The latest WHCA newsletter is a LITH Special Edition with all the details about LITH. It has been printed. Distribution by the team of volunteer block captains happened over the past few days.
If you didn't receive a copy you can click here to download a color PDF version.
Questions or comments about the newsletter can be directed to: communications@woodland-Heights.org.
Questions concerning the WHCA finances can be directed to treasurer@woodland-heights.org.
Plans have been in the works for several years to make the southeast entrance to the Woodland Heights neighborhood (Houston Ave, White Oak Dr., Quitman) more attractive and to make the connection between the White Oak Bayou Hike and Bike Trail to Woodland Park safer for pedestrians and cyclists. We are proud to say that the proposed project has received city (specifically the Dept. of Public Works) approval, and a public community meeting will be held to present the design early next month.
In partnership with the Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority/TIRZ-5, Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD), Houston Parks Board (HPB) the Woodland Heights Civic Association (WHCA ), and the Greater Northside Management District (GNMD); the Friends of Woodland Park (FWP) are sponsoring a community meeting for a presentation and discussion of the preliminary design plan. This project is part of the Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority/TIRZ 5 Capital Improvement Plan.
The meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 4, 2017 at the Woodland Park Community Center at 7:00 PM: 212 Parkview St. one block north of the Houston Avenue and White Oak Dr. intersection.
Won’t you join us to learn about this exciting and significant improvement for the neighborhood?
Want to know what's going on around Woodland Heights? The November General Meeting will be Tuesday, Nov 14th at 7pm in the cafeteria at Hogg Middle School at 1100 Merill.
The major focus of the meeting will be a presentation by Steph McDougal and David Jordan, previewing the City of Houston project to develop historic district guidelines for Woodland Heights. Note that this project is separate and distinct from the prior effort, which focused on Houston Heights.
Steph McDougal from COH will outline the process, which is just getting underway. David Jordan, a WH resident, has been tracking the Historic District Guidelines Project on behalf of WHCA. Together, they will provide valuable insight about the significance of the Design Guidelines, and your ability to have input into their creation.
Only a portion of Woodland Heights is within the designated Historic District. Need to know if your home is included? See the city Historic preservation web site.
The agenda also includes updates from each of the WHCA board members.
The general meetings are your opportunity to hear what's happening, and have your voice heard. We look forward to seeing you there!
Questions about the organizations finances can be directed to treasurer@woodland-heights.org.
A recently completed study funded by the Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority (aka City of Houston TIRZ 5) presents options for the natural restoration of Lower White Oak Bayou. These options are alternatives to the present concrete lining. The area studied (“project area”) is defined on the map as the area along White Oak Bayou between Taylor/Watson and Hogan.
The restoration project would require between $30 million to $60 million, and could require many years to complete.
In its press release describing the report, the Flood Control District states:
“All options resulting from the study include removal of the partial concrete lining in this reach of White Oak Bayou. The study evaluated alternatives based on their potential for reducing flood risks, as well as their benefits for the environment, recreation and economic uplift. The cost and potential timeline for each alternative also were evaluated. (Alternatives that would increase flood risks were not considered.)”
Next steps for any longer-term project stemming from the study would include identifying stakeholders to participate in, and to fund, a future restoration project.
For more information, visit http://hcfcd.org/press-room/current-news/2017/10/study-compares-options-for-lower-white-oak-bayou-channel-restoration.
When the Little Free Library on the corner of Highland and Michaux (946 Highland) opened for service in 2014, the first books donated came from the collection of the library’s founder, Laura Meadows. Her title in the Little Free Library movement is “steward.”
The Little Free Library movement began in 2009. Today, there are some 50,000 Little Free Libraries in the U.S., and in 70 other countries. In addition to Laura’s library, there are two others within the boundaries of Woodland Heights, with others located in nearby neighborhoods.
The operating concept of the libraries is simple: “Take a book. Leave a book.” Stewards like Laura operate the exchanges and maintain the libraries’ premises (usually, but not necessarily, a wooden box). Laura’s library is decorated for Halloween and has recently undergone roof repairs and a refreshing paint job inspired by the Jackson Pollock technique.
Creativity and innovation by way of community involvement have kicked in for Laura’s library. When she sorts donations, she finds not only books, but other objects as well, especially toys. “It’s become like a toy exchange,” she said. Toys that have been donated range from GI Joe dolls, stuffed animals and toy vehicles to finger puppets. People sometimes leave videos. Donated books have not been limited to English. There have been books donated in Spanish, French and Korean, among other languages.
In the sorting process, Laura sets aside materials that are not suitable for placing in a Little Free Library. She does not circulate books of a religious nature or X-rated publications, for example.
When someone leaves an actual library book belonging to a public library (we cannot refer to such a book as a donation), Laura tries to get the book back to its proper place. Books belonging to Houston Public Library and Harris County Public Library systems have turned up in her library, as have books from other states.
Due to the volume of donations, Laura has added “an annex” (a box on her front porch) to house classics. An anonymous library supporter installed a set of steps to help small kids reach the library’s entrance. Big kids like to visit the library, too. “Skateboarders stop on their way to wherever they’re going and check out the library,” Laura said.
Children’s books are donated and withdrawn in greatest quantity. Weekly circulation (book turnover) is normally 20 to 30 units. “But occasionally, I get an entire library.” That happened when a woman donated the library that had belonged to her recently deceased mother.
Anyone may take a book from her library, but what you may not do is request a “hold,” a service provided by Houston Public Library. If you are hoping to find a favorite title or genre, it will be up to you to visit the Little Free Library frequently.
Little Free Library is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization, whose mission is to promote a sense of community, reading for children, literacy for adults and libraries around the world. Most Little Free Libraries are placed in front yards, parks, gardens and other easily accessible locations. They are built to withstand weather and to hold 20 to 100 books. To learn more, visit littlefreelibrary.org.
P.S. - In the pictures you'll notice a small stool. This was donated by a patron of the little library. They needed it to get access to the books, and felt that other might appreciate it as well. It's become a permanent feature of the installation.
Beautifully done garden at Kurt and Jackie’s bungalow at 707 Wendel. The purple plumes if the salvia leucantha with it’s silver foliage is beautifully offset by several different native grasses and fox tail ferns. Lantana and moss rose add more color. All of their plantings have low water needs which is perfect for our Texas heat.
By now you know that this year's Lights-in-the-Heights Gala features a toy drive. We've partnered with the City of Houston Fire Department's Operation Stocking Stuffer to collect toys for families in need across Houston.
The LITH Gala & Toy Drive is presented by Boulevard Realty, on November 4th, at the fabulous new Elan Heights building at 825 Usener.
Tickets to the Gala are just $75 and an new unwrapped toy.
Your support of the Gala sustains Lights-in-the-Heights, the cities' premier holiday festival, and helps put smiles on children's faces all across the city.
Big Blue Whale Toys & Curiosities on 19th street have offered to match any toys purchased for contribution to the Gala. Visit their shop and choose from their excellent selection of toys and games. Tell them that you're buying them for the LITH Gala and they'll match your purchase! That's two smiles for the price of one! It's a chance to do twice a much good.
Gala tickets are available from the Woodland Heights web site at: https://www.woodland-heights.org/
State Representative Carol Alvarado will be holding a State of the District breakfast on Saturday, October 14th, 2017 at 9:30 am. The event will be held at:
Houston Community College Southeast
Learning Hub Auditorium
6815 Rustic, Bldg D
Houston, TX 77087
Topics to be discussed include:
For more information call 713-649-6563 or email district145.alvarado@house.state.tx.us.
In these extraordinary times of Houston’s recovery, Woodland Heights Civic Association hopes to promote the strength of Houstonians and help get everyone’s life back to normal. Therefore the Lights-in-the-Heights Gala, the event that funds Lights-in-the-Heights, will still go on!
Mindful of the devastation thousands of Houstonians have suffered, we had reservations about diverting fundraising dollars away from Hurricane Relief. So, the LITH Gala will be abbreviated, this year.
Gala tickets have been reduced to $75, and all who attend are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy. Toys collected will be distributed to families in need through the City of Houston Fire Department’s “Operation: Stocking Stuffer”.
Hoping to reduce the burden on already stressed businesses, we are eliminating the raffle and silent auction, and limiting our requests for in-kind donations.
The Gala and Toy Drive is presented by Boulevard Realty. We are deeply grateful for their continued support. Other returning sponsors will include Sonoma Wine Bar & Restaurant, Kagan Cellars, Eureka Heights Brewing Co, and Pennebaker, Inc. All of our sponsors are more than just monetary or in-kind donors; each has shown genuine love for our community. We are profoundly thankful for their support.
The 2017 LITH Gala and Toy Drive will be a gathering of good company, wonderful food and drink, and a joyful celebration of the holiday season! Please join us on Saturday, November 4th, from 7:00 until 11:00, at Elan Heights—825 Usener Street at Watson. Valet parking included in ticket price, gratuity greatly appreciated
Tickets can be purchased in the store at the Woodland Heights web site.
The very attentive among you may have noticed that the most recent Yard-of-the-Month story differs from past YOTM stories. It's the first showing of a new Yard-of-the-Month sign.
The WHCA wanted to let the neighborhood know that our old Yard of the Month sign for the neighborhood, which served us so well for many years, has finally given up the ghost. The new design is based upon an arts and crafts drawing featuring the Dard Hunter rose that was so popular at the turn of the century when our neighborhood was built.
If you have any ideas about homes to be considered for Yard-of-the-Month please send your suggestions to beautification@woodland-heights.org.
Yard of the month goes to Eric and Bianca at 931 Bayland for their sculpted shade garden. It is filled with English ivy ground cover, mature well trimmed live oaks, and artfully arranged river stones, sand stone pavers, and gravel. The curved front sidewalk and cleverly constructed raised beds only add to it's Zen simplicity.
WHCA celebrates the National Night Out on the Norhill Esplanade, Tuesday, October 3rd from 6-9pm. The event features:
We hope to see you there!
It's been heartening to see communities across the city rise up to help those in need. Here's just one little example, copied from a post on Next Door.
"Hey neighbors! The Craigs and the McConns are having a lemonade and brownie stand this afternoon starting at 2:30. We'll be in front of the Craigs' house at 943 Omar. All proceeds will go to benefit victims of Hurricane Harvey. Please stop by, say hi and get some treats. See you soon!"
Pictured above (left-to-right) are; Mila Craig, Arianna Espana, Hollis McConn & Kellen McConn.
According to neighbor Beth Allen-Brock,"The brownies were delicious!"
Everyone helps in their own way, and every little bit helps.
It was bound to happen. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey there have come to be some rumors and even outright scams with respect to various issues facing people impacted by the storm. Fortunately, FEMA has assembled a web page with some great guidance on these issues.
Here are a couple of key takeaways from this guidance:
Rumor: There are reports individuals must file a flood insurance claim before Friday, September 1 because a new Texas law goes into effect that day and all claims filed after Sept. 1 would be negatively impacted.
This rumor is FALSE. (August 30)
Texas State “House Bill 1774,” passed by the 85th Texas Legislature, does not affect flood insurance policies or claims. Flood insurance is provided through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which was created by Congress through the passage of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. The NFIP is a federal program subject to federal law, so this new Texas state law will have no impact on NFIP policyholders.
Rumor: There are reports Texas residents are being told (via robo-call) their flood premiums are past due and in order to have coverage for Hurricane Harvey they need to submit a payment immediately to a website.
This rumor is FALSE. (August 30)
Insurance companies and agents selling flood insurance policies do not use this process to communicate with customers about their flood insurance policies. In fact, if your payment is past due, your insurance company will send you several pieces of mail 90, 60, and 30 days before the policy expires.
If you receive a call regarding your flood insurance policy:
Hang up the phone. Don't press 1 to speak to a live operator or any other key to take your number off the list. Just hang up.
Then contact your insurance agent or insurance company immediately to verify the information. Or call 1-800-638-6620 if you have a policy with NFIP Direct
Members of the Heights Garden Club were guests on July 8 for a garden tour at the home of Carolyn and Richard Hall on Bayland. Richard is a known in Houston and along the Gulf Coast as an artist, author, naturalist and conservationist. He and Carolyn are enthusiastic “urban farmers.”
During their visit, guests were able to experience the “farm” while gaining hands-on learning.
Following are some of the practical lessons and demonstrations Richard shared.
- Rosie Walker, Woodland Heights resident since 1975.
According to its website, “The purpose of the Heights Garden Club is to nurture an active gardening community in the greater Heights area of Houston, to share the love and knowledge of gardening in the peculiarities of our Gulf Coast climate, and to restore, improve, and protect our neighborhood’s environment through educational programs, demonstration gardens, and by promoting the incorporation of organic practices, native plants and edibles into the urban landscape. And have fun doing it.” For more information, visit http://www.heightsgardenclub.com.
Richard Hall is a resident artist at The Silos at Sawyer Yards, across I-10 from Woodland Heights. To learn more about his work and background, visit http://www.thesilosonsawyer.com. Then scroll down to #134 (the location of his studio).
Yard of the month goes to Mary and Peter at 402 Euclid at the corner of Florence. Their yard is a beautiful blend of old and new with a mature Yaupon Holly with old fashioned Aspidistra underneath, several blooming crepe myrtle trees, holly ferns, and some great climbing fig ivy. The wisteria on the front fence is in vibrant bloom which stands out beautifully next to the foliage of their cypress tree. Looking forward to going back in the fall when the maple tree turns colors along with the red fruit of the nandina.
I get overwhelmed with the number of choices there are these days for eating healthy. Prepared meals in the supermarket, delivery services of prepped ingredients, personal shoppers who will go by your list and either have it ready for pickup or deliver it to the house… So many options! But we keep returning to an old favorite each Wednesday afternoon- Central City Co-op- in their current home inside Kindred Church in Montrose at 2515 Waugh Drive.
Order pick up is available currently at 6 different locations each Wednesday, including EQ Coffee on Heights Boulevard and Heights of Health on Frazier. Travis Elementary parents can also pick up in the Community Room during the school year. This gives Woodland Heights households a lot of options. Our family still prefers to go to the Waugh storefront, where the kids can learn from the volunteers and maybe meet a farmer, and the adults can ask about recipes or share stories with old and new friends.
Central City began in Houston in 2001 when a group of friends, led by local vegan food pioneer Pat Greer, decided to order boxes of organic produce from a local distributor and a small farm in Wharton (Gundermann Farms), dividing up the bounty on the front porch of Pat’s house.
One of the best things for our own family has been the flexibility of the Co-op. For our annual membership fee of $60 (which you can earn in sweat equity by volunteering), we have access to the weekly share of farm produce in 3 different sizes, plus 2 different sizes of fruit share. The “share” is the portion of the weekly buy that Co-op staff put together each week. They work with 12 different local farms plus a supplier of national organic produce. Each week, they select for seasonality and freshness. Sometimes that means a lot of eggplant and greens, but the national supplier is a great source of things that don’t tolerate July in Texas.
Because the shares come in different sizes and we are not obligated to purchase every week, it’s easy to tailor our purchase to our family’s needs. More fruit for lunchboxes for school and work when we need them, and a smaller share when we travel or know we will eat out a lot.
In recent years, the Co-op has added locally sourced meats, farm eggs and cheeses from the Houston Dairymaids. Seasonally, they also have fresh bread baked by the volunteers at Kindred Church. Co-op volunteers also make jams from unsold fruit. Jars of fig, muscadine grape, citrus and strawberry come and go with the seasons. Volunteers also staff the co-op. I served on the board and worked in operations for many years, though now I serve primarily as a jam making volunteer.
Being members of Central City Co-op has provided our family with food and friendship for 15 years. Our children have learned to eat a wide variety of vegetables, and appreciate freshness and seasonality. I have learned to cook things I had never seen before, and learned so much about our local farmers and food entrepreneurs. We encourage you to visit the co-op either in person on Wednesdays from 9 to 6 at 2515 Waugh street inside the fellowship hall at Kindred Church, or any time online at www.centralcityco-op.com
- Tiffany Tyler, Woodland Heights resident since 1997
