trymahjong

Todays chronicle........guess the need for awnings is gaining in popularity....

As long as they don't get Carrie's away

I might be leaning toward this type of variety?

I drove by.... I saw the house renovation but now wonder what is planned for median

There are plenty in small parking lots outside Columbias Football Stadium in northern Manhattan.

There are these contraptions.......

Residents speaking at Neartown mentioned "heat islands" "saving large canopy trees" developers have plans for "lots of greenery"......maybe installing bigger than usual new trees at corners of property. Also there isn't a plan for one parking garage- cars will be individually double stacked 0n surface lot. The Collective has 100+- parking places dedicated towards .....well...the public- located 2 blocks away.

North Montrose Civic was host COH/PWE was there Downtown TIRZ did some of the sewage repairs- there were three there district C council women there Other people, who had a little experience in civic community advocacy were invited honestly that's all I know

SCI yesterday, hosted a "meet and greet Q&A" with local residents concerning their move to former KHOU location. Guess the sewage problem is a bone of contention, even though SCI did so some repairs.

Not the way you would expect.......there were only a very limited residents that lived very close by. The potential of deliveries, over lighting, and deliveries. These questions seemed adequately answered. Seemed like folks were very pragmatic........" the devil you know" kind of thing. But "setting a precedent "..... 7 story hotel next door to cottages and bungalows is a scary thing in older neighborhoods. for myself.....I want a best case scenario => this developer wants to be part of Montrose....the reality and the myth, Iguess. But being listened to is HUGE for neighbors, having a few concessions made? Neighbors are charmed!

Just a few things I heard at Neartown meeting: Still 57 rooms ($200-$800 a night)- still seven stories but one side of building is taller than other. Developers won't go for LEED certification. might offer " neighborhood memberships" for discounts on hotel rooms or access to swimming pool etc The trucks that replenish food and drinks will be able to pull in completely off street no huge lighting poles they will willingly abide by noise ordinances cars will be individually stacked in parking lot no huge meeting room nor restaurant, instead smaller venues inside and outside areas will be offered.

World Nature Conservation Day Every year on July 28th, people around the world come together to observe World Conservation Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving and protecting our natural resources and ecosystems. This day serves as a reminder of the critical role each individual plays in safeguarding the environment for future generations to come. World Nature Conservation Day is an excellent opportunity to celebrate and contribute to the preservation of our natural world. Here are some meaningful ways to celebrate:  Plant a Tree: Trees play a crucial role in combating climate change and providing habitat for wildlife. Organize or participate in a tree-planting event in your community or plant a tree in your garden to mark the occasion. Clean Up the Environment: Organize or participate in a beach cleanup, river clean-up, or neighborhood cleanup. Removing litter from natural areas helps protect wildlife and prevents pollution. Educate and Advocate: Use the day to raise awareness about environmental issues. Share information on social media, participate in community discussions, or organize an educational event to inform others about the importance of conservation. Support Conservation Organizations: Contribute to conservation efforts by donating to reputable organizations that focus on protecting wildlife, forests, oceans, or other critical habitats. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Embrace the three Rs of environmental conservation in your daily life. Reduce your waste, reuse items whenever possible, and recycle materials appropriately. Conserve Water: Be mindful of your water usage. Fix leaky faucets, take shorter showers, and collect rainwater for outdoor plants. Remember, every effort, no matter how small, contributes to the greater cause of nature conservation. By celebrating World Nature Conservation Day, you are not only appreciating the beauty of our planet but also taking steps to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for all living beings.

Perhaps a conscious was developed of the diesel pollution......?

The bike light crossing finally unveiled

CitizensNet Newsletter: NEIGHBORHOODS | 07-17-2023 COMPLETE COMMUNITIES UNIVERSITY FALL 2023 LEADERSHIP TRAINING CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Application Deadline - August 18, 2023 The Department of Neighborhoods (DON) invites aspiring leaders to apply for enrollment in the Complete Communities University (CCU) Fall 2023 leadership training course. The 8-week course is designed for emerging leaders committed to making a positive impact in their communities. The course will run September 20 to November 8, 2023, with classes to be held virtually and in person on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Virtual classes will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, and in-person classes will be held at the City Hall Annex, 900 Bagby Street. The CCU curriculum focuses on strategies for promoting civic engagement to empower residents and vitalize neighborhoods. The course explores methods and techniques for engaging residents in civic activities, volunteer service, and government affairs as constituents and voters. Topics of discussion include how city and county government function and relate to neighborhoods and how to effectively access City services and community resources. The classes are led by DON staff with extensive knowledge of Houston communities and feature presentations by City department and community-based subject experts. CCU participants will be selected through a competitive application review process. Selection criteria will include commitment to promoting civic engagement, leadership skills, experience, and potential. Diversity and representation of all City Council districts will also be considered. Apply today! Applications will be accepted July 17 to August 18, 2023. For application guidelines and forms, go to www.houstontx.gov/neighborhoods/ccu.html. For questions, call 832-393-1061 or email CCUniversity@houstontx.gov.

The Citizens environmental Coalition offered those tips on how to beat the heat. CEC also does this: Citizens' Climate Lobby - Houston Central Chapter Citizens’ Climate Lobby is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, grassroots advocacy organization empowering people to experience breakthroughs exercising their personal and political power. Our chapter is just one of hundreds of chapters across the world working to create the political will for a livable world. We’ve seen firsthand how passionate citizens who are well-trained, organized by district and with a good system of support can more than influence the political process.  

Beat the Heat - Stay Cool During Scorching Temperatures! Did you know that choosing natural spaces over concrete can make a significant difference in temperature? Concrete absorbs and retains heat, contributing to the formation of heat islands in urban areas (learn more here). By seeking out green spaces like parks or gardens, you'll experience cooler temperatures and enjoy the added benefit of being close to nature. So when the sun's rays feel relentless, there's no need to suffer - embrace the power of nature to stay cool! Seek out the shelter of leafy trees to escape the direct heat of the sun. Plus, shade provides a tranquil and inviting atmosphere to relax and unwind. So, grab a good book or a picnic blanket and find the perfect shady spot to spend your summer days. Maybe one of our favorite Houston natural spaces, found below: Baytown Nature Center Buffalo Bayou Partnership Discovery Green Conservancy Exploration Green Friends of Mandell Park Friends of Woodland Park Houston Parks & Recreation Houston Parks Board Herman Park Conservancy Houston Arboretum & Nature Center Houston Botanic Garden Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens Nature Discovery Center White Oak Bayou Association Apart from shade, there are a few more tricks up our sleeves to combat the heat. Staying hydrated is crucial, so keep a reusable water bottle handy and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Opt for loose, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton, as they allow air to circulate around your body, preventing overheating. So, don't let the summer heat get you down! Seek refuge outside, stay cool, and enjoy the beauty of summer!

With the heat the way it is; I'm hoping for some sort of "neighborhood $$$ swim membership " offered for that rooftop pool.

I want to post this here also really COH is overextending trying to deal with lots and lots of details here and there..... why not have a "civilian board "that makes decisions....... Well it's a shame there is no neighborhood........Audubon historic or avondale historic or whatever...that would have a bit of influence on how new residences are built. Businesses are one thing- but new residences that paid tribute to older architecture would make for a more pleasing aesthetic. Or perhaps more of a bite back on the cost payback.......it would be great if it were more difficult/costly to tear down useful houses and throw up 6cheap townhomes on same property. This is what( my historic home preservation tunnel vision?) I've observed within Avondale anyway.

Well it's a shame there is no neighborhood........Audubon historic or avondale historic or whatever...that would have a bit of influence on how new residences are built. Businesses are one thing- but new residences that paid tribute to older architecture would make for a more pleasing aesthetic. Or perhaps more of a bite back on the cost payback.......it would be great if it were more difficult/costly to tear down useful houses and throw up 6cheap townhomes on same property. This is what( my historic home preservation tunnel vision?) I've observed within Avondale anyway.

Hmmmm I guess I'm confused. I think there is a department within COH that might have dealt with the developer concerning requirements of renovating within an Historical designated district before now...........seems bewildering that developer waited so long. .....or that no one tattled on developer for building before getting permission-. There is something else that confuses me. I live within Avondales West historic designated district. I have never been aware that a committee of people function under that name=>Avondale West Historic District. So I was confused when your source explained that approval of Audubon Historic District was needed. Is there a group of people that function under that name?

Getting approval from Audubon Historical District.....what will that entail?

Happy National Forest Week! If you are like many, forests are one of your favorite places on the planet. From the emerald green moss-filled forests of the Pacific Northwest to the humid and lush wildlife-filled rainforests of South America, some of our most precious places are forests. Even in Houston, we are fortunate to have forest within an easy drive. Just an hour north on I-45, you can hit the Lone Star Hiking Trail and savor the wonderful woodlands of the Sam Houston National Forest. Head eastbound and you’ll be able to travel deep into the piney woods – a scene that many would have a hard time believe is part of Texas. Yet, despite how tranquil and special these habitats are, they, like so many life-giving ecosystems are under threat. Deforestation in some of the most pristine locations around the globe continues at an alarming rate. Illegal logging jeopardizes many protected and exotic species. Even here in the U.S., there is ongoing controversy regarding commercial efforts seeking to expand logging access into some of the young and old growth forests, such as the Tongass National Forest. But there is reason for hope! Recent news headlines proclaimed a 34% reduction in deforestation in the Amazon during newly-elected President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s first six months. And in Sumatra, the World Wildlife Fund reports that a unique three-way partnership aimed at protecting forest habitat while providing sustainable livelihoods for local inhabitants has been successful at reversing deforestation within the biodiversity rich area known as Bukit Tigapuluh (or Thirty Hills). With that in mind, we hope you’ll take a moment to appreciate our forests near and far, and to support the many organizations that work to protect them. Below are a few organizations within the CEC community that work to help protect our state’s forests: Big Thicket Association Friends of Woodland Park Herman Park Conservancy Houston Arboretum & Nature Center Houston Parks & Recreation Houston Parks Board Houston Wilderness Sierra Club: Houston Student Conservation Association Trees for Houston U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service