The Bay Area Observer Serving Communities Along Galveston Bay VOLUME 2, NO. 02
By The Bay
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
CCISD Welcomes The New Year And A New Mentor For Students
Seabrook: 8th Seabrook Annual Lucky Trails Marathon Meador Park March 19, 2011 Sign up now! Runners and walkers welcome. Join us for our eighth annual Seabrook Lucky Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, and Relay! Saturday, March 19, 2011 •Half Marathon - 7:30 A.M. •2 person Half Marathon Relay 7:30 A.M. Sunday - March 20, 2011 •Marathon - 7:15 A.M. •Half Marathon - 7:30 A.M. •4 person Marathon Relay - 7:15 A.M. •Early start for Full Marathon Walkers - 5:30 A.M. Venue Name: Meador Park Location: 2100 Meyer Rd, Seabrook, TX 77586 Admission Cost: pre-registration Phone: 1-866-611-4688 Web:www.seabrookmarathon.org Email:seabrook_marathon@att.net
Administrative Professionals Meeting Cullen’s Grille January 17, 2011 On Monday, January 17, 2011, Cindy Price will present “Good People Skills Are All About YOU!” at the first 2011 meeting of the International Association of Administrative Professionals-Clear Lake/ NASA chapter. This program will be an entertaining and informative session for improving interpersonal and customer relations skills. All administrative professionals throughout Houston and the surrounding areas are welcome. The meeting/dinner begins at 5:45 p.m. at Cullen’s Grille. Please make your reservations to attend this meeting by January 13, 2011. For reservations and more information on this chapter, please visit www. iaap-clnac.org or contact 281-9102297.
Becoming a Woman of Faith Bayshore Baptist Church - La Porte Ladies, please join us at Bayshore Baptist Church for a new book study - Becoming a Woman of Faith. Best-selling Bible teacher, Cynthia Heald offers a realistic perspective for today’s Christian woman. From facing challenging circumstances to being real before God, Becoming a Woman of Faith, is a Bible study that helps women learn what it means to walk with faith in the real world and honor Christ with their lives. This Bible study lasts 13 weeks and has been created to help you search the Scriptures and draw closer to God as you seek to make God a priority in your life. The class is free! Contact the church office for more information at 281-271-0332.
Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser January 28, 2011 5:00 – 7:30 Pm Bay Elementary In Seabrook Off Hwy. 146 At Kenneth Royal Dr. Dinner ticket includes spaghetti dinner, dessert and beverage. Come join us for dinner and the silent auction for the benefit of the NEW Evelyn Meador Library coming in 2011. See an Evelyn Meador Board Member for your ticket or buy them at the door. There will be a Special book signing by Ruth Burke for her new book on Seabrook History and a silent auction. Continued on page 2
INDEX Community..........................2 Crossword...........................2 Education............................3 Science & Health................4 Arts & Entertainment........5 Obituraries..........................6 Loacl News..........................6 Classifieds............................7 Cuisine.................................8 In The Garden.....................8
CCISD’s new CASE manager Jennifer Emshoff helps 11th Grader Kimberly Lott position her animal in the practice ring. Growing up, Jennifer Emshoff spent every weekend, spring break and summer vacation at her grandparent’s ranch in Bedias, Texas. She followed her grandfather around, rode horses and worked cattle never thinking she was learning a variety of life-long skills. The Texas native graduated from Klein High School and entered Texas Tech University as a premed student. The ambitious doctor-to-be found a mentor and ended up in the operating room watching surgeries. But one semester, on a lark, she took an agriculture class and five days later changed her major to Ag
Education. Her mother was less than pleased. “She just about fell out of her chair,” explained the new manager of Clear Creek ISD’s Center for Agriculture, Science and Engineering (CASE), “She thought I made wrong decision until she attended the first FFA banquet.” “My mom was in tears and told me ‘I can totally see on your face and how you interact with your kids, you made the right decision.’” The young teacher immersed herself in the world of education, teaching agriculture classes in Galena Park while earning a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction as
City Council Briefs Seabrook City Council Seabrook City Council voted to create a Technology Fund on Tuesday. $50,000 from both the General Fund and the city’s Utility Fund will be transferred to establish the account. The items had previously been tabled in July. The vote was unanimous. A $15,000 annual fee to “Your Town TV” for a video and web marketing package passed by a unanimous vote. The marketing package will be used for Seabrook’s hotels, motels and bed and breakfast facilities. The vote was 6-1, with Kim Morrell opposing an amendment to the item from its original proposal of $22,000. The amendment requires quarterly updates on the amount of website hits the video receives. The $15,000 will be paid for with the city’s hotel tax funds. City council voted unanimously to have the City Manager bring proposed logos before the city council for review at the next regular meeting. The city will hire an additional deputy clerk in the municipal court, and designate a Neighborhood Empowerment Zone, to be known as the State Highway 146 Corridor Empowerment Zone. Both items were voted in unanimously by council. The first reading of a zoning change request to rezone 1.1 acres of property located at Larrabee Street from a Medium Density Commercial District to a Single-Family Residential District was denied with a vote of 6-0-1, with Garry Mack recusing himself from the vote. A zoning change request to rezone 1.24 acres of property at the Lakeside Terrace Subdivision from a Multi-Family Residential District to a Medium Density Commercial District was denied with a vote of 6-0-1 with Gary Mack recusing himself from the vote. A request to rezone property at Larrabee Street from a Medium Density Commercial District to a Single-Family Residential District was denied with a vote of 6-0-1 with Gary Mack recusing himself from the vote. A $28,257 bid to Sylvania Lighting Services, the sole bidder, for an energy efficient lighting project was awarded by a unanimous vote by city council No action was taken regarding a presentation by the Seabrook Police Officers’ Association. The item was rescheduled for the meeting on January 18th.
La Porte City Council On Monday, January 10th, La Porte City Council voted unanimously to appoint seven temporary directors to the La Porte Fire Control, Prevention and Emergency Medical Services District. Dottie Kaminiski, Danny Kampize, Thomas Dye, III, Johnny Jones, Paul Hickenbottom, Rick Guzman and Robert Eldridge, were all appointed to fill the seven appointments. City Manager Ron Bottoms was directed by city council by unanimous vote to move forward with negotiations with hiring a candidate for city secretary. The current position is held by Martha Gillett, who will be retiring on January 19th, 2011. An agreement with Klotz and Associates for additional design services, costing $49,500, and reauthorization of bidding and Continued on page 6
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE!
281-907-3140
well as a master’s in education administration. Emshoff has high hopes for Clear Creek ISD’s CASE program and the Longhorn project. “I think it has a lot of room to grow.” Emshoff is hoping to get the community more involved and has talked with representatives of the Johnson Space Center about going green with the use of solar panels. “I want to pull in more of the environmental aspects into the program as well as the engineering side by working more closely with NASA Education. Besides teaching students the ins and outs of raising longhorns and other animals
to show at statewide livestock shows, CASE also hosts students in grades 3 and 7, teaching them about the genetic altering of food. Emshoff also hopes to collaborate with Career and Technology Education’s Vet tech program. “I want to get the kids out here when the veterinarian is here giving shots and caring for the animals. It would be a great hands-on experience for them.” Most of all Emshoff wants her students and their parents to enjoy the experience of raising an animal. “I am here to teach and to help make them a better person. I still have kids call me long after they graduate and tell me happy birthday which lets me know I’ve made a difference in their life and that’s
the ultimate gratification for a teacher.” The Clear Creek Independent School District has announced their 29th Annual Livestock Show and Auction n Thursday, January 27, 2011. The show will take place at Clear Creek ISD Agricultural Event Center located at 2155 West NASA Parkway in League City. Buyer registration begins at 4:45 P.M. Dinner and entertainment begins at 5:00 P.M. with the Livestock Auction at 7:00 P.M. For additional information please contact: Jennifer Emshoff at 281-244-0978 or email her at jemshoff@ccisd.net or Megan Stokley at 281-2842278 or email her at mstokley@ccisd.net
Front Row from Left ( Matt Clapp, Clear Brook High School Senior) CASE Manager Jennifer Emshoff, Ryan Perkins Clear Lake High School Sophomore, Ricky Cecchini Clear Lake High School Junior. Second Row: Nicole Gripon Clear Lake High School Junior, Lauren Garcia Clear Lake High School Junior, Kimberly Lott Clear Springs High School Junior. Top Row: Noel Sands Clear Lake High School Junior, Tierney Leopard Clear Lake High School Senior & Katie Gillis Clear Lake High School Senior.
Houston Yacht Club Hires Scott Lindley As Club’s Sailing Director
The Houston Yacht Club is pleased to announce the hiring of Scott Lindley as the Club’s Sailing Director. Scott joins the Houston Yacht Club staff from Performance One Sailing Team where Scott is the Owner and Head Sailing Coach. Scott will become a year-round, full-time staff member leading the fleet sailing and youth sailing programs in early January. “The Houston Yacht Club is very fortunate to be able to bring Scott into the mix at the club,” said By Baldridge, Commodore of the Houston Yacht Club. “All sailing classes will be able to benefit from Scott’s National and International level racing experience in a variety of boat classes. Scott is extremely well regarded for his teaching and coaching of youth sailors and we look forward to continued growth of sailing in all classes at HYC.” As Sailing Director, Scott will continue his work as a US Sailing Youth National Team Coach and will bring the highest level of knowledge and skill to the sailors of all ages at HYC. A Club wide meet and greet will be scheduled to introduce Scott to the membership after the Holiday season. A program development meeting for setting the sailing calendar, regatta coverage, training program development and sailing clinics will also be scheduled. For additional information, please contact Jennifer Glass at the Houston Yacht Club at 281-471-1255. Scott grew up sailing and teaching in the San Diego Yacht Club Jr. Program, winning several Jr. National Championships in the Snipe Class and many Naples Sabot Regattas (the Naples Sabot is another pram, similar to the Optimist). He competed in 6 US Youth Championships in Sailboards, Laser II’s and Lasers - Medaling twice. Scott was
Pasadena Plumbing Services, Inc. “For All Your Plumbing Needs”
281-487-4688
fortunate to have great coaches growing up like Mark Reynolds, JJ Isler and Brian Ledbetter - All Olympic Gold Medalists! Scott sailed collegiately for the College of Charleston on a team that won a National Championship and was never lower than 5th in the country. There Scott sailed Lasers and 420’s and earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Physical Education/Sports Medicine. Scott also did an Olympic 470 campaign with Johnny Lovell who later earned the Silver Medal at the Greece Olympics in the Tornado Class. Scott and Johnny finished 11th out of 40 boats in the US Trials with only 6 months of training and received the Silver Medal in the Olympic Classes Regatta that year. Scott has continued racing in Snipes, J-22’s, J24’s, Melges 24’s, Etchells, E-Scows and PC Class boats. He has competed in Snipe Pacific Coast Championships, Snipe Midwinter Championships, finished 3rd at the Snipe Western Hemisphere Championships in Japan, 7th at Melges SORC, 1st in the Etchells Florida State Championships and 1st in the PC National Championships, along with many other accomplishments. Scott has been the Sailing Director with Texas Corinthian Yacht Club and the Palm Beach Sailing Club, as well as the Assistant Sailing Director at Lauderdale Yacht Club. He has worked as a sail maker with Banks Sails and North Sails. In his numerous years of coaching Optimist sailors, most of his kids have reached Team Trials and qualified for International Teams. Many of Scott’s students, new and old are at the top of the results sheet at the major regattas. It is quite clear that Scott’s passion is sailing and this passion is instilled in his students.
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE!
281-907-3140
PAGE 2
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
COMMUNITY Seabrook Golf Cart Inspections Start January 19th GOLF CART INSPECTIONS: Jan. 19 from 6-8 PM at Lake Cove Pool/Boat Ramp Area, or Jan. 22 from 9 AM until Noon at the Seabrook Island Pool/Boat Ramp Area Bring your golf cart to the inspection site. Golf Cart Requirements for Registration: HEADLAMPS (24 to 54 Inches above the ground) TAIL LAMPS (15 to 72 Inches above the ground) REFLECTORS (15 to 60 Inches above the ground) PARKING BRAKES REARVIEW MIRRORS SLOW MOVING VEHICLE EMBLEM (Reflective Triangle) COPY OF LIABILITY INSURANCE COPY OF DRIVERS LICENSE More information can be fouund at the City of Seabrook’s website at: www.ci.seabrook.tx.us
Skywarn Training Class In La Porte February 22, 2011 The Office of Emergency Management will host a Skywarn Training class on Tuesday, February 22nd from 6:30-9:00 PM at the La Porte Police Department building. The Police Department is located at 3001 N 23rd Street, La Porte, TX 77571. Skywarn is a group of trained volunteers that watch the skies during severe weather and relay reports back to your local Emergency Management Office and/or the National Weather Service (NWS). These volunteers provide valuable information to the NWS to improve the warning program which could save lives and prevent property damage in your community. For more information about Skywarn, visit www.srh.noaa.gov/hgx. To register for the class, contact Kristin Gauthier at (281) 470-0011, or gauthierk@laportetx.gov.
Volunteers From First United Methodist Church Act As Santa’s Helpers At The Boys And Girls Harbor Christmas Party. Submitted by Jay Dunham
The fifth annual “Briskets For The Bowl” fund raiser sponsored by the United Methodist Men’s (UMM) ministry of First United Methodist Church La Porte will benefit the Boys and Girls Harbor facility in neighboring Morgan’s Point. Boys and Girls Harbor is a 501(c)(3) state licensed home which welcomes children in need, suffering from abuse, neglect or abandonment. The children live in a family style environment filled with love and care. First United Methodist Church La Porte has been providing voluntary services to the home for many years. The UMM cook 12-15 lb briskets all day Friday and will have them ready for pick-up at the church parking lot at 9601 W. Fairmont Parkway, La Porte on Saturday, February 5, 9:0012:00 noon, in time for Super Bowl XLV. The tax deductible donation is still only $45.00. Tickets for purchase are available from any UMM member, the church office (281-478-4673) or Vince Chamberlain (281-814-8393).
Second Chance Pets
Alex is a 6-week-old mix of a puppy. His vet says he will be a large breed but his parents both weigh around 20 pounds. The mother looks like a Pomeranian-Chihuahua mix and the father is a cream-colored curly mix. Whatever he is – he’s adorable and will be available for adoption in February. He has another sister and Make a commitment to Reconnect with Nature at Armand Bayou Nature Center by joining us a brother, too. For more information on Alex or his in our new “Sundays in Nature Series” beginning in January 2011. From 1pm – 3pm each third siblings please email SCP at pets2adopt@yahoo.com Sunday of the month, the Nature Center will host programs allowing you to better understand the or call 281-286-3535. SCP adoptables are shown on natural world around us. The series is designed to make our community Healthier, Happier and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Petco store (Bay Area and Space Center Blvds.) and at the Petsmart store Smarter in Nature. Each program will feature speakers, presenters and/or activities for children across from Baybrook Mall the first and third Sundays and adults alike. Visit our website at abnc.org for details. of every month. Cats may be seen during the week at Join us on January 16th for the first of our Sundays in Nature Series “Resolution to Go Green”. the Petco location and photographs of most adoptables Learn about simple things that you can adopt to make a difference inside and outside of your home. are posted on our website http://www.secondchanMake a really fun eco-craft, and join us for a guided hike through the Nature Center to the Bayou. cepets.org. Almost all SCP animals are fostered in local Don’t miss the fun and excitement as ABNC brings you our first “Sundays in Nature Series”. Ad- homes because it does not have a shelter. As always mission to Sundays in Nature is $3 for non-member adults and $1 for children 4-12 and seniors 60 PLEASE SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS. Second and older. For more information, phone 281-474-2551. Nature Sunday is replacing Second Satur- Chance Pets is a nonprofit 501 (C) (3) animal welfare organization. All donations are tax deductible. day – So, mark your calendars for the third Sunday, 1-3pm.
Sundays in Nature Series at Armand Bayou Nature Center
Bayside Area Little League Spring 2011 Baseball Registration Bayside Area Little League Spring 2011 Baseball Registration Boys & Girls ages 4 – 12 (as of April 30, 2011) You are within the Bayside boundaries if you live in Seabrook, Kemah, El Lago, Clear Lake Shores, Bayview, Taylor Lake Village, parts of League City including the following subdivisions: Bay Ridge, Glen Cove, Harbour Park, Lakeside, Marbella, Marina Bay Park, Marina Del Sol, Whispering Lakes Ranch, South Shore Park, Baycliff north of Gordy Road, and Shore Acres south of Fairfield. Registration Dates are as follows: Saturday January 15th 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Thursday January 20th 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday January 22nd 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Please bring the following to registration: • Certified Birth Certificate - To show proof of child’s age • Proof of Residency - To verify child’s residence is within league boundaries (Voter’s registration, utility bill, lease, mortgage statement are all acceptable proofs of residency. Driver’s license will not be accepted.) 2011 Fees: Age 4 T-Bits $70.00 Ages 5-6 T-Ball $80.00 Ages 7-9 Dixie $90.00 Ages 10-12 Texas/Majors $110.00 Challenger Division $25.00 A late registration fee of $25.00 applies after 02/4/2011. Seabrook Sports Complex, Field House 2, 1805 N. Meyer Avenue, Seabrook. *Please note that all dates are subject to change. Please check the Bayside website for any updates, www.eteamz.com/bayside.
The Bay Area Observer Established in 2006
Serving the communities along Galveston Bay.
Editor & Publisher...........Rebecca Collins editor@bayareaobserver.com
Associate Editor................Carolyn Collins carolyn@bayareaobserver.com
Sales Representative............Jeanne Sadler Seabrook, Kemah Area
832-421-4777 • sales@bayareaobserver.com
Sales Representative.....Beverly Lawrence La Porte Area
281-793-7961 • blawrence506@msn.com Opinions in this paper are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the newspaper. Any erroneous statement which may appear will be corrected if brought to the attention of the publisher. Liability for errors is limited to the reprinting of the corrected version. Submissions are encouraged by mail, by fax, or by email to editor@bayareaobserver.com.
P.O. Box 305 • Seabrook, Texas 77586 Phone: 281-907-3140 • Fax: 866-596-8973 Email: editor@bayareaobserver.com
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Continued from page 1
2011 Arbor Day Planting January 15th, 2011 Pecan Park, La Porte The 2011 Trees for Houston “Arbor Day Planting” will take place Saturday, Jan. 15th from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m at Pecan Park in La Porte. Pecan Park is located at 3600 Canada Drive, La Porte, TX 77571. Volunteers are needed to plant 2,011 trees. Lunch will be provided by Phoenicia Specialty Foods. For more information, including directions, log onto www.treesforhouston.org or call (713) 840-8733. Please RSVP to randi@treesforhouston.org.
BAND and BAAD Women to Hold Combined Meeting Jaunuary 20, 2011 7p.m. Bay Area Community Center at Clear Lake Park Dr. Bob Stein, a Rice University political science professor and frequent guest on local television news programs, will talk about the recent elections and upcoming redistricting in the state and city at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 20 in Clear Lake. Bay Area New Democrats (BAND) and Bay Area Association of Democratic (BAAD) Women will combine their monthly meetings for January. The meeting will be at BAAD Women’s usual meeting place at the Bay Area Community Center in Clear Lake Park, 5002 NASA Parkway. Social time begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the program at 7.
Got A Commmunity Event Coming Up? Email us at editor@bayareaobserver.com
Dunham’s Tax Service 816 South First Street La Porte, Texas 77571
Tel: 281-471-4892 • Fax: 281-470-7419 Open six days a week 9 to 5
Thank you for reading our advertising! We have been in business here in La Porte for sixty-three years. We are proud to be the oldest Accounting and Tax Preparation firm in East Harris County. We support youth programs, education, churches, anything to better our community. We are aware of most businesses in our community. If you need a particular expertise, give us a call. We may be able to help you. Our Tax Preparation fees for Individuals, Partnerships, and Corporations are quite reasonable. Our turnaround time is usually three days. We can also do your Nortorizing for Documents when needed. Thanks for reading our letter and come meet us.
The Dunham Family
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 3
EDUCATION Lil’ Abner Set To Debut In February At Education Village
La Porte ISD’s School Health Advisory Council Earns Awards
All students in the Education Village were given the opportunity to audition and be a part of Lil’ Abner, the first musical produced at the new Clear Creek ISD PreK-12 complex. The idea is to start a tradition of cooperation among the Fine Art Departments of Mossman Elementary, Bayside Intermediate and Clear Falls High School, giving students of all ages the chance to work together. The public is welcome to attend. Show times and ticket prices are listed below. Lil’ Abner Clear Falls Performing Arts Center Auditorium Feb 3-5 at 7 pm Feb 6 at 2 pm Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $8.00 for students (available at the door) Dianna Moore - Director Jill Fetty - Choral Director Elizabeth Townsend - Choreographer Adrian Washburn, Doug Eger, and Dean Beltran - Orchestra Directors
La Porte High School To Present Meredith Willson’s The Music Man The La Porte High School theater and music departments are preparing for the production of Meredith Willson’s The Music Man. Performances are Jan. 27, 28, 29 and Feb. 3, 4, and 5 at the Sonja Angelo Theater at La Porte High School. Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m. except for the Feb 5 performance, which will begin at 8:30 p.m. Matinee performances will be presented on Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. and Feb. 5 at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 27, is senior citizen “Gold Card” night. Senior citizens with a Gold Card can get one free ticket for this performance during regular ticket sales. Gold Cards are available at the La Porte ISD Administration Building, 1002 San Jacinto St. Tickets are $12.00 each, and all seats are reserved. Tickets go on sale beginning Monday, Jan. 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Sonja Angelo Theater lobby.
Report Of Vehicle Following Students In Fairmont Park West Area, La Porte Because your child’s safety is important to us, we wanted to make you aware that several students reported that a white SUV with a black luggage rack followed them as they were walking home from school in the Fairmont Park West area this afternoon. The La Porte Police Department was called, and the police are investigating. In an abundance of caution, and with this occurring on Friday afternoon, we wanted parents to know so that you will remind your children of the importance of being aware of their surroundings at all times. Please encourage them to report suspicious behavior or vehicles to a trusted adult, and to never get into a vehicle with someone they do not know. We appreciate your help. Following is a letter from LPISD Superintendent Lloyd D. Graham Dear Parents,
Members of La Porte ISD’s School Health Advisory Council were recognized for receiving the Characteristics of an Effective School Health Advisory Council Award and the Reaching for Excellence Award during the December meeting of the La Porte ISD Board of Trustees. In front from left are SHAC members Dr. Abdul Moosa, April Fox, Jo Johnson, Jill Sibley, Jill Gonzalez, Melissa Larkey, Veronica Torres, Laura Lynch, Brian Larkey, Cynthia Gonzales and Shannon Gibbs. In back are Baker Sixth Grade Campus principal Cynthia Anderson, trustees Craig Hulcy, Dee Anne Thomson and Bill Snead, Heritage Elementary principal Danette Tilley, trustee Kathy Green and SHAC representative Debbie Moye.
La Porte ISD’s School Health Advisory Council has received the Characteristics of an Effective School Health Advisory Council Award from Region XIII Education Service Center and the Texas Education Agency for the 2010-2011 school year. This award showcases districts that are demonstrating excellence and effectiveness in enhancing the health of students, staff and community members within their local school districts. The Texas Education Code requires that each independent school district have a School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), which is made up of representatives from the community within the school district they serve. More than half of the SHAC members must be parents of students enrolled in the district and who are not employed by the district. Additionally, SHACs must meet at least four times per year, contain a minimum of five members, report directly to the school board at least once annually, and appoint a parent as a chair or co-chair. The grant awards for Characteristics of an Effective School Health Advisory Council are made in an effort to highlight district SHACs that go above and beyond the minimum requirements of the law.
Because your child’s safety is important to us, we wanted to share with you information about a situation that occurred the afternoon of Friday, January 7, 2011. A parent notified us that several students reported that a white SUV with a black luggage rack followed them as they were walking home from school Friday in the Fairmont Park West area. The La Porte Police Department was called, and the police are investigating. In an abundance of caution, we wanted to make families who live in the area aware of the situation. Because this happened on a Friday afternoon, we utilized our telephone call-out system to notify parents of Reid and Rizzuto students, but wanted to follow up with a letter for those who may not have received the message. We hope that you will remind your children of the importance of being aware of their surroundings at all times. Please La Porte ISD’s Special Education Departencourage them to report suspicious behavior or vehicles to a trusted adult, and to never ment will present “A Showcase of Programs and Agencies” on Jan. 25 in the La Porte High get into a vehicle with someone they do not know.
As a result of this award, each grant recipient will receive $4,500 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to improve the health of all students and families within their community through a coordinated school health approach. The SHACs can use the funds to enhance the implementation of school health programs with a focus on health education and HIV prevention. Other Texas school districts honored included Austin, Burleson, Canutillo, Clyde, Conroe, Fort Bend, Granger, Hays, Houston, HurstEuless-Bedford, Livingston, McKinney, Rockwall, Rusk and Troy. La Porte ISD also received the Award for Excellence in Texas School Health/Reaching for Excellence Award sponsored by the Texas Department of State Health Services’ School Health Program. This award was presented in recognition of the district’s plan for the “Lean, Mean, and Screened” program for the EKG screening of student athletes. The award includes $1,200, which will be used to help fund the screening program. The district will be recognized at the Texas School Health Association Conference Awards Banquet scheduled for Jan. 28, 2011, at the Marriott Houston Westchase.
La Porte ISD Special Education To Present “A Showcase Of Programs And Agencies” On Jan. 25
Thank you for your cooperation. Sincerely, Lloyd W. Graham Superintendent
Seabrook Massage & Herbal Merchant New Services! 1 Hour Relax Massage w/20 min Meditation
1 Hour Relax Massage with Hand & Foot Exfoiliant
Includes 1 Hour massage to relax the muscles then 20-25 min guided meditation to relax the mind! You will be more relaxed than you ever knew you could be!
(includes Exfoiliant of hands and feet with a Green Tea Mint exfoiliant andmoisturizure). Your hands and feet will feel like silk!)
$75
$75
School Student Center. The event will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Representatives from a variety of programs and agencies will be on hand to talk with parents about services for special education students. Among the programs to be represented at the event are Department for Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), Diversity Day Activities of Deer Park, La Porte Police Department, The Heart of Sailing, La Porte ISD Autism Program, Special Olympics, Special Programs Organized Recreational Therapy, Neighborhood
Centers, Inc., United Way and Spina Bifida Association. In addition, the expo will include representation from Youth Services, La Porte Head Start Program, The Opportunity Center, La Porte High School Career and Technical Education Program, Families CAN (University of Houston), Houston Volunteer Lawyer Program, Harris County Library, Verne Cox Multipurpose Center, La Porte ISD Visually Impaired Program, and many more. Refreshments will be served, and door prizes will be awarded. A children’s play area also will be available.
The
Bay Area Observer Find us on
Open: Tues-Fri 10am-6pm • Sat 10am-4pm Sun By Appointment • Closed Monday
Fischers
1214 Moskowitz • Seabrook Texas 77586
281-942-9102
www.seabrookmassageandherbs.com
Hardware Fischers hardware has been in this location for over 25 years serving the community with your building needs along with paint and plumbing supplies. The Garden Center can handle all your outside needs.
Fischers Truly “Does It Best” 1012 S. Broadway • La Porte • TX • 77571 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
(281) 470-0171
Mon.-Fri • 7:30 to 7 Sat. • 8 to 6 Sun. • 9 to 5
PAGE 4
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
SCIENCE & HEALTH Hubble Zooms In On A Space Oddity One of the strangest space objects ever seen is being scrutinized by the penetrating vision of NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. A mysterious, glowing green blob of gas is floating in space near a spiral galaxy. Hubble uncovered delicate filaments of gas and a pocket of young star clusters in the giant object, which is the size of our Milky Way galaxy. The Hubble revelations are the latest finds in an ongoing probe of Hanny’s Voorwerp (Hanny’s Object in Dutch), named for Hanny van Arkel, the Dutch teacher who discovered the ghostly structure in 2007 while participating in the online Galaxy Zoo project. Galaxy Zoo enlists the public to help classify more than a million galaxies catalogued in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. The project has expanded to include the Hubble Zoo, in which the public is asked to assess tens of thousands of galaxies in deep imagery from the Hubble Space Telescope. In the sharpest view yet of Hanny’s Voorwerp, Hubble’s Wide Field Camera 3 and Advanced Camera for Surveys have uncovered star birth in a region of the green object that faces the spiral galaxy IC 2497, located about 650 million light-years from Earth. Radio observations have shown an outflow of gas arising from the galaxy’s core. The new Hubble images reveal that the galaxy’s gas is interacting with a small region of Hanny’s Voorwerp, which is collapsing and forming stars. The youngest stars are a couple of million years old. “The star clusters are localized, confined to an area that is over a few thousand light-years wide,” explains astronomer William Keel of the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, leader of the Hubble study. “The region may have been churning out stars for several million years. They are so dim that they have previously been lost in the brilliant light of the surrounding gas.” Recent X-ray observations have revealed why Hanny’s Voorwerp caught the eye of astronomers. The galaxy’s rambunctious core produced a quasar, a powerful light beacon powered by a black hole. The quasar shot a broad beam of light in Hanny’s Voorwerp’s direction, illuminating the gas cloud and making it a space oddity. Its bright green color is from glowing oxygen. “We just missed catching the quasar, because it turned off no more than 200,000 years ago, so what we’re seeing is the afterglow from the quasar,” Keel says. “This implies that it might flicker on and off, which is typical of quasars, but we’ve never seen such a dramatic change happen so rapidly.” The quasar’s outburst also may have cast a shadow on the blob. This feature gives the illusion of a gaping hole about 20,000 light-years wide in Hanny’s Voorwerp. Hubble reveals sharp edges around the apparent opening, suggesting that an object close to the quasar may have blocked some of the light and projected a shadow on Hanny’s Voorwerp. This phenomenon is similar to a fly on a movie projector lens casting a shadow on a movie screen. Radio studies have revealed that Hanny’s Voorwerp is not just an island gas cloud floating in space. The glowing blob is part of a long, twisting rope of gas, or tidal tail, about 300,000
light-years long that wraps around the galaxy. The only optically visible part of the rope is Hanny’s Voorwerp. The illuminated object is so huge that it stretches from 44,000 light-years to 136,000 light-years from the galaxy’s core. The quasar, the outflow of gas that instigated the star birth, and the long, gaseous tidal tail point to a rough life for IC 2497. “The evidence suggests that IC 2497 may have merged with another galaxy about a billion years ago,” Keel explains. “The Hubble images show in exquisite detail that the spiral arms are twisted, so the galaxy hasn’t completely settled down.” In Keel’s scenario, the merger expelled the long streamer of gas from the galaxy and funneled gas and stars into the center, which fed the black hole. The engorged black hole then powered the quasar, which launched two cones of light. One light beam illuminated part of the tidal tail, now called Hanny’s Voorwerp. About a million years ago, shock waves produced glowing gas near the galaxy’s core and blasted it outward. The glowing gas is seen only in Hubble images and spectra, Keel says. The outburst may have triggered star formation in Hanny’s Voorwerp. Less than 200,000 years ago, the quasar dropped in brightness by 100 times or more, leaving an ordinary-looking core. New images of the galaxy’s dusty core from Hubble’s Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph show an expanding bubble of gas blown out of one side of the core, perhaps evidence of the sputtering quasar’s final gasps. The expanding ring of gas is still too small for groundbased telescopes to detect. “This quasar may have been active for a few million years, which perhaps indicates that quasars blink on and off on timescales of millions of years, not the 100 million years that theory had suggested,” Keel says. He added that the quasar could light up again if more material is dumped around the black hole. Keel is presented his results on Jan. 10, 2011, at the American Astronomical Society meeting in Seattle, Wash.
Central Vision Is Essential
By Deborah S. Bernay, O.D., Andreane B. Fagala, O.D., and Patricia A. Galos, O.D.
While age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been the leading cause of blindness among adults over 50 in this country, new treatment options may provide a better future outlook. Chief among these is ranibizumab (Lucentis), which has become the standard of care for “wet” AMD. This form of AMD, which affects 10% of sufferers, occurs as the result of unstable, leaky blood vessels that grow underneath the retina,
Got A News Tip? Let Us Know At
The Bay Area Observer 281-907-3140 Or Email Editor@ BayAreaObserver.com
causing fluid and blood to leak and can then result in scar tissue formation. This scarring may cause permanent vision loss. However, Lucentis has proven itself to be the first drug not only to halt the progression of wet AMD, but also to reverse vision loss in some cases. The most notable symptom of macular degeneration is blurry or distorted central vision. Difficulty reading, doing close work, or driving may also be no-
ticed. Please call LaPORTE VISION CENTER at 281471-6546 to schedule an eye health examination that includes a screening for macular degeneration and testing of your vision. Using state-of-the-art equipment, we can diagnose an eye condition in its early stages- when treatment is most effective. Our practice is located at 401 West Fairmont Parkway, Suite A. Helping you and your family see into the future.
Keep Your
With An Annual Eye Exam At
La Porte Vision Center Helping You And Your Family See into The Future
Deborah S. Bernay, O.D. Andreane B. Fagala, O.D. Patricia A. Galos, O.D. 401 W. Fairmont Pkwy., Suite A • La Porte
281-471-6546
www.laportevision.com Check insurance for vision benefits. La Porte Vision accepts most major insurances and routine vision plans
For Second Time San Jacinto Methodist Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program Certified by National Association
San Jacinto Methodist Hospital is proud to announce the certification of its Cardiac Rehabilitation Program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). The hospital was recognized for its commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care. Cardiovascular rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems (e.g. heart attacks, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, etc.) recover faster and improve their quality of life. These programs include exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families. San Jacinto Methodist Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program joins other AACVPR-Certified programs as leaders in the field of cardiovascular rehabilitation. AACVPR certification recognizes outstanding programs that follow best practices in patient care and program management. “This is the second time we have received certification from the AACVPR and we are excited because it shows that we continue to provide excellent care to our patients.” said Laura Weldon, Exercise Physiologist.
The AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-reviewed accreditation process designed to review individual facilities for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by the AACVPR and other professional societies. Each program is reviewed by the AACVPR National Certification Committee and certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years. The Cardiac Rehabilitation program at San Jacinto Methodist Hospital is designed to benefit people with heart disease through supervised exercise and education. The program offers two phases of Cardiac Rehabilitation: Phase II – 36 sessions (or 12 weeks) monitored by EKG during exercise. Phase II is covered by most major medical insurances and Medicare for those who meet their requirements. Phase III – Self-pay, non-monitored program for an unlimited amount of sessions. There is a monthly fee comparable to a gym membership for Phase III. For more information on the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at San Jacinto Methodist Hospital please call 281-420-8878.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 5
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Texas Hippie Connection
Peace, Love and the ancient pastime of Hookah By Rebecca Collins editor@bayareaobserver.com
The Texas Hippie Connection held their grand opening festivities on Saturday, December 4th at their new location at 2234 Nasa Parkway. Guests were treated to a glass blowing demonstrations by a world renowned blower named Midas. The artist Clay Brothers, awed onlookers with with his twisted wood designs. Chicken Wing a local tattoo artist held an onsite tattoo expo. Live music was provided by Houston’s own Footpie as well as Sun Salutation out of Austin. Texas Hippie Connection provided barbeque and baked goods. Texas Hippie Connection is the largest smoke shop in Texas. This unique shop hosts an upstairs gallery with over 25,000 pieces of glass creations and a gallery of Hookahs in every shape and size. All items sold here are legal, and Hookahs are used for smoking a flavored tobacco called ShiSha. The downstairs gift shop has some unique products which include tye-dye products, incense, hemp bags and accessories, and tobacco products. In case you’re wondering just what a Hookah is, here is a little background information: The origin of Hookah smoking can be dated to the North Western provinces of India alongside the border of Pakistan. Following popularity among noblemen, this device for smoking soon became a status symbol for the Indian aristocracy and gentry. The hookah pipe is also known as the Marra pipe in the UK, especially in the North East, where it is used for recreational purposes. The Hookah’s popularity has risen dramatically in North America recently, and Hookah Bars are popping up all over Texas. But if you want to experience this ancient pasttime for yourself, you’ll have to stop by the Texas Hippie Connection. Drop by and meet Turtle, the owner, who can introduce you to this unique and perfectly legal experience. You can’t miss him. He’s in the bright purple, green and black building on NASA Parkway in Seabrook. You’re guaranteed to be impressed.
Unexpected Mystery On Stage In Nassau Bay
NOTICE: The Arts Alliance Center At Clear Lake will NOT be doing Movie Night or Jazz Night in January due to a conflict with the Rodeo Art Exhibit. Both events will resume in February. For more information, please call TACCL at 281-335-7777.
The Arts Alliance Center At Clear Lake Small Works by Great Minds
What’s beautiful, yet enigmatic…larger than life, yet very small…and intense, yet entertaining? Mona Lisa knows, and it’s putting a smile on her face! Over 100 Bay Area Houston artists will be featuring their own unique take on marvelously miniature works of art at this very popular annual TAACCL fundraising event. The art, which can be in any medium in any subject, must be no larger than 11x14. Patrons can preview and bid on the silent auction art works during the Center’s regular business hours, 10 a.m to 6 pm starting
Tuesday, February 1. Join us for an exciting, fast-paced evening of fun! Bernie Sandner, Mark Stanley, & Alane Johnson
“Get there early, because you might miss the chance to bid on some great pieces of art,” said artist and auction chairman Richard Williams. “This progressive silent auction releases the first 25 artworks off the wall at 7:30. The second wave of art will be taken off to the highest bidder at 8:00. The Live Auction begins at 8:30 and then the last of all art will be closed at 9:00. It makes for a very fast-paced evening!”
Agatha Christie’s The Unexpected Guest opened last week at Clear Creek Community Theatre. This twisted tale of murder is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat as some of the most talented actors in the Bay Area perform for your entertainment. There are only two weekends of performances left so don’t miss your chance to try and figure out “who dun it” in this classic Agatha Christie tale. Tickets are $14.00 for adults, $12.00 for students and seniors and $10.00 for groups What: The fourth annual Small Works by Great Minds Auction of 10 or more. Curtains are at 8PM Friday and Saturday nights with Sunday matinees at 2:30. Clear Creek Community Theatre is located at 18091 Upper Bay Road in Nassau Bay. Visit the When: Thursday, February 3 from 6 pm to 9:30 pm theatre’s website at www.clearcreekcommunitytheatre.org. For reservations call 281-335-5228. Where: The Arts Alliance Center at Clear Lake, 2000 NASA Pkwy, Nassau Bay (directly across from JSC) Tickets: $10 per person and are available at the door or in advance through our website. Visit www.taaccl.org. Entertainment: The evening’s emcee is Pam Culpepper, and the auctioneer is Steve Phelps. Music provided by Fuzzy Side Up. Catering: by Family Cuisine. Cash bar. Mona Lisa, who favors the Small Works by Great Minds auction with her “presence” every year, was quoted as saying, “Y’all need to be there!”
The Arts Alliance Center At Clear Lake Upcoming Events The Arts Alliance Center, in partnership with the Freeman Memorial Library, is pleased to announce the Winter 2011 two-person exhibition by area photographers Peter Bowman and Jane Chance. As you enter the library, please stop and peruse the collection of compelling photographs they have each amassed from their independent travels. The exhibition will remain on display until April. Jazz Night at The Arts Alliance—we took a short break for December, but we are back on for the New Year! When: Thursday, February 10 at 6:30 pm Where: The Arts Alliance Center at Clear Lake, 2000 NASA Pkwy, Nassau Bay Tickets: $5 per person at the door. Beverages are available for purchase. The Jazz: Sparky Koerner and the Jazz Express will be entertaining this evening, but don’t forget… as always, it’s Open Mic Night! And be sure to put your name in the raffle. Information about February’s Movie Night event is to be announced.
Visit us on the web at www.bayareaobserver.com
PAGE 6
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
LOCAL NEWS OBITUARIES Gwendolyn Imogene “Jean” Chapman May 10, 1930 - January 7, 2011
Gwendolyn Imogene “Jean” Chapman, 80, of Bremond, passed away on Friday, January 7, 2011 at St. Joseph Regional Healthcare in Bryan. Jean was raised in Baytown and moved to La Porte when she married Gerald Shelton Chapman in 1946 where they raised 6 children. She later moved to Bremond in 1983 where she joined the Pentecostals of Robertson County Church, and met many friends who became family to her. She was heavily involved in her church, and faithfully led Sunday school class for over 15 years. She loved to sing and she visited the Bremond Nursing Home weekly. She often ministered to prisoners.
Being the mother of 6 rodeoing sons, she comforted and fed many, many cowboys and cowgirls. She loved being surrounded by her family, which included over 40 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Jean was preceded in death by her husband Gerald Shelton Chapman, her son Claude V. Chapman, an infant daughter, her brother Jimmy Short “Uncle Brother”, and her sister Gloria Baker. She is survived by her sons Gerald Lonnie Chapman of St. Croix, Virgin Islands, Donald James and wife Sharon Kay Chapman of Austin, Texas, Richard Oliver and wife Annette Chapman of Milano, Texas, Clyde Edward “Big” and wife Colette Chapman of Humble, Texas, and Shelton Eugene Chapman of Bremond, Texas. She is also survived by her brother Bernis Wayne and wife Billie Short of Baytown, Texas, her sister Frances and husband Tom Davis of Channelview, Texas, her sister-inlaw Mary Larson of Pasadena, Texas and Daughter-in-law Dianne Chapman of Dickinson, Texas, and her grandchil-
dren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Visitation was from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, January 9, at Bremond Funeral Home in Bremond. Services were at 3 p.m. on Monday, January 10, at Pentecostals of Robertson County Church in Hearne, Texas. Graveside service was at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 11, at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery in Houston. Arrangements were under the direction of Bremond Funeral Home.
City Council Briefs... Continued from page 1
construction phase services for the Sheet Flow/Underwood Relief Project was voted on unanimously by city council. City council also voted unanimously to execute an agreement with Klotz and Associates for additional design services for the Brookglen Detention Project. Cost will not exceed $14,000. The authorization of an expenditure of $180,000 by the La Porte Development Corporation Board to fund the installation of bulkheads at the city’s golf course was voted on unanimously by city council.
El Lago On Wednesday El Lago City Council voted unanimously to approve an interlocal agreement with Harris County regarding the expenditure of Texas Development of Rural Affairs Grant funds for Hurricane Ike recovery-related projects. Hurricane Ike recovery grant funds are being used by the city to purchase and install generators at the police station at City Hall, and at the water treatment plant for Water Control and Improvement District No. 50. Council Member Cody Taylor was appointed to the Public Safety Committee by a unanimous vote by city council. The imposition of an additional penalty on delinquent taxes was authorized by a unanimous vote by city council. An interlocal agreement with Harris County for the oversight of the construction of El Lago’s new community center was tabled as no agreement has been provided by the county. Recommendations to use Blackboard Connect System by the Lakeview Police Department was voted on unanimously by city council. It was recommended that police personnel be trained in using the Blackboard Connect System , which is capable of sending out alerts to citizens in emergency situations. Plans for the city’s 50th anniversary celebration was discussed, and the celebration should take place at the end of March. The city council discussed The celebration is planned for the last weekend in March.
Clear Lake Shores On Tuesday, Clear Lake Shores City Council voted unanimously to approve a schedule of city and police department holidays for 2011. The holidays will include an observance of President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veteran’s Day. Thanksgiving and Christmas will receive two holiday days each. A floating holiday and a birthday holiday will also be offered by the city. Memorial contributions may A cash balance summary for the city for December 29 was voted on unanimously by city council. be made to the Pentecostals of A cash total of $1,944,167 is currently available to the city. Robertson County, P.O. Box No action was taken on the pending litigation in the matter of William F. Young vs. City of Clear 597, Calvert, Texas 77837. Lake Shores, et. al. The item was discussed during an executive session. A public hearing was held for the proposed annexation of a 0.8767 acre tract of Jarboe Bayou. The public made no comments.
Evelyn Hoot Kennedy
Evelyn Hoot Kennedy, 96, of La Porte, passed away on December 27, 2010 at the home of her daughter Martha Alexander, in Kyle, Texas. Evelyn was born June 4, 1914 in Seadrift, Texas to Elizabeth “Bessie” and Frank Hoot. Evelyn graduated from Crosby High School in 1932 and moved with her family to La Porte, where she met her husband of 63 years, Dan Kennedy. Dan and Evelyn moved up and down the Texas coast before permanently settling in La Porte in 1944 where they raised their two daughters Martha Alexander of Kyle, Texas and Danlyn Van Stone of Pensacola, Florida. Evelyn was a member of the First United
Methodist Church of La Porte where she was an active volunteer with the Methodist Youth Fellowship, a Church Choir member and Sunday School teacher for many years. She also was a member of the Girl Scouts of America for 50 years and one of the few people to receive the organizations highest award: the Thanks Award. Evelyn was a social worker for Neighborhood Centers and was honored to have the Evelyn Kennedy Civic Center named for her. She was a Past Matron of La Porte Chapter 683, Grand Chapter of Texas Order of the Eastern Star and received the Mason’s Community Builders Award. She taught an exercise class from 1956 until May of 2010. She was also active in the La Porte Historical Society, Literary Club, Civic Club and the Senior Center. Over her life she received many awards for the dedication and service to La Porte and its citizens including the Gus Gross Humanitarian Award and the International Award-Volunteer of the Year with Neighborhood Centers. She loved working with children in whatever capacity. In her retirement years she and her husband traveled the
M L M
TAX & FINANCIAL SERVICE ACCOUNTANT/TAX PROFESSIONAL
Federal & State Income Tax • QuickBooks • Payroll Management Bookkeeping • Asset Allocation • e-file Available
MARIANNE McBRIDE • 281-482-2228 301 OLD COURSE DR. FRIENDSWOOD, TX. 77546 MARIANNE@MLMDOESTAXES.COM • WWW.MLMDOESTAXES.COM
Beverly Lawrence Independent Beauty Consultant
Call for an appointment at our studio location and get a free facial and glamour makeover. Corporate Gift Giving In Home Consultations & Free Delivery
281-793-7961 Shop online at www.marykay.com/blawrence5 Ask me about Mary Kay opportunities
world to many European countries, the Holy Lands in Israel, cruised the Panama Canal, the Caribbean and Alaska, and visited Australia, Hawaii and Tahiti. They were also members of the Rovin’ Texans RV Club. They flew to or drove in their RV to every state in the United States. Evelyn is preceded in death by her parents, husband, sisters Emogene Brummerhop and Margaret Durbin. She is survived by her sister Beulah Strange and brother Frank Hoot; daughters Martha Alexander and husband Albert and Danlyn Van Stone and husband Loren; grandchildren Molly Erpenbach, husband Gary; Sally Bittick, husband Bill; Troy Van Stone, wife Pamela; Louis “Skip” Klement, wife Donita; and Greg Van Stone, wife Renee; 13 greatgrandchildren and 5 greatgreat-grandchildren. The memorial service will be held on Saturday January 15, 2011 at 2:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church of La Porte, 1601 W. Fairmont Parkway. A reception will follow the service. Evelyn has donated her body to science and will be cremated. Her and Dan’s ashes will be scattered by the family.
Kemah City Council On Monday by unanimous vote, Kemah city council changed the council’s regular meeting dates to meet on the first and third Thursday of each month. City council’s current meeting dates have been on the first and third Mondays of the month. The best days to hold meetings was discussed by Mayor Matt Wiggins with council members before the vote. January 20th will be the first meeting to be held under the new schedule. A contract with Wiredin.cc for website services which includes a Kemah Tourism website was voted on unanimously by city council. A contract proposal from White Knight Technologies for the maintenance of the city’s website will be considered for approval at the next city council meeting. A site-seeing license was granted to Kemah Escape Hotel/David Mowry to conduct tours of the city by horse carriage by unanimous vote by city council. Action was postponed for a request of $15,000 in Hotel Occupancy Tax funds for the Kemah Crawfish Festival, as well as a request for Hotel Occupancy Tax funds for a proposed billboard for Kemah. An amendment to the Kemah Community Development Corporation budget was postponed by city council.
Martha Gillett to Retire as La Porte City Secretary
La Porte’s City Secretary Martha Gillett will be retiring this month, along with her husband Steve Gillett, after both have provided decades of service to the city. Gillett began her 25-year career in public service with La Porte in 1981, and left in 1989 to work for the City of Friendswood. Gillett then returned to La Porte in 1997, where she has remained since. Her husband Steve, who is the director of public works for La Porte, has worked for the city for 35 years. Gillett said the two have a boat they plan to
enjoy during their retirement. “We hope to take it all the way at least to Florida, and just enjoy life” she said. Her last day with the city will be January 19, and Steve’s on January 20. The city will hold a retirement party for them both at the Evelyn Kennedy Center on January 20. Gillett invited the public to attend the celebration. The city council considered candidates for the next city secretary during a meeting Monday night, which was the last Gillett attended as city secretary.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 7 CLASSIFIED DISPLAY RATE...........................................$8.50 p.c.i. (Classifieds display ads can contain a border and bolded letters)
CLASSIFIED ADS
CLASSIFIED LINER ADS First 20 Words (initial insertion)...................................................$7.50 First 20 Words (subsequent insertions)...........................................$4.50 Additional Words.............................................................10 cents each LEGAL NOTICES Legal Notices . $8.00 per column inch Liquor legals . $10.00 per column inch Classified deadlines are 10 a.m. each Monday
SERVICES
ALL CLEAN LAUNDRY 1109 S. BROADWAY
LA PORTE WASHATERIA DROP OFF SERVICE AVAILABLE OPEN DAILY 5AM - 9PM “Come Clean With Us”
HELP WANTED DRIVER CDL-A Stay loaded and earn big! Our drivers run more miles. $500 sign-on bonus, new trucks coming soon. Flatbed division CDL-A, TWIC card and good driving record. Western Express; 1-866863-4117 DRIVER CDL-A: Regional runs; I-35 corridor, stay in Texas, home most weekends. Great pay, benefits, paid orientation, 8 month OTR experience. deBoer Transportation Inc. 1-888730-9312 DRIVERS-OAKLEY TRANSPORT OTR positions now available in your area. New equipment, premium pay package, great benefits. Need Hazmat and TWIC card. Call 1-877882-6537 for your opportunity today! www.oakleytransport.com DRIVER- Up to 3¢ performance pay in 1st year. Weekly hometime, average 2,400 miles/week! Local orientation. Daily or weekly pay. CDL-A, 6 months OTR experience. 1-800414-9569. www.driveknight.com DRIVERS-ASAP! New pay increase; 34¢-40¢ cpm. Excellent benefits, need CDL-A and 3 months recent OTR. 1-877-258-8782, www.meltontruck.com
DRIVERS-OWNER OPERATOR! $2000 sign-on bonus paid in 60 days! New pay increase. Paid FSC. Home daily with local and regional runs based out of Dallas. Call Comtrak at 1-866-338-2958 or apply online at www.comtraklogistics.com
ABSOLUTELY THE BEST VIEW Lake Medina/Bandera 1/4 acre tract, central W/S/E, RV/motor home/house, OK only $830 down $235 month (12.91%/10yr), Guaranteed financing, More information call 1-830-460-8354
DRIVERS-FOOD TANKER drivers needed OTR positions available now. CDL-A with Tanker required. Outstanding pay & benefits; call a recruiter today! 1-877-810-1041, www.oakleytransport.com
AWESOME 1 ACRE Lake access homesite with hugh views of the 3rd largest lake in Texas. Paved roads, water, electric and phone with high speed internet included. Build when you want. Was $49,900 now $29,900. Call now 1-214-613-1284.
NATIONAL CARRIERS needs O/O’s. Lease purchase. Company drivers for it’s expanding fleet. Offering Regional/OTR runs. Outstanding pay package, excellent benefits, generous hometime. 1-888-707-7729 www.nationalcarriers.com
BANK REPO’D 5 ACRES! This big, beautiful five acre property is perfect for the horse lover with access to a state-of-the-art equestrian center, stable and miles of riding trails. Clear title, survey. Priced way below market value at $29,900! Call 1-903284-2521.
SLT $3000 BONUS team drivers needed. Class ACDL with Hazmat and 2 years experience. Teams split up to $1.10/mile. Flatbed owner operators $1.40/ mile. 1-800-835-9471. THE MASON & DIXON Lines; Experienced Owner/ Operators wanted, daily settlements, no forced dispatch, fuel discount programs, flatbed & van divisions. Contact Donna, 1-877-242-1276 or dreynolds@madl.com
REAL ESTATE
BUY MY LAKEFRONT -Get my boat! 1 acre dockable lakefront on 3rd largest lake in Texas with brand new Sea Ray boat for only $99,900. Lakefront was $124,900 and boat retailed for $30K. Must have quick sale. 1-214-5061043
FINANCIAL CASH NOW! GET cash for your structured settlement or annuity payments. High payouts. Call J.G.Wentworth. 1-866-SETTLEMENT (1-866-7388536). Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau. $10,000 OR MORE in debt? Credit cards, store cards, medical bills. Help eliminate harassing calls. Debt free in 12-48 months. Free consultation, 1-800631-9149. Debt Help Experts
$106 MONTH BUYS land for RV/motor home/ house, pier, boat ramp, pool, clubhouse, gated entry, on Lake Fork, $690 down ($6900/10.91%/7yr) Guaranteed financing, 1-214-6962315 18.95 ACRES acres, north of Brackettville. Oaks, heavy brush, dry creek bed. Deer, turkey, exotics, hogs. $1,610down, $317/month, ($32,215, 11%-interest, 20-yrs) or TX Vet financing. 1-800-8769720. www.texasranchland. com 676 ACRES-REEVES County, 15 Miles North Pecos. River frontage. Call Jack 1-214-755-6224.
APARTMENTS
WINDSAIL BAY
APARTMENTS 3141 S. BROADWAY LA PORTE
281-471-3061 ONE BEDROOM ONE BATH TWO BEDROOM 11/2 BATH
ROOM FOR RENT
Having A Garage Sale?
Available Now
The Bay Area Observer
ROOMS FOR RENT
LA PORTE Large furnished bedroom. Private entrance with bath. Cable T.V.
$395.00 per month
Need references
281-471-2933 FOR SALE RVS FOR SALE SELL YOUR RV FAST! Online at RVT.com Access millions of RV buyers. Thousands of RVs soldServing RV traders since 1999. www.RVT.com or call 1-877-700-8798
Place Your Classified Ad Today! 281-907-3140
Seabrook Condo
NOW $7.50 buys 20 words Go with your instincts and use the Classifieds today.
The Bay Area Observer
The Bay Area Observer is looking for a commission based advertising sales representative
If you are: A self-starter with the ability to work independently Have a strong and ethical performance
Possess the ability to earn client trust
We’d like to talk to you! Call us at 281-907-3140 or email resume to editor@bayareaobserver.com
Lease for $850 or Sell
In the Classifieds, you can track down deals on everything from cars to canine companions. It’s easy to place an ad or find the items you want, and it’s used by hundreds of area shoppers every day.
ADVERTISING SALES POSITION
Have a passion for making a difference in the community
2br 2 bath, walk in closets, wood burning f/p tennis courts, lovely park across street & good schools Repsdorph and Nasa Pkwy.
Shoppers with a nose for bargains head straight for the Classifieds.
281-907-3140
Possess excellent time management and phone skills
Large 1104sq ft.
Sniff Out a Great Deal in the Classifieds
Advertise It In
281.682.3602
Celebrate 2011 with a Subscription to the
BAY AREA OBSERVER PER YEAR 25 52 Issues a Year
FOR ONLY $
Paid subscribers receive the Bay Area Observer by mail. Fill out the information below and mail in with your payment in the amount of $25.00 made payable to:
The Bay Area Observer • P.O. Box 305, Seabrook, TX. 77586
281-907-3140 Name:_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:_____________________________________________________________________________________________ City:_______________________________________________ State:__________________ Zip:_____________________ Phone:_______________________________________________________________________________________________ VISA
MASTERCARD
P.O. Box 305 Seabrook, Texas 77586
Credit Card #:__________________________________________ Exp. Date:_______/_______ CVV #:______________
281-907-3140
Signature:_____________________________________________________________ Date:_________________________
sales@bayareaobserver.com
3 digit code on back of card
PAGE 8
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
IN THE GARDEN Research at The University of Texas at Austin Shows Sleepless Honey Bees Miscommunicate
When insominator on the left passes over the sleeping bees on the right, they are jostled awake. AUSTIN, Texas — In the busy world of a honey bee hive, worker bees need their rest in order to best communicate the location of food to their hive mates, research from The University of Texas at Austin shows. “When deprived of sleep, humans typically experience a diminished ability to perform a variety of tasks, including communicating as clearly or as precisely,” said Dr. Barrett Klein, a former ecology, evolution and behavior graduate student at the university. “We found that sleep-deprived honey bees also experienced communication problems. They advertised the direction to a food site less precisely to their fellow bees.” To deprive honey bees of sleep, Dr. Barrett Klein used a magnetic contraption called the “insominator” (on the left in photo). Sleeping bees affixed with a small piece of metal were jostled awake when the insominator passed over them. Klein found that sleeplessness led to poor signaling by foraging bees about the
CUISINE Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pie
A time-honored delicacy in southern American states along the Mason-Dixon line, Texans claim to be particularly fond of buttermilk pie. Their reasoning — and the reasoning of folks from other states with a lack of local fruit growers — is that buttermilk pie was a sweet alternative to fruit pie when fruit was not always readily available. Now days modern transportation makes it easy for those of us in Texas to get the fruit we want from our local markets. But we still love our buttermilk pie. This is a wonderful, old-fashioned pie. Don’t be put off by the buttermilk; this is a sweet and flavorful dessert. This recipe makes two pies but if you want just one, it can be easily halved.
Ingredients * 3 cups sugar * 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour * 6 eggs * 1 cup buttermilk * 2 sticks of butter, melted * 2 teaspoons vanilla extract * 2 unbaked 9-inch pie shells
Directions
location of food sources. For humans, imprecise communication can reduce efficiency, cost money, and in some cases, cost lives. For honey bees, Klein says it could affect their success in locating food, which could lead to a less competitive colony. “While the importance of sleep has been studied in Drosophila flies for several years,” said Dr. Ulrich Mueller, professor of biology and study coauthor, “Barrett’s study is the first to address the function of sleep in a social insect in the context of its society, and the first to show that sleep deprivation impairs precision of communication in an insect.” There are various ways to poke and prod humans to force them to stay awake prior to measuring the effects of sleep deprivation. But how to make bees in a hive lose sleep? Klein invented a magnetic machine aptly named the “insominator,” a contraption he passed over quietly resting bees during the night to deprive them of sleep. The bees, outfitted with small metallic backpacks, were jostled into activity by magnets in the insominator, and this was repeated over the course of normal sleep time. Barrett then recorded the behaviors of the sleepless bees and discovered they weren’t able to communicate as well the direction of nectar-filled flower patches to their sisters through their usual waggle dance. “The dance was not necessarily wrong, but it was less precise than dances performed by bees that were not sleep-deprived,” says Klein. “We expect that a less precise dance would lead to fewer followers making it to the food source, and we hope to test this in the future.” Klein is a researcher at Universität Würzburg in Germany. His coauthors include Arno Klein from Columbia University, Margaret Wray and Thomas Seeley from Cornell University and Ulrich Mueller at The University of Texas at Austin. If you want to see a bee trying to communicate to her sisters in a sleep deprived state, go to You Tube and search on “ Waggle Dance Performed by a Sleep – Deprived Bee.
Gardeners By The Bay Upcoming Meeting & Events Gardeners of all levels are invited to attend the Gardeners by the Bay meetings held the first Wednesdays of each month, from September to May, at University Baptist Church (Great Room on 2nd floor) located at 16106 Middlebrook Drive. Members and guests enjoy a light brunch from 9:00 to 9:30 AM. A brief business meeting is then held prior to the main program. Guest speakers present timely programs of interest to all gardeners. Anyone interested is welcome to visit or join. Our membership includes novice gardeners as well as certified Texas Master Gardeners who are eager to share their expertise and knowledge in response to questions and concerns. Local trips are planned each year to gardens or other places of interest to gardeners. Visit us at http://gbtb.org Upcoming Wednesday Meetings: Feb 2 - Kitchen Gardening Mar 2 - Basic Rose Growing in the Houston Area Apr 6 - Identification of Bird Sounds on the Flute with guest artists from the Clear Lake Symphony May 4 - Spring Luncheon Local Trips: February: Painted Churches of Schulenburg April: Visit the Heights district and shops Please call Joanne at 281-286-4938 for information. Looking forward to seeing you !
“Do You Know What Sphagnum Peat Moss Is? Do You Know What It’s Used For?” This article was written by Ken Druse a few years ago for “The Garden Rant.” Ken Druse is a writer, natural gardener, and an award winning author/photographer of seventeen books on gardening. His books are available at most bookstores as well as online at Amazon. By Ken Druse
I asked several gardeners these questions after a lecture I gave in Connecticut a while back. Here are the results of my informal poll. Fifteen out of 20 people did not know what peat moss was, including the manager of a garden center. (He thought it was the same as homemade compost.) Perhaps more surprisingly, seven out of the 20 people did not know what peat moss is supposed to be used for (although they all bought it). One person said her husband spread it on their lawn. Most of the gardeners suggested that peat moss was a mulch to put on top of the soil. Peat moss is the partially decomposed remains of formerly living sphagnum moss from bogs. Because it’s nearly impossible to rewet once it’s dried, it repels water and makes a terrible surface mulch. As a soil amendment, which is what the baled product is mostly sold for, peat moss is also a poor choice. It breaks down too fast, compressing and squeezing air out of the soil, creating an unhealthy condition for plant roots. Peat moss can be a useful growing medium for containers, however, when lightened with a drainage material like perlite. The biggest problem with peat moss is that it’s environmentally bankrupt. Peat moss is mined, which involves scraping off the top layer of living sphagnum moss. The sphagnum peat bog above the mined product is a habitat for plants like sundews, butterwort and bog rosemary, as well as rare and endangered animals like dragonflies, frogs and birds, not to mention the living moss itself. Despite manufacturers’ claims that the bogs are easy to restore, the delicate community that inhabits the bog cannot be quickly re-established. Yes, peat moss is a renewable resource, but it can take hundreds to thousands of years to form. Like all precious wetlands, peat bogs purify fresh air and even mitigate flood damage. And there are archeological reasons to preserve peat bogs. In
the acidic moss below the living layer, wooden artifacts of people who lived long ago survive, even the remains of the people themselves. CO2 is also preserved – trapped in the moss, but released into the air when mined. In fact, peat bogs store about 10% of all fixed carbon. In the U.S., peat moss is almost exclusively used by the horticulture industry. 40,000 acres of sphagnum are currently being harvested in Canada, with 90% of the product destined for gardens in the U.S. In the U.K., where peat moss is burned as fuel, as well, nearly 94% of the lowland bogs have been altered or completely destroyed due to harvesting. And most of our peat is shipped hundreds of miles, often when it’s wet and heavy, which adds further to the fuel required for shipping. Many conservationists, gardeners, and wetlands scientists in these countries have recommended a boycott of peat. The Royal Horticultural Society hopes for a 90% reduction by 2010. Areas in Ireland have already banned the harvesting of peat moss altogether. Producers in both Canada and the United States maintain that they never cut sphagnum faster than it grows, and leave behind enough peat to ensure regeneration. The Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association claims that peat-moss operations keep the bogs from being drained for development, that five to ten years after harvesting, the bog will be a “functioning wetland” again, and that after 25 years, 90 percent of the original flora will grow back. I have my doubts. Some wetlands scientists point out that a managed bog lacks the biodiversity of the original bog. Though gardeners seem to have been programmed to buy peat and are as loyal to the product as some car-buyers used to be about their beloved Pontiacs, there’s simply no need to use it. Chopped leaves make a much better and more attractive mulch, and compost is superior as a soil amendment. If only more Americans could be encouraged to compost. If only corporations started their own composting facilities, and if only more municipalities got serious about composting. In addition to homemade compost, I use coir, a byproduct of the coconut processing industry. This formerly discarded material can be shipped completely dehydrated – very lightweight – which reduces its energy requirements for transporting.
Master Gardeners 2011 Saturday Seminar Series Upcoming Programs The Galveston County Master Gardeners and the Galveston County Extension Office sponsor numerous seminars, workshops, plant clinics and other educational programs throughout the year. All programs are conducted at the Galveston County Extension Office at 5115 Highway 3 in Dickinson and are free to the public except when noted. However due to space limitations pre-registration is required. To register for a program, please call 281-534-3413, ext 1-2 or e-mail GALV3@wt.net.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine all ingredients in large bowl. Mix well. Pour into 2 unbaked pie shells. Bake 10 minutes at 400°F. Reduce heat to 350°F and bake for 45 minutes. Makes 2 pies.
Show Off Your Garden! Do you have a garden or a gardening project you are proud of? Would you like to share it with our readers? Do you have a herb garden, a vegetable garden, or a special rose bush that you inherited from your Grandmother? How about a composting project? We would love to see what you are doing. Please send a couple of photos along with a brief description of your good work to editor@bayareaobserver.com. We will include them in our gardening section.
HOMEGROWN PEPPERS - FROM THE SWEETEST TO HOTTEST
GROWING CITRUS IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD
January 15, 2011 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Presented by Master Gardener Gene Speller. Topics include background and origin of pepper plants; heat value classification (Scoville Units); how to start from seed; culture and growing tips; recommended varieties; insect and disease control; and pepper uses & recipes.
January 22, 2011 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Master Gardener Herman Auer will present a Power Point presentation on how to successfully grow citrus trees. The presentation will cover such topics as rootstock and variety selection, cultural care of trees, typical disease and insect pest problems, control of birds and critters, and freeze protection.
SPRING VEGETABLE GARDENING
MINIMIZE TOMATO STRESS FACTORS TO MAXIMIZE YIELDS
January 15, 2011 1:00 - 3:30 p.m. Presented by Master Gardener Luke Stripling.. Topics include how to get more from your vegetable garden, soil fertility, disease and insect control.
ANYONE CAN GROW ROSES January 22, 2011 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. A PowerPoint presented by Master Gardener John Jons covering the basics of growing hybrid tea roses, including variety selection, bed preparation, planting and culture, insect and disease control.
January 29, 2011 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. Presented by MG Sam Scarcella. An overview of the problems that could be occurring in your tomato garden at this time, and what to do about them.
GROWING BLUEBERRIES January 29, 2011 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Presented by Dr. David Cohen, an accomplished home grower of blueberries by avocation and a practicing physician by trade. Dr. Cohen has an impressive “blueberry patch” as part of his home landscape and has gained considerable hands-on experience with successfully growing blueberries under our growing conditions.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE BAY AREA OBSERVER • 281-907-3140