Coalition Notes 04-20-2011

1. Energy Corridor District and National Park Service Release West Houston Trails Master Plan Study. After extensive public meetings, volunteer based committees and public agency input, the Energy Corridor District and the National Park Service announce the completion of the comprehensive study known as the West Houston Trails Master Plan. The vision for the West Houston Trails Master Plan is to create a 100+ mile interconnected trail system within 113,000 acres of West Houston while respecting the natural ecosystems and cultural resources of the area. Once implemented, the West Houston Trails Master Plan will compliment the existing transportation corridors, increase commuter choices, provide greater outdoor recreational opportunities and develop safe routes to schools and other public places. More at http://www.energycorridor.org.
2. Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education 7th Annual Benefit Golf Tournament. The Golf Tournament, which serves as a fundraiser for Wildlife Rehab & Education, will be held April 27th, 2011 at Evergreen Point Golf Club in Baytown. Team sign ups are still available. Contact EJ Rogers at erogers28@comcast.net or call 281-468-7440. For more information on the tournament, visit http://community.icontact.com.
3. Houston Tomorrow reports on Houston Annual Survey. ‘Strong unmet demand for urban choices’ A large proportion of Harris County residents would prefer a more urban lifestyle, according to the new 2011 Kinder Institute Houston Area Survey. More on the Houston Tomorrow website.
4. 3rd Annual 4 The Park Run a Huge Success. The event, presented by KBR, hosted 2,093 participants, including 101 children who took part in the Kid’s K race. The rain stopped just minutes before the gun start of the 4 mile run, with the first place winner coming across the finish line 19 minutes and 32 seconds later. The Michelob Ultra Post-Race Party, deemed the “best post-race party ever” was enjoyed by all who participated in the run, enjoying food and beverages from more than 25 different vendors as well as visiting with our sponsors. More on the MPC website.
5. Air Alliance Houston seeks help for White Stallion decision. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has “go” or “no-go” decision making power on approval of the White Stallion coal plant, a project that could greatly impact air quality for all Houston area residents and future generations. In particular, the agency has the power to request that an Environmental Impact Study be conducted ensuring full disclosure of what we’re truly facing should the plant receive the necessary permits. Read more on the Air Alliance website.
6. Plastic Pollution Texas seeks help with Bottle Bill. The longer house Bill 2114 and Senate Bill 1119 go without a hearing in the committees, the harder it will be to pass the bill this session. Please consider contacting the chairman of the House Environmental Regulation committee and the Senate Finance Chair. More at http://www.plasticpollutiontexas.com/.
7. Galveston Baykeeper: Keep Deepwater Fines in Gulf. Galveston Baykeepers encourage you to learn more about how Clean Water Act penalties should be directed back to the Gulf Coast Region. More here.
8. Celebrate Earth Day! There are many events taking place in Houston over the weekend to celebrate Earth Day. The following are two featured events:

• Earth Day Houston Festival – Party for the planet! The festival is on April 23 from 10am-4pm on Discovery Green.
  http://www.earthdayhouston.org/
• Children’s Museum Earth Day Bash – Learn simple ways to help preserve Earth while having tons of fun! This will occur on April 21st from 10am-8pm at the Children’s Museum of Houston.
  http://www.cmhouston.org/