trymahjong

I was driving by.....wondering why so many?

I drove by

Reduce GHGs and Waste: Compost by Leonardo Brito, owner Zero Waste Houston (a food waste pick-up and composting service) and Susie Hairston Houston, we’ve got two big problems — climate change and our ever-increasing waste footprint. The good news is, there is something each and every one of us can do to meaningfully address both of those issues right in our own kitchens and at our curbsides: we can prevent food waste and compost what we can’t prevent. The bad news: Houstonians produce "about 10 pounds of trash, per person, per day —more than twice the national average"(Metzger Luke. “How to fix Houston’s Trash Problem.” Houston Chronicle January 13, 2024). Landfills are rapidly filling up, they are wasteful and toxic, and it is increasingly difficult to permit new ones. For obvious reasons, no one wants them in their backyards. All landfills eventually leak toxic materials, poisoning ground and surface water. The water in food waste is, in large, partially responsible for the toxic leachate, providing transportation for the toxins in the landfills to escape. Landfills are the third largest emitters of methane in the US, and food waste in landfills is responsible for 58% of those landfill methane emissions (EPA). The good news: Food waste is the largest single source of landfilled Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) — coming in at 24% of all the MSW that goes to the landfill (EPA). Because of that, preventing food waste and composting what can’t be prevented are two of the most impactful things an individual can do to reduce waste sent to the landfill and reduce GHGs. Preventing food waste is your first step: Food production and distribution use land, water, and labor, all while producing GHG emissions. When we throw food away, we are wasting all of those things that went into making it. Preventing food waste is the best means of helping minimize waste and GHGs. Buy only what you need, store your food in a way that will make it last, eat your leftovers, and give any food you cannot use, that is edible, to organizations such as the Houston Food Bank, Second Servings, Target Hunger, and your local food pantries. Composting the food scraps/waste you can’t prevent is the next step.Lucky for you, the composting movement has been growing in our area over the last few years. It used to be that if you wanted to compost your food waste, you had to do it yourself in your own backyard, but now there are many options. We still encourage you to compost your food waste at home if that works for you, but if it doesn’t, there are a variety of food waste drop-off (commercial and community garden) and curbside pick-up options in the Houston area. What you can do: Support local food waste composting initiatives, participate in food waste drop-offs or sign-up for a curbside service. Previous area drop-off programs have diverted tons of waste from the landfill. In December 2020, Zero Waste Houston, a food waste pick-up and composting business, started partnering with communities in the area to divert food waste. West U’s 8-week food waste drop-off pilot program diverted 12+ tons of food scraps and compostables from the landfill. The Houston Heights Association’s 60+ week drop-off, which began in April 2021 diverted 60+ tons of food scraps. The City of Bellaire 7-week Pumpkin Drop-Off at the end of 2023 diverted 40+ tons of pumpkins from the landfill. But even more impactful than the immediate diversion is the continued diversion in the communities who participated in these drop-off programs after the pilots were over. West U now has over 400 households using curbside composting services and has integrated composting food waste into city and community events. West U also has a preferred vendor program for food waste pick-up services and a page on the city website encouraging residents to compost. 250 of the participants in the Houston Heights drop-off program are now using curbside composting services. The Bellaire Sustainability Board is exploring holding a food waste drop-off pilot. Participate, for free, in the City of Houston’s current food waste drop-off pilot in partnership with Zero Waste Houston. Drop off your food waste until February 29th at four convenient locations: Kashmere Multi-Service Center (Mondays 2-5pm), Acres Homes Multi-Service Center (Tuesdays 2-5pm), Alief Neighborhood Center (Wednesdays 4-7pm), and Sunnyside Multi-service Center (Thursdays 3-6pm). Bring items such as meats, bones, egg shells, fruit, vegetables, dairy, moldy food, coffee grounds, newspapers, greasy cardboard, and any other compostables. Participating in the pilot won’t just divert your few pounds of food waste, it will help us continue to accumulate empirical evidence that composting is a successful and effective way for Houstonians to divert organics from the landfill. Reach out to Houston City Council members: Let them know you want the city to compost food waste. Remind them that other cities in Texas have city-wide food waste composting programs. Austin started a curbside food waste pickup pilot in 2010 for 14,000 homes, which was expanded over the years until they had city-wide curbside food waste pick-up as of 2021 (asutintexas.gov “The City Strives to Compost More.” September 8, 2021; 5:05 p.m.) Since San Antonio started a curbside pick-up pilot program in 2011, it has expanded the program to 368,000 residences and diverted 335,000 tons of waste from the landfill for composting as of 2021 (Pool, Julie, “The Dirt on Curbside Composting in Texas.” Texas Monthly. April 20, 2022.) Fort Worth has been running a food waste drop-off pilot since 2019. Advocate for a SMART (Save Money and Reduce Trash) waste fee, adjusted based on income levels, where residents are charged a fee for the size of the trash can they put out, and that fee pays for recycling and composting programs. Advocate for the development of more certified composting sites within and around the city. One of the limits for composting in our area is the lack of accessible composting facilities that are certified for post-consumer food waste. Currently there is only one— Nature’s Way Resources in Conroe.

Perhaps, gossamer, is a more intriguing branding than I first thought....... I sit and think by JRR Tolkein Of yellow leaves and gossamer in autumns that there were, with morning mist and silver sun and wind upon my hair. In the Gold Room- a Harmony by Oscar Wild ........Her gold hair fell on the wall of gold Like the delicate gossamer tangles spun On the burnished disk of the marigold, oh my.............

I found a discussion on Wordsmith concerning Gossamer Shakespeare no less .......still an unusual choice for hotel branding. I might have suggested Reverie ......🙃 Romeo and Juliet, Act 2, Scene 6 FRIAR LAURENCE These violent delights have violent ends And in their triumph die, like fire and powder, Which as they kiss consume: the sweetest honey Is loathsome in his own deliciousness And in the taste confounds the appetite: Therefore love moderately; long love doth so; Too swift arrives as tardy as too slow. [Enter JULIET] Here comes the lady: O, so light a foot Will ne'er wear out the everlasting flint: A lover may bestride the gossamer <==== That idles in the wanton summer air, And yet not fall; so light is vanity. King Lear, Act 4, Scene 6 EDGAR Hadst thou been aught but gossamer, feathers, air, So many fathom down precipitating, Thou'dst shiver'd like an egg: but thou dost breathe; Hast heavy substance; bleed'st not; speak'st; art sound. Ten masts at each make not the altitude Which thou hast perpendicularly fell: Thy life's a miracle. Speak yet again.

Collaborative Conservation: Exploring Environmental Coalitions and Initiatives in Houston and Beyond Samantha Page CEC Newsletter Editor A coalition or workgroup is a collaborative effort formed by individuals, organizations, or businesses with a shared goal or purpose. These groups come together to address specific issues, advocate for common interests, and work towards positive change. In the environmental context, coalitions often focus on sustainability, conservation, and ecological well-being. If you receive this weekly newsletter, chances are you are aware of Citizens' Environmental Coalition. The Citizens' Environmental Coalition (CEC) is an organization thats mission is to promotes dialogue, collaboration, and education on environmental issues in the Houston/ Gulf Coast region. It serves as a hub for various individuals, nonprofits, and businesses that are passionate about environmental sustainability. As an individual, joining or supporting such coalitions can offer several benefits. It provides a platform to engage with like-minded individuals, share knowledge, and contribute to environmental initiatives. Participation in these groups allows individuals to amplify their impact by collectively addressing environmental challenges. For businesses and/or organizations, involvement in environmental coalitions can enhance corporate social responsibility efforts, improve sustainability practices, and foster positive relationships with the community. Businesses can benefit from networking opportunities, shared resources, and collaborative projects that contribute to both environmental and business goals. Houston has an exceptional network of partnerships and coalitions. Now, let's highlight some other partnerships and coalitions in the Houston area and beyond: Coalition for Environment, Equity & Resilience (CEER): A coalition focused on promoting environmental sustainability, equity, and resilience. Diluvial Houston Initiative: This initiative may focus on addressing issues related to flooding and water management in the Houston area. EarthShare Texas: An organization that connects individuals and businesses with environmental nonprofits, fostering a collective impact on conservation efforts. Environmental Educators Exchange: A coalition focused on promoting environmental education and awareness. Galveston Bay Estuary Program: A partnership working to preserve and enhance the Galveston Bay ecosystem. Gulf of Mexico Alliance: A collaborative effort to enhance and protect the ecological and economic health of the Gulf of Mexico region. Houston Climate Movement: A coalition advocating for climate action and sustainability in the Houston community. Houston Coalition Against Hate: A group working towards creating an inclusive and tolerant community. Houston-Galveston Area Council: A regional organization addressing various issues, including environmental concerns, in the Houston-Galveston area. Partners in Litter Prevention: A coalition dedicated to reducing litter and promoting a cleaner environment. Texan by Nature: An organization fostering conservation and sustainable practices in Texas. These partnerships and coalitions showcase the diversity of efforts aimed at environmental stewardship, community resilience, and social equity in the Houston region. By collaborating with and supporting these groups, and others like them, individuals and businesses can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.

Isn't Taft a T-intersection at Hawthorne? COH has been know to spotlight/highlight/designate secondary " through" streets that are closely located to main through fares. The significance of such a designation I'm not quite sure. Before COVID Stanford was Such a street. BTW Stanford street leads north to many bars and restaurants around Pacific street. If there is an emergency of some sort. HFD sends out Ladder trucks as well as EMT trucks to check out emergency since everyone on ladder truck is certified EMT. Those ladder trucks come from both East and West of Stanford; most times using Westheimer. If those renovations and cement island proposal goes through.....HFD ladder trucks coming from west of Stanford could no longer turn left at Stanford. Food for thought.

I've always thought the Looney Tunes guys never missed a chance to use a few " tongue in cheek" gags ( like finding out the biggest guy you've ever seen is named Tiny) so a devilish dervish named Gossamer, would fit right in. Probably tho when thinking up a name for their boutique hotel, the guys at Mighty Equity were thinking of something romantic, and jazzy like the Cole Porter lyrics: ....a trip to the moon on gossamer wings ....just one of those things

The more retail going in this shopping strip, indicts more pedestrians from North of Westheimer trying to get to them without using their cars. so perhaps another raised crosswalk ( like the one by Katz) should be installed, for pedestrian safety. Stanford street seems a likely candidate . In the lower Westheimer improvement plan; a center island is proposed to prevent left hand turns-- not really sure that provides pedestrian safety as much as a raised crosswalk would. Perhaps a flashing yellow light might help. Hmmmmmm, Stanford goes from Allen Parkway to I 69- someday COH might need a thorough fare like that. Blocking it off with that cement island might be premature.

oh my, Gossamer, you say.....? hmmm I'm wondering if there is a signifant number of kids from looney tunes Saturday mornings in the 60's that see that word and think oh..... BTW, I heard Mighty Equity purchased another property north of Fairview for additional parking. not sure of location.

At least the TIRZ represents monies generated from Montrose businesses goes toward improvements of Montrose itself....... I always thought COH treated Montrose like an in law's adopted step child COH never seemed to approve any CIP project- now that improvements are being done....people ( not necessarily residents) are so crabby. Really, I just want more protection from flooding, a safe, shaded canopy ( from newly installed trees) to bicycle and walk. if you remember that magic bus COH bought that was suppose to be able to produce an algorithm that determined which street conditions were worse and rank them? Uhhuh- that was a bunch of hooey! Not one street within Montrose; made the top ( fix the worst first) 20 list.

I was driving by

Decided to stay parked at home during the freeze. I did some back reading of older threads. I have lived in Montrose 20 years. the TIRZ plan improve Montrose Blvd has gotten lots of back-and forth-back-forth about the trees along Montrose. no one seems to wonder about the "telling" of Montrose history through art placed along the Blvd. 🧐 I'm wondering what is that going to look like........what kind of research did the artist do?.......is there enough distance along Montrose Blvd to tell that story? What exactly will that story be? 🫤 questions.....questions...questions........

Semi predictable Houston weather has had the most horrible heat wave summer in memory, now four destructive freezes in Four years......I'm thinking the COH climate action plan might get tweaked a bit. http://greenhoustontx.gov/climateactionplan/

Winter Recovery and Spring Preparation: A Guide to Yard Maintenance in Texas Samantha Page CEC Newsletter Editor As winter recedes and Texas residents emerge from the grip of a hard freeze, it's time to turn attention to yard maintenance. The harsh winter conditions in Texas can take a toll on landscapes, but with proper care and strategic planning, your yard can not only recover but thrive. This article will guide you through the post-hard freeze recovery process and help you prep your yard for spring using native Texas plants that are resilient to the weather. Post-Hard Freeze Yard Recovery: Assessing the Damage: After a hard freeze, it's crucial to assess the extent of the damage. Look for signs of frost damage on plants, including wilted or discolored leaves. Trim back any dead or damaged branches to encourage new growth. Soil Inspection: Check the soil for any signs of compaction or damage. If the soil is compacted, aerate it to improve drainage. Consider adding organic matter to replenish nutrients and enhance soil structure. Watering Carefully: Adequate watering is essential, especially for plants that may have suffered dehydration during the freeze. Be mindful of overwatering, as waterlogged soil can exacerbate damage. Watering early in the day allows the soil to absorb moisture before temperatures drop again. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around plants to insulate the soil and protect the roots from temperature fluctuations. Mulch also helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prepping Your Yard for Spring with Native Texas Plants: Choosing Resilient Native Plants: Opt for native Texas plants that are well-adapted to the local climate. Some resilient options include Texas Sage, Black-Eyed Susan, and Greg's Mistflower. These plants are not only hardy but also attract local wildlife, promoting biodiversity. Planting Timing: Plan your planting for spring, ensuring that the risk of frost has passed. Native plants are well-suited to Texas weather conditions and, once established, require less maintenance than non-native varieties. Proper Planting Techniques: Follow recommended planting guidelines, including digging holes of appropriate depth, spacing plants adequately, and providing proper irrigation during the establishment period. Regular Maintenance: Regularly prune and remove dead or diseased plant material to promote overall plant health. Native Texas plants often require less maintenance but benefit from periodic care to encourage robust growth. Water Conservation: Implement water-conservation practices by grouping plants with similar water needs together. Consider using rain barrels to collect and store rainwater for irrigation. Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping: Encourage biodiversity by incorporating plants that attract local wildlife such as birds and butterflies. This not only enhances the beauty of your yard but also contributes to the ecosystem. If you are unsure where to start you can always check out organizations such as the Native Plant Society of Texas for informative events and seminars. By taking proactive steps to recover from the winter freeze and strategically planning your spring landscaping with native Texas plants, you can create a resilient and vibrant yard. Embracing the natural beauty of Texas through native plants not only ensures a thriving landscape but also promotes sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Happy New Year from Buffalo Bayou Partnership! As we reflect on last year’s milestones, from community celebrations to groundbreakings, we are grateful to the dedicated individuals, partners, and supporters who play a pivotal role in our success. Thank you for believing in the potential of Buffalo Bayou as a unifying and transformative force for Houston. With our sights set on Buffalo Bayou East, our master plan for the area east of downtown Houston, we are hard at work. In 2024, Houstonians can look for signs of progress along the bayou in Greater East End and Fifth Ward neighborhoods, where we will break ground on green space projects and new trail segments and complete the first phases of our mixed-income housing as well as a pocket park along the Japhet Creek tributary on the north side of the bayou. In addition to these exciting steps, BBP public programs continue with banner events such as the Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta, NIGHT LIGHT, and Summer Species. The Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern remains active as well, with Rachel Rossin’s thrilling new art installation on the horizon. Read on for more of what to expect along Buffalo Bayou in the coming weeks and beyond.

I attended the CWPIP Tuesday. These were the COH crime stats presented. a semi humorous moment occurred when Chief Finner related HPD noticed a decrease in crime during the big football games shown on TV and presumption that Houston criminals stay home to watch those games on their TV 🙃

Hmmmmmm OKC is my hometown, I've been away 47 years.......but I do get to visit. That Devon building downtown is just enough tall enough over the original OKC skyline as to remind me of a huge middle fingered fist for all see.....now maybe, with this new building, the skyline might look like a hippie peace sign.🙃

No.......not really suggesting really just stumbling my way to source a way to save this historic structure. when it's gone......it's gone

So no-- no one thinks there should be an official residence and this property that would be great for that.....is probably lost. sigh

Any hope for this becoming Official Home of Houston Mayor?

Oh my i've been watching his great old house on Straford street in Avondale -rise from the ashes- it's finally finished and looks great.

wonder if Bryan Caswell ever bounced back?

What a fabulous entry way.

It's nice that some activity has begun.... worrisome that what ever $$$ spent on greenery alongside Montrose Blvd will probably be razed or removed when the renovations by the Montrose TIRZ gets down that far.