All we are saying is give Troost a chance...

People know I'm one of those recycle nut jobs that can't bring himself to throw away a plastic bottle or aluminum can. Many is the time I have anxiously prowled a room clutching an empty can and looking for a recycle bin. I don't even remember how I got this way. It's just in my DNA, like instinctively putting on my seatbelt or flinching when I see a Catholic nun with a yardstick in her hand. (12 years of parochial school, I'm still recovering) I frequently talk about recycling at forums. When I do I always try and mention the recycling center at 47th and Troost. Also frequent are the private comments I receive afterwards about not using the center "because I'm afraid to go down on Troost." It's tough to convince people otherwise. Especially the seniors who have seen Troost when it really was a dangerous place to be. Change comes slowly, but it can be nudged along if our leadership is willing to lead by example. The following is a shameless plug for the Troost Avenue I know. Troost is a great place to run. Especially between 47th and 63rd. Most of the shopkeepers are very conscientious about keeping the sidewalks clean. I have never felt unsafe jogging down Troost. Most times I get curious looks or even some good-natured ribbing from people on the sidewalk. "How far ya goin?!" or "It's too hot/cold to be runnin' man!" Troost has its problems. I'm not such an eternal optimist that I can't remove my rose-colored sport goggles and see some things that need to change, but the first change that needs to happen is for people like me to keep going to Troost. My good blogger buddy Dan over at Gone Mild was questioned by a commenter about "where are any cool places on Troost?" Here's my favorites. 10,000 Tulips on Troost - Everybody's getting in on planting some flowers. Soil Service Garden Center - 7130 Troost. Who hasn't been there? Everyone I know that is serious about all things landscaping will tell you Soil Service is the only place to go. Hollywood Video - 63rd & Troost. I usually go to SRO Video but Hollywood Video scored major points with me when they were the only shop in town that had "An Inconvenient Truth" and "Who Killed The Electric Car" in stock on a snowy Friday night. Advance Auto Parts - 57th & Troost. Maybe not "a cool place" but the people that work there are extremely helpful. I always feel like I'm walking in to a shop full of old friends. Durwin Rice Decoupage - 5516 Troost. Nationally known artist Durwin Rice makes gluing colorful paper on things more than just a grade school art project. Be prepared for an enthusiastic canine greeting when you come in! They're small dogs. They just want some love. Mike's Tavern - 5424 Troost. Major UMKC and Rockhurst hangout. Rough wood floors, pool table and live music. They even let old guys like me in once in a while. The Coffee Break - 5400 Troost. Big lounge area and free WiFi. What more could a laptop toting nerd like me desire? Go Chicken Go - 5101 Troost. If you have to ask, then you won't get it anyway. Ideal Garment & Scientific Panty - 4518 Troost. One of a kind clothing by Susan Weigand in an old converted firehouse. Don't let the dogs scare you, they also just want some love! These are just some of the places. Come on down to Troost folks. You might just enjoy yourself.