Houston Architecture Info Forum

Should I Sell My Spring Area Rental Or Continue To Lease It Out?

Sat, 26 Jul 2008 13:47:48 -0400

I have a 2-1-1 in Cypress Trails of Timberlane in Spring, TX. I've had the best tenants for the last five years. They are moving on next month and I'm presented with an opportunity to sell or lease again. I'd like input from the HAIF community.

The property will bring 250-300 a month positive cash flow; however, I have over 20K equity I'd like to use to reduce debt and buy a new AC system for my current residence.

I'm not sure, in this market, whether I should hold on to it for awhile longer and delay current needs or sell and be a bit more comfortable.

I look forward to your responses.

For Sale ~ Very original Glenbrook ranch

Sat, 26 Jul 2008 10:37:31 -0400

This one is in good shape, but doesn't suffer from bad remuddle jobs. Good street, nice big lot. Hardwoods under carpet, (I am still pressing the seller the pull the carpets out) Priced at $176,000.

I will get better pics soon.
8135 Glencrest

Most expensive cities in America

Sat, 26 Jul 2008 09:33:33 -0400

http://realestate.yahoo.com/promo/americas...WV4cHNlbnNpdmU-

1. New York
2. L.A.
3. Miami
4. Honolulu
5. San Francisco
6. Chicago
7. White Plains, N.Y.
8. Houston
9. Boston
10. Washington D.C.

wallpaper repair

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 23:50:39 -0400

I have wallpaper in my my foyer and along the stairs leading to the second floor. There is a small tear in the wallpaper and I was hoping someone could recommend a contractor who can repair a tear in the paper. The tear is about the size of a dime so it is a terribly small job but I see this "blemish" every day and I can no longer ignore it. Thanks.

Need help w/ format of replies

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:38:30 -0400

Hello all - I've been coming here to HAIF for several years and love this site. For the last few weeks, everytime I check the boards I can only see the first post normally and then the rest are listed below in a drop down menu where I have to click each individual post to read it. I hope that makes sense. I want to be able to see all replies one after the other without clicking each one. I looked in MY CONTROLS but can't figure it out. If you know what I'm talking about and can help, please tell me what to do to fix it. Thanks in advance!

Why Isn't Phil Gramm & his Slimy Wife in Prison?

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:49:29 -0400

It's amazing to me how the powerful escape prosecution, even when their hands are firmly in the cookie jar.

1993: As chairwoman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Wendy Gramm(Phil's wife), pushed through a key regulatory exemption just as she was about to leave office. Five weeks later, she joined Enron's board of directors, where she served on the board's audit committee and had access to key financial information about the company.

2000: After having to wait several years to become chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, Phil Gramm sponsored the 'Commodity Futures Modernization Act'. Through coordinated trickery in reintroducing the bill with a different number, Gramm was able to pass the legislation without a full debate because of his position as chairman. This bill not only set up Enron to pull their scams, but it is responsible for most of the banking & oil speculation craziness we have seen - due to the removal of government safeguards and partitions. Warren Buffet called this bill 'Financial Weapons of Mass Destruction'.

2001: Now with their energy activities shielded, Wendy is able to create false electricity shortages in California for Enron. Enron was able to bilk customers out of an estimated 40 billion dollars.

January 2002: UBS Warburg agrees to buy the energy trading unit of bankrupt Enron. UBS is the parent company - UBS stands for Union Bank of Switzerland(Switzerlands largest bank).

October 2002: Phil Gramm becomes the vice chairman of UBS. Isn't this an interesting relationship between Phil/Wendy & UBS/Enron???
UBS proceeded to lose 70% of it's value in recent years under Gramm. How do you lose billions and billions if you are a financial whiz?
Those secret Swiss bank accounts just might come in handy, hmmm?

July 17, 2008: Senator Carl Levine states that UBS has an estimated 19,000 so-called 'undeclared accounts' with United States citizens (estimated 18 billion in assets) that have been kept secret from the IRS. You don't suspect that Phil and Wendy Gramm are two of the 19,000, do you?
Later that day, UBS announces that they will no longer provide offshore banking or securities to U.S. residents.

To think that Phil Gramm was/is going to be Treasury Secretary under McCain. Unbelievable.

Remember the good old days....when we had public hangings?

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Freeport Police arrest

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:38:27 -0400

Cop got licked...literally. In the I cannot beleive-it-unless-I-saw-it-file, it goes.

KHOU.com staff report

FREEPORT, Texas -- A Freeport police officer took a licking this week -- literally.

BRAZORIA COUNTY SHERIFF

Ryan Halverson

A suspect was charged with felony assault of a public servant after allegedly licking Sgt. Jay Newton on the face early Wednesday.

Freeport's police chief said say Ryan Halverson, 18, was picked up for public intoxication after he was spotted beating on car windows and breaking beer bottles outside a gas station on Brazosport Boulevard.

Sgt. Newton was searching Halverson at the jail when the suspect allegedly became beligerent and refused to cooperate.

That's when Halverson leaned over and licked the officer's face, according to Freeport Police Chief Jeff Pynes.

"We encourage people not to lick our police officers," Pynes told The Facts newspaper in Brazoria County. "We want you to like them, not lick them."

Pynes said they are taking the incident seriously because "you never know what people are carrying in their saliva."

Halverson is being held in the Brazoria County Detention Center on a $10,000 bond.

Councilman Rodriquez HPD at shooting scene

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:21:15 -0400

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5906695.html

Houston City Councilman James Rodriguez really didn't expect much action during his ride-along with Houston police officers Thursday afternoon.

"It was raining really hard and I remember thinking 'We're not going to see much,'" said Rodriguez, who represents District I.

He just wanted to evaluate some complaints of neighborhood nuisances graffiti, prostitution and gang activity.

Less than 20 minutes after getting into a southeast patrol car, however, the pair was called to a shooting scene.

********************************************************************
I don't always see eye to eye with my council person, but I think it's very cool that he is out there on ride-alongs.

July 27 Mod of the Month- 3 Mods Open 2-4 PM

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:44:10 -0400

Houston Mod is pleased to announce three interesting Mid-Century Modern houses looking for new owners will be available to tour this Sunday. These are all located within the 77025 zip code area of southwest Houston. Houston Mod membership information and publications will be available.

Date: Sunday, July 27, 2008
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM

1. 3506 Glen Arbor- Emerald Forest

HAR Link

Custom built Mid Century Modern located in exclusive inner loop location offers an unobstructed view of Braes Bayou Park. This one owner intact house has been maintained with integrity of floor plan, finishes, and style. Floor to ceiling windows in den, formal living room, and formal dining room overlook beautifully landscaped backyard. Slate tile floors and custom walnut paneling in the foyer, formal living room, formal dining room, and den. Two sided stone fireplace. Modernized kitchen with granite counters, walnut cabinets, glass panel pantry doors, and Chambers gas oven/range.

Architect Joseph Krakower designed this house about 1954.

2. 3747 Gramercy - Braes Heights

HAR Link

Reduced and Priced to Sell! Beautifully updated modern home in Braeswood. Great price for a 4 bedroom home with 3 of the bedrooms on the first level. Plenty of yard space with an abundance of storage in the shed in lieu of a garage. Newly remodeled kitchen and master bath with granite countertops, Kenmore appliances and a walk in laundry room. Fresh paint throughout with custom colors. Also offers another bath opportunity in one of the extra closets. Approximately 2600 sqft total per seller.

A 1948 modern house that is of unusual design for Houston. This house was a neighbor of the recently demolished modern landmark Houck House of 1947.

3. 4007 Mischire- Woodshire

HAR Link

Large 4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom home in the close-in Woodshire subdivision. This home is minutes from the Medical Center and has a great floor plan. This clean, well-maintained home also has many amenities including formal living and dining areas, in-house utility room, built-in bookcases, extra closet space, and beautiful hardwood floors. This home is move-in ready! Zoned to Bellaire High.

This is an intact MCM house that has not suffered inappropriate updates.

Help with Verizon Wireless?

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 01:36:54 -0400

....Attending a concert in late August, and honestly, I'm terrified.

Only because of parking.....any tips?

north pasadena revitalization

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:49:57 -0400

slideshow of construction:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/14431354@N04/...795714721/show/

library link:
http://www.ci.pasadena.tx.us/library/index.html

9,300 sq ft addition

Ronovation Details

Central Library Closed For Renovation While the Central Library is undergoing construction, the Fairmont Branch will offer extended hours. As of April 1st, the branch is open:

Mon, Thur, Fri, Sat 10-6 Tue and Wed 10-8:30 Sun 1-5

Also the central librarys computer lab will be moving to Fairmonts auditorium and will open in late April. All current services: faxing, scanning, printing, computer classes, etc will be available during regular business hours, seven days a week.

We provide library services from two locations in the Pasadena Town Square Mall. Children and Teens will have their own library across from Morrows Nuthouse (location 127). Two doors down from Morrows Nuthouse (location 124) the library will provide reference services as well as access to best sellers and current magazines.

Both locations are open:

Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 10-6 Thur 10-8:30

For details check this web site or call Fairmont Branch Library at (281) 998-1095.

The renovation of the Central Library will not affect services and programming at the Fairmont Branch Library. Childrens story times and special programs will continue as usual for young visitors, and the Branchs two book clubs will meet at their regularly scheduled times. The Summer Reading Program begins in June.

Sony Vaio PCV-RS312V Desktop

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 21:20:05 -0400

http://houston.craigslist.org/sys/768781188.html

$295 OBO.

Houston Zoo free admission for those with lone star card

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:28:09 -0400

Despite record crowds, officials with the Houston Zoo are looking for ways to attract more low-income families.

Starting Aug. 1, families that use the Lone Star card to receive food stamps and other benefits will have unlimited free admission for themselves and up to eight others.

"We're always trying to expand access," said Deborah Cannon, president and CEO of the Houston Zoo, which set an attendance record with 1.6 million visitors in 2007.

On July 1, ticket prices increased by 25 cents for senior citizens and by $1 for children over 2. Adult admission remains at $10.

full article

HAIF:mag

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 18:39:06 -0400

This was originally a question I posed to the moderators, but I'm opening it up to hear what everyone thinks.

QUOTE

HAIF has been invited to test out a new magazine printing service. The idea of creating HAIF:mag intrigues me. A lot.

But I worry about content. Sure, we could get lots of pretty pictures to put in there from Jax and Boris and others. But what other content might go into HAIF:mag?

The only things I can come up with are the results of HAIFer polls.

Does anyone else have any bright ideas?

Bathroom Remodel - Need Opinions

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 16:33:42 -0400

Hi - I am currently redoing the master bath in my house and considering two different options, I'd like some opinions on which option would be more desirable when we sell the house. I'm a young first time home owner so I'd like some opinions to get a plan in place before I really get going on this project.

For reference the house is ~1800sq ft with 4 bedrooms & 2 baths, located just west of the Heights. The master bath I am working on is a very small bathroom (7.5 ft x 6.5 ft.) with single vanity, corner shower stall, and toilet. Option #1 consists of keeping the existing floorplan and doing a complete renovation to the bathroom. Option #2 would be to enlarge the master bath , however, this would require combining two of the bedrooms, essentially creating a master suite and thus reducing the number of bedrooms in the house to a total of 3.

Which option do you think is the way to go here and what effect would small bath/large bath vs 4/3 bedrooms have on resale of the house?

Mobile Phone Health Risks

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 14:38:20 -0400

Probably topic has been discussed before, but interesting to see an expert on Cancer research do something like this.....

From BBC News:

US cancer boss in mobiles warning

The director of a leading US cancer research institute has sent a memo to thousands of staff warning of possible higher risks from mobile phone use.

Ronald Herberman, of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, said users should not wait for definitive studies on the risk and should take action now.

He said children should use mobiles in emergencies only and adults should try to keep the phone away from the head.

.....

Link

New cooktop, vent question

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 14:20:43 -0400

I am redoing my counters with granite and figured this was a good time to also replace our poorly functioning coil cooktop.

QUESTION...is it necessary, to be in code or whatever, to have some sort of venting on an electric cooktop in Texas? This is going on an island and there is no hood above it. Most of the cooktops I see at Sears/HD/Lowe's, and all the cheaper ones, don't seem to have downflow venting. Our current cooktop has a downflow vent, but it's never worked since we've owned the house and we haven't seen the need for it. Are we going to have a problem with getting it installed or selling our house someday if we just buy a normal cooktop with no downflow vent?

Also, any thoughts on the induction style cooktops? They worth the extra money over standard radiant electric?

Thanks

Kirby Drive

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:54:11 -0400

Posted on neohouston: http://neohouston.wordpress.com

This is my alternative idea for the Kirby widening. It's probably too late to save the trees, but perhaps could still be implemented someday to help reduce the traffic.

http://neohouston.wordpress.com/2008/07/22...y-can-be-saved/

Please leave comments on the blog. The blog itself is new, you all find it an enjoyable read!

Steel bed for sale

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 12:10:02 -0400

I have a two year old queen size steel bed for sale for $250.00. I'm centrally located in midtown.

http://www.houstonarchitecture.info/haif/index.php?act=attach&type=post&id=881

"Rock Star" Preachers and Pastors

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 09:18:25 -0400

What do y'all make of Chron.com's lead story today on "Rock Star" preachers and pastors?

http://blogs.chron.com/spiritedchat/2008/0...1.html#comments

http://www.chron.com/channel/houstonbelief...Preachers_.html (slideshow)

This is just part of the reason that -- while Christian -- I don't attend church any more.

Black in America

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:17:19 -0400

I cant sleep so I thought I post this topic. Did anybody watch the documentary on Black in America by CNN? If you did what did you think or what do you think about the subject in general?

A side note: Very good portion of the story was done in Houston.

Graves Under Pavement of Methodist Church?

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:32:44 -0400

I had gotten a email about the Reid Memorial United Methodist Church located at 5203 Fulton, Houston,Texas. It had at one time a cemetery next to it called BROOKS CEMETERY. The church decided to expand around the 1940's so family of the deceased were asked to move their loved ones. Most were moved, some were not. Mary E. Peterson said her Grandfather William Henry Shackelford born 1883 ARK died in Houston 1913 is buried there. The problem is the church has no records. Where her grandfather is buried is covered over with a building and a paved driveway.
1. Would any one know how old the church building is?
2. Would any one know of or has heard of the Brooks Cemetery.
3. How could I find out what was located at this location back before 1940?
Thanks for any help.

Cy-Fair Vol Fire Dept Station 12 Open House

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 18:16:21 -0400

Cy-Fair VFD's newest Station, Station 12, went in service recently. They are having an open house this Saturday, July 26th, from 10-4. The station is on Keith Harrow between Fry Rd and Greenhouse. The public is invited to come tour the station and see several different types of fire trucks (engine, ladder, tanker, rescue, ambulance). It's a good chance to check out the inside of a fire station.

Ballroom Dancing

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:02:02 -0400

Just wanted to let everyone know that I think I have found a hidden jewel for us ballroom dancers. Every Friday night out at Cleopatra's Palace (FM 1960 West & TC Jester), they offer ballroom dancing from 7 pm till 11 pm and it is only $19.99 pp. With that, you get, a lovely menu to choose from and an awesome bar (which bar tickets can be purchased at the register).

They normally offer free dance lessons from 6 pm till 7 pm. Last week they had professional dance instructor Teresa from Dance Arts Studio and she was really good.

The live band is awesome! They have Jerry & Merry Burgess perform and they are good. They always have the dance floor full of people dancing.

I would really hate to see this thing not work out for them. From talking to the owner's, Cleopatra's Palace is a full service banquet facility but the husband had a dream of opening a restaurant and this is their first try at it. I think that we should all go out and support them and also dance the night away.

Just in case anyone would like to give them a call, their phone number is 281-537-1966 and their website is www.cleopatrabanquethouston.com .

Kyu Sung Woo

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:18:30 -0400

ARCHITECT KYU SUNG WOO NAMED 2008 HO-AM LAUREATE IN THE ARTS

SEOUL, KOREA — Architect Kyu Sung Woo has been named the winner of the 2008 Ho-Am Prize in the Arts. The Ho-Am Prize in the Arts recognizes Koreans who have made outstanding contributions to the promotion of culture and the arts through their creative efforts and accomplishments. He is the first architect to receive this prestigious award, which is often considered to be the Korean equivalent to the Nobel Prize.

Kyu Sung Woo is the most prominent Korean American architect practicing in both Korea and the United States. His architecture and urban design work represent a style informed by nature. By resisting ornamentation and exaggeration, Woo combines the minimalist ideals of the West with the quiet spaces of the East. His utilization of light, space, and movement combine to create a unique and meditative experience.

Kyu Sung Woo Architects, based in Cambridge, MA, boasts a wide range of completed projects in the United States including the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art (Overland Park, KS 2007), the Graduate Student Housing at 10 Akron Street at Harvard University (Cambridge, MA 2008) the Heller School at Brandeis University (Waltham, MA 2005) and the Arts of Korea Gallery at the New York Metropolitan Museum (New York, NY 1997.) Representative works in Korea include the new 1.4 million square foot Asian Culture Complex (Gwangju, Under Construction), Stone Cloud (Seoul, 1997), and the Whanki Museum (Seoul,1993). Kyu Sung has also participated in a number of exhibitions including the 8th International Architecture Exhibition of the Venice Biennale.

The Ho-Am Prize is an annual award bestowed upon five ethnic Koreans living at home or abroad in the categories of science, engineering, medicine, the arts and community service. The award was first established in 1990, in honor of Byung-Chul Lee, founder of Samsung Corporation, and his lifelong commitment to the promotion of public benefit programs. Past winners of the Ho-Am Prize in the Arts include educational pioneer Won-Yong Kim, video artist Nam-June Paik, painter Lee Ulfan, dancer Sue Jin Kang, the Bucheon Philharmonic, playwright Oh Tae-Sok and most recently in 2007, novelist Yi Chong-jun. Ho-Am Prize winners receive a gold medal, a laureate diploma, and 200 million Korean won (about $200,000 US Dollars).

About Kyu Sung Woo Architects

Kyu Sung Woo Architects creates memorable spaces reflecting the emotional and functional needs of the people who use them. From university housing to urban complexes, the firm designs buildings and environments that restore the meaning architecture brings to the individual’s daily life. Current work includes the Asian Cultural Complex, a 1.4 million square feet urban scale project in Gwangju, Korea.

For more information, please visit:

http://www.kswa.com

Nerman Museum Of Contemporary Art

Photo Credit: Copyright Timothy Hursley - The Arkansas Office

The Heller School at Brandeis University (Waltham, MA)

Photo Credit: Anton Grassl/Copyright Esto

Puzzle Loft (New York)

Photo Credit: Copyright Paul Warchol

Pelican Island Container Terminal

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:01:09 -0400

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/5902415.html

Barbour's Cut and Bayport have each spurred many millions of square feet of new off-site distribution warehouses in the La Porte, Baytown, and Deer Park areas. Where will these go to efficiently serve a container terminal on Pelican Island?

Moreover, it is curious that the City of Galveston would be so willing to allow an increase in truck traffic along Harborside Dr. The worst road in the whole of the Houston area serves Barbour's Cut, and they're having to rebuild it with much thicker concrete.

EDIT: Also, does anybody know much about the status of the Shoal Point Container Terminal that was being planned for Texas City?

Remembering Hurricane Carla

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:54:56 -0400

Is anyone old enough to remember Hurricane Carla (1961)? We lived in Houston and we went to Galveston to watch the storm come in. I was so fascinated by the big black wall that kept getting closer, that I neglected to realize that the water was coming up and over the sea wall. My feet were under about 6in of water. The drive back to Houston was bumper to bumper traffic, dark as night. Scary and fascinating at the same time.

Does Houston have indoor skydiving?

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:50:07 -0400

Does Houston have indoor skydiving?
If not, it would be a good isea to open one. I think it would make a lot of money.

http://www.iflyhollywood.com/

Gray and Taft

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:25:38 -0400

Drove by this long-vacant lot the other day, and I noticed that there was construction on the northeast corner of Taft and West Grey. There must be a topic for this lot, but I couldn't find it.

I hope they dont tear down the art deco shops on the corner. I'm still waiting for someone to deck it out in retro neon lights and turn it into a restaurant.

New multi-family/hotel on West Road @ Queenston

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 10:16:45 -0400

Does anyone know what this is? It's directly across from Aragon middle school, and looks to be a higher end extended stay suite of some sort. I just thought that was an odd place to build something like that.

Contract Deputy Program has been suspended for New Enrollees

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 08:38:09 -0400

I know Shady Acres and the Houston Heights have been pursuing this avenue to stem the crime. I guess we have to find another avenue. I know Shady Acres is seeking candidates for our Citizens on Patrol (COP) Program

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Homeowners in Harris County are no longer allowed to hire extra deputies to patrol their neighborhoods.

County commissioners voted yesterday to no longer honor deputy contracts, at least until they completely review the program. Email obtained by 13 Undercover revealed the sheriff's office was cutting into taxpayer patrols, so it could sign new contracts. That essentially benefited only neighborhoods who could afford the service.

Commissioner Sylvia Garcia says deputies should instead provide quality service to the entire county.

"Because what you do then is create the have and the have nots. People who have money can pay for contract deputy service. People who can't afford it don't get the deputies," she said. "It's absolutely, patently unfair."

Nassau Bay Town Square

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 22:52:33 -0400

Forgive me if this is a dupe...

http://nassaubaytownsquare.com/
http://www.page-partners.com/flyers/nassau...8.emailable.pdf

Destined to be the focal point of activity in Nassau Bay, Texas, Nassau Bay Town Square will combine office, retail, and multi-family residential uses with a 200 room hotel, conference center, and restaurants.Located at the intersection of NASA Parkway and Upper Bay Road, directly across the main gates of Johnson Space Center, Nassau Bay Town Square enjoys direct access from I-45 via the NASA
Parkway connectors.

Katy Main Street: Mixed-Use Development

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 22:45:51 -0400

WoodCreek Development recently purchased 86 acres at the southwest corner of I-10 and Pin Oak Road for a retail and office development. The project will be called Katy Main Street. Plans are to have over 450,000 square feet of retail, restaurants, and banks, a full service hotel and 510,000 square feet of Class A office space. This property will be completed through a joint venture partnership with BPI Realty Services.

BPI is a full-service commercial real estate firm specializing in shopping centers, developing and managing in excess of 3,000,000 square feet of retail centers.

www.bpirealty.com

Unlike WoodCreek Commons, WoodCreek Development will stay involved in this retail development after completion rather than selling the asset.

Link: http://www.woodcreekdevelopment.com/retail-developments.html

Lakes at Crosspoint - 2920 & 2978

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 22:02:44 -0400

http://www.gadfy.com/projectdetails.asp?id=5

Apparently it's already under construction and 60% leased.

more pictures at the link

New homeless facility near Eastwood?

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 20:03:16 -0400

Homeless facility threatened despite powerful support
Some Eastwood residents oppose plans for project to house 220
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headli...ro/5900326.html

Pressed Wood Sheathing?

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:02:07 -0400

Hi all,

I have been reading this site for several months and have come across alot of good information, but now I have a specific question. I am currently in the process of getting an offer accepted from a townhouse in Rice Military. I came across some pictures of this townhouse during its construction phase and was wondering if this was pressed wood sheathing in the pictures?

http://www.har.com/HomeValue/dispSoldDetai...p;MLNUM=6522948#

I've read from this site you should stay away from any house with pressed wood, but I can't tell if this is pressed wood as this is my first home buying experience. It doesn't seem like the builder would skimp on materials because they use steel framing and I previewed the house, and it appears to be built very well. I've looked at many other houses, and this one seemed to be one of the best built. Everything just seemed structurally sound and sturdy. However, I'm not sure if I'm maybe influenced by the high end finishes.

And if this is pressed wood, is this a warning flag for possible other areas the builder skimped on? How bad exactly is pressed wood? I don't want to make a very costly mistake as I am putting my life savings into this home.

Thanks in advance!

Timbergrove Church on W 17 between Durham and Beall

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:30:45 -0400

There is a church on W 17 between Durham and Beall. I don't ever see any parishoners on Sunday or any day at this church. The name is Timbergrove Baptist. The pastor last name is Fake. Is this a real church? I know it isn't abandonned but I would like to see this large property redeveloped into something else.

Old Parade of Homes Mod

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:15:44 -0400

The train wreck is in the station. This one is very original, but in need of a FULL restoration. Following an estate sale there is junk left everywhere and it needs a good cleaning for starters.

Despite all that, there is a very interesting small mod that could be a real gem if someone restored it. At only $65,000 the price is right. It was a 1956 Parade of Homes house designed by a senior Architecture student at Rice University. The design was used for the parade after winning a competition at the University.

The Architect, Mel O'Brien, went on to get his Masters from Princeton and was awarded the William Ward Watkin traveling fellowship from Rice University in 1960. He opened his own firm in Memphis in 1963. His principle works there include Christian Brothers High School and Cypress Jr. High, among other things. He was also part of a league of Architects involved in some of Memphis' civic planning projects. (Spaceage found that info for me, the rest came from Stephen Fox). He was also President of the Memphis AIA Chapter in 1969.

Restored this could be a really great little mod house. I will reserve comments as to what I think of the pictures currently on HAR, so suffice to say I took a couple of my own. It definitely needs a lot of work, but for $65,000, what do you want?

The original design apparently called for the carport to be side loading, which it isn't, and it suffers from a poorly executed garage conversion of the carport, although that could be fixed.

The entire main living area has vaulted beamed ceilings. In front is a main living/dining area with an exposed brick wall and a row of clerestory windows.

A wood stained valance at the opposite end.

There are original aqua accordion doors dividing off the den area, where the vaulted ceilings continue and a wall of glass overlooks a back patio space. The den has stained paneling.

there is an hanging light fixture thing above the sink in the kitchen.

I don't think the kitchen has been painted since 1956 and still sports the old yellow patterned formica and yellow appliances with aqua cabinetry. Sorry if this is sideways, I have rotated it on my saved pictures and on Photobucket, and I just can't get it to do right.

2005 Honda Accord EX Sedan

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:12:19 -0400

This is a 2005 Honda Accord EX Sedan with a 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission. It has approximately 78,000 miles. It is a one-owner vehicle and has had oil changes every 5k miles and recommended maintenance every 10k miles. All work was done at John Eagle Honda in Houston and documentation is available.

The car has never had any mechanical problems or required any bodywork. The exterior does have several scratches and dents in various places, but no major damage. The interior is in good condition.

The price is firm. Additional photos are also available.

The car's features include:
Power Moonroof
16-inch Alloy Wheels
In-dash 6 CD Changer
Audio Steering Wheel Controls
Power Windows
Power Door Locks
Keyless Entry
Tinted Windows
Tires have 20k miles on them and include warranty from Discount Tire

Call 713-875-8719.

Best Views In Houston

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 14:59:38 -0400

The pictures that Bengiann posted (especially of Chase Tower) got me thinking...what is your favorite view of the city? Specifically from up high, where you can see for miles, but any old favorite view will do.

My first favorite view is from the observation deck on the 60th floor of Chase (aka Texas Commerce) Tower. It's only open Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm, but it's free and it offers amazing views of the city.

My second favorite view is on the other end of downtown, from the balcony of The 43nd, a restaurant on the 43nd floor of the Wedge Tower. The restaurant itself is decidedly meh, but the view is totally worth the trip (just get a drink or two from the bar; forget about getting food there). Best part? It's a totally open-air balcony, so you can step outside and let the winds rip through your hair as you check out the city below. It's awesome.

How 'bout y'all?

Med Center Pano

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:25:45 -0400

Here's a Med Center Pano i did by hand. I know it's not great, but it get's the idea across.

Just some great old Nostalgia!

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:21:03 -0400

I just couldn't resist. Here are two awesome looks at the past of one of our largest cities. The first one captures the street cars of the 1950's in LA. (Be sure to check out the background buildings, cars, people). Then a 1937 new line inaguaration by Ms S Temple.

The 3rd is of one of the most famous hotels and night clubs ever known in old Hollywood. The Ambassador and the Coconut Grove Night Club.

All now just memories and recreated in recent films. Just can't get enough!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAPMvhD62kA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2cwcnTyR2E

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOHF5fAUkN4

Border Growth

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:18:39 -0400

First read this in the El Paso Times yesterday.

http://www.lcsun-news.com/news/ci_9954167

Flavor Tripping at La Strada

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:01:36 -0400

Attention all foodies (or people who want to experience a trip of the legal sort):

Flavor Tripping Party
Friday, July 25th, 6pm
La Strada

The Houston Chowhounds will be hosting a Flavor Tripping Party this Friday evening for anyone who's interested in trying Miracle Berries for themselves. A little background: Miracle Berries are a native African fruit that chemically alter your tastebuds for up to an hour. The result is that sour and bitter foods taste sweet. Lemons taste like lemonade, rhubarb tastes like candy, bologna sandwiches taste like cake, Guinness tastes like a chocolate milkshake, etc. It's a trip for your tongue.

We've reserved the entire second floor of La Strada for the party, which will include a cash bar with happy hour prices, special cocktails concocted by La Strada to pair with the berries, and a huge spread of food -- again, all specially chosen to go with the berries. The price? A mere $15 for the berries and the food.

For more information or to reserve a spot, visit I'm Never Full.

And for more background on the berries themselves, check this out.

Hope to see some HAIFers there!

Flamin' hot chili thread

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:54:13 -0400

QUOTE (musicman @ Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008 @ 10:13am) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>

My Crockpot Chili

2 (16 oz.) red kidney beans, drained and washed

Stop right there. It ain't chili if it has beans in it. It's some kind of stew.

NorthWest Corner of I-10 and Westgreen

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:41:07 -0400

So the SW corner is a CVS. The SE corner is empty. The NE Corner is Westgreen Gardens. Dirt is being moved on the NW corner now. Any idea what is going in there? I would guess a gas station (I haven't driven by in a while...maybe it is clearly not a gas station based on where they are with the construction now...). Anybody know??

What the deal with doors?

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 01:19:00 -0400

My fiancee is moving in this weekend. She's semi-feral and I don't want her to wander off trying to find her way back to her old neighborhood, so I was planning on putting her in a cool, small, dark room for the first few weeks. To accomplish that, I need to add a door to an existing door frame.

I assumed that all doors had standard sizes, and further assumed I could go to Home Depot or Lowes and have one installed. Not so. My door hole is 29" wide, about an inch too small for the closest size I can find. What's up with that? Do I have to hire a door maker? Sand an inch off a 30" door? Or do I have to rip the wall out and put in a bigger frame?

Downtown Photos

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:46:39 -0400

Today was an incredibly beautiful day (although quite hot), and I got some fun, sort of cartoonish shots I thought I'd share with zeh forum. I have more to come, but this is all I had time to edit today. If you likey, please feel free to visit my flickr page.

Discovery Green Photos

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 20:04:15 -0400

For me, it's all about the pond. It makes everything downtown seem cooler and more relaxing. I took these last month. I really love the place.

Multi-Story Metal Structure

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:21:47 -0400

Gang, my employer has a multi story metal building which contains their polyethylene blending / extruding systems which they want to modify in an effort to cool the building. There are currently several louvers and fans on each floor of the structure which do very little to cool the building in the summer months. Do any of you HAIF'rs know of a firm which could evaluate, bid, and submit an engineering package? Post up or drop me a PM.

Thanks in advance,

Dub