a fear of getting started on a project, or even boredom. If we pause and reflect on this, even just a moment, it can be helpful. Your answer may be, yes, I am hungry and proceed to nourish. But, if a cup of hot herbal tea and a 15-minute break may also help, then turn on the kettle. If these ideas do not eliminate your cravings, then consider enjoying your craving, but maybe a smaller portion of it. There is a saying of what your resist persists, and only you know what is right in that moment. These feelings of food cravings are normal and common. Physiologically, stress, sleep, hormones, biochemicals, and neurotransmitters affect our cravings. Hunger, appetite, and food cravings are a complex system and do not result from a not lack of control or willpower. Now that we understand more about their causes, we can start smart strategies to guide them toward our health goals.
Houston Rose Society hosts annual pruning demonstration Feb. 11 From Community Reports The Houston Rose Society's annual pruning demonstration will be held outdoors, weather permitting, on Saturday, Feb. 11, at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church located at 1819 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77008. This is a great time to learn from Consulting
From Community Reports
as a priority for improvement. This grant will help to further achieve priority actions identified in the Vison Zero Action Plan and to create a safer environment for all users by implementing low-cost, high-impact strategies to improve safety, correct common risks and close network gaps in several vulnerable areas of Houston. The project directly supports the City of Houston’s Vision Zero Action Plan, and the funding will support improvements to four corridors for a total of
5.9 miles: • Airline Drive from 28th Street to North Main Street and at the intersections of Parker Road, Witcher Lane, Burress Street, Berry Road, Service Street, Link Road and Gibbs Road. • Bissonnet Street from Eldridge Parkway to Dairy Ashford Road. • Jensen Drive at Aldine Westfield Road and approximately 350 feet south of Tidwell Road. • Tidwell Road from Nordling
Rosarians how and when to prune your rose bushes. Participants are encouraged to bring roses they no longer want and are worthy of a new home to be pruned. The bushes should be dug up carefully with their roots wrapped in a plastic garbage bag. You can dig up the bush the morning of the meeting or prior day. Unwanted rose
bushes in pots are also accepted for this meeting. Immediately following the demonstration, there will be a drawing to give away all of the available rose bushes. Also, if you bring your gloves and pruning shears, participants are invited to assist in pruning the bushes located throughout the St. Andrew’s Church grounds.
Molina Healthcare of Texas to host Teen Empowerment Summit The three-session summit will include education on personal development, cyber safety and healthy relationships. WHAT: Molina Healthcare of Texas, together with the Houston Parks and Recreation
Four area streets share $10.1 million grant for pedestrian safety The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced that the Greater Nor thside Management District, in partnership with the International Management District, will receive $10.14 million in federal funding through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program for a Safe Streets Project in both Districts. The project corridors were chosen from the recently completed Northside on the Move Capital Projects Development Strategy, a collaborative community planning effort between the Greater Northside Management District and Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia.. Airline, Jensen and Tidwell were identified as a priority for, and by, the community to improve safety, access and connectivity, and drive economic development in the area and along these corridors. The International District completed a similar capital project development strategy in late 2022 where Bissonnet was selected
Kinderfasching: It's Mardi Gras. It's Karneval. It's a fun time for kids and families alike. Costumes welcome! There will be food and music, games and crafts, dancing and face painting. And prizes, of course! Parents are also invited to come check out the German Book Fair and enjoy
Street to Irvington Boulevard. Between 2017-2021, 1,025 crashes occurred on the project corridors, resulting in five fatalities and 21 serious injuries. Proposed improvements will promote safety to prevent death and serious injuries, including installing new or upgrading existing sidewalks and ramps, and upgrading traffic signals, as well as proven countermeasures such as pedestrian traffic signals, high visibility crosswalks, upgrading pavement markings, and implementing traffic calming road design changes. “This is a phenomenal opportunity for the Greater Northside and the Northside Community as a whole,“ states District Chair Jeanette Rash. “We are grateful for the support received for this project from Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, former City of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Commissioner Adrian Garcia, and State Senator Carol Alvarado and State Representative Armando Walle, along with community organizations. We look forward to creating safer corridors in our District, for our businesses, patrons, visitors and residents.“
Department, will host a teen empowerment summit over a three-week period, for teen girls (ages 11 – 17) and their mothers. All participants will receive a swag bag filled with personal hygiene items.
WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and Feb. 8 6 p.m.-7:30 pm. each Thursday WHERE: Highland Park Community Center, 3316 De Soto St., Houston, TX 77091 This event is free of charge.
Homeowners have payment options for property taxes on appreciating home values From Community Reports Texas homeowners may postpone paying the currently delinquent property taxes due on the appreciating value of their homes by taking advantage of a payment option called “residence homestead tax deferral” and filing a tax deferral affidavit at the Harris Central Appraisal District. This tax relief allows homeowners to pay the property taxes on 105 percent of the preceding year’s appraised value of their homestead, plus the taxes on any new improvements to the homestead. The remaining taxes are postponed – but not cancelled – with interest accruing at 8 percent per year. Once the homeowner files the tax deferral affidavit with the appraisal district, no taxing unit can start or continue a lawsuit for the deferred taxes as long as that person owns and lives in the home. When the homeowner no longer owns and lives in the home, the deferred taxes and interest become due. If the taxes are not paid, taxing units can then sue to collect the deferred taxes and interest. Additional penalties are possible.
If you have a mortgage, most mortgage companies require tax payments to be current so it is important to check with the mortgage company to make sure deferring taxes does not violate the terms of the deed of trust. “Homeowners should be sure they have applied for and received their homestead exemption. This easily can be done without cost through the Harris Central Appraisal District’s website or mobile app,” said Chief Appraiser Roland Altinger. Exemption forms and applications can be found on the appraisal district’s website, www. hcad.org, under the Forms tab on the top tool bar. A homestead exemption can provide a tax savings for the property owner and will reduce future tax burdens. For more information about deferring taxes on the appreciating value of your home, contact the Harris Central Appraisal District’s information center at 713-957-7800 or email help@ hcad.org . Information is also available on the Comptroller’s Property Tax Assistance Division’s website at www. window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/ proptax/.
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Page 6 • Saturday, January 27, 2024 • The Leader
THE TOPICS. Time to pop the campaign Are you ready for the 2024 elections? Probably not. Most people have other priorities, like keeping their jobs, hoping their kids’ college loans are paid by the taxpayers, leaky roofs and how to avoid jury duty. But it is our civic duty to vote, and you need to be one of the 6.5 percenters. (I shall explain in a moment.) In Texas, it’s easier to cross the Rio Grande than to vote – far less barbed wire, armed guards and watchtowers along the river. Our journey starts right away with the primaries: February 5 is the last day to register to vote. Then comes February 20: early voting begins. February 23 is the last day to request a mail-in ballot. March 1: early voting ends. March 5: Election Day. If no candidate receives a majority in the primary, the two candidates with the most votes will compete in a runoff election on May 28. To vote, you’ll need a valid photo ID which can be a state driver’s license, a Texas election identification certificate, a Texas personal identification card, a Texas license to carry a handgun, a U.S. military ID card with a personal photo, a U.S. citizenship certificate
Lynn Ashby Columnist
with a personal photo or a U.S. passport. Also a note from your doctor, get swabbed for a DNA check and promise to vote for Donald Trump. Cell phones, cameras, computers and other devices capable of recording video, images or sound may not be used within 100 feet of the polling place. Firearms and handguns are also prohibited. It’s not like you will find a mob at the polling places, because Texas’s voter turnout has always been dismal -- about the worst in the nation. To be fair to us, it’s hard to vote in Texas. Gov. Greg Abbott signed sweeping legislation that further tightened state election laws. One place per county to drop-off ballots. No 24-hour-voting, etc. In the 2016 presidential elections between Trump and Hillary Clinton, only 56 percent of registered Texas
voters – 46 percent of voting age -- bothered casting a ballot. Florida had 4 million fewer voting-age people than Texas, but 1-million more Floridians voted than Texans. Spring forward to Election Day in 2020 when there were 29.8 million Texans. Of these, 21.6 million were of voting age, and almost 17 million were registered voters, or 78 percent. But millions of these eligible voters stayed home. Only a little more than half (52.39 percent) of voting age Texans cast a ballot. Most votes went to Trump. He, received 5,890,347 votes to Biden’s 5,259126, or 52 to 47 percent. The other 1 percent voted for somebody we never heard of. (It gets no better locally. Only 16 percent of Houston voters cast ballots in the recent mayoral runoff.) Texas is a very red state. Texas Democrats last won statewide races in 1994. So we have eligible voters who have never lived with a Democratic state office holder. This year promises to be the same – a one-party sweep, with the GOP candidates winning handily, including the presidency, which means we missed out on a fortune. In the 2020 presidential race
THE WEEKEND. Thrills around town for Jan. 27-28, 2024 Compiled by Lisa Morales The Leader News Contributor WAG’N WORLD OPEN HOUSE
Who: Adults & families When: Saturday Jan. 27, 1-5 p.m. Where: 1616 W. 22nd St What: Tour the doggie daycare, boarding, and grooming facility at Wag’n World’s new Heights location. Giveaways, raffles, vendors and more. Cost: Free Info: facebook.com TREES FOR HOUSTON – REDBUDS HOUSTON ARBOR DAY PLANTING
Who: Adults & families When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 9 a.m.-noon Where: Tidwell Park – 9720 Camay What: Volunteer to plant trees in Tidwell Park Cost: Free Info/registration: signupgenius.com COVENANT GYM - SWEAT & SIP
Who: Adults When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 10-11 a.m. Where: Stomping Grounds 1207-1227 W 34th St. What: A refreshing outdoor workout on a beautiful 10,000-square-foot green space. Cost: Free Info: stompinggroundshtx.com
HOUSTON PLANT SWAP
Who: Adults & families When: Saturday, Jan. 27, noon-3 p.m. Where: Eureka Heights – 941 W 18th St. What: Plant swap, curated market, and plant vendors. Dog-friendly. Cost: Free Info: allevents.in/houston BOOMTOWN BRASS BAND
Who: Adults When: Saturday, Jan. 27, starts at 6:30 p.m. Where: EQ Heights – 1030 Heights Blvd. What: Live traditional New Orleans and 1920s jazz Cost: $20 Info: eventbrite.com SADDLE UP – CEDAR CREEK’S GUMBO COOK-OFF
Who: Adults & families When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 1-6 p.m. Where: 1034 W 20th St. What: Live music, mechanical bull, games, and Gumbo! Cost: $35-$125 Info: eventbrite.com EXCLUSIVE SCREENING “IN THE LONE STAR WARS STATE”
Who: Adults When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 6-9 p.m. Where: Houston Toy Museum – 321 W. 19th St. What: Film Screening followed by Q & A with filmmaker Alejandro Cabrera
Cost: $16 + fees Info: eventbrite.com R&B AND RIBS – HOUSTON EDITION
Who: Adults & families When: Sunday, Jan. 28, 3-8 p.m. Where: Space Cowboy – 100 W. Cavalcade What: A fun day party with good food and DJs. Cost: $10 Info: allevents.in/houston TEEN FRIENDLY – VALENTINE GNOME BLACKLIGHT PAINTING CLASS
Who: Teens age 12+ When: Sunday, Jan. 28, 4-6 p.m. Where: Painting with a Twist – 728 W 19th What: Just in time for Valentine’s Day, paint a blacklight gnome and make an optional candle Cost: $39-$49 Info: paintingwithatwist. com/studio/houston-heights HEIGHTS MERCANTILE FARMER’S MARKET
Who: Adults & families When: Sunday, Jan. 28, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: 714 Yale St. What: These markets host a variety of vendors that sell everything from locally sourced produce and grass-fed meat to neighborhood honey. Cost: Free Info: allevents.in
Body found following shed fire From Community Reports Houston police are awaiting autopsy results in the death of a man found after a fire was extinguished at 203 East 30th Street about 6:50 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 17. The identity and cause of
death of the male are pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. HPD Homicide Division investigators said that patrol officers responded to the address after Houston Fire Department emergency personnel located a
deceased male inside the burned remains of a detached shed. The investigation is pending the male’s cause of death, to be determined by an autopsy. Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713308-3600.
Dogs die in Independence Heights house fire From Community Reports Houston fire fighters responded to a house fire in the 4200 block of Europa St. on Jan. 15, shortly after noon. HFD officials said in a media release that fire fighters arrived
within four minutes of the call and found heavy smoke coming from the 1-story residence. They conducted an offensive attack and ventilated the roof. “Everyone was safely out of the home except for two dogs,” HFD officials said. “A primary search
was completed with the two dogs found. Firefighters attempted to unsuccessfully revive them.” According to HFD, the cause of the fire was a failure of electrical equipment or heat source. The residence reportedly sustained $120,000 in damage.
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alone, more than $1 billion was spent on TV ads, mostly to battleground states. Almost $9 out of every $10 spent on TV ads in the presidential race were invested in Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, North Carolina, Wisconsin and Arizona. Among the top recipients, Florida got $257.5 million and Pennsylvania received $195.7 million. And Texas? A lousy $7.3 million. Why bother with Texas? Texans are voting for one U.S. Senator, one of three railroad commissioners (who do you like to run our trains?), 15 state senators, seven State Board of Education members, three members of the Texas Supreme Court and three members of the Texas Courts of Criminal Appeals. For the Texas Court of Appeals (we have 14 of them), five chief justices and more other justices. You’ll also be able to vote for various representatives, both U.S. and Texas. And a partridge in a pear tree. Let’s peel this onion down. As of last July 31, the Texas population was 30,503,301. That doesn’t include the tens of thousands of illegal immigrants who have joined us, but they are non-citizens and
can’t vote. About one quarter (24.8 percent) of our citizens are under 18 years of age and can’t vote, either. We have a state prison population of 135,906. Felons can’t vote. So our voting-eligible population is 18,875,542. Here’s the kicker: because Republicans will out-vote Democrats in most, if not all, statewide races, the real winners and losers will be decided in the GOP primaries. In the 2020 GOP primary elections, just 2 million people voted, and that number will probably be about the same this time around. So they will decide our leaders. That means our fate will be determined by 6.25 percent of us. I find that depressing. Speaking of depressing, we have Section 1 of Article Two of the U.S. Constitution which, as you know, creates among things the Electoral College. The college has a lousy football team, but Jimbo Fisher is being considered as the new head coach. The Electoral College actually elects our President. The voters meet in December following the November elections and vote for the President. Each state gets one vote per Congressional district and two
more for their senators. Texas gets an overpowering 40 votes and in Texas, as in most states, it’s winner-take-all. So in the last presidential election those 5,259,126 Texans who voted for Joe Biden didn’t matter. Only Maine and Nebraska choose one elector per Congressional district and two for the ticket with the highest statewide vote. That prorates the tally which makes a lot of sense. But remember in the last presidential election when some Trump backers tried to substitute the honest Biden vote for their own slate of Trump electors. Talk about voter fraud. That ploy has to go down as one of the dumbest stunts in the nation’s voting history. I’d rank it right up there with re-electing Ken Paxton. Ashby votes 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. Publication is at the discretion of the editor.
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Page 8 • Saturday, January 27, 2024 • The Leader
Art Valet: They’re all heart at The Whimsy Artisan Boutique Mitch Cohen Art Columnist
The Whimsy Artisan Boutique will present Corazón: A HeART Gallery At The Whimsy Artisan, 123 W 18th St., Suite E, on Saturday, January 27th, from 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm. This one-day-only art show features up to 30 heart-themed artworks by 20 artists. Visitors can mix and mingle with artists, enjoy refreshments, a photo booth, and explore the burgeoning small business neighbors in The Heights Common Market space. If you are not familiar with The Whimsy Artisan, an absolute Houston gem in Houston’s art scene, I’ll fill you in, from my perspective. I met Jessica Carlos, the owner of Whimsy, probably at Discovery Green Flea around 2011. At the time Carlos had been running her business CultGrrrl Creations, selling her original and, might I add, whimsical crochet dolls. Carlos attended many markets and joined First Saturday Arts Market in 2014, and opened her storefront in 2018. A celebration is being planned now for The Whimsy Artisan’s sixth anniversary. In an Art Valet interview about her grand opening in 2018, I asked what motivated her to open a storefront, knowing the challenges. “It was just a natural progression for me. It had always been a far away goal of mine to have a very small part of the universe to showcase my wares,” Carlos said. “After six years of creating, promot-
Submitted photo
Anna Hazel’s “Caged Heart” on view at Corazón: A HeART Gallery At The Whimsy Artisan.
Submitted photo
CultGrrrl Creations “Protect Innocence” on view at Corazón: A HeART Gallery At The Whimsy Artisan.
ing, setting up, selling, tearing down, and doing it all over again once or twice a month, it was finally time to set my roots in somewhere.” The Whimsy Artisan is in a retail shopping center called The Heights Common Market, on the northeast corner of Yale St. and 18th St. in Houston. The tenants are small creative businesses. The Whimsy space is a mere 400 square feet; however, there are nearly 200 artisans represented by Carlos. In a phone call, Carlos joked that she’s the Tetris queen, referencing a video game puzzle. The space is not overwhelming; however, Carlos managed the layout so visitors can see everything. This doesn’t guarantee you’ll get out in a timely fashion! I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that I call Jessica and her husband Luis good friends. They have big hearts; hosting a heart-themed art show is a nobrainer for them! At Corazón: A HeART Gallery, expect to find painted hearts, glass, stuffed animal
art (likely with a macabre twist), and there’s even a mannequin entry. To enter the gallery space, enter through The Whimsy Artisan at 123 W 18th St. The Whimsy has two new neighbors at the Heights Common Market that will be open Saturday, EC Blooms & Co. floral shop (IG @ecbloomsofficial) and Stateline Designs, a branded t-shirt company. Stateline Designs (IG @statelinedesigns), is owned by Ellyse Espinoza, also founder of HTX Boss Babes, a women-focused festival. Stateline is hosting a soft opening for Stateline Designs Friday and Saturday with a grand opening celebration, Sunday, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. Find The Whimsy Artisan online at thewhimsyartisan. com and on Instagram at instagram.com/thewhimsyartisan Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market and The Market at Sawyer Yards. Visit his website at ArtValet.com
Submitted photo
Beehives and Bouffants “Roulette” on view at Corazón: A HeART Gallery At The Whimsy Artisan.
Submitted photo
Kate Hype Works on view at Corazón: A HeART Gallery At The Whimsy Artisan.
Pet Puzzle How do you keep a dog from jumping up on you or guests? Welcome to the inaugural edition of the Pet Puzzle column! I’m Jo, and I’m your friendly neighborhood dog and cat trainer and behavior expert. Each month, I'll tackle your pet-related questions. Let's dive into our first inquiry: “How do you keep a dog from jumping up on you or guests? Mine are obsessive about it. There's two of them and, while not aggressive, they make it impossible to walk through the door!” This is such a common complaint! While jumping is a normal dog behavior, it can be bothersome and sometimes dangerous. There are many ways to help dogs to be polite with their greetings, but here are two easy suggestions. Quick fix. Keep some treats by the front door. Before your dog can jump on you or a guest, throw some treats away from
Joanna
WachowiakFinlaison Pet Behavior Columnist
the door, to redirect their attention. This will move them away from the entrance and keep them busy while you or a guest comes in. Searching for treats will also calm your dog down a bit and lower their excitement. Some tips: • Toss treats before the dog jumps to avoid rewarding the behavior. • If you always toss treats in the same area, you will see that your dog will start moving there every time someone comes in. They will have learned that this is a good place to be when the door opens!
Training. This will take some time and practice. Set up practice sessions – first just with you and then with other members of the family or friends. Install a baby gate or put another barrier in place, so your dog can’t jump when you walk in the door. Wait for the initial excitement to subside. Stay neutral and calm, you don’t have to say anything. When your dog has all four paws on the ground, give them some love – having an opportunity to greet you is the reward! Stay behind the gate, so if (when) your dog starts jumping again, you can take a step back. You decide what “calm” means to you, considering your dog’s age and level of excitement. Sitting down may be too much of an ask for a very excited puppy. Allowing him to pace, twirl or run to get his favorite toy will
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let you achieve a training success faster. You can combine both methods. Use the quick fix outside practice sessions to reinforce calm behavior during arrivals. Have a dog that jumps out of happiness? Try these suggestions and let me know how it went! Have a question I can answer next month? Submit it to info@highfiveanimaltraining.com, with “Pet Puzzle” in the subject line. Be kind to yourself, your animals, and each other! Joanna Wachowiak-Finlaison is the owner of High Five Animal Training and a certified dog and cat trainer as well as a behavior consultant based in the Heights. Please submit your pet behavior questions via email to info@ highfiveanimaltraining.com.
Photo by Madison Avery/Madison Avery Studio
Joanna Wachowiak-Finlaison is a certified pet trainer and behavior consultant based in the Heights.
Meet Joanna WachowiakFinlaison, The Leader's new pet behavior columnist By Stefanie Thomas editor@theleadernews.com How do I keep my puppy from chewing up every shoe in sight? How do I keep my dog from barking for no reason? Why does my cat poop outside the litter box? Meet Joanna Wachowiak-Finlaison, owner of High Five Animal Training! Joanna is a certified dog and cat trainer as well as a behavior consultant based in the Heights. With a wealth of experience spanning various species such as dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, goats, chickens, and even a goldfish, Joanna offers personalized training and behavior consultation sessions for pet parents residing inside the loop. Qualifications & Associations • Certified Professional Dog Trainer • Certified Cat Behavior Consultant • Certified Control Unleashed Instructor • Fear Free Certified Professional – Trainer • International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants Member • Pet Professional Guild Member • Shock Free Coalition Member
Look for Joanna's monthly column in The Leader, online and in print! Submit your pet behavior questions via email to info@highfiveanimaltraining.com.