A hosta and hydrangeas make an eye-catching combination in this garden on West Third Street.

Herald-Leader

All of us have wanted to peek over a wall, sneak a look through a fence or strain to catch a glimpse of something just out of view.

The Gratz Park Neighborhood Association is offering a chance to do just that on Sunday with a tour called Secret Gardens, Fountains & Patios.

Opening the gates into the private gardens is a first for the neighborhood, said Carolyn Hackworth, who co-chairs the event with Sharon Reed and Geneva Davidson.

"These are all gardens that are not seen from the street," she said.

Visitors will have a chance to see 11 gardens in the historic neighborhood near downtown, including Hackworth's small patio garden, a space with a lap pool and what is thought to be one of the oldest elm trees in Lexington.

Some homeowners have extended their indoor space, creating outdoor "rooms," such as the three neatly arranged sections behind the gate at 258 Market Street. There, even espaliered pear trees add to the dcor, creating a green patchwork on a red-brick wall.

Hackworth suggests allowing two to three hours for a leisurely stroll through all the gardens. Homeowners will be on hand to answer questions.

Hackworth can share with visitors the history of a 200-year-old ginkgo tree that is thought to have been planted by Lucretia Clay, the wife of noted 19th-century statesman Henry Clay.

Excerpt from:
Gratz Park neighborhood opens garden gates for a tour

RIVERBANK -- The standoff over potted plants at a Central Valley apartment complex is branching out.

The controversy cropped up this week when residents in the Willow Pointe Apartments in Riverbank, about 5 miles northeast of Modesto, complained about rules limiting them to no more than three plants on their patios. The property manager says the rule ensures patios are clutter-free and provides first responders with quick access to apartments.

Residents have dug in and say they keep their patios tidy no matter how many geranium, hibiscus and other plants they have.

Julie Nylen,of the complex's management company sent residents a letter dated May 31 saying they could have their leases canceled or not renewed if they did not abide by the rules. But she said Wednesday that she "doesn't have any plans to, currently" evict those who have more than three potted plants.

Nylen is president of Arizona-based Landmark Management Group, which manages the 24-unit complex for low-income seniors and the disabled.

The fire chief also weighed in when asked by The Bee.

Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District Chief Steve Mayotte said he understands the property manager's concerns but said limiting residents to three potted plants "might be a little strict."

David Cordes, the president of the Colorado company that built and owns Willow Pointe, has said he's required to keep the complex safe as a condition of his loan

That includes, he said, limiting the number of patio plants.

Willow Pointe resident Clarita Neal, 68, is not convinced. She said other apartment complexes for low-income seniors and the disabled have lush lawns and landscaping and lots of potted plants.

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Apartments' limit of 3 potted plants 'might be a little strict'

RIVERBANK -- The standoff over potted plants at the Willow Pointe Apartments keeps growing more roots.

The controversy was unearthed this week when residents complained about rules limiting them to no more than three plants on their patios. The property manager says the rule ensures patios are clutter-free and provides first responders with quick access to apartments.

Residents have dug in and say they keep their patios tidy no matter how many geranium, hibiscus and other plants they have.

But those who have more than three potted plants learned Wednesday that they don't face being evicted.

"I don't have any plans to currently," said Julie Nylen, president of Arizona-based Landmark Management Group, which manages the 24-unit complex for low-income seniors and the disabled. She sent residents a letter dated May 31 saying they could have their leases canceled or not renewed if they did not abide by the rules.

The fire chief also weighed in when asked by The Bee.

Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District Chief Steve Mayotte said he understands the property manager's concerns but said limiting residents to three potted plants "might be a little strict."

Nylen also took steps Wednesday to have the weeds removed from the complex after The Bee published photos this week of them poking through the landscape rocks in the complex's common areas. Residents had complained that management ignored the weeds while cracking down on potted plants.

One of the on-site managers trimmed weeds with a weed whacker Wednesday. Nylen said she didn't realize there were so many or they had grown so tall.

But Willow Pointe resident Clarita Neal, 68, said plenty of on-site managers have whacked weeds over the years only to have them grow back. She and other residents want a permanent solution to keep the weeds from coming back.

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Potted plant plot thickens at Riverbank complex

Ottawa has more than a dozen hookah bars that offer tobacco-free smoking. (CBC)

A committee of Ottawa city councillors has approved a motion to ban the use of hookas in parks, but stopped short of banning them on patios and inside restaurants.

The hookah, or nargile, is a Middle Eastern water pipe that can be used to smoke herbal products other than tobacco.

The city's smoking bylaw was extended this year to extend to patios, city parks and beaches, but the bylaw only deals with tobacco and not other substances.

Hookah bars sell products that are typically a blend of molasses and fruit, although some hookah bars illegally cut the blend with tobacco at customers' requests.

The city committee was considering a recommendation to close that loophole and prohibit the smoking of water pipes and non-tobacco products on outdoor municipal property.

But city lawyers said they want to hear the result on an ongoing court battle in Vancouver before giving councillors an opinion on an all-out ban.

A ban on hookahs in parks must still be approved by full council.

Anti-smoking activists such as Pippa Beck had wanted to see the loophole closed.

"You're still inhaling carbon monoxide, particulate matter and all of the biproducts of combustion, so smoke in the lungs is not a good thing, it's not good for health," said Beck.

Read more here:
Ottawa committee proposes hookah ban at parks

A showdown over outdoor patios and parking spaces is brewing on Main Street Unionville and for safety reasons, Markham council could nix one or the other for good next week. The parking and patio are intertwined, Unionville Councillor Don Hamilton said. You cant have patios when cars are parked there. The problem of patios encroaching illegally onto interlocked parking spaces between the sidewalk and the road on the west side of Main Street Unionville has been around for a number of years, Mr. Hamilton said. He said there are typically only three businesses on the street that put patios out in the summer. Earlier this year, Markham discontinued boulevard patios for public safety reasons. On Monday, the towns general committee will vote on a staff recommendation to prohibit parking on the west side of the street at all times, except from 6 to 9 a.m. Monday to Friday. If passed, about 25 street parking spaces could be lost during peak business hours, Mr. Hamilton said, adding that many merchants on the street already feel there arent enough parking spaces on the east side of the street, behind the shops. If parking stays, Mr. Hamilton said there will be no point at Tuesdays council meeting in considering allowing outdoor patios during summer. According to a staff report, the parking prohibition is recommended to address safety concerns for pedestrians and patio users as well as concerns with obstructed sightlines for vehicles turning off and onto the street. The weekday morning parking allowance is to allow temporary parking during non-peak hours for customers attending the two existing coffee shops on the street. Markham council will also consider a proposed encroachment agreement to allow patios on the street over the summer and into the fall this year. Requirements proposed in the agreement include a $2-million liability insurance (naming the town as an additional insured party) and a submission of a detailed patio plan. Its proposed that smoking and amplified music not be permitted on the patios. Mr. Hamilton said he doesnt mind the patio or the parking either way. Im for safety and Im glad this has surfaced so we can address it, he said.

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Patio vs. parking debate in Unionville

The two parking spaces closest to the South Ends Wholy Grain cafe are just like thousands of others in Boston: patches of public asphalt hard against the curb, designated for vehicles. By this time next year, they could be a park.

City planners are refining a pilot program to turn parking spaces here and in three other neighborhoods into parklets - petite, three-season patios, with benches and planters atop platforms built flush with the sidewalk.

The program, boston.PARKLETS, follows the lead of San Francisco, which boasts 30 parklets, and New York, which unveiled the first of what it calls curbside seating platforms in 2010.

They are part of the growing movement to reclaim urban space for pedestrians and bicyclists and promote public transit. Mayor Thomas M. Menino has proclaimed the car is no longer king, citing the environmental, aesthetic, and health benefits.

It remains to be seen how willingly Bostonians, known for fiercely coveting and protecting their parking spots, receive the parklets.

Vineet Gupta, planning director for the Boston Transportation Department, said the city will work with merchants and neighbors to find appropriate spots, with the first parklets probably appearing next spring. They would scarcely put a dent in the citys 8,000 metered spaces and untold thousands of unmetered and resident-permit spots, but they would enliven areas with heavy foot traffic otherwise lacking in public amenities, he said.

The city will pay to design and install the first parklets, estimated to cost $12,000 each, while asking businesses, nonprofits, and civic associations to sponsor maintenance of plantings and furniture.

Wholy Grain owner Ken Hassett agreed to be the first partner, while the city is scouting sites in Jamaica Plain, Mission Hill, and Allston. Should the program grow, local businesses or groups would be asked to pay for installation as well as maintenance.

As a business owner, Hassett said he likes adding a colorful, informal swath of outdoor seating near Wholy Grain, tucked into the first floor of a classic brick rowhouse at Shawmut Avenue and Hanson Street. As a resident who lives a few paces away, he likes what it promises to do for pedestrian life.

Some of the people Ive spoken to so far were slightly hesitant about, Oh, were going to lose a parking space, Hassett said. But then they began to think about it and think what a novel idea it would be.

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Boston looks to transform parking spots into small parks

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

Summer is here and that means its time to take advantage of as much outdoor time as possible before the cold creeps back in. The Detroit area offers a ton of summer entertainment and is home to a number of area bars that feature outdoor patios, frosty and fruity cocktails and spectacular views. These patios are a great way to enjoy a cool summer drink in the warm city sun while taking in amazing of the downtown skyline.

Photo Credit: 1917americanbistro.com

This newer Detroit bistro features traditional American cuisine with a touch of Italian flare at reasonable prices. The restaurants rooftop patio is popular with customers and occasionally features entertainment, including poetry nights. The ambiance inside is just as nice with a fabulous window view and gorgeous art gallery. 1917 American Bistro is also known for its friendly staf, quick service and awesome juice bar. For those who prefer non-alcoholicsummertime drinks, the juice bar provides delicious fruit blends for the perfect accompaniment to any Detroit sunset.

Photo Credit: motorcitybeer.com

Small and simple, this popular chalet-style brewery is known for its handcrafted, unfiltered, unpasteurized brews, all of which can be found on tap. Located in the heart of Detroits cultural center, beer isnt the only thing that keeps Motor City residents coming back. The brick-oven pizzas are a hit with visitors who can also munch on typical bar food as well as seasonal dishes. Another draw is the establishments rooftop patio with a fantastic view of the Midtown area. Every Wednesday, Motor City Brewing Works has a revolving art show featuring a different local artist each week, and the brewery also hosts weekly bike rides for some good, old-fashioned summertime fun. Make sure to check out the Summer Brew, a wheat beer that goes perfectly with a slice of orange, a great June to August drink.

Related:Best Outdoor Bars in Detroit

Photo Credit: Bookies Bar N Grille via Facebook

Bookies Bar & Grille is one of the areas best sports bars, and a great place to head before and after the big game. The restaurants party atmosphere and three levels of entertainment make it a popular hangout. Downstairs is a mob-themed bar and often features a live radio show, the hottest DJs and rocking live bands. The upstairs level is where the restaurant can be found, and features typical bar food like hamburgers, a variety of sandwiches and mouthwatering appetizers. But what makes this a truly great bar in the summertime, is Bookies rooftop patio; it has a great view of downtown, making it the perfect people-watching spot. Take advantage of the daily happy hour and game day specials to save a few bucks. Shuttle service is even available to the Detroit Tigers, Red Wings and Lions games during each of the seasons.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock.com

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Best Summertime Bars In Detroit

From NeighborhoodNotes.com: If there's one thing Portlanders know, it's that it's never too cloudy, rainy or cold to sit outside. That's why so many patios are built to stay open all year long. But sometimes the sun does shine, and when it does, you'll most likely find yourself soaking it in or relaxing beneath an umbrella while enjoying a cheeseburger, digging into a vegan rice bowl, or kicking back with a cup of joe or a nice, cold beer. Looking for such a place? Keep reading. Rontoms Prior to its public unveiling in the summer of 2011, the unused space behind this living room-style bar and music venue was nothing much to look at. Now, its one of the city's largest, most relaxing patios comprised of wooden decks and picnic tables, complete with long wooden benches that wrap around the patio's perimeter and (surprisingly comfortable) red plastic chairs. And if you'd rather not sit, you can always challenge your friend to a match at the Ping-Pong table. Forecast: The entire space, inside and out, is licensed to hold up to 550 people and about 70 percent of the seating is out back, so you should never have trouble finding a table. SPF: The space near the patio's outdoor bar (only open on weekends) is covered, but the rest of the patio is exposed to the rain and sun. But since the bar opens at 4:30 p.m., the sunlight is of the late-afternoon and setting-sun variety. Advisory: Smoking is permitted, but dogs and kids are not. In fact, you must be at least 21 years old to enter. Also, the very narrow inside path near the bar leading to the back patio is often crowded with bodies waiting for a drink. So be patient and polite when making your way to the patio. Barometer: Vegetarians will enjoy the grilled cheese and tomato soup, while carnivores will like the hamburger topped with seasonal ingredients. And while Rontoms has no specialty cocktail menu, it does have a full bar and a staff of knowledgeable people tending it. Rontoms, 600 E Burnside St., 503.236.4536 READ THE REST at NeighborhoodNotes.com

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6 (more) Portland patios for soaking up fresh air, sunlight, food and drink

No restaurant meal quite matches the tenor of spring and summer like al fresco brunch. Usually a little fancier and more expensive than breakfast, it also should be lazier and with less agenda. Dining outdoors just feels less formal. And theres implicit permission to imbibe, no matter how early.

Inspired by the season, I sought out regular restaurants that serve brunch every weekend which meant not just the ones that hit the big holidays. Daily breakfast places werent in the mix, either. A patio was a requirement, and was often the star. Here are four of my Boise patio brunch favorites:

DOWNTOWN AT THE MARKET

RED FEATHER LOUNGE 246 N. 8th St., Boise, 429-6340 Brunch: 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Brunch is not just breakfast with booze here. Red Feather serves the harder-to-find Saturday brunch as well as Sunday, the cocktails are of high design, and the menu is no obligatory punch list of morning standards. This is the place to go with friends to start your birthday or the morning after a great rock concert.

On Saturdays, the petite, umbrellaed patio is flush with the noisy pulse of the Capital City Public Market. Our dining group drank down sweet heirloom tomato Bloody Marys ($4 small/$9 large) and a carafe of mimosas ($6.50). A few feet away, a busker played Oasis Wonderwall twice in a row. Moments later, a man in a Superman costume strutted through the crowd on stilts.

Like the rest of the Red Feather menu, brunch is aimed locally and will satisfy the foodie with items like duck eggs with spicy braised kale and goat cheese ($8). But the food is not too proud to please broader palates. The pancetta-duck egg pizza ($11) is outstanding to share the yolks become a sauce, and the crust itself is only a breath or two away from the best pizza in town at Casanova or Tonys. Like a western incarnation of fried chicken and waffles, the crackling chicken on a biscuit ($9) is matched with incredibly rich cream gravy and a hidden layer of sweetness. One item in particular is a revelation. The oatmeal souffl ($5) is part buttery oatmeal cookie, part pillowy custard, and will change the way you think of sweet breakfast food.

Small details are attended well. For a dish like the grapefruit brulee ($2), with a torched pane of sugar, the challenge is to keep the fruit cold and it was. And out on the patio, in the cool building shadow at high noon, our server overheard two guests at the next table say they were a bit chilly. Without a word, he returned with fleece blankets.

BUFFET-STYLE

MURPHYS SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE 1555 Broadway Ave., Boise, 344-3691 Brunch: 10 a.m. 2 p.m. Sunday

The rest is here:
Brunch on Boise's patios

When the tomatoes are planted, old daffodil foliage is cut back and the beds are weeded and mulched, it's time to add the final touch -- tropicals that give your porches and patios a little island mystique.

And, since tropicals typically come in basic plastic pots that can be slipped into boldly colored ceramic pots, they can instantly turn any outdoor space into a party place. String a few lights, light some tiki torches and your decor needs nothing but Jimmy Buffet music and some good eats.

If you're really in a generous mood, let each of your guests take a tropical home.

In cold climates, tropicals are good for one season only, unless you have the patience to try to over-winter them indoors or in a temperate garage.

Too many people take home a tropical hibiscus, thinking they can put it in the ground and enjoy it year after year. Left outdoors, those hibiscus die when the first hard frost occurs in October or November.

If you remove a tropical from its plastic pot and plant it in a decorative container, make sure the pot has ample drainage holes. Use only good potting soil, not garden soil, which is too heavy. Fill the new pot with one-third potting soil. Remove the tropical from its container and tease or loosen any matted, circling roots. Place it in the new pot and fill in with more potting soil. Water thoroughly. If the potting soil settles, add more soil and water again.

Tropicals are heavy feeders, so regular fertilization with a water-soluble food meant for flowering plants or a time-released granule mixed into the potting soil keeps the plants blooming. Some potting soils have fertilizer already mixed into them, but they are often only good for a few weeks.

During hot summer days, potted plants need daily, sometimes twice daily, watering because the soil heats up and dries out quickly.

Here's a glimpse at some of the new sun-loving tropicals you'll find from companies such as Monrovia ( http://www.monrovia.com ) and Hines ( http://www.hineshort.com ). Monrovia is found at independent garden centers; Hines is available at garden centers and stores such as Lowe's, Home Depot and Wal-Mart.

Mandevilla Bride's Cascade: These summer-long flowering vines come in all colors, including a new white one called Bride's Cascade. The vigorous plant, which grows 15 feet long, needs a strong support system, including a fence, trellis or arbor.

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Colorful tropical plants add a bit of island mystique