Heights - River Oaks - Montrose Edition | October 2025

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Heights River Oaks

Montrose Edition VOLUME 7, ISSUE 7 OCT. 9NOV. 6, 2025

2025 Voter Guide

New congressional map could impact Inner Loop elections

INSIDE

BY HANNAH NORTON & KEVIN VU

Inner Loop residents may be voting for new congressional representatives next year after Texas lawmakers redrew 37 of the state’s 38 congressional districts during a special legislative session. Texas Republicans, who currently hold 25 U.S. House seats, said they hoped the mid-decade redistricting eort would help them net up to ve more seats during the 2026 midterm elections. Among those is TX-09, which covers portions of South Houston and is served by U.S. Rep. Al Green, D-Houston. The changes will also aect TX-18, a seat that is currently vacant and will be lled by a Nov. 4 special election after U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner died March 4. District 9 will shift east to include communities outside Harris County under the new map, while District 18 will move to absorb the existing portions of District 9. A trio of federal judges began a nine-day hearing Oct. 1 to determine if the map can be used in next year’s elections.

HANNAH NORTONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Also in this issue

Check out which Houston neighborhood is now home to the longest bar in Texas Impacts Page 6

Learn more about the candidates running for Houston City Council, Position 4 Election Page 10

See a list of fall events, pumpkin patches happening around the Houston area this season Community Page 18

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Houston’s Comeback — Stronger Than Ever.

Thank You, Houston This is a high-five to every student, teacher, parent, and partner — this is your victory. Together, we are Houston ISD — and we’re just getting started. High-fives to the unstoppable students of Houston ISD! Your hard work has led to real academic gains. With the support of our dedicated teachers and families, Houston students are proving what’s possible. Houston ISD is on the rise.

“This is The Houston Comeback! Just two years ago, our students were significantly behind the rest of the state. Today, nearly three out of four of our schools are rated A or B, and no student in HISD attends an F-rated school. For the first time, geography no longer dictates destiny in HISD. These results reflect the hard work and commitment of our students, families, and educators, and I want to congratulate them on this remarkable achievement.” - Mike Miles

The Comeback Is On — Catch the stories behind the scores Watch student spotlights, school success, and more anytime at YouTube.com/@HISDNOW

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

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Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Angela Bonilla Sarah Brager Melissa Enaje Valeria Escobar Wesley Gardner Atirikta Kumar Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Roo Moody Tomer Ronen Nichaela Shaheen Haley Velasco Kevin Vu

Chloe Mathis General Manager cmathis@ communityimpact.com

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HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

Impacts

Coming soon

W. 34TH ST.

610

7 Tacos A Go Go The quirky Mexican restaurant is expanding in Houston, with two new locations that will include expanded space and a full bar. The spot sells authentic Mexican tacos, sides and desserts. • Opening this winter • A Heights: 1102 Yale St., Houston • B Tanglewood: 2231 S. Voss Road, Houston • www.tacosagogo.com 8 Hypsi Anchoring Hotel Daphne, the new full-service restaurant and lounge will be run by two-time James Beard Award nominee chef Terrence Gallivan and serve elevated Italian-style fare. • Opening in November • 347 W. 20th St., Houston • www.bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-daphne 9 Maison Chinoise Known for its combination of contemporary and traditional Chinese cuisine, the Dallas-based concept will open its first Houston location. The menu includes premium house-made dim sum and dumplings. • Opening mid-October 10 Amanecer Mexican Cafe This family-owned and operated Mexican cafe will serve authentic, scratch-made comfort meals and fresh-baked pan dulce. • Opening in October • 2409 Airline Drive, Ste. 100, Houston • Instagram: @amanecermexcafe 11 LifeSculpt This new clinic specializes in longevity medicine and aesthetic treatments such as Botox, hormone therapy • 1958 W. Gray St., Ste. 102, Houston • www.maisonchinoiserestaurants.com

W. 25TH ST.

290

20TH ST.

W. 19TH ST.

W. 18TH ST.

T. C. JESTER BLVD.

W. 11TH ST.

610

WHITE OAK DR.

W. 6TH ST.

WHITE OAK PARK

WASHINGTON AVE.

18D 3

TAYLOR ST.

SAWYER ST.

MEMORIAL PARK

BUFFALO BAYOU PARK

WESTHEIMER RD.

P K

18B

W. CLAY ST.

W. GRAY ST.

BUFFALO BAYOU

18C

18A

POST OAK BLVD.

527

W. ALABAMA ST.

RICHMOND AVE.

288

• www.chateau-bellecru.com

Now open

and laser therapy. • Opening Oct. 16 • 1711 Post Oak Blvd., Houston • www.lifesculptmd.com

4 Krua Thai & Sushi Customers can order Thai dishes at this new spot near the Galleria, including pad Thai, curries and pineapple fried rice. Sushi is also available. • Opened Aug. 28 • 6324 Richmond Ave., Houston • www.kruahouston.com 5 Insomnia Cookies The Pennsylvania-based company is best known for selling and delivering a variety of warm cookies and ice cream late at night. • Opened Aug. 21 6 Studs Known for coining the term “earscaping,” this store specializes in custom ear piercings and features more than 250 earrings for customers to choose from. • Opened Aug. 27 • 5115 Westheimer Road, Ste. 2805, Houston • www.studs.com • 508 W. 19th. St., Houston • www.insomniacookies.com

1 Smash City The new halal smashburger and hot dog eatery is a late- night concept that started as a food truck in Louisiana. This will be the first brick-and-mortar restaurant. • Opened Sept. 13

12 The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Houston The luxury hospitality brand is bringing its first-ever branded residences and hotel to Houston. The 44-story building will consist of guest rooms and private residences. • Opening TBD

• 6377 Westheimer Road, Houston • www.smash-city-burgers.com

2 Texadelphia Serving unique and classic cheesesteaks, the Austin- based franchise opened in the former Upside Pub. A full bar is also available. • Opened Sept. 15 • 3402 N. Shepherd Drive, Houston • www.texadelphia.com 3 Chateau Bellecru Designed to remind customers of a Parisian evening, the spot serves a curated selection of wines from vineyards across France. • Opened Sept. 1 • 1515 Studemont St., Houston

• 2120 Post Oak Blvd., Houston • www.rcresidenceshouston.com

13 KLA Schools of River Oaks Enrolling children from six weeks to four years old, the private school will open next spring and provide a child- focused curriculum. • Opening spring 2026

• 1324 W. Clay St., Ste. 200, Houston • www.klaschools.com/river-oaks

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

all Houston locations are closed. The restaurant sold affordable salads and wraps. • Closed Sept. 19 • 3000 N. Durham Drive, Houston • www.saladandgo.com 17 Picos Restaurant Restaurant officials announced in August that the Mexican restaurant would be shutting down after 38 years. The spot sold dishes such as mole, chile relleno and charbroiled octopus. • Closing end of 2025 • 3601 Kirby Drive, Houston • www.picos.net 18 Starbucks In a Sept. 25 news release, Brian Niccol, the chairman and CEO of Starbucks, announced the closure of hundreds of Starbucks locations across the country, including four in Houston. • Closed Sept. 25

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

Now open

14 Sandoitchi The Japanese sandwich company is opening its first physical store in Houston in early 2026, selling sandwiches made with Japanese milk bread. • 1603 N. Durham Drive, Houston • www.sandoitchi.com

Relocations

15 Honey Art Cafe The themed cafe offering coffee, pastries and art classes closed its Montrose location in August to open a new location in The Heights near Airline Drive. Its projected opening date is around Halloween. • Relocating in October

19 Kirby Ice House - Heights With the longest bar in Texas, measuring at 146 feet, the new Kirby Ice House in the Heights sits on a 3.5-acre lot and can hold up to 800 guests. The bar includes 40 TVs for game day viewing, daily cocktail specials and rotating food trucks. • Opened Aug. 29

• 3516 S. Shepherd Drive, Houston • https://honeyartcafe.square.site

• A 3407 Montrose Blvd., Houston • B 5535 Memorial Drive, Houston • C 2101 Smith St., Houston • D 1515 Studemont St., Houston • www.starbucks.com

Closings

• 1421 N. Loop W., Houston • www.kirbyicehouse.com

16 Salad and Go The drive-thru salad chain confirmed in an email that

Crafted & Curated Thursday, October 23, 2025 1801 Main Street - Courtyard 6 – 8:30 p.m.

For details, please visit: uhd.edu/craftedcurated

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Oering oce space & executive suites

Election

BY HANNAH BROL & KEVIN VU

Voter Guide

CONTACT US TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION Historic Property in Houston Museum District | Free On Site Garage Parking Property Manager On Site | Controlled Access

Dates to know

Oct. 20: First day of early voting Oct. 24: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Oct. 31: Last day of early voting Nov. 4: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or Nov. 5 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Where to vote

PROSPERITY BANK PLAZA

Harris County residents can cast their ballot at any polling location during early voting or on Election Day. Visit www.harrisvotes.com for polling locations.

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

KEY: D Democrat G Green R Republican I Independent

5020 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006 (713) 292-2750 | gayeh@lpm-triallaw.com

Local elections Houston City Council, At-Large Position 4 J. Brad Batteau Dwight A. Boykins Martina Lemond Dixon Ethan Hale Miguel Herrera Al Lloyd Kristal Mtaza-Lyons ( write-in candidate ) Sonia Rivera Adrian Thomas Rogers Alejandra Salinas Sheraz Mohammad Siddiqui Kathy L. Tatum Angie Thibodeaux Jordan Thomas Cris Wright

Sample ballot

Federal elections U.S. Representative, District 18 R Theodis Daniel R Ollie J. Knox R Carmen Maria Montiel R Carter Page R Ronald Dwayne Whitfield

FOR CONGRESS STEPHEN HUEY Stephen Huey is

As a person of faith, he believes public servants should be accountable and transparent and he is refusing money from sources that would compromise his values, instead relying on grassroots supporters like you.

running to represent you in Congress and will work on sensible policies that help hardworking American families. He and his wife Stephanie both went to Rice University and are raising their kids in the 18th district of Texas. Stephen has spent 20+ years building innovative technology solutions in several industries and is currently a small business owner. He’s not a career politician and believes the establishment has not been serving us well, so vote for Stephen if you want a new approach and someone who will work with anyone to lower the cost of living and increase the number of well-paying jobs.

D Feldon Bonner II D Amanda Edwards

D Stephen Huey D Jolanda Jones D Isaiah R. Martin D Christian Dashaun Menefee D Valencia Williams I Reyna Anderson I Vince Duncan I George Edward Foreman IV G Tammie Jean Rochester

SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE OFFICE, HARRIS COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

More election coverage Candidate Q&As for the U.S. Representative, District 18 election are not included in this issue due to limited space.

To read these additional Q&As and for more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

Huey.vote is a shortcut to my website, so go there to donate or reach out to me with your questions, and remember to go vote!

Paid for by Stephen Huey for Congress

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Election

What do you think are the biggest issues right now facing Houstonians, and how would you look into addressing those challenges? Houston City Council At-Large, Position 4

J. Brad Batteau Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Dwight A. Boykins Occupation & experience:

Martina Lemond Dixon Occupation & experience: CEO and business executive consultant; businesswoman, background in construction and business, former Humble ISD trustee ... www.voteformartina.com

Entrepreneur/small business owner; I previously served six years under two mayors as a Council member for District D https://dwightboykins.info

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Affordable housing, fair wages, and public safety. In the past, I actively served residents of Council District D and have the record to prove it. As an at-large member, I look forward to working with city leaders to develop common-sense solutions to these issues that benefit all Houstonians.

The biggest issues are public safety, aging infrastructure, and cost of living. Houstonians deserve safe, quality lives without being taxed out of their homes. I will ensure every hard-earned tax dollar is used wisely, focusing on core services, cutting waste, and investing in projects that deliver real value to residents.

Ethan Hale Occupation & experience:

Miguel Herrera Occupation & experience: College student; UHD Undergraduate Student Government Association, former treasurer/current student- body vice-president www.linktr.ee/herrera4htx

Al Lloyd Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Student/steering committee of Recall Houston; coordination with community groups, leading a volunteer team, outreach ... www.haleforhouston.com

Income inequality. This manifests in multiple ways, through disparities in transit, drainage, healthcare, clean air, education, economic opportunity. Our water supply is on the verge of collapse, and the problem is being exacerbated by data centers. We should invest in water treatment plants and shut down new data center developments.

The issues that Houstonians are facing are failing infrastructure, flooding, and lack of law & order. I will address these issues by introducing reforms, and incentives to direct funding to critical infrastructure, and improve drainage and flood mitigation.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Kristal Mtaza-Lyons Occupation & experience:

Sonia Rivera Occupation & experience: Consultant; 20 years protecting communities from gangs, drugs, and homelessness; 15 years in business, construction, housing www.soniarivera.us

Adrian Thomas Rogers Occupation & experience: Attorney/police officer; advocate, public safety, legal, outreach atrvote@gmail.com

Executive director, Houston Strong Children Services; entrepreneur; workforce development; public health advocate www.kristalforhouston.com

Houston’s biggest challenges are poverty, housing, safety, wages, and infrastructure and they are all tied to workforce development. I will drive apprenticeships, livable-wage jobs, and employer accountability for tax breaks, while linking housing policy to income growth. By expanding opportunity, training locals to build resilient infrastructure, and strengthening safety through jobs ...

Houstonians face rampant criminal activity, a lack of affordable housing, and limited access to healthcare. I will back law enforcement, cut red tape to expand housing options, and support community-based healthcare solutions that put families first. My focus is on safety, stability, and opportunity without higher taxes or bigger government.

Public safety is a top concern. To combat rising crime, I’ll advocate for smarter use of technology, such as expanded video surveillance, and enhance community partnerships so that law enforcement can respond more effectively. Supporting our vulnerable populations, including juveniles, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness, is also essential.

Alejandra Salinas Occupation & experience: Attorney; stopped Republican efforts to overturn Harris County elections; challenged political gerrymandering and ... www.alejandrasalinas.com

Sheraz Mohammad Siddiqui Occupation & experience: Small business owner/trader; volunteer with flood relief efforts; coordinated food drives; recipient of Presidential Volunteer Service Award 832-879-1439

Kathy L. Tatum Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Public safety, affordable and reliable city services, and infrastructure. I will work closely with the city controller to monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of city programs and services, and with the administration to generate new sources of revenue, including investing in grant writers to secure more nonprofit and foundation funding.

The biggest issues are public safety, flooding and affordability. Houstonians struggle with safety concerns, infrastructure gaps and rising costs. I will address these challenges by allocating and long-term solutions. Collaborate with agencies and partners and ensure resources reach communities creating a safer, stronger and more affordable Houston.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY KEVIN VU

Angie Thibodeaux Occupation & experience: National community organizer; HBCU graduate; 20 years as corporate executive; spent 15 years in advocacy & community organizing www.adthibodeaux.com

Jordan Thomas Occupation & experience: Power grid infrastructure developer; chief of staff: Amanda Edwards & Letitia Plummer; board of directors: Link Houston & ACLU TX www.votejordanthomas.com

Cris Wright Occupation & experience: Business advisor & strategist; former local government reporter, business advisor, entrepreneur and public speaker www.catchcris.com/joincris

Access to affordable housing inventory and excessive rents, along with safe streets and neighborhoods. Partnering with our law enforcement officers and ensuring that residents are not only aware of the issues that plague our neighborhoods but also know how to take preventative measures is crucial.

Three of the biggest issues are housing affordability and displacement, extreme weather (especially flooding and heat), and public safety in its broader sense. To address housing, I propose reforms like transferring vacant MRA lots to community land trusts, strengthening the affordable housing trust fund, and building a comprehensive housing plan …

I’ll modernize city processes, software, and training so residents can easily navigate government and influence decisions because the people, not bureaucracy, should be the city’s decision-makers. I’ll also elevate microbusinesses as a workforce development strategy— bringing mobile advising into neighborhoods and offering programs for steady-income ventures, not just high-growth or B2G.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

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HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Government

Education

BY KEVIN VU

BY WESLEY GARDNER & CASSANDRA JENKINS

3,000 homeless people identified in Harris County The Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County’s annual Point-in-Time survey released Sept. 9 shows homelessness in the Houston area remains steady, but there has been a jump in chronic homelessness compared to last year. Latest update From Jan. 28-30, survey volunteers went around the Houston region—including Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties—asking unhoused individu- als where they slept the night of Jan. 27. The coalition found there were 3,325 homeless individuals in the region that night, with 3,000 tallied in Harris County alone. Kelly Young, the coalition’s president and CEO, said Houston’s homeless population remains steady compared to the rising trend nationally, due in part to a “consistent response system.” “In order to prevent homelessness, respond

Council proposes fencing requirements Houston City Council member Tarsha Jack- son, District B, introduced a new ordinance during a Sept. 16 Proposition A committee meeting that would require property owners to fence the perimeters of all vacant buildings. Current situation The ordinance would require property owners to install fences that are at least 6 feet tall within 10 days of a commercial building’s vacancy, with a few exceptions. If an owner fails to comply, a citation will be issued with a fine of $500 per day. Jackson said she proposed the ordinance because of constituents saying they were seeing empty buildings often littered with crime and illegal dumping. However, due to the lack of a quorum, no action was taken at the meeting.

HISD aims for all schools to be A- or B- rated by 2027 Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles, who was appointed by the Texas Education Agency in June 2023, hosted a news conference Sept. 9, promising that by the start of the 2027-28 school year, all 273 schools will be A- or B-rated. Zooming in TEA released A-F accountability ratings for the 2024-25 school year Aug. 15, which showed that the district had no F-rated campuses. However, despite recent gains, Miles said the district is aiming to improve even further in the next one to two years, as the district still had 54 campuses receive a C and 18 earn a D in the past school year. “This is all of our success, and all of our future effort,” Miles said. “This will be to the benefit of all Houstonians and not just the kids in HISD.” Miles said the district has reached out to

Superintendent receives $173K bonus The Houston ISD board of managers approved a $173,660 bonus for Superinten- dent Mike Miles following the release of his evaluation for the 2024-25 school year, officials said in a Sept. 16 news release. The payment is part of Miles’ contract, which allows for up to $190,000 in incentive pay tied to annual results, per the release. A closer look According to Texas Education Agency data, HISD’s A-F accountability ratings increased from 93 A- and B-rated schools two years ago to 197 in 2024-25. District data also shows that during Miles’ two years in office, students who took the end-of-year exams in 2024-25 passed by higher percentage points in all five subjects when compared to the 2022-23 school year.

HISD 2025 ratings by geography

Homeless population in Houston From 2023 to 2024, the Houston area saw 45 more homeless individuals.

A B C D

-28%

4,000 4,500 5,000 3,500 3,000 0

4,609

610

3,325

+9%

WESTPARK TOLLWAY.

288

SOURCE: THE COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS OF HOUSTON, HARRIS COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

within 90 days, and ensure no one has to sleep outside while waiting for housing, we must invest in a system capable of meeting the full scale of need in our city and county,” she said. Despite the stability, the region has seen a 44% increase in chronic homelessness, or someone who has been homeless for at least 12 months.

SOURCE: HOUSTON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Houston area business leaders to sponsor a school with a C or D rating, which includes funding two teacher appreciation lunches, student celebra- tions, campus cleanup days and donating dollars to use for academic needs.

HOUSTON SUPERSTORE 2410 Smith Street (713) 526-8787

SHEPHERD 1900 S Shepherd (713) 529-4849

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

New congressional map could impact Inner Loop elections From the cover

This November, a special election will be held to ll a vacant seat representing TX-18 after U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner died in March. The winner of that election will serve the remainder of the term. All congressional seats are up for election in 2026. All states are constitutionally required to redistrict every 10 years after a census, although mid-decade redistricting is not unprecedented, said Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston. Texas lawmakers also redrew the state’s congressional boundaries in 2003.

“Each of these newly-drawn districts now trend Republican,” Hunter said Aug. 20. “While there's no guarantee of electoral success, Republicans will now have an opportunity to potentially win these... ve new districts.” If the federal court allows Texas’ redrawn congressional map to become law, the new districts will take eect in January 2027—the beginning of the next congressional cycle—and will not impact current congressional terms. Candidates will have from Nov. 8-Dec. 8 to le to appear on the March 3 primary ballots.

The overview

Texas lawmakers began redistricting this summer, after President Donald Trump asked Texas and other GOP-led states to redraw their congressional maps to benet Republicans outside the decennial redistricting period. Rep. Todd Hunter, R-Corpus Christi, said the “primary changes” to Texas’ congressional map were focused on ve districts: TX-09, TX-28, TX-32, TX-34 and TX-35.

Current

New

DISTRICT 18

DISTRICT 29

DISTRICT 18

610

INSIDE

DISTRICT 38

DISTRICT 29

DISTRICT 9

288

DISTRICT 7

610

DISTRICT 9

SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATIVE COUNCILCOMMUNITY IMPACT

District population changes In District 9, Harris County will see a 62% decrease in Black voting-age residents under the new congressional map. Current map New map

The debate

SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATIVE COUNCILCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Rottinghaus said political parties can maximize their success in a district through multiple ways, such as drawing lines that would favor a certain political party, changing the district’s demographic prole or increasing district sizes to include additional territories. “Looking at the way District 9 has been pro- duced, it’s certainly going to be a lot less urban than it was, and it’s a lot less of a Black district than it was,” Rottinghaus said. “That means it’s going to be a challenge for Democrats to try to win those seats.” According to data from the Texas Legislative Council, Harris County is expected to see an increase in white voters in District 9, as parts of the district move from Harris, Fort Bend and Brazoria

District 9

District 18

28.3% of voters will be added to District 9.

19.1% of voters will leave District 18.

White

Black

Asian

Hispanic

White

Black

Asian

Hispanic

SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATIVE COUNCILCOMMUNITY IMPACT

counties to Harris and Liberty counties. With the new map, the number of white voters in District 9 will more than double, while Black voters will decrease by 62%.

In District 18, the county will see a decrease in white, Asian and Hispanic voters as por- tions of the overall population are moved to dierent districts.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HANNAH NORTON & KEVIN VU

The local impact

Remember this?

What’s next

District 9 was redrawn from covering southern Houston to eastern Harris and Liberty counties. District 18, which previously only covered Harris County, was shifted southeast to include communities in Harris and Fort Bend counties. New boundaries With the new map, constituents in the Heights, River Oaks and Montrose communities will be largely banded together under District 7.

Three federal judges will determine if Texas’ new congressional map can take eect after a nine-day hearing in El Paso, concluding after press time. Minority advocacy groups led a lawsuit against the map in August. 2025 • Aug. 23-29: A lawsuit was iled against the new congressional map days before Gov. Greg Abbott signed it into law • Oct. 1-10: Three federal judges review the lawsuit in El Paso • Nov. 4: Election Day for local races and vacant seats in the U.S. Congress • Nov. 8-Dec. 8: Candidate iling period for 2026 primary elections 2026 • March 3: Primary elections for congressional seats and other midterm races • Nov. 3: U.S. midterm elections take place

In 2006, the U.S. Supreme Court gave map- makers the exibility on when and how to redraw district lines through the League of United Latin American Citizens v. Perry case, which Rotting- haus said allowed mid-decade redistricting. A redistricting eort in 2003 led to Texas Republicans winning 21 U.S. House seats to Democrats’ 11 during the 2004 election—a jump from 2002, when Democrats won 17 seats and Republicans won 15, according to the Texas Secretary of State’s Oce. Eve Myers, a board member at the League of Women Voters of Houston, a nonpartisan orga- nization aimed at increasing voter participation, said the new map potentially places communi- ties under the leadership of representatives who may not have the expertise to represent them. “Both [Districts] 18 and 9 ... have been shifted to include disparate communities that may not have the same interests as those living within the urban population,” she said.

District 18 District 38 District 7

77008

77007

77019

610

77006

77098

SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATECOMMUNITY IMPACT

288

610

HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

Transportation

BY CASSANDRA JENKINS

Upcoming projects

290

610

1 Inner Katy Corridor Project: The three-segment project includes reconstructing 10 main lanes and two 3-lane frontage roads, along with the construction of four new non- tolled managed lanes and drainage improvements. Update: The Houston-Galveston Area Council announced in August that the project would be a part of the 2050 Regional Transportation Plan to receive funding. • Timeline: 2040-TBD • Cost: $1.02 billion • Funding sources: H-GAC, TxDOT Houston District

MONTROSE BLVD.

ALLEN PKWY.

MEMORIAL PARK

W. CLAY ST.

288

Ongoing projects

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

2 Montrose Boulevard Improvements Project Project: The project includes fully reconstructing Montrose Boulevard from Allen Parkway to West Clay Street into a four-lane concrete roadway with a median, sidewalks, trees, signals and a pedestrian bridge. Update: Starting on Sept. 15, the contractors began construction on the pedestrian bridge, storm sewer installation and on the east side of the retaining wall. Westbound traffic is still closed as work on the West

COLORS Update: Construction on Segment 2, from I-610 to Hwy. 6, will start in October or November, with completion in 2026. Construction on Segment 1, between Shepherd Drive and I-610, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. • Timeline: 2024-2026 • Cost: $12.2 million • Funding source: METRO

Dallas Street intersection continues. • Timeline: March 2025-Q2 2026 • Cost: $17.9 million • Funding source: Montrose TIRZ 3 82 Westheimer Project

Project: This project includes roadway repair and street reconstruction, as well as the addition of new sidewalks, improved accessibility and bus shelters with lighting.

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Events

BY ROO MOODY

anime voice actors and celebrity guests. • Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • $35 (general admission), free (kids under 7) • 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston • www.collectaconusa.com/houston2 UHealth Houston Half Marathon and 10K Presented by local nonprofit Houston Striders, the half-marathon and 10K features a flat, fast course that starts and ends at Sam Houston Park. Participants can also access free photos, finisher medals, post-race Saint Arnold beer and IHOP pancakes.

October

International Quilt Festival Taking place days after the International Quilt Market, this year’s International Quilt Festival is held at the George R. Brown Convention Center, showcasing booths that feature a range of items, including antique quilts, sewing machines, baskets and rugs. • Oct. 9-12 • $19 (adult day pass), $16 (senior/student day pass) • 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston • www.quilts.com/quilt-festival Vivaldi’s Four Seasons In celebration of 300 years of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, the Houston Saengerbund is hosting a concert with the Mercury Chamber Orchestra that will showcase all four concertos. • Oct. 23, 7:30-8:30 p.m. • $35 (general admission), $10 (students) • 1703 Heights Blvd., Houston • www.mercuryhouston.org/2526-vivaldis-four-seasons Collect-A-Con The nation’s largest trading card and anime convention is being held at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Guests can interact with more than 900 vendor tables,

• Oct. 26, 7 a.m. • $74.10-$105.86 • 1000 Bagby St., Houston • www.houstonhalf.com

Bayou City Art Festival Nearly 300 artists will gather at Memorial Park to showcase their art and enjoy live music and food with thousands of patrons. Attendees can walk through the park and meet the artists, view original work and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. • Oct. 10-12, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • $18 (adults), $5 (children ages 6-12) • S. Picnic Lane, Houston • www.bayoucityartfestival.com

November

Día de los Muertos Discovery Green is helping Houstonians remember their loved ones on Día de los Muertos through a night of music, memory and tribute. A Catrina and Catrin Contest will also be held for the first time.

• Nov. 2, 3-7 p.m. • Free (admission)

• 1500 McKinney St., Houston • www.discoverygreen.com

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HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Community

BY ROO MOODY

Fall Guide

October

Houston Farmers Market Located in the Houston Heights, the Houston Farmers Market’s month-long pumpkin patch will feature orange treasures ranging from petite pumpkins to giant gourds that are perfect for family photos. • 2520 Airline Drive, Houston • Free (admission) • Sept. 27-Oct. 27, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • www.thehoustonfarmersmarket.com Westminster United Methodist Church Westminster United Methodist Church is set to host fun, family events in the church’s pumpkin patch throughout October, including bingo night, family pumpkin painting and trunk-or-treat. • 5801 San Felipe St., Houston • Free (admission) • Oct. 12-Nov. 1, times vary • www.wumc.com Zoo Boo The Houston Zoo is celebrating fall with carved pumpkins, a pumpkin tree and animal-themed peek-a- boo pumpkins, along with other themed activities. • 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston • Free (members), general admission ticket (non-members) • Sept. 26- Oct. 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • www.houstonzoo.org/events/zoo-boo-2025 ArBOOretum Families can enjoy Houston’s only trick-or-treat nature trail, live animals, a Halloween market and pumpkin decorating at the Arboretum’s fall-themed festival. • 4501 Woodway Drive, Houston • $20 per ticket • Oct. 18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Houston Pumpkin Festival Discovery Green is bringing back its annual pumpkin festival, featuring more than 50 pumpkins, the world’s largest bouncy pumpkin and a massive corn pit.

• 1500 McKinney St., Houston • $18 (weekdays), $26 (weekends) • Sept. 20-Nov. 2, weekdays from 3 p.m.-10 p.m., weekends from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. • www.discoverygreen.com/signature-experiences/ houston-pumpkin-festival

• www.houstonarboretum.org/event/arbooretum

• www.stlukesmethodist.org

St. Luke’s Pumpkin Patch Throughout October, families can pick out a pumpkin at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, take festive family photos and support the church’s Pure Sound Youth Choir. • 3471 Westheimer Road, Houston • Free (admission) • Oct. 4-31,10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily and Sundays from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

St. Joseph Fall Festival The fall festival is St. Joseph’s biggest fundraiser of the year, featuring live music, games, raffles and a silent auction. • 1505 Kane St., Houston • Free (admission)

• Oct. 18, noon-10 p.m. • www.saintjoseph.org

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Business

BY ROO MOODY

Owner Brandy Chu opened the rst Cutthroat Barbers location in 2013 after drawing inspiration from international barber shops.

Professionals at Cutthroat Barbers are trained to work with all types of hair, supporting the company’s goal of diversity, professionalism and quality service.

PHOTOS BY ROO MOODYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Cutthroat Barbers links salon, barbershop services In 2012, Brandy Chu realized some of her male cli- ents were going to a barbershop to get a fade haircut and then making an appointment at the salon she worked at to get a scissor cut.

other upscale barbershops before opening. She found inspiration from establishments such as Fellow Barber, Blind Barber and Frank’s Chop Shop in New York, as well as Figaro’s Barbershop in Lisbon, Portugal. Something to note Chu said the shop doesn’t charge for haircuts based on race or gender but on short or long hair. Instead of identifying as a men’s barber shop or a salon that caters to a specic demographic, Chu said it was important to hire professionals who can service a diverse clientele. Additionally, Chu said she wanted to create a more professional career path for barbers by oering benets such as health insurance and prot sharing.

Cutthroat Barbers has three Houston locations spread out between the Houston Heights and Montrose areas.

This gap in service inspired Chu to open Cutthroat Barbers in 2013, a barbershop that Chu said doesn’t play into the stereotype that barbershops are for men and salons are for women. The context Originally, the barbershop was designed to be a pop-up shop inside a men’s clothing store on Washington Avenue, but Chu agreed to a physical storefront when the lease next door became available. Chu said she traveled around the world to study

244 W. 19th St., Houston www.cutthroatbarbers.com

ENERGY GLOBAL SUMMIT Engage with diverse industry experts and global thought leaders, fostering dialogue on the future of energy security, access, and technological advancement worldwide. With speakers from DNV, Accenture, Amazon Web Services, DNV, ExxonMobil, Siemens, SLB & NextGen Energy . Wednesday, October 29 | OMNI HOUSTON HOTEL

HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

Real estate

The number of homes sold was up in three of five local ZIP codes, with the Upper Kirby neighborhood seeing the largest increase at 133%. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

August 2024

August 2025

+5.26%

-4.35%

+30%

-12.12%

+133.33%

610

77006

77007

77008

77019

77098

77008

77007

Median home sales price

77019

August

2024

2025

77006

$675,000 $521,950 $608,125 $650,000 $487,500

$554,543 $523,579 $579,750 $674,000 $790,000

77006

77098

77007

288

77008

Homes sold by price point

77019

August 2025

77098

$1,000,000+

$750,001-$1,000,000

Average days on market

$500,001-$750,000

-28.18%

-7.35%

-2.78%

+16.33%

+59.32%

$250,001-$500,000

<$250,001

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY CB&A REALTORS 832-678-4770 • WWW.CBAREALTORS.COM

77006

77007

77008

77019

77098

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DONATION DROP-OFFS ACCEPTED AT BOTH WAG’N WORLD MONTROSE & HEIGHTS LOCATIONS

THIS YEAR, WAG’N WORLDS’ 6TH ANNUAL FOOD & BLANKET DRIVE EXPANDS TO SUPPORT FIVE AMAZING RESCUE PARTNERS THIS YEAR’S FOOD & BLANKET DRIVE IS EXPANDING TO SUPPORT FIVE AMAZING RESCUE PARTNERS

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SCAN FOR DETAILS ALL DONATIONS ACCEPTED AT WAG’N WORLD MONTROSE & HEIGHTS LOCATIONS W. Dallas St.

HEIGHTS 1616 W 22nd St. Houston, TX 77008 832-699-3399

MONTROSE 1616 Montrose Blvd. Houston, TX 77006 713-496-3596

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HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

Bringing the wild to you!

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2025-2026 CONCERTS November 15 | February 7 | April 25 5:00PM | St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church | 1819 Heights Blvd, 77008 SCAN THE QR CODE la-speranza.com/concerts 2025-2026 SEASON- “CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF” La Speranza brings vibrant historically informed performances on period instruments to Houston and beyond. TO LEARN MORE & BUY TICKETS

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