So, this is what a Down House is...

Well, I was wrong in my speculation about the new "club" going in on Yale- explaining why I never heard back from the pizza guy. Luckily, I did hear back from someone. Chris Cusack is a Houston native who is hoping to parlay his successes with 2 Austin coffee shops in to a new venture in the Heights. Here are some excerpts from Chris's email, giving more insight in to what, exactly, Down House will be:

About Down House

The idea is something like this: One-third of our product focus will be on great coffee, one-third on outstanding casual faire (sandwiches, salads, appetizers, gourmet bar snacks), and one-third on a great wine list, craft beers, and vintage, hand-crafted cocktails. We're planning on a dazzling Sunday brunch. It'll be a warm and casual environment with a sincere focus on hospitality and being a real cornerstone in the Heights community. Down House will be the kind of place where you can have a meeting with clients, catch up with friends, go on a date, or just get some work done. Down House will always be a family-friendly spot.

About Us

Joey (Chris's partner in the club) and I are both from Houston, and I actually attended Heights Montessori School (which used to be on Harvard) as a kiddo. I had a hamburger at Yale Pharmacy the other day, and I mentioned that I used to eat ice cream at the same counter when I was about four years old. She laughed and said that she'd been working there so long that she probably made one for me!

I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and have since owned and operated two successful neighborhood coffee shops in Austin called Thunderbird Coffee. My deeply held beliefs on quality ingredients and great service have been strengthened since we opened several years ago. Our baristas can make a cappuccino that will blow your mind!

Joey and I have always wanted to create a place like Down House, but we never thought we would be so lucky to have a great space in such an amazing neighborhood. We plan on making our greatest effort to make Down House of the Heights and for the Heights.

About Club Down House

We are applying for a private club liquor license, but I really want to make it clear that Down House is not a bar. Again, the focus on that part of the program will be a strong wine list, delicious craft and local beers, and unique cocktails made with the best ingredients. The "club" part of the name on the sign refers to the non-profit status of the member-owned club (because that part of the Heights is dry) that will technically own the license and the alcohol. Down House, LLC will only manage the club.

Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? Chris and I chatted a bit about the family friendly aspect and he is very open to suggestions on how it can be a place for some of you non-breeders to relax, while I can come along with my kids and enjoy food and drink as well. If you have (real, not snarky) opinions on how that can work, please post them! I do remember (sometimes fondly) the days before I was a mom and know that not everyone enjoys their company, but those people can also go drink in bars. And being a mom often means needing a drink.

One interesting point about being a private club in the dry area that I wasn't aware of: The law stipulates that the initial stock of alcohol MUST be bought by the members of the club. Because of this, Chris needs help and has something to offer in return.

Incidentally, we are looking for new members of the club to sign up and donate a $20 stocking fee to Club Down House. With every $20 donation (limit one per person!), we are offering a $25 gift certificate to Down House. I would love to have some of your readers on board.

So, if you're interested you can email me about it and I'll be sure Chris gets your name and contact information.

Heights Happenings: November 10- November 17, 2010

Friday, November 12, 6 PM- 9PM: The Artful Corner opening reception for Heights artist Chris Silkwood

• The Artful Corner is starting the Holiday Season off with an exclusive showing of small works by local mosaic artist, Chris Silkwood
• Chris learned the art of mosaic more than 12 years ago when living in Australia. She had the opportunity to study with the artists of ArtBusters, a renowned mosaic studio in Brisbane, Australia. After returning to the United States, she also took classes at the famed Mosaic Art School in Ravenna, Italy.
• Also, raffle tickets are still available to win a large collection of art pieces in support of the Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF). $20 each or 6 for $100.

Saturday, November 13, 10 AM- 4 PM: Houston Arts & Media presents Houston History Book Fair & Symposium

• HAM is very excited to present their first Houston History Book Fair & Symposium.
• Hosted at Heights Church of Christ, itself a 1924 City of Houston Landmark, 16th at Heights.
• A different author will be speaking in the church library every half hour, on the half hour. Many of the top books on Houston's past will be available. Hear about local history from the people who tell the stories.
• Book signing and door prizes
• There will also be a panel discussion with Acadia Publishing "at midday" which will cover researching and publishing a book on area history.

PLAN AHEAD/ OUTSIDE THE HEIGHTS

Friday, November 12, 5 PM- 9 PM: Feed Awareness with Connect Houston

• Join Connect Houston for a night of networking with Houston’s best to heighten awareness around hunger and homelessness in our community.
• Proceeds benefit local Houston charity, Noah's Kitchen, to help their "SleepOut Saturday" event, kicking-off National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.
• Stefani Vara, local Houston recording artist, will be performing live.
• Minimum donation of $10 required for entry. Donate and RSVP HERE
• Hosted by The Manor, 4819 Washington Avenue

Saturday, November 13, 10 AM- 2 PM: Comp-U-Dopt and TechnoCycle electronic recycling at Discovery Green

• Both organizations will be on hand to collect old electronics during Discovery Green's weekly recycling stations. Comp-U-Dopt is a local non profit organization that provides recycled/refurbished computers to children.

December 7- 10, 2010: Spacetaker’s Winter Holiday Art Market (WHAM) comes to The Shops at Houston Center as part of Downtown’s Holiday Spectacular.

• Now in its 5th year, the event will feature hand-crafted items by more than 25 local artists including jewelry, sculpture, photography, paintings, clothing and more. Doors will be open Tuesday-Friday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday evening will be a shopper’s delight, with happy hour shopping from 5-8 p.m.
• Food and refreshments will be served, with live entertainment and artists who will display their wares for one night only.
• “We are so excited to bring the uber-unique WHAM market to downtown for the holidays,” said Angie Bertinot, director of marketing and communications for Downtown District.
• For more information about WHAM and a list of participating artists, visit www.winterholidayartmarket.com. For a complete guide on all the events during the downtown Holiday Spectacular, visit www.downtownhouston.org or become a Facebook fan.

I'm not taking sides

However, I want to share this email. The videos that are intended to demonstrate, once and for all, what the Historic Ordinance does and does not do. This might not change your mind either way. Most people who are for are for, no matter what. Most people who are against are against, no matter what. BUT the discourse around the issue has been so confusing and so much misinformation has been put out there that maybe, just maybe, this presentation can set the record straight so when we talk about it, we're talking in facts....

Get the facts about Houston’s historic preservation ordinance

View the Planning & Development director’s online presentation

Preservation opponents continue to spread misinformation and disinformation about the recent changes to the historic preservation ordinance. Do not let scare tactics spur you to make an impulsive decision that could have long-lasting effects for you and your neighbors.

A factual presentation by Planning & Development Director Marlene Gafrick is available online explaining what the amended ordinance does and does not do. Use the links below to view the four-part program:

Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRJrDd6cb7A

Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ae5DyFiwuk4

Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tp81p1Yq2HQ

Part 4: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8X3IpwWfcs

If any of these links do not work, please visit www.youtube.com and enter “Marlene Gafrick” in the search engine.

Please share this information with your neighbors and please do not sign any petitions regarding Houston’s historic districts. These petitions could result in the dissolution of Houston’s designated historic districts and the loss of preservation protections for you and your neighbors.

If you have any questions regarding the preservation ordinance, please get your answers from the people responsible for administering the ordinance by contacting Planning & Development Department staff at historicpreservation@houstontx.gov or 713-837-7701.

The City of Houston has posted a summary of the amendments and what they mean on the Planning & Development Department website. [Click here] to access that information.

Header photos: Courtlandt Place Historic District,

Audubon Place Historic District,

Westmoreland Historic District.

Photos by Jim Parsons and David Bush.

What's a Club Down House?

This is just speculation on my part but it may be something a lot like Denver's Cucina Colore. A couple months ago, I got an email wondering if I had any opinions on how the Heights would react to a new restaurant going in to the "dry area" around 19th. Of course, I have opinions but aside from my own, I asked around. I would say 90% of the people I spoke with were very open, some even excited about the idea. I passed this information on and then just a couple months later, I find the TABC permit for a private club in the very window that was asked about: the former Grateful Images building at 1801 Yale.

Grateful Images was one of my 1st company profiles and they will always have a special place in my heart for that (cue sentimental music ), but I am excited that there will be a restaurant in this location. I think the Cucina Colore concept could be a good one in this space. It sort of reminds me of what California Pizza Kitchen would be like if it was actually any good (Disclaimer: I take my kids to CPK a lot).

Again, this is total speculation on my part. Emails to the possible business owner have not been returned and, frankly, I am no good at researching TABC licenses. But if anyone else is, Club Down House is the applicant for the Private Club License. Let us know what you find out!

For anyone wondering the how and why of the Private Club and dry area, here is a very simple explaination: You can serve alcohol in the dry section of the Heights (or anywhere) if you are a private club. Patrons have to become "members" to order adult beverages. If you've ever been to Shade and had a cocktail or wine, you know how this goes. They ask for your ID and ring it up in some little TABC machine and viola, you are a member. There is no cost (at least not if the establishment is smart) and you are a member for some period of time, probably a year. That's all.

People like to complain that it's too hard to be a "private club" and that no restaurants will ever open where it's dry. Well, we have plenty of BYOB establishments that prove it doesn't necessarily take liquor sales to make a successful eatery. Also, one of the biggest "restaurant rows" in Dallas is in a dry area. Oh, and there is that little place Shade that I mentioned, which does pretty well.

I am strongly in favor of keeping the dry area as such, but I think if we have a few people who are willing to go the private club route, the 19th Street area can use more businesses that attract an evening crowd to the vicinity. Otherwise, it's plenty wet up and down Studewood.

Heights Happenings: November 3- November 10, 2010

Saturday, November 6, 10 AM- 4 PM: St Andrew's Autumn Bazaar

• The Bazaar will feature more than 40 area artisans, crafters, and specialty vendors.
• Items available for purchase will include home décor, jewelry, gourmet foods, purses, handmade quilts, art and photography, toys, bath and body products, candles, aprons, baby items, home baked goodies and much, much more!
• Musical performers will include the Reagan High School Jazz Band.
• Admission to this annual shopping event is free. For a full list of vendors visit St Andrew's website
• 1819 Heights Boulevard

Saturday, November 6, 11 AM- 3 PM: Helms Elementary's Fall Festival

• In keeping with a 20 year tradition, Helms Community Learning Center, a Height’s area dual language elementary school, is rolling out their annual Fall Festival.
• Admission is free and tickets for delicious hot food, concessions, face painting, games, pony rides, and raffle tickets that offer a chance to win an Apple IPod. All proceeds from the Fall Festival go directly to support programs for the students at Helms.
• Helms Community Learning Center Spark Park, 22nd at Lawrence

OUTSIDE THE HEIGHTS:

Tuesday, November 9, 7PM- 10PM: Citizens for Animal Protection's's Art Bark 2010

• Cocktails, buffet dinner and art... all for the animals at CAP's shelter. The Art Bark is a silent auction of art, sculpture,and objets d'art benefitting Citizens for Animal Protection. The party will also feature the premiere of CAP's annual calendar, featuring CAP supporters and their four-legged friends.
• Hosted by Evie Melcher & Magic Schwarz, 426 Thamer Lane, 77024
• Tickets: $50 per person. You can find a Reply Card on the Event Facebook page

I've actually had more than one person recently tell me they wish they knew more about the Heights house concerts that happen. Well, here you go!

Saturday, November 6, Rouse House Concerts presents Chuck E Costa

• Guests should arrive between 6:15 and 7:15 pm for drinks and a pot luck dinner prior to the concert. No need to bring any food (other than a bag of canned goods for donation). Deb and Linsey will be serving red beans and rice and chili. They also provide coffee and lemonade but please bring your choice of beverage should you prefer something else.
• Music will begin at 7:30 pm.
• RSVPs are required due to limited seating and will be on a "first come/first served" basis. Due to guidance from ASCAP and BMI, Rouse House cannot accept payments prior to the party. They are suggesting an honorarium of $20 per person, which can be paid by cash.
• To RSVP, please email Rouse House with the number of guests who will be attending. rouse_house_concerts@yahoo.com
• 
  

Friday, November 19, 7:00 PM: Kolanowski Studio presents Vince Gilbert

• "The voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar of a god..." "The lyrics alone are better than almost anything else you’ve heard..." Fort Worth Star Telegram
• Technically this is a private party. Attendance is by invitation only. If you would like to attend, please email Kim (kim@kolanowskistudio.com) or Greg (greg@kolanowskistudio.com) and get on the mailing list. They will send you a form to complete to RSVP.
• RSVPs with payment are required due to limited seating and will be on a "first come/first served" basis.
• The cost is $20 per person, with all proceeds going to Vance. You can pay by check or Paypal.
• Guests should plan to arrive between 7:00 and 7:30 pm for drinks and snacks prior to the concert. The Studio provides hors d' oeuvres and soft drinks but you can bring your choice of beverage if you's like wine or something else. Music will begin at 8:00 pm.

Friday, November 19, 8:30 PM: The Listening Room at Nia Moves presents Alejandro Escovedo

• It's not a "house concert" but it's about as intimate as you can get outside of someone's living room. The Listening Room at Nia Moves was voted #1 music venue in Houston in the recent Click2 poll!
• The venue feels pretty certain this will sell out and only has 30 tickets available as of 11/2. If you're interested in this great show, do not hesitate. You can buy tickets here via Nia Moves.
• $32.50 in advance. $40 at the door if there are any left.

Feeding A Need

Around the time I 1st bought my house in the Heights, roughly 6 years ago, the rhetoric about the neighborhood involved a lot of "Do you think it will be safe?" or "Well, what are you going to do when you have kids?" Granted, these types of questions mostly came from work associates who lived in the suburbs, but it was indicative of the times and looking back now shows how much times have changed. The reputation of a neighborhood takes time to catch up with the reality of what that neighborhood is, so while it was safe and family oriented in 2004 people outside the Beltway didn't really know that until recently. Now, when I say I live in the Heights, I get lots of "Oooo, I love the Heights" and "Oh, I hear that is a wonderful area." This new reputation has it's pros and cons, to be sure (and I know I don't need to spell those out for you), but the neighborhood deserves the positivity. I do still miss rolling my eyes at those questions though.

However, even as we get close to the end of that "gentrification" cycle, we remain a mixed neighborhood. In many parts of the Heights, or very close by, working class families live next to young professions and middle class families. Poor in one house, not poor in the next. While the Heights Blvd walking path may be a great place to scope out the latest and greatest baby gear, in other parts of our own neighborhood, families are struggling to put food on their tables.

Luckily, families and individuals in need have a place where they can get some of the basic things the rest of us take for granted. The Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Bank is where neighbors help neighbors; those with more in the Heights can help those with less in the Heights.

The Heights Food Bank, a collaboration of Christ the King Catholic, St. Mark's United Methodist, The Vinyard and Zion Lutheran Churches in the Heights, serves families and individuals in need on a weekly basis. The majority of their clients are what are known as "the working poor"- people who work but are living paycheck to paycheck, having trouble paying their bills and providing basic food and household needs at the same time. Demand has increased at the Food Bank in recent months due to a shaky economy. Many local families are struggling as one or both parents take a cut in income or lose their job altogether. And, of course, then there is the fact that donations are dropping for the same reasons.

The shelf for orange juice sits empty. Juice is one of the high demand products. It still amazes me that a family can get a 2 liter of soda for $.99 but the cost of a healthy alternative is prohibitive.

The Pantry opened it's doors in June of 2009. Since opening, they have served the needs of 16,644 people from zip codes 77008 and 77009. They expect the number to increase significantly by this time in 2011. In just the last couple of months, the number of clients (family units or individuals) coming on Saturdays has doubled. The Pantry is providing for 70-100 clients a week. One thing that surprised me is that when you look at the monthly numbers, there is no double dipping. A client can only come by the Pantry every 30 days. The one exception to this is the homeless population. Homeless are welcome to come more often for several reasons, one being that they typically take a very small amount, only enough to last a couple days at a time.

A dry erase board keeps a tally of the clients the Pantry serves. In their 1st year, 2009, they served just over 6100 people. They have served that many almost twice over again this year and demand is growing. The happy heart on the bottom reminds us that, as a local organization, this is "Neighbors helping Neighbors."

When the doors open on a typical Saturday morning, there will already be families waiting. At the door, they are issued a number, keeping order as more families and individuals arrive. When their number is called, a volunteer will escort them to an interview area. The family will have to present both a photo ID and a bill or piece of mail showing their 77008-77009 address. While the intention is to serve these zip codes, Co-Director of Operations Alice Bongers says they never turn anyone away and occasionally get someone from outside the area. Still, helping people means helping all people and who could turn away someone in need?

After their client card is created, they talk with the volunteer about their needs and a food authorization ticket is issued. The ticket will list the number of adults and children in the family, what their biggest needs are and also some small details like are they driving or walking, which can make a big difference in what they are able to take. Alice says that paying attention to these small details makes a big difference in how well the Pantry serves its clients.

A recent donation of 12,000 LBS of pork patties and ground beef had Alice giddy as a school girl. She couldn't wait to show me the newly stocked fridge which had been sitting empty just a few days before. While 12k LBS is undoubtably a huge donation and a real boon, it will only last the Pantry about 4 weeks.

Alice says that the clients are often eager to show their appreciation for the help the Pantry offers. The Pantry is a 100% volunteer organization, not one paid staff member. Often, volunteer needs are filled by their clients as a way to give back and say "thank you." They are in need of volunteers at any time, especially bi-lingual speakers to assist with the interview process. If you have a couple hours on a Saturday, the Heights Pantry could really use your help. If Saturdays don't work, Alice and her volunteers work when they can and she is open to finding a way to use your time.

Volunteer Mary O'Sullivan worked with Alice mid-day on a Wednesday. I just happened to call and see about dropping off some bags, lucky to find them there. Sorting donations is just one of the many areas where you (and your family) can volunteer to help your neighbors.

CURRENT AREAS OF GREATEST NEED:

• Pasta sauce
• Canned soups- especially with pull tab tops
• Canned vegetables
• Soap and toiletries
• Tampons and feminine hygiene products
• Diapers

Pasta with sauce is an easy and filling meal for a family. These staples are always in high demand and low supply at the Pantry.

While the Pantry does not necessarily collect clothes, they will take donations of items in good condition. Clothing is laid out and clients are able to "shop" it, taking a few useful items for their family.

Unlike some other food pantries, Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry gladly accepts perishable items like fresh veggies and meat. St Mark's Church actually has a garden that grows some veggies for the Pantry. They have also partnered with Urban Harvest for some donations but fresh fruit and vegetables are something that is so out of reach cost-wise for many low income families. If you can grab a couple of large bags of apples at Costco, you can help a lot of families get something healthy in the cupboards!

Canned soups are another high demand item. The Pantry volunteers try to keep the ones with pop tops for the homeless, who may not have access to can openers. Other easy open, shelf stable foods are also appreciated.

The Heights Interfaith Food Pantry

3523 Beauchamp

713-861-6155

Thurdays 5-7 PM & Saturdays 9 AM- Noon

Alice Bongers also welcome you to call her with questions or to volunteer.

713-447-7624

Heights Happenings: October 25- November 3, 2010

This Sunday, October 31 is Halloween, so please keep your eyes open for all the little ghouls and goblins roaming the streets on Sunday night. We have one the best neighborhoods in Houston for trick-or-treating, so we also get a lot of visitors. Please drive safely.

Saturday, October 30, 4 PM- 6 PM: Dia de los Muertos poetry reading at Heights Books-Libros

• John Milkereit, Gilberto Arriaga, Gilberto Arriaga, Blanca A. Alanis
• All new and used books will be 30% off
• Great local art will also be available
• Food and drinks will be served
• 502 E 20th, Ste D

Saturday, October 30, 4 PM- 9 PM: Brooksmith's 3rd Annual Day of The Dead celebration

• More than 1,000 people are expected to attend and enjoy diverse entertainment, including performances by the La Paloma flamenco dancers, the Grupo Azteca dancers plus Mariachis and 3 other wonderful bands on two stages, porch bands, food, beer/wine, a farmers market, art vendors, and children’s activities.
• Monte Beach Park
• Check the Heights Day of the Dead Facebook page for more information, including vendors

Sunday, October 31, Noon- 3 PM: Pugs Hearts fundraiser at A Peaceful Pet

• A Peaceful Pet is hosting a Costume Contest with all the entry fees going to support PugHearts Houston Pug Rescue. All pets, any species, are invited to attend.
• Entry fees are $5.00 per pet.
• Sandy also has some new watercolors on display by local artist Adine Rotman. These paintings of fall foliage will be available to view and purchase now through December 3rd. Sandy will make a $45.00 donation to PugHearts for any painting purchased during the Halloween event.
• Scoop le Poop Pet Waste Removal Service has donated a gift certificate for one entire month of FREE pet waste removal. A $125.00 value. Tickets are 1 for $5.00 or 3 for $10.00.

PLAN AHEAD:

Saturday, November 6, 10 AM- 1 PM: Houston's Out of the Darkness Walk at Stude Park

• In the United States, a person dies by suicide every 16 minutes, claiming more than 33,000 lives each year. It is estimated that an attempt is made every minute; with close to one million people attempting suicide annually.
• This walk benefits the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the leading national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy.
• Online registration closes at 11:45PM, Friday, Nov 5. However, anyone who would like to participate can register in person at the walk! Please know that walk donations are accepted until December 31st, 2010. Check in starts at 9 AM.

• Event details and registration information here

Heights Snapshot: Parking Lot Dance Party

Sunday, September 26

Roughly 7 PM (AKA "almost bedtime")

Antidote Coffee

729 Studewood

Antidote regulars I Am Mesmer, who also play their White Linen Night event and other sporadic shows, had a couple members come out for a Sunday night performance and the kids were rocking. Cars parked back, leaving space for a makeshift dance floor. My sons were the only boys in a sea of princess dresses, but that didn't intimidate them. They know they're good dancers. Ha! It didn't take long for adults to get the hint and get their feet moving, too. From the day it opened its doors, Antidote has been a neighborhood favorite, offering a low key atmosphere that welcomes young, old, hipster, yuppie, workers and players alike. If you want a snapshot of who and what make up the Heights, simply swing by this coffee shop for a beverage and look around (oh, and if you don't know, they also have beer and wine).

Heights Happenings: October 20- October 27, 2010

Saturday, October 23, 10 AM- 3 PM: Quality Feed Store Customer Appreciation Day

• A true gem in the Heights, Quality Feed has been serving this community since it opened its doors in it's current location in 1928. According to The Leader, Quality Feed is believed to be one of the country's oldest Purina feed and garden stores.
• The customer appreciation shin dig will be family friendly with lots to do and see: horse and buggy rides, face painting, food, door prizes, and a photographer to take families photos.
• This great business almost left the Heights, so go out and support them. This is Houston's history!

• 4428 North Main

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• I don't know what these bullets are but they won't go away because Blogger sucks.

Sunday, October 24, 8 AM- 2 PM: HHA Urban Forestry Day

• Free entertainment, free trees and other goodies.
• Heights Fire Station, 12th at Yale

OUTSIDE THE HEIGHTS:

Sunday, October 24, 2 AM- 4 AM: 38th Annual Moonlight Bike Ramble, brought to you by Bike Houston

• Prizes for best costume and best lighted bike.
• Helmets are required.
• Chose either a 10 or 20 mile route, both begin and end at the George R Brown downtown.
• Check the website for other rules and all registration information

IN OTHER NEWS:

The Leader is currently taking nominations for the 29th Annual Leader of the Year.

• Created in 1982 to enhance and spotlight positive news coverage, the award strives to "focus public attention on those many persons in our area that give of their time and resources to make their community a better place in which to live."
• Nomination Form