Speaking of the alley situation, and of volunteers, we're pleased
to report that Lee Walker of 4206 Ave. G -- who, along with his
wife Jennifer Vickers, played such a key role in an eminently
successful Alley Cats cleanup campaign several years ago -- has kindly
volunteered to serve as captain for alley cleanup services on the alley
between Ave. G and Ave. F, between 38th and 45th. Now, last time we
looked there were seven alleys in the neighborhood; so if six other
volunteers who currently enjoy pickup services on their alley will step
up and follow our friend Mr. Walker's exemplary lead, the "pathetic"
charge can be retracted, and the charge on addressing
our problems in the alleys can be resumed.
We are saddened to report the recent passing of Eric
Bodenschatz, who died on August 16 after a long battle with cancer.
Eric lived for many years at 4109 Ave. F with his former wife
Debra Prokop -- who, neighbors may recall, was killed in a bicycle
accident several years ago at 44 th and Ave. G -- along with their
young daughters Erica and Evelyn. Like Debra, Eric was very active
in neighborhood affairs, and his loss is sorely felt by many
friends and neighbors. Contributions to the children's college fund
can be sent to Eric's wife Amy Evers Bodenschatz, c/o Bank of
America, 501 Congress Ave., Austin 78701. On behalf of a neighborhood
that we hope holds many happy memories for the family,
we send condolences to Amy and the children.
Trees, Please! Dept.: We just finished leafing through the Annual
Report of TreeFolks, the local nonprofit that is an
enthusiastic and recognized leader in matters arboreal, and the
good news is that over the past year they planted and distributed
nearly 8000 trees, in projects that took place all over town. The
bad news is that none of those projects happened in Hyde Park.
Yet more good news, however, is that there appear to be a couple
of openings in terms of tree-planting projects for the upcoming
year, so it's not too late to encourage the TreeFolks folks to bring
their good works, and some of their trees, to our part of town.
When and if they do, there are a number of areas -- the 4200 Block
of Ave. H comes to mind, as does Shipe Park -- that have lost some
major trees recently, and might welcome and support some new
plantings. So, neighbors interested in getting involved with this issue
(for precedents, see editorial above) are encouraged to contact
TreeFolks at P.O.B. 704, Austin 78767; 443-5323 (LEAF);
www.treefolks.org, and/or email
admin@treefolks.org.
#9 is Number One! Dept.: Just as we were going to press, we
heard the welcome news reporting that full services at Fire Station
#9 will apparently be sustained. Details sure to follow in next
month's issue.
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