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Have you paid your
Annual membership dues? Pay online at:
www.braeswoodplace.org Of Interest: Brays Bayou Clean Up Day – pg 3 Board Election-See bios – pgs 4-5 Linkwood Park Party – pg 6 Index: President’s Message1 Calendar/Reminders2 Membership 2 Security 3 BB Service Day 3 Board Nominations4-5 Karl Young Park 5 Recycling 6 BPMOYC 6 Linkwood Park 6 McGovern Library 7 Twain Elem 7 Garden Club 7 Longfellow Elem 8 Pershing MS 8 Yard of Month 9 NNO Follow up 9 Traffic Program 10 Advertisers 10-19 Contact Info 20
Many neighbors participated in the 30th anniversary of National Night Out on October 7. Some blocks did not have a gathering; however, I encourage you to get to know your neighbors. My awesome neighbors have texted me when they noticed something suspicious going on around my house. Your neighbors can only alert you if they know you and have your number! Also, thank you to Nicole Shah for coordinating NNO as well as visits by our Constable Deputies to many of the parties. Ballots All BPHA members will receive a ballot to vote for 2015 BPHA Board Members. Many thanks to the Nomination Chair, Jerry McClain, and the Nomination Committee Bill Blackwood, Stormy Hayes-Knipe and Drake Terrell. We have a great slate for you to approve which includes several members who will serve on the board for the first time. Volunteering for the BPHA Board is something that community leaders do to maintain and improve our neighborhood and it is invigorating to continually have fresh perspectives on the board. Sidewalks Many thanks to the neighbors putting their trash cans in the street against the curb! Sidewalks have been much easier to navigate on Tuesday mornings. Please keep up the good work in keeping sidewalks clear for wheelchairs, strollers and people to use. Also, please try to keep landscaping cut to the edge of the sidewalk and branches trimmed so that an average height person may pass. Privately Funded Sidewalk Replacement Program Starting July 2015 the City’s PWE department will administer a program to improve pedestrian safety by repairing, replacing, and installing sidewalks through privately-funded work order contracts. The program includes new and existing sidewalks which will be paid for by the abutting property owners. Permits, inspection, and construction will be managed by PWE. The application process was scheduled to open October 2014. A general outline of the program is available on our website and you can search for the program at http://www.houstontx.gov/publicworks/ for additional details. Sidewalks will be completed on a “first in-first out” basis. Leash Law Please remember that there is a city ordinance that requires a person to have “direct physical control” of the animal, which means to keep your pet on a leash. Your dog may be great for you, but your easy-going dog trotting toward a grouchy dog on a leash poses a problem for the owner of the grouchy dog. Allowing your pet to “run at large” may result in impoundment of the animal or a citation. Braes Bayou “campers” Thanks to the resident who shared this information based on years of experience and research! No one should be living under the bridges along Braes Bayou as it is unsafe for them, and camping is illegal there. HPD is responsible for policing the trail, and the county is responsible for maintaining the trail and removing debris. The HPD office contact at the Westbury storefront can be reached at 713-726-7126. The five bridges are immediately east of our neighborhood—Kirby, Main, Greenbriar, between Greenbriar and Main, and between Main and Kirby. Some “permanent” illegal campers moved in a few months ago. Years ago, the first “sweep” of campers under the bridges resulted in multiple arrests for drug possession and a wanted felon. Please report illegal campers!
Sentinel
November 2014
President’s Message by Linda Barcot
Braeswood Place Homeowners Association A Deed-Restricted Community 4010 Blue Bonnet Suite 112 Houston, TX 77025 713-666-7248 [email protected]
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BPHA BOARD MEETING Thursday, November 13, 2014 - 7 pm
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 6800 Buffalo Speedway, Jamail Family Center
Residents are welcome to attend and observe Board meetings. We designate the first 15 minutes of BPHA Board meetings for “Open Feedback” by BPHA members who register in advance to speak. To register, members must call the BPHA Office, 713-666-7248, by 2 pm, Wednesday, November 12. The 15 minutes will be divided equally among the registered speakers with 5-minute maximum time for each.
BPHA CALENDAR OF EVENTS November and December
Tues Nov 4 Recycle North of BB Thurs Nov 13 Recycle South of BB Thurs Nov 13 BPHA Board Meeting Mon Nov 17 TREE Heavy Trash South of BB and S.
Braeswood east of Bevlyn Mon Nov 17 Sentinel Deadline for December Mon Nov 17 BBA mtg, 7:30 pm, Gathering Place, 5310
S. Willow Tues Nov 18 Recycle North of BB Tues Nov 18 TREE Heavy Trash North of BB and S.
Braeswood west of Bevlyn Thurs Nov 20 BSN mtg, 6:30 pm, Linkwood Comm
Center, 3699 Norris Thurs Nov 27 THANKSGIVING-No garbage pick up Fri Nov 28 Thursday garbage pick up Fri Nov 28 BPHA Office Closed-Holiday Tue Dec 2 Recycle North of BB Mon Dec 8 BBA mtg, 7:30 pm, Gathering Place, 5310
S. Willow Thurs Dec 11 Recycle South of BB Thurs Dec 11 BPHA Board Meeting Mon Dec 15 JUNK Heavy Trash South of BB and S.
Braeswood east of Bevlyn Mon Dec 15 Sentinel Deadline for January Tues Dec 16 Recycle North of BB Tues Dec 16 JUNK Heavy Trash North of BB and S.
Braeswood west of Bevlyn Thurs Dec 18 BSN mtg, 6:30 pm, Linkwood Comm
Center, 3699 Norris Wed Dec 24 BPHA Office closed Thurs Dec 25 No Trash or Recycle pick up! Fri Dec 26 BPHA Office closed Fri Dec 26 Recycle North of BB Fri Dec 26 THURSDAY TRASH PICK UP BB-Brays Bayou; BW-Braeswood; BBA-Braes Bayou Assoc; BSN-Braeswood Super Neighborhood; KYP-Karl Young Park; SL-Stella Link; SVDP-St. Vincent de Paul
IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTICE
Before beginning new construction, remodeling, or adding a room, driveway, or garage, you must submit three sets of plans for BPHA deed restriction review. There is a $200 fee for renovation plan review and a $500 fee for new construction plan review.
BUILDER’S PLEDGE OF MAINTENANCE Each month, Builders agree to participate in BPHA’s Construction Guidelines and Pledge of Maintenance while constructing and remodeling homes in our area. By signing the pledge, these companies agree to follow a number of guidelines that make their construction site more “neighbor friendly”. We appreciate the builders’ commitment to our neighborhood!
3026 Glen Haven – Kuck Custom Homes 3638 Aberdeen – Remodel
3622 Underwood – BAS Concepts 3806 Bellefontaine – BAS Concepts
LOST OR FOUND A PET? Contact the Braeswood Place Pet Rescue
Group! www.braeswoodpets.com
Tim Hebert – [email protected]
713-446-0574 or 713-668-1273
“Finding homes for homeless animals and pets for petless homes”
ADVERTISER NOTICE
BPHA does not endorse nor recommend Sentinel advertisers. Before contracting for service, check references and recommendations from independent sources. THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTING MEMBERS!
Sustainers ($200) Joyce and Jack Soliman
Angela Prince and Eric Peden Brittany and Paul Schaefer
Lex and Joyce Frieden Supporters ($100)
Linda and Mark Smith Lisa and Richard Carlos
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Constable Patrol Statistics for September 2014
Abandoned Vehicle 1 Accidents 1 Alarm Responses 30 Animal Welfare 2 Burglary of Habitation 3 Burglary of Vehicle 4 Checks of Residences 394 Checks of Buildings/Schools 127 Checks of Parks, Parking Lots 62 Criminal Mischief 3 Disturbances/Loud Noise 4 Fire 1 Follow up 2 Found Property 1 Investigations of Suspicious Persons, Cars
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Mental illness 1 Open door/window response 14 Solicitors 6 Speeding 2 Telephone Harassment 1 Theft 3 Traffic Monitoring (arrests, citations, hazards, stops, warnings, removals)
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Vacation Watches 226 Warrant Service 1 Miles Patrolled 5,915
SECURITY UPDATE by Janet Maxian
Our neighborhood continues to experience crimes of opportunity. Residents leave valuables behind in their vehicles. Sometimes these vehicles are locked but the valuables are in plain view. Sometimes residents leave their vehicles unlocked. Sometimes garages are left open with their contents clearly visible to would- be thieves. We all must do what we can to remove the opportuni-ties for crime and thus make our neighborhood less attractive to the thieves. To see how our neighborhood compares in crime to those near to us, you can access these websites: City of Houston beats: http://www.houstontx.gov. BPHA beat is 15E30. City of Bellaire website: www.bellairewest.org. The website re-fers people to www.houstontx.gov , beat location 19G20 for crime reports. West University website: www.westutx.gov. Go to the Police tab and then click on Crime Reports. Southside Place website: www.ci.southside-place.tx.us. This city does not report crime statistics to the public. They only report to homeowners who are members of their Association. But they do list the phone number of their Police Department so that people can report incidents directly to that department.
BRAYS BAYOU CLEAN-UP DAY SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 8 am
We need volunteers to work for about an hour. We are going to be targeting the area of the trail near the I-45 underpass where there is a lot of trash accumulating. You can always work along the trail as you wish, but we will be focusing beautification efforts on this area to make a concentrated impact. Trash gathering supplies, including trash bags, pickers, and gloves, will be provided for volunteers. Contact Bob Schwartz, [email protected] or Amy Dinn, [email protected] for further details or questions!
HOLIDAY CAUTIONS by Janet Maxian and Karen Spearman
OUT AND ABOUT: *When leaving your home, leave on lights and radio or TV and be sure to arm your alarm system! If traveling out of town, request a Vacation Watch if you are a member of our Constable Patrol (CP). *While shopping, park in well-lighted areas and store items out of sight of car windows. Stay alert to your surroundings. Do not talk on your cell phone if it distracts you. Keep your keys in your hand when approaching your car. *When in your vehicle, check your rear view and side mirrors frequently. If you suspect you are being followed, drive to the nearest police station or a public place. Do NOT drive home! AT HOME: *Keep wrapped presents away from view and do not leave large boxes identifying your new items on the curb for trash collection. Break down for recycling. *If you are having a holiday party and are a member of the CP, notify them to patrol the area for you. *Keep garages and cars locked at all times. Open garages with new bikes are an easy target! *Be alert to noises such as barking dogs, activated car and home alarms. Get to know your neighbors and their schedules. *After the holidays is a great time to update your household inventory with photos and serial numbers of new items. If your home is burglarized, recovering stolen items or filing insurance claims is much easier with detailed information.
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BPHA 2015 BOARD ELECTIONS by Jerry McClain
I want to thank the nominating committee, Stormy Hayes-Knipe, Bill Blackwood and Drake Terrell, for their work and knowledge in bringing us this fine slate of nominees. Our upcoming board will no doubt continue the tradition of unpaid but professional-like service to our Braeswood neighborhood. Ballots will be mailed on Monday, November 10, 2014 to all BPHA members who have paid their HOA dues as of October 24, 2014. (One ballot per household.) Ballots must be returned or postmarked by November 26, 2014 to be counted. Replacement ballots will not be provided. However, any member who wants to claim a ballot in person may go to the BPHA office (4010 Blue Bonnet Ste. 112) on Monday, November 10 between 10-2. Ballots will be counted the first week in December and results will be posted at the BPHA office and announced at the December Board meeting and in the December Sentinel. Board vacancies vary by area and your ballot will only contain the candidates for which you are eligible to vote. Candidates were asked to submit short biographies. Please read them. Phone numbers or emails are listed if you have any questions. Please circle the candidates on your ballot who you want to elect and return ballot right away for counting. PRESIDENT – JAMES BAKER James Baker has been a resident of Braeswood Place since 1998. He grew up in Dallas, studied undergraduate at The Colorado College and did graduate study at the University of Texas. James is a Managing Director at Simmons & Company International. James' wife, Sarah Callahan Baker is actively involved at Mark Twain Elementary and the Chinquapin College Preparatory School. Their two children are often seen walking a high anxiety rescue cocker ‘Beat-rix’. Phone: 832-309-5830 VICE PRESIDENT CENTRAL - LINDA BARCOT My name is Linda Barcot and I have lived in Braeswood Place since 2004. This is a great neighborhood and I ac-tively enjoy just about all that it has to offer. I walk/bike/drive to Mark Twain Elementary, see shows at Pershing Middle School, go to the YMCA, visit the library and got my passport renewed there, took our family photo at Helen’s Park, call in suspicious people to the Constable and the list goes on. I have had the privilege of supporting our community alongside many other volunteers on the board since 2006 and look forward to serving as VP Central in 2015. Cell: 832-217-8581 VICE PRESIDENT EAST - JACK STOPNICKI My name is Jack Stopnicki and I have lived in the neigh-borhood since 1988. I have served on various positions on the board including Area 12 director and chairman of the Neighborhood Street and Drainage Committee. I am cur-rently in charge of Neighborhood Beautification. I am hon-ored to serve as Vice President East. My wife Karen, and my son Ben, really enjoy the neighborhood and look for-ward to spending many more years here. I am self-employed and own the Ticket Stop, a business I started in 1989. I sell tickets to all concerts and sporting events in the Houston area and nationwide. My office is located just out-side Braeswood Place at 6733 Stella Link at Bellaire. [email protected]. VICE PRESIDENT WEST – CARLA BROWNLEE I am honored and humbled to be nominated for the West-VP Position on the Braeswood Place Homeowners Asso-ciation. My husband Richard and I moved into Braeswood Place the summer of 2011. We have two girls ages 7 and 4. Our oldest daughter is a second grader at Mark Twain. Our youngest daughter attends Pre-K at Pilgrim
Lutheran School. I teach AP US History at The High School for Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice (HISD) and an Adjunct College Professor at HCC. My husband is an electrical engineer at NOV. Since I moved into the neighborhood, I have worked on many projects that have affected this neighborhood's safety and appearance. My latest project was working with the city of Houston to the get the street at 4141 N. Braeswood at the Kilmarnock Ditch repaired. My main goals are to make this neighbor-hood safe, desirable and maintain the type of amenities that makes this one of the most sought after neighborhoods in-side the loop. TREASURER – MARY BESHEARS My name is Mary Beshears and I have been a Braeswood Place resident for 17 years. I was elected Treasurer in January 2014 as successor to Matt Malinsky, who resigned after 6 faithful years of service to BPHA. My husband, Mark, and I have two children, one of whom, Matt, is still on the payroll as a junior studying chemical engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Our older son, Will, is working in private equity in Silicon Valley. I am a CPA and employed as CFO for WEDGE Energy Holdings, a privately-held oilfield services company. I appreciate the opportunity to serve as Treasurer and look forward to continuing my service next year. Phone: 832-287-5216. SECRETARY-STEPHEN OSTROW My name is Stephen Ostrow and I am very pleased to be nominated for the Secretary position. My wife Karen and I have been residents and BPHA members for the last four-teen and a half years. During the last eight years it has been my privilege to serve as Secretary (2010 - 2014) and as Area 12 Director (2007 – 2009). This year has been both a busy and rewarding one and I enjoyed recording the minutes at the monthly BPHA Board meetings. As in the past, I will continue working with the BPHA Membership committee to increase the number of active members in both the home owners association and to support the Con-stable Patrol. With your vote, I can continue to serve my friends and neighbors in Area 12 and all of Braeswood Place. I look forward to continuing to serve and addressing the challenges ahead in our neighborhood. Thank you for this opportunity! Phone: 713-661-9346.
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DIRECTOR, AREA 3: DRAKE TERRELL Drake and his wife Joan have lived in Braeswood Place since November of 1998. They love the neighborhood and have enjoyed many activities with their neighbors through the years. Their oldest son, Jake, is a student at Texas A&M and their youngest son, Dylan, is in eighth grade at Pershing. Drake is a Realtor with Heritage Texas Properties and an assistant coach for Pershing Boys Lacrosse. Drake is an advocate for our neighborhood and values the diverse character and quality of Braeswood Place. Phone: 713-557-6000. DIRECTOR, AREA 4: DENNIS BARROW Dennis and his wife Heather have lived in Braeswood Place since they married and moved to Bellefontaine Street in 1998. They loved the neighborhood so much that they built a new home on their lot eight years ago. They have 3 children. Lauren is in 6th grade at Pin Oak Middle School. Lily and Connor are in 5th grade and 3rd grade, respectively, at Mark Twain. Dennis graduated from Rice University and UT School of Law. He is a litigation attorney and partner at Ware, Jackson, Lee and Chambers, LLP. Both Dennis and Heather love and respect the diversity and community spirit of our neighborhood in the middle of this big city. Dennis is honored to assist in protecting and supporting this great neighborhood. Phone: 713-659-6400; [email protected] DIRECTOR, AREA 6: MICHAEL KENT I first learned of this wonderful neighborhood through my wife Jessica who grew up on Durness Way. Our family moved back to the neighborhood in 2006 during the Pershing rebuild and before street reconstruction began so that our two young children could attend the amazing Mark Twain Elementary School and enjoy this rare inner loop area with safe, tree-lined streets. It is my hope and intent that as a career professional in commercial real estate management, I can lend my experience and expertise in continuing the good work the Association has performed in enhancing the value of our homes. I believe we live in the
best neighborhood in town, we are all responsible for maintaining its status, and I am ready to take my turn in a leadership role to ensure its future. [email protected] or 713-398-9444 mobile. DIRECTOR, AREA 8: RUI & DAVID ROBERTS We have lived on Deal Street in Braeswood Place for almost 41 years. Our children were raised here and we have always loved the neighborhood. We are both now retired and hope that our service as Area 8 Director can help the South of the Bayou part of BPHA become a stronger part of civic association. Phone: 713- 665-6979. DIRECTOR, AREA 9: JERRY McCLAIN I have lived in Braes Terrace since 1988 after marrying my wife, Cindy. Prior to that, I lived in West University Place after moving to Houston in 1973. I am a graduate of the University of Houston and have two grown children and six grandchildren who live in Portland, Oregon and Austin, Texas. I am presently retired after working in the securities and advertising industries during my employment years. With the exception of a work related six years spent in Chicago, I have spent the last 29 years living within a 3 mile radius of Braeswood Place. This is my third year as Area 9 representative. As such, I was chairman of the successful drive to bring the Granville Streetlights to the area south of the bayou. Your board is a hard-working, serious, highly competent and vital element to the quality of our growing neighborhood and I would like to continue to serve as your Area 9 Representative. Phone: 713-203-6934. DIRECTOR, AREA 10: STEVE LISS Stephen Liss has lived in Braeswood Place since 2009. He is a partner of the law firm Taylor, Taylor and Russell in downtown Houston. He is divorced with no children. He is proud to be a part of the community and sought this position as a way of giving back to the neighborhood. Phone: 713-615-6073, direct office line. Voice mails are emailed to cell phone.
KARL YOUNG PARK SERVICE DAY SET FOR DECEMBER 6!
by Jarret Reeves I have spoken to the right city officials to understand the Karl Young Park maintenance schedule for green space and structures. Unfortunately, the only regular maintenance is grass cutting and picking up trash. Everything else such as mulching, tree trims, cleaning pavilion, etc. is ad hoc at best and largely depends on the backlog of 311 items. The city indicated tasks such as tree trimming have a large backlog and therefore they tackle the trees tagged as safety items only for now. Other items I would mark as necessary, such as killing ants, fertilizing, winterizing, etc. are not performed at all. So what does this mean for our community? We have to roll up our sleeves by putting in some manual labor, but also fundraising to augment the basic maintenance. I am trying to get a cost and plan together. In the interim, it is time to schedule our first Service Day! We will schedule a Saturday morning to bring the community together and knock out some long overdue tasks. This will include spraying for ants, winterizing, trimming, cleaning, etc. Please mark your calendar for Saturday, December 6 for the first Service Day event! We will start at 8 am and go to noon. Just bring yourself, any gardening tools you may find helpful and a willingness to help! I will ensure there is coffee, donuts, and the tools required for the day. Any questions or comments please send note to [email protected].
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RECYCLING UPDATE – RECYCLE THAT CONCRETE! by Susie Loredo
Houston homeowners tearing out sidewalks or patios are now able to help the City save landfill fees by recycling those chunks of concrete. Residents can drop off concrete at no cost at one of the City’s six Neighborhood Depository and Recycling Centers. The City has partnered with The Cherry Company, a large demolition company, to put the material to good reuse. Recycled concrete is a valuable resource and is used in erosion control, parking lots, and as an underlayment for new roadways and highways. The company returns 100% of the recycled concrete aggregate product into new construction, local maintenance and repair projects.
Houston 311 App: Want to report a pothole, broken traffic signal, or graffiti while on the go? The Houston311 app makes reporting issues like these easy. The app uses GPS to identifyyour location and also allows you to snap a photo to add to your service request. Catalogues and junk mail: ‘Tis the season for catalogues to flood our mailboxes. Unsubscribing online on the company’s website can be easy or difficult, depending on the company. You usually need your customer ID number, which is on the back of the catalogue above your name and mailing address. Another way is to use the services of Catalogue Choice at www.cataloguechoice.com . You create an account and then opt out of catalogues and junk mail you no longer wish to receive.
BRAESWOOD PLACE MOTHERS OF YOUNG CHILDREN
byJodi Martin
A special THANK YOU to Isha Archer and Lauren Bireley and the volunteer team for hosting the annual Halloween Party at Karl Young Park! More than fifty kids enjoyed decorating pumpkins, jumping in the bounce houses, touching the creepy crawly items in the sensory cauldrons and face painting! Have you been thinking about joining our group? Now is the best time to join because the cost is FREE through the remainder of the year! If you are interested, please contact [email protected]. Upcoming Events: Home Shopping Night Mom’s Night Out with 20+ vendors; Couple’s Night at Top Golf of Houston; Mom’s Night Out Holiday Party at Tiny’s #5; FROZEN Family Holiday Party! STORK REPORT:
Shannon and Tim Revels welcomed Nathaniel Scott on September 14. Siblings Brynn, Collin and Reed are excited to have a baby brother!
Alissa and Aaron welcomed Delphine Rosalie Moyse on Thursday, September 25 Lauren and John Bireley welcomed Elizabeth Patricia on October 6. Big sisters Sophie and Amelia
are excited to have a baby sister!
McGOVERN-STELLA LINK NEIGHBORHOOD LIBRARY
PICS and PICKS at LINKWOOD PARK - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2-4 pm Pics will be snapping and guitar picks will be strumming at Pics and Picks in the Park Sunday, November 2 from 2 – 4 pm at Linkwood Park. Neighborhood photographers will be on hand to take some family pics in the park just in time for holiday cards-pets are welcome too! Come out to the park and celebrate fall with food trucks, fun, and fabulous entertainment from local musi-cians! Proceeds benefit the Linkwood Park renovation. All neighborhood photographers and musicians are welcome to participate- contact Jenna Arnold at [email protected] for details.
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McGOVERN-STELLA LINK LIBRARY NOVEMBER ACTIVITIES Mon-12-8; Tues-10-6; Wed-12-8; Thurs-10-6; Fri-1-5; Sat-10-5; Sun-closed
The library will be closed November 11, 27 and 28. Story Time (ages 3-5 years): Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11am all month Toddler Time (ages 1-3 years): Thursdays at 11am all month Baby Lapsit (ages 0-12 months): Thursdays at 11am all month Tune Time for Kids: Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:30 pm all month Para Los Ninos – Bilingual Story Time – November 17 at 2:15 pm Chinese Class: Thursdays at 10 am all month Needle Work Club: November 1, 15, and 29 from 3 – 5 pm E-book Open House: Every Wednesday at Noon and 6 pm (bring e-reader and cord) Intro to MS Word: November 4 at 1:30 pm Intermediate MS Word: November 3 at 6 pm; November 6 at 1:30 pm Intermediate MS Excel: November 10 at 6 pm; November 13at 1:30 pm Intro to MS PowerPoint: November 18 at 1:30 pm Intermediate MS PowerPoint: November 17 at 6 pm; November 20 at 1:30 pm Intermediate MS Access: November 24 at 6 pm Computer Help Session: November 25 at 1:30 pm Passports processed: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Call for hours.
MARK TWAIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
by Nicole Shah
The Mark Twain community had a successful and busy October. The PTO announced the “Pony Up for the Playground” initiative wherein it will be raising funds over the next few months to renovate the playground and replace the playground equipment. If you would like to donate to this initiative or for more information, go to www.marktwainpto.org. Mark Twain also had its largest fall fundraiser, Spooky Spaghetti, which was a “spooktacular” community event benefiting the school. Thanks to all the sponsors, volunteers, attendees, staff and the Spooky Spaghetti team members led by Elecia Wheeler and Frankie Sartin. In November, Mark Twain celebrates its deep literacy roots with its annual book fair and Storybook Parade. The “Paws for Reading” Book Fair will take place in the cafeteria during the week of November 17-21. The Storybook Parade will be on Wednesday, November 19 at 8:30 am. Family Fun Night is Thursday, November 20 from 5-7 pm in the Cafeteria. Please join us for Firehouse Subs, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, teacher storytelling, face painting, games and more! For more information, contact Book Fair Co-Chairs: Holly Lee at [email protected] or Jennifer Fernandez at [email protected]. ADDITIONAL EVENTS: Friday, November 7- Dad’s Campout. Mark Twain Dads and their kids will pitch their tents and enjoy an evening of games, movie, s’mores and more. Wednesday, November 12- PTO Meeting at 8 am November, November 26-30-Thanksgiving Holiday
BRAESWOOD PLACE GARDEN CLUB by Janet Maxian and Kathy Jenkins
The November meeting will be held at the home of Betsy Edwards, 3751 Rice Boulevard. The members will be working on a seasonal craft activity. All are invited to join the group! If you would like additional infor-mation, call Kathy Jenkins at 713-661-9939 or Janet Maxian at 713-668-4645.
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LONGFELLOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL by Jessica Evans
Thanks to all who came out to our Middle School Informational on September 25. We were so pleased to have representatives from so many different area middle schools (Pershing, Pin Oak, Lanier, Fondren, Johnston, Young Men's College Prep and Young Women's College Prep) sharing about all the great things their schools have to offer! We hope to make this an annual event. The Sean Covey Leadership Day/Book Signing on October 8 was a great success and it was inspiring to hear about the enormous transformative difference The Leader in Me has made at the school! This event was student-led and they did an amazing job! Thank you also for all those who came to the Longfellow Informational Session on October 21 and thanks to parent Catherine Beebe for hosting. Magnet Awareness week is November 3-7. Longfellow Elementary will give tours daily at 1 pm. Magnet Applications will be accepted November 2. Longfellow Band, Orchestra, and Choir students will be competing at the Renaissance Festival Wednesday November 5. Please join us at the Longfellow Book Fair at Barnes and Noble on Tuesday November 11 from 5-7:30 pm. Stock up on some books and be entertained by performances from our magnet students.
PERSHING MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS by Kate Perez
The school year has gotten into a regular routine at Pershing and Principal Kim Heckman reports a student en-rollment of about 1,600. Parents should attend the PTO meetings when possible to get regular updates from Mrs. Heckman and to find out about new activities scheduled. Just a reminder, the PTO’s general meetings are on the second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 pm in the school library. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, No-vember 11. DID YOU KNOW? As part of regular curriculum review, Pershing developed new programs for 2014-2015 encompassing high lev-el Math and Science classes to meet increasing students’ needs in these areas. Eighth graders can now take Bi-ology, Concepts of Engineering, and Principles of Information Technology and qualify for high school credit. COMING UP: Magnet Week - November 3 - 7. Spaghetti Super - Thursday, November 13 from 6 - 8 pm. The spotlight will shine on our showcase of talent which includes Gymnastics, Dance, Cheerleaders, Pep Squad, Choir, Orchestra, Guitar, Jazz Band, Drama, and Music Production. Stroll the halls and enjoy the beautiful art created by Pershing students. Admission is free to enjoy this event. Dinner will be catered by Gugliani's. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased online at: http://pershingpto.org/fundraising/ and click on Spaghetti Supper to get to the order form. All orders must be placed by Wednesday, November 12. There will also be a cash RAFFLE! Prizes include an iPad Air, Beats by Dre, and an HP Slate plus other fun items. Tickets are $5 each or $20 for 5 tickets. Winners will be drawn at 8 pm and you do not need to be present to win. If you have any questions, email [email protected]. We hope to see you there! FOR MORE INFO ON PERSHING Check out the school website: http://www.houstonisd.org/pershing Check out the PTO website: http://pershingpto.org/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pershing-Middle-School/144190612349503 Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PershingMS_PTO
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GARDEN OF THE MONTH by Jackie Addington
Yard of the month for October is located at 3206 Glen Arbor Drive, home of Thom and Margie Venus. The homeowners have owned their home for 23 years and completed a renovation after hurricane Allison. As an en-gineer, Thom Venus states that he follows a well-organized plan in his garden. Evidence of this planning, and the most striking feature, is the stone wall which curves around the front sidewalk that leads to the homes' en-trance. On the opposite side of the sidewalk is an attractive columned railing. A hedge of pittosporum and box-wood follow the curving wall and provide the backdrop for plantings including wood fern, asparagus fern, sago palms, agapanthus, and liriope, with roses, vinca, and penta for color. For height, a shaped holly, yew, palms, and magnolia along with beautiful live oaks create a serene and welcoming yard.
HOME OF THOM AND MARGIE VENUS
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT THANK YOU HOSTS! by Nicole Shah, NNO Chairperson
Wow!! Our community knows how to fight crime. It was another wonderful year for National Night Out in Braeswood Place. There were over 30 blocks participating in National Night Out gatherings. Thank you to the neighbors who stepped up and agreed to host. BPHA truly appreciates all those families that hosted. To show our appreciation, BPHA had a raffle drawing among all the hosts for a $25 gift card to Cherry de Pon. Drake Terrell’s family, who hosted the NNO gathering for the 4100 block of Gairloch and Solway, won the gift card. If your block did not have a gathering, it is never too late to invite your neighbors over for an informal gathering or you can sign up to be a host next year.
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NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFICMANAGEMENT PROGRAM
by Nicole Shah
Thank you to all the residents who attended the first Neighborhood Traffic Program (NTMP) public meeting. This is a very inclusive process with large citizen input. There are a minimum of three public meetings with a 14 day comment period following each meeting. The traffic study has a very limited scope in that it only examines speeding and cut-through traffic on interior neighborhood streets. In the next month, expect NTMP to put out devices to monitor speeding and cut-through traffic on the streets in the study boundary. The devices will be in place for 24 hours per day for one week. In order to be eligible for speed cushions, 15% of the traffic must be going 33 mph or greater OR the percentage of cut-through traffic is greater than 20% of the observed volume. Some additional highlights:
The traffic study does not review stop sign placement, parking restrictions, crosswalks, or bus routes.The study boundary is the interior neighborhood streets north of N. Braeswood, south of Bellaire, west of Buffalo Speedway and east of the railroad tracks.The speed cushions used are modular, not asphalt. They are 6 ½ feet each with a gap in between, this design allows emergency vehicles to straddle them.A Neighborhood Traffic Committee is forming so all areas of the study boundary are represented.You can find more information about the NTMP process athttp://www.publicworks.houstontx.gov/traffic/programs.html. There will also be updates posted on the BPHA website. You can go to www.braeswoodplace.org and click on Notices and then choose the traffic study category.
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Sold in Third Quarter of 2014 Currently Available for Sale
Original, Older Homes
Total number sold Average sold price Highest sold price Lowest sold price Average days on market New/Recent Construction
Total number sold Average sold price Highest sold price Lowest sold price Average days on market
Original, Older Homes
Available on October 26 Average asking price Highest asking price Lowest asking price Pending sales on October 26 New/Recent Construction
Available on October 26 Average asking price Highest asking price Lowest asking price Pending sales on October 26
19 $588,460 $755,250 $355,000 19
12 $1,123,483 $1,450,000 $ 623,000 31
6$541,500 $615,000 $355,000 6
13 $1,541,212 $1,898,875 $1,165,000 2
Steve Anton Hallmark Properties
713-666-3400
The Sales Leader in Braeswood Place for 24 Years
Where does your house fit in the current market?
Curious about a specific home?
Call us today.
LUXURY, CUSTOM HOMES FROM THE $500s TO $1-MILLION+
COME TO A CUSTOM HOME BUILDING WORKSHOP WITH YOUR IDEAS!Call us today at 713 667 3397
THE IDEA BANK FORCUSTOM HOMES.
The Build on Your Lot team at PARTNERS IN BUILDING is like
the Idea Bank for custom homes. As the largest custom home builder
in Texas, we’ve built luxury homes since 1986 on every kind of home
site. We’re always learning from our customers, too, as we work with
them to design their one-of-a-kind home from scratch. Our Build
on Your Lot team has learned there is more to building a custom
home than just a floor plan and a home site. It’s a process, and we are
experts in delivering the things you want most in your home, on time
and on budget. When we’re finished, there won’t be another home
like yours. That’s something you can take to the bank.
From the first meeting to the handing over of the keys, Partners in Building was there whenever we needed them and built a house that will last a lifetime. We have told many of our friends, “Why would you build a house with anyone else?” – Charlie and Carol
“ “
See a David Weekley Homes Build on Your Lot Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2014 David Weekley Homes - All Rights Reserved. Houston, TX (HOUA54559)
Your land, our qualityBuild the home of your dreams on your
own land in a location you know and love. With the David Weekley Homes Build
on Your Lot Program, you’ll enjoy the best in Design, Choice and Service from a
home builder known for giving you more.
Experience the David Weekley Difference.
Dream. Build. Enjoy.
For more information about
David Weekley Homes Build on Your Lot
program, call 281-249-7760
3139 W. Holcombe Blvd., #235Houston, TX 77025
Call or email for free market analysis or market update.
Real Estate Services • Real Estate Sales and Appraisals
A Full Service Realtor with value added knowledge, resources, and understanding of the current Real Estate Market.
Full Service Real Estate Brokerage with flexible commission rates and 32 Years experience in our neighborhoods.
713-825-8015www.larrymartinrealtor.com
3735 Dumbarton St.Houston, TX 77025
Call or email for free market analysis or market update.
A Full Service Realtor with value added knowledge, resources, and understanding of the current Real Estate Market.
Full Service Real Estate Brokerage with flexible commission rates and 32 Years experience in our parish neighborhoods.
713-825-8015www.larrymartinrealtor.com
For a Free Home Evaluation go to www.pricevalue.info
LawnCare
www.AustinLandscaping.net
Average mow price in your area is only $30.00 for weekly and $35.00 for biweekly service!
WHY CHOOSE OUR SERVICES?
We offer online billing and accept all credit cards
We have balanced billing main-tenance plans for carefree auto-mated service
We customize each maintenance plan to match the clients budget and goals
Our landscape designs are hardy, lush, and professional and our pricing is competitive
Our managers are native, degreed & experienced with local landscapes
713.778.1476
2007 Recipient of Mayoral Honorable Mention Award, Keep Houston Beautiful
incredible renovationsOn Time On Budget…Guaranteed!
Design - Build - Remodel
Before
After
Follow us!
(713) 532-2526 - 5814 WINSOME LANE - WWW.INCREDIBLERENOVATIONS.COM
ONE STOP SHOP:Structural Engineer, Architectural Designer,
Interior Decorator on staffDEPENDABLE:
On time On Budget…Guaranteed!ACCOMPLISHED:
Golden Hammer Award2012 Texas Remodeler of the Year
EXPERIENCED:Over 35 years designing & building homes
As Thanksgiving approaches, we can be thankful to live in the United States—a nation where hard work can bring success. If you’re successful, you know how much work it takes to achieve and maintain it. But if you’re like me, you know something else. There is some part of your success that you can’t ascribe to your own work. Maybe you were born into a great family and had an advantageous upbringing. Maybe you connected with the right mentor early in your career, or were simply at the right place at the right time during a critical point in life. To you, these were free lunches. And when you realize how blessed you were in receiving them, you may want to return the favor and help someone else receive one of their own. Here are a few ideas:
Make a special gift to your faith community Leave a scholarship bequest to your alma mater Write a check to the local food bank Mentor students at an inner-city high school Take a mission trip to build homes in a hurricane-wracked nation
The possibilities are endless. What they have in common is that you’re giving without expecting to get something in return. You’re squaring a circle with the times in your life when the situation was reversed. Such philanthropy helps you live with a sense of gratitude, which we believe is very important in the life of a financially successful family. If you would like to discuss your family’s philanthropy, or other financial issues, further, please contact PARTNERSINWEALTH President (and Braeswood Place homeowner) Jim Waters, CFP®, at 713.964.4028 or [email protected].
Paying for Free Lunches
Some things are better left to the professionals.
Lorian WelshCLHMS, SRES, CSP
AREA SPECIALISTREALTOR ASSOCIATE® - Circle of Excellence
713.558.1919 [email protected]
While our sales and the quality of our listings have contributed to the worldwide renown of
our name, we are best known for our exceptional service. Who we are and how we represent
our clients are constants that achieve results for our sellers, regardless of the listing price.
Let me show you the difference a professional Realtor® can make!
Shutters • Draperies • BlindsCustom Window Coverings
Mention this ad for 30% off your purchase
713-592-0224Your Braes Heights neighbor Lynne LorenzFREE In-Home Consultation & Estimates
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Meeting the needs of your family! Trafton is a small private Pre-K(4) – 8th grade neighborhood school.
Mark your calendar to learn more…
******* PROSPECTIVE PARENT COFFEES W/
Q & A, PRE K-4TH, 8:30 AM
Thursday, November 13, 2014 Thursday, January 29, 2015
******* 5TH- 8TH GRADES 8:30 AM
Thursday, November 6, 2014 Thursday, January 22, 2015
******* Small Class Sizes ● Nurturing Environment Honors & On- Level Curriculum ● Sports ● Enrichments ●
Extended day offered until 6:00 pm
Trafton Academy Educating Minds, Building Character for Life
E d u c a t i n g M i n d s … B u i l d i n g C h a r a c t e r f o r L i f e
4711 McDermed ● Houston, TX 77035 ● [email protected] ● www.trafton.org
4711 McDermed, Houston, TX 77035 ● [email protected] ● Trafton.org
Trafton Academy
● Educating Minds…Building Character for Life
Questions? Interest in touring or scheduling a shadow day for your child, please call or email.
Admissions office: 713.723.5888 ● [email protected]
4711 McDermed, Houston, TX 77035 ● Trafton.org
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BRAESWOOD PLACE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION www.braeswoodplace.org
OFFICERS President Linda Barcot 832-217-8581 [email protected] V. Pres. East Jack Stopnicki 713-299-5556 [email protected] V. Pres. Central Bill Blackwood 713-668-1535 [email protected] V. Pres. West Nicole Shah 713-839-0595 [email protected] Treasurer Mary Beshears 832-287-5216 [email protected] Secretary Stephen Ostrow 713-661-9346 [email protected] DIRECTORS Director Area # 1 Steve Sheaffer 281-460-5010 [email protected] Director Area # 2 Todd Nunnally 713-664-7332 [email protected] Director Area # 3 Drake Terrell 713-557-6000 [email protected] Director Area # 4 Jeff McNear 713-665-7518 [email protected] Director Area # 5 Bob Eby 713-664-6706 [email protected] Director Area # 6 Lundin Schneider 713-662-2674 [email protected] Director Area # 7 Catherine Hanslik 713-898-0992 [email protected] Director Area # 8 David & Rui Roberts 713-665-6979 [email protected] Director Area # 9 Jerry McClain 713-203-6934 [email protected] Director Area # 10 Grant Harpold 713-665-7519 [email protected] Director Area # 11 Roger White 832-373-8798 [email protected] Director Area # 12 Joanne Eisenberger 281-974-5089 [email protected] COMMITTEE CHAIRS Appearance/Street Recon Jack Stopnicki 713-299-5556 [email protected] Board Nominations Catherine Hanslik 713-898-0992 [email protected] Brays Bayou Assoc. Billy Pilgrim 713-661-6513 [email protected] Building Plan Review David Sears 713-627-9690 [email protected] Campus Park Bill Blackwood 713-668-1535 [email protected] Deed Restrictions Elke Groomer 713-666-0565 [email protected] Fogging Chris Ramas 713-665-6254 [email protected] Fourth of July Chair POSITION OPEN-NEED VOLUNTEER! Garden Club Co-Pres Kathy Jenkins 713-661-9939 [email protected] Janet Maxian 713-668-4645 [email protected] Garden of the Month Jackie Addington 832-767-5667 [email protected] Karl Young Park Jarret Reeves 281-685-6666 [email protected] Membership Rob Lee 713-840-4762 [email protected] Moms’ Club Jody Martin 713-594-9943 [email protected] National Night Out Kathleen Fenoy 281-501-8586 [email protected] Co-Chairs Nicole Shah 713-839-0595 [email protected] Recycling Susie Loredo 713-588-1160 [email protected] Security Janet Maxian 713-668-4645 [email protected] Sentinel Editor Alison Bell 713-504-4610 [email protected] Super Neighborhood Jim Waters [email protected] Traffic Committee Nicole Shah 713-839-0595 [email protected] BPHA OFFICE Brenda Blackwood 713-666-7248 [email protected] Hours: M, W, F: 10-2 4010 Blue Bonnet, Suite 112, Houston, TX 77025
BRAESWOOD PLACE It’s a Great Place to Live
MEMBERSHIP IN BPHA
The Homeowners Association of Braeswood Place collects annual dues of $75. Constable Patrol membership is $285 per year for 24/7 coverage. New and established residents are encouraged to contact the BPHA Office for more information about becoming a member in the Homeowners Association and the Constable Patrol Program.
[email protected] 713-666-7248
JOIN ONLINE: www.braeswoodplace.org
The Sentinel is published monthly by BPHA, P.O. Box 20486, Houston, TX 77225, for the residents of Ayrshire, Braes Heights, Braes Oaks, Braes Terrace, Braes Manor, Emerald Forest, and Southern Oaks subdivisions. Our Editor is Alison Bell. The deadline for articles and advertisements to be included in the DECEMBER issue of the Sentinel will be Monday, November 17. Submit articles, Good Neighbor stories, compliments, criticisms, questions or suggestions to: [email protected]. The Sentinel is typically delivered on the first weekend of the month. Contact your Area Director if you do not receive it.
WELCOME TO BRAESWOOD PLACE!!!
Recently moved into our neighborhood? We are
happy to deliver a Welcome Brochure to you with
information about our Association and Constable
Patrol Program and an area map with the name of
your Area Director. Contact the BPHA Office at
713-666-7248 or [email protected] and
provide your name, address and phone number. Be
sure to visit our website at
www.braeswoodplace.org.
HELPFUL NUMBERS City of Houston Poison Control Hotline 713-247-1000 1-800-764-7661 Council Rep, Dist C-Ellen Cohen State Rep-Sarah Davis (Residents North of Bayou) 713-521-4474 832-393-3004 State Sen-Joan Huffman Council Rep, Dist K-Larry Green 713-662-3821 (Residents South of Bayou) Texas Fish/Wildlife (for birds) 832-393-3016 713-876-1520 County Commiss-El Franco Lee Street Light/Stop Sign Repair 713-662-3821 713-207-2222 Electricity-CenterPoint Energy Stop Sign Repair 713-207-2222 713-837-0311 Gas-CenterPoint Energy Trash Collection 713-659-2111 713-837-0311 Graffiti Hotline U.S. Rep-John Culberson 713-247-1576 713-682-8828 Harris County Mosquito Control U.S. Rep-Ted Poe (e of BS, S of BB) 713-440-4800 713-681-8763 Houston Police-Beechnut Water & Sewer Repair 713-314-3900 713-837-0311
