westchasetoday - Houston

WESTCHASETODAY
YEAR 15 | ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2013
THE NEWSLETTER
FOR
AND
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY WHERE BUSINESS IS MOVING
Burton Construction Serves Up
Old Los Tios HQ as Modern Offices
Una renovación con clase: Originally built in 1976 for Los Tios Mexican Restaurants, 10550 Westpark Drive is
now home to Burton Construction. (M
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rad Burton observed construction of
10550 Westpark Drive in 1976, and for
more than two decades he drove by it
envisioning its potential.
The property served as administrative offices,
commissary and warehouse for Los Tios Mexican
Restaurants, a Tex-Mex chain founded in 1970 by
Tom and Rosemary Garbett.
Aged skin, but good bone
structure
Meanwhile in 2002, Burton opened Burton
Garbett ran a commercial kitchen at the location.
She sold the chain in 2000; the commissary closed
retrofitting such structures.
Burton determined Westchase District’s position
Construction, a contracting firm specializing
near four major highways suited his company
in hotels, office buildings, retail spaces and
better than his former location. He decided it
warehouses.
was time to make his move. His company began
“I had my eye on the old Los Tios building since
2009,” he said. “It looked utilitarian and through
To ensure uniformity in salsas and queso, Mrs.
Burton’s company has expertise in reinforcing and
the years had become an eyesore. However, it had
‘good bones,’ which is what intrigued me.”
The edifice features tilt-up concrete walls;
renovating the building this year in February and
moved in by late April.
“Some said I was crazy for keeping the building,
but I saw its potential. Even in its dilapidated state,
I knew we could make something out of it. I’m
(continued on pg 2)
in 2006.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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HOUSTON TX
Westchase Newsletter 6-13.indd 1
Cultivating a
Growing Community
Corporate Challenge
Benefits Summer Camps
PG 3
PG 6
Splashing around
Wetchase, uh,
Westchase District
A Singer, a Songwriter
and a Patrol Officer
PG 4
Public Safety Alliance
hosts Crime Stoppers
Hidden Treasures Await
at Upscale Resale Stores
PG 5
PG 7
PG 7
Neighborhood News
PG 8
7/1/13 10:28 AM
WESTCHASETODAY
The Westchase District is a municipal
management district funded by local property
owners in a 4.2 square mile area centered
on the Sam Houston Tollway between I-10
and US-59 in Houston, Texas. It is home
to 81,000 employees and 28,000 residents.
We promote and encourage economic
development through programs that enhance
public safety, area mobility, area marketing,
area image and beautification.
STAFF
Jim Murphy
Mark Hubenak
General Manager
Public Safety Director
Dave Gilkeson
Tom Gall
VP, Chief
Operating Officer
Assistant Projects
Director
Sherry Fox
Jonathan Lowe
VP, Communications
Assistant
Communications Director
Irma Sanchez
Irene Pavlovsky
VP, Projects
Receptionist
Westchase District:
A Community on the Edge
I
n Edge City: Live on the
New Frontier, author Joel
Garreau redefined how we
evaluate and respond to suburban
development. Westchase was
identified as one of the nation’s
“edge cities,” putting us on the
map.
A common characteristic
of an edge city is having used
bookstores. They speak to an
element of intellectualism, a
sense of maturity and life cycles,
as well as a notion of permanence.
Westchase District’s General Manager Jim Murphy and Board Chairman
Reading this issue of Westchase
Mark Taylor.
Today reminds us of these
qualities with respect to the addition of two new
As Granite Properties completes the 300,000
resale stores, bringing our total to five. These
square-foot Briarpark Green, they’re using their
stores pride themselves on having high quality
previous landscaping experience to apply new
merchandise. Prices are reasonable, but certainly
irrigation technologies to curb waste and runoff.
not cheap.
Combining tested principles with leading-edge
For customers they attract and sellers that supply
technologies means better economics for property
them, these stores provide testimony to the authentic owners while complementing the District’s existing
neighborhood character here discussed in Edge City.
landscaping.
While their evidence of intellectualism is debatable,
Houston nonprofit Blueprint Houston recently
they clearly indicate heightened senses of both thrift
published a report detailing how municipal
and fashion, two attributes we’ll gladly claim for our
management organizations like Westchase District
residents and workforce. However, there are a few
enhance Houston. The report cites several of our
more examples of our District’s “maturity” in this
efforts as positive examples. The work of our district
issue of Westchase Today.
represents the next revolution in the development of
The property at 10550 Westpark Drive has been
edge cities both here and nationwide.
recycled to serve as the headquarters of Burton
In a town where new is the norm and old means
Construction. As they say in the resale business,
something from only 25 years ago, we recognize that
there is a lot of wear left in that building, and Burton sometimes it’s little amenities that connect us to our
Construction has moved in with high hopes for their
history and keep Westchase District on the edge of a
growing business.
new frontier.
Burton Construction Serves Up
Old Los Tios HQ as Modern Offices
(continued from pg. 1)
pleased with my decision,” he said. “The building shows our clients and architects what we can do. We’ve
received feedback from people saying they’d like to see more of this.”
One of those people is Andy Lear, president of Westchase Management and one of the original developers
Accounting Clerk
Westchase Today is published quarterly by Westchase
District, a municipal management district funded
by local property owners in a 4.2 square-mile area
centered on the Sam Houston Tollway between I-10
of Westchase. “This was the third building constructed in the area,” he said. “Brad’s team has done a classy
renovation, and I’m delighted to see this type of restoration taking place in Westchase.”
Stripped bare
Burton quickly added that the
transformation presented many challenges.
“We stripped the building down to
and US-59 on the west side of Houston, Texas.
tilt-up panels and steel, raised the slab and
We promote economic growth by enhancing
replaced the roof and plumbing, among
mobility, beautification, public safety, planning and
other things,” he said. “We filled in an old
development of the District.
truck dock, making an employee patio
Have District-related news for our readers? Please
with ceiling fans. I’m proud of our work. It
send it to info@westchasedistrict.com along with your
shows existing and potential clients
contact information. Approved items may be altered
we’re particular about the tiniest details.”
for clarity, length and style, and will appear as our
As for Los Tios? Burton’s still a fan.
editorial calendar permits.
“We still lunch at Los Tios,” he said.
“They’ve always served great Tex-Mex.”
Copyright © Westchase District. All Rights Reserved.
Let there be light: Glass panels provide ample sunshine and
broad views outdoors in one of Burton Construction’s new
conference rooms.
Mark Johnson Photography
Debra Kunkle
2
Westchase Newsletter 6-13.indd 2
7/1/13 10:28 AM
Cultivating a Growing Community
Landscaping specialists consider the big picture when planting in Westchase District
As soon as Granite Properties,
Inc. announced construction of
their Pre-Certified LEED-CS Gold
Granite Briarpark Green office
building – opening this summer
at 3151 Briarpark Drive – Mary
Butler-Summy knew it was time to start shopping.
Butler-Summy, property manager with Granite and
LEED Green Associate, is in charge of landscaping
the new building. LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design) is an internationally recognized
certification system that measures how buildings
implement factors such as energy savings, water
efficiency and improved indoor environmental quality.
Sure, it would be easy to simply plant a few ferns
and call it a day, but Granite has taken a more strategic
and thoughtful approach.
Robinson Company, a landscape architecture and urban
design firm retained by Westchase District. “Resources
such as irrigation water conservation and use of more
drought tolerant plants are important concerns.”
Finding the right foliage
Sometimes, however, procuring the right plant
material can be difficult.
“Because of the economic downturn a few years ago,
there’s been a gap in the growing chain,” said Brian
Peterson, project manager with Key-scape, the landscape
construction company handling the new Alta Woodlake
Square Apartments. “Plant breeders were growing less,
High-tech hydration
Granite Briarpark Green’s irrigation system will use
RainBird rotary nozzles that have less flow than other
nozzles which helps reduce runoff and erosion.
“We’ll equip sprinklers with rain sensors to override
timers when it’s raining,” Cox said. “Plus, we’ll install
ETwater SmartBox controllers that access the local
weather station to match the property’s water needs with
the current weather. Each zone will be programmed
with its specific plant material, sun/shade, slope and
type of soil to provide optimum water for each zone.
This controller will average 30-50% water savings over
conventional products.”
Variations on a theme
David Cunningham, Granite’s development and
construction director, describes Granite Briarpark
Green’s theme as “Texas Streams.”
“This motif is reflected throughout the project
with the curved building elevations, a serpentine cove
feature in the lobby ceiling, art installations, and even
the landscape/site development concept,” he said. “It
seems only fitting that a dry creek bed and native Texas
landscape materials are selected for the project.”
“With three water features, outdoor seating and
extensive planting of new trees and shrubs, we expect
that public landscaping at Granite Briarpark Green will
be enjoyed by our tenants and will be an exceptional
enhancement for all who work and live in Westchase
District,” Cunningham added.
Greenery creates community
Sustainable design
Granite Properties is not alone in thinking through
the concept of public landscaping. Throughout
Westchase District, landscape architects and contractors
continually consider responsible stewardship when
creating a unique and recognizable environment for the
area.
“We’re ever mindful of how to enhance principles of
sustainability,” said Keiji Asakura, principal at Asakura
so now finding trees large enough for our clients’ spaces
is our biggest challenge.”
Peterson said Key-scape imports many of its
Washingtonia fan palms from Florida. “It’s cheaper
and easier to bring them in, and they’ve already been
treated and certified to have no bugs or diseases,” he said.
Other plants used by Key-scape include wax
leaf ligustrum trees, Indian hawthorn shrubs, and
ornamental grasses such as gulf coast muhly and liriope.
Brad Cox, president of Lawn Management
Company, Inc. said Granite chose native trees, grasses
and groundcovers – such as American elms, deer grass
and trailing lantana that require low water consumption
in lieu of traditional turf grasses.
Pretty…and pretty tough: (From back) crape
myrtles; daylilies; Indian hawthorn; salvia;
angelonia; potato vine; pintas and marigolds
cap a median strip at Richmond Avenue and
Wilcrest Drive. These varieties are selected to
decorate Westchase District for their hardiness in
Houston heat, well as for their colorful beauty.
Behind the minutiae of botany and technology,
however, landscape design specialists working in
Westchase District are aware that the overall aim of their
efforts is to add value for property owners and improve
the quality of life for those who live and work here.
“Ultimately, the goal of the public landscape is
to create green places where people have positive
experiences and identify themselves with Westchase
District through the environment,” Asakura said. “Most
importantly, the landscape should reflect that Westchase
District is a people place, an enjoyable place to
congregate, to share ideas, to relax and enjoy the urban
nature of the area.”
3
Westchase Newsletter 6-13.indd 3
7/1/13 10:28 AM
Splashing around Wetchase, uh, Westchase District
Area swimming pools offer family fun and a break from Houston’s sweltering summers
That’s music to Berry’s ears. “I’m passionate about
the importance of water safety and I believe it’s never too
early or too late to learn to enjoy the water,” she said.
Holiday Inn - Houston Westchase
10609 Westpark Drive, 713-532-5400, ihg.com/
holidayinn/hotels/us/en/houston/houto/hoteldetail
Safe Swim Houston, 281-832-9685,
safeswimhouston.com
Summer’s here, and along with it,
Things
To Do
is Houston’s notorious heat and
humidity. So how do folks cool off
in Westchase District? Many head
for the swimming pool, and there
are a lot more around than you might think. Not
every pool is open to everyone, but there’s a surprising
variety available for residents and visitors alike.
Noah’s Ark
Arguably one of Westchase District’s most
recognizable attractions (at least to families with
young kids) is the Noah’s
Ark Pool, at 10570 Westpark
Drive.
A ministry of First
United Methodist Church’s
Quillian Center, the facility
is geared to families with
toddlers, preschoolers and
elementary-school aged
children.
An ark structure with animals is centered in a
shallow pool with three slides, a crawl-through, a
mushroom water drop, a rainboy slide, and animals
spraying water. Quillian Center also features a
full-sized swimming pool with dual slides and two
diving boards.
Quillian Center has entertained families since
1998. Director Tom Gaden conservatively estimates
at least 200,000 visitors have splashed around the ark
and he doesn’t see the crowds letting up anytime soon.
“As long as there are three-year-olds, there will
always be another generation learning about a classic
Bible story,” he said.
Noah’s Ark Pool, 10570 Westpark Drive,
713-781-9195, quilliancenter.org
Houston Marriott Westchase
Okay, flights are expensive and so is gas, but you
really need to get away from the heat. You might want
to consider a “staycation” at the Houston Marriott
Westchase.
The hotel just completed a $60,000 renovation of
its pool and pool area.
The 85,000-gallon indoor-outdoor pool is unique
to the area because you can swim between the indoor
and outdoor sections under a wall of glass. The
pool has brand new plaster, tiles and entry ladders,
including two new ADA lifts.
There are new decks both indoors and outdoors,
along with new pool furniture and umbrellas.
Best of all, Marriott is promoting a weekend family
package showcasing their pool that includes: a deluxe
guestroom; a welcome gift with a beach ball, Frisbee
and sunscreen; and a picnic lunch or dinner for two
adults and two children, delivered poolside.
Houston Marriott Westchase, 2900 Briarpark Drive,
713-978-7400, marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/
houwm-houston-marriott-westchase/
Important: make sure to use promotional code
P53 when making your reservation.
Mmmmm, Marriott: You and your family can
check out the $60,000 upgrades to the Houston
Marriott Westchase indoor-outdoor pool and deck
with the hotel’s “Splash Into Summer” weekend
specials.
Swim Lessons at Holiday Inn
Featuring one of the few indoor swimming pools
in Westchase District, the Holiday Inn Houston
Westchase uses saltwater chlorination to sanitize its
water. Many hotels and water parks have converted
to saltwater systems, which can be less irritating to
people sensitive to traditional chlorinating methods.
Sales director Dave Gibson seized a unique
opportunity to maximize the use of the Holiday
Inn pool when he was approached by Safe Swim
Houston’s Cortney Berry.
Berry’s company is a mobile swim school that
provides swim lessons to people of all ages and
skill levels. She pitched Gibson the idea of offering
weekday lessons through the hotel for people with no
swimming pool access.
“Most of our guests are working outside the hotel
during the daytime,” Gibson said. “It seemed like a
great way to make the best use of our pool.”
Gibson says Berry’s clients are not hotels guests,
but instead mainly local children. “When Cortney
first pitched me the idea, my first thought was that
it might be something great for my two young
daughters to try,” he said.
No pool? No Problem. Cortney Berry, founder
and co-owner of Safe Swim Houston, works on
Let’s get plastered: Property Manager Mark
Billig said Ventura Lofts replastered the floor of
their pool this spring, even though it was only
five-years-old and in good condition. “We found
a product that’s less slippery and lasts longer,”
he said. “Our investment increases our property
value and keeps the look of our pool up-to-date.”
Apartment communities
Almost every one of the 51 apartment
communities in Westchase District have swimming
pools on property.
Mark Billig, property manager at Ventura Lofts,
said that while a swimming pool is probably not the
only reason to choose a particular community, the
absence of a pool – or even the plainness of one – may
certainly factor into a potential resident’s decision.
“Many young professionals today don’t view
apartments as temporary homes where they only sleep
and shower,” he said. “They prefer renting to paying a
mortgage, but they want to live where there are social
features that allow them to meet and connect with
their neighbors.”
Billig said Ventura Lofts’ three pools – an oversized
hot tub, a lap pool overlooked by the fitness center
and a resort-style pool with floating chairs – tie the
complex together visually and create that communal
environment his residents seek.
“The palm trees, the verandas, the gas grills and
the music all add to the ambience of our village,” he
said. “Each feature adds another piece to the puzzle
and adds up to creating our unique community.”
Take your pick and
take the plunge
at the Holiday Inn Houston Westchase. Berry
So whether you choose to splash on a Biblical
boat, free-dive under a glass wall, take one-on-one
swimming lessons or simply float in a pool chair,
offers private lessons at homes, hotels and
Westchase District gives you plenty of choices for
neighborhood pools.
.
keeping your cool.
swimming skills with a young girl from Bellaire
4
Westchase Newsletter 6-13.indd 4
7/1/13 10:28 AM
Hidden Treasures Await at Upscale Resale Stores
Thrift shops are thriving in Westchase District – here are five worth checking out often
Once upon a time, the idea
of shopping at second-hand
stores could conjure unpleasant
images of out-of-date, moth-eaten
polyester pantsuits and worn-out,
funky-smelling footwear. No
more: whether you’re browsing for discounted
designer couture, or searching to support worthy
causes while bargain hunting, Westchase District has
you covered…in style.
coats, one-of-a-kind jewelry, crystal and handbags.
Since moving from Sugar Land to Westchase
District about a year ago, owner Michelle Puckett
has used her 8,000 square-foot showroom to attract
professional working women who constantly change
their wardrobes, but often don’t have time to shop.
Portions of all sales benefit Blooming Butterflies,
Puckett’s nonprofit offering services designed to
help battered women and senior citizens find jobs
and remain employed. Each client receives a set of
clothing to match the job they are currently working
or will be working.
Designer Exchange, 10248 Westheimer,
713-782-1780, dxresale.com
Ready for the Ball: Carole Barela, image
consultant at Designer Exchange, shows off a
YSA Makino gown which retails for more than
$3,000. It’s yours for a mere $998.
2nd Debut Furniture, 10968 Westheimer,
713-782-0300, 2nddebutfurniture.com
Second Blessing
In 2000, West Houston Assistance Ministries
opened the doors to its Second Blessing resale
store, which offers new and gently used clothing,
housewares, appliances, furniture and basic household
goods for those on a budget.
Although WHAM gladly accepts all donations,
criteria for store merchandise is strict. “If we wouldn’t
wear it on our bodies or feet, it doesn’t hit
the floor,” said store manager Willie Duckworth.
“Even if you’re less than fortunate, you should be
able to have some nice things,” he added.
WHAM is especially proud of it’s new
“Designer Row” section which features selected
designer brand items. “Our inventory turns over
completely about every month, so frequent visits often
pay off,” said Duckworth.
WHAM also distributes clothing vouchers to
individuals who qualify.
Second Blessing Store, 3100 Rogerdale,
713-780-2727, whamministries.org
These boots were made for shoppin’: Mary Kay
From Our Home to Yours
Edwards displays a L.A.M.B. women’s Belgrave
Growing up in Galveston as one of seven siblings,
Elizabeth Monroe was deeply moved by the generosity
of neighbors who donated clothes and toys to her
family.
Having established financial security as an adult,
Monroe decided to open a resale shop of her own.
Featuring artwork, clothing, furniture, household
goods and toys, From Our Home to Yours is billed as
“Not Your Average Resale Shop,” and its inventory is
unique in Westchase District.
Monroe said only about one percent of her
merchandise comes from donations; the rest she
purchases by the pallet from large retailers at deep
discounts. “I’m a shopaholic,” she said. “We have
storage units all over Houston. The fact is, I give away
more than I sell.”
Monroe has coordinated donation drives for
victims of natural disasters as well as giving clothes,
toys and school items to families referred to her by
word-of mouth.
“Many people have helped me along my way,” she
said. “My passion is to do the same for others.”
From Our Home to Yours, 11380 Westheimer,
281-496-0662, fromourhometoyourshouston.com
boot that retails for about $725; at Baubles &
Beads it sells for $270.
Baubles & Beads
Tucked behind the Walgreens at Westheimer and
Tanglewilde, Baubles & Beads might seem at a visual
disadvantage for attracting customers. But word of
mouth has kept Mary Kay Edwards’ consignment
boutique prospering since 1969.
“I like to call us the Nieman Marcus of resale
stores,” Edwards quipped. “We serve celebrities,
socialites, philanthropists and high powered
executives, putting entire ensembles together giving
them a one-stop shopping experience.”
Edwards said while most clothing is organized by
color, size and type, she has the most success with her
eye-catching displays that allow her customers to see a
complete outfit with matching pieces and accessories.
“You can’t accurately match colors unless you buy an
outfit all at once,” she said.
The majority of her inventory is sold on
consignment, with about two-thirds of items rejected
for quality standards. “I won’t sell anything with
stains, broken zippers or buttons and the styles can’t
be older than two years,” Edwards said.
Most items sell for about one-third to one-quarter
of their original retail price. Pricing is determined
through online research and lots of visits to high-end
retailers. “I can’t price what I haven’t seen,” Edwards
says.
Baubles & Beads, 9600 Westheimer, 713-785-2646
2nd Debut Furniture Resale
Charles Gray has offered pickup and delivery
service, financing and layaway at 2nd Debut Furniture
since 1978. Gray and store manager Jerry Jones
receive new consignment furniture daily, which they
inspect thoroughly.
“We judge each piece on its individual merits,”
Gray said. “Our years of market experience allow us
to judge which mid- to high-end pieces are in good
condition and structurally sound.”
Repeat visits are the key to finding the perfect
piece for your space. Gray said he has weekly regulars,
many who are interior designers, who routinely stop
in to see what’s new, as well as what’s moved on.
“Twice today, I’ve had people say, ‘Oh, I should have
bought that piece when I had the chance last time I
was here!’” he said.
The Magnanimous Monroes: (From left: Jonah,
Todd, Elizabeth, Christian and Lauren)
Charles Gray of 2nd Debut Furniture Resale sits
Designer Exchange
at a Cantoni glass table with seating for eight.
Designer Exchange is another high-end
consignment clothing and household furnishings store
specializing in evening gowns, cocktail dresses, fur
The set retails for about $7,000; it’s available at
2nd Debut for $2,499 (but not likely for long).
5
Westchase Newsletter 6-13.indd 5
7/1/13 10:28 AM
A Cannoli to Go with Your Falafel Sandwich, Sir?
Eatwell Bakery Café offers tastes from Mediterranean coastal countries (and an Italian bakery, too!)
Seven days a week, at the corner in 1974, located on Fannin Street. “We were the first
of Westheimer Road and Wilcrest
bakery to introduce pita bread to Houston,” he said
Food &
Drive, hungry customers looking
proudly.
Drink
for international cuisine don’t have
In 1976, he opened Sammy’s Lebanese Restaurant
to settle for dishes from a single
on Richmond Avenue’s “Restaurant Row.” Kimberly
country.
Young, author of Adventure Guide to Texas, wrote,
At Eatwell Bakery Café, they can choose from the
“Another fine example of Houston’s cultural diversity,
best recipes selected from the coastal Mediterranean
Sammy’s serves up some of the best Middle Eastern
nations of Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Spain and
food in the state.”
Turkey.
He sold Sammy’s in 1990 (which closed in 2004),
A quick glance at the menu board reveals a
leaving the restaurant business for 22 years to work
cultural diversity of options, as well as a peek into the
in the export industry. Kalek and Ruaida, his wife –
proprietor’s own favorite tastes:
residents just outside of Westchase District for
• 12 varieties of cookies
27 years – would occasionally cook and entertain at
• Italian cream cakes and cake balls
large events for family and friends.
• Cannoli and calzone
“People always said we
• Sweet or savory eggless rolls
should write a cookbook or
• Freshly baked breads
go back into the restaurant
• Baked falafel and frittatas
business,” he said. “My
• Lasagna, meat and vegetarian
wife always wanted to
• Sandwiches, paninis, soups
open a bakery like she
and salads
remembered from living in
• Homemade plain yogurt
Chevy Chase, Md.
• Organic coffees, herbal teas,
I had the concept of
One of the specialties at Eatwell
fresh fruit smoothies and juices
natural, healthy meals
Bakery Café: an avocado and
• Authentic Lebanese tabbouleh
made ready-to-go. We
provolone pita pocket sandwich
• Homemade hummus bi Tahini
waited patiently for just
the right opportunity.”
“I like to think I’ve curated a healthy, world-class
menu,” said owner Ziad Kalek. “Why limit my menu
to just one geographic area when I can combine the
best from many?”
Soufar, Sammy’s & Scratch Recipes
Kalek has never been one to settle for just one
geographic area. He moved from Soufar, a resort
town in Lebanon, in 1970 to attend the University of
Houston, where he earned his business degree. While
in college, he founded The Middle Eastern Bakery
amazing. I have been looking for a legitimate Italian
bakery for a while now, and this place takes the cake!
I haven’t had a real cannoli like this since I lived in
Brooklyn. If you’re looking for Italian baked goods,
look no further.”
Quick meals – but not so fast
While Kalek provides corporate catering services
for breakfast, lunch and dinner – as well as call-in/
carry-out ready-made meals – he’s designed his dining
area and patio for those who want to relax and relish
a meal.
“I am proud to offer no TV or Wi-Fi,” he said,
smiling. “I want to have a relaxing ambiance with few
distractions that encourages in-person conversations
among friends while savoring a dessert or a sandwich.”
When asked about his favorite part of owning a
café, Kalek didn’t hesitate. “I get great satisfaction
feeding people from the heart something delicious
and healthy that won’t hurt them,” he said. “I’ll never
settle for anything less.”
Eatwell Bakery Café, 11150 Westheimer,
713-360-6600, eatwellbakerycafe.com
Back in business
Last fall, that opportunity materialized when Kalek
moved in to the corner storefront location, where he
made a pledge to himself – and to his customers.
“No lard, no margarine, no corn syrup,” Kalek
said. “I prepare my food from scratch with only the
freshest local and natural ingredients available to me.”
His recipes are the real deal as well, according
to one Urban Spoon online reviewer. “This place is
Decisions, Decisions: Don’t worry, you can’t go
wrong with anything from Ziad Kalek’s bakery.
Corporate Challenge Benefits Summer Camps
Costello, Inc. sweeps four out of five events, wins best all-around team for third year straight
Thanks to all of the participants
from the 2013 Corporate Challenge
who attended the Awards and
Events
Recognition Luncheon at the
Hilton Houston Westchase.
Congratulations to Costello,
Inc., whose Costello Style team swept four out of
five events to win First Place All Around Team and
the coveted Travelling Trophy.
Top Honors:
ALL AROUND TEAM
First Place: Costello, Inc./Costello Style
Second Place: Costello, Inc./Winning, Duh?
Third Place: Revere Middle School
SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD
Houston Community College
TEAM SPIRIT AWARD
Men’s Wearhouse
$13,000 to Quillian Center
All proceeds from the event went to the Westchase
District Community Fund, the 501(c)(3) tax exempt
organization that’s the charitable arm of Westchase
District, which disburses funds to charitable causes.
Tom Gaden, director for the Quillian Center,
accepted a check for $13,027 this year. Since 1998,
Westchase District’s Corporate Challenge has raised
more than $178,000 for scholarships for boys and
girls ages 5 to 14 to attend the Quillian Center’s
accredited summer day camps.
Thanks to this year’s sponsors
Check It Out: (From left: Dave Gilkeson, Westchase
District vice president; Steve Peters, senior vice
president of Amegy Bank, title sponsor for this year’s
challenge; Quillian Center director Tom Gaden; and
Richard Wall and Shannon Stricker, board members of
the Westchase District Community Fund)
Title Sponsor: Amegy Bank
Major Sponsors: The Aberdeen Apartments;
Aker Solutions; American PromoPrint; Camden
Property Trust; Concentra Urgent Care; First
Methodist Houston Westchase; Frost Bank; Grace
Presbyterian Church; Granite Properties; Haynes
Whaley Associates; Hilton Houston Westchase;
Houston West Chamber of Commerce; Kona
Ice; Outback Steakhouse; Phonoscope Lightwave;
Quillian Center; Ragin Cajun; Texas Dow
Employees Credit Union; West Houston Christian
Center; and Westchase Forest Apartments.
For complete results and lots of photos, go to
westchasedistrict.com/corporatechallenge.htm.
6
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7/1/13 10:28 AM
A Singer, a Songwriter and a Patrol Officer
Although Officer Kevin Ferguson has a twin brother, he’s still one of a kind
M
ost citizens will notice a police patrol
Trading paint for the police
car as an officer cruises around a
After five years as a manager with Sherwin
Williams, Ferguson began talking with a police officer
who influenced him to explore law enforcement. “I
don’t just want a job, I want a career, something that
allows me to make a difference in peoples’ lives,” he
said.
After graduating from the Houston Police Academy
in 2008, Ferguson was assigned to Westside Division
as a patrol officer. It was about a year ago that he
learned of a spot with the Westchase District Patrol.
“I was already working Westchase District and I
neighborhood. Few expect to see a
two-man team of policemen riding bicycles. Officer
Kevin Ferguson likes it that way.
“We’re not exactly invisible, but we have a way of
sneaking up on people,” he said. “The bike allows
me to check out places I wouldn’t normally reach in a
patrol car.”
Less of a shrinking violet,
More like a venus flytrap
While Ferguson enjoys his relative anonymity while
on the job, he’s never been one to shy away from
the spotlight. He grew up in Texas City, with
three brothers in a family that encouraged music
and the arts. He sang in the choir at Hunter’s
Chapel CME Church, played the tuba in high
school band and he and Keith, his twin brother,
shared the role of Audrey II, the killer Venus
flytrap, in their school theater’s production of
Little Shop of Horrors.
The twins both attended Prairie View A&M
University, earning the same dual degrees in
music and marketing. “I’ve always had a great
love for music and I enjoy composing songs,” he
said. “I’m proficient on piano and I’m teaching
myself how to play guitar, which so far has been a
challenge to master.”
Pedal Power: Westchase District Patrol Officer Kevin
Ferguson takes it to the streets
was already bike certified through the department,
so it seemed like a good change-up from my regular
patrolling,” he said.
Those daily change-ups are some of the favorite
parts of Ferguson’s duties. “I love that there’s always
something different every day,” he said. “Whether
I’m after a suspect on a foot chase or even saving
someone’s life, there’s a freedom I feel knowing
anything can happen.”
Howdy, partner
The bike patrols always canvas the District in teams
of two, ensuring the officers’ safety as they ensure the
safety of others. Ferguson regularly pairs up with Sgt.
Herman Estrella. “We get our exercise when we’re
on the bikes,” Ferguson said. “It’s great for our
physical fitness.”
Ferguson said one of the greatest challenges
about his job is knowing that no matter how hard
he tries, not everyone will be happy to see him.
“Someone will always be upset with how we go
about our duties,” he said. “In this job, you can’t
wear your emotions on your sleeve.”
At least when he needs to vent about his
day, he can turn to someone who uniquely
understands his work: Ferguson’s twin, Keith,
serves on the Tomball Police Department.
“We’re always stayed really close and have
followed similar paths in life,” he said. “Now
I just need to talk him into working a bike
patrol.”
Public Safety Alliance hosts Crime Stoppers
New Crime Stoppers executive director outlines vision; AmREIT and officers recognized
The new executive director
of Crime Stoppers of Houston
outlined her vision for the crime
prevention organization at the
recent quarterly Public Safety
Alliance meeting sponsored by
Westchase District’s public safety program.
Rania Mankarious succeeded Katherine Cabaniss
in March, after Cabaniss was appointed by Governor
Perry to preside over the 248th District Court.
Mankarious, who has a master’s degree in
marriage and family planning as well as a Doctorate
in Jurisprudence, had previously served as Crime
Stoppers’ marketing director.
“As a mother of three, I am passionate about
protecting children and I’m motivated to serve
the citizens of Harris County, by enforcing Crime
Stoppers’ mission to solve and prevent crime in the
greater Houston area,” she said.
Mankarious commended Westchase District
for its proactive partnerships with the Houston
Police Department as well as with hotels, residential
communities and retailers.
One of the executive director’s goals is to increase
fundraising efforts. Crime Stoppers of Houston
operates a telephone tip line – 713-222-TIPS – and
provides callers rewards of up to $5,000 for accurate
crime tips.
“I’d like to think callers would contact us out of a
sense of civic duty,” Mankarious said, “but the reality
is that it’s the cash that incentivizes them. The more
rewards we can offer means more information that can
help law enforcement.”
AmREIT receives public safety award
AmREIT, an equity real estate investment trust
headquarted in Houston, accepted the District’s
Public Safety Partner Award.
AmREIT redeveloped and manages the Woodlake
Square Shopping Center, located on Westheimer Road
between Gessner Road and Tanglewilde.
Westchase District Public Safety Director Mark
Public Safety Partners: (From left: Craig Vance,
AmREIT; Rania Mankarious, Crime Stoppers;
and Mark Hubenak, Westchase District)
Hubenak commended AmREIT for maintaining a
low call rate to police despite enormous retail traffic.
“Hundreds of customers move through the center
each day,” he said. “In demonstrating their
commitment to public safety, they help free up our
patrols to focus on other areas in the District.”
“We call ourselves ‘The Irreplaceable Corner
Company,’” said Craig Vance, AmREIT senior
property manager. “Woodlake Square is simply one of
the best corners in one of the best markets.”
Public safety officers of the month
Hubenak also caught up with presenting Officer of
the Month award plaques to Westchase Patrol officers
honored during the past eight months.
August 2012:
Sgt. Paul George
September 2012: Sgt. Curtis Hampton
October 2012: Officer Jonathan Jorsch
November 2012: Officer Jennifer Simpson
December 2012: Officer Richard Lowe
January 2013: Sgt. Honorio Sanchez
February 2013: Sgt. Bob Opperman
March 2013:
Sgt. Justin Kennedy
“Each of these patrol members has made
significant contributions in apprehending suspects
and representing our commitment to public safety,”
Hubenak said. “All of them have earned our respect
and deserve recognition.”
7
Westchase Newsletter 6-13.indd 7
7/1/13 10:28 AM
Neighborhood News
T
hanks to Houstonian Bill Merrill, for recreating
Westchase District’s logo using electronic waste,
including computer circuit boards and keyboard keys,
on a discarded hollow core door. The frame and trim are
made from discarded wooden window blinds.
The Westchase District piece took Merrill about 80
The team, along with eight other HISD schools, traveled
to East Lansing, Mich., for the 34th annual World Finals
May 22-25.
Teamwork and creativity helped the Walnut Bend team
earn third-place honors in the “Tumble-wood” category, in
which students were required to build a structure made of
hours to create and diverted more than 50 pounds of
only balsa wood and glue that will balance and support as
material from landfills.
much weight as possible. Walnut Bend’s structure held an
Merrill specializes in art fabricated from reclaimed
computer
impressive 865 pounds.
“Michele Dahlquist and her amazing students
products.
demonstrate that a little creativity and a lot of hard work can
He said he’s
produce extraordinary results,” said Walnut Bend Principal
determined
Susan Shenker. “They serve as a beacon of what learning, at
“not to turn
its best, can be for all children.”
one pile of
W
junk into
elcome to Dunkin’ Donuts, located at 10705
Westheimer (next door to Brookstreet BBQ), which
another pile
is now open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
of junk and
Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts has more than 10,000
call it art.”
restaurants in 32 countries worldwide. Currently, there are
“I am
five Dunkin’ Donuts franchises in Greater Houston. The
fascinated
company plans to open 70 stores in the area over the next
with the
eight years.
possibilities
of using
waste products to create symbols, logos and meaningful
displays to demonstrate individual, corporate, or
municipal commitment to recycling,” Merrill said.
C
ongratulations to the students from Walnut Bend
Elementary School: they were honored at the
Odyssey of the Mind World Finals for their outstanding
performance and problem-solving skills.
Randalls & The Rose: (From left: Jerry Martin;
Sasha Klein; Dominique Sachse; Dorothy Weston
Gibbons; Leslie Nelson; Irma Klink; and Paul
McTavish)
K
udos to Randalls on presenting a check for more
than $228,000 to The Rose, a Houston nonprofit
specializing in mobile mammography services.
Randalls’ customers and associates raised the money
during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The mobile unit,
which provides digital mammography screenings to women
throughout Southeast Texas, including Houston and 24
surrounding counties, visits the Randalls corporate offices
n Westchase District each Spring.
K
udos to Phillips 66, which recently partnered with
Keep Houston Beautiful to plant more than 20 trees
along the Harris County Flood Control District public
drainage esplanade next to Paul Revere Middle School.
Phillips 66 volunteers planted live oak and bald cypress
trees provided by Keep Houston Beautiful as part of its
Adopt-A-Ditch program.
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8
Westchase Newsletter 6-13.indd 8
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