Gabrielle (Gabby) Luevano, Administrative Assistant
The Memorial Management District is delighted to welcome Gabrielle (Gabby) Luevano to the role of Administrative Assistant. Gabby will assist the Memorial District's Executive Director, Pat Walters.
"I am excited to join the team and make a difference," Gabby said.
Gabby holds a Bachelor of Arts from Houston Baptist University and previously worked in the education space. To the position, she brings administrative skills, such as graphic design and organization. She also studied video production techniques, which she hopes to utilize to produce content to showcase outdoor spaces and new developments.
"The Memorial District is a community full of excitement and potential," Gabby said. "I am proud to be part of it, and I am eager to learn new things."
Already, Gabby has gained a new understanding of land usage maps and drawing plans for traffic. She looks forward to using and expanding upon her Photoshop skills for landscape and road usage projects.
Before joining the team, Gabby was a fan of the Memorial District. She frequented restaurants and shops in the area and spent time in her favorite outdoor spots and coffee shops. She loves the holidays in the Memorial District because it is fun to see activities and decorations from season to season.
Happy Cinco de Mayo! The District offers an excellent choice of Mexican and Tex-Mex food, drinks, music, and excitement to mark the celebration.
Cowboy Surfer will have Pura Vida tequila Almeda Margaritas and Cowboy Pura Vida tequila Almeda Margaritas either frozen or on the rocks for $5 to celebrate Cinco de Mayo from 4 PM to 11 PM on Wednesday, May 5. Plus, get $4 Dos Equis or Corona Premier beers this day. Wednesdays are also Open Mic Night at Cowboy Surfer, so you can enjoy some local talent from 6 PM to 9 PM.
Pappasito’s Cantina has celebrations and meal specials for Cinco de Mayo, and you can even get a keepsake glass to take home after the occasion. Bring the whole family by for a delicious meal, and then take home this fun memento.
Churrasco’s Memorial City has a variety of take-home sets that help you re-create a Cinco de Mayo party from the comfort of your own home. For example, check out the Gaucho Grill Kit, including 4 petite filets or 4 churrasco steaks. Caliente Tex-Mex Restaurant and Wine Bar also has delicious meals for dine-in service and options for take-out meals to help you turn up the volume on your at-home Cinco de Mayo.
Over at CITYCENTRE, you can enjoy Cinco de Mayo activities like lawn games, tacos, to-go margaritas from Cyclone Anaya’s from 6:30 PM to 9 PM on Wednesday, May 5. There is no cover to enjoy this event, but of course, you will have to cover the cost of any food and drinks you might want.
Have a fun and safe Cinco de Mayo in the Memorial District!
Looking for the perfect post-workout snack that’s filling, healthy and delicious? Check out JuiceWell in CITYCENTRE. This family-owned business focuses on fresh, natural ingredients and delivering delicious plant-based foods to the community.
They offer a marble bar perfect for hanging out and unwinding with a green juice or smoothie bowl. Choose from an array of juices that can be customized to your liking and also comes in a reusable glass bottle. Smoothies are also available with add-ins of protein or different fruits.
You can also create your own smoothie bowl. Fill out a checklist located at the bar, choose from your base of fruits to the toppings, and add everything you like. Are you looking for a quick health boost? Choose from a variety of shots, including wheatgrass and “Get glowing.” Try the Pitaya Base Bowl, especially if you’re looking for a delicious and Instagrammable photo opportunity.
Want to try the trendy juice cleanse? JuiceWell offers beginner cleaners all the way to intensive pro cleansers. Pop in and schedule a nutrition session to see which cleanse would work best for you. Online ordering is available with same-day delivery if ordered before 2:00 p.m. the juices come in reusable glass bottles, which can be returned and have a dollar taken off your next purchase.
📸: JuiceWell
Houston TranStar’s It’s Only a White Line campaign helps avert accidents when motorists and pedestrians become stuck on local freeways. Furthermore, the campaign wants to prevent tragedies and help drivers move vehicles off the road to follow Texas’s Move Over or Slow Down law.
“We must also educate people about the dangers of getting out of the car, changing a tire or trying to cross the freeway on foot,” said Dinah Massie, Executive Director of Houston TranStar. Reportedly, 75 percent of stranded motorists who died in Harris County over a 10-year timespan were standing by their vehicles. Moreover, the risk of injury or death in a secondary crash increases every minute that a person is not in a safe place on the road.
The It’s Only a White Line initiative advises drivers to take steps when a problem arises. First, take the closest exit, even if it breaks the tire rim. Alternatively, pull as far off the road as possible. When you’re stranded, remain in the vehicle. Stay buckled up, turn on hazard lights, call for help and move your seat as far back as possible. In the Tow and Go service area, use TranStar’s free mobile app to call for a no-cost tow. The Tow and Go quick clearance program provides no-cost towing up to one mile for vehicles that break down from mechanical issues.
“We have representatives from incident management, law enforcement, transportation, medical research, hospital trauma and auto insurance who are providing incredible insight and guidance for preventing freeway deaths,” said Massie. TranStar recruited a cross-section of experts with a distinct relevance to this issue to serve on an It’s Only a White Line Leadership Council.
The campaign features helpful information in both English and Spanish. For example, check out these two graphics from the campaign.
It’s Only a White Line wants to clear up misconceptions about freeway accidents as well. For example, motorists sometimes think moving out of harm’s way after a crash will cause them to lose insurance coverage, but this is false.
“Your insurance carrier is first and foremost concerned with your safety,” said David Wuthrich, Executive Director of the Independent Insurance Agents of Houston and member of the It’s Only a White Line Leadership Council. “In the past, documenting a crash for insurance meant waiting for law enforcement at the scene, but getting out of danger is the first step. Taking pictures of the crash from within the safety of your vehicle, including photos of the other vehicle’s license plate, is the next important step. But getting off the freeway is the name of the game.”
Travel with knowledge from TranStar, including information on It’s Only a White Line at HoustonTranstar.org. Download TranStar’s Mobile App at the Google Play or Apple App store to access travel times, roadway conditions, and Tow and GoTM service.
Everyone can get in on the Spring Break excitement in the Memorial District! This year, we have a wide range of exciting activities for people who are young or young at heart.
Memorial City
Memorial City's annual Spring Break activities are back with Spring Break Escape from March 15 to 19. Discover live events simulcast on Memorial City's Facebook Live.
Monday, March 15: Spring Break Escape, Puppet Fun at the Square!
11 a.m.: See Mr. Leo and his fabulous Puppet Pals have a dance party. Register here.
7 p.m.: Catch The Muppets on the giant 24'x14′ HDTV.
Tuesday, March 16: Spring Break Escape, Mad Science at the Square!
11 a.m.: Science fanatics from Mad Science of Houston have an extraordinary show in store for all science lovers. Register here.
7 p.m.: Catch Onward on the giant 24'x14′ HDTV.
Wednesday, March 17: Spring Break Escape, Shamrock at the Square!
11 a.m.: The McTeggart Irish Dancers will perform live to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The group will even teach some of their dance moves so you can participate. Register here.
7 p.m.: Catch Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted on the giant 24'x14′ HDTV.
Thursday, March 18: Spring Break Escape, Art Explosion!
11 a.m.: Instructors from the Newspring Art Studio have an interactive lesson on clay sculpting, so there will be tables at The Square where young artists can follow along and create sculptures. Register up to 2 children here.
7 p.m.: Catch Coco on the giant 24'x14′ HDTV.
Friday, March 19: Spring Break Escape, Magical Friday Fun!
11 a.m.: Magician Michael Blanco has dazzling illusions sure to amaze. Plus, learn some of his secrets to impress your friends and family. Register here.
7 p.m.: Catch SHAZAM! on the giant 24'x14′ HDTV.
But wait; there's more! Memorial City invited the Easter Bunny to hop on down to the Memorial District. From March 13 to April 3, make unforgettable springtime memories at the Easter Bunny's new home in the corridor by Zara and Forever 21, where you will find a new area designed that emphasizes health and safety. Visits with the Easter Bunny are free, and photos are available for purchase. Reservations are required.
CITYCENTRE
From March 12 to 22, participate in The Hunt at CITYCENTRE, a virtual scavenger hunt highlighting restaurants and shops at CITYCENTRE. This 10-day event is available on the Scavify app. Participants earn points by completing tasks. The first 500 participants receive a tumbler. The top 10 participants receive an extra fantastic prize. Keep your eye out for news and updates about the event on CITYCENTRE's Facebook and Instagram pages. Please note that the event became available on March 1, but it will not be active until March 12.
Also, CITYCENTRE has live music every weekend. This Friday, March 12, pop singer Raf Rivera will sing you into the weekend from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Whatever genre of music is your favorite, CITYCENTRE's live music performances have something for you.
Get in on the Spring Break action at The Moran CITYCENTRE, which Hotels.com recently named a 2021 Loved By Guests Award winner. From March 11 to March 28, kids under 12 years of age who stay with family get a free daily treat.
Services take place in the hotel lobby at 5 p.m. every day. Children staying on the package will receive wristbands for the event upon checking in to the hotel.
CITYCENTRE is also home to Bowl and Barrel, where throughout March, kids can bowl for $10 for one hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays. This deal includes the shoe rental. It even comes with lunch and a drink!
Give a warm welcome to the Memorial District's newest restaurant, KP's Kitchen, an elegant bistro that serves American fare for Houston's food lovers. This impressive eatery uses fresh, local ingredients and offers counter and table service.
KP's Kitchen is in a prime spot between the Village Cobbler and Orange Theory Fitness, across from Beautique Salon. Conceptualizing the business, KP thought about European bistros where guests were like family and owners engaged in the process.
Owner Kerry "KP" Pauly gained experience at other popular Houston establishments before beginning the restaurant. The Memorial District was a perfect fit for Pauly's venture because his family lives in the area, and his children attend Memorial Middle School. Pauly created KP's Kitchen to give Houston families a place to gather and make memories over delectable meals.
"I wanted to create an upscale environment people could visit after tennis or after a wedding—a place where all are welcome," Pauly said.
Signature dishes include highlights like KP's Bistro Burger and KP's Crab Cakes. The chicken is of the highest quality and always tender, and the filet mignon is certified Angus beef. For dessert, try the double chocolate chip cookies. Furthermore, while KP's Kitchen obtains its beer-and-wine license, the restaurant is BYOB with a reasonable corkage fee per table.
"Wherever possible, we try to support local businesses, such as Thirdborn Ginger Beer," Pauly said. "Also, local artists often supply our art, including calligraphy from a high school student at Memorial High School." Speaking of supporting local business, the KP's Kitchen menu includes Gulf Red Snapper with tomato-brown butter, a meal with seafood from local fishmonger Blue Horizon.
In addition to providing the Memorial District with fantastic dishes, the restaurant strives to give back to the community through local school spirit nights and raising awareness of important causes and organizations, such as Books for Kids.
"I always wanted to own a restaurant that could give back to the community," Pauly said, "And I wanted to create the perfect, approachable bistro here in the Memorial District."
Launching a restaurant always involves a focus on health and safety, and nowadays, the bar has been raised. Fortunately, KP's Kitchen knows how to help guests enjoy a delicious meal in a safe, upscale restaurant experience.
"We hope to create a culture where safety and sanitation are top priorities along with gratitude," Pauly said. "We want guests to know we are available for all their dining, take-out, and catering needs, and we are thankful they chose our space to celebrate their life moments. We are excited to become the Memorial District's neighborhood bistro and can hardly wait to meet everyone!"
Visit KP's Kitchen today!
KP's Kitchen
700 Town and Country Blvd
Houston, TX 77024
281-974-5366
Posted on 10/21/2020
Notice to Property Owners in
Harris County Municipal Management District #1
aka Memorial Management District
The Memorial Management District is issuing a call for utility burial projects in accordance with its established term sheet (found below). Qualified projects could receive up to 60% reimbursement for actual construction costs. Interested property owners must respond to this notice by November 21, 2020 to be eligible for 2022 reimbursement. Please send your request and project description to:
Memorial Management District
Attn: Pat Walters
9821 Katy Freeway, Suite 180
Houston, TX 77024
patw@memorialdistrict.org
Term Sheet for Utility Burial Reimbursement Agreement
I. Call for Projects
a. At the end of each fiscal year, the Board will determine available funds for utility burial reimbursement projects for the following fiscal year. Based on the availability of funds and any outstanding reimbursement obligations, the Board will issue a request to all District property owners for application to the District for utility burial projects expected to be completed during the following fiscal year.
b. All applications must be submitted to the District within 30 days of the request issued by the Board.
c. Property owners must respond to the District's notice of award within 60 days indicating owner's intent to participate in the Program for the following fiscal year.
d. The Board will enter into a reimbursement agreement with applicants for reimbursement of up to sixty percent (60%) of the construction costs (not design costs) to bury overhead utility lines within the District, subject to all of the following criteria:
i. The overhead utilities to be relocated must be located within the boundaries of the District and adjacent to public streets.
ii. The overhead utilities must be relocated underground within either public street right-of-way or a utility easement.
iii. Reimbursement will be for out-of-pocket construction costs only (not design costs). Applicants will be required to provide the necessary easement(s) and design engineering at their sole cost and expense.
II. Allocation of Reimbursement
a. If the District enters into reimbursement agreements with more than one applicant in the first fiscal year, the Board will determine the allocation of available funds for reimbursement during the first year of the project's reimbursement period based on estimated reimbursable project costs.
b. In subsequent years, project owners which were not fully reimbursed for a utility burial reimbursement project in the prior fiscal year(s) will be reimbursed pro-rata in the same proportions prior to reimbursements being made for projects to be completed that fiscal year.
c. Any project which is the subject of a reimbursement agreement which is not completed during the fiscal year designated in such reimbursement agreement will be required to reapply for reimbursement during a future fiscal year.
III. Request for Reimbursement
a. Upon completion of a utility burial project, project owners must submit the following documentation for payment:
i. Summary of payment of eligible costs
ii. Proof of contractor payments and waivers of liens
iii. Evidence of project acceptance by applicable utility provider’s
b. A reimbursement audit will be prepared by the District's auditor prior to release of funds.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Memorial District businesses are marking this observance and offering you ways to show your support, make a donation and raise awareness.
Love arts and crafts? Put together a special handmade item, such as a pink face mask, with products from JOANN Fabrics and Crafts near Village Plaza. Through Halloween, JOANN will donate 100% of all customer donations collected in JOANN Fabrics stores to Susan G. Komen®, and $1 for each yard of Kona Quilt Cotton Bright Pink, Sew Classic Solid Cotton Bright Pink, and Sew Classic Solid Cotton Teal Blue sold.
https://www.facebook.com/JoAnn/posts/10157713808718295
Staff at Three Brothers Bakery participate in the Race for the Cure by Susan G. Komen®, and although the big group event is canceled this year, the team reminds everyone that breast cancer is NOT canceled. Therefore, many people have opted for virtual races, and people can donate online.
https://www.facebook.com/3brothersbakery/posts/10157121462660583
When a loved one receives a breast cancer diagnosis, one of the best things you can do is to sure the person knows you are there to help and listen. Show your love and support with this great T-shirt at Marlo Miller Boutique. It’s perfect for October—Breast Cancer Awareness Month and fall football season.
https://www.facebook.com/MarloMillerBoutique/posts/10157929687309387
Burn Boot Camp kicked off the month with a Pink Out day, and the gym has continued encourage and enlighten people through social media posts about the importance of awareness.
https://www.facebook.com/BurnBootCampMemorialCityTX/posts/2659899580930204
At State Fare, $1 from every order of a Gradient Rosé Flight in October goes toward a Breast Cancer Awareness cause. You can enjoy some Prosecco, Rosé, Sparkling Rosé, and Red Moscato all while supporting an important cause.
https://www.facebook.com/statefaretx/photos/a.233984660308742/1408749512832245
Memorial Hermann Memorial City wants you to prioritize your annual mammogram. Many things are different this year, but the importance of annual mammogram is not. The award-winning hospital reminds you to put your health at the top of the list, and book your next mammogram now.
https://www.facebook.com/MemorialHermann/posts/10158483580862713
Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center wants people to know how important blood transfusions are for breast cancer patients who are in recovery. The organization regularly holds blood drives in the Memorial District at Memorial City and CITYCENTRE.
https://www.facebook.com/commitforlife/photos/a.128904180977/10157550357320978/
The World Health Organization says breast cancer is the leading form of cancer among women. However, it is important to note that breast cancer can affect anyone, not just women. That means everyone needs to remain vigilant. Schedule regular mammograms or physicals, and speak to your doctor if you notice any swelling, dimpling, or pain in your breast or chest. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer with information from the American Cancer Society here.
Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center and Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center both received certification from DNV GL Healthcare as Comprehensive Stroke Centers (CSC). CSC status indicates the highest level of stroke-care certifications.
Memorial Hermann Memorial City is the first hospital in West Houston to receive this designation.
“The stroke teams at Memorial Hermann Memorial City and Memorial Hermann The Woodlands provide outstanding care to stroke patients and worked together to help each other achieve this designation for both hospitals,” said Dr. Sean Savitz, Stroke Medical Director for Memorial Hermann Health System and Professor and the Frank M. Yatsu, M.D., Chair in Neurology at McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. “It is a great privilege for me to work with such amazing colleagues at both hospitals in achieving CSC status.”
With this announcement, three hospitals in the Memorial Hermann Health System have now received CSC certification, the highest number of CSC-designated hospitals in the same health system in Houston. Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center is also a CSC. This certification recognizes a hospital’s ability to have state-of-the-art infrastructure, the most advanced services, specialists in stroke and cerebrovascular disease, and training to receive and treat patients with the most complex strokes. All of the hospitals provide rapid and timely care for patients and are dedicated to the best outcomes in the Greater Houston community.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of serious, adult disability in the United States. The National Stroke Association estimates nearly 800,000 Americans suffer a stroke each year.
“Achieving certification shows commitment to excellence,” said Patrick Horine, CEO of DNV GL Healthcare. “And it helps demonstrate to your community that you are performing at the highest level.”
For more information on stroke treatment at Memorial Hermann, visit the hospital's webpage on stroke-related information.
Face masks are this year's greatest accessory, and Memorial District retailers are on top of the trend. Our businesses have functional, safe, and stylish masks to protect our community.
This year, Memorial Tailor jumped into mask making. This family-owned-and-operated business has masks with seasonal designs, sports team graphics, and more. They even make masks for special occasions, such as pageants and weddings.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_s3aF5JNNh/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CD6dqBVJfq2
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-kZLZ-JpIG/
Similarly, Marlo Miller Boutique is at the front of the mask movement. When the pandemic hit, the shop worked hard to get masks to the community. Now, it offers unisex masks, embroidered masks, face shields, and mask accessories like mask chains to keep your mask within reach.
https://www.facebook.com/MarloMillerBoutique/photos/a.10151675837414387/10157730750264387
https://www.facebook.com/MarloMillerBoutique/photos/a.10151675837414387/10157803941879387
https://www.facebook.com/MarloMillerBoutique/photos/a.10151675837414387/10157803941859387
https://www.facebook.com/MarloMillerBoutique/photos/a.10151675837414387/10157764676894387
Recently, researchers tested various masks. The results suggested that surgical N95 masks were best at catching respiratory droplets. However, some non-surgical worked well. Non-surgical masks include disposable KN95 masks and reusable all-purpose masks with filters and layers. Find these styles at Lowe's Home Improvement at Bunker Hill, where you can also get children's masks with designs like hearts, dinosaurs, and rocket ships.
Cotton On at Memorial City has cotton masks with adjustable elastic straps. These masks filter 90% of general pathogens and pollution in the air, and the proceeds support global healthcare initiatives and youth education initiatives.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDvUoMLglbj/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDcgU8enSe9/
Many other Memorial City, CityCentre and Town and Country Village stores, such as Aeropostale, Anything Bling and J. Crew have fashion-forward masks.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDRJZ2eJS8W/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CC4Mq2-JCSR/
Aerie and American Eagle Outfitters at Memorial City have unisex masks, some of which you can pair with matching scrunchies.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCbjy0HhRkc/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CAlQQlQBigq/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDuxTZ1HMxo/
Get triple-layer, non-medical grade masks from Old Navy in Memorial City or the Gap or Banana Republic stores at Memorial City or Town and Country Village. Choose from neutral colors and smart designs to complement your work-from-home outfit.
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CCMieneJHGA/
Coach at Memorial City has chic masks, and 100% of the net profit from the sale of these items goes to the organization Feeding America, which provides meals across the nation. You can also find elegant mask chains to dress up your new-normal look.
Anthropologie at CityCentre offers inventive masks, such as tie-back masks with braided ties. The manufacturing process follows environmentally friendly, fair-trade guidelines.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDuANRsDX1b/
Joann Fabrics near Village Plaza has everything you need to make masks whether you prefer funky designs or monochromatic looks. Get textiles, needles, thread, sewing machines, and more. Are your ears sore from masks bands? Follow YouTube tutorials to make tie-back masks or headband masks to save your ears.
Not all masks work well. Researchers found that some fleece and polyester neck gaiters performed worse than the no-mask control group. They may break respiratory droplets into smaller sizes and help them remain in the air, so other masks may be better.
Remember, masks are not a perfect defense. Wear masks with layers, and wear masks at home if you are ill or caring for someone sick. Wash your hands with soap and water, use hand sanitizer, and practice social distancing.
Culinary Khancepts, the Houston group behind Star Cinema and State Fare Kitchen and Bar, acquired Liberty Kitchen at the Treehouse in Memorial City. The restaurant reopened on August 14 with a new menu mix of classic favorites, including homemade gumbo, deviled eggs, and Island Creek oysters, and unique meal options.
Omar Khan, C.E.O. of Culinary Khancepts, expressed admiration for Liberty Kitchen, saying, "I have always been a big fan and supporter of Liberty Kitchen and I am thrilled to be able to carry on the legacy of the brand. Liberty Kitchen has an amazing staff that is anxious to get back to work and provide phenomenal experiences for our guests, friends and families."
Liberty Kitchen offers indoor seating and patio options, and takeout is available. Liberty Kitchen's founding Chef and Culinary Director Lance Fegen will lead the reopening and oversee the culinary direction and restaurant operations.
Will Davis, Managing Partner of F.E.E.D. TX Restaurant Group, discussed the acquisition by Culinary Khancepts, saying, "We are very grateful to be passing the torch to Omar Khan, who values the brand as much as we do and know that he will add to Liberty Kitchen's growth."
Liberty Kitchen is part of the Memorial City complex located at 963 Bunker Hill.
This month, demolition began on the former Sears building at Memorial City Mall, the first milestone in the redevelopment of the 1.7 million square-foot super retail center.
Sears was Memorial City Mall’s original anchor in 1966, but the store closed in late 2018. Now, almost 55 years later from Sears opening, this site serves as the launching point in the creation of a visionary outdoor lifestyle/retail district. The 20-acre parcel is a key aspect of the long-term master plan for the 300-acre Memorial City campus that includes reimagining and redesigning the area to add new mixed-use and lifestyle options, along with improved walkability.
“Today is an exciting day for us, as the demolition of Sears is the first visible step to creating a new chapter for Memorial City and further evidence that our company is well-positioned today and for the future,” said Jason Johnson, President of MetroNational, the Houston-based privately-held real estate investment, development and management company that owns and operates Memorial City.
MetroNational began working last year with Fort-Worth based Trademark Property Company, to realign and reimagine Memorial City into an integrated, vibrant component of the entire Memorial City campus.
“We have spent the last year creating a strategic vision to evolve Memorial City Mall into a premiere mixed-use development, and the Sears demolition is one of the first steps of that plan,” said Terry Montesi, CEO, Trademark Property Company.
Gensler and Stantec are leading design efforts for the redevelopment project.