Last Minute Local Shopper: Father's Day

Yesterday, I tootled around the neighborhood looking for Father's Day presents. I found a wealth of fun gift options, even if I didn't seem to find just the right thing for my boys' dad. Now it's Friday and I have nothing. If you're in the same boat as me, here are some of the great ideas I found in the Heights. Maybe this procrastinator can make it a little easier for the others last minute shoppers out there...

For information on availability and pricing, give the stores a call. Your local business owners are always happy to help! 
(and please forgive the crappy formatting as Blogger is being even more annoying than usual, sending text for no known reason outside of the frame)

Casa Ramirez

241 W 19th St  (713) 880-2420 Sometimes I forget that Casa Ramirez has so much more than just cool  Dio De Los Muertos stuff. These great guayabera shirts come in a bunch of light, tropical colors  and there was a good assortment of sizes.

Or how about father/son shirts for extra fun? Kids sizes I saw started at 2t.

Also, everyone loves Dad as "King of the Grill." 

Casa Ramirez has an amazing selection of books, including cookbooks of all kinds.

Bliss on 19th

235 W 19th St 

(832) 673-0099

My husband had once mentioned wanting a bowl for his work desk 

to keep some pieces of fresh fruit in.

While this key bowl isn't food safe for that purpose, 

it is a great size for mail or other junk dads probably keep on their desks.

I bought one of these for my husband last year. 

It's a diffuser but without "all those sticks coming out" that he didn't want. 

Also, spill proof so safe for use around his work computer and paperwork.

Desk/mantle clocks are always a good gift if you're looking for more of a keepsake.

Grace Hart and Company

313 W 19th St

I almost feel bad sending anyone in here. 

I can literally lose hours of my life in this expansive store full of

things you don't need but feel compelled to own anyway. 

I loved these vintage card glasses!

There is one seller in GH who carries sports memorabilia and had this cool rack of old comic books. Great stuff if Dad is a "collector."

Does Dad dig Mad Men style? 

This 2 piece mid-century corner table was only $145. 

With MCM being so on trend, it's hard to find pieces at affordable prices any more!

Dramatika

331 W 19th St (713) 868-5050 Known mostly as a frame shop, Dramatika is always worth a peek when gift shopping. They carry some nice greeting cards, fancy papers, some framed art,  and little gift items like these.

Eclectic Home

345 W 19th St

(713) 869-1414

This masculine and surprisingly sturdy table at Eclectic Home 

would look great in the corner of a man cave or office.

It doesn't come cheap, though. This would have to be a pretty special year!

If you're looking to spend less than a high end occasional table costs, there are these super cool sand art pieces. There is a variety of sizes and, therefore, a variety of price points. The one at the top of this photo is roughly 3' wide, to give you an idea. These were originally brought in to the shop at Father's Day gifts a couple years ago and have done so well, they now keep them year round.

CODA

355 W 19th St

(713) 864-4411

CODA is packed full of fun entertaining gifts. These aprons go back to the whole "King of The Grill" notion.

Eco-friendly and Dad-ish, these drinking glasses are made from exactly what they look like they're made from- beer bottles. There are also non-alcoholic versions from soda bottles and wine glasses.

One Green Street

3423 White Oak Dr

(281) 888-9518

These great hankies are sold at OGS and made by another local business, Paule Hewlett's Beyond Her. Paule also makes incredible knit scarves, tank dresses, and dish towels. Buy yourself a little something while you're at it! Double local shopping whammy!

These stainless steel wallets are pretty funky, too. If they're at OGS, you can bet they have a cool story about how they're upcycled!

Artist made key chains are a nice token gift if Dad doesn't already have a lanyard made by his kiddo (like mine does).

While at One Green Street, you can also check out their great line of men's skin care and buy some fresh coffee beans roasted by Boomtown Coffee. Another double Heights shopping prize!

Heights Vinyl

3122 White Oak Dr

(281) 974-1234

Is Dad a rocker, or just nostalgic? Heights Vinyl has cool headphones and turntables. 

Tons of records--- if he doesn't want to listen to vinyl, 

his fave record can still make cool wall art!

They also carry a lot of band t-shirts, 

although they are sold out of the "I'm not moving to Austin" shirt.

Hello Lucky 1025 Studewood St (713) 864-3556 I didn't actually go in to Hello, Lucky yesterday  because my husband has about a dozen t-shirts from there. I had to share this HL Facebook photo though,  because if Dad doesn't have one of these bad boys, he needs one! Saw a guy at the Galleria in one a couple weeks ago and it brought a huge smile to my face. They come in kiddo sizes and women's cut as well.

Did you find something fun or creative for Dad in the Heights? Share in the comments!

Heights Happenings: May 29- June 5, 2013

Thursday, May 30, 7 pm- 8 pm: Sunset Heights Social 

• The next meeting of the Sunset Heights Civic Assoc will be a social held at the Boom Boom Room. 
• There will be no program. This is an opportunity to meet neighbors and visit a locally owned business. This event is open to everyone.
• Boom Boom Room at 2518 Yale 

Saturday, June 8, 6 pm- 9 pm: Friends for Life celebrates turning 1! (sort of)

Lobby of the F4L shelter on 22nd. Photo: inhabitat.com

• This is not their 1st year in existence but it is definitely a milestone year for the organization! Help the Heights favorite rescue organization blow out the candles as they celebrate the one year mark of being the only No Kill, green shelter in Houston.
  They promise a fun, casual evening! 
• After brief highlights of the year’s accomplishments, you’ll enjoy music, drinks and delicious appetizers from Whole Foods. Strike a pose in a photo booth and experience the unveiling of a unique donor wall!
• RSVP: adoptfriends4life.org/rsvp
• Don Sanders Adoption Center, 107 E 22nd

Friday, June 7, 5 pm- 6:30 pm: One Green Street hosts The Houston Dairy Maids

• Two of my favorite Heights businesses together! Join OGS as they bring the Dairy Maids in for wine and cheese sampling. Experience the awesomeness of Houston Dairy Maids and their exceptional cheeses. They will be also speak on their unique business model. Cheesy goodness will be available for purchase as well.
• This event is sure to be a delightful happy hour experience.  
• This is a FREE event!
• 3423 White Oak

PLAN AHEAD

Saturday, June 8, 7 pm:  Kolanowski Studio Presents - Wendy Colonna  

• Doors Open at 7:00. Please arrive between 7:00 and 7:45 pm for drinks and food prior to the concert.  Music will begin at 8:00 pm. 
• Tickets are $20
• 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. You may pay by check or Paypal.
• If by check, please email Kim or Greg for details  kim@kolanowskistudio.com  or  greg@kolanowskistudio.com
• If by Paypal, use greg@kolanowskistudio.com as the email address for payment.  Also, please include a $1.00 processing fee (as well as necessary information about your reservation).

Monday, June 17, 6:30 - 9 pm: MNO/DIY at Thread

• Threadies love Kim Kaiser, a local mom, and her hand painted watercolor prints currently for sale at Thread. 
• Join Thread for this mothers’ night out as Kim teaches the basics of watercolor $20/person
• Thread will provide the supplies; you bring your girlfriends and some wine!  No artistic talent required.  
• Note that Thread has moved to a new space: 249 W 19th C- where Buffalo Exchange used to be!

IN OTHER NEWS

First Saturday Arts Market will switch to evening hours starting June 1. 

• This marks the seventh summer the market has switched to evening hours to help you beat the heat.
• The market features the works of dozens of visual artists; showcases paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and handcrafted items. Super family and visitor friendly with live music and deliciousness from some of the area’s best gourmet food trucks. 
• Open year-round on the first Saturday of each month, the market is open from 6-10 p.m. June, July and August.
• Located next to Gen’s Antiques, 548 W. 19th St. at Lawrence 
• For more information visit www.FirstSaturdayArtsMarket.com or call 713-802-1213.

OUTSIDE THE HEIGHTS

Saturday, June 1, 10 - 3 pm: Hurricane preparedness workshop

Hurricane season begins June 1. Are you ready? 

• The City of Houston, the National Weather Service and CenterPoint Energy invite you to attend the 23rd annual Houston/Galveston National Weather Service Hurricane Workshop. 
• This free, family-friendly event, will be held at the George R Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas, Houston 77010.
• This year's presenters include Houston Mayor Annise Parker, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, representatives from the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM), meteorologists from Houston-area TV stations and National Hurricane Center Director Dr. Rick Knabb. 
• Information will be available in English, Spanish and American Sign Language.
• For more details on the workshop and to register online, visit hurricaneworkshop.com. Preregistration is encouraged but not required.
• More emergency preparedness information is available online at houstonoem.org and readyhoustontx.gov.

Experience a metamorphosis of color during GreenStreet Graffiti, a special artistic event held at GreenStreet, June 3 – 6. 

• While there are those that want to paint the town red, others prefer to use the entire spectrum of colors! Such will be the case at GreenStreet as the popular downtown dining and entertainment center prepares to come alive with color!
• Come see art-in-the-making when local graffiti artists, Gabriel Prusmack, Kelyne Reis, Wiley Robertson and the acclaimed Aerosol Warefare Gallery’s GONZO247, transform the property’s monochromatic walls into a vibrant mix of bold colors and graphic art! Throughout the four-day event, art aficionados and downtown hipsters are encouraged to stop by and interact with the artists as they work. And just as the last puff of aerosol is applied, the entire community will be invited back onsite for a special unveiling party filled with festive music and free entertainment, Thursday, June 6 from 5 – 8 p.m. 
• GreenStreet Graffiti will be free and open to the public. No reservation is required and cameras of all types are welcomed.  
• For more information on events and special offerings at GreenStreet, visit www.greenstreetdowntown.com

Heights Happenings: May 23- May 30, 2013

Saturday May 25th, 11am- 4pm: First Baptist Church Heights (9th & Harvard) Benefit for the Hale family

• First Baptist is hosting a benefit for Travis Dad and Woodland Heights' resident Jeff Hale, who suffered a massive stroke this past November. Lacking insurance and now a means of income, his family is facing financial challenges in additional to their emotional and his physical concerns.  Jeff and his wife Kari have lived in the Heights for many years, and their son is a 4th grader at Travis. It's one of those things that you never think could happen to such a young family.
• The event will feature a Classic Car show with Live Music, Food, Vendors, Silent Auction, Games, Door Prizes.  
• There's no fee to attend, and there are a number of ways you can help:
• Donate items for the silent auction
• Online donations can be made at http://www.gofundme.com/1rf4sw If you have problems with the link, go to www.gofundme.com and search for Jeff Hale. Click on "Friends of Jeff Hale" to donate.
• Volunteer to help
• Enter a classic car for $25 (they have just a few spaces left!)
• Attend the event (admission is free!) and make purchases.  Sounds like it will be  fun event!
• If you have any questions or would like to donated a silent auction item or even volunteer, contact Vicky Bettis at 713.397-9336.

Saturday, May 25, 6 pm – 9 pm: The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Greater Heights presents- The Brazarre:  An Artful Bras Event and Silent Auction

• The third annual Brazarre is an art opening showcasing imaginative renditions of the bra.  Local Houston artists have submitted three-dimensional art works to show their interpretation of the bra.  
• The art works will be sold in a silent auction that also includes Houston-area merchant contributions. 
• All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life Greater Heights.  The event is a fun, interactive, and creative way to join the fight against cancer and raise funds for the American Cancer Society.  There will be a $5 donation at the door. 
• Light bites catered by Liberty Kitchen, live music, and the chance to experience and purchase some very unique art.
• “The Brazarre is a festive, and meaningful way to celebrate and honor those who have battled cancer while raising money for a great cause,” said Vicki Eaker, event coordinator.  “Houston artists have been so generous in supporting The Brazarre. Their artful bras are inventive, beautiful, one-of-a-kind and have a story to tell.”
• G Gallery, 301 East 11th St

Sunday, May 26, 3 pm- 6 pm: Jazz Forever at the Houston Heights Woman’s Club

• Heights resident George Chase and his ten-piece band, Jazz Forever, will be playing from 2 sets of Dixieland in the HHWC’s historic Clubhouse!
• They have a new CD, which will be offered for sale. As a side note, they just started recording their second CD last Saturday morning at a Heights area studio, Wire Road Studios.
• The band includes Eddie Lewis, George Chase, Thomas Hulten, Doug Wright, Martin Langford, Gary Zugar, Mike Owen, Thomas Helton, Gilbert Sedeno and Bobby Adams
• 1846 Harvard St

Monday May 27, Noon: Memorial Day remembrance with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee 

• Congresswoman Jackson Lee will be at the WWII Memorial located on the corner of 11th and Heights Blvd in the Houston Heights Community in honor of Memorial Day.
• The flag ceremony will provide hand held flags for attendees to post in memorial of our country's heroes!  
• There will be light refreshments provided by Brooks Family BBQ!!

PLAN AHEAD

Thursday, May 30, 7 pm- 8 pm: Sunset Heights Social 

• The next meeting of the Sunset Heights Civic Assoc will be a social held at the Boom Boom Room. 
• There will be no program. This is an opportunity to meet neighbors and visit a locally owned business. This event is open to everyone.
• Boom Boom Room at 2518 Yale 

Saturday, June 8, 6 pm- 9 pm: Friends for Life celebrates turning 1! (sort of)

• This is not their 1st year in existence but it is definitely a milestone year for the organization! Help the Heights favorite rescue organization blow out the candles as they celebrate the one year mark of being the only No Kill, green shelter in Houston.
  They promise a fun, casual evening! 
• After brief highlights of the year’s accomplishments, you’ll enjoy music, drinks and delicious appetizers from Whole Foods. Strike a pose in a photo booth and experience the unveiling of a unique donor wall!
• RSVP: adoptfriends4life.org/rsvp
• Don Sanders Adoption Center, 107 E 22nd

Friday, June 7, 5 pm- 6:30 pm: One Green Street hosts The Houston Dairy Maids

• Two of my favorite Heights businesses together! Join OGS as they bring the Dairy Maids in for wine and cheese sampling. Experience the awesomeness of Houston Dairy Maids and their exceptional cheeses. They will be also speak on their unique business model. Cheesy goodness will be available for purchase as well.
• This event is sure to be a delightful happy hour experience.  
• This is a FREE event!
• 3423 White Oak

IN OTHER NEWS

First Saturday Arts Market will switch to evening hours starting June 1. 

• This marks the seventh summer the market has switched to evening hours to help you beat the heat.
• The market features the works of dozens of visual artists; showcases paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and handcrafted items. Super family and visitor friendly with live music and deliciousness from some of the area’s best gourmet food trucks. 
• Open year-round on the first Saturday of each month, the market is open from 6-10 p.m. June, July and August.
• Located next to Gen’s Antiques, 548 W. 19th St. at Lawrence 
• For more information visit www.FirstSaturdayArtsMarket.com or call 713-802-121

OUTSIDE THE HEIGHTS

Experience a metamorphosis of color during GreenStreet Graffiti, a special artistic event held at GreenStreet, June 3 – 6. 

• While there are those that want to paint the town red, others prefer to use the entire spectrum of colors! Such will be the case at GreenStreet as the popular downtown dining and entertainment center prepares to come alive with color!
• Come see art-in-the-making when local graffiti artists, Gabriel Prusmack, Kelyne Reis, Wiley Robertson and the acclaimed Aerosol Warefare Gallery’s GONZO247, transform the property’s monochromatic walls into a vibrant mix of bold colors and graphic art! Throughout the four-day event, art aficionados and downtown hipsters are encouraged to stop by and interact with the artists as they work. And just as the last puff of aerosol is applied, the entire community will be invited back onsite for a special unveiling party filled with festive music and free entertainment, Thursday, June 6 from 5 – 8 p.m. 
• GreenStreet Graffiti will be located between Fannin and San Jacinto and features four different walls of art. Drawing inspiration from “Houston is…”, a national ad campaign that positions Houston as a culinary and cultural capital, the various panels will showcase the artists’ own interpretations of what it means to be “Hip”, “Tasty”, “Funky”, and “Inspired”. With backgrounds ranging from self-taught artistry to the more traditional techniques of the Glassell School of Art at Museum of Fine Arts Houston, visitors will no doubt be exposed to an amazing display of dynamic and exhilarating imagery. 
• GreenStreet Graffiti will be free and open to the public. No reservation is required and cameras of all types are welcomed.  
• Following the event, GreenStreet will experience yet another transformation as construction begins on the 568,294-square-foot facility. Changes include removal of existing implements in the interior corridor, adding in mid-walk crossings between the three blocks and creating a new linear urban park. Tenants and retailers onsite will remain open during construction, which is estimated to take between six to nine months. 
• For more information on events and special offerings at GreenStreet, visit www.greenstreetdowntown.com

Heights Happenings: May 16- May 22, 2013

Thursday, May 16, 5:30 pm- 7 pm: Happy Hour with the HHWC

• Are you curious about the Houston Heights Womans Club? This is a great event to attend! No agenda or program, just mingling with members and guests. It’s a great way to meet people involved and find out more about the social events and community service projects the Club has coming up!
• Shade Restaurant, 250 W 19th
• RSVP on Facebook or email info@thehoustonheightswomansclub.com

Saturday, May 18, 5 pm- 7:30 pm: Spring Smores party for Woodland Heights residents

• Live in the Woodland Heights? Bring the whole family to the Norhill Esplanade in the Woodland Heights for Hot Dogs and S'Mores Saturday evening
• Roast a marshmallow, relax on your picnic blanket, talk with your neighbors
• Sponsored by the Woodland Heights Civic Association

Sunday, May 19, 10 am- 4 pm: Historic Houston’s Salvage Warehouse open to public

• Are you looking for materials for a home renovation or other project? Historic Houstob’s warehouse has all kinds of treasures from lost Houston buildings.
• 4300 Harrisburg Blvd
• Only cash or checks will be accepted
• Become a member of HH! Download the application here

Tuesday, May 21, 6:30 pm- 7:45 pm: P.R.I.A. prospective parent meeting 

• Does your child struggle with learning? Po'no Ragazzi International Academy believes they may be what you have been hoping to find. P.R.I.A. offers a unique range of educational learning experiences for students ages 11-16
• All Saint’s Church, 215 E 10th, Learning Center Room 5
• RSVP here

Wednesday, May 22, 7 pm- 9 pm: “Wines that jazz up fast food” at the Corkscrew

• The Corkscrew offers this crazy tasting where they will be pairing tastings of wines with popular fast foods from Chipotle, Jack-N-The-Box, Panda Express, Subway, Taco Bell. Matching today's lifestyles with wines of today is the goal of this experimental wine tasting. Lead by Corkscrew owner and resident comedian Andrew Adams, the two hour tour through wine and fast food will include opportunities for Q&A, so bring a list of your favorite foods with you and let Andrew help you pair it with the perfect wine!
• 3 pricing options:
• $30 per person, register online www.localwineevents.com
• $15 per person for COOL card customer loyalty members, please call to reserve your space 713.230.8352
• $35 per person for the May 22 tasting and a COOL card membership that includes ½ off food Wednesday nights, discounts on tastings, VIP table access Thursday-Saturday nights performances in the Piano Lounge and other surprises as they pop up on our Facebook page and newsletter. 

• Please call to reserve your space. 713.230.8352 You can pick up your COOL customer loyalty card at The Corkscrew on the night of the event. You will also need to "Like" them on Facebook to see COOL card member specials.
• Please register by Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at www.localwineevents.com. This event is capped at 50 people, first come, first served. In order to accurately accommodate enough food for all attendees tickets will not be sold at the door.  

PLAN AHEAD

Saturday May 25th, 11am- 4pm: First Baptist Church Heights (9th & Harvard) Benefit for the Hale family

• First Baptist is hosting a benefit for Travis Dad and Woodland Heights' resident Jeff Hale, who suffered a massive stroke this past November. Lacking insurance and now a means of income, his family is facing financial challenges in additional to their emotional and his physical concerns.  Jeff and his wife Kari have lived in the Heights for many years, and their son is a 4th grader at Travis. It's one of those things that you never think could happen to such a young family.
• The event will feature a Classic Car show with Live Music, Food, Vendors, Silent Auction, Games, Door Prizes.  
• There's no fee to attend, and there are a number of ways you can help:
• Donate items for the silent auction
• Online donations can be made at http://www.gofundme.com/1rf4sw If you have problems with the link, go to www.gofundme.com and search for Jeff Hale. Click on "Friends of Jeff Hale" to donate.
• Volunteer to help
• Enter a classic car for $25 (they have just a few spaces left!)
• Attend the event (admission is free!) and make purchases.  Sounds like it will be  fun event!
• If you have any questions or would like to donated a silent auction item or even volunteer, contact Vicky Bettis at 713.397-9336.

IN OTHER NEWS

Registration is now available for one of Houston’s most popular small runs—the Houston Heights Association’s 28^th Heights Fun Run, to be held on Saturday, June 1, 2013. 

• The fast out-and-back 5K course is held on the beautifully scenic and historic Heights Boulevard. The race starts and ends at Marmion Park and includes a 5K Fun Run, a 5K Walk, and a Kids 1K.
•  The 5K course is certified, and disposable Chip Timing will be conducted by Run Wild Sports Timing. Each entrant receives a 100% cotton commemorative t-shirt. The 5K Fun Run starts at 7:30 a.m., the 5K Walk starts at 7:35 a.m., and the Kids 1K starts at 8:30 a.m. Each kid participating in the 1K receives an award.
•  The Post-Race Party begins at 8:00 a.m. at Marmion Park, and the Awards Ceremony starts at 9:00 a.m. There will be entertainment, door prizes and refreshments, including tacos, fresh fruit, bagels, water, coffee and more!
• To register online for the Heights Fun Run, visit the Fun Run page at www.houstonheights.org. Online registration is available through May 31 at 8:00 p.m. Registration is also available at Luke's Locker on May 30-31 or at Marmion Park on race day.
• The fee for the Fun Run and Walk is $25 until May 28, and $30 May 29^th and after. The Kids 1K is $15 until May 28, and $20 on May 29^th and after. Credit cards are accepted.
•  Packet pick-up will be at Luke’s Locker at 1953 West Gray on May 30-31. Packets will also be available at Marmion Park, 18^th Street and Heights Boulevard, from 6:15 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. on race day. 
• For more information, call the Houston Heights Association at 713.861.4002, extension 4, or email funrun@houstonheights.org

For those of you who live in Woodland Heights, it’s time to renew your annual membership in the Woodland Heights Civic Association.  

• You can go to http://www.woodland-heights.org/membership.htm to sign up.  
• You can also read about the many benefits of membership in the WHCA and how your dues are used.  
• If you have any questions, please email Tim McConn, VP of Membership this year for the WHCA.  tmcconn@akllp.com

The Sunset Heights and East Sunset Heights need Citizen Patrol Volunteers!

• The neighborhoods have had a citizen patrol group for the last four years.  They are now recruiting new residents to help with the citizens on patrol.  Volunteers just need to attend a short training session with the Houston Police Department.  
• Patrols are done from your car.  Your coming and goings in your car can count as patrol hours.  Each patrol volunteers does just a few hours a month.  
• If you are interested in participating then please contact Buster Pendley busterpendley@yahoo.com.  

OUTSIDE THE HEIGHTS

Friday, May 17, 6-9pm: Food Revolution Day Houston

• Everyone is welcome to Food Revolution Day of Houston at The Last Organic Outpost Emile St Research Farm. It's a community potluck to get people all over the world talking about real food and food education with family and friends, in schools and at work and within the wider community. 
• Bring a dish to share, a blanket and eating utensils. There will be local chefs on hand at the kids cooking station! 
• This event is FREE.
• 711 N. Emile Street, Houston, TX 77020
  
  

Heights Happenings: May 9- May 16, 2013

Friday, May 10 to Sunday, May 12: Celebrate Mother’s Day at Buchanan’s

• Take a Picture with Mom in our Garden. Bring mom & your camera, we’ll provide the perfect back drop. (Fri-Sun).
• Michael Shoup will be signing his latest book, “Empress of the Garden”. Get a personalized copy for mom.
• Refreshments in the Bungalow (Sat. & Sun.) 
• 611 E 11th, open 9 am- 6 pm daily

Saturday, May 11, 10 AM: AIA Bike Tour of The Heights

• This fun tour will explore the original foot print of the Heights, “Texas’ and Houston’s first mixed-use community and home to 120 of the 215 National Register of Historic Places listed in Houston.” Your AIA guide will point out a wide variety of building types that are historic and original to the area as well as more recent architecture and discuss how these fit into the context of the neighborhood.
• Reservations are required for this tour as attendance is limited.
• You may ride your own bicycle or bicycles may be reserved through ArCH and rented from Houston B-Cycle for an additional fee. Bike helmets are not provided with tour registration or bike rentals. We encourage you to bring your own helmet.
• Tour will meet at the Heights Branch of the Houston Public Library, 1302 Heights Boulevard. If you drive, they asl that you park in the street and not the library parking lot, it is reserved for library patrons.
• $5 ArCH and AIA Houston Members; Architecture students with current ID
• $10 non-members
• Questions? arch@aiahouston.org or 713-520-0155

Saturday, May 11, 10 am- Noon: May meeting of BWIGH

• This month the Baby Wearing International Group: Houston will discuss “The Wonderful World of Wraps!”
• They will discuss the basics of Wraps: the different types, care and where to buy! Bring your favorite carriers or one you need help with — or try on something new! One-on-one help will be available in addition to general babywearing demonstrations and safety discussions led by our experienced babywearing educators. So whether you're curious about babywearing, an old pro, or somewhere in between, this meeting will have something for everyone.
• Meetings are always free and open to everyone — children of all ages are welcome!
• Facebook event page

Saturday, May 11,10 am: Join the Heights Garden Club in the garden of Helen Hansen - 1124 Waverly 

• The Hansen’s wanted to enjoy sitting and entertaining in their gated front garden area. Helen Hansen likes to experiment with different plants and grow herbs. She wanted paths so her son could ride his bike from the drive way across the space.  She wanted to use low cost building materials and she wanted it to be unique. The Hanson’s garden is a modern solution to a front garden where a lawn didn't thrive. Ravenscourt Landscaping used cement stepping stones and planted easy care plants and herbaceous perennials. Outside the fence they created a place to chat with neighbors and welcome guests. The yard became a fun, functional space to watch the world go by!
• If you would like to walk with the landscapers through the process of installing this garden, visit http://www.houzz.com/projects/150616/Modern-no-lawn-front-yard-

Saturday, May 11, 11 am- 3 pm: Exodus party at A 2nd Cup

• They’ve poured their hearts and souls and a whole lot of coffee into the Incubator Space at the Vineyard Church, but it is time for A 2nd Cup to grow into a fully-fledged coffee shop.
• Join them as they say thank you to their gracious hosts, amazing volunteers and lovely customers and say goodbye to their first nest. They’ll be sharing what's next for A 2nd Cup and how you can keep up with all of the things they’ll be up to.
• The party will have food trucks, live music, survivor made wares for sale, kids’ activities, and obviously coffee!
• 1035 E 11th St, in the Vinyard Church

Sunday, May 12, Noon- 4 pm: Mother’s Day Craftacular

• Celebrate Mother's Day with Craftacular at Hello Lucky
• This lovely, hand-picked group of artist and crafters will show you why buying local is best
• 1025 Studewood

Sunday, May 12, 3 pm: Houston Heights Orchestra presents A Sojourn of Fervor – Music of Mahler and Beethoven

• In their second year, the Houston Heights Orchesta has finally hit their stride and is growing and performing better than ever before! Members live in or near The Heights, and range from doctoral-level music students to engineers, teachers, full-time moms, and retirees.  There are “hardly any are professional musicians - most of us are just people who happen to play an instrument and love getting together to do it!” says violinist Laura Williamson.  This makes their concerts more intimate, more casual, and much more affordable than the Houston Symphony. This is the group's second year (we had a rough start last year, but have done tremendously this year).  They only plan four big concerts a year so this is a great opportunity to see them and support music and musicians in the Heights.
• This will be a great afternoon of Romantic music, including Mahler:  “Songs of a Wayfarer,” featuring Lisa Borik, soprano
• Beethoven: Symphony No. 1
• Follow HHO here: https://www.facebook.com/houstonheightsorchestra
• $10 ($5 student)
• Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2025 West 11th St., Houston, 77006

Thursday, May 16, 5:30 pm- 7 pm: Happy Hour with the HHWC

• Are you curious about the Houston Heights Womans Club? This is a great event to attend! No agenda or program, just mingling with members and guests. It’s a great way to meet people involved and find out more about the social events and community service projects the Club has coming up!
• Shade Restaurant, 250 W 19th
• RSVP on Facebook or email info@thehoustonheightswomansclub.com

PLAN AHEAD

Saturday May 25th, 11am- 4pm: First Baptist Church Heights (9th & Harvard) Benefit for the Hale family

• First Baptist is hosting a benefit for Travis Dad and Woodland Heights' resident Jeff Hale, who suffered a massive stroke this past November. Lacking insurance and now a means of income, his family is facing financial challenges in additional to their emotional and his physical concerns.  Jeff and his wife Kari have lived in the Heights for many years, and their son is a 4th grader at Travis. It's one of those things that you never think could happen to such a young family.
• The event will feature a Classic Car show with Live Music, Food, Vendors, Silent Auction, Games, Door Prizes.  
• There's no fee to attend, and there are a number of ways you can help:
• Donate items for the silent auction
• Online donations can be made at http://www.gofundme.com/1rf4sw If you have problems with the link, go to www.gofundme.com and search for Jeff Hale. Click on "Friends of Jeff Hale" to donate.
• Volunteer to help
• Enter a classic car for $25 (they have just a few spaces left!)
• Attend the event (admission is free!) and make purchases.  Sounds like it will be  fun event!
• If you have any questions or would like to donated a silent auction item or even volunteer, contact Vicky Bettis at 713.397-9336.

IN OTHER NEWS

For those of you who live in Woodland Heights, it’s time to renew your annual membership in the Woodland Heights Civic Association.  

• You can go to http://www.woodland-heights.org/membership.htm to sign up.  
• You can also read about the many benefits of membership in the WHCA and how your dues are used.  
• If you have any questions, please email Tim McConn, VP of Membership this year for the WHCA.  tmcconn@akllp.com

The Sunset Heights and East Sunset Heights need Citizen Patrol Volunteers!

• The neighborhoods have had a citizen patrol group for the last four years.  They are now recruiting new residents to help with the citizens on patrol.  Volunteers just need to attend a short training session with the Houston Police Department.  
• Patrols are done from your car.  Your coming and goings in your car can count as patrol hours.  Each patrol volunteers does just a few hours a month.  
• If you are interested in participating then please contact Buster Pendley busterpendley@yahoo.com.  

OUTSIDE THE HEIGHTS

Friday, May 17, 6-9pm: Food Revolution Day Houston

• Everyone is welcome to Food Revolution Day of Houston at The Last Organic Outpost Emile St Research Farm. It's a community potluck to get people all over the world talking about real food and food education with family and friends, in schools and at work and within the wider community. 
• Bring a dish to share, a blanket and eating utensils. There will be local chefs on hand at the kids cooking station! 
• This event is FREE.
• 711 N. Emile Street, Houston, TX 77020