Observer The Bay Area
COMMUNITY NEWS FOR LA PORTE, MORGAN’S POINT, SHOREACRES, SEABROOK & THE GALVESTON BAY AREA
VOLUME 8, NO. 11
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
Construction On Wharton Weems Monument Continues
La Porte Sexual Assault Suspect In Custody
Samuel Duran 04/15/1978 The architectural rendering above shows Option 3 which La Porte City Council chose as the preferred design for the monument at Wharton Weems and Highway 146. Graphic courtesy of the City of La Porte. By Rebecca Collins edior@bayareaobserver.com
Construction on the median entryway at Wharton Weems Blvd and SH146 by TXDOT is currently underway with the removal of existing concrete, installation of pavers, and installation of irrigation and landscaping. The TXDOT work will occur in two time frames, with the demolition work happening now and the landscape and paver work occurring once the City’s portion of the project is completed. Previous bids received on the project were over budget and Council directed staff to make modifications and re-bid the project. Staff reviewed the bid specifications and made several modifications that were believed to assist in bringing the construction costs within the remaining construction budget. The changes included eliminating all cast stone veneer and changing the lighting from six to four. The modifications will not change the look of the monument, but will be more economical to construct. Capital Signs submitted the lowest qualified bid during the re-bid process in the amount of $50,746. While substantially lower than the other bids, staff determined that all requirements
were met and that Capital Signs had positive reference checks. Staff recommended awarding the bid for the construction of the Wharton Weems entryway monument to Capital Signs in the amount of $50,746, plus a 10% contingency amount for a total project budget of 55,820.60. City council unanimously approved the bid under the consent agenda portion during Monday’s regular meeting. A public hearing was held on Monday to receive comments regarding a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission to deny an Ordinance amending the City’s Future Land Use Plan Component of the Comprehensive Plan for a 6.69acre tract of land known as Tract 19C, Abstract 482 W. Jones Subdivision, located on Fairmont Parkway between Brookwood Drive and Canada Road by changing land use designation from Mid Density Residential to Commercial. An additional public hearing to receive comments regarding the recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission to deny a zone change request for changing the zoning classification of the same property from Mid Density Residential District (R-2) to General Commer-
cial District (GC) was also held. The applicant, Rodney Slaton, on behalf of W.H. Casserly who owns the 6.69 acre tract of land requested the consideration of the proposed zone change to allow for construction of a self-storage/mini-warehouse use on site. The tract is undeveloped and is adjacent at the west to the existing senior care facility. To the north is an existing single family development, Brookglen, with undeveloped property on the east and south. The Planning and Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing concerning the request at a February 16 meeting. The Commission listened to the concerns of four neighbors who currently reside in the Brookglen neighborhood who were concerned about lighting, and drainage. The possibility that the zone change could yield other commercial uses such as bars or auto repair facilities was also a concern. The Commission agreed with the concerns of the residential neighbors and felt that this tract, along with the property to the east lends itself better for residential uses and thus the zoning should remain the same. Council voted to deny both items. Council members Mike Clausen and Daryl Leonard were absent from the meeting.
Beth Brady Insurance, Inc. Named Agency of the Year
As a result of both interagency and communityreinforced teamwork, investigators with La Porte PD were able to identify a
recent sexual assault suspect within a matter of days. Solid work by detectives, officers, and La Porte residents, following a series of alerts and media blasts, channeled the focus of the entire community toward finding the man who investigators believe committed a sexual assault offense within the past week. 38 year old Samuel Duran, of Baytown, was taken into custody by LPPD detectives on the afternoon of Wednesday March 8th. Duran faces a charge of Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon, with the 248th District Court setting his pre-trial bond at $50,000. Duran’s court case will address a March 6th episode involving an attempted sexual assault which took place at a La Porte foot massage parlor, in the City’s 9600 block of Spencer Highway.
Seabrook Police Officer Saves Life At Seabrook Shipyard On Tuesday, March 7, 2017, at approximately 11:00 p.m., the Seabrook Police Department was dispatched to the Seabrook Shipyard and Marina, Pier Number 8, located at 1900 Shipyard Drive in Seabrook, TX. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unconscious female who was not breathing. The female, identified as 40-year-old Crisit Bussard, was reported to have fallen off a yacht into the water and had been under water for approximately five minutes. Seabrook Officer Anthony Jambrik, with the assistance of an unidentified male, immediately began CPR. Officer Jambrik started chest compressions and with assistance performed CPR for approximately seven to nine minutes. Officer Jambrik
was able to revive Bussard as paramedics arrived. Paramedics transported Bussard to Houston Methodist St. John Hospital in Nassau Bay, TX. Forty-year-old Casey Bussard, Bussard’s husband, gave a statement that he was speaking with an associate on his boat the “Sea Note” when he heard a splash. Mr. Bussard and his associate noticed that his wife was nowhere to be seen and then they both entered the water. After five minutes, they located his wife under the boat’s diving platform. Officers arrived as they pulled her from the water and placed her on the dock. Emergency medical personnel on scene stated Officer Anthony Jambrik’s actions were life saving.
Seabrook Inmate Dies, Investigation Pending On Saturday, March 4, 2017, at approximately 6:30 p.m., an inmate in the Seabrook jail was discovered hanging in his cell by Seabrook police officers. Paramedics were called in to attend to the individual, however, he was pronounced dead on the scene. The inmate has been identified as Richard Aycock, a twenty-seven year old, white male from Pearland, TX. Aycock was arrested on
Friday, March 3, 2017 on a weapons charge. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office and the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office were both notified. In addition, the Texas Rangers and the Seabrook Criminal Investigation Division are conducting an investigation into the death. The investigation will determine the cause of death.
On Monday Shoreacres City Council voted 3-2 to reconsider and approve an ordinance regulating the use of golf carts and prohibit the use of carts on public streets or highways with a speed limit greater than 25 miles per hour. Nancy Schnell and Ron Hoskins opposed. This item was previously approved but vetoes by Mayor Kim Sanford. Council took no action on reconsideration and approval of a resolution appointing City Administrator David Stall as parliamentarian. The item was withdrawn. No action was taken re-
garding the ratification of mayor Kim Sanford’s nomination of Phillip Yovino for appointment tot he Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. The item died for lack of a motion. Council voted unanimously to appoint Morgan Jones to Position 1 and Howard Dahl to Position 3 for a term beginning February 28, 2017 and ending January 31, 2019 to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Jaylee Whitaker was appointed to the parks board to Position 7 for a term beginning Febrauary 28, 2017 and ending January 31, 2018.
Shoreacres Moves to Regulate Golf Cart Use
Pictured above are (left to right): Nidia Crespo, Margie Guerra, Mike Cooksley, Beth Brady, Sonia Tamayo, Janie Caballero, Kathy Finch and LaRenda Wallingford. Beth Brady Insurance Agency, Inc. was recently named Agency of the Year for 2016, out of the 140 agents in their district by Farmers District Manager, Michael Nelson. The criteria for the award include reaching the highest level of AAA Status in regards to growth, productivity, customer
experience and customer retention. Beth Brayd Insurance, Inc. is conviniently located at 1013 S. 3rd and Fairmont Parkway in La Porte, and can be reached at 281-471-5433.
Congratulation to the Beth Brady Insurance team!
INDEX Community...........................2 Local/Regional.....................3 Opinion.................................4 On The Water.......................5 Public Notices.....................6 Classifieds...........................7 In The Garden......................8 In The Kitchen.....................8
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THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
LA PORTE
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
COMMUNITY
Parks & Recreation EVENTS
Sunset Sip & Stroll Themes
Extended Sidewalk Saturday- March 18 At Junk Junkies!
Imagine a night out in a quaint little town where everyone feels like a local complete with music, art, wine, children’s activity, outdoor movie, cooking demo and a farmers market and you’ll find yourself at the Sunset Sip & Stroll Farmers Market in La Porte! Enjoy a glass of wine as your peruse local farmers crops for the month, browse artisans creations and stroll through the eclectic shops on Main Street. Facility: Five Points Plaza Dates: March 18, April 23, 2017 Time: 4-9pm Fee: FREE
CULTURAL NEWS AND EVENTS FROM AROUND THE AREA By Richard Tew
Houston’s Irish
Main Street Trade Days
Coming in March 2017! Trade Days in downtown La Porte! Enjoy a day out with friends while browsing antiques, collectibles, repurposed furniture, and artisan vendors! Also enjoy the many eclectic shops and eateries along Main Street! Where: 200 Block of West Main Street Date: Saturday, April 1, May 6 & June 3, 2017 Time: 10am-2pm
Mimosas and Monet
No painting experience needed, for Mimosas and Monet, with our step by step instruction by a different local artist each month held in conjunction with Main Street Trade Days. Grab your friends for day of fun! You are welcome to bring champagne or your favorite beverage of choice. Where: Main Street - Outdoor Venue between Pet Boutique and Tea Room; Contingency Location – Original City Hall Date: Saturday, April 1, May 6 & June 3, 2017 Time: 10am-12pm Age: 21+ Fee: Various Reg deadline: March 27, May 1 & May 29, 2017 by 5pm
Sylvan Beach Triathlon/Duathlon
Triathlon 500m swim; 15 mile bike; 3 mile run; Duathlon 2 mile run; 15 mile bike; 3 mile run. This event is USA Triathlon Sanctioned. Find more detailed information about the Triathlon/Duathlon at: http://www.sylvanbeachtriathlon. com/. You must have a USAT Annual Membership or a One Day Membership ($15) to race. You can obtain a membership when you register for the event online. Facility: Sylvan Beach Park Date: Sunday, June 11, 2017 Time: 7 a.m. Age: 12+ Fee: $80 Triathlon/$70 Duathlon (registration increases as the event nears) Registration Deadline: Online: June 10, 2017
Flicks at Five Points
Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and join us downtown every Friday this summer for an outdoor movie at Five Points on our giant outdoor blow up screen! Showings will be cancelled in the case of inclement weather. Facility: 5 Points Plaza Date: Fridays. Time: 8:30pm. 5/26 - Secret Life of Pets Age: ALL Fee: FREE
2017 River, Lakes, Bays ‘N Bayous Trash Bash Saturday, March 25
It’s time for EXTENDED SIDEWALK SATURDAY at Junk Junkies in conjunction with the Sunset Sip and Stroll Farmer’s Market. Join us this Saturday (and every 3rd Saturday) from 10a - 7p (or maybe later!!). Artists, crafters and the like will display their creations on the sidewalks of Main Street in downtown La Porte. Chris Elliott will be entertaining us with live acoustical music from 4p - 7p. In addition to the artisans, live music and the fabulous shops on Main St, there will be lots of goodies to be had just down the block at the Farmer’s Market from 4p - 9p.
The Safe Area Open House Hosted By St. John’s Episcopal Church
All area veterans, active military, and veteran military families are invited to The Safe Area’s Open House, on Wednesday, March 22, 7:00 to 8:30 pm, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, in La Porte. This support group and this event are sponsored by Gulf Coast Center’s Military Veteran Peer Network and hosted by St. John’s Episcopal Church, La Porte. The Safe Area is an outreach and support group for both active military and all military veterans. The group is facilitated by peers in the company of peers, sponsored by Gulf Coast Center’s MVPN and hosted by St. John’s. Tell those you know whom would benefit from this peer-to-peer, confidential support group. Meetings are every 2nd and 4th Wednesday, in Faith Hall at St. John’s Episcopal Church, located at 815 So. Broadway, in La Porte. For additional information on meetings or the Open House, call Wayne Norton at 281-682-6554 or visit St. John’s website at http://www.stjohns-laporte.org/announcements. St. John’s is a family responding with Christ’s love to the needs of God’s people. To learn more about St. John’s, please visit the website at www.stjohns-laporte.org or call 281-471-0383.
Tew Academy teachers Becca Bryan (left) and Richard Tew (right) on a recent visit to Tew Academy dancer Carter Murphy (center) for her presentation on Ireland at her school. By Richard Tew
March 17 is the day many Irish and those not-so-Irish don their green and partake in local Irish-themed merriment. Houston has a vibrant Irish community complete with its own Irish radio program, “Irish Aires,” heard on 90.1 F.M., KPFT Saturday nights from 6-7 P.M. It has a growing group of traditional Irish musicians and storytellers. There is the annual Houston St. Patrick’s Day Parade, held March 11 at 11 A.M. Houston has its own Gaelic football team, “The Houston Gaels.” It also has traditional Irish dance schools like The Tew Academy of Irish Dance. Full disclaimer,
yes, this is my school. Based out of Clear Lake, and with locations around the area, we teach the ageold tradition of Irish Dance. We have also kept up with more modern trends which have propelled our unique dance form to the big stage with shows like “Riverdance” and “Lord of The Dance.” Among our talented dancers are individuals like Becca Bryan. Bryan both dances and teaches at our school and heads our theater production group. She’s also our first dancer to qualify for the world championships, which are going to be held in Ireland during the month of April. An extremely- talented dancer and teacher, she spends most of her days committed to perfecting her steps, and helping inspire our dancers to become their best. Like our dance school, the Irish community in the greater Houston area is growing and is the best it’s been in a long time. This St. Patrick’s Day, go out and see what our wonderful Irish culture is all about. For information about Irish dance, visit www.tewacademy.org or email rttew@ yahoo.com. To learn more about the Houston Irish community, visit www.irishairesradioshow.org.
Richard Tew is an on-air news and events personality/webmaster for Irish Aires Radio, 90.1 F.M. KPFT. Owner Tew Academy of Irish Dance.
www.BayAreaObserver.com
Trash Bash, the largest single day water-way clean-up event in the State of Texas, held its 23rd consecutive successful event in March 2016, continuing its mission to clean up and promote a healthy Galveston Bay Watershed. The Seabrook event will be held at Bay Elementary and begins at 8 a.m. Activities wrap up by 1:30 p.m. and a hot dog lunch is provided. There will be onsite registration available but if you have a large group you are encouraged to email nstephens@seabrooktx.gov. http://www.trashbash.org/volunteers.html Date:March 25, 2017 Time:8:00 AM - 1:30 PM Bay Elementary 1502 Bayport Blvd Seabrook, TX 77586 Contact: 281-291-5725
Bread of Life Food Pantry At First Baptist Church Bread of Life Food Pantry at First Baptist La Porte located at 310 So. Broadway will have the next distribution day on Saturday, March 25 between 10 am and 2 pm. It will be for RED DOT clients OR new clients only. New clients and returning clients MUST preregister between March 1 and March 22 only. Applications are available at the Food Pantry door beginning March 1. Office phone is 281-471-0338.
PET OF THE WEEK
A New Dawn Pet Adoption 202 W. San Augustine, Deer Park.
Observer The Bay Area
Rebecca Collins Editor & Publisher
Carolyn Collins Associate Editor
HEIDI
My name is Heidi and I’m a sleepy-eyed, soft, cuddly yet shy little girl, who would just love to be a part of your family. I will always be your baby, even though I am almost 1 ½ year old. You can see how beautiful my black and white fur is, and you will enjoy stroking it while I sit on your lap. I am spayed, current on all vaccinations, and micro-chipped, ready to go home to my new house. A New Dawn Pet Adoption, 202 W. San Augustine.
Richard Tew Cultural Columnist
Mike Shannahan Contributing Columnist
Phone: 281-907-3140 Fax: 866-596-8973
www.bayareaobserver.com editor@bayareaobserver.com
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER Vol. 8, Issue 11, MARCH 16, 2017 is published weekly for $30 per year by The Bay Area Observer., P.O. Box 82, La Porte, Texas 77572 Periodicals Postage Permit USPS 11650 at La Porte, TX., and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE BAY AREA OBSERVER, P.O. Box 82, La Porte, Texas 77572. Letters to the Editor policy: The Bay Area Observer welcomes letters from citizens. The editor reserves the right to reject letters or edit for clarity, brevity, good taste and accuracy, and to prevent libel. No poetry, lists, attacks on private individuals, or letter-writing campaigns, please. Please include a phone number where you can be reached during the day. For mailed or fax submissions, you must sign the letter. Views expressed by individual letter writers are not neccessarily the views of the Bay Area Observer or staff.
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 3
LOCAL/REGIONAL
LPPD Celebrates Veteran Employee Accomplishments And Welcomes In New Staff Members
Sergeant Bennie Boles Receives the Chiefs Letter of Commendation
Chief’s Citizen’s Certificate of Merit being presented to La Porte resident John Gianukos
In step with the agency’s tradition of affirmative employee recognition, La Porte Police Department hosted an employee accomplishment and recognition ceremony on the afternoon of March 10th. During the event, LPPD’s Chief Ken Adcox welcomed several new employees who recently joined the police family over the last 6 months. Additionally, several veteran members of the department were recognized for their outstanding contributions during the third and fourth quarter of 2016. New members formally welcomed and sworn-in included Officer Christopher Cargile, Reserve Officer Sergio Torre, and Reserve Officer Zachary Dan-
Chief Adcox Welcomes New Jailer Carley Lee
Officer Kevin Winebrenner Receive Chiefs Letter of Commendation
Officer Chad Burnett, Officer Jeffrey Henson, Officer Rene Hernandez Receive Chiefs Letter of Commendation
iels. New Jailer Carley Lee was welcomed and recognized as well. Dispatcher and Telecommunications Specialist Stacey Lippold was commended for her recent selection as Employee of the 3rd Quarter 2016, and one of the department’s lead Street Crimes Detectives was for honored as Employee of the 4th Quarter 2016. Supporting accolades included the Chief ’s Citizen’s Certificate of Merit being presented to La Porte resident John Gianukos for his recent aid and intervention during a boyfriend’s brutal assault of his girlfriend at a local La Porte business. Receiving the Chiefs Letter of Commendation were Sergeant Bennie Boles, Officer Joshua Willhoite, Officer
Domingo Gutierrez, Officer Jeff Plemons, Officer Chad Burnett, Officer Jeffrey Henson, Officer Rene Hernandez, Officer Kyle Jones, Officer Danny Walters, Officer Samuel Bianchino, Officer Kevin Winebrenner, Detective Matthew Davidson, Officer Tracy Pedre, Officer Yvonne Stanley, Officer Anthony Bish, and Sergeant Kai Patrick. Additional recognitions included Officer Robyn Gallion receiving the Medal of Merit, along with Officer Justin Weaver and Sergeant Bennie Boles being presented with the department’s coveted Lifesaving Award in recognition of their recent courageous actions in talking a suicidal person threatening to jump off the Fred Har-
Officer Yvonne Stanley, Officer Anthony Bish Receive Chiefs Letter of Commendation
Chief Adcox Swears In Reserve Officer Zachary Daniels, Officer Christopher Cargile, Reserve Officer Sergio Torre.
man Bridge back over the rail. La Porte Police Department’s commitment to both its new and existing members, as well as its ongoing dedication to providing a high level of service for the La Porte community, remains unmistakably evident. The department believes that service manifests itself through the hiring of the best people available and then by outfitting those people with proper training, equipment, support, and guidance. The final step is to recognize employees for their extraordinary efforts, and highlight their value. Area residents are encouraged to join the police department by taking the time to congratulate the listed employees.
Officer Robyn Gallion received the Medal of Merit
Period Restoration of A Vintage House A Whole Different Ballgame
Foundation, structural, and roof upgrades are at the epicenter of a successful restoration project. By Mike Shannahan
We come from all walks of life: male or female, 20 somethings or those wondering where the years went, married, single or in between, urban or rural dwelling. Mortgage bankers are skeptical of us, insurance companies want us to mend our ways, and building officials wish we’d just quietly go away. Ours is a world of double hung windows with wavy glass, plank flooring, bead board wainscoting, tall baseboards, working shutters, and keyholes that you really can peek through. Our binding tie is a preference for old house living. Period restoration of a vintage house is a whole different ballgame than garden variety remodeling or new construction. I’ll be the first to say that it is not for everyone, but anyone who puts their mind to it can pull it off. I can only speculate that it is a cottage industry across the country today because of a growing number of homeowners who appreciate the value of preservation and maintaining links to our past. Professionally, old house projects are my walking away favorite jobs. The quality of workmanship in joinery and materials on even the most modest of dwellings are at once pleasing to the eye and utilitarian. Replicating it is
an enjoyable and rewarding challenge. If you’ve ever given any thought to a restoration project, I’ll absolutely encourage you to go for it. Once the decision is made, a little bit of planning will go a long ways towards maintaining forward motion and sanity. Typically, I advise against hiring a designer or architect, encouraging customers to make their own decisions about how they want things to look. An obvious benefit to this approach is the substantial monetary savings that can be realized and put to more lasting use on tangibles. Lining up a team of qualified workers and tradesmen is critical to success. There is a world of difference in construction methods used today and 75 or 100 years ago. Integrating modern mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems into an old house is equal parts art and science that can go south in a hurry if improperly executed. The only way to ascertain if a tradesman has the expertise to work on your project is to do some leg work. Investigate their track record and follow up on referrals. Unfortunately, I’ve seen owners incur high octane cost overruns as a result of hatchet jobs done by incompetent workers. The “we’ll beat any price” guys are probably not the best fit to do cosmetic surgery on an 85 year old Sleeping
Beauty. Long before the first nail is driven, progression and scheduling of all work has to be mapped out with full input from all trades. It’s the only way to ensure that all bases are covered with structural issues, access for maintenance and repair of mechanical systems, emergency egress and aesthetics. Getting off on the right foot is the best way to keep a dream from becoming a nightmare. Keep in mind that drop dead timelines and hard money quotes are almost impossible in this type of work. No two projects will proceed at the same rate or in the same way, but a good general pathway goes from upstairs to down, and from interior, limited access rooms to more travelled areas. Make plans while exploring all options, but start on nothing until all foundation upgrades are complete, roof repairs or replacement is finished, and structural changes made. Then let the fun begin in earnest. I’ll try to do some follow up on what comes next in another column. Till then, take advantage of our nice spring weather with a long bike ride through some of the older neighborhoods of the bay area and check out the numerous well restored old houses that have been given a new lease on life by their current owners.
Mike Shannahan is a carpenter with over 40 years’ experience who values your input on topics covered in his column. Contact him at 281-470-6229, email him at notasuit1953@gmail.com or visit his shop at 201 San Jacinto, La Porte.
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THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
OPINION
Texas Must Act Now To Repair Damage To Public Information Act
By Kelley Shannon Executive Director Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas
We Texans are fortunate when it comes to access to government information. Correction. We were fortunate. For more than 40 years, Texas’ open records law was one of the nation’s strongest. The Texas Public Information Act, originating during a time of scandal in the early 1970s, presumes all government records are available to citizens, unless there’s a specific exception preventing release of the document. But our modern era of openness shifted dramatically with two state Supreme Court decisions in 2015 known as the Boeing ruling and the Greater Houston Partnership ruling. Both put many government financial records off limits to citizens. If the damage isn’t repaired in this legislative session, Texas will be way back in the pack compared with other states’ transparency laws. Details on the spending of many millions of dollars in taxpayer money will be secret. Sadly, the message to citizens will be: “Don’t bother asking. It’s none of your business.” As we embark on Sunshine Week, March 12-18, let’s commit to maintaining Texas’ national standing
as a leading right-to-know state. The free flow of accurate information has always been important. It’s especially so in this time of misinformation and fake news. The so-called Boeing ruling allows all sorts of contracts the government holds with private businesses to be sealed from public view. The government or the private entity simply must claim a record’s release would lead to a competitive disadvantage - not a decisive disadvantage, buy any disadvantage. Do you want to see your school district’s bus or food service contracts so that you know whether your taxpayer money is being well spent? Good luck. Already, some of those basic documents have been ruled unobtainable. The same has happened to requestors seeking taxi and ride-sharing company filings with the government. Small business owners who want to view the winning contracts awarded by a local community college also have been thwarted. In one of the most unbelievable examples, the city of McAllen refused to reveal how much taxpayer money it paid entertainer Enrique Iglesias to perform in a city holiday festival. The Attorney General’s Office, citing the Boeing court ruling, agreed to the withholding. The state office has made hundreds of similar closed records decisions because of the Boeing case. The Greater Houston Partnership decision prevents the public from viewing the financial books of non-profits that are supported by taxpayer money and act in a government agency fashion. Often, economic development activities are farmed out to these types of non-profits, as they were to GHP. To prevent corruption and hold these agencies accountable, public oversight of how they
spend money is necessary through the Texas Public Information Act. Sen. Kirk Watson, DAustin, and Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, R-Southlake, are working together on the bipartisan issue of protecting the public’s right to know and each have filed bills to reconstruct what the Texas Supreme Court dismantled. Senate Bill 407 and House Bill 792 address the Boeing decision, while Senate Bill 408 and House Bill 793 address the Greater Houston Partnership ruling. The Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas and other open government advocates are pressing for additional transparency measures in the Legislature. One attempts to improve access to public records stored in private email accounts and on private electronic devices. Another seeks to resume access to dates of birth in certain public records, including crime documents and election filings, which fosters accuracy and informs the public. House Bill 2670 and House Bill 2710, respectively, address these two big issues. Rep. Todd Hunter, R-Corpus Christi, authored the bills. Meanwhile, open government supporters are working to block bills that hinder citizen access to government information. Many secrecy bills are filed every legislative session. The clock is ticking on the time we have to preserve openness in Texas. The current Legislature meets until May 29. We should all urge state lawmakers to let the sunshine in as they do the people’s work. Kelley Shannon is executive director of the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas, a non-profit promoting open government laws and the First Amendment rights of free speech and press.
Congressman Green Statement on Republicans’ Plan to Repeal and Replace Affordable Care Act
A Challenge for Bay Area Cities:
Save Water
By Bob Stokes and Paula Paciorek Close to the Gulf of Mexico and drained by a series of bayous that flow into Galveston Bay, the Houston region is intimately familiar with water. Perhaps a little too intimately - we are gaining a reputation as “America’s flood capital” thanks to the torrential rain events that routinely shut down highways and streets and inundate hundreds, if not thousands, of homes. The Houston area receives almost 50 inches of rain per year – a total that leaves many dry-land Texans feeling a bit envious. However, you’d never know we had such an abundance of water when you look at how much we use on our landscapes and yards. While the percentage of water we use on our landscapes is less than cities in drier parts of the state, Houston water customers alone use 5 billion gallons of water per year for outdoor purposes. Despite our bounty of water, the time has come to get serious about conservation. Why wait for another drought to protect our most precious resource? To help with water conservation at the local level, The Galveston Bay Foundation has created the Water Wise Bay Cities Challenge, a friendly water conservation competition for 20 Bay area cities and their residents. Area residents now have the chance to take a water conservation pledge on behalf of their cities. The Challenge is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for residents to not only help conserve our future water supplies, but also help preserve the health of Galveston Bay. Residents have until May 10 to make their conservation pledges at www.gbwb. org. Winning cities and residents will be announced at Galveston Bay Foundation’s Bay Day Festival on May 13 at the Kemah Boardwalk in Kemah, Texas. This effort stems from the fact that historically, much of our region has depended on groundwater that is pumped from wells – groundwater overuse contributes to land subsidence, which leaves us even more vulnerable to flooding and tropical storms. Effectively, many of our communities and neighborhoods have been sinking into a subsidence “bowl”, with some parts of the region having lost as much as 12 feet in elevation. When Houston residents consider the billions of dollars spent repairing cracked sidewalks, they might get a sinking feeling too. To alleviate this problem, water utilities throughout the area have been gradually
working to transition the source of water supplies from groundwater to surface water. This means that more and more freshwater will be diverted from the San Jacinto and Trinity rivers – the two main rivers that flow into Galveston Bay. As a result, the Bay will gradually receive less of the freshwater it needs to maintain its productivity. To prevent this, we need to conserve our water resources now so that we can ensure that there will be enough to go around in the future. Conserving water can also help guarantee that the oysters, fish and other wildlife that call the Bay home will thrive. Using less water will help to dilute pollution and ensure that Galveston Bay remains one of the most productive bay-systems in the world. More than 75 percent of the fish and shellfish desired by sports fishermen and commercial fishing operations alike depend on a healthy mix of both freshwater and salt water to survive. Let’s help the Bay stay healthy and productive for many generations to come. Every pledge counts! Visit www.gbwb.org to pledge for your Bay and get entered in a drawing to win a prize. Bob Stokes is a 1990 graduate of Yale University and a 1994 graduate of the University of Texas School of Law. After practicing law for ten years, Bob joined the Galveston Bay Foundation as President in June, 2004. Bob had served on the board of the Foundation for five years prior to taking over as President and had served as the board’s chair for the previous two years. Bob has also served on the Houston Wilderness Board of Directors since 2004 and on the Governing Board of Earth Share of Texas beginning in 2007. Paula Paciorek works on the Texas Living Waters Project, which encourages Houston-Galveston area citizens, organizations, businesses and local governments to reduce their use of fresh water and dedicate offset flows to the Bay. She received a B.S. in Psychology and a M.S. in Applied Geography with a concentration in transboundary groundwater policy and governance from the University of Louisville in 2010 and 2014, respectively. Prior to working at GBF, Paula worked as the Water Conservation Program Coordinator for The Woodlands Township where she oversaw and developed the Water Conservation Program. Paula’s research focuses on water resources and is informed by theory analysis on humanenvironment relations and the politics of the environment.
VIEWPOINTS
Calls for a 30-Day Public Comment Period
HOUSTON, TX - Congressman Gene Green, member of the Energy & Commerce Committee and Ranking Member of the Health Subcommittee, released the following statement after Congressional Republicans proposed a bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA): “I am deeply disappointed that my colleagues are moving forward with their plan to undo the historic progress we’ve made in expanding health coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by entirely repealing it and leaving many millions of Americans who gained coverage without a way to maintain it,” said Green. “Since the ACA, the quality of health care has improved for every hard working American, but under Re-
publicans’ repeal plan more Americans will be forced to pay more for less care. Medicaid expansion will be cut, families struggling to get ahead will receive less financial assistance, and the clock will severely roll back to a time when millions of Americans didn’t have health insurance before the ACA was law.” “The bill that was introduced this evening was secretly drafted and introduced less than two days before the committee markup. Americans deserve better. When the House Democrats held the majority in 2009, former Congressman Henry Waxman, Chair of the Energy & Commerce committee during the ACA debates, was transparent with the American people and held multiple hearings. Repub-
Congressman Gene Green (D) represents the Houston-area 29th Congressional District and is ranking member of the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee.
licans should follow precedent and hold a 30-day public comment period instead of sitting on their hands.
Babin Applauds President Trump’s Updated Executive Order on Immigration WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (RTX), who has been pushing legislation since 2015 to pause the UN-led refugee resettlement program, issued the following statement today applauding President Trump’s updated executive order to prevent foreign terrorists from entering the United States: “As someone who has been pushing for a suspension of refugees from terrorist hotspots for over a year and a half, I commend the President and his Administration for issuing a new executive order that further enhances Amer-
ica’s national security. This updated executive order will help prevent terrorists from entering the United States while leading to a stronger vetting system. It also closes potential loopholes so that it may not be manipulated by activist federal judges. As elected officials, we have no higher duty than to ensure the safety and security of the American people. I applaud the President for making America’s safety a top priority as we cannot allow our refugee and immigration programs to serve as a ‘Trojan Horse’ threat to the American people.”
Representative Brian Babin (R) serves the 36th Congressional District of Texas – which includes the counties of Chambers, Liberty, Hardin, Polk, Tyler, Jasper, Newton, Orange, and portions of southeastern Harris County.
Letters to the Editor policy: The Bay Area Observer welcomes letters from citizens. The editor reserves the right to reject letters or edit for clarity, brevity, good taste and accuracy, and to prevent libel. No poetry, lists, attacks on private individuals, or letter-writing campaigns, please. Please include a phone number where you can be reached during the day. For mailed or fax submissions, you must sign the letter. Views expressed by individual contributors are not neccessarily the views of the Bay Area Observer or staff.
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 5
ON THE WATER
Calling all Women Sailors:
Windward Bound Sailing Camp May 31-June 3 at HYC
North Sabine
Trout are fair to good on the Louisiana shoreline on topwaters and Corkies and in the river on shad. Flounder are fair on jigs tipped with shrimp around marsh drains.
South Sabine
Sheepshead and black drum are good at the jetty on live shrimp. Trout are fair to good around Lighthouse Cove on topwaters. Redfish are good around pods of shad.
Bolivar
Trout are fair to good on the south shoreline on soft plastics and plugs. Black drum and redfish are good at Rollover Pass.
Trinity Bay
Trout are fair for drifters working pods of shad and mullet on MirrOlures and Corkies. Waders have taken better trout on the shell along the east shoreline. Redfish are fair to good on shad at the spillway.
East Galveston Bay
Trout are good on the south shoreline on MirrOlures and She Dogs. Whiting and sand trout are good on the edge of the Intracoastal on fresh shrimp. Black drum are fair to good in the Ship Channel on crabs.
West Galveston Bay
Trout are fair to good for drifters working shell on live shrimp. Sheepshead, redfish and black drum are good at the jetty on shrimp and crabs.
Texas City
Trout are fair on reefs on live bait. Redfish are good in Moses Lake on shrimp and crabs. Black drum are good in the channel on crabs.
Freeport
Sand trout and sheepshead are good on live shrimp on the reefs. Black drum are good at the jetties on cracked blue crabs.
East Matagorda Bay
Trout are fair for drifters on live shrimp over humps and scattered shell. Redfish are fair to good on the edge of the Intracoastal on crabs and mullet.
West Matagorda Bay
Redfish are fair to good on the edge of Oyster Lake on shrimp and crabs. Trout are fair on shell and grass on soft plastics and live shrimp. Black drum are fair to good at the jetty on crabs.
Port O’connor
Trout and redfish are good on topwaters over grass in waist–deep water in San Antonio Bay. Trout and redfish are fair for drifters working the back lakes with live shrimp.
Scenes from the 2016 Windward Bound Sailing Camp. Photo by Ed Matuszak The Houston Yacht Club’s Women’s Sailing Association is now accepting applications for their 2017 Windward Bound Sailing Camp for Women. The Windward Bound Sailing Camp for Women is May 31-June 3 at the Houston Yacht Club. The overnight camp is open to all women who are 21 years or older. Windward Bound Sailing Camp is a great opportunity to learn, expand and enhance your knowledge and skills in sailing, according to Anne Lee, HYC member and sailing counselor. “Windward Bound Sailing Camp is the only program of its kind on the bay,” said Lee. “It is all about women teaching women how to sail in a fun, friendly and safe environment. The camp will help you gain new confidence, new skills and new friends.” The camp is for those new to sailing, those who are familiar with the sport but want to expand their knowledge and skills and for the experienced sailor who wants to race competitively. The camp format is residential, experiential, concentrated and objective-oriented and features small group instruction with individualized attention. The counselors are accomplished women sailors with years of experience in cruising, racing and teaching other women to sail. The camp is broken down into three categories to include:
Force I — Introductory: Beginning sailors learn practical skills to improve self-confidence and enable them to crew on a daysailer and single-hand a Sunfish. Force II — Intermediate: Sailors with basic skills expand skills and knowledge to enable them to skipper as well as crew on daysailers and Sunfish. Force III — Advanced: Experienced women sailors hone their skills for cruising and racing. Camp Registration Open to HYC members and non-members but numbers are limited and HYC members receive preference. Registration deadline is April 5. Camp Costs The cost for camp is $500 for HYC members and $650 for non-HYC members. Camp costs cover room and board, camp shirt, instruction and boat usage. Experience the freedom and camaraderie of sailing. The sport of sailing is for all ages and it is a sport for leisure or competition. For more information, contact Anne Banks at anneabanks@sbcglobal.net To download the Windward Bound Camp application, please visit us online at http://houstonyachtclub.com/ OnTheWater/Education/WindwardBound.aspx
Houston Yacht Club Sailors Excel
Rockport
Trout are fair to good in Morris–Cummings Cut on free–lined shrimp. Black drum are good in the Lydia Ann Channel on crabs. Trout are fair over grass while drifting with live shrimp.
Port Aransas
Redfish are fair to good at East Flats on shrimp. Black drum are good in the Shrimpboat Channel on crabs and finger mullet. Redfish and sheepshead are fair to good at the jetty on shrimp.
Corpus Christi
Trout are fair to good on the edge of the spoils on Gulps and live shrimp. Black drum are good in the Humble Channel at night on crabs and table shrimp.
Baffin Bay
Trout are good in grass and rocks on Corkies and topwaters. Black drum are good in the Land Cut on crabs. Trout are fair to good in the Land Cut on live shrimp.
Port Mansfield
Left – Colin Heimenser, Vice Commodore Clearwater YC; Charlotte Rose, HYC; Phil Beauchamp, Rear Commodore Clearwater YC; and David Billing, Principal Race Officer (PRO).
South Padre
Houston Yacht Club local Sailor Charlotte Rose excelled at the Laser Midwinters Regatta 2017, held in Clearwater Florida. Out of a 102 entrants Charlotte finished 2nd after 4 days of intense racing in the Laser Radial fleet, finishing ahead of sailors from Canada and South American as well as all over the USA. This is a very important regatta for Charlotte for a number of reasons mainly as this was part 1 of a 2-part qualifier to represent USA at the ISAF Youth Worlds later this year in Sanya, China, secondly this placing should hopefully see her break into the top 100 women’s world rankings. This is the second time in the last 4 months that Charlotte has been to Florida and come back with silverware. Charlotte started sailing at a HYC overnight camp back in 2009, since then she has been hooked on the sport and has certainly excelled since moving into the Laser Radial. Charlotte can be found most weekends on the water at HYC, either practicing or coaching other sailors and not just the younger ones. This opportunity would not have been possible were it not for the support of Houston Yacht Club and, specifically, the Ragnot youth program and the Women’s Sailing Association. America’s Cup Event Authority along with Red Bull Sports Directors, Roman Hagara and Hans-Peter Steinacher, announced recently
Trout are fair to good on topwaters around sand and grass. Redfish are fair to good while drifting pot holes. Trout are good around the spoil islands, channel edges and color changes on DOA Shrimp and Gulps under popping corks. Black drum, redfish and sheepshead are good at the jetty on shrimp.
Port Isabel
Trout are fair to good around bars and guts on live shrimp. Trout and redfish are fair to good at Gas Well Flats on live shrimp. Redfish are fair at Three Island on small topwaters and soft plastics under rattling corks.
that Next Generation USA would be the team representing the United States of America at the Red Bull Youth America’s Cup event in Bermuda in June. The team is made up of six sailors, ages 20 to 24, with many different sailing backgrounds
sion. Scott Ewing, soft sail trimmer, is a multi-talented skiff and multihull sailor and Preston Farrow brings experience on the GC32 and knowledge of the Bermuda venue to the team. “On this boat, the name of the game is teamwork. Communication, co-operation and confidence in our abilities will be our strengths, “ says Crain. Next Generation USA has a full schedule of training for the next five months leading up to the Youth America’s Cup. Their coach, Iker Martinez, a multiple world champion and Olympic medalist, adds, “These guys are willing to put in the hard work to get to the top. They recognize that success at this event requires more than just sailing ability.” The 2017 Youth America’s Cup is held in conjunction with the 35th America’s Cup and will take place June 12-21 in Bermuda During the America’s Cup event. Sailors will compete on the
Houston Yacht Club Member Reed Baldridge (pictured 2nd from right) and Carson Crain (TCYC: pictured right) and their team, Next Generation USA, will be on the starting line at the Red Bull Youth America’s Cup event in Bermuda this summer. Next Generation USA, a team of 6 sailors ages 20-24 years, was selected by Red Bull Sports Directors to represent the United States in field of 12 competing countries. Reed and Carson have grown up sailing together on the Gulf Coast since they were in Optis.
and experiences. Helmsman Carson Crain and wing-trimmer Matthew Whitehead, a veteran from 2013 Youth America’s Cup, are fresh off Olympic campaigns in the Men’s RS:X windsurfer and Macra 17 multihull. Tactician, HYC’s Reed Baldridge and bowman Markus Edegran have recently completed successful college sailing careers and are pursuing sailing as a profes-
AC45F boats used Pin the Louis Vuitton World Series events around the world, including racing in New York Harbor and Chicago in 2016. All teams will take part in a qualifying series and the top eight teams will compete in the finals, June 20-21. For more information: http:// red-bull-youth.americascup. com; http://nextgenerationusa.org
PAGE 6
PUBLIC NOTICES THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
To Place Legal and Public Notices: Email editor@bayareaobserver.com or Call 281-907-3140
City of La Porte Request for Qualifications: The City of La Porte is soliciting qualifications from firms who are interested and qualified for professional engineering services for the Lomax Area Lift Station Consolidation. Qualifications will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. Central Standard Time, on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at City Hall, Office of the Purchasing Manager, located at 604 W. Fairmont Pkwy., La Porte, TX 77571. For information to register and to receive a packet, visit: www.publicpurchase. com. For questions, contact purchasing@laportetx.gov.
CITY OF SEABROOK
ORDINANCE NO. 2017-09 AMENDMENT TO THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP TO REZONE 1.100 ACRES OF LAND SITUATED NORTH OF NASA PARKWAY, WEST OF REPSDORPH ROAD AND IS ADJACENT TO THE CITY OF SEABROOK CITY LIMITS FROM C-2 (COMMERCIAL-MEDIUM) TO R-3 (RESIDENTIAL-MEDIUM DENSITY) – PELICAN REEF APARTMENTS This ordinance is hereby incorporated and made a part of the Seabrook City Code. Violation of this Ordinance is subject to the penalty section of said Code including, Section 11.06, “Criminal Enforcement” which provides that any person who shall violate any provision of this Ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined in an amount not to exceed $2,000.00. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense. PASSED AND APPROVED on first reading with a quorum present, by an affirmative vote of a majority of Councilmembers present, in accordance with Seabrook City Charter Section 2.10 on this 21st day of February, 2017. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED on final reading with a quorum present, by an affirmative vote of a majority of Councilmembers present, in accordance with Seabrook City Charter Section 2.10 on this 7th day of March, 2017.
CITY OF SEABROOK
ORDINANCE NO. 2017-10 UPDATING AND AMENDING THE SIGN STANDARDS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF THE CITY OF SEABROOK APPENDIX A, COMPREHENSIVE ZONING, ARTICLE 6, “SIGN STANDARDS”, SECTION 6.04 “EXEMPT SIGNS”, BY AMENDING SUBSECTION 6.04.02 (B) “OTHER ONPREMISES REAL ESTATE SIGNS”; PROVIDING A PENALTY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $2000 FOR VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF BY INCLUSION INTO THE CODE; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT OR IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance is hereby incorporated and made a part of the Seabrook City Code. Violation of this ordinance is subject to the penalty section of said Code and Ordinance, Section 1-15 “General Penalty and 11.06, “Criminal Enforcement” which provides that any person who shall violate any provision of this Ordinance shall be deemed guilty of an offense and, upon conviction, shall be fined in an amount not to exceed $2,000.00. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense. PASSED AND APPROVED on first reading with a quorum present, by an affirmative vote of a majority of Councilmembers present, in accordance with Seabrook City Charter Section 2.10 on this 21st day of February, 2017. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED on final reading with a quorum present, by an affirmative vote of a majority of Councilmembers present, in accordance with Seabrook City Charter Section 2.10 on this 7th day of March, 2017.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
SEABROOK CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017 – 7:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEABROOK WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017 AT 7:00 P.M. IN SEABROOK CITY HALL, 1700 FIRST STREET, SEABROOK, TEXAS, COUNCIL CHAMBERS TO DISCUSS THE AGENDA ITEMS LISTED BELOW. THIS HEARING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND EVERYONE ATTENDING WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK FOR OR AGAINST THESE REQUESTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROCEDURES OF THE CITY COUNCIL. ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS REGARDING THESE REQUESTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW AT CITY HALL IN THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT WEEKDAYS FROM 8:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. PLEASE CALL (281) 291-5600 IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS. SPECIFIC PUBLIC HEARINGS Proposed text changes to Appendix A, “Comprehensive Zoning,” Article 8 “Nonconformance” to address potential updates and clarification of regulations pertaining to nonconforming structures/uses.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
SEABROOK CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017 – 7:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE SEABROOK CITY COUNCIL WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017 AT 7:00 P.M. IN SEABROOK CITY HALL, 1700 FIRST STREET, SEABROOK, TEXAS, COUNCIL CHAMBERS TO DISCUSS THE AGENDA ITEM(S) LISTED BELOW. THIS HEARING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND EVERYONE ATTENDING WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK FOR OR AGAINST THESE REQUESTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROCEDURES OF THE CITY COUNCIL. ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS REGARDING THESE REQUESTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW AT CITY HALL IN THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT WEEKDAYS FROM 8:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. PLEASE CALL (281) 291-5600 IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS. SPECIFIC PUBLIC HEARINGS 1.
Request to change the street name of Lidstone Street to Lakewood Yacht Club Drive for the entire street length from NASA Parkway to Lakewood Pointe.
Notice of Project of the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation Relating to the redevelopment of “Old Seabrook” NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation (“SEDC”) intends to undertake a project for economic development to provide funding through SEDC sales tax revenue to assist the redevelopment of “Old Seabrook” as found by the board of directors necessary to promote or develop new or expanded business enterprises and/or that create or retain primary jobs in or near the City of Seabrook, including but not limited to: targeted infrastructure (streets, transportation, utilities, drainage, site and related improvements); acquisition of land, buildings, equipment, and facilities; demolition of aging or substandard buildings to improve the quality of commercial zones; general municipally owned improvements, parking facilities; or any other expenditures consistent with the purposes and duties as a Type B corporation, in an amount not to exceed $750,000.00. Payment of such expenditures is authorized for Projects under Texas Local Government Code, Sections 505.101, 501.103, 505.152, 505.155, 505.158, and 505.302. The purpose of the expenditure is for promoting/developing new and expanded business enterprises and for the creation or retention of primary jobs in or near the City of Seabrook. Pursuant to Texas Local Government Code section 505.159, the SEDC shall hold a public hearing for the Project on April 13, 2017, at 7:00 p.m. at Seabrook City Hall, 1700 First Street, Seabrook, Texas Pursuant to Texas Local Government Code Section 505.160, and 505.302, proceeds of the sales tax imposed under Chapter 505 may be used to pay the costs of projects of the types added to the definition of “project” by Subchapter D, unless, not later than the 60th day after the date of this notice, the City Council of the City of Seabrook receives a petition signed by more than 10 percent of the registered voters of the municipality requesting that an election be held before tax proceeds may be used to promote new or expanded business development.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TO ALL HOLDERS OF AUTO WRECKER PERMITS AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS Notice is hereby given that the La Porte Wrecker Committee will conduct a public hearing at 3:00 p.m. on the 28th day of March, 2017, in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas. The purpose of this hearing is to receive public input on a request by Industrial Transportation & Towing LLC for an emergency auto wrecker permit. Following the public hearing, the Wrecker Committee will consider approval or other action regarding an emergency auto wrecker permit for Industrial Transportation & Towing LLC and conduct other matters pertaining to the Committee. Citizens wishing to address the Committee pro or con during the public hearing are required to sign in before the meeting is convened. CITY OF LA PORTE Patrice Fogarty, City Secretary A quorum of City Council members may be present and participate in discussions during this meeting; however, no action will be taken by Council. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of La Porte will provide for reasonable accommodations for persons attending public meetings. To better serve attendees, requests should be received 24 hours prior to the meetings. Please contact Patrice Fogarty, City Secretary, at 281.470.5019.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
SEABROOK PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017 – 7:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SEABROOK WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 2017 AT 7:00 P.M. IN SEABROOK CITY HALL, 1700 FIRST STREET, SEABROOK, TEXAS, COUNCIL CHAMBERS TO DISCUSS THE AGENDA ITEMS LISTED BELOW. THIS HEARING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND EVERYONE ATTENDING WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEAK FOR OR AGAINST THESE REQUESTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROCEDURES OF THE COMMISSION. ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS REGARDING THESE REQUESTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW AT CITY HALL IN THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT WEEKDAYS FROM 8:00 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M. PLEASE CALL (281) 291-5760 IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS. SPECIFIC PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. Request for amendments to the Old Seabrook Village Planned Unit Development (PUD). Applicant/Owner: OSVillage, LLC, 2510 De Four Trace, Seabrook, Texas 77586 Legal Description: Lots 1-7, Block 1 and Lots 1-7, Block 2 in the Baybrook Subdivision, Section 1 and Tract 1, 2, and 3. Being 13.81 acres of land, situated in Abstract 52, of Ritson Morris Survey, in Harris County, Texas. This property is located immediately east of Meyer and north of 1st Street. The property is located in the R-2 (Single Family Detached – Small Lot) and OS (Old Seabrook) zoning districts.
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 7
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City of Morgan’s Point Police Department is currently accepting applications for a full-time police officer position. Qualified applicants must be TCOLE certified, currently hold a Basic Peace Officer Certification, and have a minimum of three (3) years patrol experience. Applicants are subject to pre-employment screening and testing to include, but not limited to, a physical exam, drug screening and thorough background investigation. Salary starts at $45, 795 for the first year and increases yearly per salary schedule. Other benefits and incentives are offered to include 2:1 TMRS. Applications should be submitted to the City of Morgan’s Point Police Department. Applications can be obtained online at www.morganspointtx.com, or in person at 1415 E. Main, Morgan’s Point, TX. 77571. Applications will be accepted by mail, in person, by fax and e-mail, until filled. If there are any questions, please call 281-471-2171 or e-mail Sgt. Richardson at brichardson@morganspoint-tx.com.
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THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, MARCH 16, 2017
IN THE GARDEN Growing Ginger Planting Chart For March In Your Garden
Fresh or dried, the thick, gnarled roots of ginger (Zingiber officinale) have been a key flavoring ingredient for centuries. Marco Polo was supposed to have discovered it in China in the 13th century. But evidence has shown that the builders of the pyramids ate unleavened sweet ginger cakes. In the Dark Ages monks grew it in the monastery gardens. English royalty considered it worth its weight in gold. The Chinese used candied ginger as an aid to
garden. To avoid root rot, water sparingly until growth develops. After your ginger has established itself well in the container, transplant it to a shady, raised bed in your garden or landscape. When the weather begins to get hot, mist the ginger to maintain humidity. Fertilize regularly with fish emulsion. . Ginger is a perennial and can get 3 to 5 feet high and spreads by long knobby underground rhizomes. After a year, when the ginger is well established, dig up the roots from the young sprouts. Younger roots are more flavorful than the older ones. Roots will keep in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. You can dry the roots, grind them and keep the ground ginger in jars. Wrap the ginger roots in plastic and they will store well in the freezer. Fresh ginger can be used in any recipe that calls for dried but you will only need to use half as much. Ginger can be used in stir fry, meat and fish dishes, or cookies and breads. Ginger tea can boost your metabolism and help sooth a headache. It is a very versatile as well as beautiful addition to your garden.
digestion. If you want to grow it in your garden, just buy fresh roots (called hands) at your local market. You can either plant the entire “hand” or cut it into pieces. Allow the pieces to dry or callus overnight. Choose a large container about 12 inches deep and fill it with moist, rich soil. Make sure the container will drain well. Set the root just below the surface of the soil. In our area, it grows best in a shady to semi-shady area of your
Beans – bush Beans – pole Cabbage – transplants Collards Corn Cucumber Eggplants – transplants
Kohlrabi Lettuce Peas – southern Peppers – transplants Squash – summer Tomato – transplants Turnip
Galveston County Master Gardener Events E-mail galvcountymgs@gmail.com to pre-register
TURNING DIRT INTO SOIL Saturday, March 25, 2017 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Galveston County Master Gardener Jim Gilliam will explain the difference between dirt and soil, soil structure and characteristics, pH, nutrients, sources and strategies for soil amendment, soil testing and cultural practices. He will emphasize how to improve your existing soil.
IN THE KITCHEN Guinness Chocolate Cake
The bitter coffee-like flavor of Guinness stout blends with the dark chocolate to produce an ultra moist, slightly cake. Serve a slice with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream and, of course, a pint of Guinness on St. Patrick’s Day.
Ingredients 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup natural (not Dutch-processed) cocoa powder 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 sticks plus 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 2 1/4 cups firmly packed light brown sugar 3 large eggs 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups Guinness stout (do not include foam when measuring) 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans Confectioner’s sugar for dusting or cream cheese frosting for icing.
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1. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease the bottom and sides of a 9-by-3-inch round cake pan or springform pan. Dust the pan with flour. 2. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon into a medium bowl. Whisk to combine, and set aside. 3. In the bowl of an electric mixer, using the paddle attachment, beat the butter at mediumhigh speed until creamy, about 1 minute. Gradually add the brown sugar and beat at high speed until very light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Reduce the speed to medium-low and add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as necessary. Beat in the vanilla extract. Reduce the speed to low and add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the stout in two additions and mixing just until blended. Add the pecans and mix just until combined. Remove bowl from the mixer stand and stir a few times with the rubber spatula to make sure the batter is evenly blended. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. 4. Bake the cake for 70 to 75 minutes, until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan on a rack for 20 minutes. 5. Invert the cake onto the rack and cool completely. Makes a nine inch cake and serves ten people. 6. Just before serving, dust the top of the cake lightly with confectioners’ sugar or ice it with a cream cheese frosting.