![Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015
2
B y K a t i e T o n g
Not even the stroke of midnight
couldstopthemarathonmeetingof
West University’s Zoning Board
of Adjustment (ZBA) which began
at 6:30 p.m. on March 26 and is-
sued a preliminary decision in the
breaking hours of the following
morning.
Despitehoursofquestioningthat
indicated the Board was leaning
their way, residents’ hopes for a
denial of West U. Baptist Church’s
zoning request turned back into a
pumpkinastheBoardunanimously
approved the church’s application.
Thursday’smeeting,whereinthe
ZBA considered West University
Baptist Church’s request for a Spe-
cial Exception that would allow
themtoconstructaYouthCenterat
3826 Milton Street, with a similar
Exception requested for a parking
loton3821and3831Amherst,was
originally slated for the February
agenda, but had been postponed
until this date.
The board spent considerable
time discussing whether or not to
delay consideration again due to
Notices filed by West U. Baptist
the previous day claiming exemp-
tion from zoning procedures based
on laws protecting religious wor-
ship.
In the Notices filed the after-
noon of Mar. 25, West U. Baptist
argued that constitutional law,
whichsupersedesCityOrdinances,
gives them the right to gather in a
place of worship without unrea-
sonable limitation, thus exempting
them from the requirement to ap-
ply for an exemption.
City Planner Debbie Scarcella
did not endorse the Notices how-
ever,writingthatsuchlaws“donot
totally eliminate the discretion of
the City’s Zoning Board of Adjust-
ment.”
Knowing that West U. Baptist
has 21 days to appeal the non-
endorsement of those Notices, the
ZBA decided to proceed with the
planned hearing with the under-
standing that any decision issued
would be preliminary and not en-
tered into official record until a
later date.
Therewasanadditionalquibble
astowhethertheBoardwouldhear
the applications for Milton Street
andAmhersttogetherorseparately.
ReidWilson,specialcouncilfor
the City as co-applicant for the
Milton request, opposed consoli-
dating the cases, while Brennan
Reilly, representing David
Kuykendall, pointed out that the
traffic study presented by the ap-
plicants takes both properties into
account .
“Thefavorableresult[ofthetraf-
ficstudy]isbasedentirelyuponthe
parking lot on Amherst,” said
Reilly,whosaidseparateconsider-
ation should require separate traf-
Marathon Meeting Produces Tentative Approval for West U. Church’s Plans
fic studies.
Ultimately the Board moved to
hear the evidence for both the
Milton and Amherst cases, to issue
separate decisions, but not to issue
adecisiononeitheruntilbothcases
had been presented.
Wilson spoke first for the appli-
cants, telling the Board to “remem-
bers how limited its jurisdiction
and authority is.”
“All the other things are just
background noise,” Wilson said,
likely referring to the vehement
resistance West U. City Council
has encountered regarding the pro-
posed land swap between the City
and West U. Baptist.
Regarding the church seeking
an Exception on Milton, land they
don’t currently own, Wilson called
this a “pretty standard situation,”
saying “It is common to get entitle-
ments in advance of property ac-
quisition.”
Wilson proceeded to outline the
requirementsforgrantingaSpecial
Exception. The church must prove
the proposed facility: (1) Causes
no significant increase in on-street
parkingandnosubstantialthreatof
congestion or increase in traffic;
(2) That there is no unreasonable
burden on public utility systems;
(3) That the use is accessory to a
primary lawful use; and (4) That it
is reasonably compatible with
nearby sites and their usage and
that it is in harmony with the gen-
eral purpose and intent of the zon-
ing ordinance.
DanLynchofTrafficEngineers,
Incorporated gave the results of his
trafficimpactanalysiswhichfound
“no significant negative impact”
on traffic or on-street parking.
Lynch’s results were based on
current usage numbers with a po-
tential 1% growth rate per year.
Lynchsaidtheearlyandlatechurch
servicesaveragearound220people
each, and West U. Baptist’s youth
group averages 50-78 attendees.
The proposed new youth facility
will accommodate just over 200,
while the church building has a
capacity of 668 seats.
Board member Ed Sobash in-
quired why Lynch’s study didn’t
analyze the upper limits of the ca-
pacity.
“Wouldn’t we want to look at
when it is full?” Sobash said. “The
traffic study kind of focuses on the
average, but the big capacity days,
it doesn’t really address that.”
“We can’t really design based
on the highest day, if we did that,
we’dbuildparkinggarages,”Lynch
said. “The bottom line is we just
don’t feel like there’s any signifi-
cant traffic impact.”
Board member Sandy Hellums
questioned Lynch at length regard-
ing how his numbers would be im-
pactedwerethecapacitytochange.
While standing behind his results,
Lynch admitted “if land use is dif-
ferent, yes, that would change the
study.”
Hellums then inquired, “If you
only have a 1% growth and you’re
functioning at half capacity and
havebeen,whatistheideaofneed-
ing 7,000 square feet now and an
additional 7,500 square feet in the
future if you weren’t looking to
expandyourprogrammingandpar-
ticipation?”
Pressed by the board, Pastor
Roger Patterson agreed that the
church would welcome growth. “It
is always our intent to reach more
people,”Pattersonsaid.“We’dlove
to reach as many people as we
can.”
“Do you have growth goals in
terms of numbers of participants in
your youth programs?” asked
Hellums.
“We do not have on record any-
where stated growth goal of num-
bers,” Patterson replied.
Hellums commented, “I’m be-
ing asked to accept conclusions
based on certain assumptions that
seem to me a bit inconsistent with
what seems to be clearly a goal to
expandyourservicesandyourpro-
gramming.”
Brennan Reilly and David
KuykendallalsoquestionedLynch
regarding the validity of his study.
Kuykendall pointed out that the
City did not have enough func-
See Approval page 13](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
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- 1. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 News & Notes March 31, 2015 By Michelle Leigh SmithBy Michelle Leigh SmithBy Michelle Leigh SmithBy Michelle Leigh SmithBy Michelle Leigh Smith A Turner Movie classic plays silently above the fireplace in the living room, just beyond two large Klieg lights. “We love the old Hollywood feel of the Klieg lights, and they set the stage for the vintage accents throughout our home,” says architect Trey Lewis of Boston. They also stand as an invitation to step beyond the pivot door into a unique space that has the feel of a John Ford film, both in expanse and sheer, raw beauty. All in all, there is a lot of magic going on. “Ittooksixmentomountthedoor.ItisfromawinerynorthofSanFrancisco,”saysCalvin Darbonne of Louisiana. “We had our welder resize the door to fit this part of the home. It’s a pivot door, made of steel that opens like a vault, so we took out some of the steel and replaced it with glass for a sleeker look.” Its texture fits well with the massive knotty alder wood beams and reclaimed open rafter ceiling inside. A wall of living plants eliminates the need for draperies. The 4,600 sq. ft. house at 3606 Sun Valley in Woodside inside the Loop is listed at $2.199M. Actual constructionwent on for two years, but the result encompasses preferences and skills accumulated between the entire lives of the both men. They named it Palo Verde, partly because of the view of the Palo Verde mesquite trees and because touches in the home are reminiscent of the Wild West. There’s a Richards trunk (made for Tom Richards) by Timothy Oulton from London in the living room that sits on a beige and cream cowhide from a Texas Longhorn on Lewis’ family ranch, the Oil Ranch in Waller County. In the guest bedroom, a set of vintage luggage that Lewis’ mother brought with her to the hospitalwherehewasborn. AweatheredIndianstatuestandsin thefoyer.“Hehas moved with me wherever I’ve moved,” says Lewis. “He is my talisman.” The Indian is not for sale. Trey Lewis and Calvin Darbonne have created a unique home in Woodside. Showplace Home Sets New Standard for Woodside See Showplace page 15 55th Annual Bellaire FFA Show and Livestock Auction The Bellaire High School will hold their 55th Annual Livestock Show on Thursday, April 9 at 5 p.m., and their Livestock Auction on Saturday, April 11 at 1 p.m. Admis- sion to both events is free. The Bellaire Livestock Show and Auction will take place under a big top tent about 10 minutes from Bellaire High School at the Bellaire FFA farm, 11611 Riceville School Road, (77031) off of W. Bellfort. Just look for the Red Barn. Plenty of parking will be available. On Thursday, students will show their animals before Bellaire FFA member Angelica Lara with the pig she is raising. a judge who will determine the Grand See FFA page 16 B y M i c h e l l e L e i g h S m i t h “It’s not very often you goheadtoheadwithTxDOT and get them to change their mindswhattheyhadcharged forward with,” says City Engineer James Andrews. “They had completed the entireproposaltoreconstruct the entire 610 interchange and they’ve been willing to scrap that and go back to the table and do what the City of Bellairewouldlikedo. There are good and bad with both, but overall the new Bellaire TxDOT Bellaire Proposal Update Includes Two- Lane Direct Connector at Grade, No Elevation proposal looks pretty favor- able. The next step is to get your opinion about it.” “After Bellaire City Council agreed to hire Jim Blackburn last year to help formulate arguments and convince Texas Department of Transportation to look at some other options for their plans,heputateamtogether. He had a noise consultant and we began to look at dif- ferent ways to attack a new interchange and reconstruc- tion of the Interstate 59 Northbound direct connec- tor. Bellaire Mayor Nauert setaseriesmeetingswithPat Gant, Pat Henry, several people from TxDOT. “We began to meet. Mayor Nauert brought Quincy Allen to the table, I think he’s Quincy’s dentist so he had him by the teeth, and we met on several occa- sions,” says Andrews. His presentation seemed to dif- fuse what a year ago seemed like, in Councilman Gus Pappas’words,“wasapretty hairy situation.” “TxDOT’s original pro- posalwastobuildanelevated ramp that was 25-35 feet high, all the way to the Fournace bridge above the feeder street, and you would not be able to exit Fournace. Heights at Saxon and Sun- burst would have been more than 25 ft. We talked about the elevation when I first showed you their plans and this elevated direct connec- tor was undesirable to City Vol. 27, No. 43 March 31, 2015 Locally-Owned and Invested in Our Communities for Over a Quarter CenturyLocally-Owned and Invested in Our Communities for Over a Quarter CenturyLocally-Owned and Invested in Our Communities for Over a Quarter CenturyLocally-Owned and Invested in Our Communities for Over a Quarter CenturyLocally-Owned and Invested in Our Communities for Over a Quarter Century Subscribe to Our E-Edition at www.village-southwest-news.comSubscribe to Our E-Edition at www.village-southwest-news.comSubscribe to Our E-Edition at www.village-southwest-news.comSubscribe to Our E-Edition at www.village-southwest-news.comSubscribe to Our E-Edition at www.village-southwest-news.com Serving Bellaire, Meyerland, Westbury, Willow Meadows, Willow Bend, Willowbrook, Post Oak Manor, Maplewood and other Southwest Houston areas. See TxDOT page 16 B y M i c h e l l e L e i g h S m i t h During a workshop prior to the Monday night council meeting, Sheila Condon shared with Bellaire City Council that she and Direc- tor of Parks, Recreation and Facilities Karl Miller had Holly Street Plan Presented to Council been meeting since January whencouncilallocated200K for improvements to Holly Street Trail. Already, Holly Street es- planade looks much cleaner. “Grass is now cut on a regu- lar basis and the leaves are blown and bagged on a weekly basis,” says Miller. “Idon’tknowexactlywhat’s been done in the past be- cause I wasn’t part of the Parks Department then. To me this is basic maintenance and attention.” Morerecently,Millersays Condon met twice with “a handful of constituents from Holly and worked on a pre- liminary plan.” “Last week, we met on site and walked the entire landwithresidents,someare here,” says Miller. “We walkedandlookedandtalked for several hours. I think we came up with a very good plan.” “We looked at issues of beautification.Also,thattrail gets an awful lot of use and See Holly page 10
- 2. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 2 B y K a t i e T o n g Not even the stroke of midnight couldstopthemarathonmeetingof West University’s Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) which began at 6:30 p.m. on March 26 and is- sued a preliminary decision in the breaking hours of the following morning. Despitehoursofquestioningthat indicated the Board was leaning their way, residents’ hopes for a denial of West U. Baptist Church’s zoning request turned back into a pumpkinastheBoardunanimously approved the church’s application. Thursday’smeeting,whereinthe ZBA considered West University Baptist Church’s request for a Spe- cial Exception that would allow themtoconstructaYouthCenterat 3826 Milton Street, with a similar Exception requested for a parking loton3821and3831Amherst,was originally slated for the February agenda, but had been postponed until this date. The board spent considerable time discussing whether or not to delay consideration again due to Notices filed by West U. Baptist the previous day claiming exemp- tion from zoning procedures based on laws protecting religious wor- ship. In the Notices filed the after- noon of Mar. 25, West U. Baptist argued that constitutional law, whichsupersedesCityOrdinances, gives them the right to gather in a place of worship without unrea- sonable limitation, thus exempting them from the requirement to ap- ply for an exemption. City Planner Debbie Scarcella did not endorse the Notices how- ever,writingthatsuchlaws“donot totally eliminate the discretion of the City’s Zoning Board of Adjust- ment.” Knowing that West U. Baptist has 21 days to appeal the non- endorsement of those Notices, the ZBA decided to proceed with the planned hearing with the under- standing that any decision issued would be preliminary and not en- tered into official record until a later date. Therewasanadditionalquibble astowhethertheBoardwouldhear the applications for Milton Street andAmhersttogetherorseparately. ReidWilson,specialcouncilfor the City as co-applicant for the Milton request, opposed consoli- dating the cases, while Brennan Reilly, representing David Kuykendall, pointed out that the traffic study presented by the ap- plicants takes both properties into account . “Thefavorableresult[ofthetraf- ficstudy]isbasedentirelyuponthe parking lot on Amherst,” said Reilly,whosaidseparateconsider- ation should require separate traf- Marathon Meeting Produces Tentative Approval for West U. Church’s Plans fic studies. Ultimately the Board moved to hear the evidence for both the Milton and Amherst cases, to issue separate decisions, but not to issue adecisiononeitheruntilbothcases had been presented. Wilson spoke first for the appli- cants, telling the Board to “remem- bers how limited its jurisdiction and authority is.” “All the other things are just background noise,” Wilson said, likely referring to the vehement resistance West U. City Council has encountered regarding the pro- posed land swap between the City and West U. Baptist. Regarding the church seeking an Exception on Milton, land they don’t currently own, Wilson called this a “pretty standard situation,” saying “It is common to get entitle- ments in advance of property ac- quisition.” Wilson proceeded to outline the requirementsforgrantingaSpecial Exception. The church must prove the proposed facility: (1) Causes no significant increase in on-street parkingandnosubstantialthreatof congestion or increase in traffic; (2) That there is no unreasonable burden on public utility systems; (3) That the use is accessory to a primary lawful use; and (4) That it is reasonably compatible with nearby sites and their usage and that it is in harmony with the gen- eral purpose and intent of the zon- ing ordinance. DanLynchofTrafficEngineers, Incorporated gave the results of his trafficimpactanalysiswhichfound “no significant negative impact” on traffic or on-street parking. Lynch’s results were based on current usage numbers with a po- tential 1% growth rate per year. Lynchsaidtheearlyandlatechurch servicesaveragearound220people each, and West U. Baptist’s youth group averages 50-78 attendees. The proposed new youth facility will accommodate just over 200, while the church building has a capacity of 668 seats. Board member Ed Sobash in- quired why Lynch’s study didn’t analyze the upper limits of the ca- pacity. “Wouldn’t we want to look at when it is full?” Sobash said. “The traffic study kind of focuses on the average, but the big capacity days, it doesn’t really address that.” “We can’t really design based on the highest day, if we did that, we’dbuildparkinggarages,”Lynch said. “The bottom line is we just don’t feel like there’s any signifi- cant traffic impact.” Board member Sandy Hellums questioned Lynch at length regard- ing how his numbers would be im- pactedwerethecapacitytochange. While standing behind his results, Lynch admitted “if land use is dif- ferent, yes, that would change the study.” Hellums then inquired, “If you only have a 1% growth and you’re functioning at half capacity and havebeen,whatistheideaofneed- ing 7,000 square feet now and an additional 7,500 square feet in the future if you weren’t looking to expandyourprogrammingandpar- ticipation?” Pressed by the board, Pastor Roger Patterson agreed that the church would welcome growth. “It is always our intent to reach more people,”Pattersonsaid.“We’dlove to reach as many people as we can.” “Do you have growth goals in terms of numbers of participants in your youth programs?” asked Hellums. “We do not have on record any- where stated growth goal of num- bers,” Patterson replied. Hellums commented, “I’m be- ing asked to accept conclusions based on certain assumptions that seem to me a bit inconsistent with what seems to be clearly a goal to expandyourservicesandyourpro- gramming.” Brennan Reilly and David KuykendallalsoquestionedLynch regarding the validity of his study. Kuykendall pointed out that the City did not have enough func- See Approval page 13
- 3. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 3 Emotions Edgy at West U. Council Meetings Behind the Headlines... By Ben Ballanfant T imes have become tense in West University’s po- litical scene as council members are becoming tender and citizens are feeling ignored. While it might not be to the point of eruption, the tension is starting to boil over even while council is in session. Nancy Gilbertson, a retired Systems Analyst who has designed computer systems for Invesco and livesbehindthecurrentMiltonmain- tenance facility, is one of those feel- ing the heat. “Iliveat3901Rice,thecornerof RiceBlvd.andCollege,andwe[she andherhusband]havebeenherefor over18years.We[residents]alllive in West U. and kind of live in a bubble.Weallbelievethatourneigh- bors look out for one another and have some empathy. “My head is 25 feet from where the garbage trucks are. When we purchased this property we knew what we were getting into. Frankly, it is normally quiet over there [the maintenancefacility].Suddenlythis prospect is about to change. “It is frustrating because nobody tried to get input from those who are going to be affected by the changes. “It concerns me that nobody sat and has listened to my needs. I in- vitedBobFrytocomeoverandvisit with me and Mike Ross has his own agenda and he doesn’t represent us [the residents].” “I think the think the thing that bothers me the most is that I don’t trustthem.Itisupsetting.Ifeltlikea pimple and I just exploded,” she says. Thatiswhathappenedlastweek. Several times Mayor Bob Fry had cut clarification questions from at- tendeesshortandtheroomwasfeel- ing the tension. Council had just finished the public comments sec- tion and council members were pre- senting their own thoughts on the topicsathandwhenGilberstonstood up. “My bedroom is right outside that,” she exclaimed. Bob Fry im- mediately had Police Chief Ken Walker escort her out. This wasn’t the last conflict of the evening either. Duringthenextagendaitem,per- taining to hiring an architect for $199,000 to design an new mainte- nance facility that would move it from Milton to Dincans, resident Linda Smith asked for a point of information right after council can- didateBrennanReilly’spubliccom- ments on the agenda item. Fry said, “No.” “Mayor Fry are we operating underRobert’sRulesofOrder?”she asked. “No we are not!” he exclaimed. “You may be excused.” “I need to ask about the animal shelter and whether we still own the property. It is a point of informa- tion.” “Chris [Peifer, the assistant city manager and Director of Public Works]willyoutakeheroutsideand tell her what the deal is with the animal shelter,” said Fry. Afterward, Smith said she didn’t know that council didn’t follow Robert’s Rules. She just wanted in- formationthatpertainedtotheagenda item that was currently being handled. Shealsowantedtomakesurethat this fact got reported. “I don’t want what happened to me to happen to someone else.” She saiditisimportanttoknowthatthey don’t operate under Robert’s Rules andthatyoumustsignuptospeakor ask a question ahead of time. Registration for Shearn Dual Language Program Shearn Elementary, 9802 Stella Link, will offer Dual Language for allincomingPrekindergarten,Kin- dergarten and First Grade Students for the 2015-2016 school year. Registrationforallincomingstu- dents (PreK to 5th Grade) will take place Monday, April 6-Friday, April 10, from 8:30 a.m.-noon. RegistrationisalsoavaiableThurs- day evening from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 11, from 8:30- 10a.m.Forinformationcall Shearn Elementary at (713) 295-5236
- 4. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 4 GOING OUT “Home”“Home”“Home”“Home”“Home” Tim Johnson’s “Home” (PG) comes from Dreamworks, who also released the “How to Train Your Dragon” and “Shrek” series. In comparison, “Home” is severely lacking. But even on its own, this is one where the younger viewers might be entertained,buttheolderoneswillbecheckingtheirwatches every few minutes (it runs about an hour-and-a-half). Adapted from Adam Rex’s 2007 children’s novel, “The True Meaning of Smekday,” it begins with an invasion of Earth by the Boov, a not too brave and rather polite race of alien beings. Humans are relocated to Australia. During the invasion, Gratuity “Tip” Tuci is separated from her mother. She befriends Oh, a Boov who inadvert- ently reveals their location to the Gorg, their lifelong en- emies. Actors who voice the characters include Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Steve Martin and Houston’s own Jim Parsons. The set-up of “Home” is particularly appealing. I also enjoyed how the Boov changed colors depending on their emotion. However, the film soon goes downhill fast. I was frankly unimpressed. The animation is fair, but the storyline becomes bits and pieces from other, and much better, films (the Minions from “Despicable Me,” “E.T. The Extra Terrestrial,” etc.). During the screening I attended, the target audience seemed to really enjoy it. If you attend, go at matinee and avoid the 3D. ✩✩ (out of four) Enjoy MovieEnjoy MovieEnjoy MovieEnjoy MovieEnjoy Movie and Dinner!and Dinner!and Dinner!and Dinner!and Dinner! Bring your family and friends and enjoy a Movie Night at the LeNotre Culinary Institute, every first Thursday of each month at 6:15 p.m. This is a free event. Complimentaryrefreshmentsand popcorn will be served. Everyone is welcome to stay and dine at the institute’s Gourmet Restaurant, Kris Bistro, after the screening. To reserve a table, call (713) 358- 5079 or email dine@ krisbistro.com. The movie on Thursday, April 2, will be “The Hundred Foot Journey,” starring Helen Mirren. When the chilly chef proprietress of a Michelin-starred restaurant in southern France gets wind of a culinary immigrant opening an Indianrestaurantjust100feetfrom her own, her icy protests escalate to all-out war between the two establishments. It’s a celebration of triumph over exile as these two worldscollideandoneyoungman tries to find the comfort of home ineverypot-whereverhemaybe. The wordon the street is there’s a new show in town from TUTS Underground. It’s called LMNOP, and even if you know your ABCs, chances are you’ve never heard them sung quite like this. Adapted for the stage by Scott Burkell (Book/Lyrics) and Paul Loesel (Music), LMNOP- A New Muzical is based off the book Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn. Actress and River Oaks resident Holland Vavra gives us a rundown of the story: “What happens is there’s a fictional island called Nollup and it’s an island devoted to the character (Nevin Nollup) who created the pangram ‘The quick brown fox jumped over the lazy dog,” Vavra describes. “There’s a monument in the town square immortalizing Nevin and his pangram, and at the beginning, one of the letters has By Ben BallanfantBy Ben BallanfantBy Ben BallanfantBy Ben BallanfantBy Ben Ballanfant The fashionable feminist character Elle Woods will be lighting up the Miller Outdoor Theatre stage over the next ten days. While many a young woman has now grown up with the Legally Blonde Woods as a role model, the HSPVA sophomore and area resident Mia Heckler has now become her. She will be singing and dancingherwayintotheheartsofHoustonianswith every showing put on by HITS Theatre. Mia has always has a passion for music. “I would always sing when I was younger and I would hum stuff out when I couldn’t talk. I was really, really shy when I was a child. Then I started taking voice lessons when I was nine years old and I came to HITS when I was ten. It really raised my confidence up and I have been here ever since,” she shares. Mia says, “It [HITS] is such a happy and positive environment. My audition experience [for Legally Blonde The Musical] was probably the best process I have ever experienced. Everyone was upbeat and happy. with Martin Duranwith Martin Duranwith Martin Duranwith Martin Duranwith Martin Duran Leading Ladies Real Life’s By Katie TongBy Katie TongBy Katie TongBy Katie TongBy Katie Tong fallen down and half of the town is kind of split. Half believe Nevin is speaking to them be- yondthegraveandtell- ing them to eradicate this letter. “The first one is ‘z.’ That’s the first letter to fall and they actually take it on as a good thing,” says Vavra. “We have a big party celebrating all the words we don’t have to say anymore that have ‘z’ in them.” But one by one, morelettersfallandare consequently banned, while the punishments for using the forbidden lettersbecomemorese- vere. “I think everyone’s gonna find it really dif- ferent,”Vavrasays.“If you’re a wordsmith, that kind of person, those people are going to really, really love it because by the end of the play we’re speak- ing a different language.” Vavra plays Agnes Prather in LMNOP, family friend to the story’s young heroine, Ella. “She’s very nervous all the time,” says Vavra. “…the most massive mistake you can make on the island is saying a word with a forbidden letter and Agnes ends up doing that and doesn’t even realize it.” Withoutspellingitouttoo much, Vavra relates that “Agnes’fateisnotpositive.” “What ends up is a bit tragic for Agnes,” she says. In contrast to her charac- ter, Vavra calls herself lucky in real life. Upbeat,engagingandgra- cious,VavraisaformerMiss Texaspageantcontestantand a constant dabbler in all things artsy, crafty, and cre- ative. “To say I grew up in the theatre would be putting it lightly,” Vavra laughed. “I could have been born onstage, my parents joke aboutthatsometimes.Igrew up backstage, onstage. I lit- erally don’t know anything else, which I guess is a really cool thing.” Holland Vavra Mia Heckler Vavra grew up in Kingwood and earned her degree inMusicalTheatrefromSamHoustonStateUniversity. She has performed with TUTS, TUTS Underground, and just finished her 11th season with Stages Repertory Theatre. “I’m a Sagittarius but you’d think I was a Gemini the way that I bounce around, wanting to do everything all the time,” jokes Vavra. “I’ve been drawing my whole life. I sew. I have a business on Etsy. If I see a craft online, I determine that I can make it.” The most exciting element of LMNOP for Vavra is the day-to-day presence of the writer and composer in rehearsals. “I’ve never been in this situation, it’s the most wonderfulelementtohavethesepeopleinfrontofyou,” Vavra describes. “Every day things are changed in the script. It’s really exciting to be in there.” “Ifeelsohonoredtobeabletosingthismusic…Scott and Paul both need Pulitzers for their work. The music is just unbelievable,” Vavra continues. “(Director) Joe Calarco is amazing, and our entire creative staff has been with the show for years.” Vavra believes LMNOP will have a broad, yet uniquely individual appeal to its audiences. “Every person who sees it will probably inherently take away different levels of how they see it in terms of humor or being a dramatic piece,” she says. TUTS Underground website describes the musical as “part romance, part clever word game and part adult fable that reminds us of how precious our liberties are and how important it is to have the courage to stand up for what we believe.” “Without being trite, it’s dialogue that’s happening now,” Vavra says. “…there are so many scenes that are relevant to what’s happening today. It kind of puts this spotlight on it in a small, creative way and you realize this is the world we’re in.” “It’s a wonderful play, by the end it’s very positive,” Vavra says. “It’s lengthy, but it’s entertaining. It’s not “I went in with the attitude of whatever happens is going to happen and I will be happy with that.” She prepared for this audition more thoroughly than she had for any other before it. The age old wisdom of preparation and hard work paid off. Just before Christ- mas she got a present, the starring role. “I love this show because it has such a positive message,” she says. “What I have kind of figured out one of those shows that’s just a See Holland page 13 from this whole process is that life is See Mia page 13
- 5. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 5 Student choreographers include Taylor Betts ‘15, Victoria Bond ‘15, Adeline Braverman ’16 Rea Golt ‘17, Ava Leigh Bryan ‘15, Lizzie Cadena ‘16, Hannah Cantu ‘15, Catherine Cody ‘17, Claire Dameris ‘16, Aleah Eskin ‘17, Mandy Garza ‘15, Hailey Lassiter ‘15. Episcopal HS Presents Spring Dance Concert Episcopal High School student choreographers will present original works for the annual spring dance concert on April 17- 18 at 7:30 p.m. each night. This springtime event is always a crowd-pleaser, and more than 65 dancers will participate. Thirteen pieces of choreography will be presented, encompassing a varied list of music and genres. Out of the 12 student-choreographers, seven are veterans, and the rest are all making their debut. This blend of both experienced and novice choreographers creates an exciting and eclectic mix of music and dance. Tickets will be available at the door on the nights of performances. Ticket prices are: $5 for students and $10 for adults.TheEHSDadsClubwillsponsoranopeningnighticecreamsocialfrom6-7:15p.m.,priortotheperformance in the Underwood Theatre on April 17, in Glassell Hall. For more information, call (713) 512-3687 or email fvega@ehshouston.org. “Over the River and Through the Woods” Theatre Southwest presents “Over The River And Through the Woods” by Joe DiPietro, a heartwarmingcomedy.Nickisasingle,Italian-Americanguywhoseeshisgrandparentsevery week for Sunday dinner. This is their routine until he has to tell them the news he has been offered his dream job. The problem? The job would take him far away from his beloved, but annoying, grandparents. The show is directed by David Hymel. Performances: April 10 - May 2, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. with a Sunday Matinee April 19 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $17, $15 for seniors and students (with ID). For reservations: email tickets@theatresouthwest.org or call (713) 661 9505 . Theatre Southwest is located at 8944A Clarkcrest, 77063. E-Mail your news and photos to: MyNews@Village-Southwest-News.com
- 6. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 6 STAYING POWER Willow Meadows AARP Willow Meadows AARP Chapter 1056 will meet on Thursday, April 9, at Willow Meadows Baptist Church in the Fellowship Hall, 4300 W. Bellfort. Presentation will be on ”Laughter” and how it affects our daily life. Regular meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month. Games are at 10 a.m., lunch is at 11:30 a.m. (reservation required-cost $6). The business meeting/program is at 12:15 p.m. A day trip is planned for April 22 to the Houston Museum of Natural Science with film presentation of “Tiny Giants” at the IMAX. Cost of trip $8. Lunch is on your own at McDonald’s in the museum. For more information about the group, call Lydia Bebczuk at (713) 771-7158 or (281) 989-8655. Shenandoah Neighbors Keep Neighborhood Clean Shenandoah neighbors held their second annual Shenandoah Clean Up Event. Residents and homeowners attended Saturday and worked hard on several projects. They removed 34 abandoned shopping carts from ditches, storm drains, streets and sidewalks and returned them to retailers. Shenandoah residents have returned more than 87 carts to Sams Club in the last eight months). They trimmed eight trees on Renwick. They also removed 20 large bags of litter. Thirty-four bandit signs were removed, and several 2 x 30 yard dumpsters were filled. Junior Achievement of Southeast Texas and associated companies were recognized at a special national awards reception at NASDAQ. JASET Board Chairman James L. Gallogly, retired CEO of LyondellBasell, was presented with the national organization’s highest volunteer recognition, the Gold Leadership Award. Under his leadership as chairman, JASET has grown programing to reach 300,000 students annually, and initiated “JA Inspire,” a career awareness immersion program that involved 20,000 local eighth graders. In the last school year JA of Southeast Texas provided 2.3 million instructional hours, the highest in the nation, at no cost to 950 area schools. Shenandoah volunteers pick up grocery carts that been abandoned in their neighborhood to return to retailers. E-Mail your news and photos to: MyNews@Village-Southwest-News.com
- 7. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 7 B y M i c h e l l e L e i g h S m i t h Robert Durst seemed to enjoy the variety and the accepting na- ture of the Rice Village bistros, bookstores and venues of cultural exchange. Before his most recent arrest on charges of the murder of Susan Berman 14 years ago, the multi-millionaire from the New York real estate dynasty sat at the bar at Benjy’s, 2424 Dunstan, in the evenings and liked to lunch at Café Rabelais. Both are in easy walking distance from his $1.5M condos at 2520 Robinhood. Giovanny Espana, a valet atten- dantatHungry’s,Rice,recallspark- ing Durst’s Smart Car four times over the past few years. TheRiceVillageisaplacewhere offbeat behavior is not really ques- tioned. It’s a place where quirki- ness can be a given. Rice students are rather famous for antics like rotating the statue of founder Wil- liam Marsh Rice in the Quadrangle orfillingtheMecomfountainswith Mr. Bubble. The Rice Village has attracted brilliant minds of Pulitzer Prize winner Larry McMurtry, TexasMonthlyfounderBillBroyles and writer Max Apple. So what if Durst orders a ham sandwichwithouttheham?Ahelp- fulstafferatCroissantBriochesays B y M i c h e l l e L e i g h S m i t h Mondayafternoon,BellairePo- lice received a call that a car pur- suedbyHoustonPolicehadcrashed into a pillar supporting the Ever- green overpass. Bellaire Patrol of- ficersGregMyersandHarryLopez arrived on the scene in the 4700 block of Evergreen at 12:33 p.m., followed by the Bellaire Fire De- partment EMS team in an ambu- lance. At 12:42 p.m., BFD’s Shift Rice Village Neighbors Remember Robert Durst yes, Durst did order his sandwich that way, but ordered other sand- wicheswithoutchanges,saladsand soup at times, and he was always a generous tipper. Customers recall him sitting next to the wall with the framed art, frequently talking to himself. “He asked me a question once, and I would see him most often sitting alone. One morning last month, he was with a woman who said she had a plane at 11 a.m.,” saysJulia,anattractiveregular,who preferred not to use her full name. ItwastheRiceVillageCVSthat Durst entered to pick up a prescrip- tion, then urinated on a candy rack. CVS customers say they’ve seen womensnappingphotosofthearea where Durst peed on the candy last July. In 1994, the public urination was one of the reasons he was dis- placed as the heir apparent at his family’s multi-million New York real estate firm after he was repri- manded repeatedly for urinating in theofficewastebaskets.OtherRice business owners, including Gina Liuzza, owner of the French Meli- Melo faience and pottery empo- rium, have long lamented frustra- tion with late-night party crowd relieving themselves on the side of her building on 5617 Morningside. So what drew Durst to the Rice Village area? His three condos, #1405, 801 and 606 on Robinhood are not far from his attorney Dick DeGuerin’shomeonSunset.Aman like Durst definitely needs to have an attorney close at hand. Given his history of connections with missing coeds, one wonders if it was the proximity to Rice Univer- sity, which has an undergraduate student population of 6,621 and 2300 graduate students, including 400 MBA students. Perhaps Durst found a level of intrigue in the mysterious murder of Rice’s founder, William Marsh Rice, in New York City. “I’vebeenheresince2012,”says Chief Johnny Whitehead, who came to Rice from University of MassachusettsatAmherst. “Inever heard of the guy until he started making the news. We had a stu- dent, Reny Jose, who disappeared March 23 over spring break in Panama City, FL. He’s been miss- ing since then. Prior to my coming here, I don’t know of any others, I can ask my colleagues.” “The whole thing is an incred- ibly scary story!” observes Rice’s ShakespeareanProfessorJ.Dennis Huston.“Andwhatonecannothelp wondering how many people he did kill. Fortunately, as far as we know, he didn’t seem to find vic- tims--wehope—intheVillage. The Ricestudentwhodisappearedcould have been one of his victims, but it seems to me unlikely. And I al- ways thought he drowned. But why didn’t his body wash ashore?” Durst purchased tickets at the Chase Ends When Car Hits Overpass Evergreen Pillar Johnson says she’s disturbed by the high rate of speed at which cars traveldownEvergreenandthenum- ber of parked cars that are often hit. Inthiscase,thesuspectwasexiting 610 so quickly he could not make the turning radius in the U-turn lane. “The ambulance was returned to service 40 minutes later,” says Bellaire Police Chief Byron Holloway. “It’sanHPDcase,sowe don’t know much more.” “We consider this a crash case and since the crash happened in Bellaire, it’s not showing up in our system,” says Victor Senties, a pub- licspokespersonforHPD. “Thecall dropped as a suspicious vehicle.” Hecouldnotsaywheretheinitial pursuitbeganorwhyHPDwaschas- ing the red Charger. The same day, Bellaire Police dealtwiththetheftofaleafblowerin the 4900 block of Palmetto, theft of a handbag by a suspect who broke outacarwindowinordertostealthe purse at 9:03 a.m. in the 6500 block of S. Rice and a welfare check in the 5000blockofFournacethatinvolved a white male who was either sleep- ingorunconsciousat6:39p.m.who smelled of alcohol and was trans- ported to the Bellaire jail. B led by Commander Albert Figueroa assessed the suspect for injuries and did not transport him. HewastakenintocustodybyHPD. “I noticed a red Charger smok- ingandsizzlingasIdroveby,”says MaryJohnson,anursewhoslowed to see if anyone was hurt. “The airbaghadbeendeployedandthere were only about eight inches be- tween the pillar and where the smashed part of the car’s hood ended at the windshield. He must havebeenflying. IsawtheBellaire officer bring a tall, well-dressed blackmanbackaroundandputhim inthepatrolcar. Themanhadshort hairandwaswearingasilverchain.” See Durst page 15
- 8. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 8 Locally Owned and Invested in Our Community For More Than a Quarter Century! The only locally-owned newspapers in Bellaire, West U., Southside Place, and Southwest Houston! (713) 668-9293 St. Philip’s Choir Presents “Whispers of the Passion” The St. Philip’s United Methodist Chancel Choir, instrumental en- semble and narrators will present “Whispers of the Passion,” a cantata by Joseph Martin, on Thursday, April 2, at 7 p.m. in the church Sanctuary. This presentation will commemorate an important day in the Christian calendar, “Holy Thursday” or “Maundy Thursday,” the day on which Jesus celebrated the Passover with His disciples, known as the Last Supper. The music will take the listener on a journey through Christ’s last days onearth. DeeplymovingmusicandaccompanyingvisualsrecountJesus’ entranceintoJerusalem,histimeintheUpperRoomwherehedrankfrom the chalice and ate unleavened bread, his beatings and being crowned with thorns, and, finally, his crucifixion on a cross. The solemn worship service will include hymn singing and receiving oftheholysacrament,alsoknownascommunion. Allareinvitedtocome and participate in this important event in the Christian Church. St. Philip’s United Methodist Church is lo- cated at 5501 Beechnut at Renwick. Addi- tional information may be found on the church website, www.spumc.com. Good Friday Women of the Tomb Service at St. Mark’s “St. Mark’s Episcopal Church invites all to join us in a beautiful service on Good Friday, April 3, at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary,” says Rev. Mary Ann Huston, associate rector. “This poignant Stations of the Cross service is led by readers, musicians, and acolytes—all women and girls. Scripture readings and prayers alternate with musical reflections that range from voice solos and duets to instrumental pieces for trumpet, flute, violin, oboe, and harp, enhancing the meaningfulness of the service for a congregation of women and men. “The 14 Stations of the Cross,” she continues, “follow Christ’s footsteps from his trial to the cross, illuminating his sacrificial love. Each station is observed with music, a reading, and a prayer.” The stations are represented physically by 14 bas relief metal sculptures lining both side walls of the sanctuary. St. Mark’s Church is at 3816 Bellaire Blvd. For more information, contact the church office at (713) 664- 3466 or church@stmarks-houston.org.
- 9. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 9 Neighborhood clergy from several denominations will offer Good Friday messages at Salem Evangelical LutheranChurch,4930W.Bellfort,duringaTreOre(Three-Hour)ServiceonGoodFriday,April3,fromnoon- 3 p.m. The service is in seven parts and focuses on Jesus’ words from the cross. Worshipers may come and go between parts or remain for the entire service. The service, during the last three hours before Christ’s death according to Christian tradition, is a somber time of meditation and worship for Christians. The meditation schedule: • Noon, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing,” Pastor Jon Burnham, St. John’s Presbyterian Church. • 12:30 p.m., “Today you will be with me in Paradise,” Pastor Matthew Vandagriff, Willow Meadows Baptist Church. •12:55p.m.,“Woman,hereisyourson...,” PastorRaymondLeBlanc, retired Lutheran pastor. • 1:20 p.m., “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Pastor Taylor Fuerst, Westbury United Methodist Church. • 1:50 p.m., “I am thirsty…” Mr. J. Stephen Sandifer, Southwest Central Church of Christ. • 2:15 p.m., “It is finished,” Vicar Gena Davis, Grace Episcopal Church. • 2:35 p.m., “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit,” Pastor Edward Schlachtenhaufen, retired Lutheran pastor. “We welcome the community to this moving, ecumenical worship experience,” said the Rev. David A. Roschke, Senior Pastor at Salem. Salem is located on West Bellfort in Meyerland, just west of South Post Oak (across from the Kroger store). Thepubliciswelcome. Formore information, call (713) 723-3509 or visit www.salemhouston.org. Tre Ore Service on Good Friday Citizens for Animal Protection will celebrate Easter weekend with an “EGGSTRAVGANZA” of a deal on adoptions. CAP is offering 50% off all fees Adopt A Pet for Easter for animals available for adoption based on approval of the regular application process. Adoptions in- clude, vaccinations, de-worming, heartworm testing or feline leuke- mia testing, microchip, I.D. tag, obediencetrainingcouponandfree veterinarian health examination. Adopt a CAP cat, dog, rabbit, hamster or other small mammal. In addition, find an hidden Eas- tereggintheshelterandreceivethe prize inside (a free pet bed, free pet carrier, free treats or a free collar and leash). The event will be held on Satur- day, April 4, from 11 a.m. -6 p.m. and Sunday, April 5,from 1-6 p.m. CAP Pet Adoption Center & Shel- ter is located at 17555 Katy Free- way. For information call (281) 497-0581. View adoptable animals at www.cap4pets.org, and at www.facebook.com/cap4pets or Twitter @cap4pets.
- 10. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 10 it’s really well loved, so there are components that show up in this overall plan to fill in trees where there are tree gaps. We have some added improvements to the trail. She recommends taking out the tallowandArizonaAshtreeswhere there is not much growing under thembecauseitisreallyshady. We wanttoaddgroundcoverthatwould be clean and simple and tidy and neat.” She says they plan to plant 8-10 new trees, mulch and some edging. “As far as added improvement to trail, we recommend making it one foot wider and adding shady ground cover that would be tidy and some irrigation to help with longevityofandhealthoftheexist- ing trees. “We had to make some priori- ties, so for the idea of Holly Street Phase I, we would add 4500 plants, book ending them,” she says. “The heavily canopied areas would be freshly mulched. “We want to keep it clean and tidy. In our walk through, we no- ticedseveralbenchesalongtheway. Itmightbemoreinterestingtomove them to different locations and group them, and we could raise donor monies for adding benches, butthosearenotpartofthisbudget. “It’s not that it isn’t a beautiful framework,” says Condon. “This is about tidying it up, making it more purposeful, and taking out theinvasivetrees.”Shetalkedabout adding more decomposed granite as well making it more purposeful. “In the overall master plan, if we weregoingtofillthemissingholes, we need 16 trees total; right now we can plant eight or nine and we can have pockets of ground cover. We talked about where to put the trees and benches with neighbors, if we take these ideas and apply them, it tidies it up.” Mayor Nauert questioned Condon about the narrowness of the street. “Often landscaping trucks, maintenance and large city vehicles roll up over the curb. I have a hard time because I drive a big Ford Super Duty and I very frequently fold my mirrors in. I heard you use the term decom- posedgravel.Idecomposeitalittle faster than most people. Is there a more stable material?” he asked. “I feel often times, I leave a trench eight inches deep.” “We talked about that at length, onesuggestionwastopouranextra nine-inch band, doweled into curb givingusaflatspace,”saysCondon. “We talked about pavers, I think that has merit, but it’s also a pricy thing to do.” “We considered larger bullock gravelinaspacerunning18-inches across,butoneofourconcernswas if this was bull rock, it is not easy to compact and it is more of a trip hazard and not having uniformity would be more of a problem. We agonized over that topic. “ “At times, it’s quite impossible togetdownthestreet,”saysNauert. “Iftherewasasignthere,itwouldn’t last a day.” “Nobody wanted a hard surface trail,” she says. “We’re trying to keep these trees healthy. No one wanted to add more hardscape. If anyone has a better idea, we’re open.” CouncilmanRomanReedasked Karl Miller how the City would maintain it. “I think it takes a solid commit- ment,” Miller says. “Before, the granite had not been compacted. Once this is completed, it will be compacted properly. When you think about it, that trail’s probably ten years old and it’s held up pretty well. We have landscape crews out thereweekly,emptyingtrash,pick- ing up tree limbs now.” “I will commit to you it will not get into this shape again,” Miller says. “As long as I’m here.” Mayor Nauert says, “Some of the answer is to keep it from ponding, correcting that is a big part of it.” Councilman Jim Avioli pointed out the decomposed gravel around the firehouse congregating in the gutters. “Every time it rains it’s in the street,” Avioli says. “I don’t want to see us make the same mis- take twice.” “We’llbelookingatthattomor- row,” says Miller. Resident Astrid Bray asked Condon if there could be a test area for the irrigation, before all of the dollars were spent, to see if the sprinklers could stand up to the abuse of the trucks and vehicles that roll over the trail. Ticketing or towing could be another solution for flagrant folks who park on the esplanade. “It can be done,” says Bellaire Police Chief Byron Holloway. Holly from page 1 “Depending on the circumstances it could be a violation. We use a certain degree of discretion. The fact that someone may roll their wheels up on the curb and sit there for a minute may not constitute an actual parking violation. It de- pends on how blatant it is.” Resident Charlene O’Shea thankedcouncilforhearingtheplan and reminded them that other money may need to be spent. “The Design and Development of Holly Street is for $40,500,” saysAssistantCityManagerDiane White. “Evergreen Master Plan Conceptual Development is for $24,490. “Clark Condon and Associates is performing both of these profes- sionalservicesforus,bothofwhich were budgeted. The City Manager is authorized to sign both contracts and he did.” CM McLaughlan was not opti- misticaboutcontinuedmaintenance of the trail and reiterated how diffi- cult it was to get anything to grow on the trail. “I am extremely reluc- tanttospendanymorethan$200K, hesays.“Weneedtobehappywith improvements we’re going to get without depriving other parks.” Garden Club The Bellaire Garden Club will meet Thursday, April 2, at 7 p.m. at the Henshaw House in Russ Pit- man Park, 7211 Newcastle St. All are welcome to attend! Condit Kindergarten Tours Condit Kindergarten tours for newparentsaregoingtobeApril8- 9from8:30-10a.m.atCondit. Par- ents are welcome to show up dur- ing these times and will be given a guided tour from Condit students and volunteers.
- 11. Classifieds: (713) 668-9293 Email: submitad@village-southwest-news.com 5160 Spruce, Bellaire, TX 77401 Deadline: 4 p.m. every Friday March 31, 2015 11 Classifieds 713-668-9293 alterations & sewing 713-522-5570 Residential Windows Gutter Cleaning Pressure Cleaning Bonded & Insured Free Estimates References Texas Window cleaning co. since 1947 Ready Air Conditioning Sales • Service • Installation A /C Check-Up • Free Estimates! 713-828-4756 TACLB020668E concrete P.C. Dude for In-home Support (713) 661-6612 or (713) 516-4234 (cell) •Data Restore •Hardware Upgrades •Networking Microsoft Certified Professional www.pcdudehouston.com education & instruction Appliance Repair Refrigerators Ovens Washers Dryers Ice Machines 832-526-8531 your personal pc technician Repairs, virus removal, net- working, shared DSL/cable connections, custom PC built to your specifications, upgrades, troubleshooting, first time setups. James (713) 271-0850. LB 42/45 computers appliances child care A/C & HEATING cleaning Learn Arabic! An experienced teacher will help you learn to read, write & speak con- versational Arabic for work, travel or variety of reasons. Resident of U.S. more than 30 years, speaks excellent English. Translator / Interpreter. Call (281) 704-3181 Dorothy B. Pearce CPA Accounting and Income Tax Services For Small Businesses & Individuals Quickbooks Consult (713) 807-8677 3334 Richmond Ave. Suite 120 chimney sweeps Chimney Cleaning &Repairs Conscious Cleaning Services 713-464-1177 Since 1977 autos wanted tax professional Spanish Tutoring, English Tutoring Internet, telephone or in-person. Adults, or students study pri- vately. Call (713) 666-3839 or (281) 587-6985. 5338 Beech- nut, Houston, TX 77096. http://GlobalSpanishTutor.com. LB 31/04 sjt cleaning References available. Houses, apartments, buildings, offices, restaurants. Free estimates. Call Gloria (832) 438-7153. LB 42/45 world’s most patient tutor Summer is almost here! Keep your kids focused. Certified teacher, kindergarten - 6th. References. Please call (713) 723-8480. LB 41/44 best general housecleaning Excellent references. Bilin- gual. Call Sylvia (832) 305-2619 LB 38/47 A-PLUS TUTORING In Home & Classroom For Math, Science Reading & Writing 281-953-1200 713.723.3212 www.schultzconstructioncompany.com Family Owned & Operated Since 1955•Bonded•Insured We Do Concrete & More! DRIVEWAYS PATIO/WALKS FOUNDATIONS REMODELING & CUSTOM HOMES babysitter / housekeeper Available Tuesdays and week- ends. References. Please call (832) 433-0746. LB 41/43 MATH TUTOR All Levels of Math SAT, TAKS/TASP Computer Training (713) 501-5140 SPECIAL NEEDS TUTORING Master’s Level, Certified Special EducationTeacher. Extensive experience effectively teaching students with Asperger’s/ASD, ADHD, Emotional/Behavioral Issues, Dyslexia, LD. References. (832) 413-1014 www.freshstarttutoring.net custom sewing & alterations By Aniliza. (713) 382-0075. LB 42/43 elderly care Affordable Senior Care Live-Ins, Personal Care, Bathing, Transportation, Meal Preparation, Medication Reminders 713-956-8183 Call 24/7 • 4 Hour Minimum Private duty caregiver & companion For your loved one. 30+ years experience. I’m honest, de- pendable & efficient. Seeking employment morning or nights, Sunday - Thursday. References upon request. No driving. Call (281) 889-3008. LB 40/43 impeccable housekeeper Available Monday & Wednes- day every week and Tuesday & Thursday every two weeks. Please call (713) 269-5598 or (832) 243-5048. LB 34/07 The Best Maid Service TheBestMaidService.com Reasonable Prices Excellent References Available Saturdays 713-269-8102 If you paid for work-related expenses out of your own pocket, you may be able to deduct those costs. In most cases, you claim allowable expenses on Schedule A, Itemized Deductions. You can only deduct unreimbursed expenses that are ordinary and necessary to your work as an employee. Some costs that you may be able to deduct include required work clothes or uniforms, supplies and tools you use on the job, business use of your car, business meals and entertainment, business travel away from home, business use of your home and work-related education. Special rules apply if your employer reimbursed you for your expenses. To learn more, check out Publication 529, Miscellaneous Deductions. You should also refer to Publication 463, Travel, Entertainment, Gift, and Car Expenses. In most cases you report your expenses on Form 2106 or Form 2106-EZ. After you figure your allowable expenses, you then list the total on Schedule A as a miscellaneous deduction. You can deduct the amount that is more than two percent of your adjusted gross income. If you are a K through 12 teacher or educator, you may be able to deduct up to $250 of certain expenses you paid for in 2014. These may include books, supplies, equipment, and other materials used in the classroom. You claim this deduction as an adjustment on your tax return, rather than as an itemized deduction. You must keep records to prove the expenses you deduct. For what records to keep, see Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax. Remember: The Tax Filing Deadline for the Tax Year 2014 is April 15, 2015. However, anyone can request an automatic six-month extension to file their tax return. The request is made with Form 4868, which can be filed electronically or on paper. Visit IRS.gov or consult a tax professional for further information. Employee Business Expenses BRAVENEC ELECTRIC SINCE 1953 – TECL #19210 Residential / Commercial Wiring 713-864-4168 BravenecElectric@gmail.com Serving Houston, Bellaire, West U. Credit Cards Accepted electrician employment full-time teacher assistant For infant & toddler class. SW Montessori School. Please call (713) 771-5600 or (713) 774-3793. LB 42/43 Immediate Opening for Part-Time Receptionist Call for Interview (713) 668-9293 Our busy telephones and many walk-in visitors need a smiling, cheerful person to greet them and provide customer service. Duties include filing and typing. Must have excellent command of the English language; bilingual desirable. Non-smoking office in Bellaire. Monday through Friday. part-time Licensed Massage Therapist & Esthetician needed. Bellaire area. (713) 772-9396. LB 43/43 HappyNew Year! Meyerland Area Resident Will Pay CASH for Your Car! New to Antique Vehicles. All Price Ranges, Running or Not. Call 713-206-8850 Thanks to everyone for your business all of these years. Highland Village A/C & Heating Call the company that service built! www.AbregoHVAC.net 713-666-0121 hvacN711@aol.com FelipeAbrego•4231-KBellaireBlvd.77025•TACLB00004752E Locally Owned • Free Estimates
- 12. March 31, 2015 Classifieds: (713) 668-9293 Email: submitad@village-southwest-news.com 5160 Spruce, Bellaire, TX 77401 Deadline: 4 p.m. every Friday 12 Continued on next column Continued on page 13 Continued from previous column «««« Classifieds GET RESULTS! (713) 668-9293 Classifieds GET RESULTS! 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Bellaire Handyman 713-553-5896 Commercial/Residential Painting-Interior/Exterior Screens • Sheetrock Doors • Carpentry • Electrical Plumbing • Fences Specializing in Bellaire & Inner Loop for over 20 years 713-686-1733 Fax: 713-688-4481 www.HytechFoundationRepair.com Free Estimates • Financing AVAILABLE Organic&Sustainable Free Estimates! Female Owned & Operated 713-426-0649 www.leyendeckerlandscape.com Leyendecker Landscape Landscaping Flower Beds Lawn Care Stone Work Decking Sprinkler Repair 713-666-9505 petalsandleaveslandscape.com ODD JOB Fence Co. 281-498-7256 Small, Big, Odd Rio Grande Fence Co. “A Professional Fence Company” Wood • Wrought Iron • Drive Gates Access Systems and more Free Estimates 713-862-7320 FENCING Free Estimates • All Work Guaranteed Insured • Bonded • Open Weekends 713-835-8185Brian Erwin Since1988 Bayou City Fence ––––––– C O M P A N Y ––––––– hardwood floor man Thanks for 40+ years loyalty. In- stall,sand,refinish&repair.Free estimates, bonded & insured. JosephWilliamsFlooring.com (713) 443-7967 LB 3841 FLOORING Pop’s Home Repair Painting • Carpentry Hardi-Plank • Fences Pressure Washing Decks • Tree Trimming Plumbing & Electrical 713.298.9212 Gates sagging,dragging or won’t open? • Gates • Landscaping • Fences • Sprinkler Systems Free Estimates • Open Saturdays Emergency Repairs Gulf Coast Fence Co. 713-494-0563 • gulfcoastgate@aol.com www.gulfcoastfence.net “A” RATING 713-664-0169 www.odellslandscapes.com Lic.#5056 • Insured • References • In Business Since 1993 Residential & Commercial Lawn Maintenance Patios • Pavers • Flagstone • Concrete Sprinklers • Drainage Design & Installation O’Dell’s Landscaping Professional TreeService 713-545-7436 TreeArts Doug Webb: Arborist Mike’sLawnService 713-668-9809 Bellaire Resident www.bellairebook.com Free Estimates References Residential/Commercial • Since 1988 HarryYianitsas 281-499-9690 • Manicured Lawns • Landscaping • Chemical Applications • Shrub Trimming • Tree Trimming • Power Washing HARRY’S LAWN & GARDEN Landscaping by Willy Residential & Commercial Landscaping Tree Trimming • Mulching Flower Beds • Trash Hauling Reasonable Prices! Free Estimates! (832) 647-3194 Cell Complete Lawn Care LAWN&TREE SERVICE Flower Beds • Mulching Trimming • Fence Repair Pressure Washing Free Estimates•35 Years 832-892-6405 Landscape Design & Installation Sprinkler Systems & Repair Underground Drainage Systems Soil pH Testing Brick, Brick Paver, & Stone Patios Landscape Lighting Russell Budnick Grad. Texas A&M 832-722-0130 $50 OFF with this ad Oscar’s Lawn & Landscaping Tree Trimming • Mowing Mulching • Flower Beds 713-545-3909 • 281-920-3458 Free Estimates Fully Insured Peter’s Landscaping Complete Landscaping & Tree Service Commercial & Residential Lawn Maintenance • Drainage Sprinkler System Installation & Repair Free Estimates • Fully Insured Cell 713-875-7580 Off. 281-497-1088 general contractor landscaping &sprinklers Maintenance & Installation Call Criss – Lic. #0015129 832-283-1849Four Seasons 713-666-8977 Free Estimates • Insured GUTTERS Cleaned/Repaired 713-884-9288 celtichomeservices@comcast.net On a Budget? 3All Remodeling 3All Repairs Just tell us what you need! Now Hiring PERSONAL CARE ATTENDANTS Seeking caring and dependable people to work in the homes of elderly and disabled clients. Will assist with preparing meals, shopping, personal care, errands, light housekeeping, andotherassignedduties.Weofferflexibleday,evening,and weekend shifts. Must be at least 18 years of age with a clean criminal background. MUST have reliable transportation. No certifications or prior experience required. Fax Resume referencing Ad #15943 to 512-453-1748 For an application, call 512-454-3581 Apply online at www.gentiva.com/careers Or apply in-person at 3307 Northland Dr., Suite 260, Austin, Texas 78731 E.O.E / M.F.D.V. GIRLINGHEALTH CARE CITY OF BELLAIRE NOTICE OF PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING BELLAIRE GARDENS REPLAT Notice of a public hearing on an application filed by Sandcastle Homes, Inc., owner of the property at 0 Newcastle and 0 Howard Street, for a subdivision replat to create twelve (12) single family lots north of Bissonnet Street, between Howard and Newcastle, to be known as “Bellaire Gardens.” This property is located in the Corridor Mixed-Use (CMU) Zoning District. In accordance with Section 212.015 of the Texas Local Government Code, if the proposed replat requires a variance and is protested in accordance with this subsection, the proposed replat must receive, in order to be approved, the affirmative vote of at least three-fourths of the members present of the municipal planning commission or governing body, or both. For a legal protest, written instruments signed by the owners of at least 20 percent of the area of the lots or Gutter Cleaning Pressure washing, painting, and handyman, etc. Call Don (713) 272-9214 LB 43/46
- 13. Classifieds GET RESULTS! (713) 668-9293Call Today! 713-668-9293 Continued from page 12 Classifieds: (713) 668-9293 Email: submitad@village-southwest-news.com 5160 Spruce, Bellaire, TX 77401 Deadline: 4 p.m. every Friday March 31, 2015 13 Interior & Exterior Sheetrock & Wood Repairs Door Refinishing Power Washing 713-206-5965 RAMIRO GARCIA • FREE ESTIMATES Remodeling & Painting PAINTING & WALLCOVERING ROD’S Interior, Exterior Painting, Wallpaper, Sheetrock, Carpentry Repairs & more. Small jobs welcomed. Free estimates. (713) 729-2585 (281) 686-2315 Painter for discriminating homeowners. 713-826-0193 Houston-Brenham Dennis Wood Pete’s Quality PAINTING Exterior • Interior Pressure Washing • Sheetrock Repair References • Pete Guzman, II petesqualitypainting@yahoo.com 713-921-3916 832-372-5577 Maxx Gonzalez El Arte D’Pintar Expert Int/Ext Paint Sheetrock Repair•Stain•Walls Fancy Texture•Faux Finishing 832-212-0739 Maxx@MaxxGonzalez.net www.MaxxGonzalez.net JLP PAINTING CO. Family Owned & Operated Serving local community for over 30 yrs. Interior & Exterior Painting General Repairs & Carpentry Hardi Plank Siding Specialist Power Washing • Sheetrock/Texture Window & Door Replacement 281-578-1124 www.jlppainting.com We accept major credit cards.Joseph Bebök Painting Interior/Exterior Painting Sheetrock Repair Wall Covering Small Carpentry Clean, Very Professional Veteran 35 Years Experience Free Estimates, References 713-780-8746 Cell 832-866-4722 masonry J.Q. Brick Repairs • Brick / Crack Repair • Mortar Match • Leaning Walls / Columns • Fireplace & Chimney • Brick Pavers & Glass Block • Stone, Stucco & CMU 832-640-1261 Free Estimates Restoration Services legal notices CITY OF BELLAIRE NOTICE OF PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SPECIFIC USE PERMIT HEARING 4601 BELLAIRE BOULEVARD Notice of a public hearing on an application filed by Roy Harper AIA & Associates, Inc, on behalf of Crosspoint Church/West University Baptist Church, owner of the property at 4601 Bellaire Boulevard, for a Specific Use Permit, as required by Chapter 24, Planning & Zoning, Section 24-532 B. (2), to allow for the construction of a youth building to be used for youth worship, ecclesiastical education, and community activities. This property is located in the R-3 Zoning District. Purpose: One (1) Hearing shall be held at which all persons interested in the proposed Specific Use Permit request shall be given an opportunity to be heard. Where: City of Bellaire Council Chambers, first floor of City Hall, 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas, 77401 When: Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting 6:00 PM, Tuesday, April 14, 2015 Furtherinformationconcerningtheapplicationmaybeobtainedfrom the Development Services Department of the City of Bellaire at 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas during normal business hours. Ashley Parcus Planning and Zoning 43/43 To: Ashley Parcus Community Development Department Fax: 713-662-8212 From: Kathy Ballanfant FAX (713) 668-9453 Word count: 182 words Cost: $63.70 PO# Please sign and return this proof. I authorize this ad to run as is: Signature OR I authorize this ad to run with marked changes: Signature Advertising designed by Responsive Newspapers L.P.., dba Village News and Southwest News, is the property of Responsive Newspapers L.P. and may not be reused without written permis © 2015 Responsive Newspapers L.P. CITY OF BELLAIRE NOTICE OF PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SPECIFIC USE PERMIT HEARING 4601 BELLAIRE BOULEVARD Notice of a public hearing on an application filed by Roy Harper AIA & Associates, Inc, on behalf of Crosspoint Church/West University Baptist Church, owner of the property at 4601 Bellaire Boulevard, for a Specific Use Permit, as required by Chapter 24, Planning & Zoning, Section 24-532 B. (2), to allow for the construction of a youth building to be used for youth worship, ecclesiastical education, and community activities. This property is located in the R-3 Zoning District. Purpose: One (1) Hearing shall be held at which all persons interested in the proposed Specific Use Permit request shall be given an opportunity to be heard. Where: City of Bellaire Council Chambers, first floor of City Hall, 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas, 77401 When: Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting 6:00 PM, Tuesday, April 14, 2015 Furtherinformationconcerningtheapplicationmaybeobtainedfrom the Development Services Department of the City of Bellaire at 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas during normal business hours. Ashley Parcus Planning and Zoning 43/43 To: Ashley Parcus Community Development Department Fax: 713-662-8212 From: Kathy Ballanfant FAX (713) 668-9453 Word count: 182 words Cost: $63.70 PO# Please sign and return this proof. Fax #:713-668-9453 I authorize this ad to run as is: Signature OR I authorize this ad to run with marked changes: Signature Advertising designed by Responsive Newspapers L.P.., dba Village News and Southwest News, is the property of Responsive Newspapers L.P. and may not be reused without written permis © 2015 Responsive Newspapers L.P. NOTICE OF PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING BELLAIRE GARDENS REPLAT Notice of a public hearing on an application filed by Sandcastle Homes, Inc., owner of the property at 0 Newcastle and 0 Howard Street, for a subdivision replat to create twelve (12) single family lots north of Bissonnet Street, between Howard and Newcastle, to be known as “Bellaire Gardens.” This property is located in the Corridor Mixed-Use (CMU) Zoning District. In accordance with Section 212.015 of the Texas Local Government Code, if the proposed replat requires a variance and is protested in accordance with this subsection, the proposed replat must receive, in order to be approved, the affirmative vote of at least three-fourths of the members present of the municipal planning commission or governing body, or both. For a legal protest, written instruments signed by the owners of at least 20 percent of the area of the lots or land immediately adjoining the area covered by the proposed replat and extending 200 feet from that area, but within the original subdivision, must be filed with the municipal planning commission or governing body, or both, prior to the close of the public hearing. *Please Note: The proposed replat DOES NOT require a vari- ance. Purpose: One (1) Hearing shall be held at which all persons interested in the proposed subdivision replat shall be given an opportunity to be heard. Where: City of Bellaire Council Chambers, first floor of City Hall, 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas, 77401 When: Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting 6:00 PM, Tuesday, April 14, 2015 Furtherinformationconcerningtheapplicationmaybeobtainedfrom the Development Services Department of the City of Bellaire at 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas during normal business hours. Ashley Parcus Planning and Zoning 43/43 To: Ashley Parcus Community Development Department Fax: 713-662-8212 From: Kathy Ballanfant FAX (713) 668-9453 Word count: 294 words Cost: $102.90 PO# Please sign and return this proof. Fax #:713-668-9453 Phone#:713-668-9293 I authorize this ad to run as is: Signature OR I authorize this ad to run with marked changes: Signature Advertising designed by Responsive Newspapers L.P.., dba Village News and Southwest News, is the property of Responsive Newspapers L.P. and may not be reused without written permis © 2015 Responsive Newspapers L.P. CITY OF BELLAIRE NOTICE OF PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING BELLAIRE GARDENS REPLAT Notice of a public hearing on an application filed by Sandcastle Homes, Inc., owner of the property at 0 Newcastle and 0 Howard Street, for a subdivision replat to create twelve (12) single family lots north of Bissonnet Street, between Howard and Newcastle, to be known as “Bellaire Gardens.” This property is located in the Corridor Mixed-Use (CMU) Zoning District. In accordance with Section 212.015 of the Texas Local Government Code, if the proposed replat requires a variance and is protested in accordance with this subsection, the proposed replat must receive, in order to be approved, the affirmative vote of at least three-fourths of the members present of the municipal planning commission or governing body, or both. For a legal protest, written instruments signed by the owners of at least 20 percent of the area of the lots or land immediately adjoining the area covered by the proposed replat and extending 200 feet from that area, but within the original subdivision, must be filed with the municipal planning commission or governing body, or both, prior to the close of the public hearing. *Please Note: The proposed replat DOES NOT require a vari- ance. Purpose: One (1) Hearing shall be held at which all persons interested in the proposed subdivision replat shall be given an opportunity to be heard. Where: City of Bellaire Council Chambers, first floor of City Hall, 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas, 77401 When: Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting 6:00 PM, Tuesday, April 14, 2015 Furtherinformationconcerningtheapplicationmaybeobtainedfrom the Development Services Department of the City of Bellaire at 7008 South Rice Avenue, Bellaire, Texas during normal business hours. Ashley Parcus Planning and Zoning 43/43 To: Ashley Parcus Community Development Department Fax: 713-662-8212 From: Kathy Ballanfant FAX (713) 668-9453 Word count: 294 words Cost: $102.90 PO# Please sign and return this proof. Fax #:713-668-9453 Phone#:713-668-9293 I authorize this ad to run as is: Signature OR I authorize this ad to run with marked changes: Signature Advertising designed by Responsive Newspapers L.P.., dba Village News and Southwest News, is the property of Responsive Newspapers L.P. and may not be reused without written permis © 2015 Responsive Newspapers L.P. city of southside place ordinance no. 103 an ordinance amending Chapter 17 of the Code of ordinances of the City of southside Place, entitled “Traffic,” by specifically amending section 17 - 42, ‘Parking Prohibited - anytime’, by inserting in the schedule of such section an entry pro- hibiting parking on academy street on both the west and east side of the roadway. The signage will be placed on both sides of the roadway from the intersecting street of Bellaire Boulevard south to the city limits of southside Place. Passed and approved on March 12, 2015. olga G. Garza, City secretary 43/44 to: david moss fax: (713) 668-3305 from: kathy ballanfant fax: (713) 668-9453 size: 97 words cost: $33.95 Please sign and return this proof. I authorize this ad to run as is: Signature OR I authorize this ad to run with marked changes: tional traffic counters and asked if the counters they borrowed from Sugar Land had been calibrated so they were all counting the same thing. “I can’t answer that, I didn’t do the counts,” Lynch said. George Tracy next advo- cated for the church, arguing that the proposed youth fa- cility fulfilled the require- ment of being “reasonably compatiblewithnearbysites and usage.” “Weconsideritapositive reinforcement facility,” said Tracy. “There’s no alcohol, there’s no drugs, there’s no smoking. It’s clean as a whistle, a very nonthreaten- ing environment.” “We’re good neighbors,” Tracy concluded. “And we will continue to be that.” Reilly asked Tracy how he would feel if his neigh- bors decided to hold large parties twice a week on a regularbasis.“Youmightex- pect your neighbor might have a party once or twice a year, every once in a while,” Reillysaid.“Butdoyouthink it’s reasonably compatible if your neighbor had that sort of gathering twice a week, every week of every year? If I invited 200 of my closest friends over, do you think my neighbor might com- plain?” “Your neighbor might complain if they weresmok- inganddrinking,whichthese kids won’t do,” replied Tracy. While the Board’s delib- erations echoed many of the concerns brought up by Reilly and Kuykendall, their decision for a preliminary approvalofaSpecialExcep- tion for 3826 Milton, with conditions, was nonetheless unanimous. Reilly related he was ex- tremely surprised at the rul- ing at the end of the long night. “I was completely shocked,” he said. “They didn’t present any evidence whatsoever on the traffic impact of a fully occupied building. The ZBA is sup- posedtoruleonthebuilding, not on promises.” Due to the late hour, the Board did not issue a finding on the Amherst request, but Reilly believes the two is- sues were not bifurcated as the Board stated they would be at the start of the hearing. “Theysaidthattheydidn’t see how parking would be a problem because of new Amherstparking lot,”Reilly said of the Board’s delibera- tions.“I’mverydisappointed with their analysis.” Reilly agreed that the youth facility would be an asset to the church, but said, “The question is about whether it’s appropriate for the neighbors. The question is not about whether it’s ap- propriate for the church or valuable for the church.” “It’s not up to the neigh- bors to prove it is a burden, it’s up to the church to prove it’s not a burden,” Reilly added.“Theneighborswould not have been upset if it was 2,500 square feet. But at the end of the day, this is not a residential scale building. There’s gonna be parking on the street.” Reilly said he and Approval from page 2 Kuykendall will now “take some time to evaluate our right to appeal the decision in court.” “If this decision were ap- pealed to a court, there are more than enough grounds to overturn the decision,” Reilly said. The ZBA’s next meeting is currently scheduled for Thursday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. fluff piece to fill up time. It’s really wonderful.” LMNOP-A New Muzical is scheduled to run April 7- 19attheHobbyCenter.Visit tutsunderground.com/ LMNOP for more informa- tion. Holland from page 4 likeaconfusingrollercoaster of people believing in you andnotbelievinginyou.You have to decide who is worth believing, and that is kind of what Elle goes through as well. “As Elle, I figure out that the one person I need to be- lieve in is myself because believing in yourself never goes out of style.” She takes playing the role crafted by the iconic Reese Witherspoon in stride. “Idefinitelydon’twantto be exactly like Reese… I want to play my own Elle. I have definitely watched Reese many times,” she chuckles. Director Laura Pastorek talks very fondly. “She is amazing!” she exclaimed while walking by Mia who wasperchedcross-leggedon a chair. This is her first time hav- ing a lead role in a produc- tion,butitdoesn’tfazeherat all. She goes over her lines daily and sings her songs aroundthehouse.Hermother could probably be her stand- in for the amount she has heard the songs. “I run lines constantly. The only way to get your lines down is to keep on run- ning them,” she says. “I haven’t had time to take driver’s education because I have been so busy all the time.” Legally Blonde The Mu- sical contains adult humor, innuendoandmildlanguage, so parental discretion and guidance is advised. Perfor- mances are scheduled at Miller Outdoor Theatre for April2,3,4,9,10and11that 8 p.m. Free tickets are available the day of the show through the Miller Outdoor Theatre box office. For more infor- mation, call the Miller box office at (281) FREE-FUN. Tickets can also be reserved in advance by making a do- nationtoHITSTheatre.Con- tact HITS at (713) 880-3615 orvisithttp://hitstheatre.org/ donate. Mia from page 4
- 14. “When quality counts” 4229 BELLAIRE 713-666-8910 RICE ROOFERS Residential Commercial Roofing•Siding•Gutters Windows•Doors•Painting Exterior Improvement 713-645-0505 www.braunsroofing.com Since 1987 Storm Damage? March 31, 2015 Classifieds: (713) 668-9293 Email: submitad@village-southwest-news.com 5160 Spruce, Bellaire, TX 77401 Deadline: 4 p.m. every Friday 14 Campos ROOFING 713-680-3530 Commercial & Residential – all work guaranteed New Roofs • Re-Roofs • Repairs • Gutters • Windows www.camposroofing.com Since 1960 ® Preferred Roofing Contractor G R abriel’s oofing Painting Carpentry Gutters Free estimates. 713-862-4282 www.GabrielsRoofing.trustab.org Serving Houston for over 25 years. tile Classifieds 713-668-9293 ROOFING real estate plumbing Clean-Rite Pressure Washing Exterior Home Cleaning PressureCleaning•WindowCleaning•GutterCleaning 713-501-1351Fast, Free Estimates www.clean-rite.net Insured References PRESSURE WASHING repairs... call the best, we’ll do the rest! For all your plumbing installations and PlumbcoGary Bloch 713-725-5025 Free Estimates Mention ad for $25 discount MPL 17021 Call Johnny 713-256-0017 ASTRO PLUMBING &TILE Free Estimates Senior Discounts ASTROPLUMBING Reroutes &Tunneling for Kitchen & Bathroom Pipes Camera Inspection & Leak Detection Licensed & Insured • Master License 16312 Bellaire • West University • SW Houston Repair & Remodel Experts MENTION AD $20 OFF• Drain Cleaning • Sewer Lines • Water Lines • Faucets • Water Heaters • Shower Pans • Yard Drains • Permits • Gas Lines & Testing • Toilets • Whole House Generators 23 YEARS EXPERIENCE Video Pipe Inspection Under Slab Leak Repair & Drain Cleaning WeRepair/Replace Disposals•WaterHeaters•Commodes•Faucets Sewer,Gas&WaterLines•ShowerPans 713.665.5890NOW OFFERING 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE $25OFF PlumbingService $150OFF AnyServiceOver$1000 Classifieds 713-668-9293 List Your Home In the REAL ESTATE Classifieds Call Today! (713) 668-9293 Garage, Attic, Construction Clean-up, Dirt, Concrete & Furniture. Local Business Fully Insured Call or text Frank Alfano for immediate response email: alfanostrashremoval@yahoo.com www.trashandjunk.com TRASH HAULING u-Call I-Haul (Anything) Garage & Attic Clean Outs Rental Property &Estate CleanOuts (713) 962-5091 Brooks Tile Service Repair & Restoration Specialist Shower Pan Repairs 713-249-0627 GaryBrooks,Owner • 25+YrsExp. 1/2 price plumbing Remove & Replace Faucets, Sinks, Tubs & Commodes Most Plumbing Needs Free Estimates 713.298.9212 Professional Tree Service Doug Webb: Arborist Commercial and Residential Insured for Your Protection Proudly Serving Houston 29 Years 713-545-7436 Tree Arts ✳ Pruning ✳ Stump Grinding ✳ Aesthetic Trimming ✳ Removal ✳ Installation ✳ Consultation Jesse & Henry Experts on Trees Specialist Tree Service Tree Trimming, Pruning, Topping, Take Downs, Stump Grinding, Dead Wooding, Fertilizing, etc. Since 1981 Free Estimates Bonded & Insured 9706 S. Kensington Dr. 281-565-6560 281-564-0337 trees DON’S TREE SERVICE Doing it right since 1972 713-771-6784 • Fully Insured • Free Estimates • Emergency Service • Residential & Commercial www.DonsTrees.com REPAIR & REMODEL SPECIALIST • Water & Sewer Lines • Gas Lines/Gas Tests • Sprinkler Systems • In-Line Water Filters • Faucets & Disposals • Shower Pans • Water Heaters • Kitchen Fixtures • Bath Fixtures • Yard Drains Call Chris Perot 713-667-7500 www.perotplumbing.com Master License 17909 • Bonded/Insured • Located in Bellaire Free Estimates • $20 OFF with this ad PEROT plumbing SAME DAY SERVICE Senior Citizens Discount 713-779-7511 or 281-685-4142 Commercial • Residential • Bonded & Insured omez trees & landscaping We Now Install Sprinkler & Irrigation Systems www.gomeztreesandlandscaping.com Call 7 Days a Week for a Free Estimate • Over 30 Years Experience MEDINA TREE SERVICE TREE REMOVAL • TRIMMING • PRUNING STUMP GRINDING • LOT CLEARING FREE ESTIMATES • BONDED • INSURED www.MedinaTreeServiceHouston.com nicolas.medina15@hotmail.com 713-466-4612 713-301-8584 sprinklers SprinklerRepair SpringTune-Up Call Jack 713-382-7016 LivingTrees&Shrubs,Inc. All Facets of Tree Care • Tree Trimming • Tree Removal • Fertilization • Landscape Design&Lighting ( 8 7 3 3) Since 1988 • Fully Insured 713-464-TREE MEDINA STUMP GRINDING Professional Work 713-301-8584
- 15. Professional Estate Sale Services www.houstonestatesales.com Penny Millican, Accredited Appraiser BBB A+ Rated Let Us Handle All the Details! 713-666-0970 Moving, Downsizing or Inherit an Estate? We Handle Estates with Care! Visit the website! margiebeeglesales.com •FREE consultations •Lots of local references Jennifer Beegle, Estate Broker and ISA Accredited Appraiser Margie Beegle Sales 713-478-3293 Call (713) 668-9293 for advertising information. Village News & Southwest News reach more homes in Southwest Houston each Tuesday than any other newspaper! ReachYour TargetMarket! Classifieds: (713) 668-9293 Email: submitad@village-southwest-news.com 5160 Spruce, Bellaire, TX 77401 Deadline: 4 p.m. every Friday March 31, 2015 15 stuff for sale garage & estate sales The Marketplace «««« Formal Dining Table & 8 Chairs Mahogany in antique Chip- pendale style (reproduction purchased 1992 from Houston antique dealer). Table: Satin finish, gadrooned edge; length 76" without leaves, 114" with two leaves. Carved legs with ball & claw feet. “Sentry” brand protective table cover included. Chairs: 2 arm & 6 side chairs, carved, with ball & claw feet. Seats upholstered with English floral tapestry. $4,500 OBO. (713) 661-6240. LB 43/43 thai bed Plus custom sheets for sale. $500. Call (713) 772-9396. LB 43/43 bellaire garage sale Saturday, April 4 only. 8am - noon. 4928 Holly. Antiques, art, furniture, designer clothing & housewares. UPHOLSTERY windows Emilio’s Upholstery COMPLETE HOME UPHOLSTERY Free Estimates Satisfaction Guaranteed Office: 713-869-9379 Emilio Castillo, Owner • 1449 West 25th In Business Since 1977 JLP WINDOWS Vinyl,Aluminum,FiberGlassWindows Patio Doors Replacement CustomOrders•LowEGlass EnergyEfficientProducts NoiseReduction•LifetimeWarranty FREE ESTIMATES • MAJOR CREDIT CARDS 281-578-1124 www.jlpwindows.com $500 DISCOUNT with 10 Windows Replacement Moving must sell quickly Upright piano, excellent condition. GE refrigerator. Please call (713) 771-0056. LB 43/43 “We were inspired by the original architecture of the home,” says Darbonne. “He wasadentistandanarchitect andhehaddesignedacouple other houses in the neigh- borhood. One previous owner was an attorney for the Houston Oilers. I think the original owner moved to Israel because he was a Zi- onist. He designed the home so that he could show films in the home. There was a projector room in the main living area, which was odd. The home did not have any specific bedrooms – it was all living space.” There are seven Timothy Oulton chandeliers through- out the home, including a five-foot rustic Orb in the openconceptlivingareanear the front of the house. Inside and outside the home, re- claimedwoodandbricksthat have been re-milled or re- weathered with a Japanese technique, shou-sugi-ban, used in Japan for thousands of years. “It gives the wood a protective barrier that pre- vents fire or deterioration,” saysDarbonne. “Ontheout- side, we used bousillage to strengthentheverticalappli- cations. French colonial set- tlers used this technique in the 18th century architecture in the South.” Scents of aromatic cedar and premium select Ceylon and Gykuro teas fill the kitchen at Palo Verde, a single level home, not far from Braes Heights, the Texas Medical Center and NRGStadium. Kitchenwalls are finished in Carrera marble, complete with an antique cedar pantry and hand poured vintage brick oven. Smooth purposeful cuts that would drive some cut- terscrazypunctuatetheVer- mont soapstone on the 10 x 8 self-serve kitchen island. Calvin and Trey searched several continents for the el- ements that would give their home the vintage feel. The sprawling home stretches out in three wings which do not touch and there are two separate water heat- ing systems, one for the liv- ing quarters and one for the kitchen. In the media wing, a projector and screen the size of the back wall invites visitors in for movie night, under the neon Cinema sign. One of the bedrooms is decorated with camouflage sheets, fur throws, a punch- ing bag with vintage boxing gloves and two giant antique airplanepropellers.Themas- ter suite is punctuated by a behemoth bronze stag hung above the board. In the mas- terbath,whitetilessimilarto Showplace from page 1 thoseinsubwaystationscre- atethespa-sizedshowerwith bronze fixtures. Twin beige chaiseloungeslooklikethey camestraightfromTheGreat Gatsby set. “Who doesn’t want a coffee bar in the mas- ter bath?” asks Lewis. The swimming pool and outdoor dining area has a coziness uncommon in such a large space. More photos are on the Lewbonne Development website and there’s an inter- esting video. A fireplace and pool grace the patio of the home. local theater in Rice Village for “Heartbreak House” and “Coast of Utopia,” a play about the rise of revolution in mid-19th century Russia. “Nobodyhereremembers himcominginhere,butJohn Kwiatkowski worked at the Borders on Kirby for years, and he frequented there,” says McKenna Jordan, owner, Murder by the Book. “Also, he frequented Brazos Bookstore, 2421 Bissonnet, close to his condo. Appar- ently crime novels were of no interest to him...” “He came in a couple times in the last few weeks,” says Ben, who preferred not to give his last name. “We had not seen him before that. He was interested in Texas Durst from page 7 books and art books that we had – books of photography. He was very polite, asked a lot of questions and asked for help to find certain things.” “Why does anyone pick Rice Village?” he asks. “It’s asafeneighborhood.There’s great culture, you are cen- trallylocated,youhaveMain StreetTheaterandit’sagood place to live.” Some neighbors on Robinhood say they never saw Durst while dogwalkers report he would stand in the intersection of Kelvin and Robinhood screaming at people, for no apparent rea- son. At Haus Bierhaus, di- rectly west of 2520 Robinhood,withitsownhis- tory of litigation with the condo, regular customers confirm that Durst had no thirst for their craft ales and lagers. Durst could look down at the beer garden’s bocceballcourt,handsomely lit by several $10K flood- lights installed courtesy of the condo owners. StephanieLawsonatCre- ativeManagement,oversees management for 2520 Robinhood, the 14-story highrise with concierge whereDursthasresidedsince 2007. She says the building has 78 units, all under con- tract now with no openings. She says the building was developedbyStaubachCom- pany. Thedevelopmentfirm wascalledAmicusatthetime of groundbreaking but that company no longer exists. One of the home’s magnificent living areas.
- 16. Village News / Southwest News ◆ March 31, 2015 16 Council. “Currently when you commit to go to 610 north or south, the direct connectorturningon610southwill bereconstructedandwillcomeback down to grade when you get to Westpark. Two lanes go north and one lane goes south. TxDOT plans to make this southbound connector a two-lane direct connector. “WecameupwithwhatTxDOT is calling “the Bellaire proposal.” That will follow virtually the verti- cal alignment that’s there today. The new proposal takes away the ability for cars in mainlanes com- ing from the Galleria to exit at FournaceasTxDOTrestrictsweav- ing on the mainlanes, and takes themtotheBellaireBlvd.exit. That will put a heavier emphasis, more delay time and more traffic on the Bellaire Blvd. intersection, but it keepsthedirectconnectoratgrade. TxDOT is proposing to handle that with a double exit, and foresees the need for additional right of way (ROW). This is very preliminary. They are also planning to build a double U-turn at Bellaire. We’ve had our traffic engineer look at the additional volumes. It’s not a tre- mendousdelaytime,maybeathree- minute delay in total. “Ifyouaretravelingfrom59Sto 610 south, that ramp will actually connect to the new connector, so they can exit Fournace,” Andrews says. Councilman Andrew Friedberg asked about the purchase of ROW and any possible savings associ- ated with going lower elevation. “If there is ROW to be purchased, TxDOT will have to purchase it,” says Andrews. “It’s not a savings for them. No it is pretty much a wash. It was pretty remarkable they were willing to sit down and talk with us. Jim Blackburn carries a big stick.” City Manager Paul Hofmann said a big part of getting TxDOT to acquiescewasconvincingthemthat an alternative design would work. “James deserves a lot of credit for that,” he says. “We don’t think the ROW is a big impediment but we haven’t spoken to the property owners. We want to assist TxDOT in conversing with the property owners.” Councilmember Pat McLaughlanhashisdoubts.“When those buildings along 610 were constructed in the plan develop- ment process, the plan required a certainamountofgreenspace.Iam concerned the right of way will take that green space and put more concrete.” He has said repeatedly that “TxDOT is in search of a problem on which to waste the taxpayer money. This plan is only less bad TxDOT from page 1 that the last plan. This plan is bad for Bellaire. Of all the problems, this is least. If they want to see a problem, go on the other side of the freeway (where all the accidents are, echoed CM Gus Pappas). This is a horrible plan for the City of Bellaire and I’ll take the opportu- nity to vote against it.” “Imagine you are heading to- ward Bellaire on the SW Freeway from downtown, you take the exit ramp that goes either north or south,” says McLaughlan. “You haveachoiceofexitingtoFournace or staying on and exiting on Bellaire. That ability to exit on Fournace will be taken away. This is going to place a heavier burden on Bellaire Blvd. and place a time and traffic burden on people trying to reach Chevron and the Chase Bank building.” He worries about the freeway interchange creating a larger dead zone. “Theinterchangeisdesigned inawaythatpeopledrivingthrough the interchange cannot reach desti- nations in proximity of the inter- change,” McLaughlan says. “Just to clarify, the elevated rampisoffthetable,”askedMandy Nathan. “If you like this plan, they will have a public hearing and flush out all the issues with the citizens. We’re going to help them bring people out to the Civic Center,” says Andrews. “Is Jim Blackburn standing down?” asked Nathan. “Has he ac- complishedwhatwewantedhimto accomplish?” “We still have drainage issues so he will be involved,” Andrews says. Pappas asked, “In the bigger picture,thiswillhappenonewayor another,whetherwegiveitayeaor a nay. This is just a function of us Champion,ReserveChampion,and Showman in each animal category and place the animals in sale order fortheauctiononSaturday. Thisis a great opportunity for anyone in- terested to come out and see what the Bellaire FFA is all about. Many students of all ages are inspired to join FFA after seeing the show. Saturday is Auction Day! A fun day of shopping at the Silent Auc- tion begins at 11 a.m. followed by the Livestock Auction at 1 p.m. The auctioneer is straight from the Houston Livestock Show and live- stock will be sold to the highest bidder. Livestock includes steers, heifers, hogs, lambs, goats and chickens. Buyers will be given processing options for the quality meatpurchased. The2014Bellaire FFA Grand Champion Steer sold FFA from page 1 doing everything we can to miti- gate, it sounds like the ramp is going away, so something needs to be done to protect those two lanes exiting Bellaire with the double U- turn,somethingneedstobedoneto protect the drivers who aren’t turn- ing. I get honked at all the time.” “We’re going to be brought to the table with those kinds of de- tails,” Andrews says. for $8,500. Ifyouareinterestedinattending the Livestock Auction to purchase an animal, contact FFA advisor Mark Peak by emailing mpeak@houstonisd.org to register before the big event. Those intend- ing to purchase livestock will be treated to lunch in the exclusive “Buyer’s Tent” at 11 a.m. Attention Shoppers… while the livestock buyers are having lunch, you may enjoy bidding on items ranging from jewelry to hunting trips to themed baskets filled with all kinds of goods at the Silent Auctionbeginningat11a.m. Con- cessions by Skratch will be on the premises for all in attendance and the food is delicious. Don’t be shy, come out and see why Bellaire FFA rocks!