HRA NEWS

Shreveport Farmers' Market has Highland Connections

2009-07-26T14:53:00.003-05:00

This amazing song about the Shreveport Farmers' Market was written and performed by Highland resident Alan Dyson. His daughter Alana also contributed her skills to this tune. The video was shot, directed and edited by Shreveport filmmaker Kay Kennedy.

Robert Trudeau has a post on his Shreveport Blog about the last Tuesday of this year's summer market. The SFM market manager is Noma Fowler-Sandlin. She's the owner of Pan's Pantry Jams, Jellies and Preserves,a Highland based business where she captures new-fangled flavors the old-fashioned way.

Haynesville

2009-07-14T18:34:00.003-05:00

A new documentary about the Haynesville Shale just launched its website. Click here to see the trailer for it. The film was created by local producer-director Gregory Kallenberg. The cinematographer on the project, Rob Senska, is a resident of Highland.

Haynesville explores the current energy situation and what something the scale of the Haynesville could mean to the United States’ energy picture.

The Highland Restoration Association has more information on the Haynesville Shale discovery.

We Love a Parade! This Saturday!

2009-07-02T18:33:00.002-05:00

Get ready for some good old fashioned fun this Saturday! A delightful way for your family to celebrate America's Independence Day! Join in all the fun and meet your neighbors.

Greek...and More

2009-05-08T15:07:00.002-05:00

It's a whole weekend celebrating the culture of Greece May 15th through May 17. Greek... and More happens at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Highland.

You'll experience an authentic Greek music band and Hellenic dancing. There will be plenty of Greek food in the form of dinners, salads, gyro sandwiches, feta fries, baklava sundaes and assorted Greek pastries. For more information see the festival website.

Highland Cleans

2009-05-05T14:19:00.009-05:00

The Highland Restoration Association and Highland Area Partnership invite you to pick up litter in Highland this Saturday morning. Meet in the parking lot across from the Highland Center, 520 Olive Street, at 8:00 am.

The Highland Area Partnership will give away a free t-shirt to each volunteer. HRA will provide other necessary supplies. A limited number of trash grabbers will be available, but bring your own if you have one. A dumpster for non-toxic trash will be available on the parking lot of the Highland Center.

This clean-up campaign takes the place of the Great American Clean-Up that was rained out in March. Contact Highland Restoration Association at 221-7629 or email them at contact@highlandrestoration.org for more information.

Also scrubbing down in Highland are The Friends of Greenwood Cemetery and the Shreveport Garden Study Club. They've also scheduled a clean up day this Saturday at Greenwood Cemetery. For more information 318 861-0917. Pictured above is a marker located in that cemetery.

Preservation

2009-05-04T18:00:00.004-05:00

Frank B. Gilbert, a national expert on preservation and the law, is in town this week to try to jump start legislation in Shreveport to protect historic sites.

The radio program Smart City has an interesting show on how communities capture and preserve their histories.

Save Highland's History

2009-04-29T14:35:00.004-05:00

Shreveport is the only large city in Louisiana that doesn't already have Historic Commission and ordinances to protect historic properties.

If you are in favor of preserving the historic districts and buildings in Shreveport, now is the time to make your voice heard. Frank B. Gilbert, a national expert on preservation and the law, will be in town next week to try to jump start legislation in Shreveport to protect historic sites.

At a special session of the Shreveport City Council, Tuesday, May 5, 2:00 pm, Government Plaza-- Mr. Gilbert will be there discussing the need for ordinances to protect historic properties. Make plans to attend because we need to show the council there is grassroots support for this initiative in Shreveport.

Regular meeting of Caddo Parish Commission, Thursday, May 7, 3:30 pm, Government Plaza--Mr. Gilbert is first on their agenda and will speak for about 15 minutes, then answer commissioner's questions.

Every Day is Earth Day in Highland

2009-04-22T13:48:00.004-05:00

Happy Earth Day 2009 (April 22)! Congratulations on being earth friendly every day in Highland.

Your purchase of an older home is a fantastic way to reuse a resource. In 2008 Highland became the first Shreveport neighborhood to implement curbside recycling. And by living in a community that is convenient for biking or walking, you've taken an additional step to save Mother Earth.

Weatherize

2009-04-07T18:02:00.004-05:00

Need help getting your home into shape to fight those high energy bills? The Caddo Community Action Agency (CCAA) is weatherizing 188 homes in Caddo Parish by June 30, 2009. For income guidelines contact CCAA at 861-4808.

Saturday Clean

2009-03-24T14:50:00.006-06:00

The Great American Clean-Up is this Saturday, March 28. Its a fun way to meet your Highland neighbors!

Volunteers meet in the parking lot across from the Highland Center at 8:00 am. If you have a trash grabbers bring it. More info? Call 221-7629 or email contact@highlandrestoration.org.

Spring Clean + Donate to HAP

2009-03-21T15:30:00.006-06:00

Saturday, April 4, Highland Area Partnership will hold a BIG garage sale and they need your used items to sell!

Now is the time put your stuff to work for a good cause. Bring your goodies (no clothing, please) to the HAP Office at Centenary Square, Suite 212 on Wednesday, March 25, 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. For more information, call 869-5706 or email hap@bayou.com.

The money HAP raises will fund the Highland Jazz and Blues Festival. To stay updated join the Highland Jazz and Blues Festival on Facebook.

Great American Clean-Up with HRA and HAP

2009-03-19T16:06:00.004-06:00

Because of bad weather the date for the Great American Clean-Up was moved to Saturday, March 28 at 8:00 am--11:00 am.

Volunteers meet in the parking lot across from the Highland Center at 8:00 am. HAP will give away free t-shirts to each volunteer. HRA will provide gloves and garbage bags for participants. A limited number of trash grabbers will be available, but bring your own if you have one.

Hollywood to Highland

2009-03-17T17:38:00.007-06:00

In the current issue of At Home, a special publication of Forum News, there is a splendid article by Noma Fowler-Sandlin about a couple of newcomers to the Highland neighborhood. Mark and Rose Davis, who both work in the movie industry, now live in a two-story historic home built in 1909.

Photos in the article are by Lora Fairchild.

Meet Your Neighbors this Saturday in the Highland Community Garden!

2009-03-04T14:04:00.001-06:00

Great American Clean-Up with HRA and HAP

2009-03-02T15:35:00.005-06:00

HRA and HAP neighborhood organizations invite Highland residents to pick up litter from Highland neighborhood streets Saturday, March 14, from 8:00—11:00 am, as part of the Great American Clean-Up.

Volunteers meet in the parking lot across from the Highland Center at 8:00 am. HAP will give away free t-shirts to each volunteer. HRA will provide gloves and garbage bags for participants. A limited number of trash grabbers will be available, but bring your own if you have one.

More info? Call 221-7629 or email contact@highlandrestoration.org.

Happy Mardi Gras 2009!

2009-02-24T11:33:00.002-06:00

Highland - We're a Krewe of Characters!

2009-02-20T08:28:00.005-06:00

While the Krewe of Highland parade is this Sunday afternoon at 2, Mardi Gras is actually a full season of activities. One of the most unusual happenings is the creation of Mardi Grape Jelly every year by Highland based jam, jelly and preserve maker, Pan's Pantry. Click on the above picture taken by Robert Trudeau and you'll see a little baby swimming in the layers of purple, gold and green jelly.

By the way, the Krewe of Highland Bal Masque is tonight at 7 at the Randle T. Moore Center. For more info on the events remaining in the 2009 Mardi Gras season click on the Shreveport Bossier Fun Guide.

Krewe of Highland Parade in The Shreveport Times

2009-02-18T11:42:00.002-06:00

In today's Shreveport Times, reporter April Reynolds covers the wacky goodness that is the Krewe of Highland Parade.

Her story touches on the beginnings of the parade when the event was "...a funky little neighborhood deal by Matthew Linn. He got people on bicyles and lawn mowers..."

Fourteen years later the parade is still rolling along. These days Linn is a Caddo Parish Commissioner who also owns one of the jewels of Highland, Columbia Cafe.

Old Highland Sanitarium

2009-02-17T14:24:00.003-06:00

At 1006 Highland you'll find one of the highlights of the new HRA tour guide, the Old Highland Sanitarium.

Mike Rosebery has captured the eastern most portion of this historic hospital, which is built in the Arts and Crafts style. The building now houses Brentwood Hospital.

Highland - We're a Krewe of Characters!

2009-02-13T17:55:00.006-06:00

For a completely different way to experience the Krewe of Highland Parade, join the Blanc et Noir Marching Society. Robert Trudeau is the Mack Daddy behind the group and says call him if you want to be part of the cool kids! There are scholarships available to help with the membership dues if you want to join the society.

Thank you to Mike Rosebery for the dandy pic of Mr. Trudeau from the 2008 Krewe of Highland Mardi Gras Parade.

Heart Highland

2009-02-11T16:15:00.004-06:00

If you spend Saturday, February 14 walking around Highland and cleaning up, you can eat that big box of chocolates and not gain a pound! HRA members have organized a litter clean-up this Saturday at 8:30 am at the Highland Center parking lot (520 Olive Street)

Call 221-7629 if you can help. It's a great way to meet the cool folks of Highland and get the neighborhood looking groovy for the Krewe of Highland Parade. Sorry, no public dumpster available for this clean-up.

The above picture was taken in an alley in Highland. Can you name the location?

Highland - We're A Krewe of Characters!

2009-02-07T16:02:00.006-06:00

Ernie Roberson is just one of the characters you'll see in the Krewe of Highland Parade. He even posted about it on his blog at The Shreveport Times.

HRA General Membership Meeting

2009-02-05T16:44:00.005-06:00

Highland Restoration Association General Membership Meeting
5:30 p.m., Thursday, February 12, 2009
Noel Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 520 Herndon

*Supper will be served to HRA members
*Election of 2009 Board Members and Officers
*Vote on the proposed 2010 consolidation of HRA and HAP
*Hear Review of HRA’s 2008 Highlights and Preview for 2009

Save the Dates: February 20 and February 22

2009-02-04T16:05:00.001-06:00

2009 Krewe of Highland Bal Masque is Friday February 20. Dig out your formal or wear a costume. Masks are required!

Krewe of Highland Parade is Sunday February 22 at 2 pm. 2008 parade pictures.

Highland Activist in The Shreveport Times

2009-01-05T05:36:00.005-06:00

Highland activist Sally Marie Dowden is featured in an article by Shreveport Times reporter John Andrew Prime. Dowden was selected as one of the paper's Everyday Leaders.

This is the ninth year the paper has recognized 10 area leaders who are making a difference in their communities.

Happy Holidays

2008-12-23T15:03:00.002-06:00

Make a New Year's Resolution to get involved with your neighborhood in 2009.

For more information on joining the Highland Restoration Association please see the latest edition of the HRA newsletter. Now available online. Click on Fall 08.

Highland Restoration Association Newsletter

2008-12-03T15:23:00.004-06:00

The Winter 2008 issue of the HRA newsletter is out. It's full of the good news of life in Highland. You'll find an update on the Haynesville Shale, photos from recent HRA events and a pictorial essay on the homeowners who've won the Highland Improvement Award.

To find an online copy check out the HRA website (and click on Fall 08 newsletter).

A Williamsburg Holiday Celebration

2008-12-02T13:24:00.003-06:00

HRA and Meadows Museum want you to experience the scents, sounds and simplicity of a traditional "Williamsburg-style" Christmas this Sunday.

Enjoy live music, storytelling and old-fashioned ornament making. The free event starts at 2:30 p.m. For more information and to RSVP (so they know how many supplies to buy for the making of the Christmas ornaments) contact Diane Dufilho, Meadows Museum Director at 318 869-5169. For other fun activities happening in our area check out the December on the Red website.

Meadows Museum and HRA: Greening Up Your Christmas

2008-11-26T15:04:00.009-06:00

It's an afternoon of FREE Christmas fun at the Meadows Museum Sunday, December 7, 2008. Starting at 2:30 there will be scads of holiday themed activities. In addition to greening the museum with items from nature, there will be auto harp music, orange pomander making, storytelling, and a performance by the Community Renewal International Highland Children's Choir.

Pictured is HooDoo Guy. He's hanging in the window of the Meadows Museum Gift Shop where he's available for purchase.

Highland Jazz and Blues Festival Columbia Park Saturday

2008-11-13T13:07:00.004-06:00

This year's Highland Jazz and Blues festival is dedicated to Highland resident and blues artist Buddy Flett, who has been recovering from a serious illness and will perform.

Saturday's fest kicks off at noon with a 10-minute "Second Line" performance by the Zillionaires and members of the Red and Black Marching Brass Band. (This nifty brass band has also been a big part of the Mardi Gras parade in Highland. They work in tandem with the Blanc et Noir Marching Society).

Lewis House

2008-11-11T13:43:00.003-06:00

675 Jordan is where you'll find one of Highland's large Victorian homes. At the rear of the property is the original carriage house. You can find out more about the Lewis House in the new HRA tour guide.

Click on the above picture if you want to see a larger version of the house. It'll also take you to more work by Shreveport photographer Mike Rosebery. He's got a great eye for all the beauty in Shreveport.

Jazz and Blues

2008-11-03T02:27:00.007-06:00

We're just a days away from one of the most unique celebrations in Shreveport. Saturday, November 15, 2008 brings the annual Highland Jazz and Blues Festival to the pine scented hills of Columbia Park.

New this year, the outdoor party has a MySpace page. If you're still not sure what to expect, mosey over to Trudeau's Shreveport Blog to look over his posts on the last couple of years of the festival.

Up-and-Coming Highland

2008-10-29T09:55:00.003-06:00

April Reynolds does a great job of covering the BusinessWeek.com story about Highland in The Shreveport Times today.

In the article Highland Restoration Association President, Teresa Scott-Edgerton emphasized the great real estate buying opportunities in the neighborhood. Also quoted was Kathryn Usher, a Highland resident and artist. She reflected on the artistic appeal of the area.

Honaker House

2008-10-24T04:47:00.001-05:00

Shreveport photographer Mike Rosebery has captured the grandeur of 615 Jordan. This Greek Revival home is over one hundred years old and is one of the highlights of the new HRA tour guide.

A fun family activity for fall would be a stroll around Highland to capture images of the historical structures. You'll be surprised at the dazzling pictures your kids will take. Take advantage of digital cameras and cell phone cameras for an outing that's practically free! Pick up a copy of the tour guide through the Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

Support Sustainability with Your Christmas Gifts

2008-10-21T15:48:00.013-05:00

This Saturday Noel Memorial United Methodist Church offers Christmas gifts that are a part of the fair trade movement. The Greater Gift Market will be in the church's gym from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Last year the unique jewelry from Beads for Life sold out quickly. Two additional organizations will be on hand this year 10,000 Villages and Two Hands World Shop. For more information call Debbie Covington at 318-221-5207.

Energy and Economy Worries?

2008-10-14T14:20:00.002-05:00

The man with the plan is coming to town. Businessman T. Boone Pickens will hold an energy town hall meeting at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 22, at the Shreveport Convention Center. Pickens will take questions from the audience so the meeting will be a great place to ask Haynesville Shale questions. Limited seating is available. R.S.V.P. to amykathleen@bellsouth.net.

P.S. Pictured above is the woodblock print Circumstances done by Clyde Connell in 1956. It eloquently illustrates the bobble we've been having with energy and economy woes. It's a part of the Connell show at artspace.

Heart of Shreveport

2008-10-12T17:49:00.006-05:00

Don't miss Eric J. Brock's article on the Highland and Fairfield areas in the current issue of Louisiana Cultural Vistas Magazine. It starts on page 24. Photographer Neil Johnson supplied the gorgeous pictures.

Miss Kitty with this Rabies Reminder

2008-10-10T16:16:00.005-05:00

Miss Kitty says "Go to ATM. Get $5 for every dog and cat you have. Bring them and the money to the Highland Center Saturday October 11 from 10:00 a.m. 'till 2:00 p.m. for their rabies vaccine."

Co-sponsored by the Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana, Caddo Parish Animal Control Services and the Highland Restoration Association.

P.S. Dogs must be on leash and cats must be in a carrier. Bring plenty of plastic bags to pick up the poo-poo. City law says you gotta clean up after your critter!

Sometimes the wait is lengthy. Bring a chair or you can sit on the curb. Bring some water. Don't think you'll need snacks... Miss Kitty says you can bring her some tuna juice if you'd like... Miss Kitty is a real live ginger cat living the high life in Highland.

Still Time To Get Your Papers Signed

2008-10-08T15:49:00.002-05:00

The ShreveCentre Coalition is giving neighborhoods some extra time to get their Non-Binding Letters of Intent turned in.

From Tuesday's article in The Shreveport Times "The Highland Restoration Group, which represents Shreveport's Highland neighborhood, has more than 5,000 properties. Only 40 percent of those properties have turned in letters of intent.

James Eakin, who represented the Highland Restoration Group at the ShreveCentre meeting last week, said it has been difficult collecting letters, mostly because many properties in Highland are rentals, and many of the owners live out of state."

Eakin went on to say he is still getting letters of intent every day. Have you mailed yours to HRA? Click for more information. On a related note, the price of gas is starting to bobble and that's causing lease prices to drop.

Business Week Says Invest in Highland

2008-09-25T13:58:00.006-05:00

Shreveport's Highland neighborhood was just featured in an online Business Week article as being among the nation's top up and coming neighborhoods.

BusinessWeek.com selected 15 urban neighborhoods that artists have discovered and where homeowners could see returns in coming decades. Shreveport's Highland neighborhood was highlighted along with neighborhoods in Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, Brooklyn, Phildelphia, Portland, Raleigh/Durham, San Franscisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C.

Got Letter?

2008-09-04T18:26:00.005-05:00

Have you signed a Non-Binding Letter of Intent, which will allow the ShreveCentreCoalition to include your property in their Haynesville Shale lease negotiations?

If not, you can find a copy on the HRA website or you can pick one up at Lila's Cakes and Chocolates and City Printing on Line Ave at College.

Fire Station No. 5

2008-08-20T15:29:00.003-05:00

Built in 1905 this historic structure is now a private residence on Stoner Avenue. It was one of the first fire stations built outside of Shreveport's central business district.

You can read more about this building in the new HRA tour guide.

The Water Issue

2008-08-14T13:00:00.004-05:00

Imagine turning on your kitchen faucet and no water comes out. Water was one of the issues addressed at last night's Haynesville Shale in Highland meeting. The Shreveport Times has an article today about folks whose water supply is way down as a direct result of drilling.

By the way, the Kings Highway Christian Church was packed with folks. Thank you for coming out and thank you for supporting Highland and the efforts of HRA! And thank you, Ricky Edgerton, for sharing your great photo of the huge crowd that filled the church.

Tonight

2008-08-13T16:23:00.003-05:00

6:30 p.m.
Kings Highway Christian Church
Kings Highway and Line Avenue

Find out about what's going on with the Haynesville Shale in Highland.

P.S. Look pretty. There are documentary filmmakers in town who just might capture your rags-to-riches mug!

Photo from the information wall at Columbia Cafe. That's one of the best things about the Highland, all the cool places to dine and shop!

If You Can't Make Wednesday's Meeting

2008-08-12T02:35:00.003-05:00

HRA and the ShreveCentreCoalition are working together to get the best combination of up-front bonus, royalty percentage and favorable lease clauses to benefit all homeowners.

To participate, you must sign and return the Non-Binding Letter of Intent found on this page. It will allow the Coalition to include your property in the lease negotiations.

Wednesday's meeting at the Kings Highway Christian Church is a great place to get all your questions answered.

Shreveport Times Blog

2008-08-08T13:30:00.001-05:00

HRA now has a blog on The Shreveport Times website.

Also, have you seen all the Haynesville Shale information on HRA's website?

Print and Hand Out To Your Neighbors!

2008-08-05T15:26:00.005-05:00

Join us next Wednesday night and bring a neighbor!

Don't be afraid to bother your whole block. As Jack McLeod posted on his blog "Neighbors won’t mind your being nosey with their best interests at heart. Each neighborhood needs to achieve a 90% penetration rate for us to have the most successful package to present to the energy companies. That’s a realistic goal if everyone helps."

By clicking on the flyer and going to the flickr.com website you can access different sizes.

ShreveCentre Coalition Blog

2008-08-03T13:19:00.003-05:00

The ShreveCentre Coalition has a blog on The Shreveport Times website. It's written by Jack McLeod and has some very informative posts on mineral rights and the Haynesville Shale.

More information about the ShreveCentre Coalition will be available at the August 13 meeting at Kings Highway Christian Church. In the meantime here's the link to McLeod's blog.

Don't Sign ANYTHING, Yet

2008-08-01T13:14:00.006-05:00

Highland Restoration Association is now a part of the ShreveCentre Coalition. That new group now has 24 homeowner associations as members and will be a part of the August 13 meeting at Kings Highway Christian Church.

Jack McLeod is president of ShreveCentre Coalition. He also heads the Jackson Square Towne House Homes Association and the Southeast Shreveport Homeowners Alliance. McLeod says experts have convinced him it's best to not sign anything just yet and that includes any type of mineral lease deal or any other type of document presented by an oil and gas production company.

At the August 13 meeting you'll get information about HRA participation in ShreveCentreCoalition plus the opportunity to sign non-binding letters of intent to be part of negotiations.

Here's a heart stopping story on KTBS about what could happen if you sign something without reading the fine print. The Shreveport Times also has an on going special project about the Haynesville Shale.

Are You In the Money?

2008-07-28T12:33:00.007-05:00

HRA is sponsoring an informational meeting on the Haynesville Shale on Wednesday, August 13 at the Kings Highway Christian Church. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m.

In the meantime, KTBS has an interesting special on the Haynesville Shale. If you don't want to wait for it to be on TV again you can catch it on their website. On that same web page there's tons of information on the Haynesville Shale and what you need to know as a Highland property owner.

Noel Memorial United Methodist Church

2008-07-21T23:57:00.003-05:00

Built in 1913 in the Gothic Revival style, Noel Memorial United Methodist Church stands at the corner of Herndon and Highland. You can find out more about about this structure in the new HRA tour guide.

Get your free copy of the brochure through the Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

Click on pictures to see more detail.

Half way to Mardi Gras

2008-07-15T14:48:00.002-05:00

Got your costume or float ready for the 2009 Krewe of Highland Mardi Gras Parade? It rolls through the streets on February 22. Parade founder Matthew Linn says the event is always the Sunday before Fat Tuesday.

We'll leave you with this cool bit of Mardi Gras 2008 on YouTube from Trudeau, creator of the Blanc et Noir Marching Society.

Party Pics

2008-07-14T01:21:00.003-05:00

If you missed Saturday's reception at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum you have until July 31 to see the Highland's Historic Bungalows exhibit. The big food hit at the party? Tasty cookies from Lila's Cakes and Chocolates on Olive Street.

Can't make it to the show before it ends? You can see the photos on James Eakin's website.

Celebrating the Bungalow!

2008-07-08T12:00:00.002-05:00

This Saturday, July 12, is the opening reception for the Highland's Historic Bungalows show at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, 3201 Centenary Blvd. The photos are by Highland resident James Eakin.

Plan to mix and mingle from 1-3. It promises to be swell party since it was standing room only at the last HRA event.

Davidson-Bradbury House

2008-07-04T15:21:00.003-05:00

Built in 1893, this Queen Anne house was the home of historian Max Bradbury and his wife Margaret. He was the founder of the North Louisiana Historical Association.

You can find out more about about this home on Wichita in the new HRA tour guide.

Get your free copy of the brochure through the Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

Click on pictures to see more detail.

Highland Curbs It

2008-06-27T12:11:00.004-05:00

The blue recycling bins have been delivered in Highland. Not sure what can be recycled? A handy list of Yes and No is on the top of the cart. The Just Curb It website has even more information.

The first date the bins will be picked up is August 18.

Thornhill

2008-06-23T13:48:00.005-05:00

Thornhill was built in 1856 and is possibly the oldest house in the Highland-Fairfield area. You can find out more about about this Gothic Revival style home in the new HRA tour guide.

Get your free copy of the brochure through the Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

Click on pictures to see more detail.

We're in the Fun Guide!

2008-06-18T18:28:00.007-05:00

History as fun? History as entertainment? The Highland Restoration Association thinks so.

We're throwing a party on Saturday, July 12, from 1:00--3:00 pm at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum for the photo exhibit Highland's Historic Bungalows. The show features the work of Shreveport photographer James Eakin. Special Guest Sue Ball will share stories of bungalow living and Highland's past. HRA's scrapbooks will be on display during the reception. Light refreshments will be served. For all the details see the Shreveport Bossier Fun Guide.

Explore the Heart of Shreveport

2008-06-12T11:45:00.002-05:00

If you click on the little thumbnail pictures of the HRA tour guide it will take you to bigger pictures of this cyber version of the actual brochure.

Get your free copy of the brochure through the Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

W.L. Trimble House

2008-06-09T13:20:00.006-05:00

The W.L. Trimble House on Herndon is one of the homes featured in the new HRA tour guide. Queen Anne style, this house features exceptional imbricated fishscale shingle work and wrap-around porches.

Get your free copy of the brochure through the Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

Click on pictures to see more detail.

New Tour Guide

2008-06-02T14:37:00.002-05:00

Wednesday at 10 a.m. a new guide to the historic homes in Highland will be unveiled at Meadows Museum, 2911 Centenary Blvd.

Following a brief presentation by Sue Ball and Eric Brock a trolley will take participants to several of the 75 homes listed in the newly printed guide.

The brochure is funded by a grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. Shreveport Times reporter Sherry P. Shepard did a lovely story on the event.

A Jewel of Diversity: HRA Tour Guide Showcases Community

2008-06-01T07:54:00.000-05:00

Sherry P. Shepard at The Shreveport Times did a wonderful job covering our new tour guide!

Quality of Life High on List

2008-05-29T07:46:00.000-05:00

Thank you Shreveport Times and April Reynolds on a great story about HRA and our clean up efforts on Saturday!

Picking It Up in Highland

2008-05-27T22:10:00.011-05:00

Fifteen volunteers hit the streets early Saturday morning, May 24 (hoping to beat the heat by starting at 8:00 am) to pick up litter. Our Neighborhood Clean-Up--co-sponsored by Shreveport Green, note our new lime green tee's--rid Highland's streets of about 35-45 bags of trash.

Our clean team worked Creswell, Highland, Gilbert, Olive, Centenary and parts of College and 1000-1100 blocks of streets between Fairfield and Southern. A special thanks to all our helpers and to Times reporter April Reynolds who came out to tout our efforts for The Shreveport Times. We appreciate the community support.

Don't put our neighborhood down, pick up litter when you see it.

Shot the Dog

2008-05-12T22:10:00.003-05:00

The Highland Rabies Clinic is a great deal. For only $5 (per animal)* your pet can get a rabies vaccine.

Round up your critters and your neighbors' critters and take advantage of a this low cost session to get Bubbles** and Bloodfang** protected on Saturday, May 24 from 10 am until 2 pm at the Highland Center.

Co-sponsors are the Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana, Caddo Parish Animal Control Services and the Highland Restoration Association.

*CASH ONLY **Believe it or not Bubbles is a dog and Bloodfang is a cat. Both live in Highland.

HRA General Membership Meeting Feb. 28 at 6:00

2008-02-21T13:28:00.001-06:00

Come to the HRA General Membership meeting on February 28 (Thursday) at 6:00 pm in the Noel Methodist Church fellowship hall to find out more out HRA's future plans. If you can, bring a dish to share in our potluck meal. If you are unable to provide a covered dish, come anyway. See you then.

Report Shoes on Power Lines!

2008-02-21T13:21:00.003-06:00

If you see shoes thrown over a utility line, please call 673-7397 or 402-3850 to report the exact location. The Community-Oriented Police staff will work with the utility companies to have them removed.

The Highland Restoration Association Again Receives Neighborhood Investment Program Grant from City

2008-02-21T13:07:00.005-06:00

HRA is pleased to partner with the Shreveport Department of Community Development as a participant in the Neighborhood Investment Program (NIP) for 2008. We have been informed that we will again receive $10,000 for our neighborhood projects, as described in our NIP grant application.

Watch this spot for more information about HRA's 2008 projects and attend the upcoming General Membership meeting to stay informed and get involved.

How Much Do You Know About Highland's Bungalows?

2007-11-07T14:10:00.001-06:00

Bungalow structures or craftsman styling make up about 51% of the total structures in Highland, totaling approximately 544 houses and apartment structures. Of these, most of the structures are one story bungalows with the roof ridge perpendicular to the street and displaying the characteristic multiple gabled roof lines. When HRA Board Members taught the fourth graders at Creswell Elementary about bungalow characteristics, they described the roofs as looking like "a big A," "an upside down V," or in one imaginative child's mind, "a rocket ship."

A few of the houses are in the "camelback" style--a one story house with a partial second story located at the rear. An example can be viewed in the Bungalow Tour Photo Gallery (in the Links section of the HRA Home Page, from Links, see Photo Galleries, select Bungalow Homes of Highland.) Still others may be basic or modified "foursquares" with bungalow porch features. And finally, there are a few fully articulated two story bungalows (one featured in Bungalow Photo Gallery.)

Regardless of the size, the Highland bungalows are generally well detailed as evidenced by the following:
* The majority are sheathed in clapboard, as viewed in Bungalow Photo Gallery (Note: some homes are been covered with siding, reducing upkeep but hiding the historic detailing.)
* Some homes feature shingles found on the front or side gables (See Bungalow Photo Gallery.)
* More rarely, some Highland bungalows are completely sheathed in shingles, in the manner of the California Bungalow (See Bungalow Photo Gallery for example).
* A few have walls that flare at the bottom of the shingled section.

However, the strongest architectural character of Highland's Bungalows is derived largely from porches and distinctive doorways. The porches feature the standard post-atop-pier configuration. Even more distinctive are the screened porches with at least 75 houses having wood screen-holding elements in a variety of geometric shapes and sizes. In Louisiana, these distinctive porches are found almost exclusively in Shreveport, and most of them are in Highland.

Distinctive doorways with designs leaning toward oriental features are prevalent in as many as 100 bungalows. There are two homes that feature the quintessential California bungalow treatment, porch piers and priminent chimneys formed of rocks and/or pebbles. Both homes exemplifying these features can be seen in the Bungalow Photo Gallery.

Neighborhood Honors Highland Heroes

2007-10-29T21:48:00.000-06:00

Over 70 persons from the Highland neighborhood and area churches joined together on October 18 to honor Shreveport's fire fighters and police officers and to visit each other at a delicious covered dish supper.

This group found a good place for eating

Honoring Highland's Heroes Event Chair Diane Mirvis and Area Police Officers

Bungalow Living--The Spirit of Highland Was A Great Birthday Bash

2007-10-29T20:42:00.000-06:00

Below are a few photos from Bungalow Living--The Spirit of Highland. We started with an informative program at the Meadows Museum, sampled great refreshments there, visited with each other and Mayor Glover, then on to the bungalow tour, capping eveything off with birthday cake on a lovely bungalow porch to commemorate HRA's 30th anniversary!

Garage Sale Proceeds Help Fund Fall Events

2007-10-11T22:07:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all who contributed to the Highland Restoration Association Garage Sale Fundraiser held Septeber 29. Over $500 was raised to be used to augment funding for the upcoming Bungalow Events (See Below), with any unused monies going to the general account for day-to-day operations. Special thanks to Sarah and Howard Scott for organizing and hosting the Garage Sale.

Highlights of Community-Wide Health and Safety Fair

2007-10-07T17:50:00.000-05:00

Flu Shots Were Available to Attendees

The Crowd Mingles with the Vendors

A Visit to the Fire Truck

Thanks to the Best of Times Radio Show for Their Remote at Health Fair

HRA Thanks RSVP Volunteers at Health Fair

Vendors Enjoyed the Day

Yoga Instructors Shared with Crowd

HRA Board President Teresa Edgerton with Board Members Vince Mathias and Matt Werner at the Health Fair

More of Our Vendors

The September 22 Community-Wide Health and Safety Fair had over 100 vendors and 500 participants, who gained knowledge about available services to enhance their health and safety. A special thank you to Gary Calligas/Best of Times and VOA Highland Center, event co-hosts, and to the following sponsors: Billedeaux Hearing Center, FreeLife International, Hospiscript Services, Humana Inc, & Snells Limbs and Braces.

Thanks to HRA Board Member and Shreveport photographer, James Eakin, who captured the sights of the Health Fair. See complete photographs of Health and Safety Fair at www.eakinphotography.com (portraits and commercial gallery).

Join HRA for Bungalow Events and Honoring Highland's Heroes in October

2007-09-12T22:57:00.000-05:00

Bungalow Living--The Spirit of Highland
Presented by Highland Restoration Association
and the Meadows Museum of Art

Saturday--October 13, 2007

Location: Meadows Museum of Art
2911 Centenary Boulevard
Shreveport

Day's Agenda:
10:00 am-- Opening remarks
Dr. Kenneth Schwab
President, Centenary College

10:05-- Welcome
Shreveport Mayor Cedric Glover

10:20-- Lecture--Bungalow Living
Guy Carwile, Professor of Architecture
Louisiana Tech University

10:45-- Tax Credits for Historic Homeowener
Alison Saunders
La. Department of Historic Preservation

11:05 -- Refreshments, Question and Answer Period

11:30-- Self-guided Driving Tour, featuring two open homes for public touring
Join us for HRA's birthday cake at the last home on tour!

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
(EVENT SUPPORTED IN PART BY FUNDING FROM THE CITY OF SHREVEPORT, DEPARTMENT
OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT, NEIGHBORHOOD INVESTMENT PROGRAM)
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ALSO: Highland Bungalow Photography Exhibit

During the month of October, an exhibit featuring photographs of Highland Bungalows, by HRA Board Member and local photographer James Eakin, and information about historic bungalows can be enjoyed at the Broadmoor Branch of the Shreve Memorial Library, located at 1212 Captain Shreve Drive, Shreveport, PHONE 869-0120.

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October 18 Honoring Highland’s Heroes
Covered dish dinner with and for the Shreveport Fire & Police Departments
Time: 6:30—8:30 pm
Place: Fire Station #7, Line and Wilkinson
Co-sponsors: First Baptist and Noel Methodist Churches

Summer 2007 Neighborhood Improvement Award Winner Announced

2007-08-25T01:38:00.000-05:00

The Bakers' Daughter Jackie and her son Peyton pose in front of Award Winning House

Not even a fallen leaf mars the lawn and street in front of Jackie and Clenice Baker’s well-kept home at 409 Herndon Street in Shreveport’s Highland neighborhood. As one way of recognizing the Bakers’ positive contribution to the community, the Highland Restoration Association (HRA) has presented them with the HRA Neighborhood Improvement Award for Summer 2007. This award is presented quarterly to a home owner or business that serves as a role model for others.

The Bakers moved to their Highland home in 2003 from Blanchard. “I wanted to live in a historic home,” Clenice Baker said. The interior had been restored by the previous owners but the Bakers have continually enhanced the outdoor living space by adding covered parking and additional storage, and maintaining an immaculate yard.

The Bakers have also put in a bid to purchase the house next to them and the vacant lot next to that house. They want to improve their whole block.

Clenice Baker has mixed family heirlooms with bargain buys to make the interior of the home as inviting as the exterior. “I love the high ceilings and the crown molding in this house,” said Clenice Baker. “When I go into other people’s houses, I sometimes feel like the ceilings are too low and I feel closed in.”

The cottage has three bedrooms, including one for the Baker’s grandchildren who are frequent visitors to their grandparents’ house. When he isn’t caring for his lawn, Jackie Baker can often be found sitting on his porch watching his grandchildren play.

“I want the young people of this neighborhood to appreciate the history of the houses and take care of the old homes in Highland,” said Clenice Baker.

The Highland Restoration Association could not agree more.

Clean Team Event--August 4

2007-08-23T23:51:00.000-05:00

The Highland Restoration Association joined forces with Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal, Highland Area Partnership, Brookshires on Kings Highway, VOA Highland Center and Shreveport Police Department Weed and Seed to co-sponsor the August 4 Highland Clean Team event at Columbia Park. A trailer was loaded with cleaning supplies, i.e., paper products, hand sanitizer, and spray cleanser, that were collected for distribution to neighborhood schools.

This annual event is held in conjunction with the Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal's Highland Neighborhood picnic, which this year featured a water slide for the children, time to explore the new Columbia Park playground equipment, cake walks for all ages and lunch for everyone.

Several HRA board members attended this event and shared their photographs of the event. The pictures tell the story of this worthy and fun-filled event.

Photo Credit: James Eakin, HRA Board Member www.eakinphotography.com

150 Dogs and Cats Receive Rabies Vaccinations

2007-05-12T17:35:00.000-05:00

The Highland Rabies Clinic vaccinated about 150 dogs and cats during the Saturday, May 12 clinic at the VOA Highland Center This event is sponsored by the Highland Restoration Association, Caddo Paish Animal Control, and the Humane Society of NW Louisiana. Watch for information on this blog about dates for a fall clinic.

Concert in the Park Series Kicked Off in Columbia Park May 7

2007-05-12T17:19:00.000-05:00

Highland residents of all ages and species came to Columbia Park Monday evening, May 7, to hear the Sheveport Metropolitan Band perform in SPAR's Concert in the Park Summer Series. This was the first of seven concerts scheduled for May and June in Shreveport parks. Check out SPAR's website at www.myspar.org to find out more about planned summer activities.

Highland area children are enjoying the new playground equipment recently installed at Columbia Park. Many thanks to SPAR Director Shelly Ragle and her staff for this badly needed upgrade. Check out the other park improvements including an access walkway from Rutherford Street into the park. Many Highland walkers enjoy communing with nature as they walk the paved path through the park.

Join HRA in our partnership with SPAR to continue beautification projects in Columbia Park, one of Sheveport's prettiest small parks.

Highland Restoration Association Receives NIP Grant

2007-05-09T23:40:00.000-05:00

HRA was notified that we have been approved for a Phase III Neighborhood Investment Grant from the City of Shreveport's Department of Community Development. We are still waiting to receive our contract and meet with department officials to finalize the grant.

Our proposal targeted the following projects: a Health Fair at Highland Center in September; a neighborhood clean-up in the fall; Clean Team project and picnic in August with Shreveport-Bossier Community Development to help neighborhood schools with classroom supplies; Adopt-a-Park for additional beautification projects at Columbia Park; and a Highland Historic District program that also celebrates HRA's 30 years of service in Highland.

These are ambitious plans. We will need the help of our HRA members and other Highland residents to make them reality. Watch this space for additional information as we develop our plans.

Photos from General Meeting

2007-05-09T23:37:00.000-05:00

April 19 General Meeting

2007-05-09T23:17:00.000-05:00

Thirty-two people enjoyed a lassagna dinner during the Highland Restoration Association General Membership meeting April 19. President Teresa Edgerton outlined HRA accomplishments in 2006 and discussed plans for 2007. The HRA website was unveiled by web designer Ginger Broussard. Watch this site for more 2007 plans.

Welcome to HRA

2007-04-17T10:08:00.000-05:00

Welcome to HRA's new website. This area is where you'll find out about HRA events and news. Check back often.