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Hope y’all survived the recent icy weather without incident. Shorts and sandals at Christmas and froze toes on Groundhog Day. Gotta love Houston.
Our next Civic Club meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 17th, 7pm at the home of Roberto Gomez & Charles Roeseler located at 6646 Park Ln. We will have updates from our Civic Club Committees (including exciting news on the Blue Tile Project) as well as several speakers presenting at the meeting:
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Ramiro Fonseca is the Outreach and Engagement Liaison with Tejano Center and will introduce programs and resources available to the neighborhood.
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Brittaney Becker is the Director of Programs for Barrio Dogs and will talk about their East End organization as well as an anniversary celebration in March (details in this Newsletter).
- Luis Garza is running in the upcoming Democratic primary for Justice of the Peace in Precinct 6, Place 2 (the courthouse located at S.Sgt. Macario Garcia Dr and Avenue K) against incumbent Angela Rodriguez. He has 32 years of experience in the Justice of the Peace Court and requested a few minutes to speak with our civic club.
As a reminder, Idylwood Civic Club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 7pm, except in December when we hold our neighborhood potluck holiday party. We try to rotate the agenda so that every other meeting is open to public officials and other requested speakers. The odd months we reserve for neighbors to participate in our Community Committees and Task Forces.
I know Giving Tuesday has passed, but have you considered paying your $40 dues for 2026? Idylwood Civic Club yearly dues are voluntary but they support neighborhood social events, deed restriction enforcement, and community improvement efforts in Idylwood. Our goal is 50% of households’ participation. I would like to encourage people to contribute more than the $40 dues, particularly if they wish to support certain committees or activities that the Civic Club undertakes. I’d also like to encourage you to contribute extra to help support activities that you find important to you and your family.
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Looking forward to seeing all of our neighbors at the February ICC Meeting!
Doug Lawson
President
Idylwood Civic Club
| | What's Cookin' in Idylwood? | | |
The Centennial Cookbook Committee has been hard at work on the forthcoming Idylwood cookbook, Flavors of Idylwood: A Culinary Stroll Through the Neighborhood, and we are relying on you, neighbors, for contributions!
Please send us your favorite recipe or stories/memories about Idylwood.
There are 4 ways to submit recipes and neighborhood stories:
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Recipes and stories can be sent easily via email (idylwoodcookbook@gmail.com).
- You can drop off a copy of your recipe or story in the mailbox at 6701 Meadowlawn.
- You can text a copy or photo of your recipe to either Amy Lawson (281-250-5001) or Richard Vela (713-202-0950) and we will submit your recipe for you.
- We are also happy to stop by your home and take a photo of the recipe you would like to submit.
This cookbook will bring together not only treasured dishes but also the stories, memories, and traditions that make our neighborhood unique. If you could please take a moment to contribute, we would greatly appreciate it.
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Two pieces of news to share with our neighbors.
From METRO: Regarding concerns with the bus stop opposite Walmart and your inquiry about the pedestrian safety mitigation efforts at Wayside/US90A in front of Walmart, attached is the traffic study conducted by TxDOT that recommends the implementation of the following measures:
- High-Visibility crossing markings with adequate nighttime lighting levels and crossing warning signs.
- Advance signage for pedestrians in crossing
- Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon
According to TxDOT, they are in the process of procuring the equipment needed for construction.
(thanks to Amy Dinn for obtaining the METRO update.)
| If you haven’t already heard, the Alabama Street bridge over I-69 is scheduled for demolition starting February 6th. During this period and in preparation beforehand, there will be significant traffic disruptions including lane and ramp closures. | | |
An incident was reported in December 2025 of a neighbor’s small dog being attacked by unleashed dogs. While attempting to break up the dogs, the neighbor was bitten as well. We would like to remind all Idylwood residents that you are required to keep your dogs secure in your yard and on a leash if out for a walk.
Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances addresses Houston's animal control laws which mandate microchipping, rabies vaccinations, licensing, and restraint (leash laws) for pets. Animals must be controlled on a leash (under 15 ft) or securely confined; running at large is prohibited.
Please report all incidents of dog bites and strays to 311.
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Call these in to 911 (HPD) as well as the Precinct 6 Constables as soon as they occur. At the January SuperNeighborhood meeting, the Constables said they had only 11 reports for all of Precinct 6 (which is a low number for them).
Do not pick up spent gun shells but point them out to police.
(From Idylwood’s Citizen Patrol)
For several weekends in January we've had people park along N. MacGregor, go down to the bayou trail, and shoot 15+ 9mm rounds on the trail between Wildwood and Park, generally 9:15-11:15 PM. We've found the shells on the bayou trail. We appreciate everyone keeping an eye out and calling it in to HPD. Please let us know if you have a description of the people, car, or license plate. Even a partial sighting, with a time, and whether it was an SUV or a car, and which way it came from or departed helps us find it on the other cameras in the neighborhood. Send info to:
jakegoldstein1@gmail.com
HPD is aware and Citizen Patrol requested an Alert Slip so HPD will be patrolling that section of N. MacGregor more for the next week or two. The good news is that these shots are maybe just "practice", they don't seem to be shooting anyone. But any shots are still dangerous, and we don't want the "practice" shots to turn into "real" shots somewhere else.
Kudos to the Citizen Patrol for staying on top of these incidents.
| | Deed Restrictions - Reminder | | |
As a reminder, Section 4.1 of the Idylwood Deed Restrictions describes Single Family Residential Use of each Lot and Residential Dwelling on a Lot. Section C specifically prohibits renting any part of the Residential Dwelling (including any accessory and outbuildings) on a Lot to others for less than one (1) month.
Short-term rentals are prohibited, for example AirBNB.
For more details, download a copy of the deed restrictions here.
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Preservation Houston is the city’s only nonprofit dedicated to advocating for historic preservation across Houston. Since 1978, they’ve championed stronger public policy and worked to protect the irreplaceable sites that tell the full story of our city. With the support of members and volunteers, they’re committed to preserving the architecture and cultural heritage that reflect Houston’s depth and diversity.
They are offering a research session titled “Time & Place: Unlocking the History of Your Home or Building.” Learn to uncover stories behind homes and buildings, whether you’re curious about your own property, researching a neighborhood or simply interested in local history. The first two events this year sold out quickly, but check their Upcoming Events to discover tours, talks and special programs that bring Houston’s history and architecture to life.
| | Barrio Dogs - "Sweet Sixteen" | | |
Senator Alvarado’s office is bringing back a Senate District 6 tradition! The Senior Spring Fling returns on Thursday, March 5th, at the George R. Brown Convention Center, from 11am to 1pm.
Originally established by the late Senator Mario Gallegos, this event has long been a highlight for seniors across the district. Attendees learn about local services, enjoy some food & music and simply spend time with fellow community members.
RSVP by Thursday, February 26th by clicking here.
They’re also looking for volunteers to support this event. If you are interested in volunteering, please click here to register by February 20th.
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- Feb 02: Recycling
- Feb 02: Punxsutawney Phil gets his day (Happy Birthday, Beulah!)
- Feb 06: WALK30 / Winter Olympics opening ceremony
- Feb 08: Super Bowl LX (Go ‘Hawks!)
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Feb 13: WALK30 / Galentine’s Day
- Feb 14: Feast of Saint Valentine
- Feb 15: Quinquagesima Sunday
- Feb 16: President’s Day (Federal Holiday) Recycling may be delayed
- Feb 17: Civic Club Meeting @ 7pm, 6646 Park Ln (Happy Mardi Gras!)
- Feb 17: First Day of Early Primary Voting
- Feb 20: WALK30
- Feb 22: Winter Olympics closing ceremony
- Feb 27: WALK30 / Last Day of Early Primary Voting
- Mar 02: Recycling
- Mar 03: Texas Primary Election Day
- NOTE: Heavy Trash/Tree Waste - pending new On-Demand program update
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If you have something you would like to see published in the Newsletter, drop us a line. Comments or concerns?
Let us know how we're doing.
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Pets are curled up on their favorite blankets and comfy beds
waiting for warmer weather. Let's see who pops out in March!
Submit your pet info by Feb. 15. See info below.
| | Neighbors: Submit your pet(s) to be featured in upcoming newsletters by sending 1-4 photos with a short story about your best friend(s) with the subject line "Pet(s) of the Month" to: phattenbach@gmail.com | | |
Friendly Reminder From The Pets
For the health and safety of all neighborhood pets and people,
please scoop our poop- even along the bayou trails !
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Garden Club 2025-2026 Calendar
Usually the First Saturdays of the Month from 10 am-noon !
(Exceptions may be for Labor Day, New Year's, and Easter-
then it's the 2nd Saturday)
New members are welcome to join!! Yealy dues are only $20.00!!
(Easy to pay: Zelle Treasurer Peggy Wallace (Stark) at: pwallace7820@yahoo.com)
Meeting dates for our 2025-2026 year!
Sept. 6: Hosts: Amanda Cai and Dave Martin-6652 Merry Lane; Speaker: Briony Gannon- Texas Master Naturalist
Oct. 4: Free Field Trip and Guided Tour of Finca Tres Robles;
5715 Canal St, 77011; 10am-noon; if you have not rsvp'd, there is still room to join the tour, just meet the group at the farm at 10 am.
Nov. 1: Hosts: Nathan Reedy and Josh Espinedo - 6670 Meadowlawn; It's a Double Header Meeting !!
Speakers:
1. Jaime and Joseph - Owners of Bloom Handcrafted Beauty Products (using botanicals) AND
2.Fern Specialist Darla Harris will show and tell us all about ferns for our area.
Dec. 6: Hosts: Patricia Hattenbach and Jim McCallum - 1404 N MacGregor Way; Holiday Pot Luck Brunch and Fun Gift Exchange ($15 max)! 10 am - noon; poinsettia pick up from noon - 1:00pm
Jan. 10: Host: Nicole Wood - 1725 Idylwood; Speaker: Janice Brown - Girl on the Grow!
Feb. 7: Hosts: Irma Nino and Carmen Martinez - 6625 Meadowlawn;
Speaker: Chevvy Tang, Master Gardener; Topic: Permaculture
March 7: Fieldtrip: Edith L Moore Bird Sanctuary - 440 Wilchester Blvd 77079;
Members will carpool leaving at 9:50 am
April 11: Host: Amy Dinn and Jake Goldstein - 6724 Sylvan; Speaker: Houston Botanic Garden Representative
May 2: Neighborhood Plant Sale- Host: Sally Lehr - 1704 Idylwood
June, July, & August 2026: members and meetings take a summer break.
For more information, contact the Garden Club President:
Patricia Hattenbach at phattenbach@gmail.com or at 713-724-9608
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Nature News
Gardening Tips from Neil Sperry
This January 17 Chronicle article gives handy tips regarding good uses of yaupon hollies, Nellie R Stevens hollies, and crape myrtles (be sure not to 'murder' them!), help in repairing ailing lawns, setting correct greenhouse temperatures, and protecting a bed of narcissus from the cold.
To learn more, click on the link below:
Tips from Neil Sperry
Great Books for Gardeners and Butterfly Enthusiasts
Gardening and nature books are always great resources for information and inspiration. We can buy them for ourselves or give them as gifts. Check out this listTo learn more about this wonderful program, click on the link below:
Gifts for Gardeners
Road Trip: Experience the new Palo Pinto Mountains State Park!!
Located 80 miles southwest of Fort Worth near the town of Strawn, Palo Pinto Mountains will become the first new state park to open in North Texas in 25 years! It's like a baby mountain with rock formations, rolling terrain, prairies, hardwood forests, a lake, and more!!
To learn more, click the link below:
Newest State Park in Texas
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| Nature In The Neighborhood | | |
A Perfect Posing Pelican !
As you stroll through Idylwood on street level or along the bayou trails, have your camera at the ready! Justin Earnest (Wildwood Way) spotted this pelican at the right moment. Beautiful!! Idylwood is lucky to have great examples of Mother Nature!
If you have a photo of nature in action in Idylwood (animal or plant), send me a photo and a short story to: phattenbach@gmail.com.
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Going Native !!
Tips from Buchanan's Native Plants
Incorporate Texas Natives into Your Landscape!
Native plants. The term has different meanings for different gardeners. There are Texas natives, US natives and those plants that act like natives. All in all, what most of us want in our garden are low maintenance plants that are attractive and functional. Plants that are not invasive and are a benefit to wildlife.
When you plant a garden, it is not just for you – it is a habitat for all living things around you. So, with that in mind, here is our top 10 native plants for Houston that do just that. Many are heat and drought tolerant – cheerfully returning year after year in your garden.
Click here to learn more: Buchanan's Top Ten Native Plants.
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Houston Botanic Gardens - February Events
Gardening For Resilience Symposium
Hear From Our Experts
February 7, 2026 9:30 am - 3:00 pm
Pal-entines Party
Make Friends Night Out Fabulous
February 13, 2026 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Radiant Romance
Light Up Valentine's Night
February 14, 2026 5:30 pm -7:30 pm
Gardens of Texas: In Conversation with Houston Gardeners
Panel Discussion with the Author
February 19, 2026 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm
*Be sure to confirm all events' details & fees by clicking the link below*:
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Vegetable Garden Planting Dates Chart
Do you want to know exactly when to plant vegetables and herbs in your garden? Click here: TAMU Harris County for Texas A&M University's
yearly planting calendar for Harris County.
You may want to print this out for future reference.
Tree Planting Guide For Houston
As our Idylwood trees age, succumb to disease and storm damage, and grow too close to our homes and power lines, we sadly see these marvelous companions disappear. Now is a good time to start researching the best trees for your yard to properly fit your needs, desires and space.
The Houston Area Urban Forestry Council has a fabulous planting guide for trees in the Houston area. This guide is packed with all the basic info you need when considering planting new trees.
Houston Area Urban Forestry Council - Tree Planting Guide
Happy gardening !!
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Thanks for your membership and love of nature!
Let's keep Idylwood beautiful and safe!
Kind regards,
Patricia Hattenbach
phattenbach@gmail.com 713-724-9608
2025-2026 Officers:
President: Patricia Hattenbach
Vice President: Nicole Wood
Secretary: Amanda Cai
Treasurer: Peggy Wallace
Thanks again to Jim McCallum and Patricia Hattenbach for providing the Pet and Yard of the Month articles and photos.
It's wonderful to learn more about our great neighbors!
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Yards of the Month
for February2026
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Freeze Out !! The Creative Cover Up Is In !!
Just when we think we're lucky and the hard freezes will pass us by, Mother Nature steps up with an icy surprise. However, Idylwoodians step up to the challenge to save what we can with whatever we have.
We're a creative bunch!!
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Buchanan's Native Plants
(click the link above for access to their website)
February 2026
Planting
Strawberries can be planted now; hanging baskets are an ideal way to grow the berries to avoid fungus and insects attacking the fruit.
Tomatoes can be transplanted into pots that can be brought inside for frosts and freezes; later on (after last frost) they can be planted in larger pots or in the ground.
Lettuce can be started from seed, for continual harvesting. Set out fresh seeds every 2-3 weeks through the cool season.
Bluebonnets are available for transplanting to make a great spring show. It is past the prime time to set out seeds for bluebonnets.
Pests
Keep an eye out for loopers and aphids on cool-season vegetables and annuals. Use the most organic solution possible for treating these insects. Check for scale insects on ornamentals such as camellias, hollies, and magnolias. Treat with horticultural oil spray while it is still cool.
Lawn
Apply pre-emergent to stop spring weeds such as crabgrass, goosegrass and dallisgrass before they start. Corn gluten meal is an organic approach, while Barricade is a non-organic approach (both products can be found in our plant care shed).
Birds
Lower purple martin houses, clean and repair as necessary. Re-raise and position for martin scouts. Keep 20 feet away from trees and buildings for a clear flight pattern. Goldfinches are feeding. Hang thistle or nyjer seed socks for these cuties. Keep suet feeders filled for hungry winter birds – their natural food sources are slim right now.
Freezes
Continue to keep an eye on the weather and stay informed on night time lows. Have frost cloth on hand for light frosts. If the temperature drops below 32, double wrap tender plants to ensure proper insulation. Avoid using plastic against foliage, but it can be used as the second exterior layer when covering plants. Remove plastic during the day. TIP: Heavy duty clothespins or spare bricks can be used to secure and weight down cloths.
Beds
Lower purple martin houses, clean and repair as necessary. Re-raise and position for martin scouts. Keep 20 feet away from trees and buildings for a clear flight pattern. Goldfinches are feeding. Hang thistle or nyjer seed socks for these cuties. Keep suet feeders filled for hungry winter birds – their natural food sources are slim right now.
Fertilize
Fertilize established trees and shrubs, except Azaleas and camellias with a good all-around organic fertilizer like MicroLife.
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If going out of town, alert your neighbors and request a Vacation Watch from Precinct 6 Constables. Click HERE to access the form.
Please keep an eye out for unusual activity and report to HPD (713) 884-3131 and the Constable's office (713) 274-3400. Please keep your home and cars locked at all times. Report any incidents to ALL authorities;
more reports = more patrols.
To view crimes reported to HPD from through Jan 2025, download the HPD Excel file here and sort by zip code or beat. Our beat is 11H10, which includes several zip codes.
Click here to view the Community Crime Map. Enter 77023 in the search window and filter by date range.
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Jake Goldstein and Steve Palmer co-chair our patrol group and report the group’s collective hours per month to HPD. Please contact Jake if you are interested in volunteering with our citizens patrol group.
Having a patrol presence in the neighborhood is a crime deterrent and a great way to give back to our community.
Please join us! More information on HPD's Volunteer Citizen Patrol is available here.
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Stay Informed!
Check out info about the neighborhood, including downloading a copy of the deed restrictions here.
Report a pothole, get your trash bin repaired or replaced, report a problem with a traffic signal, missed trash pickup, and more.
GRAFFITI ABATEMENT
Call the East End District at 713.928.9916 during business hours with the tagged address, intersection, and colors.
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Stay Connected!
NEXTDOOR.COM
Great way to connect with East End residents. It’s a great place to report or look for a missing pet, announce a garage sales, put out a crime alert, etc. This site is endorsed and its use encouraged by HPD. Sign up here
FACEBOOK
Google Email Group - Idylwood Neighborhood Exchange (residents only)
If you are not currently a member and would like to join, please send an invitation request to Barc.Lee2020@gmail.com.
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Idylwood Officers and Directors 2026
PRESIDENT: Doug Lawson (Merry)
VICE PRESIDENT: Suzy Harrington (Lindy)
TREASURER: Nicole Wood (Idylwood)
SECRETARY: Danika Murphy (Rockbridge)
Directors: Class A (two-year terms ending in December 2027):
Roberto Gomez (Park); Patricia Hattenbach (N. MacGregor); Jeff Hinderer (Park); Tim Johnson (Wildwood); Blake Mudd (Meadowlawn)
Directors: Class B (two-year terms ending in December 2026):
Beth Barrette (Meadowlawn); Chris Casey (Sylvan); Amy Dinn (Sylvan); Jeff Klemm (Merry); Paul Leggett (Merry); Laura Manion (Meadowlawn)
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Post Office Box 9225
Houston, TX 77261-9225
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