Heights - River Oaks - Montrose Edition | February 2025

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 6, ISSUE 11 FEB. 12MARCH 11, 2025

Talking tourism

Houston leaders create plans for future upgrades to sports, convention centers

it’s important for Houston to stay competitive when it comes to creating rst-class facilities. “We’ve got to make sure that when we’re courting major events that we continue to keep in our minds that there is competition out there,” he said.

potential changes in the next several years, including NRG Park, the Astrodome, George R. Brown Con- vention Center, the Toyota Center and Daikin Park, formerly known as Minute Maid Park. Ryan Walsh, chief executive ocer of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, said he believes

BY CASSANDRA JENKINS

Many of Houston’s sports and convention centers are set to undergo major changes with plans for ren- ovations, feasibility studies, expansions and/or new design concepts revealed in late 2024 into early 2025. At least ve key venues are on the list to see

CONTINUED ON 20

NRG Park

288

610

Redesign plans for NRG Park were released in late 2024.

JAMAAL ELLISCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Also in this issue

Subscribe to our free daily email newsletter!

Transportation: Check out what roads will be closed during TxDOT’s construction of the White Oak Bayou elevation project on I10 (Page 6)

Dining: See how Traveler’s Table creates dishes that combine foreign and familiar avors together in Montrose (Page 18)

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/care-central or call 713.790.3333 .

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

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.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Angela Bonilla Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Ryan Reynolds Nichaela Shaheen Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Kevin Vu Carson Weaver Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Cassandra Jenkins Editor cjenkins@ communityimpact.com

Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White Ronald Winters Account Executive Leslie Gonzales Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Product Manager Kaitlin Schmidt Quality Desk Editor Sierra Rozen

Jason Culpepper Houston Market President jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 2814696181 CI Careers

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

communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact hrmnews@communityimpact.com hrmads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

Press releases

Advertising

Email newsletters

communityimpact.com/newsletter

Whole Earth Provision Co. SALE End of Season Shop Online 2934 S SHEPHERD DR. | 2501 POST OAK BLVD. Swing by one of our Houston stores and snag unbeatable deals on apparel, gear, and more. Hurry, these savings won’t last!

HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

Impacts

W. 34TH ST.

personal training options, as well as a sauna and body composition scanner. • Opened Dec. 19 • 1532 W. Gray St., Houston • www.eosfitness.com 8 Lark & Berry The luxury jeweler opened its first U.S. location in the Upper Kirby neighborhood and showcases jewelry that merges high fashion with sustainability and design. • Opened Dec. 18 • 2630 Richmond Ave., Houston • www.larkandberry.com 9 Mexican Sugar The Dallas-based eatery showcases traditional Mexican favorites such as tacos, enchiladas and fajitas, as well as

W. 25TH ST.

290

610

20TH ST.

W. 18TH ST.

T. C. JESTER BLVD.

W. 11TH ST.

WHITE OAK DR.

W. 6TH ST.

WHITE OAK PARK

WASHINGTON AVE.

SAWYER ST.

MEMORIAL PARK

EDWARDS ST.

a brunch option. • Opened Dec. 16

• 3505 W. Dallas St., Houston • www.mexicansugarcocina.com

BUFFALO BAYOU PARK

610

P K

BUFFALO PARK DR.

BUFFALO BAYOU

Coming soon

UPTOWN PARK BLVD.

17 9

18 21

10 The Audrey Restaurant This Audrey Hepburn-inspired restaurant and bar exudes Old Hollywood charm with cuisine consisting of premium meats, seafood and pasta, as well as an expansive wine program. • Opening in fall 11 Solarium The new concept will transform the former Holman Draft Hall into a restaurant, lounge and bar that will feature four pickleball courts, two padel courts and five private lounge-like court bays with waiter service. • Opening in spring • 1616 Post Oak Blvd., Houston • www.audreyrestaurant.com

W. GRAY ST.

FAIRVIEW ST.

W. ALABAMA ST.

527

RICHMOND AVE.

4 Ritual One The fitness studio combines a variety of popular workout methods in one location, including hot Pilates, power vinyasa and HIIT, inside an infrared heated studio. • Opened Jan. 11 • 1121 Uptown Park Blvd., Ste. 9, Houston • https://houston.ritualoneyoga.com 5 Stefano Ricci This luxury menswear retailer sells Italian cashmere and leather pieces, accessories, shoes and fragrances. • Opened Dec. 24 • 4444 Westheimer Road, Ste. C110, Houston • www.stefanoricci.com 6 Chikahan Chef Andrew Musico is bringing Filipino fine dining to Houston with this new restaurant that will focus on seasonal and local ingredients through a seven-course tasting menu. • Opened Jan. 8 • 2313 Edwards St., Ste. 180, Houston • www.chikahanhtx.com 7 EOS Fitness The new gym features premium cardio and strength equipment, a recovery room, group fitness and

Now open

• 820 Holman St., Houston • Instagram: @solariumhtx

1 Starduster Lounge This bar combines the rugged charm of West Texas with the energy of Houston’s North Main Street and will serve a mix of agave spirits, whiskey and craft cocktails. • Opened late January • 3921 N. Main St., Houston • www.stardusterheights.com 2 On the Kirb The organic eatery and sports bar offers fresh local produce, organic meats, and free-range dairy and poultry products, along with local beers, seasonal craft cocktails and wine. • Opened Jan. 10 • 3800 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 124, Houston • www.onthekirb.com 3 Santé This new cocktail concept brings handcrafted cocktails and an elevated food program, including oysters and caviar, to Houston’s Upper Kirby area as well as a European flare. • Opened Dec. 10 • 2309 Richmond Ave., Houston • www.santehtx.com

12 Pho Prime This build-your-own-pho concept combines an interactive dining experience with the rich, authentic flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Customers can also order bun bo, vermicelli bowls and the signature

pho dip sandwich. • Opening Feb. 22 • 5353 W. Alabama St., Ste. 107, Houston • www.phoprime.com

13 Swish Dental The Austin-based company announced a new Montrose location in December. The dental office provides regular cleanings, implants, teeth whitening and fillings. • Opening in summer • 3230 Yoakum Blvd., Houston • www.swishsmiles.com 14 Mayahuel This new Mexico City-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar will open in Autry Park with a menu that showcases Mexican street food and fine dining.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

• Opening in summer • 811 Buffalo Park Drive, Ste. 130, Houston • www.culinarykhancepts.com

In the news

Coming soon

18 Backstreet Cafe The family-owned restaurant closed its original location in January to prepare to relocate to a new River Oaks

15 Haii Keii The new Asian-inspired restaurant will feature dishes such as Peking Duck, Japanese milk bread, maki, sashimi, small plates and Wagyu selections. • Opening mid-February • 3300 Kirby Drive Ste. 9A, Houston • www.haiikeii.com 16 Bahama Bucks The Texas-based company offers shaved ice, island smoothies, Red Bull infusions, frozen coffee drinks, blended sodas and acai bowls. • Opening late February • 2702 Yale St., Ste. 100, Houston • www.bahamabucks.com 17 JetSet Pilates This Pilates studio will hold 50-minute, reformer-based workouts set to curated music playlists and combine strength training, cardio, conditioning and Pilates movements. • Opening in summer • 3515 W. Dallas St., Houston • www.jetsetpilates.com/river-oaks

location that will open in the fall. • 1201 S. Shepherd Drive, Houston • www.backstreetcafe.net

Closings

19 EQ Heights The cafe closed in December after 10 years of service due to new building owners not resigning the company’s lease. EQ Heights owner Kevin Blasini said he is exploring options to relocate the operation. • Closed Dec. 29 • 1030 Heights Blvd., Houston • www.eqheights.com 20 Elro Pizza & Crudo The Montrose staple closed on New Year’s Eve after a year and a half of business. The restaurant served pizza, appetizers and salads. • Closed Dec. 31 • 2405 Genesee St., Houston

21 Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina The new River Oaks location will mark the restaurant’s fourth Houston opening and will include a unique adjoining tequila-forward bar called Bar Buena that will feature a cavern-like atmosphere and an agave-focused menu. • Opening in March

• 2002 W. Gray St., Houston • ww.kitchenandcantina.com

Houston Installation Services

H.I.S. TAKES THE OFFICE SETUP OUT OF YOUR HANDS SERVICE LIST

• Office reconfiguration • Any furniture setup

• Artwork/Signage installation • Furniture disposal/donation • Intra-office moves • Warehousing/Storage

FREE QUOTE

TWO OPTIONS IN THE HEART OF THE CITY! THE LOOP CAMPUS 7401 KATY FREEWAY SUNDAYS @ 9:15A, 11A & 4P

GREGG MATTE, SENIOR PASTOR LEON BROOKS III, DOWNTOWN CAMPUS PASTOR HOUSTONSFIRST.ORG

EXPERTS AT ANY TASK - FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING SPACE PLANNING SERVICES - CERTIFICATE OF INSURANCE WOMEN OWNED CERTIFICATION CALL TODAY & SCHEDULE (713) 462-7067

DOWNTOWN CAMPUS 1730 JEFFERSON STREET SUNDAYS @ 9:30A & 11A

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Transportation

BY KEVIN VU

White Oak Bayou elevation project begins The White Oak Bayou elevation project o of I-10 in Houston began Jan. 8. About the project The $347 million Texas Department of Transpor- tation project is intended to make improvements along the nearly two-mile stretch of I-10 from Heights Boulevard to I-45 to mitigate future ooding. The project scope includes elevating lanes in each direction, creating an inside lane and installing a 14-foot-wide HOV lane in each direction. Additionally, the project will include constructing a 26-acre detention pond and a shared-use path connecting to the existing trail system. More details According to a Jan. 9 news release from TxDOT, the westbound Taylor Street exit and the entrance ramp will be closed during construction as well as two of

I10 Katy Corridor study granted $2M Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones announced in a Jan. 13 news release that Precinct 4 received a $2 million grant for its I-10 Inner Katy Cap Park study. What you need to know The study will assess the feasibility of creating a community-supported cap park throughout a 3.2-mile stretch of I-10 from White Oak Bayou to Old Katy Road. Luis Guajardo, director of planning and community development for Precinct 4, said a cap park project essentially creates a series of pocket parks above the highway in key north or south connector streets such as Shepherd Drive, T.C. Jester, Heights Boule- vard and Yale Street. Guajardo said the study is likely to begin toward the end of 2026 or early 2027.

1 Taylor Street exit ramp (closed) 2 Taylor Street entrance ramp (closed) 3 Houston Avenue bridge (removed) 4 M-K-T hike and bike trail (temporarily eected) Road closures

HOUSTON AVE,

WHITE OAK BAYOU

HOGAN ST.

M-K-T trail

GLASER DR.

White Oak Bayou Greenway trail WHITE OAK BAYOU

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONCOMMUNITYIMPACT

the ve westbound lanes. TxDOT’s Public Information Ocer Kristina Hadley said the closures will remain until the project is completed at the end of 2028. Hadley said the Houston Avenue bridge will also be removed and reconstructed under I-10.

Your Texas property tax experts, helping you lower your property tax bill for 36 years Texas Protax consultants are regulated by The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, P.O. Box 12157, Austin, Texas 78711 | 1-800-803-9202, 512-463-6599 | www.license.state.tx.us/complaints

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY WESLEY GARDNER

HISD retroactively approves $870M in purchasing agreements Houston ISD board managers retroactively approved roughly $870 million in purchasing agreements following Superintendent Mike Miles’ admission that the agreements had been green-lit without board approval, which is in violation of district policy. The details Board managers retroactively approved more than 130 purchasing agreements during their Jan. 16 meeting. During a Jan. 13 news conference, Miles said a group of unnamed employees violated district policy after failing to submit projects secured through purchasing cooperatives to the board for approval over the course of 16 months. Miles noted the employees erroneously believed

Sandi Massey picked as chief of schools

The approved $870M HISD purchasing agreements vary widely in scope and cost, including:

Up to $100 million

Up to $45 million

Houston ISD ocials announced the appointment of Sandi Massey to serve as the district’s chief of schools in an eort to ensure high-

in technology purchases from Netsync Network Solutions

in food purchases through multiple food vendors

Up to $50 million

Up to $20 million

quality instruction across the district’s 273 campuses. The details In a Jan. 7 news release, ocials said Massey will support and oversee the dis- trict’s four division chiefs in her new role. Ocials noted Massey’s responsibilities in the new role will include: • Analyzing data to identify and implement school improvement strategies • Collaborating with educators • Building long-term strategies • Providing guidance to school leaders Sandi Massey

for heating- and cooling- system repairs through multiple HVAC vendors

for temporary buildings from Aries Building Systems

SOURCE: HOUSTON ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

the agreements did not require board approval. He maintained no laws were broken and that correc- tive actions would be taken. A closer look Miles said the agreements had been secured through purchasing cooperatives, which allow government entities to approve purchases of goods or services from pre-approved vendors.

(18 weeks, no classes during Spring Break)  READING & WRITING  MATH  PUBLIC SPEAKING AND DEBATE  TEST PREPARATION

REGISTRATION

Offering offi c e sp ac e & executive suites

- Small groups (3

students to 1 teacher ratio)

- Private tutoring Classes are divided by age/level groups (placement

QR code below: tests are required) REGISTER USING THE QR CODE

Please register, using

the

LEARNING AND TUTORING CENTER Reading & Writing • Math • Test Preperation Public Speaking and Debate MON - FRI: 4PM - 8 PM SAT: 11AM - 5PM

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

713-955-1260 riveroaks@spidersmart.com

RIVEROAKS@SPIDERSMART.COM - 2055 WESTHEIMER, #115, HOUSTON, TX 77098

story YOUR BUSINESS HAS A

PROSPERITY BANK PLAZA

Hire Storytelling to write and share it. (866) 989-6808 | ads@communityimpact.com

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

HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

FIRST EDITION!

A TOUR OF THE STATE, MADE ESPECIALLY FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT FEBRUARY 2025

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

EXCURSIONS: A Port Aransas Quest CRITTER: Black-Tailed Prairie Dog OUT THERE: Meanwhile, in Texas MADE IN TEXAS: A Western Wear Pair FEATURE PREVIEW: Panhandle Fires, One Year Later

Above: Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, in Port Aransas.

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

TEXAS MONTHLY FEBRUARY 2025

Dear Fellow Texan, WELCOME

I couldn’t be prouder and more excited to bring you this special edition of Texas Monthly ’s February issue within the pages of Community Impact . One great Texas institution meets another. Community Impact and Texas Monthly have shared goals: to equip you with the news and perspectives that help you understand your state and your neighborhood and inspire you to engage with the people and places that surround you. Each month, we’ll provide you a kind of sampler of what Texas Monthly has to offer. Food, drink, travel, critters, and a taste of some of the award-winning storytelling Texas Monthly is known for. Enjoy the next few pages, thank you for welcoming us into your home, and please consider subscribing to Texas Monthly. —ROSS McCAMMON

EXCURSIONS Among the Craniacs North America’s tallest bird stalks Port Aransas once again. Its fans are back too. BY ROSE CAHALAN

I'M LEANING ON the rail of the Scat Cat, a red-and-white charter fishing boat in Aran- sas Bay, when two bottlenose dolphins leap majestically out of the water alongside our wake. The midday February sun gleams on their fins as the pair chases us. “Look!” I shout. A few of my sixty or so fellow passengers turn to watch, but this is only a warm-up for the real stars of the show: the whooping cranes. Today’s tour is part of the Whooping Crane Festival, an annual four-day winter celebra- tion of one of the continent’s rarest avian

species—and its tallest. About two thousand birders have descended on Port Aransas, a Gulf Coast town of around 2,900 residents on Mustang Island, for the twenty-seventh iteration, which is packed with more than fifty events, including birding tours and lectures by scientists. (This year’s festival happens February 20–23.) Before the arrival of European settlers, more than ten thousand of these birds soared across the continent, but habitat destruction and overhunting drove them to the brink. By

EDITOR IN CHIEF, TEXAS MONTHLY

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Its Reputation As a Ranch Pest Is Changing. The most common of the five species of prairie dogs in North America, these charismatic creatures today inhabit only about 2 percent of their native range, which once covered roughly 100 million acres of the Great Plains. Agriculture and urban development have consumed much of that habitat, and some ranch- ers, worried that these prairie dogs were competing with cattle for grass, exter- minated them. It turns out, though, that they are beneficial for grasslands. SO HOW DO THEY HELP? Prairie dogs nibble down the woody shrubs that could hide their predators and that often take over grasslands. This preserves habitat for birds and animals such as pronghorn. Plus, the rodents’ digging mixes and aerates the soil, and their scat provides nutrients. HOW DO WE KNOW FOR SURE? Scientists collected data from a group of GPS collar–wearing cattle that grazed on three pastures within a pre- serve. In warm seasons, the herd spent more time on the prairie dog colony than in areas outside it. I HEARD THEY CARRY PLAGUE. IS THAT TRUE? Prairie dogs are susceptible to the syl- vatic plague, caused by the same bac- terium as the bubonic plague. But it’s primarily fleas, not rodents, that spread it. At a respectful distance, you can en- joy them without fear. —Robyn Ross CRITTER BLACK�TAILED PRAIRIE DOG

early efforts to revive whooping cranes with captive breeding. During several breeding seasons in the late seventies and early eight- ies, he even lived in a shed with a female crane named Tex, who had imprinted on humans after hatching at the San Antonio Zoo. “Cranes require a great deal of space,” Ar- chibald said. “Each species selects a different type of wetland or grassland.” Unfortunately, those are some of the most easily destroyed habitats: With no trees to cut down, develop- ers can simply pave them over. Captive breed- ing has played a crucial role in the comeback of the species. In the past decade, the Dallas Zoo has picked up the baton, as one of seven organizations in the U.S. and Canada to carry on Archibald’s legacy of breeding baby whoop- ing cranes to release in the wild.

1941 only 21 whooping cranes were left in the wild. Today, after decades of extensive conservation work, there are about 700 wild whoopers left. Wherever there are cranes, there are crani- acs. The birders who visit Port Aransas—“We estimate the economic impact to be near $1 million,” says Brett Stawar, president and CEO of the town’s tourism bureau—bring with them an intense enthusiasm. The undisputed king of the craniacs is George Archibald, the 78-year-old cofounder of the International Crane Foundation. Archibald was a leader in

A birder at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, in Port Aransas, on December 14, 2024; birders in Port Aransas; a sign at the preserve.

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

January 18-February 14

Give your loved one the ultimate symbol of endless love… a hissing cockroach.

Stop by the Museum Store to visit our Valentine's Roach Motel!

Endless Love supports conservation efforts of the Cockrell Butterfly Center

Purchase and dedicate a cockroach at hmns.org/endlesslove

TEXAS MONTHLY FEBRUARY 2025

MADE IN TEXAS

All Loud on the Western Wear Front With its bold colors and modern designs, the Kennimer label is drawing the attention of pop stars and New York Fashion Week.

Meanwhile, In Texas OUT THERE

BY TAYLOR PREWITT

A video of a horse riding in the back seat of a pickup truck in Fort Worth went viral on social media, with one viewer commenting “living in fort worth this normal to me at this point.” A woman in Dallas booked a rental car for one day, then drove to Wash- ington State and continued to use the vehicle for 46 days , telling Spokane authorities that she didn’t return the car because she was too busy. Claiming to be a member of the U.S. Army’s Delta Force special opera- tions unit, a man from Manor de- frauded victims of more than $12 million by falsely telling them that they were at risk of violence from drug cartels and offering “protec- tion” in exchange for money. A Richardson resident was named CNN’s 2024 Hero of the Year for running a nonprofit in North Texas that helps people going into treat- ment for addiction find temporary homes for their dogs. Billionaire Tilman Fertitta became the first restaurateur in Texas to of fer A5 Wagyu bone-in ribeyes from the Kagoshima region of Japan, which he sells at one of his Houston steakhouses for $1,000 each. Researchers at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi detect- ed low levels of fentanyl and other pharmaceuticals in the blubber of dolphins swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. —Meher Yeda

while Ben, who hails from the small East Tex- as town of Latch and previously worked in graphic design, handles the hats. They jump in to help each other with tedious tasks such as adding rhinestones or handsewing when needed. “We’ve always just worked well to- gether,” Ben says, recalling early collabora- tive projects that included a hot dog–cart side hustle and a screen-printing business. They work as a team to conceive a collection’s overarching look and theme. The couple are motivated by their network of musician friends, many of whom have be- come clients. “We’re excited to show people it’s not a trend,” says Bonnie of Western style. “It’s a staple.” They’re looking forward to de- buting a few couture looks in New York. Some of the pieces, which incorporate subtle nods to the Victorian era (such as high collars and covered buttons), are so intricate that they required around seventy hours of detailed handsewing.

IN LESS THAN a decade, Ben and Bonnie Kennimer have gone from teaching them- selves hat making and clothing design to cus- tomizing looks for some of music’s biggest stars. Their eponymous Western wear label, which they founded in Houston in 2017, is fa- vored by Fort Worth songwriter and soul sing- er Leon Bridges, the Houston trio Khruang- bin, DJ and producer Diplo, and pop star Joe Jonas. One of Bonnie’s dresses, for renowned songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jenee Fleenor, is housed at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame. And this February the couple will take their creations to a New York Fashion Week runway for the first time. Now based in Bonnie’s hometown of Aus- tin, the married couple splits the work down the middle: Bonnie, who has a background in costuming and tailoring, designs the clothes,

Ben and Bonnie Kennimer.

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

TEXANS’ #1 CHOICE Baths • Showers • Doors Walk-In Tubs • Windows

M-39963

TEXAS MONTHLY FEBRUARY 2025

An estimated 15,000 head of cattle were killed in the Panhandle fires of February 2024.

flag warnings, an alert the National Weath- er Service issues a few dozen times a year in the Panhandle when a combination of strong winds and low humidity increases the risk of extreme wildfire. Though rain had been plentiful that winter and grass was thriving, unseasonably warm February temperatures had dried it out quickly. What should have beenarancher’sblessing—bountifulfieldsfor grazing—had instead turned into something ominous: “fuel load.” Adam, a 31-year-old with a slight build, shag- gy brown hair, and bright blue eyes, has the plumb posture of a man who takes pride in his work.He’dstartedpreppingforfireseasonthe week before, securing insurance for most of the 712 cattle he owned with his wife, Aubrie, a 30-year-old with sympathetic brown eyes and strawberry blond hair. They’d decided against paying the higher premiums to cover the full herd, largely because they’d made it through the previous five seasons unburned. Adam was no stranger to fire risks. The youngest of two boys, he’d known he want- ed to be in the cattle business since he was a five-year-old playing with a toy Ford pickup that was identical to the one his dad drove around their family’s ranch in Canadian, an almost utopian hamlet of 2,300 in the rolling sand hills and caprocks northeast of Amarillo. Adam earned a degree in ranch management at Texas Tech University. That’s where he met Aubrie, the daughter of an accountant and a rodeo competitor turned professor who’d given up horses when his children were born. To read the full story, please subscribe to Texas Monthly .

WHEN THE TOWERING black plume first sprouted on the western horizon, it wasn’t much cause for alarm. The sky in the north- eastern Panhandle is near-boundless, and from his Hemphill County ranch Adam Isaacs often spottedsmokefromfiresthatwereahundred miles away. Few of them ever threatened his property. This one, he knew, had gotten started roughly seventy miles west, and though the winds were blowing his way, the flames had a lot of ground to cover before Adam would allow himself to get concerned. His land, his livestock, his loved ones—none were at risk. Not right away. But the potential was there. That Monday morning, February 26, had brought one of the 2024 fire season’s first red

FEATURE PREVIEW

Where There’s Smoke After last year’s historic Panhandle inferno, Adam and Aubrie Isaacs are among the many ranchers in the region weighing how—and whether—to carry on. BY EMILY McCULLAR

READ THIS FEATURE AND MORE IN THE FEBRUARY ISSUE TK AUDIENCE SPACE

Enjoying what you read? Subscribe to Texas Monthly for just $9 and never miss a story! Join our proud community of Texans—written by Texans, for Texans, for over 50 years.

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Government

BY CASSANDRA JENKINS, EMILY LINCKE & KEVIN VU

Homebuyer aid program gets increased funding Houston officials approved an updated guideline for the Harvey Homebuyer Assistance program Jan. 15, allowing those impacted during Hurricane Harvey to purchase a home with city assistance. City Council unanimously approved the update for the $18 million program—what the city is calling HbAP 2.0—to provide funding to low-in- come, first-time homebuyers for down payment assistance, closing costs and principal buydown. What changed? The original program, approved by City Council on Jan. 9, 2019, offered up to $30,000 to income-qualified, first-time homebuyers. With the new program, the amount has increased to a range of $50,000 to $125,000 depending on the compliance period—the required number of years the property must be the homeowner’s primary residence—according to city documents.

County mandates power backups at assisted living, nursing facilities Under a new fire code, the roughly 120 assisted living and nursing facilities located in unincorpo- rated Harris County will have until Jan. 1, 2026 to add emergency backup power systems, county leaders announced Jan. 8. The overview Harris County is the first in Texas to implement this fire code, which is designed to keep vulnera- ble senior populations safe during emergencies, Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen said Jan. 8. Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones said the requirement for backup power systems will allow: • Safe facility temperatures to be maintained • Vital medical devices to be powered • Medications to be preserved

HUD allocates $314M for Beryl recovery The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced Jan. 7 that Houston will receive $314 million for disaster relief related to Hurricane Beryl and the May flood in 2024. What it means The funding is intended to support disas- ter relief and assist in long-term recovery in the most impacted areas. According to a news release, the funding can be used to: • Replace damaged affordable housing and build it back more resiliently • Strengthen infrastructure, including roadways, water systems and utilities • Support economic revitalization • Implement disaster mitigation measures for future weather and disaster events

County invests $10.1M in solar panel project Harris County is one step closer to launching a $10.1 million pilot project to install solar panels at libraries and commu- nity centers following a unanimous vote by Harris County Commissioners on Jan. 9. What’s happening? Harris County’s two-phase Distributed Energy Resources pilot aims to make county facilities “less reliant on the electricity grid” and more resistant to power outages during weather events, according to Jan. 9 meeting documents. The project calls for solar panels, battery storage and dual-port electric vehicle charging stations. Construction on Phase I of the energy pilot is slated to begin in January and wrap up by the first quarter of 2026.

The new fire code was approved following Winter Storm Uri and Hurricane Beryl—which induced widespread power outages—and resulted in:

Who qualifies?

A single parent who owned a marital home which is now owned by the former spouse An individual who has only owned a property that was not permanently affixed to a foundation An individual who has only owned a property that was not in compliance with local or state building codes An individual who is replacing a home that was lost during Hurricane Harvey

At least 1 senior death due to extreme heat during Hurricane Beryl 14 nursing homes and 30 assisted living facilities in Harris County losing power for several days during Hurricane Beryl 10% of nursing homes and nearly 33% of assisted living facilities across Texas losing power during Winter Storm Uri 100 senior deaths due to hypothermia in Texas during Winter Storm Uri

SOURCE: HOUSTON HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

Houston Housing Director Mike Nichols said the new program is expected to assist 200 households. Next steps Ariel Buford, a public information officer for the Housing and Community Development Department, said in an email that the department anticipates the program starting in late February, shortly after a contract amendment is finalized with the Texas General Land Office.

SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY PRECINCT 4/COMMUNITY IMPACT

• Emergency communications to be made • Evacuations to be safer

Facilities will be given one year to get into com- pliance with the new fire code, and county leaders plan to provide guidance and support during the transition, Briones said.

LOWER PRICES on HUNDREDS OF WINES In-Store ONLY 2/1 - 3/1 No Limit on Quantities While Supplies Last

WINES · SPIRITS · FINER FOODS FINER FOODS Ches to Savings! ®

HUGE WINE SALE

HOUSTON SUPERSTORE 2410 Smith Street (713) 526-8787

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

SHEPHERD 1900 S Shepherd (713) 529-4849

Store selections vary. Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors. SPECSONLINE.COM

Offering Curbside, In-Store Pickup & Delivery

Dining

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Matthew and Thy Mitchell celebrate cuisine from their global travels at their Montrose restaurant.

COURTESY TRAVELER'S TABLE

Traveler's Table brunch menu includes duck chilaquiles ($26) and crab samosas ($17) .

ASIA ARMOURCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Traveler’s Table balances foreign, familiar avors Matthew and Thy Mitchell are husband and wife, world travelers, foodies and the owners of Montrose eatery Traveler’s Table. The Mitchells pay homage to more than 30

Traveler’s Table’s cocktails represent the restaurant’s food philosophy to balance foreign and familiar avors.

plates and desserts from all over the globe. The eatery’s duck cont risotto gained popularity when it beat celebrity chef Bobby Flay on his Food Network show. When restaurateur Guy Fieri visited Traveler’s Table in 2021, the restaurant gained national notoriety for its crispy pork belly and crab samosas, Matthew Mitchell said. In their own words One of Thy Mitchell’s favorite dishes is the Singa- porean soft-shell crab, which she believes perfectly encapsulates the concept of taking a traditional dish and translating it for a Montrose audience. “We always try to balance it to where it’s still exciting, but ... with our twists on it,” she said.

COURTESY BECCA WRIGHT

dierent cultures with their eclectic menu, which was developed by a team of chefs and has rotated seasonally since the restaurant opened in October 2019, Matthew Mitchell said. “[Our] food philosophy is to take traditional dishes from around the world and then modernize them,” he said. “We feel like that’s been our sweet spot—kind of this balance of foreign and familiar.” What’s special about it? Traveler’s Table features cocktails, entrees, small

STHEIMER RD.

520 Westheimer Road, Houston www.travelerstable.com

Want a sales career with purpose & connection? Exciting Opportunity: Advertising Sales position in the growing Bellaire, Meyerland, West U area.

Jason Culpepper Market President

Laytoamb Wiggins Chief Talent Officer

hr@communityimpact.com Contact our team today!

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY ASIA ARMOUR

celebrates Women’s History Month by promoting all women composers from the DACAMERA Young Artists program. Performances feature a variety of chamber music and jazz, and the audience can enjoy lunch while listening. • March 5, noon-1 p.m. • Free (admission) • 501 Texas Ave., Houston • www.dacamera.com A Night of Jazz The Houston Choral Society will explore a variety of jazz music at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in River Oaks. • March 7, 7:30 p.m. • $15-$30; Free (kids 12 years and under)

February

Art Lovers of Houston This second annual event at the Art League Houston will feature art-inspired cocktails, art activities, casino games and raffles, light bites and live music. • Feb. 15, 6-9 p.m. • $125 (general admission), $250 (VIP admission) Chef Dinner Series at The Post Oak Hotel This monthly series showcases the culinary artistry of The Post Oak Hotel’s award-winning chef. February’s installment takes place at Bloom & Bee and includes a six-course menu inspired by Italy. • Feb. 20-22, 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. • $148.25 • Bloom & Bee, 1600 W. Loop S., Houston • Eventbrite: February Chef Dinner Series at The Post Oak Hotel • 1953 Montrose Blvd., Houston • www.artleaguehouston.org

• 3471 Westheimer Road, Houston • www.houstonchoralsociety.org

Lunar New Year - Tier Jong Show Celebrate the Year of the Snake at The Park in the River Oaks District shopping center. The Tier Jong Show group will perform high-energy acrobatics to bring in the Lunar New Year and immerse Houstonians in Asian culture and tradition.

Silver Street Open Art Show Every third Saturday, Silver Street Studios hosts more than 60 international artists who work in mediums including painting, drawing, fine art photography,

• Feb. 15, 2:30 p.m. • Free (admission)

jewelery and sculpture. • March 15, noon-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • 2000 Edwards St., Houston • www.sawyeryards.com

March

• 4444 Westheimer Road, Houston • www.riveroaksdistrict.com/events

A Little Day Music: Hear Herstory The free concert series at the Wortham Theater Center

live your best sex life Know your HIV care options and DO IT ANYWHERE, ANYTIME Getting tested for HIV is quick, easy, and FREE!

FINE EUROPEAN GREENHOUSES, PAVILIONS COMPOSTERS - GERMAN RAIN BARRELS - MORE National Distributor, Locally Owned

Learn more at LegacyHIV.org

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM! 16001 Impact Way, Pflugerville 512-407-8500 • www.exaco.com Regular Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am - 5pm Call for weekend appointments

HEIGHTS - RIVER OAKS - MONTROSE EDITION

Talking tourism From the cover

1 Astrodome The Astrodome Conservancy revealed plans for a $1 billion development in November called “Vision Astrodome” that would feature four buildings inside the arena. The new revitalization plans include: • Creating 450,000 square feet of revenue-generating space • A new event floor inside the Astrodome • A boulevard connecting people from the Astrodome to NRG Park • Additional parking, storage, service and animal handling facilities The Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation also approved a cost analysis in November as part of the ongoing master plan process to study the cost of restoring the Astrodome to basic operational functionality and to assess the cost of removing it. 2 NRG Arena HCSCC approved design studies for NRG Arena in August that resulted in four conceptual plans ranging from $538 million to $1.2 billion. Potential designs include a new arena with: • A 360-degree view with premium seating options, concourse clubs and suites • A multiuse pavilion to accommodate the Houston Rodeo, concerts and sports events • An upgraded exposition hall and additional exhibition space • Potential to convert the ground floor into an ice hockey rink HCSCC has not approved design plans as of press time, corporation ocials said. However, the four dierent architectural companies’ timelines in the design plan presentations show completion dates that range from 2028 to 2040. 3 Toyota Center The Houston Rockets debuted enhancements made in October to the Toyota Center, including a new scoreboard, 6,200-square-foot LED display and renovated PNC Club. Additionally, the Harris County- Houston Sports Authority board approved a facility condition assessment in October to determine what upgrades can be made to the aging structure. 4 Daikin Park The HCHSA approved a $6.5 million package in December for a seating bowl study and design work at Daikin Park, formerly known as Minute Maid Park, to replace all 41,000 seats at the stadium as well as the roof at the atrium level and all signage and branding at the ballpark to reect the new naming rights, which became eective Jan. 1. George R. Brown Convention Center The Houston First Corporation approved an expansion project of the George R. Brown Convention Center in August to modernize and expand the 37-year-old convention center. Details include: • A new south building with additional parking, exhibition halls and ballrooms • More green space and sidewalks on the eastern side of Downtown Houston • Improved infrastructure for pedestrian and vehicle flow Construction is anticipated to start on the potentially $2 billion project in early 2025 and wrap up in summer 2028, CEO Michael Heckman said.

Funding the project

The big picture

Proposed plans for the dierent convention and sports centers will cost billions of dollars over the next several decades. However, project ocials believe that many of the renovations will not fall on taxpayers. Funding for the $2 billion expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center will come through the state’s portion of incremental hotel occupancy tax revenue, Heckman said. Astrodome Conservancy Chair Phoebe Tudor speculates that the Astrodome’s status as a Texas historical landmark could leverage private invest- ment funding and minimize public investment. For the possible redesign of NRG Arena, HCSCC CEO Martye Kendrick said funding sources are currently being evaluated, but the corporation will not be sharing details until a later date.

RENDERING COURTESY GENSLER

Measuring the impact

Economically, four of the ve venues bring in millions of dollars in revenue each year with major events such as the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four and the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo bringing in additional revenue. Houston also broke several tourism records last year, including the number of visitors, the number of hotel rooms booked for future years and the amount of hotel occupancy tax collected, according to the Houston First Corporation. In 2024, Houston collected $112.9 million in HOT funds, a 7% increase from 2023. According to the Texas Comptroller’s website, HOT funds must be used to promote tourism and the convention and hotel industries. Economic impact Direct economic impact is made up of additional money spent in a local area from event-related visitors, including the cost of hotels, food and transportation.

RENDERING COURTESY POPULOUS

COURTESY HOUSTON ROCKETS

NCAA Final Four (2023): MLB World Series (2021): Super Bowl LI (2017):

$347M

$25M

$270M

CFP National Championship (2024): Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo (2024):

$597M

$200M

SOURCES: HOUSTON SUPER BOWL HOST COMMITTEE, HOUSTON FIRST CORPORATION, HARRIS COUNTYHOUSTON SPORTS AUTHORITY, HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW & RODEO COMMUNITY IMPACT

RENDERING COURTESY HOUSTON ASTROS

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CASSANDRA JENKINS

Who it aects

Stay tuned

Walsh said hosting major events in Houston provides the city an opportunity to boost local businesses and enhance the community through the Buy Houston: By Houston program, which connects local suppliers with opportunities surrounding high-prole events. Two Houston-area businesses that have been used in the past include ACME Party & Tent, a party equipment rental company located just outside of Meyerland, and Signature Aspen, a commercial printing business near the Heights. “What we try to do is encourage local busi- nesses to register as a vendor, and if an event does come in with a need, … we have a list of vendors that we’re ready to give to that event producer to utilize,” Walsh said. “That provides a local edge that other cities may not have.” Kendrick said large event organizers and enter- tainers also often make contributions to local nonprots. In 2017, the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee and NFL donated $4 million to 78

Houston ocials hope to bring millions of visitors to the city in the upcoming years and are beginning to prepare for major sports tournaments and conventions.

“Bringing tourism to Houston through a complex like NRG Park is essential because it fuels economic growth,

creates job opportunities and enhances the city and county’s reputation as a global destination.” MARTYE KENDRICK, CEO, HCSCC

2025

May: DreamCon, the largest Black-owned anime and gaming convention in the U.S., George R. Brown Convention Center June-July: Gold Cup, the regional championship game for international soccer teams, Shell Energy Stadium March: World Baseball Classic, Daikin Park June-July: FIFA World Cup, NRG Stadium

2026

2027

Houston organizations, including the Montrose Counseling Center, a community center that empowers LGBTQ+ individuals in Houston. The College Football Foundation also raised over $3 million for Houston-area teachers in 2024 that went toward classroom resources, profes- sional development and classroom renovations, Walsh said.

TBD: Republican National Convention, Toyota Center

2028

SOURCES: HARRIS COUNTYHOUSTON SPORTS AUTHORITY, HOUSTON FIRST CORPORATION, HARRIS COUNTY SPORTS AND CONVENTION CORPORATIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Reach out today and we’ll create a care team for you that includes nurses, clinicians, and your primary care doctor — all in one place. Our team will get to understand all the factors that affect your health so they can give you the very best care for your conditions. You get their time, you get their attention, you get the help you need.

Looking for a doctor? Ours are ready to see you now.

• Walk-ins welcome • Same-day appointments • Virtual visits • Extended hours offered at some locations • Medicare accepted at all Village Medical locations

Call 713.589.3999 or scan the code to schedule an appointment today. VillageMedical.com

Three convenient locations to serve you:

Village Medical at Greenway 4120 Southwest Fwy Ste200

Village Medical - River Oaks 4543 Post Oak Place, Ste. 105 Houston, TX 77027 M - F: 8am - 4:30pm

Village Medical - Heights South 600 N. Shepherd Dr. , Bldg 5, Ste. 530

Houston, TX 77027 M - F: 7am - 6pm

Houston, TX 77007 M - F: 8am - 5pm

VM0453-0524

HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION

Learn more about school funding issues and how they affect your local schools. THE 89 TH LEGISLATIVE SESSION IS HERE

Ad paid by Raise Your Hand Texas

RaiseYourHandTexas.org/school-funding

Want a sales career with purpose & connection? Exciting Opportunity: General Manager position in the growing Heights/River Oaks/Montrose area.

Jason Culpepper Market President

Laytoamb Wiggins Chief Talent Officer

hr@communityimpact.com Contact our team today!

As your public health system, we’re here for those in need. In a region with so many unable to afford insurance, it’s a monumental responsibility. And a distinct privilege. We provide all our patients exceptional medical, mental health, dental and vision care, along with vital outreach programs and resources. Because it protects the health and safety of our entire community. Because it’s the right thing to do. You may not know our name. And that’s okay.

YOU’LL KNOW US BY THE WORK WE DO.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s carnival ride tickets are sold separately at the rodeo grounds.

The rodeo features several competitions ranging from livestock and horse shows to art.

PHOTOS COURTESY HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW AND RODEO

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo returns Since 1932, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has promoted agriculture by hosting an annual rodeo that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage and provides year-round educational support within the community. What to expect

The rodeo’s entertainment lineup includes rock, country, pop, regional Mexican and Christian artists.

of an NRG Park admission ticket or a rodeo and concert ticket, per the website. Concert attendees can select from 20 perfor- mances with performers, such as Luke Bryan and Post Malone, which were announced Jan. 9. Grounds tickets are $21 online and include admission to NRG Park but do not allow entrance into NRG Stadium for the rodeo and concert performances. Carnival admission is included with the purchase of a grounds ticket, however, carnival tickets must be purchased separately and are $1.25 each. Most rides require three to eight tickets each.

Dates to know Ahead of the HLSR season, rodeo enthusiasts can look forward to several pre-rodeo events including: Feb. 27-March 1: The 2025 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest features over 250 teams. Feb. 28: On Go Texan Day, the unocial kicko of the HLSR, the Houston community is invited to celebrate Western heritage to raise awareness of Rodeo season. March 1: The Rodeo Run precedes the Downtown Rodeo Parade and kicks o with a wheelchair race, followed by a 5K and 10K. The parade will feature decorative oats with thousands of men and women on horseback as well as marching bands.

Held from March 4-23, the HLSR will be show- casing a livestock show, a horse show, auctions, a carnival and carnival food. Attendees can purchase single-day carnival admission, season tickets or performance tickets. Carnival admission is included with the purchase

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