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Westchase District Welcomes Commander Guzman as Crime Plummets

Westchase District VP of Public Safety Mark Hubenak stands with Commander Alvaro Guzman

HPD Commander Alvaro Guzman has joined Westchase District as the new liaison between Westchase District Patrol operations and the Houston Police Department. Guzman has steadily moved up the ranks at HPD since 2000 when he completed his police academy training. Guzman has served in many capacities within HPD, including emergency communications, robbery division and vehicular crimes. Guzman led the HPD command at the 2022 NRA National Convention, the Republican Party of Texas’ annual convention, the Freedom Over Texas 4th of July celebration and, most recently, he oversaw 24-hour security for the NCAA Final Four team hotels. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Houston-Downtown and a master’s degree from Lamar University.

Guzman succeeds Assistant Chief Ban Tien who had served as Westchase District’s HPD liaison for a year. Tien was recently promoted to Executive Assistant Chief of HPD. This comes as Westchase District's crime rate has plummeted 21.5% following several crime prevention measures including the expansion of its private security patrol in support of Houston police, the installation of license-plate reading cameras, and the creation of a dedicated dispatch line for property owners and businesses.

The new findings compare Houston Police Department crime data from October 2021 through March 2022 to those during the same six-month time period one year later.

Overall, violent crimes in Westchase District dropped 33.3% while non-violent crimes fell 19.1%. Among the most compelling reductions, robberies are down 51.5%, theft of vehicle accessories is down 40.4%, and shoplifting is down 31.8%. These drops outpace the reduction in crime that has occurred throughout Houston during this same time.

“I am proud that Westchase District is affiliated with some of the best officers in the Houston Police Department,” said Westchase District’s Vice President of Public Safety Mark Hubenak. “We’ve seen great reductions in crime recently because of our multi-faceted approach to public safety. I look forward to working with Commander Guzman on any new ideas he may bring to the table to combat crime in Westchase District.”

Charting a Greener Path

University of Houston Student Evelyn Martinez begins Internship with Westchase District

Evelyn Martinez, a dedicated student at the University of Houston Downtown, has joined the Westchase District Projects team as our new summer intern through a connection with the Organic Horticulture Benefits Alliance (OHBA). With her impending graduation in December, where she will receive a Bachelor of Science in Biological and Physical Sciences with a minor in sustainability, Evelyn brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for environmental issues.

During her internship, Evelyn will tackle various projects aimed at enhancing sustainability within Westchase District. One of her key responsibilities will be developing a comprehensive recycling program for the district's waste, encompassing transit stops, streetscapes, trails and parks. Additionally, she will evaluate the feasibility of implementing a community composting initiative, emphasizing the importance of organic waste management.

Recognizing the significance of promoting green practices within the community, Evelyn will also spearhead the development of a green initiatives forum, providing a platform for stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable projects. Moreover, Evelyn's role will involve reviewing the design of Meadowglen, a district development, to identify potential avenues for obtaining additional credits for the Envision Program, which emphasizes sustainable infrastructure. Lastly, she will assist with the upcoming Organics Program in coordination with OHBA on June 23rd, further reinforcing her commitment to promoting environmentally friendly practices.

With Evelyn's expertise and dedication, the Westchase District Projects team is poised to make substantial progress in their sustainability endeavors this summer.

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Thursdays @ 3 p.m. *Rain or shine* St. Cyril of Alexandria Catholic Church

10503 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77042 (at Rogerdale, one block west of Beltway 8)

Farmtastic Summer Series

Special Activities for Kids and Families June 15 and July 20

Quillian Center Makes a Splash with Noah's Ark 2.0

On May 21, the Quillian Center celebrated the grand opening of Noah's Ark 2.0, a newly revamped kids pool and splash pad. The dedication ceremony commenced with a heartfelt prayer led by Lance Richards, Senior Pastor of First Methodist, and Tom Gaden, Executive Director of Quillian Center, who offered words of dedication. The event also featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, with Cy and Susan Helm, founders of the Helm Foundation, performing the honors. Their foundation played a pivotal role in making the new Noah's Ark a reality.

The original Noah's Ark pool, built 25 years ago, had served as a community pool for the Westchase District before many apartment communities established their own swimming facilities. However, years of exposure to harsh weather conditions had left the pool in a state of disrepair. Recognizing the need for a rejuvenated space, Quillian Center took up the task of creating Noah's Ark 2.0.

Tom Gaden emphasized that the new pool is constructed with durable materials that will ensure its longevity, surpassing the lifespan of its predecessor. Moreover, the revamped Noah's Ark boasts a zero point entry ramp, promoting accessibility for children of all abilities.

The dedication ceremony attracted notable figures, including the office of council member Tiffany Thomas, who presented an official proclamation from Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, designating the day as Quillian Center Day. Gaden reflected on the significance of the occasion stating, “Many of the parents in attendance today have memories of playing at the original Noah's Ark. With this new and improved Noah’s ark 2.0, you kids who are here today will be able to bring your children here as well.”

Following the grand opening, the Noah's Ark 2.0 pool is now open for daily swims and party rentals. For detailed information and inquiries, interested individuals can visit the official website of the Quillian Center at https://www.quilliancenter.org/.

Summer Movie Nights are Back!

Gather your family and friends and join us for some fantastic movies under the stars. Events start at 7 pm, and movie showings begin at 8:30 pm. Arrive early for food trucks, yard games, and free popcorn and to secure your spot on the lawn. Don't forget to bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a cozy movie-watching experience.

Summer Movie Nights in June

June 9 - Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile presented by Harris County Precinct 4

Free popcorn provided by Harris County Precinct 4
Houston Texans – Lawn Games & Giveaways
Uncle Louie G’s - Italian Ice
El Taco Nato - Tacos
Fresh n’ Juicy – Lemonade & Sweet Treats

June 23 - Luca presented by Alief ISD

Free popcorn provided by Quillian Center
Houston Dynamo – Lawn Games & Giveaways
Lemonade Day – Scavenger Hunt
Uncle Louie G’s – Italian Ice
Mesquite Wood Fire Pizza – Pizza Truck
Instant Impression Travel Services – Giveaways

View the Park Calendar below to see all the free events and activities coming up at Woodchase Park.

Woodchase Park Calendar

Westchase District's Public Safety Dispatch line is 713-701-7800.

About Westchase District

Westchase District is a municipal management district funded by local property owners in a 4.2 square-mile area centered on Sam Houston Tollway between I-10 and US-59 on the west side of Houston, Texas.

The district promotes growth by enhancing:

Mobility
Beautification
Public Safety
Planning and Development

Have District-related news?

Send it with your contact info to: Chris Nelson

Approved items may be altered for clarity, length and style, and will appear as our editorial calendar permits.

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