Look who's at the door asking to come in, and other events

Out walking today, noticed an interesting item at the dumpster, couldn't think what I'd wanted such a thing for, continued walking, came home around the back to find neighbor doing something very strenuous with a concrete umbrella stand. 

Pausing to help round up the Fluffy Runner aka Appie the Shi Tzu, he was glad to straighten up and chat about tomatoes. Loads of green ones on the plants, and last night temps were at freezing. What to do?

So i suggested he yank out the plants, strip off the toms and ripen them on the windowsill. New idea to him. His partner, the good cook, was there helping patiently to hold the concrete stand, and wondered what if they didn't ripen. 

Whereupon we started talking about breaded fried green tomatoes, which interested her. And about how to plant next year's tomatoes now. By taking one off the stem, putting it where you want it next year, and stamping on it. I did this year after year in my old garden, only bought tomato plants one year. This interested him. I'm an equal opportunity talker.

Next thing I'm on my way with samples.

Then a while later a homeless plant showed up. Could I house her? Too many plants next door, what with dogs and cats and pandemonium. I allowed as how I could. Can't remember for the life of me what it is.  

Any help on an ID? Some kind of palm.

Then I suddenly remembered why I wanted this lampstand at the dumpster.

 And to see why, go 

HERE