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October is here and we will be celebrating as a neighborhood with National Night Out (October 7), the Fall Holiday party (October 25) and a party to celebrate the opening of the Dog Park (date uncertain, possibly November). Our next Civic Club meeting will be held on October 21 at 7pm at the home of Diane & Dick Schenke, 6715 Fairfield St. This meeting will be a committee meeting, which means that the majority of the time will be spent working with a Committee of your choice: Community Improvements, Social Events, and the Centennial.
Good news! The Community Improvements Committee has just received notice that we qualified for a matching City grant to install blue and white tiles in the sidewalks. (See note below). Come out and get involved in the many exciting projects underway in our neighborhood.
Looking forward to seeing you on October 21.
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Best Regards,
Diane Schenke
President
Idylwood Civic Club
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The Election Committee is looking for neighbors to serve on the Idylwood Civic Club's Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 term. We are seeking people for the following positions:
President: Presides at meetings of the Civic Club and the Board of Directors. Appoints chairs for standing committees (eg, Election Committee) and special committees. Makes a report to the Club at the Annual Meeting in November. Serves a 1-year term.
Vice President: Performs the duties of the President should they be absent. Becomes President should the current President resign or become ineligible for membership. Serves a 1-year term.
Director: Attends Board of Directors meetings and votes on actions to be taken by the Board. Serves a 2-year term.
Names for the ballot must be received by the October 21 Civic Club meeting. Terms will begin immediately after election results at the November Civic Club meeting.
If you are interested in serving in one of these positions, or if you want more information, feel free to contact me by email (stevepalmer101@gmail.com) or phone (832-423-2910).
Steve Palmer
Chair, Elections Committee
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Recent incidents of break-ins and thefts in the Idylwood neighborhood have led to heightened vigilance and cooperation among residents. Residents are strongly encouraged to report any suspicious activities and crimes, ensure their homes are secure, and utilize security devices such as doorbell cameras.
The community is urged to share relevant video footage with authorities, remain alert to unoccupied properties, and communicate through the Google Idylwood Neighborhood Exchange to enhance safety. Law enforcement has increased patrols and provided clear channels for reporting both emergencies and non-emergencies.
How to report:
For emergencies, call 9-1-1.
For any non-emergency situation that requires the response of a Houston police officer, call 713-884-3131 or report online: https://www.houstontx.gov/police/online_report.htm
You can also contact Constable’s non-emergency number 713-274-3400.
Use the Google Idylwood Neighborhood Exchange to inform your neighbors and to report any suspicious activity.
If you’re unsure which agency to contact, 911 will direct you to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
HPD - Online Citizen Alert
Citizens can use this form to request increased patrols around their home or business for a prowler, speeding vehicle, excessive burglaries and thefts, being on vacation, or for reasons causing them concern in the "other" box.
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Constable Crime Report | 9-9-2025 📆 | 🌎 Idylwood
At approximately 7:51 pm, Deputy Acuna and K-9 Beny were dispatched to a suspicious vehicle call at a park near 6799 Sylvan Rd. Upon further investigation, two suspects were found in possession of a powdery white substance identified as cocaine. Suspects were charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance.
Public Safety Is Our #1 Priority!
If You See Something, Say Something, 👀
You Know The Number (Precinct 6): 713-274-3400
| | Let's Talk Sidewalk Chalk | | |
The Chalk House has been installed at the top of the staircase in Spurlock Park, and is designed to store chalk for decorating the staircase mural.
Much thanks to Beth Barrette and Richard Vela for coordinating this project and just in time for the cooler weather. A special thanks to Lindy Lane resident Brody Wright for the assembly of the structure.
| | | | Centennial Committee - Update | | |
The Centennial Cookbook Team is eager to receive your contributions of Idylwood recipes, myths and stories. Watch for submission instruction soon.
To join this or another Centennial Celebration Team, please contact Karen Giesen (kgiesen@sbcglobal.net) or Richard Vela (thevelafella@yahoo.com).
| Pictured l to r: Suzy Harrington, Beth Barrette, Candus Hinderer, Karen Giesen, Amy Lawson. | | |
This is another centennial celebration project to install historic blue tile street markers on the sidewalks in 60 locations throughout the neighborhood. Installation will begin this year at 15 locations, with a goal to complete all corners by 2028.
First wave of installations would include 15 locations set into ADA accessible sidewalk ramps. This is a matching reimbursement grant. ICC must raise and front all of the money towards the project, half of which will then be reimbursed by the City once requirements are met (report filed and expenditures documented).
Funding for the first 15 is complete for this year, but we will be raising additional funds to continue this project going forward. Note: Idylwood celebrated its 90th anniversary by installing historical designation toppers on our street signs.
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What: The Book Cycle
Where: 405 Velasco Street, 77003
When: Every Thursday, 9am-3pm
1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, 9am-5pm
Book Cycle wants to make sure everyone can read for free. The nonprofit's East End shop allows visitors to take home any and as many books, audiobooks, single-issue comics, magazines, sheet music, and vinyl as they want at no cost. They can keep, donate, return, or otherwise do as they wish with the treasures unearthed during a Book Cycle trip.
The regular open hours allow people to drop off donations, peruse the collections, or walk away with any books in which they are interested, all for free. They house a large collection and giant variety of books in an ever-changing stock. They accept books of any age or genre, and have a large collection of children’s and young adult books.
https://thebookcycle.org/
| | Houston Public Works Rain Barrel sale is now open! | Then pick your items up on October 25, 2025, from 9 am to 1 pm at the Houston Permitting Center (1002 Washington Ave 77002). | | Super Neighborhood 64 & 88 | | Did you know they have a monthly newsletter filled with timely updates on neighborhood construction projects and excellent city and state government information impacting Greater Eastwood, Lawndale & Wayside? | | October Neighborhood Events | | |
Historic Eastwood Home Tour
The 27th Annual Eastwood Home Tour is just around the corner—October 18-19! Explore 5 gorgeous homes in one of Houston’s oldest master-planned communities. From historic charm to modern design, this is a must-see event!
Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door.
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2025 KBR Kids Day is a free annual event for the entire community. Thousands of children and their families will gather at The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park to experience a full day of fun with exciting activities for all ages. This year, we will be celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Buffalo Bayou Park!
When: Sunday, October 19 from 11-3pm
Where: 105-B Sabine St, 77007
Hands-on nature activities, face-painting, a Birds of Prey show, a costume parade, dance performances, and much more for the whole family to enjoy.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase on-site.
Halloween costumes are encouraged!
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Join Buffalo Bayou Partnership for the 2nd annual Buffalo Bayou East: A Progress Report to the Community.
When: Tuesday, October 21
6pm Doors open
6:30pm Presentation
Reception and tours to follow
Where: Turkey Bend on Buffalo Bayou
5803 Navigation Blvd.
This free event will focus on advancement of BBP plans along the eastern stretch of Buffalo Bayou and how new parks, trails, pedestrian bridges, affordable housing, and other unique spaces are coming together to strengthen connections between people, neighborhoods, and the bayou. The BBP team will provide design and construction updates on projects and discuss what's ahead for the Greater East End and Fifth Ward communities.
After the presentation, tour the newly-restored Warehouse at Turkey Bend, enjoy music and refreshments, and join in discussion with BBP team members and your neighbors.
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TXRX Yoga
When: October 26 @ 11:00 am
Where: 6501 Navigation Blvd., 77011
TXRX will be working with a community instructor, M’carai Punch, to bring our community a free yoga class this October! It is free to sign up, welcome to all ages, but participants must bring their own mat and/or blocks to participate. Donations are welcome for the instructor.
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- Oct 03: WALK30
- Oct 06: Harvest Moon (Neil Young’s fave)
- Oct 07: National Night Out
- Oct 07: Heavy Trash (may be delayed)
- Oct 08: Draconid Meteor Shower (peak)
- Oct 10: WALK30
- Oct 13: Recycling
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Oct 16: Robin Trower (House of Blues)
- Oct 17: WALK30
- Oct 19: 1st Blockbuster Video opened in Dallas - 1985
- Oct 21: Civic Club Meeting @ 7pm, 6715 Fairfield
- Oct 24: WALK30
- Oct 27: Recycling
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Oct 31: All Hallows’ Eve & WALK30
- Nov 02: Daylight Saving Time ends (fall back)
- Nov 04: Go Vote!
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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.
| | October 2025 Idylwood Pets of the Month | | Pets of the Month Alumni are looking for new Members! | | |
We know there are lots of Idylwood pets still waiting to be honored! And, we want to increase our Club membership! So, Pet Parents, feel free to send in your nomination of your furry, feathery, or scaley companions to be featured in upcoming newsletters! Remember, Pet Love makes you smile and warms the heart! Share the love!!
Send a note with a brief description of your pet(s) to Patricia and she'll get back with you on the details and get you on the waiting list:
phattenbach@gmail.com
Regards,
POM Alumni
| | Narrative by the POM Alumni | | |
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: idylwoodgardenclub@gmail.com
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Friendly Reminder From The Pets
For the health and safety of all neighborhood pets and people,
please scoop our poop- especially along the bayou trails !
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Please watch for email meeting updates from
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Garden Club Meeting Dates and Times
First Saturdays of the Month from 10 am-noon!
(Usual 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; Speakers: Jaime and Joseph - Owners of Bloom Handcrafted Beauty Products (using botanicals)
Dec. 6: Hosts: Patricia Hattenbach and Jim McCallum - 1404 N MacGregor Way; Holiday Pot Luck Brunch and Fun Gift Exchange ($15 max)!
Jan. 10: Host: Nicole Wood - 1725 Idylwood; Speaker: TBD
Feb. 7: Hosts: Irma Nino and Carmen Martinez - 6625 Meadowlawn;
Speaker:TBD
March 7: Fieldtrip: Edith L Moore Bird Sanctuary - 440 Wilchester Blvd 77079;
Members will carpool leaving at 9:50 am
April 11: Host: Suzy Harrington - 6609 Lindy Lane; Speaker: TBD
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 !!
Neighbors, inspect your trees! It's hurricane season!
Think: Safety for all !
Be on the safe side and carefully inspect your trees. Past years of drought, floods, the derecho, and hurricanes have taken a toll on our beloved Idylwood canopy of green. Many trees are dead or dying and in various stages of decay which leads to falling limbs or the entire tree. Removing trees is costly, but less than a major house repair or injury to a person. Try to get 2-3 bids to find a qualified team. It is a big chore but one that will help keep our neighbors safe and the neighborhood beautiful!
_________________
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Houston Botanic Gardens
Intro to Orchid Growing
Beginners' Guide to Beautiful Blooms
Oct. 4, 2025 10:00 am - 11:30 am
First Sunday Dog Days
Furry Friends Welcome
Oct. 5, 2025 9:00 am
Monarchs and Marigolds
In Partnership with MECA
Oct. 12, 2025 9:00 am
Fungi Fest
All About Mushrooms
Oct. 18, 2025 10:00 am
Gardening For Resilience
Meet the Author
Oct. 25, 2025 2:00 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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Remember: COH Tree Trash Gets Turned Into Mulch
When Picked Up on The First Tuesdays of Odd # Months
Keep in mind that trimmings from trees, shrubs and bushes can be placed on your curb for the city's Tree Trash pick-up on the first Tuesday of odd months.
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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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Yard of the Month
October 2025
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Neighbors!
It's your turn to have an eye for beauty in Idylwood!
As you walk, ride, or drive about in Idylwood, you may have noticed a home that has some interesting and admirable landscaping - from the most minimal of plantings to the most lush. It could even be your own home!! Feel free to nominate that resident's or your home for a future YOM. Just send an email to Patricia about your nomination and she will get back to you with more details.
Enjoy the natural beauty in Idylwood!
phattenbach@gmail.com
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Buchanan's Native Plants
(click the link above for access to their website)
October 2025
Planting Guide
- Plant trees, shrubs, rose bushes and perennials. Planting now will ensure better survival next spring/summer and earlier growth and blooms.
- Plant fall and winter color – pansies, dianthus, snapdragons, alyssum, ornamental kale and cabbage, dusty miller, etc. Plant in beds you cleaned out (from #1), or in pots on deck or porch.
- Plant fall veggies and herbs – Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts , lettuce, cabbage, peas, dill, cilantro, parsley, Swiss chard, mustard greens, etc.
- Plant bulbs by the holidays. Between Halloween and Thanksgiving: Crocus, anemones, freesia, ranunculus, alliums, lycoris, etc. Plant paperwhites in pots by November 11th (Armistice Day) for blooming in time for Christmas. Refrigerate tulips until New Year’s Day, then plant every two weeks through Valentine’s Day for longer bloom time.
Lawn
Replace dead grass with St. Augustine sod. Weeds will sprout in dead patches if you don’t. New sod will be well-established by spring. Winterize the lawn that you still have left. An organic, slow release fertilizer is just what the grass needs to get ready for cold weather.
Birds
Be sure to have nectar feeders or nectar plants for migrating hummingbirds and butterflies.
Mulch & Compost
Mulch, mulch, mulch — the mulch you applied last spring is long gone! Protect roots and maintain moisture while keeping weeds to a minimum with a 3-inch layer of the mulch of your choice — pine straw, bark mulch, compost, leaves.
Compost
Add to your pile or create one. Clean out all the dead stuff from your garden and flower beds. Leaves are already falling — add them, too.
Garden Planning
Move and divide perennials and roses while they are dormant or growing slowly. They will be ready to burst into bloom in spring.
Plant wildflower seeds through November – bluebonnets, paintbrush, larkspur, etc. Also plant sweet pea seeds in November for better results in spring.
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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 2024-2025
PRESIDENT: Diane Schenke (Fairfield)
VICE PRESIDENT: Keith McCarthy (Merry)
TREASURER: Nicole Wood (Idylwood)
SECRETARY: Danika Murphy (Rockbridge)
Directors: Class A (two-year terms ending in December 2025):
Patricia Hattenbach (N. MacGregor); Tim Johnson (Wildwood); Monique Studak (Sylvan); Blake Mudd (Meadowlawn); Richard Vela (Lindy)
Directors: Class B (two-year terms ending in December 2026):
Beth Barrette (Meadowlawn); Amy Dinn (Sylvan); Suzy Harrington (Lindy);
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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