Heights - River Oaks - Montrose Edition | December 2023

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Heights River Oaks Montrose Edition VOLUME 5, ISSUE 9 DEC. 8, 2023JAN. 11, 2024

Members of the Houston City Council met Nov. 15. A ballot proposition approved by voters Nov. 7 will provide more power to council members to place items on the city’s weekly agendas.

SHAWN ARRAJJCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Election results to bring new dimensions to Houston governance

say in regional planning eorts; however, open- ended ballot language, an upcoming negotiation process and complex legal factors cloud what may come from the voter-approved change.

Council members more power to place items on the council’s weekly agendas, moving away from the existing system where only the mayor can set agenda items. The second proposition could give the city more

BY SHAWN ARRAJJ

Houston voters passed two ballot propositions during the Nov. 7 election that stand to have an impact on regional planning and city governance. The rst proposition will give Houston City

CONTINUED ON 26

Also in this issue

Impacts: Surouse reopens in the Heights (Page 6)

Government: Counties prepare for ARPA deadline (Page 11)

Community: Local volunteering opportunities (Page 23)

Nonprofit: Skyfarm works with incarcerated youth (Page 28)

HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE where you need us

Convenient, easy-to-access locations for primary, specialty and emergency care We offer a full spectrum of care, including: • Primary care physicians for you and your family, providing personal care and service • Specialists with innovative treatments and customized programs for all conditions • Collaborative teams of experts using the newest technologies and latest research

THE HEIGHTS

MEMORIAL

610

WEST UNIVERSITY

BELLAIRE

HOUSTON METHODIST HOSPITAL

SOUTHSIDE PLACE

 Houston Methodist Hospital  Primary Care  Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

 Emergency Care  Breast Care Center  Specialty Care

To find care near you, visit houstonmethodist.org/central or call 713.790.3333 .

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

MONDAY, JANUARY 8 HOUSTON, TEXAS | NRG STADIUM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 – SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 ADMISSION FREE GEORGE R. BROWN CONVENTION CENTER

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 – SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 SHELL ENERGY STADIUM ADMISSION FREE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 DOWNTOWN HOUSTON

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 UNION STATION AT MINUTE MAID PARK

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6 GEORGE R. BROWN CONVENTION CENTER

COLLEGEFOOTBALLPLAYOFF.COM

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Shaheryar Khan Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning James T. Norman Jessica Shorten Lizzy Spangler Graphic Designers Jatziri Garcia Ellen Jackson Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White

Jay McMahon General Manager

Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Account Executive Blake Gomez Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt

Shawn Arrajj Senior Editor

Jason Culpepper Publisher

Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases hrmnews@communityimpact.com Advertising hrmads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

communityimpact.com @communityimpactnews

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.

Introducing Alfonso Tejada, LPC! Alfonso specializes in Anxiety, Relation- ships and many more issues. Immediately Available Weekdays and Weekends Available both in person and online Introducing Alfonso Tejada, LPC! Alfonso specializes in Anxiety, Relationships and many more issues.

Shop 24/7 WholeEarthProvision.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

CONTACT US FOR A FREE 15 MINUTE CONSULTATION Immediately Available Weekdays 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM in Sugar Land, TX CONTACT US FOR A FREE 15 MINUTE CONSULTATION

¡Hablo Español!

MOST MAJOR PPO INSURANCES ACCEPTED (AETNA, AMBETTER, ANTHEM/BCBS CIGNA, UNITED HEALTHCARE/OPTUM)

Most major PPO insurances accepted Aetna, Ambetter, Anthem/BCBS Cigna, United Healthcare/Optum

SHEPHERD - 2934 S. SHEPHERD POST OAK - 2501 POST OAK BLVD. RD VD SHEPHERD - 2934 S. SHEPHER

Is the wait-list too long for a licensed therapist to

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Impacts

W. 34TH ST.

W. 25TH ST.

Now open

290

610

20TH ST.

W. 18TH ST.

T. C. JESTER BLVD.

W. 11TH ST.

W. 6TH ST.

WHITE OAK PARK

WHITE OAK DR.

WASHINGTON AVE.

6 Mir on Cro sby The fashion retailer and luxury cowboy boot brand is run by sisters and Texas natives Lizzie Means Duplantis and Sarah Means. The shop offers cowboy boots and western wear with elements of avant-garde design and high fashion. The new venue features a vintage Spanish bar and a secluded custom design room. • Opened Nov. 17 • 3270 Westheimer Road, Houston • www.mironcrosby.com

16B

MEMORIAL PARK

SAWYER ST.

EDWARDS ST.

WAUGH DR.

BUFFALO BAYOU PARK

BUFFALO BAYOU

P K

610

16A

W. GRAY ST.

POST OAK BLVD.

527

KIPLING ST.

• Opened Oct. 29 • 1201 Caroline St., Houston • www.tomswatchbar.com

COMMENWEALTH ST.

W. ALABAMA ST.

RICHMOND AVE.

9 11 19

7 The Grand Nails of America The new nail shop spans 8,150 square feet and features a color wall with nearly 3,000 polish selections, making it the largest salon from the Houston-based beauty brand. Services include manicures, pedicures, waxes and

610

288

lash extensions. • Opened Nov. 12 • 5144 Richmond Ave., Houston • www.thegrandnailsofamerica.com

time James Beard Award-nominated chef Manabu Horiuchi, known as Chef Hori, and partner Yun Cheng. The sushi restaurant focuses on a Japanese specialty beef called wagyu, and sake, a Japanese rice wine, to complement dishes. • Opened Nov. 7 4 Thrive The clinic uses personalized treatment plans that can combine elements of traditional medicine alongside therapies that focus on aspects of daily life, such as sleep, mental health and nutrition. Techniques include stem cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma therapy, oxygen therapy and cryotherapy, among others. The clinic also offers anti-aging, weight management and hormone balancing services. • Opened Nov. 8 • 2701 W. Dallas St., Houston • www.katamihouston.com 5 Tom’s Watch Bar The bar, located facing the Toyota Center, is known for broadcasting a wide variety of sports, including professional and college games as well as emerging sports. Tom’s offers a selection of beer, craft cocktails and wine. Food options include elevated sports bar fare. • 802 W. 18th St., Houston • www.todayithrive.com

Now open

1 Clark’s Oyster Bar In addition to a skylit oyster bar, the venue features two patios, a private dining room and a centerpiece aquarium. The eatery’s menu includes favorites from the Clark’s concept—including East Coast and West Coast oysters, lobster rolls and daily fish specials—as well as new items that are unique to Houston, including an in-house bakery where staff makes bread for the restaurant. • Opened Oct. 23 • 3807 Montrose Blvd., Houston • www.clarksoysterbar.com/houston 2 MaKiin Lukkaew Srasrisuwan, who also owns Kin Dee in the Heights, runs the new upscale Thai restaurant, which is decorated with hand-painted and 3D murals depicting scenes from Thailand. The menu features multilayered dishes using recipes from both the northern and southern culinary regions of Thailand. • Opened Oct. 23 • 2651 Kipling St., Houston • www.makiinthai.com

8 Sunny Coffe e The new coffee bar concept was opened by DJ SUN, a record producer and DJ based out of Houston, inside the Montrose nightlight spot The Flat. Cruiser Coffee, a local roastery based out of Houston’s East End, runs the coffee program, offering classic espressos, specialty drinks, cappuccinos, cold brews, espresso martinis and pour-overs. Guests can also purchase brunch items made available by Cucharita. • Opened Nov. 18 • 1701 Commonwealth St., Houston • www.theflathouston.com 9 A lo Y oga The Los Angeles-based yoga apparel brand offers leggings, sweatpants, shirts, shorts, dresses and onesies. Other accessories include hats, sneakers, yoga mats, bags, socks and hair accessories. The new store can be found on Level 1 of The Galleria mall, near Galleria Financial Center. • Opened Nov. 16 • 5085 Westheimer Road, Houston • www.aloyoga.com

3 Katami The sushi-focused concept comes from the four-

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ASIA ARMOUR & SHAWN ARRAJJ

Now open

In the news

10 Mi Co cin a The eatery is known for its brisket tacos and Tex-Mex staples, including enchiladas, tamales, seafood dishes and brunch options. A bar offers a selection of margaritas, including the Mambo Taxi, made with silver tequila, lime juice and housemade sangria. • Opened Nov. 29 • 4410 Westheimer Road, Houston • www.micocina.com

15 Surfhouse With roots that date back to the 1960s, the surf and skate shop Surfhouse is back up and running in the Houston Heights under new ownership. The shop’s wares include a range of surfing and skating gear and apparel as well as exclusive Surfhouse-branded hats

and T-shirts, and an expanded women’s section. A grand opening celebration takes place Dec. 9.

• Reopened in October • 215 E. 11th St., Houston • www.dot.cards/surfhouse

11 Amir i The luxury brand opened a store in The Galleria mall in late October on the mall’s second level, near Neiman Marcus. It offers menswear, womenswear, children’s clothing and accessories with Americana and California lifestyle design elements. • Opened Oct. 20 • 5015 Westheimer Road, Ste. A3401, Houston • www.amiri.com

18 The Mexican The Dallas-based restaurant concept will offer Mexican heritage recipes with bold flavors and high- quality ingredients. The restaurant will occupy a 10,000-square-foot space in the Central Plaza of Four Oaks Place. • Opening early 2026 • 1300 Post Oak Blvd., Houston • www.themexican.com

Houston metropolitan area. Corcoran offers services to individuals who are buying or selling homes. • Opening this fall

• 2000 Ella Blvd., Houston • www.corcoranprestige.com

16 Maven Coffee + Cocktails After debuting his new coffee and cocktails concept in October at the Toyota Center, Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. now has plans to open new locations along Washington Corridor and on Allen Parkway. Maven offers specialty coffee drinks—such as carajillos, frozen espresso martinis and cold brews—as well as craft cocktails, such as gin and tonics, Tajin-

Expansion

Coming soon

19 G uc ci The Galleria’s outpost is undergoing a renovation and expansion. The Italy-based brand offers clothing, leather goods, jewelry and eyewear. It will reopen as a two-story boutique in fall 2024, and guests can visit a temporary space over the holiday season on Level 2 near the Westin Oaks Hotel and Neiman Marcus. • Reopening fall 2024 • 5015 Westheimer Road, Levels 1-2, Houston • www.gucci.com

12 Le o’ s The upscale steak and seafood restaurant will open in a 5,100-square-foot space that will feature private dining rooms and a large outdoor dining space. It will serve dinner, lunch and brunch. • Opening spring 2024 • 2009 W. Gray St., Houston • www.leosriveroaks.com 13 Medium Rare The Washington, D.C.-based restaurant specializes in French-influenced steak and frites. The dinner menu will feature a three-course prix fixe meal—priced at just under $30—with a mixed-green salad, artisan bread, hand-cut fries and a Coulotte steak topped with a “secret sauce” that has hints of mustard and cracked pepper. • Opening spring 2024 • 3201 Louisiana St., Houston • www.mediumrarerestaurant.com 14 Corcoran Prestige Realty The business, part of Corcoran Group LLC, will be owned and run by James Krueger and will serve the

rimmed margaritas and old fashioneds. A Thompson Houston hotel location • Opening in December • 1717 Allen Parkway, Houston • www.mavencoffeecompany.com B Silver Street Studios location • Opening in first quarter 2024 • 2000 Edwards St., Houston • www.mavencoffeecompany.com

In the news

17 The Hair Shop The national high-end extensions and educational beauty business will sell salon-grade, tape-in hair extensions; ready-to-wear hair, such as wigs, bangs and ponytails; and tools and accessories. The Hair Shop also provides educational services—including an in-person Extension Master Class that covers seven of the brand’s extension techniques. • Opening first quarter 2024 • 3641 Westheimer Road, Houston • www.thehairshop.com

20 Red Lion Pub Pub owners celebrate the venue’s 20-year anniversary in November. Founded in November 2003 by Craig Mallinson, Red Lion Pub serves as a refuge for British expats seeking reminders of home as well as anyone who appreciates the vibes of traditional British pubs.

• 2316 S. Shepherd Drive, Houston • www.redlionpubhouston.com

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Transportation

BY SHAWN ARRAJJ & MELISSA ENAJE

TxDOT reopens ramp at Loop 610, I-69 interchange Crews with the Texas Department of Transpor- tation reopened a key ramp at the Loop 610 and I-69 interchange Oct. 29 as they work toward full completion of the project in mid-2024. The main takeaway The connector ramp from southbound I-69 to KEY: Ramp from southbound I-69 to southbound Loop 610 1 Southbound I-69 exit ramp to Chimney Rock Road 2

METRO completes bridge over I-10 The completion of a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge was unveiled on Oct. 17 at the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County’s Northwest Transit Center. The big picture The 14-foot-wide bridge crosses over 17 lanes of the Katy Freeway. The project provides a new connection between METRO’s transit center to Memorial Park and surround- ing neighborhoods.

610

southbound Loop 610 reopened in late October after being closed since late 2022, TxDOT officials said. Crews also reopened all southbound I-69 lanes at the interchange as well as the southbound exit ramp from I-69 to Chimney Rock Road. The big picture The $259 million project has been under construc- tion and causing lane closures since 2017. It entails the demolition of all one-lane connector ramps between I-69 and Loop 610 in southwest Houston and rebuilding two-lane connector ramps in their place. The goal, officials said, is to improve safety and mobility by increasing sight distances and

mitigating weaving, or when drivers quickly move back and forth between lanes. A look ahead Moving forward, work on the project will include demolishing and rebuilding the connector ramp from northbound Loop 610 to northbound I-69.

Northwest Transit Center Shared-use bridge

610

MEMORIAL PARK

Whatever happens in our community, we’re here, ready to serve. Providing Level I trauma care at Ben Taub Hospital for people experiencing the worst day of their lives. Reaching out to families struggling to find or afford healthy food. Offering the gold standard in nursing at our Magnet®-recognized Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital. Treating everyone with respect, compassion and gratitude for giving us the opportunity to care for them, work with them, know them. You may not know our name. And that’s okay.

YOU’LL KNOW US BY THE WORK WE DO.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY APRIL KELLEY

Streak of daily traffic fatalities reaches 23 years in Texas

Nov. 7 marked 23 years of daily traffic fatalities on Texas roadways, according to the Texas Depart- ment of Transportation. The gist According to TxDOT, Texas has not had one day without a traffic fatality since Nov. 7, 2000. On average, the state sees 10 deaths on Texas road- ways each day. As of Dec. 1, 3,743 fatalities have occurred as a result of 3,377 fatal crashes, according to TxDOT’s Crash Records Information System. A total of 4,481 traffic fatalities occurred in 2022 in Texas, down 16 from the 4,497 that occurred in 2021, according to TxDOT. Traffic fatalities, however, were higher in 2022 than they were in 2020, which saw 3,896 total traffic fatalities. Background TxDOT launched its #EndTheStreakTX cam- paign Nov. 15, 2016, to raise awareness of daily

5K 4K 3K 2K 1K 0 Traffic fatalities 2003-2023

*AS OF DEC. 1

17.24% increase from 2003-2022.

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

traffic fatalities and to encourage safe driving, with the goal of ending the daily streak of deaths. TxDOT asks all Texans to: • Make the best and safest decisions behind the wheel. • Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

• Always obey traffic laws. • Always wear a seat belt.

• Post pictures on social media with a download- able sign using the hashtag #EndTheStreakTX. • Share personal stories on social media of loved ones who died in a crash using the hashtag #EndTheStreakTX.

INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ARTS 5115 FANNIN ST, HOUSTON, TX

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION

Property Highlights • Exceptional design and finishes throughout • Easy access to Texas Medical Center, I-69/ US 59, State Highway 288 and Main Street • Conveniently located on the METRORail • Full structured visitor and employee parking • Direct elevator access

• Building and/or monument signage opportunity • No medical use restrictions • Large and efficient floor plates • On-site management • LEED Certified • Physician investment opportunity • Ability to accommodate another Ambulatory Surgery Center

2,000-60,000 SF MEDICAL OFFICE FOR LEASE

from garage to all floors • Shared conference & training facilities • Stunning rooftop terrace

Brandy Bellow Spinks Senior Vice President +1 713 577 1642 | brandy.bellow@cbre.com

2023 HOUSTON BUSINESS JOURNAL LANDMARK AWARD FOR MEDICAL

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

CANDLELIGHT SERVICES – SUN, DEC 24 THE LOOP CAMPUS @ 2P • 4P • 6P DOWNTOWN CAMPUS @ 9:30A • 11A Christma s Eve AT HOUSTON’S FIRST

TWO OPTIONS IN THE HEART OF HOUSTON!

SUNDAYS @ 9:15A, 11A & 5P 7401 KATY FREEWAY THE LOOP CAMPUS DOWNTOWN CAMPUS SUNDAYS @ 9:30A & 11A 1730 JEFFERSON STREET

GREGG MATTE, PASTOR • HOUSTONSFIRST.ORG

Emergencies happen. We’re right here when they do. A health emergency is something most of us would rather prevent than plan for. But when you need medical care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. As your community partner, Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center is your direct path from feeling scared or uncomfortable to feeling better. Get to know more about our ERs before an emergency strikes. Find your nearest location at StLukesHealth.org/Emergency .

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY MELISSA ENAJE & JESSICA SHORTEN

Local governments are now looking to obligate and use any remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds before an upcoming December 2024 federal deadline. Counties received lump distributions of federal funding in 2021 to ll public revenue losses, invest in broadband and other infrastructure projects, and provide additional pay for essential workers, according to the U.S. Department of Treasury in a news release. Three of the counties which received funding in the Houston area include: • Harris: $915.5 million • Montgomery: $117.9 million • Fort Bend: $157.6 million Any funding not obligated by December 2024 and spent by the end of 2025 must be returned to the U.S. Treasury. County ocials must decide how to use remaining funding and continue supporting pandemic-era programs and employees. Counties balance ARPA shortfalls

ARPA funding allocations

Allocated

Unallocated

AS OF NOVEMBER

Harris County

Montgomery County

Fort Bend County

$158M

$7.4M

$40M

$915.5M Total

$117.9M Total

$157.6M Total

$757M

$110.5M

$117.3M

Jobs and education Housing Health Justice and safety

County operations

Remaining

$227.3M

$192.8M

$141.5M

Harris County

$147.5M

$47.5M

$158M

$39.8M

$42.4M

$2.9M

Montgomery County

$13.2M $11.6M

$7.4M

County ocials divided ARPA funding to meet the prioritized needs of each county.

$56.3M

$27.7M

Fort Bend County

$31.8M

$1.4M

$40M

SOURCES: HARRIS, MONTGOMERY, FORT BEND COUNTIESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Zooming in

What the experts say

Stay tuned

One of the major expenses counties may need to cover are employees funded by ARPA. In all three counties, a number of employees were hired for positions on mental health teams, law enforce- ment and general infrastructure projects, such as a $21 million contract in Montgomery County to reopen a Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare center and a contract to expand the Harris County jail- based competency restoration program. During scal year 2023-24 budget workshops, all three counties outlined how to spend the remaining funds on new projects and infrastruc- ture eorts, while also considering the salaries which may need to be absorbed by the counties or eliminated once funding is depleted. According to ocials in each county, Harris County’s remaining funds are being targeted toward additional aordable housing eorts. Montgomery County reserved roughly $2 million to fund another year of salaries for ARPA-based employees. Fort Bend County pushed to help additional small businesses with employee funding and grants.

James Thurmond, professor at Hobby School of Public Aairs, said the one-time federal payout was historic for counties and provided an easy way to ll budget holes without requesting additional tax dollars. While ARPA funding was intended to help replace lost public sector revenue to counties, the responsibility of monitoring any budget decits with county funds fell to the counties themselves.

During the FY 2024-25 budget workshops next year, ocials with Harris and Montgomery counties said they will need to discuss employee and program needs to determine whether positions and programs have to be cut or if they can be sustained on county budgets or grants.

ARPA funding deadlines

December 2024: Deadline to allocate remaining funds December 2025: Deadline to spend remaining funds December 2026: Deadline to have all unused funding returned to Treasury

“You just need to be aware when you create a new demand or a new service, is it sustainable with your

current revenue? If it’s not sustainable, then what do you cut? “ JAMES THURMOND, PROFESSOR, UH HOBBY SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TREASURYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

Tired of the healthcare rodeo, Houston?

Easy in-person care

We have offices near where you work, live, and travel.* And onsite lab work means you don’t have to run all over town. Locations near you

We take the hassle out of healthcare. Easily book in-person appointments online and in the app for everything from the sniffles to mental health concerns.

Primary care that cares

Our providers and care team take the time to get to know you, so you feel seen, heard, affirmed — and cared for.

Video Chat with a provider in minutes or message our virtual care team from anywhere in the country with our app. It’s included in your membership at no extra cost. Unlimited 24/7 virtual care

*Out-of-network charges may apply

Save $100 off your first year of membership (normally $199) with code: HOULOVE Learn more at onemedical.com/hou-love Terms and conditions apply

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Display

BY HANNAH NORTON & JAMES T. NORMAN

TEA temporarily blocked from issuing new A-F accountability ratings

What changed?

School district officials have expressed concerns about several changes to the A-F system. The following information was shared by the Texas Education Agency.

Based on performance from the 2021-22 school year, about 15% of Texas schools would receive lower A-F ratings under the new system.

temporary injunction Oct. 26 to prevent the agency from assigning or adjusting the ratings. The TEA said it would appeal the injunction. If the agency appeals, the injunction would stand until a final determination is made, according to court documents. Kingsville ISD Superintendent Cissy Reynolds- Perez said districts would lose revenue if their accountability ratings drop, as some parents would send their children to other schools. “This ruling completely disregards the laws of this state and, for the foreseeable future, prevents any A-F performance information from being issued to help millions of parents and educators improve the lives of our students,” TEA spokesperson Jake Kobersky said.

A district court temporarily blocked the Texas Education Agency from issuing its new accountability ratings for public schools, siding on Oct. 26 with over 100 school districts who sued the agency calling the ratings “unlawful.” Some schools said updates to the TEA’s A-F accountability system would substantially lower performance ratings despite indications that performance has improved. A few weeks after the case—Kingsville ISD, et. al., v. Morath—was filed in August, the TEA announced Sept. 12 it was delaying the release of the new ratings, which would be based on performance and test scores for the 2022-23 school year. District Judge Catherine Mauzy issued a

Meanwhile, 14% of schools would receive higher ratings and 71% would not change.

7% of elementary schools, 6% of middle schools and 47% of high schools would receive lower ratings.

Kingsville ISD Superintendent Cissy Reynolds-Perez said many districts' overall ratings would drop by one or more letter grades due to the changes, even if their performance improves. If a district or one of its campuses receives a failing grade for five consecutive years, the state can intervene.

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The A-F accountability system was established by the 2017 Texas Legislature. Ratings are based on a variety of factors, including:

The framework TEA Commissioner Mike Morath said the agency updated its A-F system to:

What’s next?

Account for students on alternate paths, including those who previously dropped out Increase focus on the “lowest- performing,” or most at-risk, students Align the STAAR test with classroom instruction Better reflect student achievement coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic

The annual State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness

“We look forward to future conversations with [TEA

Commissioner] Mike Morath about how to implement the assessment and accountability system in a manner that is fair and transparent for all school districts in the state of Texas,” the Texas Association of School Administrators said in a statement. The trial on the case will take place at 9 a.m. Feb. 12.

Academic growth

High school graduation rates

Student preparedness for college, a career or the military

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

New! A Community Impact Print + Digital Advertising Package

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Real estate

Number of homes sold

October 2022

October 2023

Residential market data

26 24

32 35

-7.7%

+9.4%

77006

77019

The total number of homes sold was largely flat in three of five local ZIP codes when comparing data from October 2023 with October 2022, but homes sold dropped in ZIP codes covering the Heights and Washington Corridor areas.

71 48

10 11

-32.4%

+10%

77007

77098

77006

610

77007

67 50

-25.4%

77008

77019

Median home sales price

77098

2022

2023

77006

-7.9%

$565,250

$614,000

288

77007

+2.3%

$498,000

$487,000

Homes sold in Heights-River Oaks- Montrose area by price point

77008

+10.8%

$615,000

$555,000

October 2023

77019

-8.7%

$600,000

$657,500

$1,000,001+

77098

+7.1%

$750,000

$700,000

$750,001-$1,000,000

Average days on market

$500,001-$750,000

-11.4%

+14.3%

-26.7%

+6.8%

-28.9%

$250,001-$500,000

<$250,001

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY VICTORIA HAWES DEVENNEY JAMESTOWN ESTATE HOMES 832-296-1663 VICTORIA@JAMESTOWNESTATEHOMES.COM WWW.JAMESTOWNESTATEHOMES.COM

77006

77007

77008

77019

77098

In-house custom home design In-house interior design center Available homes in Oak Forest and the Heights

JamestownEstateHomes.com Victoria Hawes vh@jamestownestatehomes.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

HOUSTON SUPERSTORE 2410 Smith Street (713) 526-8787

WESTCOTT AND MEMORIAL 5818 Memorial Dr (713) 861-4161

SHEPHERD 1900 S Shepherd (713) 529-4849

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY SHAWN ARRAJJ & MELISSA ENAJE

Notice Virtual Public Meeting with In-Person Open House I-10 from Heights Boulevard to I-45 Control Section Job (CSJ): 0271-07-326 Harris County, Texas

Members of the Houston City Council approved a develop- ment agreement Nov. 8 with the nonprofit Covenant House Texas that includes the sale of an abandoned alley near Lovett Boulevard in Montrose. What happened Covenant House works to help homeless youth. Officials broke ground in March on a new facility at Lovett and Yoakum Houston sells alleyway to Covenant House Harris County commissioners approved an agreement with the Texas General Land Office Oct. 31 for a combined $863 million in grant funding to the Harris County Flood Control District that will be allocated for flood- risk reduction projects associated with the 2018 flood control district bond program. Explained Two grants were approved, and each grant has different mandated completion dates, according to county documents. The federal funding comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and is administered by the GLO. • Projects funded by a $322 mil- lion grant must be completed by March 31, 2026. • Projects funded by a $541 mil- lion grant must be completed by March 31, 2028. Harris County approves $863M flood agreement

L O V E T T B L V D .

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Houston District, is pro- posing improvements along Interstate 10 (I-10) from Heights Boulevard to I-45 in Harris County, Texas. This notice advises the public that the project team will be conducting an on-line virtual public meeting on the proposed project with an in-person open house. The virtual public meeting will be available starting on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, by 5 p.m. The virtual public meeting will consist of a pre-recorded video presentation and will in- clude both audio and visual components. To view the virtual public meeting presentation and project information, visit: www.txdot.gov/projects/hearings- meetings.html. Please note that the presentation will not be available on the website until the date and time listed above. If you do not have internet access, you may call (713) 802-5560 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, to ask questions and access project materials during the project development process. Formal comments may be provided by mail or email as explained below. Additionally, TxDOT is providing an in-person open house option for individ- uals who would like to participate in person. Attendees will be able to view the same pre-recorded presentation as posted online, review hard copies of project materials, ask questions and submit written comments. The in-person open house will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the TxDOT Houston District Office Audi- torium located at 7600 Washington Avenue, Houston, Texas 77007. This will be the second public meeting conducted for the proposed project and will present significant design modifications resultant of feedback received from the initial public meeting held in July 2022. The proposed project would raise the elevation of the existing I-10 main lanes above the floodplain of White Oak Bayou from Heights Boulevard to I-45 in Downtown Houston. The proposed construction area would be approximately 1.8 miles in length. The project also includes the construction of a 26-acre detention pond located beneath the elevated I-10 main lanes between Studemont Street and Houston Avenue and would construct a 10-foot-wide shared use path on the north side of I-10 along White Oak Bayou between Studemont Street and I-45. The shared use path would include a connection to the south side of I-10 at Sabine Street. The project requires approximately 1.2 acres of new right of way (ROW) to accommodate the pro- posed improvements. Although additional ROW would be required, no residential or non-residential structures are anticipated to be displaced at this time. Information concerning services and benefits available to affected property owners and information about the tentative schedule for ROW acquisition may be obtained from the TxDOT Houston District Office by calling (713) 802-5352. The proposed project would involve an action in a floodplain. Any environmental documentation or studies, maps and drawings showing the project location and design, tentative construction schedules, and other information regarding the proposed project are on file and available for review Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the TxDOT Houston District Office, 7600 Washington Avenue, Houston, Texas 77007. Project materials are also available online at www.txdot. gov/projects/hearings-meetings.html. These materials will also be available in hard copy form for review at the in-person open house. The public meeting will be conducted in English and Spanish. If you need an interpreter or document translator because English or Spanish is not your primary language or you have difficulty communicating effectively in English or Spanish, one will be provided to you free-of-charge. If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs. If you need interpretation or translation services or you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to attend and participate in the virtual public meeting or in-person open house, please contact Gabriel Adame, the Houston District NEPA Public Engagement Coordinator, at (713) 802-5199 or by email at Gabriel.Adame@txdot.gov no later than 4 p.m., Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. Please be aware that advance notice is required as some services and accommodation may require time for the project team to arrange. Written comments from the public regarding the proposed project are request- ed and may be submitted in any language by mail to the TxDOT Houston District Office, Advanced Project Development Director, P.O. Box 1386, Houston, Texas 77251-1386. Written comments may also be submitted by email to HOU-PIOwebmail@txdot.gov. All comments must be received on or before Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024. Responses to com- ments received will be available online at the web address listed above once completed. If you have any general questions or concerns regarding the proposed project or the virtual public meeting, please contact Grady Mapes, P.E., at (713) 866-7040 or by email at Grady.Mapes@txdot.gov. The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by appli- cable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried-out by TxDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated Decem- ber 9, 2019, and executed by FHWA and TxDOT. Please call 713-802-5199 to request special accommodations or if you have need for interpretation/translation. Mandarin: 如對住宿有特殊要求或需要口譯或筆譯，請撥打 (713) 802-5199. Swahili: Tafadhali piga simu kwa (713) 802-5199 ili kuomba malazi maalum au ikiwa unahitaji ukalimani au utafsiri. Vietnamese: Xin hãy gọi (713) 802-5199 để yêu cầu cho các điều chỉnh đặc biệt hoặc nếu bạn cần có phiên dịch hoặc biên dịch. Creole: Tanpri rele (713) 802-5199 pou mande aranjman espesyal oswa si ou bezwen entèprèt oswa tradiktè.

ALLEY

HAWTHORNE ST.

boulevards that will allow for a 50% increase in the number of homeless youth who can be sheltered. The alley runs through the center of the site. Houston will sell the alley for $590,072. Covenant House will pay the city $100,000 over the next five years, and the remain- ing $490,072 will be paid in nonmonetary compensation.

June 6

Harris County commissioners

approve application to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for disaster recovery funding.

July 18

Commissioners authorize the Harris County Flood Control District to work with the state on a direct allocation of $502.5 million . During negotiations, an additional $39.35 million was offered by the GLO, resulting in the total allocation of $541.85 million .

Oct. 31

Commissioners approve the combined $863.88 million in federal funds, including a past allocation of $322.03 million in CommunityDevelopment Block grants.

SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

A LIFE WELL LIVED. A LIFE WELL EARNED.

Experience the highest levels of hospitality and care at Belmont Village. Through collaboration with top healthcare institutions and universities like University of Texas Health Science Center, our evidence-based health and wellness programs keep seniors thriving.

BelmontVillage.com/HuntersCreek | 832-479-4426

HUNTERS CREEK

Circle of Friends® award-winning memory care Licensed nurse on-site 24/7 | Nationally-recognized, highly trained staff Dedicated Alzheimer’s care | Physical therapy, rehabilitation and fitness

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Expect photo ops with Mr. and Mrs. Claus this season.

Santa’s Wonderland will oer various snow activities, including snow tubing, ice skating, and two snow playgrounds.

PHOTOS COURTESY SANTA’S WONDERLAND

Santa’s Wonderland returns to College Station

such as hay rides, horse and carriage rides, ice skating, snow tubing, train rides, and a meet and greet with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. What else? Santa’s Wonderland will host live music per- formances, classic Christmas music viewing and other themed performances on Frostbite’s Stage. Candies, coee, s’mores, barbecue, hot dogs, funnel cake, kettle corn, pizza, mac and cheese, and German and Cajun cuisine are just some of the Texas eats and treats that will be oered at the park all season long. General admission tickets for adults start at $54.95, and parking permits are available for VIP parking lots closer to the entrance.

First opened in 1998 as a drive-thru light display, Santa’s Wonderland has swelled into a holiday attraction with many festive activities and features for families to enjoy. The 26th season kicks o Nov. 10 and runs through Dec. 30. A closer look Located in College Station, roughly an hour from the Houston area, the grounds of Santa’s Wonderland are adorned with millions of Christ- mas lights. This year, the festival adds 50 new light displays, a Texas-sized snow globe and two snow playgrounds. In addition to the Trail of Lights, general admis- sion tickets grant access to the Texas Christmas Village—where guests can participate in activities,

The park is illuminated by millions of lights.

PEACH CREEK CUTOFF

18898 Hwy. 6, College Station www.santas-wonderland.com

Meet Denise.

She joined CI in 2007 as a receptionist and today serves as one of the company’s General Managers.

Scan to learn more about various career paths at CI and view our current openings. WE ARE HIRING and we think you’d be Amazing

HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

We’re bringing high-tech, high-touch care to patients. Our doctors and staff partner with you to understand your needs and work with you—not just on treatment, but also education and preventive care. open in Cypress- Fairbanks Neda Mehmandoost, DPM Podiatric Medicine/ Foot and Ankle Surgery

Neda Mehmandoost, DPM, AACFAS earned her Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. She completed her surgical residency in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery with added certification in reconstructive rear foot/ankle surgery at West Houston Medical Center where she excelled in the advanced techniques of foot and ankle reconstruction, podiatric surgery, sports medicine, as well as treatment of the diabetic foot. She provides surgical and non surgical services for the following conditions:

• Bunions • Hammertoes • Plantar fasciitis/Heel pain • Ingrown toenails • Ankle sprains • Achilles tendon tears

• Foot fracture/trauma • Neuromas • Arthritis • Heel spurs • Callus care • Orthotics • Fungal toenails • Athletes foot • Pediatric foot care • Dry cracked heels • Geriatric foot care • Cysts • Plantar warts • Blisters

• Achilles tendinitis • Ankle instability • Flat foot • High arches • Diabetic foot care • Sports injuries • Gout • Ankle fracture

4543 Post Oak Place Ste 105 Houston, Texas 77027 713-797-1087 • Mon-Fri 8am - 4:30pm

Walk-ins welcome

Same-day appointments available Village Medical at Greenway 713-461-2915 4120 Southwest Fwy., Ste. 200

Virtual visits

Extended hours offered at some locations

Village Medical at AIM 713-797-1087 4543 Post Oak Place, Suite 105 Houston, TX, 77027 Mon - Fri 8am - 4:30pm

Village Medical at Heights South 713-461-2915 600 N. Shepherd Bldg 5, Suite 530

To schedule an appointment or learn more VillageMedical.com

Houston, TX 77027 Mon - Fri 7am - 6pm

Houston , TX 77007 Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Community

BY ASIA ARMOUR & SHAWN ARRAJJ

Volunteer Guide

2023

Learn more about volunteer and donation opportunities in Heights, River Oaks, Montrose and surrounding areas. For specific volunteer requirements, contact the organization directly. This list is not comprehensive.

Empower children

Care for the environment

Empower children

Girls Empowerment Network The organization advances self-efficacy—or the belief in oneself to succeed—in girls in grades 3-12 through programs that foster confidence, coping skills, collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity. • Sample activities: writing role model letters, creating armation bookmarks, signing up for Girl Connect events • Donations accepted: money, merchandise sales, car donations, stock donations Workshop Houston The nonprofit’s mission is to provide creative, technical and educational resources to young people who are involved in the arts. • Sample activities: working with students during after- school programs once per week during the semester • Donations accepted: checks, in-kind materials • 3615 Sauer St., Houston • www.workshophouston.org • 4660 Beechnut St., Ste. 102, Houston • www.girlsempowermentnetwork.org

Be a Resource The nonprofit works to provide resources to children in Child Protective Services in Houston as well as children who are referred to the organization. • Sample activities: helping with community events; creating hygiene packs and school bags; hosting drives • Donations accepted: money; hygiene products for babies and children; toys; books; diapers; clothing in all sizes; blankets; stuffed animals

Plant it Forward The Houston-based nonprofit works with more than 60 farmers with refugee backgrounds, including farmers operating five urban sites and four rural sites. • Sample activities: helping urban farmers weed, mulch and compost; working at a local farmers market; being a veggie guide content creator • Donations accepted: Venmo, PayPal, mail, stock • Montrose: 1300 Sul Ross St., Houston • Blossom Heights: 8720 Lipan Road, Houston • www.plantitforward.farm

• 3572 E. T C Jester Blvd., Houston • www.bearesourcehouston.org

cleaning supplies • 1110 Lovett Blvd., Houston • www.covenanthousetx.org

Help animals

Care for the environment

Special Pals This animal welfare nonprofit and no-kill shelter works to save animal lives. The center provides adoptions, fostering, low-cost clinics and rescue boarding. • Sample activities: taking care of animals; assisting with administrative work; helping with events; helping transport animals to veterinarians for medical needs; fostering; dog walking; photography, marketing and social media help • Donations accepted: money, gift cards • 3830 Greenhouse Road, Houston • www.specialpals.org

Coastal Prairie Conservancy This organization works to preserve and protect the acres that make up the Katy Prairie for the well-being of the wildlife and people in the area. • Sample activities: participating in Stewardship Saturdays; collecting seeds; caring for the plant nursery; guiding as a docent; helping with pocket prairie initiatives • Donations accepted: money, estate plans, merchandise sales, Kroger Community Awards • Houston office: 5615 Kirby Drive, Ste. 867, Houston • Field office: 31975 Hebert Road, Waller • www.coastalprairieconservancy.org

Houston Area Women’s Center This organization works to end domestic violence, sexual assault and sex trafficking. Services include crisis intervention, support programs and violence prevention initiatives. • Sample activities: joining a committed volunteer fundraising committee; helping at events; offering holiday gift items; assembling essential supply kits to aid women and children in the HAWC shelter • Donations accepted: monetary contributions; food items; brand new clothing for women, infants and toddlers; toys; diapers; hygiene products; beauty products; first aid items; luggage; detergent; smaller appliances • www.hawc.org Montrose Grace Place The organization aims to provide a safe place for individuals ages 13-24 of all sexualities and genders experiencing homelessness in Houston. • Sample activities: providing and serving dinner; facilitating creative group activities; helping clean the clothing closet; providing direct mentorship • Donations accepted: money; Amazon wishlist purchases; new and gently-used clothing for ages 13- 24; unopened packages of underwear and socks

Support those in need

Feed the hungry

Covenant House Texas The nonprofit serves as a shelter for homeless youth between 18-24, providing services such as substance abuse counseling, education, vocational training and basic needs. • Sample activities: hosting activities; facilitating life skills workshops; street outreach; serving as a mentor; clerical and administrative support; serving as an academic tutor; helping with job searches; donating and serving meals • Donations accepted: money; holiday gifts and gift cards; new clothing and shoes for young men, women and children; diapers; hygiene products;

Houston Food Bank The nonprofit collects, inspects, sorts, stores and distributes food to community partners, such as pantries, soup kitchens, schools and multi-service centers. • Sample activities: sorting food; building home delivery kits; assisting with hot meals; distributing food and school supplies • Donations accepted: money, food, vehicles, stocks • East branch: 535 Portwall St., Houston • North branch: 146 Knobcrest Drive, Houston • www.houstonfoodbank.org/volunteernow

• 2515 Waugh Drive, Houston • www.montrosegraceplace.org

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16-17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32

communityimpact.com