Scenic Houston Annual Gala Dinner
2008 Event and Honorees
Thursday, October 2 at 6:30pm
Houston Country Club, 1 Potomac Drive
The Scenic Houston annual fall event raises money to advance the organization’s mission – policies that strengthen economic development, foster a sense of place and enhance land values in our region. Strengthening sign regulations, recognition of scenic cities and advocating for urban forestation funding are current priorities. In 2008, Scenic Houston celebrated its 42nd year of working to stop visual blight and improve the appearance of our streetscapes. Enhancing the aesthetic, recreational, and natural aspects of Houston creates a livable city that promotes prosperity and growth. Each year we honor individuals and communities that fully support scenic efforts within the City of Houston
Honorees
Our 2008 Scenic Visionaries are Cece and Mack Fowler, who have devoted a significant portion of their public and personal lives to improving the visual appearance of Houston and beyond through their leadership on the boards of Scenic Houston, Scenic Texas, Scenic America, Trees for Houston and the Quality of Life Coalition.
Our 2008 Scenic Hero is Kay B. Crooker, a leader in championing responsible land use planning and development, who holds the distinction of serving on Houston's Planning Commission by appointment of four mayors. Being a model civic volunteer is Kay's vocation, and she devotes her valuable time to Scenic Houston, Houston Botanical Garden, The Park People, Trees for Houston, and Katy Prairie Conservancy.
Our Scenic Initiative award will be inaugurated in 2008 and presented to Uptown Houston District. Formed in 1987 as the first district of its kind in Texas, Uptown Houston District has long served as a demonstration of the results of thoughtful, effective land use planning and regulation: a thriving office, residential and retail environment amid lush landscaping, controlled yet effective signage, and aesthetic amenities.
Event Chairs: Ann Lents and David Heaney
Honorary Co-Chairs: Barbara and Gerald Hines
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Click Here to see Prior Award Recipients
Scenic Houston Scenic Star Awards
Q: What is a Scenic Star?
A: An individual, organization or project recognized for a positive contribution to Houston’s aesthetic environment in any or all of the following aspects:
- Trees & landscaping
- Preservation of green space and natural environment
- Sign controls
- Unity of design within a defined area (e.g. office park, retail center, neighborhood, etc)
2008
Sabine Promenade (BBP)
The Sabine Promenade is a 23-acre downtown waterfront park on Buffalo Bayou between Sabine and Bagby Streets. This beautiful waterfront park is increasingly becoming the scene of live music events, canoe and kayak trips, hikes, educational family events and leisure activities for people of all ages. Artwork along the promenade underscores its location and the interconnection of Buffalo Bayou and Houston's history. The Sabine Promenade is not only a welcome addition to downtown Houston but an outstanding example of a successful public/private partnership.
Westway Park (David Wolff, Wolff Companies)
In developing Westway Park, the Wolff Companies have created a corporate office environment that both preserves and enhances the natural environment. They have planted, and required their purchasers to plant, tens of thousands of trees, shrubs, and annuals. Building materials, and signs in particular have been carefully regulated to prohibit visual clutter while still providing necessary information. Located within this office environment, the Carolyn Wolff Park protects a diverse grove of more than 80 native Texas hardwood trees, many of which are more than 100 years old. This project has truly set a standard for others to follow in maintaining existing trees and enhanced landscaping well beyond City or County requirements.
Previous Award Recipients
- 2007 – Chuck Carlberg, CM Adrian Garcia, CM Sue Lovell
- 2006 – Art Storey
- 2005 – Robert Norris
- 2004 – CM Pam Holm
- 2002 – Garnet Coleman