WHCA May General Meeting Tuesday, May 8th by Lori Bigler

The May General Meeting of the Woodland Heights Civic Association will take place Tuesday, May 8th at 7pm in the cafeteria at Hogg Middle School, 1100 Merrill. 

This month the agenda includes:

All About Learn Local

..whose mission is "to establish a bridge for our children between our successful Heights neighborhood elementary schools and Hogg Middle School, enabling progression within our strong, unique community."

Presented by Angela Sugarek, Principal of Hogg Middle School


Everything you ever wanted to know about NextDoor

Presented by Mark Sternfels, one of two neighborhood leads for Woodland Heights.

 


Firefly Field Installation

Project status presented by the Friends of Woodland Park.

...and all the usual updates from the WHCA board and committees.

The general meetings are your opportunity to find out what's going on and have your voice heard as well. We hope to see you there!

NTMP Public Meeting Summary by Lori Bigler

On Tuesday April 27th, the community participated in a public meeting for the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program, hosted by the City of Houston Public Works department. The meeting focused on the traffic study of speed cushions that have been installed in Woodland Heights since June of last year.

A crowd of engaged residents gathered in the library of Travis Elementary to ask questions and comment on the plan. Notables in attendance included CM Karla CisnerosCM Michael Kubosh and Khang Nguyen, PWE Assistant Director, Traffic Management Branch.

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Gary Drabek, NTMP Program Manager, briefed the gathered crowd on the results of their speed data collection, offering an overview of the before-and-after traffic study count data. That was followed by an animated question and answer session.

Drabek explained that residents who would like deeper or more complete traffic study data than what they presented in the meeting can obtain complete data using the city's GIS Interactive Traffic Counts Map. All data collected by Public Works is fully available to the public. Mr Dabek offered to distribute a cheat sheet on using that system to anyone who is so inclined.

Currently, Public Works is collecting comments regarding the installation. All comments must be submitted to Public Works by May 14th. 

Mr Dabek placed particular emphasis on the importance of the comments in helping the city evaluate the installation and plot a path forward. However, he also reminded the community that the comments are not votes. Public Works will use the comments to make a recommendation to the city council, but will not determine their recommendation based on numbers of comments for or against.

The city has already mailed every household in the neighborhood a package that includes a comment form. They seek the opinion of each household using a simple poll:

  • Support the devices
  • Support with modifications
  • Do NOT support the devices

They also seek comment about the installation itself. That could include suggestions for where traffic cushions might be added or removed, to further refine the approach. Comments can be submitted by post mail or online at the following web page.

https://services.publicworks.houstontx.gov/ntmp-feedback.

Only one comment per household is allowed. Comments must be submitted by May 14th. Questions about the program and requests for the GIS cheat sheet can be directed to ntmp@houstontx.gov.

For love of screech owls: 25 years of hosting owl families by Lori Bigler

My husband (Old John) and I have been hosts to screech owl families for about 25 years. The accommodation is a nesting box with a hole so the birds can have a room with a view.

Screech Owlet

Screech Owlet

We got worried about the family in residency in the box a few days ago. The last time we had seen the mother owl in the hole was on Saturday, April 21st. When we didn’t see her Sunday or Monday, we figured the babies had fledged (not a good night for it because there was a major storm at about 2 am).  So, on Friday, April 20, after checking the hole several times a day, Old John went out to take down the owl house (we do NOT want to host squirrels). The next thing I knew he was telling me we had a problem.

He had discovered he couldn’t open the top of the nesting box. As he worked with it, he felt feathers. He figured one of the owls had died in the box so he carried the box to the back yard so he could bury any remains. Using pliers, he finally got the top open only to have a tiny owlet scurry out to try to hide itself in the mulch under an azalea. Old John was horrified.

I immediately called the Texas Wildlife Coalition, which has a Houston branch whose responsibility is to rehabilitate wild mammals, amphibians, and birds. After a conference with the person who answered the phone and then conferred with the bird specialist, it was decided to put the house back up in the tree and monitor it to see if the parent(s) appeared. If not, we’d have to take the baby to the wildlife people.

So, Old John went back out where he discovered that the owlet had tried to get back into the nesting box but had gotten stuck. Apparently, owls do not know how to back up. So, very, very carefully, he moved the little fellow backward into the box. The owlet then played dead. With the house cover back on, Old John gently raised the nesting box back into position in the tree.

We began our vigil at 6:40 pm. We were afraid we might miss a parent, especially because I suspect they observed the entire nesting box debacle. Staring at a hole in a box in a tree is tiring. I had to fight to stay awake. By 8 pm, it was dusk and I could no longer even see the hole. Old John thought he saw the baby in the hole so I sent him for the binoculars. I then sat for 20 minutes with the binoculars staring at the hole. At 8:20, we saw the flash of a wing (the underside is whitish) and then a clear view of a parent flying into the box. Voila! So the baby hadn’t been abandoned. We believe the parents will continue to feed it until it is big enough to fledge.

Epilogue: We are certain this is the second baby. Screech owls usually lay a second egg from several days to several weeks after the first (probably to ensure the survival of at least one owlet).

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

 Editor’s note: This story has been submitted by Rosie Walker, with permission of her anonymous friend who is devoted to assisting wildlife survival in our urban environment.

The WHCA invites you to join or renew your subscription to the 2018-19 Constable Patrol Program by Lori Bigler

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Neighbors,

We live in one of the best neighborhoods in Houston. While we all enjoy the many benefits of the Woodland Heights, there are unfortunately a few downsides. Clean neighborhoods filled with trusting people that are near major highway systems and large city centers often attract criminals and individuals that look to take advantage of the situation.

Click on image to see larger version.

In no way is our neighborhood comparable to a crime-ridden New York or Chicago gangland, but there are individuals that seek to upset our way of life. Consider this recent post from the Crime & Safety section of NextDoor (pictured right.) In reference to an attempted break-in at their home, the homeowner states very plainly;

“...for those that are on the fence regarding the Constable program, Deputy Vest was here almost immediately after being alerted.”

The Constable Patrol Program helps keep our community safe. Through the efforts of two dedicated Constables patrolling our neighborhood, we’re able to keep crime to a minimum, and when needed, have a quick reaction force on stand-by. Not to mention the added value of vacation checks while you’re away, home security checks, rapid response to HPD dispatch requests and timely assistance when needed.

However, it is our responsibility as homeowners and members of this great community to fund this program. Since 2011, Woodland Heights Civic Association has administered a Constable Patrol Program, serviced by Harris County Precinct One. Our Constable Patrol Program is a supplemental police force, currently two deputies, hired to patrol our neighborhood for two 40-hour shifts per week.

In 2017, only 400 of approximately 2000 homes in the Woodland Heights supported this effort to keep our neighborhood safe. While some have renewed their subscriptions, going forward into 2018 we are at risk of losing all or part of the Constable Patrol Program.

Will you join this effort to ensure we keep the Constable Patrol Program? if your prefer to pay by check you can signup by mail using the form on the back of the Constable Patrol flier (downloadable here) or online at http://www.woodland-heights.org.

Should you have questions feel free to reach out to Cody McGregor, WHCA VP of
Security at: security@woodland-heights.org

Yard-of-The-Month: 802 Woodland Street by Lori Bigler

802 Woodland Street, home of Janet and Harry Tallichet, is absolutely popping in our spring sunshine and showers! Janet is a "semi-retired" landscaper. Harry is a home builder and did the add-on to the original home in 2009. Moving from Memorial, Janet welcomed the chance to just play with a smaller garden in a neighborhood that didn't dictate plant material and minimum sod areas or maximum cutting heights. Her garden is for the birds and the bees and one dog, one cat. Always with natural habitat in mind, the garden has evolved through the years and Janet enjoys (in a mad scientist sort of way) experiments with wild flowers from Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg, TX. She hopes to encourage the love of nature and beauty to all residents. 

Also...

Nods to two also very lovely and playful yards nominated by neighbors: 711 Euclid and 506 Euclid. If you see a yard that you would like to nominate, please email me at beautification@woodland-heights.org. Hope to meet more neighbors out for walks enjoying our community - there is so much to enjoy here, especially this time of year.

- Stephanie Riceman, Beautification

 

The WHCA Block Captain Program Needs Volunteers by Lori Bigler

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It's been said that golf is "a good walk ruined." Wouldn't it be nice to turn that on it's head? Do some good by the simple act of taking a walk around our wonderful Woodland Heights Here's your chance! The WHCA Block Captain program is seeking volunteers to assist in the distribution of printed materials throughout the neighborhood. 

While typically this involves our printed newsletters, this week we're seeking help to distribute a one-page flyer about the Constable Patrol program. We expect this one-page document to be printed by Friday and likely available for pick-up and distribution over the weekend. Volunteers will be notified via email when the flyer is available for pick-up. If you are able to help distribute to the neighborhood, please sign up for your preferred blocks at the link below.

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0c4ea4af22a5ff2-constable

If you have any questions, or would like to be included on the Block Captains email list for future distribution efforts, please contact Andrea at blockcaptains@woodland-heights.org

 

Fins, Feathers & Fur: Wild life In WH by Lori Bigler

Animals are everywhere in Woodland Heights! Some are local wildlife, while others are pets of various sorts. Each has a story. Did you know that we have a hoard of colorful wild Parakeets that live hereabouts?

Even as Hurricane Harvey was battering Houston the hummingbirds found our feeder. Shot on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 using a Canon 70D.

I'd like to start a regular newsletter item called "Fins, Feathers & Fur" that tells a brief tale of one critter each month. It could be that time you encountered a great hawk in Stude Park, the fish you caught in the bayou, or the charming way your dog greets all the neighbors while out walking. Could be fact or fictional. Needs a photo. If you're felling ambitious...video!

If you have anything to submit for consideration please send it to communications@woodland-heights.org.

2018 Home Tour Wrap-Up by Lori Bigler

2018 WH Home Tour Delivers Roaring Success!

Woodland Heights put its best foot forward, welcoming hundreds into our neighborhood to tour eight historic homes in late March. With thanks to the hard work of many volunteers, support from sponsors, the generosity of civic-minded homeowners and interest from lots of tourgoers, the tour set a fundraising record.

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The weekend kicked off with a sneak peek of the eight homes on tour followed by the preview party at Janeen Cook’s historic Rolle House. Close to 100 partygoers mixed and mingled in their “construction chic” garb and some dancing broke out to the toe-tapping Latin jazz of Zenteno Spirit. The delicious spread featured a wide range of nibbles, from hors d’oeuvres through desserts donated by local restaurants with beer, wine and non-alcoholic libations on tap.

A gallery of pictures from the preview party is available at the WHCA web site.

Janeen led an impromptu tour of her 1910 William Wilson home that has remained in her family since its construction. A raffle with exciting prize packages raised another $1,200-plus dollars and one lucky neighbor took home the wine-and-food pairing for eight door prize donated by Kagan Cellars. The “Bob the Builder” mural painted by Hogg Middle School art students and construction props leant by neighbors Jane and Steve Ista set the theme. See the sponsor list for all who contributed to another fun preview party, with thanks to Peggy Sparks, Pat Schaper and Kim Lytle for leading the preview charge.

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The next two days saw more than 800 visitors touring some or all of the eight featured homes, ranging from a 1,200-square-foot charmer now housing a family of five to the 6,600-square-foot beauty built by Woodland Heights’ founder William Wilson for his family. Some 200 docents and cashiers made the visitors feel welcome and shared the homes’ fascinating histories. Three of the homes were recently saved from the wrecking ball by homeowners with a love of the past and passion for restoration. Others had gone through earlier renovations, revisions and expansions to provide modern comforts while respecting their storied past.

The home tour chairs would like to express their sincere gratitude to all who came together to make the event such a success. The neighborhood’s largest fundraiser, proceeds will help keep our community connected and beautiful – truly “our hometown near downtown.”

Homes for the 2020 tour will be selected summer 2019 so if you would like yours to be considered, please email limoss@comcast.net.

Janeen Cook offers a calendar containing photos of her family's historic Rolle House. The house has been in the family since it was built.

Janeen Cook offers a calendar containing photos of her family's historic Rolle House. The house has been in the family since it was built.

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Joey and Kelly Sanchez of the Blue Tile Project generously donated the homeowner thank-you gifts this tour. Each received the house's street spelled out in the blue tiles. Installed as markers for Houston's first paved streets in the 1920s -- including throughout Woodland Heights -- many examples of this early "street art" still remain. More information on the project that salutes our history and to order your own sign, visit BlueTileProject.com.

Pam & Greg Roach of 3304 Beauchamp with their new sign courtesy of the Blue Tiles Project.

Pam & Greg Roach of 3304 Beauchamp with their new sign courtesy of the Blue Tiles Project.

Thanks to our 2018 Home Tour Sponsors! by Lori Bigler

Our wonderful neighborhood businesses help make the tour possible. Please reward these firms with your business and let them know you appreciate their support!

Banner
Morningside Architects

Door Hanger
Lucas Craftsmanship, Inc.

Homes
Sara Black Team, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Anderson Properties
Kay Harden, Coldwell Banker United, Realtors
Grogan Building Supply Co. and JELD-WEN Windows & Doors (2 homes)
Lucas Craftsmanship, Inc.
Yvonne Meyer, Karen Stowers, Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty, and Renovative Thinking
Melissa Kubala, Boulevard Realty, and The Modern Bungalow Co.
Mary Wassef, Circa Real Estate LLC & FW Heritage, LLC

Tickets
Boulevard Realty

Ticket Booth
Elizabeth Smith, The Mortgage Group

Brochure
Greenwood King Properties, Brigette Larson & Caroline Schlemmer
Bodensteiner Service Inc.
Four Square Design Studio
Hirsch & Westheimer PC
Master Car Care & Collison
Nick’s Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc.
Linda Hulsey & Steve Ciapi, Coldwell Banker United, Realtors

Floral
Athas Florist
Darlene’s Flower and Gift Shop
Gaye Jackson’s Flowers in the Heights
J.A. Polito III and Scherry Lindley
Kroger on Studemont
Nuvo Builders
Picked Flower Co.

Friends of Woodland Heights
Jane & Steve Ista
Nuvo Builders

In-Kind
BlueTileProject.com
Crowley Signs & Graphics
LP Printing
Pennebaker

‘Bob the Builder’ Preview Party
Special thanks to Janeen Cook

General Contractors
Mary & Nelson Curl
Greystar
Montalbano Lumber

Subcontractors
The Contemporary Craftsmen
Gina Lesch
McIntyre + Robinowitz Architects PLLC
Semmler Pollard Properties

Vendors
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, Deborah Markey
Ista Construction
Hogg Middle School, Kati Ozanic’s class

Suppliers
Alexander Valley, Arnold Gilberg
Alice Blue
Andy's Home Café
B B's
Becker Vineyards
Bellagreen
Roland Chavez
DaCapo’s Pastry Café
Fusion Taco
Ginger & Fork
Good Dog
Hughie's Heights
Kroger on Studemont
Liberty Kitchen & Oyster Bar
Los Pinos Wines
Mister French’s Gourmet Bakers
Pinkerton’s BBQ
Red Dive Dessert
Sonoma Wine Bar & Restaurant, Heights
Peggy Sparks, Realtor, Semmler Pollard Properties
Sprouts Farmers Market
Town in City Brewing

Door Prize
Emily Trout & Mark Ellenberger, Kagan Cellars

Raffle
Berryhill Baja Grill
Bojangles Music School
Buchanan's Native Plants
CAMBRIA
C&D Hardware
Citizen Pilates
Eclectic Home
Howard Safe & Lock
Gridiron Cookers
Joshua's Native Plants & Garden
Lin Chong
Mila Nelson, Satori Salon
Natran, LLC
Polish Parker and Roe
Richard Hall
Sharon Greif
Tacos a Go-Go

WH Residents Get Houston BCycle Discount! by Lori Bigler

Have you ever wondered about the red bikes at the corner of Woodland Park? Houston BCycle is offering Woodland Heights residents a membership and access the bikes for just $6.00 a month!

Red bikes in a row_Courtesy of Houston Bike Share.jpg

While the Woodland Park station connects you directly to the nearby Buffalo Bayou trails, your membership also allows you to access all other Houston BCycle stations across Houston! As a member, you will be able take unlimited 60-minute rides throughout Houston's entire 56-station network (check out their full station map here).

With each BCycle trip, you contribute to building a healthy, sustainable, eco-friendly transit and recreational option for our city. We encourage you to sign up and participate in this transformation!

To activate your discounted Houston BCycle membership, click here, and use these promotional codes:

  • $6.00 Monthly Membership code: FWPNWD9
  • $66.00 Annual Membership code: FWPFG9S

Lastly, Houston BCycle recommends downloading the BCycle app if you end up purchasing a membership. The app will show you an updated map of all the stations and allow you to check out bikes with ease.

Step Forward to Cure TSC Houston Walk: April 14 in Stude Park by Lori Bigler

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Everyone is invited to be a part of the “Step Forward to Cure TSC Houston Walk” on April 18, 2018,  in Stude Park. Registration starts at 8:30 AM, next to the Stude Community Center. The walk will begin at 9:30 AM. Stude Park Community Center is located at 1031 Stude Street.

The walk brings together individuals and families impacted by a rare genetic disorder called tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), and people who join the fight against the devastating condition. TSC is the leading genetic cause of epilepsy and autism.

For more information about the walk, to form a team or to register as an individual participant, email Rachael Jackson at Rachyjack@gmail.com.

2018 Home tour delivers roaring success! by Lori Bigler

Woodland Heights put its best foot forward, welcoming hundreds into our neighborhood to tour eight historic homes in late March. With thanks to the hard work of many volunteers, support from sponsors, the generosity of civic-minded homeowners and interest from lots of tourgoers, the tour set a fundraising record.

Home Tour Preview Party Gallery

The weekend kicked off with a sneak peek of the eight homes on tour followed by the preview party at Janeen Cook’s historic Rolle House. Close to 100 partygoers mixed and mingled in their “construction chic” garb and some dancing broke out to the toe-tapping Latin jazz of Zenteno Spirit. The delicious spread featured a wide range of nibbles, from hors d’oeuvres through desserts donated by local restaurants with beer, wine and non-alcoholic libations on tap.

Janeen led an impromptu tour of her 1910 William Wilson home that has remained in her family since its construction. A raffle with exciting prize packages raised another $1,200-plus dollars and one lucky neighbor took home the wine-and-food pairing for eight door prize donated by Kagan Cellars. The “Bob the Builder” mural painted by Hogg Middle School art students and construction props leant by neighbors Jane and Steve Ista set the theme. See the sponsor list for all who contributed to another fun preview party, with thanks to Peggy Sparks, Pat Schaper and Kim Lytle for leading the preview charge.

2018 Home Tour Grid Flat 600px.jpg

The next two days saw more than 800 visitors touring some or all of the eight featured homes, ranging from a 1,200-square-foot charmer now housing a family of five to the 6,600-square-foot beauty built by Woodland Heights’ founder William Wilson for his family. Some 200 docents and cashiers made the visitors feel welcome and shared the homes’ fascinating histories. Three of the homes were recently saved from the wrecking ball by homeowners with a love of the past and passion for restoration. Others had gone through earlier renovations, revisions and expansions to provide modern comforts while respecting their storied past.

The home tour chairs would like to express their sincere gratitude to all who came together to make the event such a success. The neighborhood’s largest fundraiser, proceeds will help keep our community connected and beautiful – truly “our hometown near downtown.”

Homes for the 2020 tour will be selected summer 2019 so if you would like yours to be considered, please email limoss@comcast.net.

Lights in the Heights: Tribute to Jan Greer and Call for Volunteers by Lori Bigler

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This past December was the 30th anniversary of Lights in the Heights, a Woodland Heights tradition. This memorable neighborhood event has been made possible by the hard work of volunteers right here in our community. 

The most recent Chairperson of the Lights in the Heights Committee was Jan Greer, who served from 2015 to 2017. Jan first served on the committee from 2011 to 2014 under the leadership of Terri Guerra, Glen Sementelli, and Tim McConn.  During that time she gained experience as Captain of the House Decorating Contest, T-Shirt Captain, and Secretary.  Jan has been hard-working, energetic, and eager to help in all of her roles.

Committee members recall her loaning personal décor items for the Gala, coordinating with local businesses, responding to countless e-mails and phone calls, and handling difficult situations with grace, even in the last few days before her second child was born! During her years as Chairperson she has worked to maintain the neighborhood and family-centered nature of Lights in the Heights by seeing to operations and logistics and maintaining appropriately-sized attendance.

L-to-R: Katie McCafferty (FNL Chair), Mrs Claus, Mr Claus, Jan Green (LITH Chair, 2015-17)

She oversaw three successful fundraising Galas and neighborhood-only Friday Night Lights events. Despite challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Jan and the Committee held a fantastic 30th Lights in the Heights celebration and organized additional neighborhood-only gatherings in the week leading up to the main event. Jan’s passion for the Woodland Heights and willingness to serve is clear, and we are so grateful for her leadership. Thank you, Jan!

After serving for three successful years as Chair, Jan has decided to step down for 2018. Our very own Beth Allen-Brock and Melissa McKee (with the blessing of the WHCA board) are searching for people willing to serve as Co-Chairs for the Lights in the Heights Committee.

This year the plan is to have multiple Co-Chairs to spread the load of the Chair position and welcome more volunteers to the committee. Jan has kindly consented to be a “consultant” for this year to help with the transition and provide valuable history and background on Lights in the Heights.

If you are interested in serving as a Co-Chair or in another role, please contact Melissa McKee and Beth Allen-Brock at lith-chair@woodland-heights.org.
 

WOODLAND HEIGHTS NTMP PROJECT Public Meeting Rescheduled For April 24th. by Lori Bigler

We received notification from the office of CM Cisneros that the city has has released the date & time for the 3rd public meeting about the NTMP project in WH.

Date:  Tuesday, April 24, 2018
Time:  7:00 ‐ 8:00 P.M. 
Place:  Travis Elementary School (Multi‐Purpose Room)
3311 Beauchamp
Houston, TX 77009

The city is mailing a notification to all residents. The mailing includes; a letter announcing the meeting, an annotated map of the project with a summary of the before & after project traffic count data.

It also includes a comment card. Residents will be able to submit comments by mail and online for 14 days after the meeting.

Yard-of-the-Month: 2624 Reagan by Lori Bigler

Yard of the month goes to Pat and James at 2624 Reagan. I have never seem a more beautiful garden than the one they have created on their triple corner lot over the last 30 years. It is truly magnificent! Pleasure your eyes and walk on by for some inspiration on how to create an oasis of green in the inner city.

Carla Reed
VP Beautification

Meet The new WHCA Board of Directors for 2018-19 by Lori Bigler

The Woodland-Heights Civic Association Board of Directors for 2018-19

The Woodland-Heights Civic Association Board of Directors for 2018-19

This evening the members present at the March General Meeting elected the following as the new WHCA board for the coming year. Listed in order left-to-right.

  • Beautification: Stephanie Riceman
  • Security: Cody McGregor
  • Secretary: Debbie Hall
  • Infrastructure: Matt Johnson 
  • Communications: Michael Graves
  • Membership: Jay Francis
  • President-Elect: Harry McMahon
  • Deed Restrictions: Melissa Sternfels
  • President: Matt Reynolds
  • Treasurer: Sharon Greiff

This new board will take the reigns on April 1st, 2018.

City of Houston NTMP Meeting To Be Rescheduled by Lori Bigler

The most recent WHCA newsletter included an article updating residents about the status of the City's NTMP* project in Woodland Heights. That article made reference to a public meeting that was planned for Tuesday, March 27th.

We have been informed by the city that the meeting is to be rescheduled for some time in early April. The city will mail residents an official meeting announcement when the new date & location are known.

*Neighborhood Traffic Management Program

2018 Woodland Heights Home Tour Starts This Friday! by Lori Bigler

The neighborhood’s largest fundraiser, its biannual home tour, will be held March 23-25. This year, a total of eight historic homes, including three “teardown turnaround” specials, will open their doors to visitors.

1 - 205 Bayland: Built by Woodland Heights founder William Wilson for his own family, this 6,363-square-foot prairie style home has been lovingly restored as a neighborhood showplace. The most recent update, completed in 2017, refreshed the interior with a modern aesthetic.

2 - 3302 Beauchamp: One of the early William Wilson homes, this beauty once housed rental units in the attic. Current owners have undertaken two renovations. The latest expanded the kitchen and created a new master suite.  The backyard now houses a beautiful pool area with its own kitchen, laundry and bath facilities.

3 - 1132 East 7th Street:  This charming brick bungalow packs a lot into 1,200 square feet, plus attic conversion, to function well for a family of five. The 1935 house welcomes visitors with white shiplap walls and stained ceilings, original doors converted to sliders, bold wallpaper and eclectic antiques.

4 - 500 Teetshorn:  Rather than building up, this home’s restorer raised the original single-story house and built a first floor beneath. The resulting home is true to its historic roots and features many period-perfect touches on both floors along with an open kitchen-family room space, high ceilings and transoms.

5 - 711 Woodland:  This historic district home features a thoughtful second-story addition accessed by an open, airy stairwell with a beautiful window on the landing. Custom touches include a screened in porch off the second floor back, stained glass windows in the master and concrete floors in the mudroom/laundry area.

Teardown Turnarounds:

6 - 3005 Houston:  Another original William Wilson home, this large two-story had been carved up into multiple rental spaces. Drawing upon their renovation expertise, the owners saved what they could and sourced period materials for windows, doors, floors, fixtures and stairwell.  Enjoy the eclectic antique collections showcased throughout the home. 

7 - 601 Woodland:  Originally 1,200 square feet, this home had been much neglected before new owners saw its potential, restoring the home, adding a two-story space to the back and creating an inviting landscape for outdoor living. Making creative use of space, custom touches include a dedicated pet room for dog rescues and a wine room tucked under the stairs.

8 - 714 Woodland:  Another potential teardown, the owners loved the home’s history and wide front porch, working to bring it back to life and restore it to single-family living. Check out the Brazilian antique doors guarding kitchen recesses and the original multi-paned windows throughout.

Preview Party

“Can we fix it?” Bob asks. His helpers reply, “Yes, we can!” 

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In salute to our teardown turnaround homes saved from the bulldozers, this year’s home tour preview party features a “Bob the Builder” theme. Don your best construction apparel (sequined tool belts, anyone?) and party at Janeen Cook’s historic William Wilson home at 530 Byrne on Friday night, March 23rd. 

The event will feature delicious hors d’oeuvres donated by local restaurants, wine and beer, and dancing to Zenteno Spirit’s Latin jazz. All ticket holders are eligible for the door prize drawing, a wine tasting for 10 generously donated by Kagan Cellars. Raffle items include Astros tickets, a weekend getaway, “Raid the Cellar” (remaining wine and beer) and many more prizes. Space is limited so get your tickets early! 

Party-goers also get an advance peak at the tour homes, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, with wine and cheese at each stop. Home tour tickets are valid all weekend.

Avoid the Lines!

New this year is a Friday night preview home tour-only ticket for $50. This allows you to tour and enjoy wine and cheese at each of the eight homes, but doesn’t include the party. Great for busy schedules! Note that while homeowners may be present at some of the homes, the Friday night preview is designed for viewing at your own pace without docents on hand to share insights as you go.

Volunteers Needed

Volunteers are still needed to serve as docents for the homes and cashiers at the ticket booth. A three-hour shift gets you a free home tour ticket! Plus it is a great way to meet new neighbors. To volunteer, please email limoss@comcast.net. Please indicate if you have a
preference for time slot and/or area (particular home or cashier), and we will try and accommodate.

Thanks to our Sponsors

The home tour committee is proud to report record-setting sponsor support for this year’s home tour and hopes to set a ticket-sales record as well, with our extra homes on offer. Many thanks to the generous neighborhood businesses who are underwriting this year’s tour and preview party. 

Banner
Morningside Architects

Banner
Morningside Architects

Door Hanger
Lucas Craftsmanship, Inc.

Homes
Sara Black Team, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Anderson Properties
Kay Harden, Coldwell Banker United, Realtors
Grogan Building Supply Co. and JELD-WEN Windows & Doors (2 homes)
Lucas Craftsmanship, Inc.
Yvonne Meyer, Karen Stowers, Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty, and Renovative Thinking
Melissa Kubala, Boulevard Realty, and The Modern Bungalow Co.
Mary Wassef, Circa Real Estate LLC & FW Heritage, LLC

Tickets
Boulevard Realty

Ticket Booth
Elizabeth Smith, The Mortgage Group

Brochure
Greenwood King Properties, Brigette Larson & Caroline Schlemmer
Bodensteiner Service Inc.
Four Square Design Studio
Hirsch & Westheimer PC
Master Car Care & Collison
Nick’s Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc.
Linda Hulsey & Steve Ciapi, Coldwell Banker United, Realtors

Floral
Athas Florist
Darlene’s Flower and Gift Shop
Gaye Jackson’s Flowers in the Heights
J.A. Polito III and Scherry Lindley
Kroger on Studemont
Nuvo Builders
Picked Flower Co.

Friends of Woodland Heights
Jane & Steve Ista
Nuvo Builders

In-Kind
BlueTileProject.com
Crowley Signs & Graphics
LP Printing
Pennebaker

‘Bob the Builder’ Preview Party
Special thanks to Janeen Cook

General Contractors
Mary & Nelson Curl
Greystar
Montalbano Lumber

Subcontractors
The Contemporary Craftsman
Gina Lesch
McIntyre + Robinowitz Architects PLLC
Semmler Pollard Properties

Vendors
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, Deborah Markey
Ista Construction
Hogg Middle School, Kati Ozanic’s class

Suppliers
Alexander Valley, Arnold Gilberg
Alice Blue
Andy's Home Café
B B's
Becker Vineyards
Bellagreen
Roland Chavez
DaCapo’s Pastry Café
Fusion Taco
Ginger & Fork
Good Dog
Hughie's Heights
Kroger on Studemont
Liberty Kitchen & Oyster Bar
Los Pinos Wines
French’s Gourmet Bakery
Pinkerton’s BBQ
Red Dive Dessert
Sonoma Wine Bar & Restaurant, Heights
Peggy Sparks, Realtor, Semmler Pollard Properties
Sprouts Farmers Market
Town in City Brewing

Door Prize
Emily Trout & Mark Ellenberger, Kagan Cellars

Raffle
Berryhill Baja Grill
Bojangles Music School
Buchanan's Native Plants
CAMBRIA
C&D Hardware
Citizen Pilates
Eclectic Home
Gridiron Cookers
Joshua's Native Plants & Garden
Lin Chong
Mila Nelson, Satori Salon
Natran, LLC
Polish Parker and Roe
Richard Hall
Tacos a Go-Go


Lucas Craftsmanship, Inc.

Homes
Sara Black Team, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Anderson Properties
Kay Harden, Coldwell Banker United, Realtors
Grogan Building Supply Co. and JELD-WEN Windows & Doors (2 homes)
Lucas Craftsmanship, Inc.
Yvonne Meyer, Karen Stowers, Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty, and Renovative Thinking
Melissa Kubala, Boulevard Realty, and The Modern Bungalow Co.
Mary Wassef, Circa Real Estate LLC & FW Heritage, LLC

Tickets
Boulevard Realty

Ticket Booth
Elizabeth Smith, The Mortgage Group

Brochure
Greenwood King Properties, Brigette Larson & Caroline Schlemmer
Bodensteiner Service Inc.
Four Square Design Studio
Hirsch & Westheimer PC
Master Car Care & Collison
Nick’s Plumbing & Sewer Service Inc.
Linda Hulsey & Steve Ciapi, Coldwell Banker United, Realtors

Floral
Athas Florist
Darlene’s Flower and Gift Shop
Gaye Jackson’s Flowers in the Heights
J.A. Polito III and Scherry Lindley
Kroger on Studemont
Nuvo Builders
Picked Flower Co.

Friends of Woodland Heights
Jane & Steve Ista
Nuvo Builders

In-Kind
BlueTileProject.com
Crowley Signs & Graphics
LP Printing
Pennebaker

‘Bob the Builder’ Preview Party
Special thanks to Janeen Cook

General Contractors
Mary & Nelson Curl
Greystar
Montalbano Lumber

Subcontractors
The Contemporary Craftsman
Gina Lesch
McIntyre + Robinowitz Architects PLLC
Semmler Pollard Properties

Vendors
Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, Deborah Markey
Ista Construction
Hogg Middle School, Kati Ozanic’s class

Suppliers
Alexander Valley, Arnold Gilberg
Alice Blue
Andy's Home Café
B B's
Becker Vineyards
Bellagreen
Roland Chavez
DaCapo’s Pastry Café
Fusion Taco
Ginger & Fork
Good Dog
Hughie's Heights
Kroger on Studemont
Liberty Kitchen & Oyster Bar
Los Pinos Wines
French’s Gourmet Bakery
Pinkerton’s BBQ
Red Dive Dessert
Sonoma Wine Bar & Restaurant, Heights
Peggy Sparks, Realtor, Semmler Pollard Properties
Sprouts Farmers Market
Town in City Brewing

Door Prize
Emily Trout & Mark Ellenberger, Kagan Cellars

Raffle
Berryhill Baja Grill
Bojangles Music School
Buchanan's Native Plants
CAMBRIA
C&D Hardware
Citizen Pilates
Eclectic Home
Gridiron Cookers
Joshua's Native Plants & Garden
Lin Chong
Mila Nelson, Satori Salon
Natran, LLC
Polish Parker and Roe
Richard Hall
Tacos a Go-Go

WHCA General Meeting Tonight! by Lori Bigler

The March General Meeting of the WHCA will take place tonight! That's Tuesday, March 20th at 7pm in the cafeteria at Hogg Middle School, 1100 Merrill. 

The focus of this meeting will be the election of a new board of directors for the 2018-19 fiscal year. Over the past seven weeks the nominating committee has sought out candidates to run for the board. Now that nominations are closed, the final list of candidates is as follows:

  • President: Matt Reynolds (current President-Elect)
  • President-Elect: Harry McMahon
  • Deed Restrictions: Melissa Sternfels
  • Communications: Michael Graves (Incumbent)
  • Membership: Jay Francis, Kelly Hare
  • Treasurer: Sharon Greiff
  • Beautification: Stephanie Riceman
  • Security: Cody McGregor
  • Infrastructure: Matt Johnson (Incumbent)
  • Secretary: Debbie Hall

This meeting is your once a year opportunity to meet the candidates and cast your vote for who you think should help steer WHCA for the coming year. Come let your voice be heard!

Nominations from the floor of the meeting are not allowed. All WHCA Board members must be current homeowner members of the WHCA, and the VP of Deed Restrictions must also be a licensed attorney.