The Bay Area Observer Community News For The Galveston Bay Area VOLUME 2, NO. 14
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
Cities of Seabrook and El Lago Honor The Memory of Valerij Alyohin And Others For Emerald Shores Heroism
By The Bay Gumbo Geaux Geaux Landolt Pavilion in Clear Lake Park. April 9th, 2011 Please join Seabrook Rotary for a day of family fun at the Gumbo Geaux Geaux 2011 on April 9th at Landolt Pavilion in Clear Lake Park. This will be a fun event with zydeco music by the Diva of Zydeco, Lady D and the Zydeco Tornadoes. In addition, there will be a gumbo cook off and crawfish plates available. We will also have vendors for your shopping pleasure.Please support Seabrook Rotary and its work by helping us get gumbo teams and vendors. To make things interesting, we will set aside $1 for every $8 gumbo tasting cup we sell for a cash prize for the peoples choice gumbo award. Prizes will also be awarded from a judging panel for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place gumbo teams. Contacts are: Tim Trahan, Gumbo Cooking Teams, (713) 203-0685, Lisa Cook, Vendors, (281) 474-2528, Glenn Royal, General Questions, (281) 703-3442. Laissez le Bon temp rouler!
The 15th Annual Great Texas Birding Classic April 9 – April 17, 2011 Registration for the 15th Annual Birding Classic is only open for another week! Registration is still available with a late fee. If you have further questions, go online to www.birdingclassic.org. See you on the coast!
Beginning Basket Weaving Workshop University of Houston/ Clear Lake Campus April 10, 2011 April 10, 2011 9 am-5pm Cost: $25 (for materials) Held at University of Houston-Clear Lake Learn to weave an Easter Basket. Sponsored by Clear Lake Basket Weavers Guild, and taught by Stewart McGowan, with the assistance of other Guild members. To register, contact Stewart McGowan, 281-242-5677 by April 5, 2011. For Guild information, contact Gale Brom, 281-557-7572 / LadyBrom@ aol.com or website http://www. clbwg.org. University of Houston/Clear Lake Campus, 9 am - 5 pm. Contact Person:Stewart McGowan at 281-242-5677
Seabrook Volunteer Fire Department From Left To Right: Chief Ray Cook, Trish Cook, Chris Carranza, Hollie Carranza, Debbie Rogers, Elizabeth Fry By Rebecca Collins editor@bayareaobserver.com
During Tuesday night’s City Council meeting, the Cities of Seabrook and El Lago honored the many first responders, organizations, businesses and citizens who helped during and after the disasterous fire at Emerald Shores Apartments. Most notable was the honor bestowed upon Valerij Alyohin, who bravely sacrificed himself to save others from the fire that occurred on February 26th of this year. Val, a 34 year old native of Russia ran door to door warning other residents of the danger. Without regard to his own safety, he continued until everyone was safe. His bravery saved the lives of those residents, but ultimately, Val lost his battle for life due to the severe injuries sustained during the fire. He passed away a few short weeks later. Val leaves behind his mother and sister, who live in California. The cities of Seabrook and El Lago coauthored a proclamation in dedication to Val Alyohin, and Seabrook Mayor Gary Renola read the proclamation presented to Val Alyo-
INDEX Community..........................2 Crossword............................2 Local News..........................4 On The Water......................4 Arts & Entertainment........5 Education............................6 Classifieds............................7 Cuisine.................................8
hin’s family. Part that proclamation read “ On behalf of the Cities of Seabrook, and City of El Lago City Councils and our citizens We recognize and honor the exceptional heroism and sacrifice of Val, and further that this official citation be given to the family of Val with our heartfelt gratitude
and sympathy”. More than 30 presentation were given in thanks for their service. Some of those included: Boondoggles, Coffee Oasis, Mike Giangrosso, Greystar Management Company, Island Furniture, Julie Laverell, Mario’s Flying Pizza, Maverick Remodeling, Dr. Tony McCol-
lum, Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT), Clear Lake Emergency Management Corp., Galveston County Office of Emergency Management, Harris County Homeland Security Emergency Management, Salvation Army Canteen Services, Stewart Elementary School, Texas De-
Members of CERT from left to right back row: Ronica Hall, Debbie Rogers, John Dolan, Elena Dolan, Tom Diegelman, Faye Edwards, Debbi Searls, Nettie Warren, Don Holbrook, Trisha Barton. Front row: Pat Farrell, Jenna Contenta
2,000 Year-Old Deep-Sea Black Corals Call Gulf of Mexico Home
The 19th Annual Ed Brandon Cenikor Golf Tournament Bay Oaks Country Club May 9, 2011 Did you know that, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 23.1 million Americans age 12 and up suffer from some type of substance abuse or chemical dependency? Did you know one of the most researched programs in the nation operates within your backyard? Cenikor has been helping people change since 1967. We would love to discuss how you and/or your business can help make the Greater Houston area a healthier and more productive place to live and work. Cenikor is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and appreciates your help in getting this message to others. For More Information Contact: Roni Archer rarcher@cenikor. org. Sponsorship information available Continued on page 2
THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
partment of Emergency Management, Texas Department of Transportation, Bacliff Volunteer Fire Department, Deer Park Fire Department, Forest Bend Fire Department, Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department, Kemah Fire Department, Lakeview Police Department, La Porte Fire Department, League City Volunteer Fire Department, Nassau Bay Volunteer Fire Department, Pasadena Volunteer Fire Department, Webster Fire Department, Seabrook Community Development Department, Seabrook Office of Emergency Management, Seabrook, Public Works Department, and Seabrook Volunteer Fire Department, Seabrook Police Department and many others. Robert Cook, Fire Chief of Seabrook Volunteer Fire Department said, “ What Val did prior to us getting there saved a lot of lives., and for that we’re ever grateful, and recognize that sacrifice that was made, however, when you look at just the number of people that responded to this event, not just the fire departments, not just the EMS, the community came together”. “I’m grateful for what everyone did,” he said. The outpouring of support from the Seabrook, El Lago and surrounding communities has been overwhelming. B.J. Stampley of Maverick Remodeling told the Bay Area Observer “We filled an 80ft. x 80ft. warehouse twice”. According to Rusty Cates, owner of Coffee Oasis, his business took in approximately $4000, one of which was an anonymous donation for $1000. Donations are still needed, and the St. Stephens Outreach Ministry of the Seabrook United Methodist Church are still accepting and distributing to those in need. They can be reached by contacting Julie Laverell, Director of the Society of St. Stephen Outreach Ministry at 281-326-1970. Office Hours are 9:30am – 5:00pm, Tuesday thru Thursday only. Appointments scheduled: from 9:30 am – 12 noon. See more photos on page 3
Port Commission Approves Nearly $35 Million in Contracts For Bayport Container Terminal Improvements Despite Fog Impacts in February, Steel Up 84 Percent Over 2010, CEO Dreyer Reports
These orange-colored, black coral trees growing in the Gulf of Mexico are among the oldest living organisms on Earth Courtesy of the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Geological Survey
For the first time, scientists have been able to validate the age of deep-sea black corals in the Gulf of Mexico. They found the Gulf is home to 2,000 year-old deep-sea black corals, many of which are only a few feet tall. These slow-growing, longliving animals thrive in very deep waters—300 meters (984 feet) and deeper—yet scientists say they are sensitive to what is
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happening in the surface ocean as well as on the sea floor. “The fact that the animals live continuously for thousands of years amazes me,” said Dr. Nancy Prouty of the U.S. Geological Survey Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, who analyzed the coral samples that were collected by the USGS and colleagues as part of several ongoing deepsea coral ecosystem studies between 2003 and 2009. “Despite living at 300 meters and
deeper, these animals are sensitive to what is going on in the surface ocean because they are feeding on organic matter that rapidly sinks to the sea floor. Since longevity is a key factor for population maintenance, recovery from a disturbance to these ecosystems, natural or manmade, may take decades to centuries.” Reliably age dating the corals, as done in the recent study, is a critical step in using them as natural archives of environContinued on page 3
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The Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority awarded a $33.2 million construction contract to Satterfield & Pontikes Construction, Inc. for the Phase 3 entry and exit gate at the Bayport Terminal and authorized a $1.1 million amendment to the Port Authority’s contract with Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. for Bayport Terminal, among several matters approved during the April 5 meeting. In his monthly report, Chief Executive Officer Alec G. Dreyer noted that February was a tough month with significant fog-related impacts throughout the port, including 11 consecutive days when port activities were adversely affected by fog delays or were shut down entirely. “Coming out of this lengthy fog slowdown, the Houston Pilots handled a record 95 vessels in one day, a testament to their commitment to keeping the Houston Ship Channel open for business,” Dreyer said. In spite of the fog conditions, steel had an excellent month in February, as the Port Authority handled more than 230,000 tons as compared to 125,000 tons in February 2010, an 84-percent increase. “Year to date, steel is up 740,000 tons or 69 percent over last year, giving us a nice boost going into the strong summer season,” Dreyer said. “Turning Basin revenue for the first two months is up some 23 percent, which is directly related to the strong increase in steel.” TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) volumes were down 6 percent, but container tonnage was down only 2 percent in February versus last year. Dreyer also noted that year to date, TEU volumes are flat compared to last year, while container tonnage is up 2 percent overall. Container volumes for March looked reasonably strong through the first three weeks of the month, and Dreyer predicted a return to a stronger growth mode by month’s end. Continued on page 3
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PAGE 2
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
COMMUNITY Seabrook Gears Up for Barbara Norwine Of La Porte Nation’s Largest Classic Awarded The Presidential Car and Wooden Boat Show Volunteer Service Award Seabrook is a community best known for its beautiful waterfront property and miles of scenic nature trails. The city also plays host to one of the region’s most popular events, Keels & Wheels Concours d’Elegance, now in its sixteenth year. Held at Lakewood Yacht Club, the event attracts more than 15,000 visitors from across the globe. Approximately 300 classic cars and boats from around the United States are on display, showcasing some of the most interesting vehicles seldom seen traversing the roads or cruising the shores these days. Other vintage vehicles will be available for sale during the event’s Houston Classic Auction. The City of Seabrook and the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation are proud supporters of the event. “Keels & Wheels is a great endeavor that brings tremendous economic value to the local economy and the Seabrook community,” stated Ernie Davis, President of the Seabrook EDC. “LYC Concours Corporation, the company that operates Keels & Wheels, also generously contributes to various local charities, such as Boys and Girls Harbor.” As a result of their contributions to the community and the organization’s philanthropic spirit, LYC Concours Corporation was chosen as the 2010 Business-of-the-Year by Seabrook EDC. “We are thrilled to have been selected for this great honor,” said Bob Fuller, Chairman and co-founder of Keels & Wheels. “We have another amazing weekend planned that is expected to top prior attendance records, so we encourage the community and any car or boat enthusiasts to join us for exceptional displays, fun performances and one of the largest auctions in the nation of its kind.” The award was presented to both Fuller and co-founder Paul Merryman at the annual Economic Alliance Houston Port Region awards banquet. Keels & Wheels will be held this year from April 30 - May 1. Attendees can view nearly 200 cars and more than 100 boats on display, enjoy festive music and stroll along the marina of Lakewood Yacht Club. This year’s theme pays tribute to the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500, and will feature previously raced Indy cars, such as the 1935 Miller-Ford, and pace cars.
Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser, April 8th at Jennie Riley Center The La Porte Community Civic Club will be sponsoring a Spaghetti Dinner on Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Jennie Riley Center from 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. The members will be serving up Meat Ball Spaghetti, Ground Meat & Spaghetti, Italian Spaghetti and Shrimp Spaghetti with Green Salad, French bread, tea and peach Cobbler. You don’t have to cook, just come on out to Jennie Riley Center at 322 North 4th Street. Sample one of all Spaghetti for a $7.00 donation. Monies will help sponsor the Scholarship fund and Juneteenth activities. For information call Mary Gay at 281-471-3259 or Daisy Roscoe at 281-471-4740.
Farmers’ Market at Clear Lake Shores Turns Two! The Farmers’ Market at Clear Lake Shores will celebrate its second anniversary this month with a birthday bash Saturday, April 16, from 8 a.m. to noon. To celebrate this milestone the Market will offer special activities and free giveaways to its loyal customers. The first 200 customers that morning will get a free reusable, environmentally friendly market bag bearing the Farmers’ Market logo. Patrons can also pick up a free ticket for door prize drawings held throughout the morning for goodies donated by Market vendors. Many Clear Lake Shores residents who worked so tirelessly to start the Market two years ago will join in the celebration. Local artist Mickey Hobbs will serenade the crowds; cooking demonstrations by Mellies Happy Bellies will make mouths’ water, and Stewart Elementary PTA volunteers will help kids discover horticulture. Bay Area Turning Point will host a bake sale and a raffle for a Weber grill that morning to benefit the program’s new resale shop in Seabrook. Resale shop proceeds help Turning Point shelter and support battered/abused women and their families as they struggle to restart their lives. The Farmers Market at Clear Lake Shores was begun in April of 2009 as a civic project of the city of Clear Lake Shores. Conceived as a small market with high standards for vendors and products, the Market has maintained those standards as it has matured. It is a neighborhood market, a non-profit project run by a committee of dedicated volunteers that has maintained its small town charm and standards. As a Texas Certified Farmers’ Market, it features homegrown, homemade, natural and organic products, live music and local vendors. At the birthday bash April 16, Market patrons can win one of many door prizes being donated by vendors. The list of prizes includes: • Two Meals – Mellies Happy Bellies • 8” New York Cheese Cake – Catering by Renee • A Piece of Delafield Pottery • An Easter Basket full of Goodies – Organo Gold • Indian Cuisine – Nishias • Custom Designed Creation – Ergo Jewelry • Ceramic Tortilla Warmer – Celebrating Home • Basket of Fresh Baked Goods – Angela’s Oven • Fruit and Veggie Basket – Frobergs Fruit & Vegetable Farm • 2 lbs. Ground Beef – Law Cattle Company • Assortment Organic Spices – Salt, Spice and More • Flourless Cake - J&S Desserts • 1 lb. Each Ground Beef, Pork, Lamb & Chicken Breast – Georgia’s Grass Fed Beef and Natural Meats • Goat Cheese – Water Oak Farm • 6-Pack of Olive Oil – The Spice Lady • Potted Fruit Tree – Faith’s Garden • 1 lb. Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee – Imagine Coffee • 2 CDs by the one and only Mickey Hobbs The Farmer’s Market at Clear Lake Shores is located at 1020 Marina Bay Drive (FM 2094) between Clear Lake Road and Skipper’s Restaurant, across from the Marina Bay RV Park. Look for the lot full of white tents, ample convenient parking off Clear Lake Road, and hoards of happy people enjoying a fun, flavorful morning at the market! For more information visit the market’s Facebook page at http:// www.facebook.com/farmersmarketatclearlakeshores, website at http://sites.google.com/site/farmersmarketatcls/, or contact Market Manager Charlie Hester at charlie@charliehester.com.
Congressman Ted Poe and Barbara Norwine By Jeff Suggs, Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of La Porte
Depending on the flavor of dictionary or online reference of your choice, the word “volunteer” has basically the same meaning. “To give of one’s time”, is the overall gist of the meaning. Volunteers are everywhere. We see them every day and generally do not think twice about them, the function they are performing or the random act of kindness that goes along with being a volunteer. We recently saw the heroic act of a young man who saved many lives during an apartment fire in the Seabrook area. He gave his life to save others. Over 90% of our fire departments in the Bay Area are volunteer fire departments. Every day they get in a large truck and move down the road to face a situation that most people can’t comprehend. Why would they do such a thing? If you ask most volunteers in the community why they volunteer their services, time and efforts, the resounding message will be “it’s the right thing to do”. During this same apartment fire did you know that the Bay Area CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) jumped into action? Many citizens on this team responded to help shelter, feed and comfort those who had lost or were in the process of losing all of their belongings. This was a Saturday folks and a pretty one at that! Why would someone stop the yard work, cookout plans and fishing trips just to help their fellow citizen? Again ask them, “It’s the right thing to do”. We are blessed in the Bay Area to have so many good people who are willing to help each other out. We saw this during the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. We see it every day with City Councils, firefighters, Citizen Police Academy’s and individuals who just feel the need to give back to the community. One special individual from La Porte was recently the recipient of a prestigious award. Barbara Norwine of La Porte was recently awarded the Presidential Volunteer Service Award for all of her efforts in helping the community as a volunteer. Ladies and Gents, they just don’t give these kinds of awards out for random press opportunities. You really have to work to get something like this. We at La Porte OEM have known Barbara for years. We have seen the things she has done with youth groups, churches and women’s shelters to know she has definitely put the time in to receive such an award. Thanks Barbara, for all you do. If there is one thing we should all take from volunteers like Barbara, it should be their compassion. The compassion these individuals feel for their fellow citizens allows them to act in order to alleviate the pain and suffering of those in need. Let’s all make the effort to thank a volunteer even if we can’t find the time to do what they do. Pat them on the back, shake their hand or just drop them a note and let them know they are appreciated. As the springtime gives way to a few storms and hurricane season nears, please focus on your plans, your family actions and how you too can make a difference in someone’s life by being a volunteer. Call us here at La Porte OEM if you need information on being a volunteer, emergency management related issues or if you just need someone to listen. Above all, smile…it’s contagious. La Porte OEM: (281) 470-0010.
Grand Opening of Carothers Gardens The Drusilla Carothers Coastal Gardens, located at 502 Pine Gully in Seabrook, will officially open in Seabrook on Saturday, April 9. There will be a ribbon cutting at noon, followed by an Open House until 4:00 p.m. The public is invited. The Open House will showcase Seabrook’s newest and much anticipated 8.5-acre park which boasts a lovely mission-style home, beautiful gardens and a waterfront view of Galveston Bay. The facility is an extension of and located adjacent to Pine Gully Park in northeast Seabrook. The property was acquired by the City of Seabrook through a 2007 public referendum. The property was home to the late Drusilla (“Dru”) Dickson, née Carothers, who served on the Seabrook Parks Board some twenty years ago and was instrumental in the development of the city’s prized network of hiking and jogging trails. The house and grounds are the perfect venues for weddings, social, corporate, or civic functions. It is also suitable for exhibitions, small-scale conferences, and environmental education activities. “Seabrook has never had a park property of this kind,” said the city’s Open Space Committee Chair Dori Nelson. “It enriches what our park system offers in exciting new ways. Everyone is invited to come and see the house, walk the grounds, and stroll down to the bay.” Nelson noted that visitors seeing the place for the first time often comment that they feel as if they have left town: “The spacious garden with its wooded boundaries creates a wonderful sense of seclusion. It makes a most inviting event venue.”
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
Arts & Entertainment Reporter...................Mason Sterling Sales Representative..............................Beverly Lawrence La Porte Area • 281-793-7961 • blawrence506@msn.com
Sales Representative...................................Charlotte Horn
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Administrative Professionals Celebration Meeting Hilton Garden Inn, Webster April 18, 2011, 5:45 p.m On Monday, April 18, 2011, the Clear Lake/NASA chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals will be celebrating Administrative Professionals Day at this meeting. The speaker, Sophia Matthews, will present “We Need to Talk – Having a Crucial Conversation.” This program will help you learn how to achieve dialogue at all levels of your organization; learn new tools to resolve disagreements; speak persuasively and foster teamwork. The meeting/dinner will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn – Clear Lake/NASA in Webster, TX beginning at 5:45 p.m. All administrative professionals throughout Houston and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please make your reservations to attend this meeting by April 14, 2011. For reservations and more information on this chapter, please visit www.iaap-clnac.org or contact 281-910-2297.
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
Continued from page 1
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
City Celebration on April 16th will commemorate El Lago’s 50th Anniversary The City’s 50 Anniversary Celebration is upon us! Saturday, April 16th is promising to be a day full of fun, toys, cars, music, BBQ and (of course) adult libations! Don’t forget to come by City Hall to purchase your El Lago proud customized package deal or BBQ ticket ahead of time. The package deal includes a reusable grocery bag, 20 oz. water bottle, coozie, cool carabineer bottle holder, Astronaut house map,T-shirt and BBQ meal ticket - what a deal, all for only $15.00! Single BBQ tickets are also available for $5.00 each. Package deals and BBQ tickets will be available the day of the event, but no promises that we won’t run out, so purchase early to guarantee a day of fun. Here’s the schedule of events: 9:00 a.m. - 5K Space Run – Starts and ends at McNair Park 10:30 a.m. - Annual Easter Egg Hunt 1:00 p.m. - Antique Car Show BBQ Cook-off Judging BBQ Meal Kids Toys/Attractions Local Bands on Stage 4:00 p.m. - 1960’s Tribute Band “Cartoon Sky” ALL EVENTS WILL BE AT MCNAIR PARK!
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THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
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LOCAL NEWS Councils Honor Heroes.... Continued from page 1
Tony McCollum, Sr. Pastor, Seabrook United Methodist Church and Julie Laverell, Director of the Society of St. Stephen Outreach Ministry
OBITUARIES
B.J. Stampley and Kaysie Stampley, Owners of Maverick Remodeling and Rusty Cates Owner of Coffee Oasis
2000 Year-Old Black Coral.... Continued from page 1
mental change. Like shallow-water coral reefs, deepsea coral-reef ecosystems are among the most diverse and productive communities on Earth, providing shelter and feeding grounds for commercial and non-commercial fish species and their prey, as well as breeding and nursery areas. Activities that affect both the seafloor and the surface ocean, such as certain methods of petroleum exploration and commercial fishing, can impact these ecosystems. “We used a manned submersible, the Johnson-Sea-Link, to go to the sea floor and specifically collect certain samples using the sub’s manipulator arms,” said Prouty. “Deep-sea black corals are a perfect example of ecosystems linked between the surface and the deep ocean. They can potentially record this link in their skeleton for hundreds to thousands of years.” The skeletons that these animals secrete continuously over hundreds to thousands of years offer an unprecedented window into past environmental conditions. Age dating used in combination with emerging technologies, such as sampling skeletal material with a laser to determine its chemical composition, enables scientists to reconstruct environmental conditions in time slices smaller than a decade over the last 1,000 to 2,000 years. Black corals grow in tree- or bush-like forms. Scientists confirmed that black corals are the slowest growing deep-sea cor-
als. They grow 8 to 22 micrometers per year as compared to the shallow-water reef-building coral, typically found in tropical areas like Hawaii, which grows about 1 mm per year, or 65 times as fast as black coral. Human fingernails grow about 3 mm per year, or 200 times faster than black coral. Because black corals get their food from sinking organic matter instead of from symbiotic algae, like their shallow-water counterparts, they need skeletons that are flexible but strong enough to withstand currents that transport food to the colonies. In addition to a constant flow of water bringing them food and oxygen, the corals require a stable substrate, such as volcanic or calcareous rock, or even a shipwreck or oil rig that can serve as a platform for the corals to settle on and build their skeletons. Black corals can capture and record in their skeletons the history of changing concentrations of carbon in surface waters and the atmosphere. Unlike the skeletons of most shallow-water corals, which consist of calcium carbonate, black coral skeletons are composed mainly of organic matter: successive layers of protein and chitin (a long molecule containing carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen) glued together by a cement layer. These skeletons are very similar to insect cuticles in that they are quite flexible and can thus bend in water currents.
Paul Barnes, 77, of La Porte passed away Tuesday March 29, 2011. He was born June 16, 1933 in Sulphur, Oklahoma to Lillie Mae and Virgil Barnes. He is survived by his wife Kylene Barnes, daughters Paula Bauer, Pam Davis and husband Steve, sister Jean Storseth and husband Bill, and grandchildren Nikki Bauer, Kacey Bauer, Shellie Bauer, Joni Bauer, Jonathan Davis, and Kimberly Davis. Visitation will be held Friday April 1, 2011 at 5-7PM at Paul U. Lee La Porte Funeral Home Chapel. Services will be held Saturday April 2, 2011 at 10AM at First United Methodist Church of La Porte.
Jackie Gresham was born August 26, 1955 in Pasadena, Texas to Doris(Wallace) and Jack Gresham. She is preceded in death by her father Jack and sister Donna Lynn McBride. Jackie is survived by her loving mother Doris Gresham, brother in law Bill and Sharon McBride, nieces and nephews Jay and Magda McBride, Jack and Debbie McBride, Krista and Chester Labus, Will Cocanougher, great nieces and nephews Jake McBride, Jett McBride, Chester Labus, Ian Labus, Jack McBride, and numerous Aunts, Uncles, and other family members. Visitation will be held Wednesday April 6, 2011 at 6-8PM at Paul U. Lee La Porte Funeral Home Chapel. Services will be held Thursday April 7, 2011 at 2PM at La Porte Community Church.
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hour period. When using charcoal, never spray lighter fluid onto coals that are hot or burning, as it may cause severe injury. Another hazard associated with back yard barbeques is matches and lighters. Many grills require
stoves, ovens, and fire places. La Porte’s Office of the Fire Marshall extends good wishes to all citizens hosting a backyard barbecuing event. By following these simple tips, residents can ensure that their experience is a safe one.
La Porte Police Report Low Crime in City for 2010
As part of the requirements set forth by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Police submit monthly tallies of their crime statistics, according to the requirements aligned with the FBI’s National Uniform Crime Report (UCR). While the 2010 annual release of the DPS official report, “Crime in Texas,” will not be available for several months, results obtained from various local agencies are comforting for the residents of the City of La Porte. The evaluation of initial 2010 crime percentages obtained from neighboring communities showed that the City of La Porte enjoys a much lower rate than a vast majority of area communities.
GRESHAM
“The flexibility and shiny luster of black coral have made it a precious commodity in the coral jewelry trade and international trade is regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora,” noted Prouty. “In fact, black corals have been harvested for centuries to create charms; the scientific name of the order to which black corals belong, ‘Antipatharia,’ comes from Greek roots meaning ‘against suffering.’” Like trees, black corals exhibit radial growth, with the oldest skeletal material found in the center and successfully younger material building out toward the edge. Viewed in a horizontal cross section, the black coral’s growth bands resemble tree rings. USGS scientists and their colleagues, for example, are measuring trace metals and stable isotopes in the black coral skeleton that are related to nutrient supply in surface waters, which in turn may reflect the amount of runoff from nearby land surfaces. With a proper understanding of how these chemical constituents vary over time, scientists can reconstruct a record of environmental changes, such as changes in land-based sources of nutrients and nat- Continued from page 1 ural variations in climate. For more information on black coral Engineering & Real Estate found in the Gulf of Mexico go to the USGS website. http://www.usgs.gov. (Agenda H5) The Port Commission approved a $1.1 million amendment to the Port Authority’s contract with Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. for Bayport Terminal Complex Phase I Program Management. The contract has been amended annually to provide for specific tasks scheduled for the upcoming year. Proposed Year Ten services will include design management for gate expansion, security and railroad signal projects. Also included will be construction management and inspection for security, multiple Bayport buildings and gate expansion contracts. matches and lighters to ignite lighter fluid, charcoal, or pro(Agenda H6) The Port Commission awarded a $33.2 million conpane. It is important to remember struction contract to Satterfield & Pontikes Construction, Inc. for to secure matches and lighters the Phase 3 entry and exit gate at the Bayport Terminal. The gate after use. Matches and lighters provides for permanent inbound and outbound lanes, support buildin the hands of a child remains a ings, canopies and associated infrastructure to support operations very common cause of residenthrough ultimate buildout of the container terminal. Satterfield & tial fires; one that can easily be Pontikes’ proposal was determined to offer the best value to the Port avoided. Propane is also a very common Authority of the six competitive sealed proposals received. fuel in back yard grills. Cylinders As a separate item, at its meeting today, the Board of Directors of should be turned off when not in the Port of Houston Authority International Corporation (POHAIC) or email us at use and should never be stored agreed to terminate the 2010 Memorandum of Understanding beeditor@ near heat sources or in vehicles. bayareaobserver.com tween POHAIC and Libya and to dissolve POHAIC in its current Heat sources include: hot water form. heaters, electrical equipment,
La Porte Fire Marshall’s Office Reminds Citizens to BBQ Safely With summertime upon us, it is important to focus on safety when it comes to back yard barbequing. Hazards associated with barbeques include: propane, hot coals, lighter fluid, and matches. Used charcoal is a common ignition source for many trash can and dumpster fires. When using charcoal in barbeques, it is important to ensure that all coals are completely extinguished before discarding. Carelessness with hot coals routinely causes fires, often resulting in a response by the Fire Department. These responses take fire apparatus out of service to deal with easily avoidable fires. Before discarding used charcoal, ensure that the coals are completely extinguished by soaking them in water or allowing them to burn themselves out over a 24
BARNES
Last year’s 2009 “Crime in Texas” report reflected that La Porte remains one of the safest cities of its size in the State of Texas and the same results are expected in the fall of this year. For comparison purposes, the national average in 2009 for cities with a population of 25,000 to 49,999 (790 cities reporting), reflected the City of La Porte as being lower than the national average in each crime category of, murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft. Information published toward the end of 2009 by the State of Texas regarding these same crimes showed that the city of La Porte had the least number of total offenses when compared in ranking order to nearby cities such as Deer Park, Webster, South Houston, Texas City, League City, Galveston, Baytown, and Pasadena. Initial figures collected from neighboring police agencies indicate the crime rate of La Porte remains the lowest when compared to the same neighboring cities for 2010 as well. A current comparison with the crime percentages received from the immediate
Texas Bottle Bill assigned to the Environmental Regulations Committee and Finance Committee The Texas. Bottle Bill, HB 2114 and SB 1119, has been assigned to the Environmental Regulations Committee in the House of Representatives and the Finance Committee in the Senate. The Environmental Regulations Committee hearing for HB 2114 MAY be scheduled for Wed. April 13.; if not on the 13th, likely Wed. April 20th. A plastic water bottle lodged in the pelvic bones of a Brown Pelican skeleton on the North Jetty on Bolivar, Galveston County is one isolated but representative example of the damage beverage containers can do when left in the environment. HB 2114 and SB 1119 will create the incentive to put these items back into the raw materials and economic system where they belong. Please help keep beverage containers out of the natural environment, roadways, parks, streams, rivers, bayous, bays and Gulf by contacting the House Committee on Environmental Regulations. Strong opposition to HB 2114 from the beverage industry and retailers is likely. Citizens voicing their support of HB 2114 to their legisla-
neighboring cities of Baytown, Pasadena, and Deer Park alone reveal crime rate percentages of 6.00 percent, 5.13 percent, and 3.51 percent, respectively, while a citizen of La Porte had only a 2.84 tors is the best and only means for our legislators percent chance of being effected to know that their voting constituents are in favor by these crimes for the 2010 calof HB 2114. Even better, if one of the committee endar year. members is your representative! The La Porte Police Department It is imperative that HB 2114 make it past the also reported making strides in Committee on Environmental Regulations. Your keeping the roadways of La Porte voice to the Chair and Vice Chair will prove to safe, citing traffic safety as a high be very powerful. Please take time this week to priority for the community. In contact one or both by phone, letter (best meth2010, the agency logged a 51.16% od), email, and/or fax. Of course contacting all increase in arrests for Driving of the members is even more effective. While Intoxicated, a 77.91% increase in Commercial Motor Ve- Here is the contact info. (Note that 5 of the 9 members are located in high density bird and voter areas.) hicle (CMV) inspections, and a The Honorable (Representatives Name and Title) 117% increase in overall CMV citations. All of these factors House Committee on Environmental Regulations (must be the heading) contributed to a 15.7% decrease Member of the House in motor vehicle collisions within P. O. Box 2910 the City of La Porte. Austin, 78768-2910 For more information on Uni- Chair: Rep. Wayne Smith (Baytown) ph. 512 463 0733 fax 512 463 1323 form Crime Reporting statistics Vice Chair: Rep. Jessica Farrar (Houston) ph. 512 463 0620 fax 512 463 0894 in Texas, log onto the Texas DPS Members: Rep. Jose Aliseda (Beeville) ph. 512 463 0645 fax 512 463 0559 website at www.txdps.state.tx.us. Additionally, a link to Uniform Rep. Lon Burnam (Ft.Worth) ph. 512 463 0740 fax 512 463 1075 Crime Reporting information for Rep. Warren Chisum (Pampa) ph. 512 463 0736 fax 512 463 0211 the City of La Porte and its neighRep. Kelly Hancock (N.Richland) ph. 512 463 0599 fax 512 463 0751 boring communities can also be Rep. Ken Legler (Pasadena) ph. 512 4630460, fax 512 463 0763 found at www.ci.laporte.tx.us/ Rep. Lanham Lyne (Wichita Falls) 512 463 0543, fax 512 463 8161 gov/police/ucrstats. Rep. Ron Reynolds (Missouri City) 512 463 0494, fax 512 463 1403
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THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
ON THE WATER James Masters Joins Lakewood Yacht Club As New Sous Chef
Lakewood Yacht Club’s new Sous Chef James Masters comes to us with a wealth of restaurant experience. From a chef in the Army to the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston, James agrees that his “learning by doing” goes way beyond cooking lessons in the classroom. Born in Seattle, Washington, James lived there for his first 11 years before the Masters family ventured to the Dallas area of Texas. Later, they migrated south to Pasadena where he graduated from Pasadena High School before joining the Army. He served for three years as a chef at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Upon returning to Texas, James attended and graduated from San Jacinto College before entering the working world as a cook at the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston where he worked for three years. His next chef’s position was at the popular Charlie’s 517 in the theatre district. After Charlie’s 517, for ten years James was a corporate chef for the Stanford Financial Group where he prepared vegetable dishes and mostly fish for the healthy-eating president and CEO Robert Stanford. Moving on to Pearland where he and wife Maly now live, he became Chef De Partie for a bistro called Vineyard on the Square. James returned to the Four Seasons for a year as their Sous Chef before joining Lakewood’s kitchen staff as Sous Chef in early March. James acquired an interest in cooking while in high school. “My grandma was a very good cook, and although I didn’t spend much time with her when I was a teenager, she was my inspiration for becoming a chef,” he related. His favorite type food to prepare is Mexican. “I like both traditional Mexican and Tex/Mex, but I especially enjoys preparing fish tacos tempora style and mole’ sauces for meat,” James added. James likes the atmosphere here at Lakewood as well as the friendly people. He and wife Maly enjoy traveling in their free time.
Keels & Wheels Earns Business Of The Year Award
Keels & Wheels Chairman Bob Fuller (left) and Co-Chairman Paul Merryman showed Keels & Wheels volunteers the Business of the Year Award they earned for the city of Seabrook, presented to them by the Port of Houston Economic Alliance late last year. Approximately 75 volunteers were meeting in the ballroom of Lakewood Yacht Club, host of the upcoming 16th Annual Keels & Wheels.
The Port of Houston Economic Alliance honored Lakewood Yacht Club’s Keels & Wheels event as the Business of the Year for Seabrook. Nominated by the Seabrook Economic Development Council, the recipients of the award were Keels & Wheels Founder and Chairman
Bob Fuller and Co-Founder Co-Chairman Paul Merryman. Seabrook Mayor Gary Renola related that the Keels & Wheels, also called the Concours d’Elegance, is the largest classic automobile and wooden boat show in the country. It’s economic impact to the Bay
Area each year is over four million dollars. “Keels & Wheels is also the largest event happening in our city with a draw of over 12,000 people during the first weekend in May,” Renola related. The awards ceremony was held at the Pasadena Conven-
tion Center at the end of last year. Fuller related that there were over 600 attendees at the banquet where all the member cities of the Port of Houston Economic Alliance awarded their own Business of the Year. At a Keels & Wheels volunteer committee meeting, Fuller announced the Business of the Year Award to over 75 volunteers in attendance. This annual event involves at least 30 subcommittees all working to make the show a success. The 16th Annual Keels and Wheels will be held on the grounds and in the harbor of Lakewood Yacht Club, 2425 NASA Parkway, Seabrook, TX, on Sat., April 30 and Sun., May 1. This is the only time that Lakewood Yacht Club is open to the public. Tickets can be purchased on line at www.lakewoodyachtclub.com under the Keels & Wheels button. This year’s theme is Indianpolis racing cars celebrating their 100th anniversary. Of special note on the boating side, Century Boats will be honored featuring Merryman’s Century Gold Wing Sabre which is the last wooden Sabre boat produced by the company in 1967. He will also have on display one of only six Century Gold Wing fiberglass Sabres built in 1976 to commemorate the company’s 50th anniversary of building boats.
2nd Annual J/Fest Southwest Slated For Oct. 29-30
Sea Lake Yacht Sales Shoe Regatta Slated For May 21 & 22 Lakewood Yacht Club Race Committee Chairman Dwight Bengtson has announced that the Sea Lake Yacht Sales Shoe Regatta will be held over the weekend of May 21 & 22. In 1982, Lakewood hosted the first Shoe Regatta, and now the club is the organizing authority. Bay Access, a not for profit organization that supports amateur racing, is the host. The Regatta, which is open to the public, is a favorite among local racers because each crew member of the winning boat in each class is awarded a West Marine gift card. The Shoe Regatta is for one-design, handicapped, and cruising sailboats over 20 feet in length and with a cabin. There will be three race courses set on Galveston Bay: a windward/leeward course for the One Design classes; a windward/leeward course for handicap rated boats; and a third triangular course to provide a long race for handicap rated spinnaker and non-spinnaker boats. PHRF Certificates are not required for Cruisers. The Skippers Meeting will be held on Fri., May 20, 7:30 pm in the ballroom of Lakewood Yacht Club, 2425 NASA Parkway, Seabrook, TX. “We urge all skippers to attend this important gathering so that they can take full advantage of all aspects of this weekend regatta,” related Bengtson. In addition to the title sponsor Sea Lake Yacht Sales, other sponsors this year are Banks Sails as the Gold Sponsor, Mount Gay Rum as the Silver Sponsor and Bay Access as the Bronze Sponsor. The Saturday evening party will have live entertainment, food, and beverages. The awards ceremony will follow the last race on Sun., May 22, and will be held in the ballroom of Lakewood Yacht Club. Participants can register on line at www.lakewoodregatta.com For questions, please contact Lakewood Yacht Club at lyc@lakewoodyachtclub.com or call the office at 281-474-2511.
La Porte Parks & Recreation Department Presents
Jake Hooker & the Outsiders
April 15, 2011 7pm- 9pm 5 Points Town Plaza, 201 S. Broadway in La Porte Free to the public. Bring your lawn chair, mosquito spray, & cooler (no glass). For more information call 281-470-7275.
Best Dog Gone Dog Contest
April 16, 2011 7pm- 9pm 5 Points Town Plaza, 201 S. Broadway in La Porte Registration begins at 9:30am. Donations excepted. Proof of vaccination required. For more information call 281-470-7275.
Lakewood Yacht Club (LYC) Race Committee Chairman Dwight Bengtson has announced that the club will be hosting its 2nd Annual J/Fest Southwest Regatta on Sat., Oct. 29 and Sun., Oct. 30. Open to the public, races will be held on Galveston Bay. The City of Seabrook is the Platinum Level Sponsor. Last year was the inaugural run of a J/Fest Regatta in Texas although such regattas have been held for over 25 years in Annapolis, San Diego, San Francisco, New Orleans and Seattle. “This will be another great opportunity for Lakewood to promote and support a national caliber event,” remarked Bengtson. The focus of this J/Fest Southwest Regatta is to provide a venue that is all inclusive to J/Boat owners, their family, and friends. While the racers are on the water, their spouses, children, family and friends can enjoy a myriad of activities and tourist attractions in the Bay Area Houston arena.
Through the Bay Access charitable association, four sailing scholarships are being offered this year to area youth sailors. The scholarships will fund a one week long sailing camp using the facilities at Lakewood Yacht Club, 2425 NASA Parkway, Seabrook, TX, 77586. Bay Access will also furnish the sailboats and other equipment needed for the selected children. The first camp is the Seahorse Camp which runs from June 6 – June 10 and is for 6th, 7,th, and 8th graders, ages 11 – 14. This is a stay-over-night camp in Lakewood’s clubhouse where meals and daily instructions will be provided. The second camp is a day camp called Opti Camp named for the type of boat, an Optimist, that the younger children use. It is from 9 am to 5 pm, June 13 17 for children in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades, with parents providing transportation for the sailors to and from the club. A mandatory applicant profile form must be completed in order to apply for the scholarship. These can be picked up, mailed, faxed, or e-mailed from Lakewood’s clubhouse office and then returned to the office by Fri., April 8th. Prerequisites for a child applying for a scholarship include letters of recommendations from friends or a pastor with at least one from a teacher; a grade point average of C+ or better; and the
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The pre-regatta Skippers’ Meeting will be held in the ballroom of LYC on the evening of Fri., Oct. 28, 6:30 pm for check-in, meeting, and refreshments. A pool party and dinner are planned after the races on Saturday. The Awards Ceremony will take place on Sun., Oct. 30, after the races. At least 70 boats from all over the country are expected to participate in the J/Fest Southwest Regatta. J/Boats Southwest’s Scott Spurlin and wife Terry of Austin, TX have been instrumental in spreading the word about the event. It is a collaborative effort between J/Boats Southwest and Lakewood Yacht Club, located on Clear Lake in Seabrook, TX. A myriad of sponsorship opportunties are available by contacting Scott Spurlin at scott@Jboatssouthwest.com. For further information, please go to the website www.JfestSouthwest.com
Bay Access To Offer 4 Sailing Scholarships
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Goodie bags for skippers will contain coupons for family fun. “Since Seabrook is the title sponsor for our regatta, we hope that visiting racers will book accommodations at our fine Seabrook motels,” added Rear Commodore Carl Drechsel who was instrumental last year in acquiring regatta support from the city’s hotel/motel tax marketing fund. J/Fest Southwest is inviting J/boat owners from all over the nation to bring their J/Boats to Seabrook and to participate in fall/winter sailing at J/Fest Southwest and other local regattas. One design fleets slated for the J/Fest Southwest Regatta include J/22, J/24, J/80, J/105 and the J/109. It will be a circuit stop for the J/24’s and the J/80’s. All J/Boats are welcome to race in the PHRF classes and in the J/Cruise class. Any J/ Boat is eligible to participate and the regatta organizers intend to offer several exciting formats for the non One Design racers.
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ability to pass a swimming test. In addition, the child should have a high degree of interest in learning how to sail, but no experience is needed. The child must also submit a 100-200 word essay on one of the following subjects: why he or she would like to learn to sail or why he or she would want to go to sailing camp, or on a topic related to the environment or concerns regarding the Galveston Bay ecosystem. Letters of reference and the essay must be submitted no later than Fri., April 8th, to Bay Access, % Lakewood Yacht Club’s address, or dropped off at the Front Gate at the club’s entrance. Applicants will be notified by Fri., April 22nd, of the scholarship decisions at which time those selected must be willing to complete Lakewood’s sailing camp application including a waiver of liability. Bay Access is a not-for-profit organization that fosters amateur boating and sailing activities in the Clear Lake area. It was also formed to promote the conservation and use of our oceans and bays with a special emphasis on Galveston Bay. For further information or questions on the Bay Access scholarship program, please e-mail the club at lyc@lakewoodyachtclub. com or call 281-474-2511.
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THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Local Artist Brian Sterling’s Work On Display At Watson Gallery
Marlene Rigby and Artist Brian Sterling With“Paris”, Sterling’s Latest Commission. La Porte artist, Brian Sterling, exhibited several of his works at Watson Gallery’s “March Madness Art Show” on March 30th in Houston. The show featured noted artists Jim Phillips, Paris Holt, Scott G, Michelle Huff, Tracey Bautista, SG Abstract, Ernest Lizcano and Mina Agah among others. Brian’s exhibition featured his most popular paintings as well as his latest project, “Paris”, commissioned by Mrs. Marlene Rigby. His artwork is often premiered and featured at Watson Gallery events throughout the year. The gallery is located at 716 W. Alabama St. in Houston. For more information on certain shows and exhibitions, contact The Watson Gallery at watsongallery@yahoo.com or call (585) 737-9524.
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THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
EDUCATION San Jacinto College And New Robinson Elementary Principal Named La Porte ISD Opens Dual Jones has served as principal of Landolt Elementary School in Enrollment Center For Friendswood. “The 2008 CCISD ElemenHigh School Students tary Principal of the Year will
From left to right: Dr. Neil Matkin, San Jacinto College Central campus president; Dr. Ruede Wheeler, San Jacinto College Board of Trustees member; John Moon Jr., San Jacinto College Board of Trustees member; Marie Flickinger, San Jacinto College Board of Trustees chair; Dr. Brenda Hellyer, San Jacinto College chancellor; Lloyd W. Graham, La Porte Independent School District (ISD) superintendent of schools; Dr. Joanne Kolius, La Porte High School principal; Dee Anne Thomson, La Porte ISD Board of Trustees member; Bill Snead, La Porte ISD Board of Trustees president; Lee Wallace, La Porte ISD Board of Trustees member; Virginia Pierson-Turner, La Porte ISD Board of Trustee member; Charlcya Wheeler, La Porte ISD Board of Trustees secretary; Craig Hulcy, La Porte ISD Board of Trustees vice president; and Kathy Green, La Porte ISD Board of Trustees member. Photo credit: Jeannie Peng-Armao, San Jacinto College marketing department.
La Porte community members received a glimpse of the new La Porte Independent School District (LPISD) San Jacinto College Center for dual enrollment high school students during an open house on Thursday, March 31, 2011. The Center, located at 732 South Broadway in La Porte, was once the LPISD administration building and is now home to six classrooms and an office. San Jacinto College (SJC) and La Porte ISD partnered together to customize the dual credit curriculum, which includes instruction by SJC faculty and support from the La Porte center coordinator Judy Flynn. Lloyd W. Graham, La Porte ISD superintendent of schools, said the Center paves the way for first-time college students by encouraging them to pursue their journey in higher education. “The opportunity to attend classes in an authentic college environment while still in high school helps demystify the experience and alleviate any apprehension they may feel with regard to making this transition,” said Graham. “It is our hope that this low-risk exposure to higher-level instruction will yield a lifetime of return for our students.” COMPASS® or TAKS test scores are evaluated to determine if a student is eligible for dual credit status. Once accepted, a student’s tuition and books are paid for by La Porte ISD. Approximately 200 students have already enrolled through SJC at La Porte High School (LPHS). Scheduling for LPHS dual credit senior students remain similar to what is already in place at their school, complete with opportunities to fully participate in extracurricular activities. “We are delighted to partner with LPISD and work to build a college going community in La Porte,” said Dr. Neil Matkin, president of the San Jacinto College Central campus. The La Porte dual enrollment program through SJC will expand in Fall 2011 to include qualified juniors who will take history and psychology or sociology dual credit courses.
The Clear Creek Independent School District is proud to announce Yolanda Jones is the new principal of G. W. Robinson Elementary School. She has been with CCISD for 12 years. For the past 6 years
be a tremendous addition to the Robinson team,” said Superintendent Greg Smith, “I have no doubt she will be greatly missed at Landolt Elementary. I would also like to thank Robinson’s Assistant Principal Donna Hartness and temporary Principal Carole Streiff for their leadership during this transition.” The former principal of the exemplary campus, Jim Stephens, retired in December with more than 40 years of service with CCISD. A search is now underway to find a replacement for Jones at Landolt Elementary.
LPISD District Calendar 4/7/11 to 4/13/2011
Art Students Honored At Houston Rodeo Awards Ceremony Clear Creek ISD once again received the Super Show Hall of Fame award presented to school districts that score highest in cooperative participation in the Houston Rodeo School Art Program. School districts are judged on how well the rules and regulations are followed, the overall quality of the district show, display and set up of the artwork, enthusiasm for the program, return of all required forms, timely pick up of student artwork, and attendance by a responsible representative of the school district at Open Houses. The following students received awards at the recent Houston Rodeo School Art award ceremony.
San Jacinto College Cancels Board Of Trustees Election
4/7/2011 College Park Elementary - PaPa John’s Pizza Night La Porte Elementary - Kindergarten & 5th Grade Graduation Pictures Jennie Reid Elementary - 5th Grade Bay Smart field trip Rizzuto Elementary - Chili’s Give Back Night LPJH & LXJH - Boys Tennis District Tournament - Deer Park North Campus LPJH & LXJH - Girls Tennis District Tournament - LPHS LPHS - Tennis @ District Tournament LPHS - Varsity Boys Track - Texas Relays - Select Athletes LPHS - NHS Meeting - 6:50 AM - Lecture Hall LPHS - Orienteering/Adventure Racing Practice - 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM LPHS - Project Graduation meeting - 6:00 PM - Student Center LPHS - Soccer Booster Club Meeting - 6:30 PM - Cafeteria 4/8/2011 Bayshore Elementary - Perfect Attendance Popcorn Celebration - 2:00 PM Jennie Reid Elementary - Awards Assembly - 8:15 AM - 4th Grade; 9:15 AM 5th Grade LPJH & LXJH - Boys Tennis District Tournament - Deer Park North Campus LPJH & LXJH - Girls Tennis District Tournament – LPHS LPHS - Varsity Boys Track - Texas Relays - Select Athletes LPHS - UIL Area One Act Play Competition - 4:00 PM - Event begins at 4 PM. LPHS will be the last to perform at approximately 9 PM. Admission is $10 - San Jacinto College Central LPHS - Baseball vs. Baytown Sterling - 4:30 PM - Sophomore; 7 PM - JV LPHS - Girls Softball @ Channelview - 5:00 PM - JV; - 6:45 pm Varsity LPHS - Sophomore Girls Softball @ Deer Park - 6:00 PM
The San Jacinto Community College District will cancel its election for three Board of Trustees positions originally scheduled for Saturday, May 14, 2011, due to each position being unopposed. Board of Trustees Positions 1, 2, and 7 were to be filled in the May election. The candidates who filed for those positions will be sworn in at the June board meeting. Mr. Brad Hance, 64, will fill Position 1 for a six-year term. A resident of Pasadena, Texas, he is president and CEO of MECO Inc. He has served on the Board of Directors for the San Jacinto College Foundation for four years, and currently holds the office of chairman of the board. Mr. Ben Meador, who has opted not to seek re-election, currently holds position 1. Dr. Ruede Wheeler, 76, currently holds Position 2 on the San Jacinto College Board of Trustees. He resides in La Porte, Texas, and is a retired dentist. He was first elected to the College board in 1986, and will fill Position 2 for another six years. Mr. Keith Sinor, 42, will fill Position 7. A resident of Deer Park, Texas, he is co-owner of Sinor Engine Company, Inc., and a former San Jacinto College student. Position 7 is a four-year unexpired term that was vacated in December 2010 upon the retirement of longtime board member Mr. C. Wayne Slovacek. Elections for the San Jacinto College Board of Trustees occur every two years, in odd numbered years. The Board is elected in numbered at-large positions, 1 through 7.
James F. Bay Elementary PTA And Lyondell Bassel Join Forces Volunteers To Begin First Phase Construction of Outdoor Classroom and Nature Center
LPHS - Varsity Baseball @ Baytown Sterling - 7:00 PM
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On Saturday, April 9 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, members of James F. Bay Elementary PTA will join forces with employees from Lyon4/9/2011 dell Bassel to break ground on the first phase of construction for the College Park Elementary - Family Fun Run - 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM school’s outdoor classroom and nature center. LPJH & LXJH - Boys Tennis District Tournament - Deer Park North Lyondell Bassel has generously donated $2500.00 toward materials Campus and employee volunteers as part of their Global Care Day. Bay PTA members, teachers, parents, and students will be on-site to help build LPHS - Varsity Boys Track - Texas Relays - Select Athletes the garden beds for each grade level, storage shed, a handicap accessible crushed granite walkway, compost and irrigation. The kids will 4/11/2011 build bird houses, hummingbird feeders, plant markers and signs. Bayshore Elementary - Tutoring - 3:10 PM - 4:30 PM Bay PTA board member, Karen Rompot, is currently seeking donaBayshore Elementary - Art After School - 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM tions of materials, funding, and volunteers to help see the project to Bayshore Elementary - Spanish Club - 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM completion. For more information on how you can help Bay Elementary students build their Outdoor Classroom and Nature Center, please LPHS - Sophomore Girls Softball vs. Pearland - 6:00 PM contact Karen Rompot at krompot@baypta.org. LPHS - Student Council (STUCO) Meeting - 6:00 PM - Lecture Hall LXJH - March of Dimes Fund Drive LXJH - High School Counselors presentation to 8th Grade - 9:15 AM 10:00 AM
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4/12/2011 Heritage Elementary - Kindergarten PLC Day - modified schedule LPJH - Rock Solid - Christ on Campus - 7:45 AM - Choir Room LXJH CPOC Meeting - 4:00 PM LPHS - Baseball vs. North Shore 4:30 PM - Sophomore; 7 PM - JV LPHS - Chatos Booster Club Meeting - 6:30 PM - Lecture Hall LPHS - Girls Softball @ Sterling - 5:00 PM - JV; - 6:45 pm Varsity LPHS - Varsity Baseball @ North Shore - 7:00 PM LPHS - Varsity Boys Track - District Meet - North Shore School Board Meeting - 7:00 PM - LPISD Admin Bldg. Board Room 4/13/2011 Bayshore Elementary - Art After School - 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM Bayshore Elementary - Chess Club - 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM Bayshore Elementary - Drama Club - 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
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www.laportevision.com
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College Park Elementary - Pre-K field trip to Bayou Wildlife Park College Park Elementary - Robotics Club - 3:10 PM - 4:30 PM Science Lab Heritage Elementary - PTO Gringo’s Night Jennie Reid Elementary - CPOC meeting - 3:15 PM Rizzuto Elementary - JSC Savings Day LPHS - Varsity Boys Track - District Meet - North Shore LPHS - Choir performs national anthem at Houston Astros Game 7:05 PM - Game start time - National anthem will be performed immediately prior to start of game - Minute Maid Park LPHS - Mr. All That - 7:00 PM - Sonja Angelo Theater
Salon LaLa Rouge Rouge Salon
Lisa K. Cook: Owner/Master Stylist 281.474.2528 • 902 Hardesty • Old Seabrook
Hair, Nail, Massage & Facials
Let me design you a new look for Spring!
-
CCISD Kindergarten Round Up Begins In May Kindergarten in the Clear Creek Independent School District is a full-day program and all students attend from 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. All kindergarten students will be enrolled on their home campus during “Kindergarten Roundup” in May. To enroll their child, parents will need to bring the following: • Two Proofs of Residency in the Clear Creek Independent School District: (Current Deed to a house in the name of the Adult seeking to enroll a child, or Current mortgage or payment book, Signed apartment lease in the name of the adult seeking to enroll a child, AND A copy of a current electric bill, or Water utility bill for the address identified.) • An official birth certificate. You may now request one from the state online at the following website: https://txapps.texas.gov/tolapp/ovra/index.htm • The student’s social security card. • Proof of current immunizations. For more information, please call 281-284-0114 or email PK@ ccisd.net. Kindergarten Round Up dates and times for each campus are below.
THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 7
Baytown Chapter of the American Diabetes Association to Host Camp Lotta Bright Hope, Retreat for Children with Diabetes The 2011 Camp Lotta Bright Hope, a weekend retreat for children ages 7 to 12 who have been diagnosed with diabetes, will be held April 30th – May 1st. The camp was established in 1959 by local resident and founder of the Baytown American Diabetes Association Ernestine Bright. Mrs. Bright started the camp after both of her sons were diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Originally the camp was for children with type 1 diabetes; in recent years due to the increase in type 2 diabetes in children the camp is open to children with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The camp provides activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, a campfire, team sports, canoeing and horseback riding. The camp is two days and volunteers and campers stay in cabins. Diabetes staff members, from San Jacinto Methodist Hospital, St. Joseph Medical Center, Texas Children’s Hospital® along with volunteers from other medical facilities, participate in a planning committee for the camp, which is held in May, and support the diabetes management/medical needs for the campers during their stay. “For many campers they’ve never been able to stay away from home before. Camp Lotta Bright Hope allows children with diabetes to be independent from their families for a weekend. In addition it gives those families/parents peace of mind while their child is away. The Diabetes Department staff has a wonderful time and we look forward to it every year,” says Kathy Husband, Director Education and Diabetes Self-Management Program San Jacinto Methodist Hospital. For more information on Camp Lotta Bright Hope call San Jacinto Methodist Hospital SelfManagement Diabetes Program at 281-420-8525. Applications are being issued now.
Fischers Hardware
Spring Is Here!
and we have what you need for a beautiful garden! We have a large selection of plants and flowers for your spring garden. Come in and let us recommend something to make your garden beautiful!
Fischers Truly “Does It Best” 1012 S. Broadway • La Porte • TX • 77571
(281) 470-0171
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Mon.-Fri • 7:30 to 7 Sat. • 8 to 6 Sun. • 9 to 5
LOCAL SERVICE DIRECTORY
If you’re looking for good service, please visit these local businesses!
Paul U. Lee
Sales, Service & Installation Commercial / Residential
Specializing in
&
Boats & RV’s Se Habla Espanol
Funeral Home
If your contract is up or you have a new HDTV and need an update reciever call for a free quote and survey
Rick
281-773-4822
In Business Over 20 Years
Kitchen • Bath • Closets • Countertops • Floors 3130 E. Nasa Parkway Seabrook. TX 77586
Family Owned & Operated
281-471-0123 www.paululee.com
Call Now! 281.326.1902
Sign up for updates
Show Room: Monday-Friday 10a.m.-7p.m. • Appointments: Sat. 9a.m. -2p.m.
CLASSIFIED ADS
CLASSIFIED DISPLAY RATE...........................................$8.50 p.c.i. (Classifieds display ads can contain a border and bolded letters) CLASSIFIED LINER ADS First 20 Words (initial insertion)......................................................$7.50 First 20 Words (subsequent insertions)............................................$4.50 Additional Words.................................................................10 cents each
Classified deadlines are 10 a.m. each Monday SERVICES
REAL ESTATE
ALL CLEAN LAUNDRY
HOMES
1109 S. BROADWAY
LA PORTE WASHATERIA DROP OFF SERVICE AVAILABLE OPEN DAILY 5AM - 9PM “Come Clean With Us”
For Sale or Lease to Own Lovely 4-2.5 home w/pool New paint & carpet 2500 sq ft Clear lake Forest Sub
$1800 month + deposit. $225,000 to purchase.
Bayshore Humble Construction
Call 832 303-4880
Building, Remodeling & Repairs Handicap tile, shower, bath with tile seats. Clean or re-grout tile walls & floor. New stainless steel grab bars installed.
LOTS & ACREAGE
Ray Garcia
281-471-4947 HELP WANTED COMPANY DRIVERS! REGIONAL Southwest up to .36¢ per mile. Class ACDL. 1 year OTR required. Steady freight, exceptional benefits. Apply today! 1-888-440-2465 or www. nationalcarriers.com DRIVERS- 100% Tuition paid CDL training! No credit check, no experience required. Trainers earn 49¢/mile. 1-888-417-7564, CRST EXPEDITED, www. JoinCRST.com DRIVER- DAILY OR weekly pay. Single source dispatch, No tractor older than 3 years Safety bonuses paid quarterly. CDL-A, 3 months recent OTR experience. 1-800-414-9569, www.driveknight.com
Lot For Sale
75 x 110 On The 16th Green - Wildwood Resort. 18 Hole Golf Course, 360 Acre Lake, 24 Hour Security.
$8,000
281-793-7961
Sell Your Home or Find A New One !
The
Bay Area Observer Classifieds! 281-907-3140 or email us at
editor@bayareaobserver.com
APARTMENTS
Victoria Lake
APARTMENTS
281-333-2510 $199.00
Total Move In!*
$500 - Studio All Bills Paid*
$555 - One bdrm All Bills Paid*
www.victorialakenasa.com (restrictions apply)
WINDSAIL BAY
APARTMENTS 3141 S. BROADWAY
GARAGE SALES
Garage Having A Garage & Estate Sale? Sale 10226 Carlow Lane Fairmont Park Furniture, jewelry, household items & more
April 15th 8am - 4pm
Advertise It
The Bay Area Observer 281-907-3140
LA PORTE
281-471-3061 ONE BEDROOM ONE BATH TWO BEDROOM 11/2 BATH
FOR SALE
Cemetary Lot Grandview Cemertary Deer Park/La Porte
$3000 Call
281-471-4577 or 281-414-2895
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281-907-3140
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PAGE 8
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, APRIL 7, 2011
CUISINE
Texas Wine Basics
Texas Red Varietals
salsa and paella.
Malbec
Riesling
Complex, tannin-laden red with lush flavors of plums, berries and spice. Pair with beef dishes, turkey and hearty stews.
Crisp, unobtrusive white accented by rich, fruit flavors and a floral bouquet. Pair with Indian cuisine, Greek salad and Jamaican pork.
Tempranillo
Sauvignon Blanc
Lush, smoky red with a hint of vanilla and rich, dark fruits. Pair with pizza, cabrito and tamales.
Silky smooth white with floral, grassy and delicate herbal properties. Pair with fish, shrimp, cream soups and veggies.
Syrah Smokey red with soft tannins, toasted oak, berries and plums. Pair with beef stew, grilled meats, pizza and wild game.
Chenin Blanc Delicate, floral white with a dry, wellbalanced finish. Pair with cheese crepes, quiche and Waldorf salad.
Sangiovese Smooth-textured red varietal spiced with wild raspberries and licorice. Pair with beef, pork, pasta dishes and cheese.
Orange Muscat
Texas White Varietals
Fruity, sweet white with notes of gooseberry and orange peel. Pair with ice cream, dark chocolate and smoked salmon.
Chardonnay
Muscat Blanc
Clean, crisp, well-balanced white with big flavors of citrus and oak. Pair oakaged with light beef with cream sauces or smoked chicken; unoaked with lobster and veal.
Light, fragrant white accented by coriander, peach and citrus flavors. Pair with fish, pasta, raw vegetables and soups.
Blanc du Bois
Fresh, fruity white retaining the zesty flavors of the grape. Pair with chocolate, fresh fruit, fish and pasta.
Zinfandel Full-bodied, bold and fruity red bursting with berries and spice. Pair with BBQ, red pasta sauce and pizza.
Merlot Medium-to-full bodied red with a subtle, herbaceous flavor and soft tannins. Pair with meatloaf, grilled tuna and eggplant parmesan.
Cabernet Sauvignon Complex, hearty red with bold flavors of cherry, cedar and chocolate. Pair with rack of lamb, T-bone steak and wild game.
Light, fresh-finished white with notes of grapefruit and apples. Pair with fish with lemon butter sauce, pasta Alfredo and pineapple chicken.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Grigio
Rich, smooth red with delicate notes of black cherries and cloves. Pair with duck, salmon and turkey.
Lenoir
FYI
Deep, dark red with notes of raspberry, cinnamon, cherry-chocolate, clove and brown sugar. Pair with raspberries and chocolate, as well as duck, venison and brisket.
Creamy, slightly perfumed white with rich color and a fresh palate. Pair with TexMex, gulf fried shrimp and oysters.
Viognier Intense, slightly spicy white with notes of floral, peach and apricot. Pair with lettuce wraps (Chinese), white fish with mango
Muscat Canelli
Gewurtztraminer Full-bodied, pungent white characterized by fruity, nutty flavors. Pair with BBQ, sushi and blackened fish.
Semillon Bold and oaky, this sweet white carries hints of honey and figs. Pair with fried catfish, olive tapenade and fried chicken, as well as blue cheese or crème brûlèe. For more Texas Wine Basics, go to www. gotexanwine.org
Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio go great with crawfish. When you pick up your boiled crawfish at the Crawfish Drive-In, stop by your favorite beverage store and make your crawfish experience extra special!
Clear Lake Tea Party Friday, April 15, 2011
3rd Annual Tax Day Tea Party in the Park The Job is not over! Looking to 2012! Don’t forget your lawnchair
Speakers:
Ted Cruz
US Texas Senate Candidate 2010
Paul Bettencourt The Tax Man
Jack Morman
Harris County Commissioner Pct. 2 Location: Clear Lake Park 5001 Nasa Pkwy., Seabrook, TX.
Date/Time: Friday, April 15, 2011 at 6:00 PM E-Mail: info@clearlaketeaparty.com Web: www.ClearLakeTeaParty.com
P.J. Mock, Jr. M.D. Family Medicine • American Board of Family Medicine
1200 Highway 146, Suite 250 La Porte, Texas 77571 E-mail: pjmlptx@aol.com
Phone: (281) 471-0130 Fax: (281) 867-9241
Uphill’s Liquor “Come To Uphill’s For Your Spirit”
1021-A S. Broadway • La Porte
281-471-2132
“We Bring The Shop To You” AUTO, TRUCK & TRAILER
AZ INDUSTRIES 24 HOUR SERVICE
MOBILE MECHANIC SERVICE James G. Kopeck
291-991-7572 • 832-657-9383 www.azinductriesllc.com