We Want to Hear From You!

This is a blog for the community, by the community! Submit writings, opinion columns, and/or pics of anything you think is important to share with fellow Denver Harbor residents! All submitted things will be given the credit of the person who wrote or sent in the work. Email us @ ourdhstreets@gmail.com.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

1st Official One-Year Anniversary Protest for Gaza

from houstonindymedia.org-

A protest to mark the one year anniversary of the Israeli war on the people of Gaza.

Date:
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Time:
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Location:
The Galleria
Street:
Corner of Post Oak & Westheimer
City/Town:
Houston, TX

From Wikipedia:The Gaza War—known as Operation Cast Lead by the Israel Defence Forces and the Gaza massacre in the Arab world, was a three-week military conflict between Israel and Hamas that took place in the Gaza Strip and southern Israel during the winter of 2008–2009.

On 18 December Hamas declared the end of a six-month ceasefire with Israel and on 24 December began an intensification of rocket fire towards the country's towns.[19] On 27 December Israel began a wave of airstrikes[20] on the Gaza Strip with the stated aim of stopping the rocket attacks from and arms smuggling into the territory. Israeli forces attacked military targets, police stations and government buildings. There was also significant damage to civilian buildings. Hamas further intensified its rocket and mortar attacks against Israel, hitting civilian targets throughout the conflict and reaching major Israeli cities Beersheba and Ashdod for the first time. An Israeli ground invasion began on January 3, 2009. The war ended on January 18, when Israel first declared a unilateral ceasefire, followed by Hamas' announcing a one-week ceasefire twelve hours later. Israel completed its withdrawal on January 21.

Between 1,166 and 1,417 Palestinians and 13 Israelis were killed. More than 400,000 Gazans were left without running water, while 4,000 homes were destroyed or badly damaged, leaving tens of thousands of people homeless; 80 government buildings were hit.

A UN mission headed by Judge Richard Goldstone was established in April 2009 and produced a report in September 2009, accusing both Palestinian militants and Israeli Defence Forces of war crimes and possible crimes against humanity, and recommending bringing those responsible to justice.[31] In October 2009 the UN Human Rights Council endorsed the report by 25 votes for, 6 against and 16 abstentions/failures to vote.

Check out this video from one of the ongoing protests last year:

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Service center to hosts stroke education class

From a press release:

CFHED, in conjunction with the Harris County Area Agency on Aging Elderly & Caregiver Support Services presents Stroke Education.

This 4-hour class differentiates the various types of strokes, presents signs/symptoms of stroke, discusses TIA’s, reviews risk factors for heart disease & stroke – ones which can and cannot be changed, prevention, effects of stroke, communication & eating problems, physical disabilities resulting from stroke, and provides individual practice in body mechanics, transfers, and self-help through use of CFHED’s training DVD.

Address:
Third Ward Multi Service Center
3611 Ennis Street
Houston, Texas 77004
Classroom located in the Auditorium)

Date:
Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Time:
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Call for reservation by January 18:
The toll free number is 1-877-747-1542.

Admission:
Free to registered participants

Local number: 281-286-4839

It is recommended that you wear rubber-soled shoes and dress comfortably for classroom practice. Emphasis is on safety, independence and quality of life. Snacks will be provided. Bring your lunch, if you wish. Certificates issued upon completion of course, and free DVD package, “The Practical Caregiver” to first 50 attendees.

Partially funded by the Texas Department on Aging and Disability Services & HCAAA.

Friday, November 20, 2009

School To Prison Pipeline- Community Event & Discussion

You know those meetings that you hear about where the actual community residents come together and discuss their community- the state that it's in, the concerns they have, the possible reasons for the problems, and then the beginning of plans for a resolution?? That's what this is.
A panel and then open discussion event taking place in 3rd Ward - but affects all Houstonians, all Texans, and all inhabitants of this thing called America.
If you want to come listen, learn, put in your 2 cents, and get some balance, please make your way over the S.H.A.P.E. Community Center on Live Oak this weekend.
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From their posting:

Krystal Muhammad—CR-Houston Moderator
Tarsha Jackson—Navigating the Pipeline
Reginald Gordon—Youth and the Prison Industrial Complex
Gloria Rubac—Prison Industrial Complex and Abolition

The School to Prison Pipeline--Some Sobering Statistics

Texas spends 2.3 times more per prisoner compared to what the state spends on each public school student.

In Texas, there were 169,460 juvenile arrests in 2007.

Of the 8,247 youths in residential placement in Texas in 2006:
1,980 (24.0 percent) were White, non-Latino.
2,751 (33.4 percent) were Black, non-Latino.
3,486 (42.3 percent) were Latino.

There were 150 youths under age 18 incarcerated in adult correctional facilities in Texas in 2007.

Presentations to be followed by a strategy meeting for advancing the campaign against the School to Prison Pipeline in Houston/Harris County.

Saturday November 21st
2:00 pm
S.H.A.P.E. Community Center
3815 Live Oak

For more information please call 713-261-3558

For the kids!
Bring your kids to help create the World Without Walls Participatory Mural/Banner.

Young and old are invited to take part.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

I-10 Ramp from IH-45 North Closed!!

After leaving work yesterday afternoon, I decided to take a different route home from work besides my regular 15min stagger down Kirby Drive to get to Allen Parkway from San Felipe.
I took San Felipe down to Shepard and turned towards Allen Parkway through that light- and saved myself about 10 minutes of driving time. That was, until I got onto the on ramp for IH-45N to see a giant sign that notified me that the on ramp I take to get to Denver Harbor (I-10 East) was closed. The detour led you up 45N till N.Main Street. It ended up taking me an hour to get home. So, just a heads up for those of you trying to get to the neighborhoods. It's hard to tell if it's been opened since yesterday. Here is a little chart you can follow along:
Freeway Speed

Location IH-45 North Southbound from Crosstimbers to IH-10 Katy
Distance 2.50 miles
Travel Time 2 minutes 32 seconds
Avg Speed 59 MPH
Data Age 3:17:48 PM
Other Info Live Speed Chart

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Festival to Celebrate our East End this Weekend!


I used to sit at Brasils Coffee Shop and think, "Man..I really wish there was a place this great to hang out closer to my side of town." Well, through my own manifestations (i'm convinced! ha.) and an amazing couple, came Bohemeos Music/Art/Coffee.
This cafe/music/art stop had me at hello & i'm happy to have the opportunity to partake in their now 2nd Annual East End Arts Festival - aimed at bringing community from all over Houston to recognize the flowers blooming on the East End of town.
The festival is being made possible by artists, poets, vendors, and musicians dedicated to what the festival stands for, and more importantly, what Bohemeos stands for.
So, this weekend- one day only- come on over to Bohemeos Music/Art/Coffee and take in the scene!

The full line up is below- Order some food, drinks, find a stage you like, and enjoy!!!!

p.s. The poetry hour is sure to give you the warm fuzzies & the art on the wall right now are the passionate works of the Tres Chingonas - Lizbeth Ortiz, Julie Zarate, and Stephanie Guajardo!

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

This East End Cultural Arts Festival is all about community, so bring the family & bring the neighbors. There will be artists, vendors, musicians and performers. Help support local talent and culture, and come see a whole day of original creativity.
Since we have such a large group of performers, we're going to mix it up and actually do this schedule style:

Indoor stage
12 pm Indie short films
1 pm Poetry Power Hour
2 pm Comedy hour
3 pm Theater with Ruby Nelda Perez

4 pm Rozz Zamorano and the Z Jazz Trio

5 pm Pistoleros de Texas

Outdoor Stage

1:30 pm Bella Ballet Children Ballet
2:30 pm Irish Dance Co.
3:30 pm Flamenco "Gitanarias"
4:30 pm Danza Azteca "Teokalli"
5:30 pm Los Guerreros de La Musica

Friday, October 23, 2009

Green Fest this Saturday @ The Last Organic Outpost!

The Emile St. Community Garden/ The Last Organic Outpost was one of the first inspirations for the Original Jardin- our sister garden site @ www.originaljardin.blogger.com- and they are doing it really big this weekend. If you have the time (or can make the time) come out and enjoy the amazing Houston weather we are having and learn about where you belong/exist in this Green World.

Details:
Last Organic Outpost & KPFT will be hosting an event on Saturday, Oct. 24th at Emile Garden in the 5th ward. This festival is focused on to promoting green living throughout the city of Houston. We will be having demonstrations, presentations, and speakers focused on how live a more sustainable lifestyle. Music- 144 Elite, Cabo, Tom Tranchilla and Buddy Allen, DJ Sunonwater, Jerome Vielman, and many more.

We will have a Raffle and Silent Auction hosted by Houston Green Scene. There will be three stages for entertainment and educational activities! There will also be lots of family fun including free petting zoo, face painting, scavenger hunt, children’s fashion show by Sama Baby, interactive puppet show with Super Happy Funland, storytelling, NIA for tots and other small children, Sack races, art stations, balloon art, gardening activities and many more!

Green Organization and Business Participating: Houston Green scene, Houston Electric Cars, Green Cleaning products, Houston Urban Farm Belt Coalition, The Young and the Restless (Children’s resale), Massage in the garden sponsored by Dentist- Houston’s Premier Green Dental Office, Joe and Pat Greer

This event will also be promoting the efforts of 350.org INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLIMATE ACTION. Check out the www.350.org for more information.

Food Provided by Radical Eats and Ruggles Green.
Yoga by Jennyoga and Devanand,
Recycling made possible by Not Trash.Houston
Featured local artist, Charles Washington will be demonstrating making art out of Recycled Material along with other works of Garden Art.
AND MUCH MUCH MORE!!!

Here are some of the demonstrations and presentations. (A schedule will be posted shortly):
• How to build a Composting Bin demonstration by Brittani Flowers of NotTrash.Houston
• How to make your own Natural, non-toxic cleaning products demonstration by Mona Metzger of Urban Green Clean
• Electric Car Showcase by Houston Electric Cars
• Environmental Art Workshop by Artist Charles Washington
• Balloon animals for kids with bio-degradable balloons by The Bug Man
• Featuring Garden Art by Recycle Artist Phil Waldrop
• Recycled Structures proudly constructed by Green Construction Company, Bright Side Construction
• Special performance by poet, performance artist and author of /Haiku2u:101 select poems on love, trial, triumph and trust /Jerome Vielman
• Special Appearance by Amanda Tullos (unsure of spelling) of Phoenix Connection Recycled Home Builder Dan Phillips
• Interactive garden games provided by United Wellness Center and Last Organic Outpost

Remember to pick-up your Holiday Green Guide featuring farm fresh recipes from the Last Organic Outpost compliments of Houston Green Scene

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Cafe Flores Bringing Music, Poetry, & Comedy to Houston's East End

Come out and enjoy a night of Poetry, Live Music, and Comedy with a plate of dinner!

Friday July 24th & Saturday July 25th, Cafe Flores will host performances by Comedian Al B, Poet Ricardo Zavala, Comedian Jerry Carrillo, Guitarist Daniel "Red", Guitarist Ellias Gomez, Guitarist Federico Herrera, Singer Cynthia Martinez, and Singer Daisy Rodriguez. All local acts that have joined together to bring all these art forms under one roof. OurDHStreets caught up with Poet Ricardo Zavala who is gearing up for the show and he shared (that) "It is great to be a part of a new group of local artists who are putting on a show which combines comedy, poetry, music, singing with a great dinner! Expressions are evenings of performances which will cool down your soul this summer!"
Extra Info-
  • Dinner includes grilled chicken in tequila gravy with mashed-potatoes, veggies and tea.
  • Please RSVP by 12Noon on 7/23/09 at jerry_vision12@hotmail.com or call 713-928-5244! There is limited seating so please rsvp as soon as you can!
  • $12.50 per person
Doors open with a musical reception from 6-7pm. Dinner will only be served from 7-8pm.
This is the place to be for a 1st date, anniversary, or night out with friends. Please come out and support your local Houston Artists.


Date: Friday, July 24th & Saturday, July 25th
Time: 6:00pm - 11:00pm
Location: Cafe Flores
Street: 6606 Lawndale
City/Town: Houston, TX
Telephone: 713-928-5244

Friday, June 26, 2009

OurDHStreets Remembers Michael Jackson


Lalo Alcaraz
The world is feeling the loss of Michael Jackson today as news of his sudden death reaches throughout the world. And, although we are a little neighborhood in a big city, I know many Denver Harbor residence are feeling it too. If you say you don't like MJ, you don't know MJ's work. And if you don't know MJ's work, get with the program.
He was one of a kind- amazingly talented & a great spirit despite of so much negativity around him at times. I am personally thankful for having the opportunity to experience his music.

~Rest In Peace Michael~
OurDHStreets already miss you.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Excuse the Hiatus

I know it's been a while since this website was updated, and for those of you who have been asking, I wanted to give you a bit of insight.
This project started with an outline that showed the ever endless possibilities of opening up a space for the public to express, share, learn. etc. & since the first post came to be, we (writers and followers) have been paying special attention to what you, the public, like to/want to discuss/support/read about.
So, with that new knowledge, we felt we had to take a step back and re-analyze our audience, our themes, and the direction that we hope this blog goes into in the coming months.
Please excuse the hiatus & we will be back very soon to open new doors of discussion, exploration, and, what we foresee, as a stronger connection to what is going down on Our DH Streets.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

BREAKING NEWS: Firefighters Battling 3- Alarm Fire Near McReynolds Middle School

some info from abc13.com-
Firefighters are on the scene of a three-alarm warehouse fire in east Houston.

[WATCH LIVE: Launch streaming SkyEye13 video]

The fire broke out just before 6am on Old Clinton Road at Shotwell- just behind McReynolds Middle School. There are reports that a palate outside the warehouse caught fire and flames quickly spread into the structure.

The warehouse is apparently in an industrial warehouse area and not causing any problems for any residents. There were reports that a couple of the walls have collapsed. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. And there are no reports of any injuries.

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

We hope to have more info on the cause of this fire and to find out what exactly is burning, so we can have a better idea about how it might affect Denver Harbor & 5th Ward residents.

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Summer Funnin'


For most kids, May 28th will mark the end of the school year and the beginning of Summer 2009. It's a time for them to explore their surroundings, have fun, and nourish their minds with activities that have nothing to do with schooling. For parents, it's a time to explore hobbies, stop to take in the outdoor weather, and where one must do their best to keep their kid out of trouble and entertained. So, as many adults are trying to figure out what to do with the kiddos and themselves, I suggest to look little further than what the Houston Parks & Recreation Department has in place for this Summer at Selena Perez- Denver Harbor Park. As this is the only park in DH with a Community Center, there will be a good amount of going ons for children, adults, and Seniors. Here is a breakdown.

2009 Summer Enrichment Program- Keep your child active every day with arts & crafts, games, special events/entertainment, sports and water fun by registering him or her for this program.
  • Ages: 6- 13
  • Registration: April 18th until filled - Registration is required at Community Center During Normal Business Hours
  • Camp Dates: June 1st - August 7th (Monday thru Friday only)
  • Time: 8:00am - 6:00pm
  • Fee: $30 per week per child (Some Participants May Qualify for Exemption)
  • Information: For all who register, there will be an 'Overview/Orientation given at the Denver Harbor Community Center on Wednesday, May 20th, 2009 @ 6:30pm
    Call 713-675-2151 for more info & if you have questions.
Pool Supervisors, Head Lifeguards, and Lifeguard Jobs - Provide lifeguarding duty at the Denver Harbor Park Pool.
  • Requirements: 16 years of age or older, must pass American Red Cross Lifeguard Training course, Must pass drug test and criminal history background check
  • Starting Salary: $9.50 hourly
  • Employment Period: May 16th, 2009 to September 7, 2009
  • Location: Aquatics Office- 6402 Market St, Houston, Tx 77020 (Community Center)
  • Info: 713-670-5501 Mon- Fri 9am- 5pm
Saturday Open Gymnasium- Enjoy open and free basketball, volleyball, or badminton @ Denver Harbor Community Center
  • Ages: All
  • Registration: None Required
  • Fee: FREE
  • Program Dates: Year round every Saturday
  • Time: 10am - 2pm
  • More Info: 713-675-2151
Adult Step Aerobics- Step Aerobics is a great cardiovascular workout and classes are available for all levels for intense to simple depending on the community center and instructor.
  • Ages: 18 and up
  • Registration: Ongoing
  • Fee: FREE
  • Program Dates: Year Round
  • Times: M/W/Th 6pm- 7pm
    Fri 1pm- 2pm
  • Info: 713-675-2151
Community Swimming Pool- Public pools will be open in 2 phases. During Phase I, scheduled for May 23rd, 20 pools will open during the weekend only. During Phase II, scheduled for June 6th, an additional 17 pools will open. From June 15th through August 14 HPARD (Houston Parks and Recreation Department) will operate 37 municipal pools on a Tuesday through Sunday schedule from 1pm - 8pm. All public pools will be closed Mondays throughout Summer.
  • More Info: 713-673-7140
Senior Program- This program provides a wide variety of recreation and leisure activities for seniors. Activities include specialty and creative crafts, fitness, walking clubs, cultural events, senior forums, field trips, and special events.
  • Ages: 55 years and older
  • Fee: FREE unless otherwise indicated
  • Times: Various by Community Center
  • Info: 713-675-2151

Aztec- Mexica Dance/ Danza- Learn the movements of the ancient Mexica through the living, evolving, cultural tradition of dance/danza filled with artistic, spiritual, and warrior tradition of the Pre-Columbian Aztecs and their post-conquest descendants. Open practice.
  • Ages- all
  • Fee: FREE
  • When: every Thursday, 6:30pm, next to DH Pool (unless more room needed)
  • Needs: Comfortable clothes to move in - Ladies please wear a skirt
  • Info: ourdhstreets@gmail.com

Park Volunteer Program- several programs available for volunteers of all ages to assist in a variety events and activities from coaching youth sports to cleanup projects in neighborhood parks. Ages and Hours vary depending on which volunteer program one chooses to partake in. Call DH Community Center for more info on all of these opportunities at 713-675-2151.

There are sure to be more things coming through DH Park and the other parks and areas surrounding, so keep a look out and come take part in these great free activities to keep you active and connected to your communidad.
Find out more @ www.houstonparks.org

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Immune to the Flu

Many Houstonians were rushing to local Walgreens and CVS stores to try to get their hands on face masks, gloves, and immunity pills last week due to the Swine Flu scare. My parents were no exception and I felt the fear everywhere I went- especially because I work near the Medical Center and the Galleria area, where news reports pinpointed the first U.S. death associated with this virus. However, I decided to remain calm, not think about Outbreak or Quarantine, and just take care of myself as if I was guarding against any type of flu that might come my way (including the H1N1 strain of influenza)- by building immunity.
You don't have to spend big amounts of money or pump yourself full of meds or chemicals for your body to become stronger. Actually, the best way to build immunity is by paying attention to what you put in your body - by way of food & liquids.
So, as this was not the first, nor will it be the last, time we are faced with a fast spreading flu, I offer knowledge brought to me through friends that have been on the Natural/Organic road for a long time now ~ mixed with a little eHow research info on how to build up your immunity (and your families') to guard against the possibility of flu and any other kind of body ailment for that matter.
  1. Vitamin C
    Get plenty of natural vitamin C. This is probably the most well-known way to help boost your natural immunity. Supplements, such as vitamins, are fine but the best way to get vitamin C is to get it through pure foods. Oranges, grapefruits and tomatoes are just three examples of foods you can eat everyday in order to build up your natural immunity.

  2. Veggies!!
    Eat a good amount of fresh vegetables and beans on a daily basis. You may be surprised to learn that foods like broccoli, spinach and kidney beans are full of antioxidants. Over time, these will help you protect and strengthen your immune system. Vegetable juices ("You could have had a V-8!") are a very easy and tasty way to get your daily amount of vegetables.

  3. Agua is good!!!
    Drink at least 8 to 10 eight-ounce glasses of water every day. This can serve two purposes. Water will help to remove toxins and "junk" from your system. It will also carry out any excess vitamins you have ingested during your new diet. Both of these are helpful when trying to build up your natural immunity.

  4. Rest.
    Try to sleep well every night. Too many individuals are unaware at how important sleep is to their daily lives. Sleeping 8 hours every night can help to prevent weight gain, reduce stress and even keep you from getting sick.

  5. Exercise on the daily.
    When you exercise, you help your body to absorb the vitamins and nutrients you consume. Exercise by itself is another way that you can strengthen your immune system. This doesn't mean that you have to hit the gym every day. Walking for 30 to 60 consecutive minutes is all of the exercise you need in order to build natural immunity.

  6. Get the bad stuff out.
    Know which foods and drinks you should give up. Caffeine and sugar are two things that can actually remove vitamins and minerals from your body, thus weakening your immune system. Fast and processed foods won't do your immune system any good, either. Alcohol will also break down nutrients and your immune system. Basically, you should use common sense when cutting foods out of your diet.

It might be alot to do at first, but start with one and add on as you get a good rhythm with the one you are working on. Building you immunity means taking your body's balance to a whole new level. And the next time you are being warned about a 'pandemic outbreak', you'll feel more secure about yourself and your family's ability to not get sick.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Flooded Ditches

DH is notorious for having big, deep ditches that are easy to get stuck in. Amid all the complaining about how treacherous the ditches were from out of neighborhood visitors, I usually just smiled and said "Yeah. They may not be the nicest to look at, but at least it never floods here." So, I was pretty surprised to find that, although it was only about 2 hours of heavy steady rain last Friday, my ditches were flooded & much of the sidewalk leading to my house too. I wonder if it could have anything to do with the street expansions. Were new flood areas the trade off for wider streets, or is there another culprit I am missing?
For the record, I had to travel down Westhiemer to get home from work that day and it is NOT ready for any real raining to take place. I saw manholes fly up from flooding at intersections and San Jacinto Street looked more like San Jacinto River!

Monday, April 13, 2009

Tomorrow, our seeds will grow...


...All we need is dedication. ~ Lauryn Hill

To continue on with the Eco-Friendly mindset that this past Earth Day set, OurDHStreets is taking this opportunity to introduce you to our Original Jardin series.
A small group of local activists have joined knowledge, time, and efforts to create a garden that features foods that are/were indigenous to the Mexica People (The 7 Warriors) and have opened the gates to us in an effort to share & trade information that they are learning and to promote backyard organic gardening to all gente.
In conjunction, OurDHStreets will be giving you updates through interviews, vids, and pictures on the progress of the garden & connect it to bigger eco/political-conscious efforts in Houston. Enjoy!

Please feel free to ask questions, leave comments, &/or advice for our learning gardeners.
WHY AN ORIGINAL JARDIN?
Several reasons. We've all seen what is happening in the grocery stores due to the current economy. Prices are going up and the quality of the produce available is going down. We are paying more for less and with many people now living under the constant pressure that they might lose their jobs..Well, it just adds more anxiety to our daily lives. We have land that is good to plant on and the reasons why not to ran out. The time has come to start planting. Not relying on 'the man' for our basic needs will get us to a more secure place. Having knowledge about the land and how plants grow will ensure that if/when prices inflate even more, we will still have access to foods we use regularly and conveniently out of our yards. Health-wise, if you are part of the process of creating it, you know what is inside of it. No additives, chemicals, non-pronounceables.
WHY THE 7 WARRIORS?
The 7 Warrior plants were the major crops of the Mexica (Pre-Spanish Inhabitants of Aztlan). The incredible thing about these foods is that they grow well together; Meaning, the environment created by each one directly and healthily affects the other. This makes them easy to grow with proper care. The 3 sister crops (corn, beans, squash) provide the necessary vitamins and nutrients to sustain the human body and the remaining 4 crops add in any missing elements. This makes for a healthy and more eco-friendly environment all in all- for yourself and the Earth.
WHAT PHASE IS THE ORIGINAL JARDIN IN NOW & WHAT'S NEXT?
The jardin came to be in a volunteered backyard that was not being used and was covered in high sprays of grass - seriously, the shortest activist was about a foot away from not being able to see anything back there! On March 7th, the yard was mowed and the top layer of grass was removed. Since then, the grass was mowed and the top layer removed, the soil was flipped and roots taken out, rows created, and maize planted. Last week marked about a month & a half since the project began and small developing maize leaves have begun to sprout in all but one row- that has been reserved for beans.
For now, we are watering and watching the maize take root & develop strong stems and as that develops we will be moving into the bean & squash phase of the project. Right now the jardin is semi-private, but as the crops and food manifest, so will our ability to reach out to the community to partake in the care and the amazing food that the jardin will provide.

Check back to watch the progress on the Original Jardin in DH- Houston & to find knowledge for starting your own organic garden.


Friday, April 3, 2009

No More Tire Tracks on the Grass

In January, the Houston City Council responded to an outcry they say they've received from neighborhood activists, making it illegal to park cars in your yard. However, the City did not budget what it would cost to implement this ban and it seems it will fall into the hands of the neighborhoods & their Civic Clubs to handle.
If Denver Harbor residents want to be part of this crackdown on parked cars, they must "opt in" to the ban by applying to the Department of Planning & Development. The current application requires civic clubs to pay for first-class mailings to every property owner that would fall under the parking ban. This issue concerns me.
First, as has already been the commentary of many politicos, is that it is unfair to less wealthy neighborhoods to have to pay for postage, envelopes, and signs to notify the neighborhood of the changes. For example, Sharpstown, has more than 6,800 homes. Informing all the owners through a first-class mailing would cost at least $3,000. But, to take it further, my thought is that Denver Harbor falls under the 'less wealthy' neighborhood category, and the little money our Civic Club is able to muster with the little representation we get from the City Council*, should be fused to focus on things that are more troubling in our area. How about putting that money toward after sc
hool programs or into our area schools? It is disturbing to myself to think that thousands of dollars worth of neighborhood dues could be spent to eliminate cars being parked on our private yard property, when things like the dropout rate, teenage pregnancy stats, continued black/brown violence, and poor education standards remain the same or grow here.
I am all for keeping our streets, yards, and homes clean, but I'm not for investing money into a problem that is mediocre in comparison to other issues that we could face and fix for the future betterment of our gente and our barrio. |
In truth, I have yet to hear what the Denver Harbor Civic Club is saying about their status on this ban, but as I am concerned & if you would also like to know, our Civic Club meets
the first Tuesday of every month at 6:45pm in the Senior's Center at Denver Harbor Selena Quintanilla-Perez Park (6402 Market Street Houston, TX 77020). Meetings are open to the public to come listen & to voice your opinions.
Also, If you have any questions regarding neighborhood streets, roads, policing, trash pickup, traffic enforcement, the fire station, the library, the parks, or other concerns, please feel free to e-mail the President of the Denver Harbor Civic Club - Mrs. Anna Gonzales - president@dhcc.ws.

Sites of Interest/Data for blog from:
Denver Harbor Civic Club
Chron.com article- Nabbing Houston Yard Parkers will be Neighborhood Matter
City of Houston eGovernment Center

*due to Adrian Garcia being elected Sheriff, we currently have no City Council representative for Denver Harbor.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Cesar Chavez Parade & Celebration This Saturday


When I hear 'Cesar Chavez', I recall that he was the only frame of reference for so-called Hispanic pride that was offered me in middle or high school. He fought for laborers' rights to organize & unionize & while I don't agree (personally) with all his ideals, I can appreciate his lucha for those that toil & struggle; Especially now, where we are seeing so many lose their jobs due to poor $$ investing and spending by our government. With Dolores Huerta, he formed the United Farm Workers (UFW) movement, which continues his legacy today.
Houston's Cesar Chavez event will consist of a parade & celebration starting @ the Sellers Bros parking lot on Cesar Chavez & ending @ Hidalgo Park on Magnolia's Ave Q. This event mirrors many that will be going on throughout the Nation this weekend to commemorate Cesar's life. It's a great opportunity to make the presence of our gente known in this East End area- just by our partaking in the parade.

For more info on the Tejano Association for Historical Preservation, visit them here
For more info on Cesar & the work of UFW go to www.ufw.org

Si Se Puede!

P.S. Further your knowledge of original people that fought for rights on various fronts in the United States- A few names to note: Dolores Huerta, Assata Shakur, Corky Gonzalez, Emma Tenayuca, Leonard Peltier, Mumia Abu Jamal. Start there.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Our DH Streets Spotlights : Leann Gallardo

Full-Time Mom /Wife/DH Resident/ Founder of Celebrations R Us

It's hard to visit Leann's Celebrations R Us shop and not start to think of the coming Spring & Summer parties that her customizable items can be used for. Located not far from Scroggins Elementary in Denver Harbor, Leann carved out a work area out of the home she keeps with her husband & two sons. Creative ideas & being party-planning savvy, Leann meets with people by appointment to get them set up with custom invitations, party favors, & (if called for) a costumed character for their event. April will mark 1 year that Leann became her own boss & her business began establishing itself within the DH community. I felt very welcomed sitting down with Leann in her shop to discuss Celebrations R Us & how she thinks Denver Harbor residents can begin to reconnect & feel safer in their own streets.

D- Tell me about your business.
L-I do personalized invitations, party goods, mint books, candy bars & I am also in the costume entertainment business for all occasions; Meaning, we have costume characters that will come to your party and play games with kids, dance, give out prizes, organize for birthday cake singing, and provide a present to the birthday boy or girl.In all aspects of my business I try to budget out reasonably so that I can provide things at a good price because I'm aware of people's money situations.


D- What inspired you to start your own business & why in Denver Harbor?
L-My children. For their parties, I would rent character costumes and organize games and just seeing their faces after having such a great time really inspired me. Once I had my younger child, I was really driven to be closer to both of my sons. Plus, I wanted to create something that can turn into a family business.
I have always lived in DH, so it was easy and natural to start here. I also feel like people grow up here, leave, and then talk down about the neighborhood. But, if people stay and become invested in it, the community could be nicer or have the things they say they leave the neighborhood for.

D- What would you say is a specialty service that you provide compared to other places & which of your items is your favorite?
L- One of the great things about us is that you can get most of your party
items in one place. I provide packages set up in that way and offer discounts based on what you order together. Before going full time with the business, I would just do candy bar favors. So, they are my favorite because they leave alot of room to be creative and can be used in a variety of ways. Some people have come to me to do candy bars for fundraisers or as thank you's for their events, for example.

D- So, you grew up in DH. What can you say about the changes that have come with time here?
L- I used to walk from one side of the neighborhood to the other and feel safe because I felt like these were my streets. Everybody knew each others families. We'd have festivals in the parks here, people would come out, but the city don't do that anymore. It's not like it used to be. I feel that if we had similar events, the people would know each other more personally & feel safe again.

Leann plans to expand her costume character selection in the next months and hopes the Springtime weather & Summer get-togethers will help her business become more successful. She wants to see Denver Harbor residents pull together more and more as a community. I think Leann's energy and pride in our DH streets are the types of things that will cultivate amazing results for her & all the people she will come across through her hard work. If you have a special event coming up, do yourself a favor and check out:

Celebrations R Us
713-671-1149
www.myspace.com/leann_celebrations_r_us
celebrationsrus2008@yahoo.com


Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Telemundo Houston Health Fair on March 28


taken from - http://blogs.chron.com/eastend/

The free Telemundo Houston Health Fair will be held from 7:00 a.m. until noon on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at Tejano Center's Raul Yzaguirre School for Success 2950 Broadway, Houston, TX 77017.

The fair will offer free cholesterol and diabetes screening, mammograms, dental and eye exams, vaccinations, and information about the Texas Childrens Insurance Program (CHIPS). Harris County Hospital District, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas Childrens Hospital and many other medical institutions will be on hand to offer important free health information. Contact Virginia Salazar at 713-640-3704 for details.

Posted by Michael Golden at 06:16 PM

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Selena (Park) Forever



Realizing it had been a good few weeks since we’d had good enough weather to go out & enjoy the outdoors, I decided to take a walk around Selena Quintanilla-Perez Park, aka Denver Harbor Park yesterday. The place was packed with Little Leaguers practicing with their coaches, gente throwing around footballs & kicking around soccer balls, fruit/raspa vendors doing their thing, and babies to teens strolling around the various trails just making their rounds and taking in the energy giving Sun. I heard music bassing from passing cars & outdoor radios & watched all the familiar faces smiling & regenerating due to the beautiful day.


I took a seat under a city-provided covered table area & got to thinking about the essence of the park & about the Tejano star Selena, after who the park was re-named following her tragic & untimely death in 1995.


Selena oozed Tejanismo; from her perfect-fit & sequined outfits, her ‘Chola-esque’ makeup, to the Tex-Mex sound of her musica. She became a home grown idol to Mexican girls & all colored mujeres throughout the Nation due to her youth, energetic performances, strong voice, and the full figured body she wore so comfortably. Tejano music had a very male-centered history until Selena hit the scene in the 80’s and by 1987, the Tejano Music Awards named Selena Best Female Vocalist- an award she dominated for the next seven years. Many Houstonians I know can brightly recall having the opportunity to meet Selena at festivals in the early stages of her career & especially watching her do her thing at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo in February 1995- a performance that solidified her popularity by drawing about 65,000 fans to the infamous Astrodome- more than any performer that year.


March 31st, 2009 will mark 14 years since Selena passed & I can still remember hearing the news from my best friends mom after being picked up from McReynolds Middle School. Both me and my friend told her mom to quit jiving because April Fools Day was not till tomorrow, but once home watching the news coverage showing many teenage girls weeping in disbelief over the loss of their queen.


So, with all of that knowledge and all these memories, I reflected on how the City Council renamed Denver Harbor Park to commemorate & celebrate such an amazing & missed mujer & how beautiful it was to have a day in the park to reflect on life, great Tejano music, and the history, pride, and Tejanismo that oozes from Denver Harbor residents, like it did from Selena.

Statue in Corpus Christi of Selena

Find more on Selena @ her official site @ SelenaForever.com and find out more about Selena Quintanilla-Perez Park @ Selena Perez Community Center!


Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Para Las Mujeres / For the Women

Sisters, in my opinion, there is not enough dialogue between us - as women of color, as conscious women, as women who have become educated, built, suffered, survived, and experienced. I think this mostly has to do with the fact that our society is not set up in a way that gives women instant equality and space to express ourselves. It is really up to us to carve out spaces and events in order to help conversations & understanding happen. Many of us do not have close female friends because we are taught to distrust each other from the workplace to the home. I've heard many women talk about how another woman has betrayed them, used them, manipulated them, etc. and they have in turn, decided it's best to not interact on personal levels with the female sex to a large degree. Yet, in looking at where our lives and livelihoods are taking us- bringing us into a recession/depression, with growing hate crimes, with growing stress on us and our men due to joblessness & a lack of money, with kidnappings in our area, with the state of women who are being used and abused and made to feel hopeless- it is only right and necessary that we open ourselves up to building with our fellow women again. There is so much that we can accomplish as women who work hard, have created spaces inside ourselves for other women to come, have suffered, have survived, and have experienced whatever we have experienced. We all have something to bring to the table.


So, in that spirit, this coming weekend, there will be an event honoring International Women's Day here in Houston's East End. The event will be hosted by women featuring women about womenly things. But, yes, men..you are more than welcomed to attend!

I know the ladies who have come together since late last year to make this happen & I hope to see & meet many more sisters there.



Bohemeos is a great cafe/deli so come hungry & thirsty!
For more info/ complete schedule/and artist info:


Tuesday, February 24, 2009

DENVER HARBOR LITTLE LEAGUE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS!




from: chron.commons

DENVER HARBOR LITTLE LEAGUE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS!
Posted by JenCAN at 2/18/2009 1:21 PM CST



It is with great pride that Denver Harbor Little League announces to the community that 2009 is a very big year for its supporters. DHLL has been notified that it is the longest running charter in its district, 50 years, to service children and families of the Denver Harbor community. The fact that DHLL has had the opportunity to remain such a positive influence in the neighborhood is something that everyone, especially families living in Denver Harbor, can really be proud of!
Denver Harbor Little League Baseball has been a staple in the community since 1959, and it remains a strong organization that is thriving and growing. With this baseball season, the league will celebrate not only what it has accomplished in the past 50 years, but what the children and community can look forward to in the future. There have been so many great ballplayers that have found their roots in Denver Harbor Little League Baseball, and the friendships that have formed in DHLL have lasted a lifetime. DHLL wants that
The Denver Harbor Little League Board President, Genaro Cardenas, would like to make this year a homecoming for the league. He is inviting all of DHLL Baseball's former players, coaches, teammoms, and supporters to come and be involved not only with the league, but with the community that has been so important to those who grew up in Denver Harbor. Denver Harbor's families have pride in their community and it shows as each year the league welcomes players whose mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, and sometimes even grandmothers and grandfathers, played for the league. They bring their children back every year because they know that it is a positive and nurturing environment, and has been since 1959.
Denver Harbor Little League Baseball is currently registering boys and girls, ages 5 - 16, and sponsors for its 2009 season. For information about registration or sponsorship, you can contact President Genaro Cardenas at 713-775-8125 or VP Ariel Garza at 832-198-8998. Future postings concerning Opening Day activities and the parade on March 28, 2009 willl be listed!
Sign up details for kids & coaches are here! http://www.eteamz.com/DHLL/