The Bay Area Observer Community News For The Galveston Bay Area VOLUME 2, NO. 24
By The Bay Seabrook: Wednesday Night Sailboat Racing on Clear Lake Every Wednesday Every Wednesday evening from April until October, professional and amateur sailors get together for a friendly sailboat race on the waters of Clear Lake, twenty minutes south of Houston and home of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. These races were created with the public in mind, and the course has been set where the race can be enjoyed by spectators from some of the restaurants around the lake. Everyone is invited to come and watch.The races are rarely cancelled due to bad weather. In the previous twelve years, the races have been cancelled only about five times due to bad weather. The atmosphere just seems to get its act together as the sun goes down! Come on out and join us! The races start promptly at 6:15 PM and finish before sunset. Come and join us for an evening of fun and relaxation. There’s always some commentary on the action, and if you wish to participate, you’re welcome to sign up on our crew list. We always have boats looking for crew! If you own a boat and would like to participate in these races, read the race instructions, then come out and join the fun. You can sign up the day of the races by filling out an entry form. Time: 6:30 pm Venue Name: Villa Capri Italian Restaurant Location: 3713 Nasa Parkway, Seabrook, TX 77586 Admission Cost: Phone: 281-468-6909 Web: www.clearlakeracing.com
Seaside Garden Club Monthly Meeting Carother’s Coastal Gardens in Seabrook 3rd Weds. - 2:30 pm Your thumb doesn’t need to be green to come to Seaside Garden Club’s monthly meeting on the third Wednesday of every month at 12:30 pm at the beautiful new Carother’s Coastal Gardens Wedding and Event location, 502 Pine Gully Rd in Seabrook. If you want to help beautify Seabrook, meet new people, and learn new things, then come check us out. The next meeting is May 18th at 12:30. We are excited about hosting David Cater, an actual Texas bamboo farmer and story teller who will be presenting a program on growing bamboo and vegetables and more. This is sure to be a fun experience for all. For more information call D. Nelson 281-474-4825 or S. Thompson 281-291-0472
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
Juneteenth Celebration Has Its Beginnings In Galveston, The Birthplace Of Freedom In Texas By Rebecca Collins editor@bayareaobserver.com
than 200,000 slaves lived in the colonies.
On June 10th, 1865, at the end of the Civil War, Union General Gordon Granger and 2,000 federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas. Granger, who was given command of the Department of Texas by Gen. Philip H. Sheridan, commander of the Military Division of the Southwest arrived in Galveston on June 19th. He officially declared that the institution of slavery was dead in the state of Texas, setting off joyful displays by Texas’ newly freed slaves. While standing on the balcony of Ashton Villa in Galveston, Granger read the contents of “General Order No. 3”: “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere”. Granger’s historic proclamation formed the basis for the annual “Juneteenth” festivities, which celebrate the end of slavery in Texas. Since that fateful day, large celebrations on June 19th began and continue to this day. In the early days, the celebration included a prayer service, speakers with inspirational messages, reading of the emancipation proclamation, sto-
1789 - Text of the U.S. Constitution is ratified. Although it never specifically mentions the institution of slavery, Congressional districts were apportioned by counting slaves as three-fifths of a person. 1793 - The Fugitive Slave Act makes it illegal to aid a runaway slave and mandated the return of slaves, regardless of which state they were in at the time of their discovery or capture. 1847 - Frederick Douglass launches the anti-slavery newspaper, The North Star. 1849 - Harriett Tubman helps slaves escape the South via the “Underground Railway.” 1859 - Radical abolitionist John Brown leads a failed revolt against slavery in Harpers Ferry, Virginia. Brown is executed. 1860 - Abraham Lincoln is elected the 16th president of the United States.
Ashton Villa, from whose front balcony General Gordon Granger read the Emancipation Proclamation on June 19, 1865. ries from former slaves, food, games, rodeos and dances. The celebration of June 19th as emancipation day spread from Texas to the neighboring states of Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma. It has also appeared in Alabama, Florida, and California as AfricanAmerican Texans migrated. In many parts of Texas, exslaves purchased land, or “emancipation grounds,” for the Juneteenth gatherings. Emancipation Park in Houston, purchased in 1872 is an example of “emancipation grounds”. Booker T. Wash-
ington Park in Mexia, and Emancipation park in East Austin are also emancipation grounds. On January 1, 1980 the Texas 66th Legislature, Regular Session passed House Bill no.1016 declaring June 19, “Emancipation Day in Texas. Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. In some areas it is celebrated for a day, a week or even a month marked with festivities, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings.
Hey Kids! Sign up today for Terrific Tuesdays – field trips for kids in Kindergarten through 5th grades – hosted by Bayshore Baptist Church. We will be going to Lil’ Jacks, Old McDonald’s Farm, Sylvan Beach and Palm Beach at Moody Gardens. Field trips take place every Tuesday in June. The cost is $32 for all four trips! For more information, call the church office at 281-471-0332 or email us at vrigsby@bayshorebc.org
Its VBS Time Again Creekmont Baptist Church
June 13th-17th 6:30pm-8:30pm
Home town Nazareth. Where Jesus was a kid. Creekmont Baptist Church, 401 Myrtle Creek, La Porte, 281-470-1176. Ages: 4 yrs -6th grade. Times: 6:30pm-
INDEX
Community..........................2 Crossword............................2 Juneteenth...........................3 Local News..........................4 LPISD Newsletter............5-8 Education............................9 Around Town.....................10 Classifieds..........................11 In The Garden..................12 Cuisine...............................12
Dottie Kaminski Celebrates With Her Grandchildren Holland Kaminski, David Blue, Savannah Kaminski, Victorica Kaminski, And Kyle Kaminski After an extended election season for La Porte residents, Saturday’s run-off between long time residents Rick Guzman and Dottie Kaminski has come to an end. In a very close race the unofficial votes are showing that Dottie Kaminski has won over Rick Guzman by five votes for City Council Position At Large “B”. The seat is currently held by John Black. Kaminiski told supporters in a letter to the editor, “As your newly elected councilperson to the City of La Porte, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for voting in the May regular election and June run-off election. I would also like to congratulate Mr. Rick Guzman for his efforts during this campaign”. Kaminski will be sworn in after the votes are canvassed and made official during the city council meeting set for June 20th at 6:00p.m.
Smart Shoppers Browse In Santa Fe... But Buy It At The World Famous The
CROW’S NEST ART GALLERY 230 Jefferson La Porte, Texas 77571
281-471-4371
1619 - The first 20 black indentured servants arrive at Jamestown, Virginia. 1769 - In the year of the Declaration of Independence, more
1865 - The Confederate armies surrender. The Civil War ends. 1865 - In June, Union Major General Gordon Granger issues General Order #3, instructing that “all slaves are free.” The 13th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States is ratified, banning slavery forever. For a list of Juneteenth celebrations in La Porte and Galveston see page 3.
Alcohol Stings
Bayshore Baptist Church
...
Juneteenth History Timeline
1863 - President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared free all slaves residing in territory in rebellion against the federal government
LPPD Runs A Pair Of Kaminiski Wins La Porte City Council Position At Large “B” Seat Successful Tobacco And
Terrific Tuesdays Every Tuesday In June
Continued on page 2
Juneteenth is a time for reflection and rememberence of past generations, a celebration of the future and all of its possibilities. It’s a time to recognize and appreciate all of the great accomplishments and contributions to this country made by African-American people throughout our history.
1861 - Southern states secede from the Union, sparking the American Civil War.
Underage Tobacco and Alcohol consumption are troublesome events in any community. The detrimental effect such substances have on the physiological and psychological development of adolescents is vast and has been well-supported though scientific study. In an effort to combat these effects locally, the La Porte Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit recently engaged in two separate operations designed to target the illegal sale of Alcohol and Tobacco to minors. On Tuesday May 31, members of the Street Crimes Unit conducted a Tobacco sting within the City of La Porte where Unit members visited a total of thirty-eight (38) locations in which tobacco products were sold. Of these locations, the clerks at three (3) of the businesses were cited for the sale of tobacco to a minor. The businesses in question are: La Porte Tobacco Shop (913-A South Broadway), Walgreens #3286 (9705 Spencer Highway) and Mr. Mercury (10404-A Spencer Highway). The Sale of Tobacco to a Minor is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500. On Thursday June 9, members of the Street Crimes Unit also conducted an Alcohol sting within the City where Unit members visited a total of eighteen (18) locations in which alcohol products were sold. Of these locations, charges are being filed against the clerks at three (3) of the businesses for selling alcohol to a minor. The businesses in question are: La Porte Shell (111 North 10th), Jack’s Super Mart (3124 South Broadway) and Port Auto Truck Stop (904 West Barbours-Cut). Specific information and identifiers for these three clerks was obtained by the Unit and charges are scheduled to be filed through the Harris County District Attorney’s Office for liquor violations. The Sale of Alcohol to a Minor is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $4000 and the possibility of up to 1 year in jail. In addition to involvement of the District Attorney’s Office, the details for these violations will also be sent to the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission for review. La Porte’s Street Crimes Unit conducts such stings periodically in order to verify local distributor’s compliance with Federal, State, and Local laws governing the sale of tobacco and alcohol to minors. The stings are not designed to deceive the persons that are in care, custody and control of the establishment. In fact, minors who assist the Unit in their enforcement efforts are specifically directed to provide appropriate identification when requested by sales clerks, and to truthfully answer questioned posed to them Furthermore, all transactions conducted for each sting listed were witnessed by at least one undercover officer. The La Porte Police Department stresses that the goal of such stings is to proactively identify those persons engaging in the illegal sale of such products to minors within the community. If you have any information which you feel may be of assistance to the Street Crimes Unit or if you require the services of a patrol officer to immediately address such matters, please do not hesitate to contact La Porte Police at 281-471-2141.
ABC COMPUTER SERVICES - 24 X 7 Business-Residential PC-Laptop-Server Networks - Xbox-TV Repairs-Security Camera Home Theater Installs
Onsite or In-House - 2 Locations
La Porte - 281-867-0429 Webster - 713-893-8920
Pasadena Plumbing Services, Inc. “For All Your Plumbing Needs”
281-487-4688
PAGE 2
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
COMMUNITY Seabrook City Pool Hours And Fees
La Porte Blue Santa Program To Hold Big Parking Lot Sale June 25
NEW -2011 City Pool: The City Pool will open on Tuesday, June 7 and the last day it will be open is Saturday, August 20. New Pool Hours: Tuesday -Thursday, 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. The City Pool will not be open July 4th.
The LaPorte Police Department and the La Porte Citizens Alumni Association are having a Garage Sale on Saturday June 25, 2011 from 8 am to 3pm. This is a good chance to clean out the garage/closet and donate items for a good cause. Items can be delivered to the Police Department Parking Lot at 3001 North 23rd street. Someone will be there on Friday 24th from 9am to 3pm to collect items you would like to donate. All monies will be used to help purchase toys, and distribute through our Blue Santa Program for the
IMPORTANT! Children 2 years and under must wear elastic type pants, such as Little SwimmersTM, to protect against unsanitary accidents happening in the pool. 2011 Swimming Pool Fee Schedule: Individual Season Pool Pass is $25 residents; $150 for non-residents. Season Pass may be purchased at City Hall, second floor at the Utility Department counter. City Pool Daily Gate Admission: • Residents under 18 years of age, $2.00 • Residents 18-64 years of age, $4.00 • Non-residents under the age of 18 years, $6.00 • Non-residents 18-64 years of age, $8.00 • Day Care Gate Admission: Seabrook daycare businesses, $1.00 per student per day. Non-Seabrook daycare businesses, $3.00 per student per day. • Seabrook Swim Team hourly rate for use of pool during normal hours of operation, $10.00 per hour for swim times, meets or practice.
La Porte Police Department 3001 North 23rd St. La Porte Texas 77571 June 25, 2011 Saturday 8am to 3pm
Fees listed are valid until Oct. 1, 2011.
Evelyn Meador Library Grand Opening Save the date! The beautiful new Evelyn Meador Branch Library will open on Tuesday, June 28th at 10:00 AM. Stop by and take a tour of the new facility or check out some of the new library materials. The Friends of the Evelyn Meador Library will sponsor entertainment and activities for all ages following the opening ceremony hosted by Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Jack Morman. For more information, please call 713-749-9000.
Tina Montana Benefit Concert and Fundraiser
We are reaching out to you today to request your participation in the Tina Montana Benefit Concert and Fundraiser. Our beautiful friend Tina was killed early Saturday morning (06/11/11) in a tragic car accident while riding as a passenger in a car, getting a ride home. Tina has left behind 4 beautiful children, Zane (19), Cerese (17), Greg (14) and Alana (11). Tina was a single mom and has no immediate family nearby, so we, her friends and co-workers, have taken it upon ourselves to make sure these kids will be well taken care of now and into the future. A BIG event is planned for this Sunday, June 19th at the Endeavor Marina in Seabrook, TX from 11am – 7pm. We have musicians and bands lined up to play all day and will be selling barbeque plates and maybe even have a few surprises. In addition, we will have a silent and live auction, and that is where you come in. We were hoping that you might be willing to donate something for the auction, such as a product, service or gift certificate. Or, if you could assist in any other way, we are open to any and all help, including volunteers to set up the event, serve the food, clean up the room, monitor the auction, etc. If this sounds like something you would be able to do, please let me know as soon as possible. I can be reached either by e-mail (alenealbright@att.net) or by phone (281-222-1663/cell)
Big Parking Lot Sale
Benefit for our Blue Santa Program to help make sure all children of La Porte will enjoy Christmas
Bay Area Bluegrass Association Hosts Weekend of Fire on the Strings The Bay Area Bluegrass Association will be hosting the Fire on the Strings Bluegrass Music Festival on Friday, July 15 through Saturday, July 16 at South Shore Harbour Resort in League City, Tx. The two-day music festival will include prominent bluegrass musicians such as Charlie Sizemore, Kenny and Amanda Smith, The Chapmans, The Lonestar Bluegrass Band and more. Texas State Championship contests including the Flat Pickin’ Guitar & Banjo contest will be held as well as the Junior Bluegrass Show. Workshops will be held for beginners and children on Friday while instrument-specific workshops will be held throughout Saturday. In addition, jam sessions will be available for musicians. Event organizers encourage families and friends to enjoy both days of the event as well as the surrounding area’s entertainment including Space Center Houston, Kemah Boardwalk, golf, fishing, shopping, dining and more. “Our festival features something for everybody: young and less young, traditional and contemporary,” said Judy Sturgeon, Bay Area Bluegrass Association. “Bring your friends and family, stay the weekend, and plan on having a great time with wonderful folks and excellent Bluegrass music!” “We’re thrilled to have an active organization like the Bay Area Blue Grass Association which brings unique events such as this one to the region,” stated Pam Summers, President of the Bay Area Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Events like Fire on the Strings bring another demographic to the area to enjoy everything Bay Area Houston has to offer.” The Bay Area Bluegrass Association was organized in 1986 to preserve, encourage and promote Bluegrass and Bluegrass Gospel music as an American art form. Performances are held monthly on the third Saturday of each month in League City at the Johnny Arolfo Civic Center. For more information about this exciting event and the Bay Area Bluegrass Association, visit www.bayareabluegrass.org. Tickets for the event can be purchased online or at the door.
Sundays in Nature Series at Armand Bayou Nature Center Join us at Armand Bayou Nature Center on June 19th from 1pm – 3pm. Our “Sundays in Nature” series, “Life in the Prairie” will feature a traveling Prairie Exhibit, an interpretive hay ride (weather permitting) and insect sweep netting and identification. Admission to Sundays in Nature is $4 for adults and $2 for children 4-12 and seniors 60 and older; no cost for members. We’re located at 8500 Bay Area Blvd. (intersection of Bay Area Blvd & Red Bluff Rd), Pasadena ,TX 77507. For more information, phone 281-474-2551 or visit our website at abnc.org. Sundays in Nature is sponsored by Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. Registration for ECO-CAMP is in full swing. Let your kids experience the outdoors during our week long summer day camp for children ages 4-13. For details visit our website at abnc.org or call 281 474 2551.
Thank you for your consideration.
Alene Albright
Tina Montana Benefit Concert and Fundraiser Sunday, June 19, 2010 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Admiral’s Ballroom Endeavour Marina, Seabrook, TX To cover immediate expenses and help fund her children’s future.
FLOOD
Insurance! Need an agent?
Would you like to talk to someone who can explain your options and help you get an elevation certificate? Let’s see if your premium can be reduced?
Call us today!
Cristina Ramirez accepts a bonus and plaque of recognition for her hard work and dedication. Pictured are Karen, Anita, Cristina and Zuleica
Congratulations
Cristina Ramirez! Colonial House of Sandwiches
Employee of the Year Colonial House of Sandwiches #3 1125 S. Broadway La Porte, Texas 77571
281-470-8396 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 mkdsterling@yahoo.com
Sales Representative..............................Beverly Lawrence 281-793-7961 • blawrence506@msn.com
Sales Representative...................................Charlotte Horn 281-507-8257 • charlottehorn53@yahoo.com
Beth Brady Insurance Agency
281-471-5433
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
By The Bay
Continued from page 1
8:30pm. June 13th-17th. Come join us to see where Jesus grew up, play bible games, and create fun crafts.
Vacation Bible School Bayshore Baptist Church
July 25-29 - Noon to 3 All children, ages 4 through 5th grade, are invited to join us at Bayshore Baptist Church July 25-29 from noon to 3:00 pm for VBS 2011, the Big Apple Adventure. There will be inspiring Bible stories, challenging crafts, exciting music, yummy snow cones, & thrilling recreation. A lunch will be served before VBS at 11:30 am every day for registered VBS kids. Reservations for lunch MUST be made by July 18. Cost for lunch is $5 per child for the entire week. All other VBS activities are free. Sign up online today at www. bayshorebc.org or contact the church office at 281-471-0332 for more information. We hope to see your kids at the Big Apple Adventure: Where Faith and Life Connect!
“Let’s Talk! Webster 5:45 p.m. On Monday, June 20, 2011, Monica Cornetti, MS EDE will present “Let’s Talk!–The Secret of Powerful Communication Skills” at the next meeting of the Clear Lake/NASA chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals. Installation of the chapter’s new officers will follow. 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 by June 16th. For reservations and more information on this chapter, please visit www. iaap-clnac.org or contact 281910-2297.
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 3
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATIONS
2011 Juneteenth Pageant Contestants
30th Annual Juneteenth Celebration 2011 Schedule of Events Hosted By: La Porte Community Civic Club Friday, June 17th, 2011
Meet and Mingle (6pm-8pm) • Meet our pageant contestants Location: Jenny Riley Civic Center (North 4th Street) Contact Nakia Moore for more details at 832-605-3898
Old School Baseball Game (6pm-8pm)
Tiana Harris
Taelor Walker
Danielle Sowell
• Everyone is welcomed Location: Deotis Gay Softball Field (North 4th Street) Contact Nicole Wells for more details at 832-722-0739
Kadedra Wooley
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Morning Coffee (8am-9:30pm) Location: 5 Points Town Plaza Park on Broadway and Main
Juneteenth Parade (10am-12pm)
Location: Starting at La Porte Elementary and finishing at North 8th Street
Picnic Lunch (12pm – Until)
Location: Jenny Riley Civic Center and Park (North 4th Street)
Shakeira Woods
Monique Scott
Shareka Woods
Juneteenth Pageant (12:30pm – 3:30pm)
Connie Lindsay
• Little Mr. And Miss Juneteenth • Jr. Miss Juneteenth • Miss Juneteenth Location: Deotis Gay Softball Field (North 4th Street)
(Last Years Winner)
Step Rideau & the Zydeco Outlaws & Texas Johnny Boy To Play 5 Points La Porte - June 18th 5 Points Town Plaza in La Porte will come alive with music after the Juneteenth parade and Pageant when Step Rideau and The Zydeco Outlaws will play take the stage from 3:30pm5:30pm with Texas Johnny Boy Blues and R&B playing from at 6:30pm-9:30pm. Stephen Joseph Rideau “Step” was born in 1966 in the little St. Landry Parish town of Lebeau, Louisiana. Surrounded by black Creole culture and zydeco music from his infancy, it wasn’t until relocating to Houston in the mid-1980’s that he began to play the accordion and eventually formed his own band. Today, Step Rideau is widely acknowledged on both sides of the Sabine River as one of the living masters of the instrument. He has also established himself, over two decades, the course of multiple recordings and festival appearances nationwide, as one of the most prolific and passionate zydeco recording artist, songwriters, and live performers across the globe. (courtesy of www.steprideau.com)
Concerts:
Sponsored by the City of La Porte (3:30pm-9:30pm) • Step Rideau and The Zydeco Outlaws (3:30pm-5:30pm) • Texas Johnny Boy Blues and R&B (6:30pm-9:30pm) Location: 5 Points Town Plaza Park on Broadway and Main Please come out and join us at 5 Points Town Plaza after the Juneteenth Parade and Pageant. There will be lots of food, vendor booths, and a fantastic car show during the wonderful music entertainment we have lined up. Contact Sherry Lowe for more details at 281-222-4432.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Sunday Service “Happy Father’s Day” (3pm-5pm) Location: Jenny Riley Civic Center (North 4th Street) Contact Charlie Perry for more details at 713-398-8782
Galveston Juneteenth National Holiday Observance National Juneteenth Holiday Campaign Returns To Galveston Rev. Ronald V. Myers, Sr., M.D. Urges Congress For LegislationTo Establish Juneteenth As A National Day Of Observance
Rev. Ronald V. Myers, Sr., M.D., Chairman National Juneteenth Holiday Campaign The 2011 GALVESTON JUNETEENTH National Holiday Observance will take place in the community where the Juneteenth Celebration began, in Galveston, Texas, on Saturday, June 18th, at the Rosenberg Library. National Juneteenth Jazz Artist, the Rev. Ronald V. Myers, Sr., M.D., Founder & Chairman of the National Juneteenth Holiday Campaign and the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation (NJOF), will be the keynote speaker and will perform on trumpet. Myers is urging congress to enact legislation to make Juneteenth Independence Day a National Day of Observance. In 1997, Juneteenth Independence Day was first officially recognized as America’s 2nd Independence Day by the U.S. Congress through the passage of Senate Joint Resolution 11, sponsored by then Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-MS), and U.S. House Joint Resolution 56, sponsored by Congressman J. C. Watt (D-OK). Similiar legislation has been passed by congress annually since 2006. “Now is the time for the U.S. Congress to pass legislation for signature by President Barack Obama to make Juneteenth Independence Day a National Day of Observance, like Flag Day or Patriot Day,” states Rev. Dr. Myers, also the Founder & Chairman of the National Association of Junetenth Jazz Presenters (NAJJP). “At this time, thirty-nine states, most recently
Nevada, along with the District of Columbia, recognize Juneteenth as state holiday or state holiday observance.” Juneteenth commemorates the day when Americans of African descent suffering from the tyranny of enslavement, in the last geographic area where slavery legally existed, learned of their freedom. This took place on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, when Union General Gordon Granger read General Order #3, announcing that “all slaves are free” by Proclamation of President Abraham Lincoln. The Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln on September 22, 1862, to take effect on January 1, 1863. It took over two and a half years for the news of freedom to travel to southwest Texas. Thousands of petitions have been forwarded to the White House urging President Obama to make Juneteenth a National Day of Observance and to establish a Presidential National Juneteenth Commission to provide advice to the president on how the annual observance of Juneteenth Independence Day can bring all Americans together with the goal of promoting greater understanding and racial healing. A similar petition drive was successful in getting the USPS to consider a “Juneteenth Flags of Freedom” postage stamp. “The official recognition of Juneteenth Independence Day and the end of enslavement by state governments and the U.S. Congress are very significant steps in bringing healing to America from the legacy of enslavement,” states Rev. Dr. Myers, also Founder & Chairman of the National Juneteenth Christian Leadership Council (NJCLC), the National Day Reconciliation & Healing From the Legacy of Enslavement and the annual WASHINGTON JUNETEENTH National Holiday Observance. “The National Day of Reconciliation and Healing From the Legacy of Enslavement takes place every year on the ‘3rd Friday in June’ and includes the National Juneteenth Black Holocaust ‘Maafa’ Memorial Service. The theme of the service is ‘A Time to Heal, A Time to Pray.’” We now observe the annual World Day of
Reconciliation and Healing From the Legacy of Enslavement on the “3rd Saturday In August”, August 20, 2011, in Richmond, VA. This commemorates the date the first slave ship, the White Lion, landed in Virginia at Old Point Comfort, today’s Fort Monroe, from the shores of West Africa. This occurred on the “latter end of August, 1619”, with the arrival of twenty Angolans, America’s first Middle Passage. The 2011 GALVESTON JUNETEENTH National Holiday Observance begins at 7:30am, on Saturday, June 18th, with a National Juneteenth Prayer Service followed by a National Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony at 8:00am
at the Rosenberg Library, located on 2310 Sealy Avenue, in Galveston, Texas. For directions call the library at 409-763-8864. For information on the National Juneteenth Holiday Campaign, the National Day of Reconciliation & Healing From the Legacy of Enslavement, the WASHINGTON JUNETEENTH National Holiday Observance and the National Association of Juneteenth Jazz Presenters (NAJJP), contact Rev. Ronald V. Myers, Sr., M.D. at 662-247-3364 or e-mail: JuneteenthDOC@yahoo.com or web site: www.NationalJuneteenth.com.
REAL ESTATE
1014 S. 2nd Street • La Porte
WINE SNACKS
BEER SODAS LOTTERY ENERGY DRINKS
TOBACCO PARTY EQUIPMENT
2301 Underwood Rd • La Porte, TX 77571
(713) 805-0504
Call about our free deliveries
PAGE 4
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
LOCAL NEWS EDITORIAL/OPINION Letters To The Editor many of you as possible to thank you in person for your support. If you have any concerns or questions, I am availAs your newly elected councilperson to the City of La Porte, I would like to take this opportunity to thank able on my cell phone (713) 417-2370 or by email at you for voting in the May regular election and June dottiekaminski@aol.com. run-off election. I would also like to congratulate Mr. Sincerely, Rick Guzman for his efforts during this campaign. I will be sworn in on Monday, June 20, at 5 p.m. in Dottie Kaminski the City Council Chamber. I would enjoy seeing as City of La Porte Council, At-Large Position B Dear La Porte Voters & Bay Area Observer Readers:
OBITUARIES Norma Jean Martin, known to her family and friends as Jean, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family on June, 9 2011. Jean was born on August 06, 1932 in Memphis, Tennessee and graduated Salutatorian from Sacred Heart School. Jean was a beautiful woman, always “dressed to the nines,” and loved to dance. She caught the eye of a dashing Carl Henry Martin, and they jitterbugged their way down the altar and into marriage in 1959. She spent the next 52 years of her life in La Porte as a giving wife, mother and friend to all that were blessed to have known her. She was also an avid sports fan and loved to play cards. Jean is reunited in death with her son Michael; her mother Marie Rehmert; a host of other relatives and friends; and her beloved dog and soulmate Brutus.
La Porte Police Encourage Residents To Look Out For The Safety Of Senior Citizens
Looking For A New
CHURCH HOME?
You are welcome at St. John’s Episcopal Church “The Beloved by the Bay” Worship Services
Bring or mention this ad and receive a free breakfast
SUNDAY 8:00 am Holy Eucharist Rite I • 9:00 am Breakfast 9:30 am Christian Education • 10:30 am Holy Eucharist Rite II 12:00 pm Coffee Hour and Fellowship WEDNESDAY 6:00 pm Healing Service with Holy Communion 6:45 pm Adult Bible Study and Youth Programs (K-5 & 6-12)
815 South Broadway • La Porte • 281-471-0383 www.stjohns-laporte.org
One of the most valuable resources in any society is the high-level of wisdom possessed by its longstanding members. Yet, as with any precious gift, such residents are typically a scarce resource and should be recognized and appreciated for their worth. With 6.8% of the City’s population being 65 years of age or older, the City of La Porte proves no exception to this rule. Therefore the La Porte Police Department reminds residents that all community members owe it to the elder population to care for their well-being. Undoubtedly, the needs of eldercitizens can vary greatly. While many seniors lead a highly-active lifestyle, including traveling, exercise, volunteering efforts, and other endeavors, others are relegated to more stationary activities. Such instances might be due to medical conditions which make them highly dependent on friends, family, and community members. To this end, it is difficult to provide one blanket solution for all crime prevention problems, however, as a community there are ways to get involved and help these citizens. While reminders lock doors and windows may be applicable to most residents, older community members tend to be quite diligent in these areas. However where elders are most susceptible falls in the arena of fraud. Scams, unethical sales techniques, and technological manipulation are ways in which criminals frequently take advantage of the older members of a community.
To combat these effects, take the opportunity to visit with a senior member of La Porte, and utilize the privilege to its utmost potential. Remind them that checks received in the mail are susceptible to theft or loss and, alternatively, could easily be deposited through a bank account via automatic deposit. Educate them on ways utility bills might also be set up in an automatic draft format, based on either a fixed or specific amount. When there is a need for senior citizens to make grocery or retail store visits, offer to be a travel companion and encourage avoiding salespersons or solicitors who are clearly not part of a recognized organization. Finally, upon returning home, review some of the common scam and fraud methods which typically target senior citizens, such as home repair gimmicks, telephone/internet fraud tricks, so-called improved healthcare hoaxes, and medical equipment fraud. Another option might involve visiting the La Porte Neighborhood Center, located at 526 San Jacinto St., where meals and various wellness activities are furnished for senior residents. Certainly there exist many other tips and techniques to look after our elder community members which citizens may be aware of. Each and every area inhabitant could easily take the time to convey an idea or two to those who have already given us so much. For more information on crime prevention tips, please contact the La Porte Police Department at 281-471-3162, or log onto the agency’s Support Service Division’s section located along the agency’s website at www. laportetx.gov/police/support/ division_information.asp. Additionally, the City of La Porte’s Senior Services Center provides a wide-variety of services and activities. They can be reached at 281-470-9897, or by logging onto www.ci.la-porte.tx.us/gov/parks/ seniors/default.asp
She is survived by daughters Linda Nelson Parker, and Karen Martin Harris and husband David, grandchildren Jerry Parker V, Jennifer Andrau Shpilsky and husband Steve, and Lauren Bohlmann; great-grandchild Benjamin Shpilsky; sister Mary Agnes Brister and husband Bryan, nephew Jeffrey Quinn; and her four-legged son Frodo. She will be missed dearly by all. Memorial Service to be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, June 17, 2011, at Paul U. Lee Funeral Home, 201 South 3rd Street, La Porte, Texas.
La Porte’s Office of Emergency Management Offers Hurricane Preparedness Reminder While hurricane season officially began June 1st, and will last until November 30th, the La Porte Office of Emergency Management (OEM) would like to send out an additional reminder for you and your family to remain prepared for a hurricane event. The preparation and monitoring process is basic and can be accomplished by following by following 3 simple steps: create a family disaster plan, assemble an emergency supply kit, and stay informed throughout hurricane season. When a hurricane is approaching, you may have little time to prepare. It is possible you will need to survive on your own for an extended period of time. Local officials and relief workers will be on scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. In addition, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days, weeks, or even longer. Start by creating a family disaster plan. Make an inventory of all the items in your home. An inventory can help provide proof of personal property loss after a disaster. Identify ahead of time where you could go if told to evacuate: a family member’s home in another town, a motel, or a shelter. If you will need help getting out of town before the storm, dial 2-1-1 to register for evacuation assistance. Remember to keep your gas tanks full during hurricane season in case you have to evacuate with little notice. Assemble an emergency supply kit whether you plan to stay or evacuate. Visit www.lpoem.org for a list of emergency supplies. In the event of an evacuation, listen to instructions from local officials for information on evacuation times and routes. If you have to evacuate, take your emergency supply kit with you. After the storm, stay at your destination until advised to return home by local officials. La Porte OEM encourages you to start planning early each year in order to protect your family and property. For more information on hurricane preparedness, contact La Porte OEM at (281) 470-0010 or visit our website at www.lpoem.org.
Police Blotters Seabrook Police Department 6/06/11 – 6/13/11 Burglary......................................................................3 CVE Citations...........................................................10 Disturbances..............................................................11 Domestic Violence......................................................1 DWI/DUI...................................................................1 Traffic Accidents........................................................6 Traffic Citations/Arrest.............................................51 Welfare Concerns........................................................1
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 5
5953 Fairmont Parkway Pasadena, TX. 77505
(281) 487-9333 www.gcefcu.org
PAGE 6
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
LAREDO’S TEX-MEX CAFE Serving homemade Mexican food in the Bay Area since 1969
Homemade Tortillas Fresh Local Seafood Old Family Recipes
2119 Bayport Blvd.
For To-Go Orders Call 281-291-8080
Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:30 - 8:00 Sunday - Closed
(Hwy. 146)
Seabrook, Tx. 77586
www.eatatlaredos.com
Salon Rouge Salon La Rouge
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 Summer!
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
Kingdom Security, LLC Commercial & Industrial Security Integrators • Access Control • Burglar Alarms • CCTV
24 Hour Service
(281) 479-6663 www.KingdomSecurity.org
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
Visit us on the web at www.bayareaobserver.com or join us on FACEBOOK
PAGE 7
PAGE 8
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
Does Your Business Want To Support The LPISD Newsletter? Your Ad Could Appear Here! Call Us Today For Details & Rates.
The Bay Area Observer • 281-907-3140
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 9
EDUCATION
Local Students Recieve The Chato Officers Installed Ray Joseph Hutchinson For The 2011-2012 Foundation Scholarship
School Year
Executive officers for the La Porte High School Chatos dance Ray Joseph Hutchinson Foundation Scholarship winner Rachael team are, from left, Desiree DuVall, junior executive; Maggie Arend - Clear Brook High School and Michael Hutchinson. Ayala, senior executive; Taylor Harris, head executive; Raven Moore, senior executive; and Taylor Wilson, junior executive. The 7th Annual Salute to Heroes Reception, in honor of those The officers were installed on May 20 at Cullen’s in Houston. who have served or are serving in our Armed Forces, and to raise scholarship money for the Ray Joseph Hutchinson Foundation benefiting CCISD students will be held on Thursday, June 23, 2011, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Crystal Ballroom of the South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center. This patriotic and heartfelt event is a special evening where our community can gather together in friendship, honor the Military, and bid on the wonderful Live and Silent Auction items. The 2011 recipients of a $3000.00 Ray Joseph Hutchinson Foundation Scholarship are Rachael Arend of Clear Brook High School, Brian Boettger of Clear Springs High School, and Meagan Benavides of Clear Creek High School. Over $120,000 has been awarded to new and renewed scholarships to date. Admission tickets will be sold in advance with the ticket price of $25.00, and the ticket price will be $30.00 at the door. To reserve tickets, purchase your tickets by credit card, buy raffle tickets, or for more information, please call Cortney at 281-3327673. The Ray Joseph Hutchinson Foundation website is www. rjhfoundation.org .
Visit us on the web at www.bayareaobserver.com or join us on FACEBOOK
1520 S. Shaver • Pasadena, Texas 77502
713-472-0997
Store Hours: Tuesday -Thursday 8:30 - 5:30 • Friday & Saturday 8:30 - 6:00 • Closed Sunday & Monday
www.pasadenahabitat.org
New dance officers for the La Porte High School Chatos dance team were installed on May 20 at Cullen’s in Houston. Dance officers for the 2011-2012 school year are, from left, Allison Brown, captain; Noelie Barbay, captain; Becky Rhea, senior lieutenant; Elissa Stamps, junior lieutenant; and Heather Salazar, junior lieutenant.
LPHS To Host Tennis Camp And Drill Sessions This Summer La Porte High School will host a one-week tennis camp plus weekly drill sessions this summer. During the camp, which will be held June 20 through 23, partici pants will be working on conditioning, stroke production, singles and doubles strategy, and game competition. The camp will be open to beginner, intermediate and advanced level players. Camp times are 8 to 9:15 a.m. for beginners and intermediate players and 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. for intermediate and advanced players. Drill sessions for all players will be available during the
months of June and July. Drill sessions are scheduled for 9 to 11 a.m. on June 28 and 30 and 6 to 8 p.m. on July 12, 19 and 26. Instructors for the camp are Tom Shope, varsity tennis coach at LPHS, and John Mullins, retired tennis coach at LPHS. Cost for the entire program is $50. Camp application and payment will be taken the first day of the camp. If paying by check, the check with driver’s license number should be made out to La Porte Tennis Camp. For information, contact John Mullins at 832-202-8579.
Eight Seniors Recieve La Porte High School Band Boosters Scholarship
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED. Thanks to all the supporters of the La Porte High School Band Boosters scholarship golf tournament eight deserving senior students were awarded scholarships. (left to right) Morgan Williams, Emily Gonzales, Chris Kimball, Julie Lynch, Erin Shaw, Garrett Mitschke, Aracely Perez, (not pictured) Sarah Billington. The band is under the direction of Kevin Poe.
WE’VE GO T THE HO TTEST BRANDS OF SUNG LASSES, GLASSES & CONTA CT LENSE S
With A New Pair of Sunglasses To Protect Your Vision From The Summer Sun!
La Porte Vision Center Helping You And Your Family See Into The Future Deborah S. Bernay, O.D. • Andreane B. Fagala, O.D. Patricia A. Galos, O.D. 401 West Fairmont Parkway, Suite A • La Porte
281-471-6546
www.laportevision.com
PAGE 10
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
AROUND TOWN Three LyondellBasell Sites Earn ‘Caring for Texas’ Awards
United Methodist Women Welcomes Special Guest Speaker On May 15, 2011, Julie Aftab was the Speaker at a Luncheon held at the First United Methodist Church of La Porte hosted by the UMW Women. Julie shared her story of her life as a Christian in Pakistan. She was abused, degraded, humiliated, and persecuted for her faith. Then at the age of 16 she was severely burned with acid because she refused to convert to Islam. Her faith is stronger than ever. At the age of 17 she was brought to the U.S.A. where she has been through 28 surgeries. Everyone was reminded just how blessed we are to live in America where we have the freedom of religion. It is hard for some of us to comprehend the abuse these young girls endure. Hearing Julie Aftabs story and seeing the scars she will live with the rest of her life, was an eye opener. Her ministry now is to help other young Christian girls and women still in Pakistan learn to sew, so they can make beautiful clothes. They are learning a trade so they can make a living. United Methodist Women were able to raise money so she will be able to buy sewing machines to help her ministry.
Three LyondellBasell facilities have been recognized for excellence in communications to community, emergency response, security and pollution prevention by earning ‘Caring for Texas’ Awards from the Texas Chemical Council (TCC). LyondellBasell’s La Porte Complex earned an ‘Excellence in Caring for Texas’ and the Bayport Choate and Bayport Underwood plants in Pasadena each earned ‘Caring for Texas’ awards. The awards were presented at a ceremony in Galveston on June 9. “We are honored to receive these awards and very proud of our employees who work diligently to put safety and good environmental performance first for our community and each other,” said Doug Mathera, LyondellBasell Bayport Choate site manager and TCC Executive Board member. “Our community is very important to us and we meet throughout the year with our citizens’ advisory panels and take part in local organizations.” The Caring for Texas program is sponsored by TCC to recognize petrochemical facilities’ exemplary achievements in plant operation categories, and commitment to their employees and surrounding communities. Caring for Texas award applications are reviewed by a combination of community leaders and industry representatives across the state. To qualify for an application review, petrochemical sites must have operated the year without an environmental or safety event that impacted the community, engaged in community outreach activities, made available its environmental and safety performance reporting system to the community, had no fatalities and be a TCC member in good standing. La Porte and Bayport Underwood are operated by Equistar Chemicals, LP and Bayport Choate is operated by Lyondell Chemical Company, both subsidiaries of LyondellBasell.
The Ray Joseph Hutchinson Foundation’s 7th Annual Salute to Heroes June 23, 2011 South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center
The Ray Joseph Hutchinson (RJH) Foundation’s 7th Annual Salute to Heroes reception will be held on Thursday, June 23, 2011, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., in the Crystal Ballroom at South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center. The event is to honor of those who have served and those who are serving in our Armed Forces. In addition, the event raises scholarship money for the RJH Foundation benefiting Clear Creek Independent School District (CCISD) students. Over $120,000 has been awarded to new and renewed scholarships to date. Each year funds are raised by sponsorships, table sales, and raffle tickets, silent and live auctions. This year there are wonderful items for the raffle, i.e. 32’ Vizio LCD HDTV, Remington 870 Pump 20GA Shot Gun and the list goes on. Raffle tickets are $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. In the category of silent auction items we have an array of wonderful items, such as Grapes of Wrath Wine Rack with wine, ad in Postal Publications, Jerry Garcia “Grateful Dead Legend” Autographed Photo and the list goes on. This year has the best ever live auction items: • Trip to Costa Rica, 5 night stay, • Trip to L’Auberge du Lac Casino in Lake Charles with several local restaurant gift cards and scratch off lottery
tickets and more, • Fired Up and Throw Down Cookers BBQ Party, this can be for 40, 80 or 100 people depending on your choice of menu and it includes a DJ • Seven day Vermont getaway with airfare for two (cabin has 4 bedrooms/3 baths) • Victorian Tea for Two which is everything Victorian, armoire, marble top oval table, Duncan Phyfe shield back arm and side chair etc, • Texas Pride, which is an antique buffet hutch, Constitution Chair from the State Capitol (if you have never seen this chair it would be a historic addition for your home), certified US Flag flown over the US Capitol with display case and more and more items • “Keeping it Cool” 100 bottle locking wine chiller with a 100 bottles of wines from around the world. LAST BUT NOT LEAST • A flight in a Folland Gnat T-1, which is a former Red Arrow demo aircraft XR-991. The Gnat was used by the British
Yellowjacks/Red Arrows aerobatic team from 1964 through 1979, when it was replaced by the British Aerospace hawk T.Mlk.1. It was with the Indian Air Force, however, that the Gnat came into its own as a fighter aircraft. During the 1965 war with Pakistan the Gnat is credited with downing seven Pakistani F-86 (Sabre) aircraft. In their training roll in the UK, Gnats were effective training aircraft for several generations of student jet pilots, and were a common sight in the skies above RAF Valley, UK before their retirement in November 1978. In the USA, a handful of Gnats enjoy continued life as privatelyowned sport jets. So with all the choices above how can you not support such a worthy cause? You do want to miss this event it is one of the best in the community. For information regarding individual tickets, table reservations or raffle tickets contact: 281332-7673. Hope to see you at the event.
Ye Olde Clocke Shoppe
Expert Repair of Fine Clocks & Watches Unique Gifts, Clocks, Watches & Jewelry
Sales & Service 281-554-2781 • 800-606-TIME Fax: 281-557-2431
1405 West Main (518) League City, TX. 77573
Hours: Tues - Fri • 10-6 Sat • 10-5
yeold@peoplepc.com
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
PAGE 11
LOCAL SERVICE DIRECTORY
If you’re looking for good service, please visit these local businesses!
Paul U. Lee
Antiques, Gifts, Collectibles, Vintage, Retro, Baby Boutique, Furniture, Scent Oils & Burners
321 West Main St. La Porte, Texas 77571
Funeral Home
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10:30 - 5:30 Sunday 12:30 - 5:00
Family Owned & Operated
281-471-0123 www.paululee.com
The Coolest - Most Unique Consignment/Resale Store In Texas
Sign up for updates
www.reliksandrepeats.com
Gilbert’s Piano Studio
LEOPARD REALTY
Serving the Bay Area for over 30 years, Gilbert’s Piano Studio offers private instruction for ages 8 - adult.
www.LeopardRealty.com
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
Piano Lessons Are Fun For Everyone!
701 S. 8th - La Porte Horace - 713-858-4716 Jason - 713-299-2607
Call Today For Summer Lessons
281-479-3004
A OUTLET Native American Jewelry & Artifacts outlet
Neal Broussard, R.Ph. $2 Deliveries
800 South Broadway • La Porte
281-471-1241
www.medicineshoppe.com
TNT
Turquoise Jewelry • Indian Art • Southwest Decor Tack • Saddles and much more!
Immunizations Diabetic Shoes & Supplies
Golf Cart Repair & Customization 201 W. Main
200 W Main .La Porte Tx 77571
La Porte
832-322-9550
281-515-2311 www.tntlaporte.com
aoutlet01@gmail.com
M-F • 9:00 - 6:00 • SAT. • 9:00 - 1:00
SMALL ENGINE & LAWNMOWER REPAIR
Let Readers Know About Your Service Business For As Little As
$20 Per Week
HandyMan Services Local Resident with local references
Services Include; Interior And Exterior Painting, Siding, Rotted Wood Replacement, Doors, Pressure Washing And Others.
Call us now to reserve your space
281-907-3140
Contact Mike at 281-471-8960 • Cell 832-405-2460 CLASSIFIED DISPLAY RATE......................$8.50 p.c.i. (Classifieds display ads can contain a border and bolded letters)
CLASSIFIED ADS SERVICES
Bayshore Humble Construction Building, Remodeling & Repairs Handicap tile, shower, bath with tile seats. Clean or re-grout tile walls & floor. New stainless steel grab bars installed.
Ray Garcia
281-471-4947 www. sheronspetgrooming.com La Porte’s Gentle Groomer 30 Years Experience Extra Sanitary Shop. No Overbooking By Appointment Only 281-471-1142
HELP WANTED DRIVERS DRIVER CDL-A: Texas regional, outstanding opportunity.We care about drivers, get home often and get the paycheck you need. CDL-A, 8 month, OTR experience.1-888-730-9312 DRIVER DEDICATED DRIVERS average $1000$1250 per week. Regular home time. CDL-A with 1 year tractor-trailer experience required. Good benefits, call 1-888-362-8603 or apply online AVERITTcareers.com EOE
DRIVER-PAY RAISE just announced! Company, owner operators, solos and teams. Consistent miles, benefits, all trucks. CDL-A and 15 months experience required. www.drivefortango.com; 1-877-826-4605 DRIVERS-DRIVER TRAINING! Paid refresher course available for regional van drivers. Earn 35-37 cpm afterwards. Home every week. 401(k) and great benefits. Visit www.AVERITTcareers. com; EOE. DEDICATED DRIVERS. Steady hometime, start at .35 cpm with stop pay. BC/BS benefits, CDLA with 1 year experience and Hazmat required. Call 1-888-595-9720 or apply online at AVERITTcareers. com, EOE. DRIVERS-DRIVE RED! Regional Van Drivers start at 37 to 41.5 cpm with 1 year experience. Regular home time. Great benefits, paid holidays. Call 1-888362-8608 or visit AVERITTcareers.com EOE. DRIVERS Flatbed and Reefer. Average $1.12 to $1.24/ mile (+fuel surcharge) Paid CDL training available & benefits! Call Prime Inc. today! 1-800-277-0212 or www. primeinc.com
DRIVERS-OWNER/OPERATORS Solo, teams, fleets. $1.28 per mile (includes FSC) 900 mile average length haul, we have more freight than available trucks! 1-877-817-3962. DRIVER START a New Career! 100% paid CDL training. No experience required. Recent grads or experience drivers: Sign-on bonus. CRST EXPEDITED; 1-800-326-2778 www. JoinCRST.com QUALITY DRIVE AWAY, INC. is seeking 50 qualified CDL drivers to deliver new trucks out of Garland and Laredo. Flexibility, miles based bonus program, safety reward program. Call 1-866-764-1601 or www. qualitydriveaway.com YOU GOT THE drive, we have the direction. OTR drivers, APU Equipped, Pre-Pass, EZ-pass, Pets / passenger policy. Newer equipment. 100% NO touch. 1-800-528-7825
REAL ESTATE NY STATE LAND Rivers & Small Lakes for Sale; 27 Acres- Salmon river area -$39,995. 97 Acres with stream surrounded by state land $110,995. Independence River- Adirondacks 16 Acres was $129,995,
now $79,995. Oneida lake proximity 16 Acres, $29,995. Over 100 new properties offered, Call 1-800-229-7843 or visit www.LandandCamps.com $106 MONTH BUYS land for RV, MH or cabin. Gated entry, $690 down, ($6900/10.91%/7yr) 90 days same as cash, Guaranteed financing, 1-936-3773235 ABSOLUTELY THE BEST VIEW Lake Medina/Bandera 1/4 acre tract, central W/S/E, RV/motor home/house, OK only $830 down $235 month (12.91%/10yr), Guaranteed financing, more information call 1-830-460-8354 AFFORDABLE RESORT LIVING on Lake Fork. RV and manufactured housing OK! Guaranteed Financing with 10% down. Lots starting as low as $6900, Call Josh, 1-903-878-7265
Lot For Sale
PUBLIC AUCTION 300+ Travel Trailers, camp houses, mobile homes & cottages. No minimum price! Online bidding available; Saturday, June 11 at 10 am Carencro, LA; www.hendersonauctions.com, 1-225686-2252 Lic #136
75 x 110 On The 16th Green - Wildwood Resort. 18 Hole Golf Course, 360 Acre Lake, 24 Hour Security.
$8,000
281-793-7961
Victoria Lake
APARTMENTS
281-333-2510 $199.00
Total Move In!*
$555 - One bdrm
TO THE
BAY AREA OBSERVER FOR ONLY $25 PER YEAR
FINANCIAL CASH NOW! CASH for your structured settlement or annuity payments.Call J.G.Wentworth. 1-866-4949115. Rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau.
FOR SALE
APARTMENTS
For Sale
SUBSCRIBE
52 Issues a Year
AUCTIONS
$500 - Studio
281-610-4023
Classified deadlines are 10 a.m. each Monday
LOTS & ACREAGE
HOMES
LaPorte Vintage bay home recently remodeled huge custom island kitchen. Detached 2 car garage with garage apartment.
CLASSIFIED LINER ADS First 20 Words (initial insertion).................................$7.50 First 20 Words (subsequent insertions).......................$4.50 Additional Words............................................10 cents each
All Bills Paid* All Bills Paid*
www.victorialakenasa.com (restrictions apply) SUBSCRIBE TO
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER 281-907-3140
STEEL BUILDINGS 2010 INVENTORY - Must go! Steel buildings at blow out prices, easy payments. Act now! 1-800-991-9251, www.usbuildingsystems. com
Shoppers with a nose for bargains head straight for the Classifieds. In the Classifieds, you can track down deals on everything from cars to canine companions. It’s easy to place an ad or find the items you want, and it’s used by hundreds of area shoppers every day.
NOW $7.50 buys 20 words
AUTOMOBILES
FOR SALE 1997 Honda Accord
4 Door LX
Go with your instincts and use the Classifieds today.
The Bay Area Observer P.O. Box 305 • Seabrook, Texas 77586
$3000
281-907-3140
Fill out the information below and mail in with your payment in the amount of $25.00 made payable to:
The Bay Area Observer • P.O. Box 305, Seabrook, TX. 77586
281-907-3140 Name:_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:_____________________________________________________________________________________________ City:_______________________________________________ State:__________________ Zip:_____________________ Phone:_______________________________________________________________________________________________ VISA
MASTERCARD
Credit Card #:__________________________________________ Exp. Date:_______/_______ CVV #:______________ Signature:_____________________________________________________________ Date:_________________________
Paid subscribers receive the Bay Area Observer by mail.
Visit us on the web at www.bayareaobserver.com or join us on FACEBOOK
PAGE 12
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER
THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011
IN THE GARDEN Baby’s Breath Euphorbia a Texan Plant As Drought Intensifies, Wildscaping at Heart-This New Texas Superstar Can Help Texans Save Water Flowers all Season Long and Likes Heat
Texas AgriLife Research has tested several varieties of Baby’s Breath euphorbia, a new Texas Superstar designee. “White Manaus (right) from GroLink has been the most vigorous in our trials and stands up brilliantly to our Texas heat,” said Dr. Brent Pemberton, AgriLife Research horticulturist and chair of the Texas Superstar executive board. (Texas AgriLife Research photo by Dr. Brent Pemberton) By Robert Burns AgriLife News
Because the plant wimps out in the Texas heat, about the only place Texas gardeners are used to seeing Baby’s Breath gypsophilia is in the floral shop. But a new Texas Superstar designee, Baby’s Breath euphorbia, breathes easily and flowers profusely even during the hottest Texas summers, according to Texas AgriLife Research experts. In climates that are less demanding, Baby’s Breath gypsophilia, is grown for edging or ground cover, said Dr. Mike Arnold, AgriLife Research horticulturist and member of the Texas Superstar executive board. Though similar in appearance to gypsophilia, Baby’s Breath euphorbia is not just another species but of a different genus, one that is fully adapted to Texas conditions, Arnold said. “The reason it’s called Baby’s Breath euphorbia by our group is that it has a general wispy, white cloudlike effect with fine texture, providing a background for highlighting other flowers,” he said. “So the name is a reference more to its functionality
bia tend to create a “mound effect” during the season, Arnold said. “It provides a nice filler material to highlight some of our brighter colored flowers or around some of our coarser-textured foliage where it might act as a foil or accent,” he said. Arnold said the plant also does extremely well when grown in containers, such as patio pots and around pools. “It can also be used in the ground,” he said. “It also works in hanging baskets where it can be a filler component for those as well.” There are actually several cultivars of Baby’s Breath euphorbia on the market, Arnold said. “We’re not designating a single one because in our efforts to test these, a number of them appeared to perform fairly similarly,” he said. “So rather than promoting a single cultivar on this, we’re looking at those (we tested) as a group.” “The cultivar, White Manaus from GroLink, has been the most vigorous in our trials and stands up brilliantly to our Texas heat,” Pemberton said. “Breathless White from Ball FloraPlant is another strong grower.”AgriLife Researchers also tested
All varieties of Baby’s Breath euphorbia can be woven in with bedding plants of other colors and textures for effect, as they were here in this demonstration garden at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Overton. (Texas AgriLife Research photo by Dr. Brent Pemberton)
than it is to its botanical background.” Doing well throughout the state is the first prerequisite for a plant to be admitted to Superstar ranks. A plant must not just be beautiful but perform well for consumers and growers throughout Texas, said Dr. Brent Pemberton, AgriLife Research horticulturist and chair of the Texas Superstar executive board. Superstars must also be easy to propagate, a requisite that insures designees are widely available and reasonably priced throughout Texas. Most Superstars are selected only after extensive tests at Overton, Lubbock, San Antonio and College Station by AgriLife Research and Texas AgriLife Extension Service horticulturists. Baby’s Breath euphorbia was no exception, Pemberton said. The wispy white flowers of Baby’s Breath euphor-
Mexican Bush Sage (Salvia leucantha) is a butterfly magnet in a Texas Wildscape. Wildscape, xeriscape, desertscape, water-wise, smartscape: whatever term you use, it’s all Texan for resource conservation. As residents seek ways to conserve water, native plant wildscaping can be an important part of the mix, since studies show lawn care accounts for over 50 percent of a household’s water usage. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows Texas gasping for water under a dark red thermal blanket of severe to exceptional drought intensity, the third worst dearth of rainfall seen by the state in recorded history. El Paso just recently ended its 119 day streak without rainfall with a downpour of 0.01 inches. Elsewhere, clear skies are predicted through Aug. by the National Weather Service coupled with temperatures hovering around the 100s for most of the state. Several cities and areas are already under stage 2 water restrictions, with others gearing up to announce water restriction measures later in the month. The Brazos River Authority has suspended surface water diversions in the Brazos River basin, affecting residents in 70 counties across the state. Texas residents are asked to monitor and reduce their water usage, yet home and land owners may feel they have little control over water use when it comes to manicured lawns and upkeep of green spaces. They may have heard of alternative gardening as a way to cut costs and save water, but may not know where to turn for advice or resources. Meet Kelly Conrad Bender. Bender is an urban wildlife biologist for Texas Parks and Wildlife who teaches people how to use native plants to conserve natural resources and provide habitat for beneficial native wildlife. The program, called “Texas Wildscapes™,” has helped thousands of Texans realize the beauty and economy of using native plants in their home, office, and school landscapes. Bender’s goal in Wildscaping is to provide the information to people looking for ways to use native plant species to conserve resources at home or in their communities. “Wildscaping is a way to incorporate native plants into outdoor spaces to conserve water while preserving our Texas heritage,” said Bender. “You don’t have to go out and plant rocks and cactus, Texas has hundreds of native flowering plants and trees,” she said. Bender’s native Wildscaping encompasses a specific type of conservation, but elsewhere the general landscaping technique of planting low water use gardens is commonly referred to as xeriscaping. Other names associated with conservation gardening are water-wise landscaping or smartscaping. Know it by whatever name you choose, but the concept is a proven resource saver for water, native wildlife, time and money. According to Colorado State University, lawn care accounts for over 50 percent of a household’s water usage. The university estimates that households and businesses can reduce their water intake and save 30 to 80 percent on their total annual water bill depending on the size and proper maintenance of a landscape design. Planning any landscaping project on your property or community area can be tricky, but several interest groups have put together a wealth of information online for beginners including videos and step by step guides. The best advice is to consider your values and start small. If you want to attract native honey bees and butterflies, consider planting sunflowers or gray goldenrods. TPWD has a variety of resources available for creating native Wildscapes that are drought-tolerant as well as attractive to the eye and to birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The recently updated Texas Wildscapes: Gardening for Wildlife, complete with 154 photos, maps and landscaping diagrams is available from Texas A&M University Press online or in bookstores across the state. A Wildscaping informational DVD is also available through the Texas Wildscapes Web site for $5. A YouTube video on invasive plant species and the benefits of native plant growing is also available from the agency. Attracting native wildlife with indigenous plants can also decrease the number of pests flying or crawling around your property. Texas critters who naturally avoid human domiciles tend to compete with others who become household pests, decreasing their prevalence in your home. The Texas Wildscapes site offers complete information on how to get started, from selecting native plants appropriate for each Texas region to designing a Wildscape garden. Whether you are planning a project for your backyard or a clay pot on your windowsill, the Texas Wildscapes book, DVD or can show the way.
Silver Fog from Dummen Red Fox and Hip Hop from GroLink, and found them to be best used in mixed containers, Pemberton said. “They blend and support any plant they are mixed with,” he said. Pemberton noted that all the Euphorbias are vegetatively propagated. Their water-use is moderate, and they don’t need shearing. “They are going to be On the Net: “When Plants Attack” video http://youtu.be/iwDzmwY_8wo. Website: http://www. annuals for us,” Arnold said. “In warmer climates tpwd.state.tx.us/wildscapes/ they might function as a perennial, but generally speaking, in our region they are going to be an annual.” Texas Superstar is a registered trademark owned by Texas AgriLife Research, a state agency that is part of the Texas A&M University System. More information about the Texas Superstar program can be found at http://texassuperstar.com.
CUISINE
Peach Refrigerator Jam (microwave)
GARDENING EVENTS
Ingredients • 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted and mashed
Green Thumb Gardening Series
• 4 cups sugar
Dr. Carol Brouwer will present a lecture on Landscape Design. These lectures are free and open to the public. When: Tuesday, July 12, 2011, 6:30-9 pm. Where: The Meeting Room at Clear Lake Park (on the lake side),5001 NASA Parkway, Seabrook, TX 77586. For more information visit our website at: http://harris-tx.tamu.edu/hort/greenthumb.htm
• 2 Tablespoons lemon juice • 2 teaspoons ascorbic-citric powder (Fresh Fruit)
Seaside Garden Club Monthly Meeting Carother’s Coastal Gardens in Seabrook 3rd Weds. - 2:30 pm
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 (3oz.) package liquid pectin (Sure Gel)
Your thumb doesn’t need to be green to come to Seaside Garden Club’s monthly meeting on the third Wednesday of every month at 12:30 pm at the beautiful new Carother’s Coastal Gardens Wedding and Event location, 502 Pine Gully Rd in Seabrook. If you want to help beautify Seabrook, meet new people, and learn new things, then come check us out. The next meeting is May 18th at 12:30. We are excited about hosting David Cater, an actual Texas bamboo farmer and story teller who will be presenting a program on growing bamboo and vegetables and more. This is sure to be a fun experience for all. For more information call D. Nelson 281-474-4825 or S. Thompson 281-291-0472
Uphill’s Liquor “Come To Uphill’s For Your Spirit”
Best Prices In Town 1021-A S. Broadway • La Porte (Across From Fischer’s Hardware)
281-471-2132
Directions Combine first 5 ingredients in a 5 quart casserole. Microwave, uncovered at HIGH for 5 minutes; stir well. Microwave, uncovered, at HIGH for 15-17 minutes, or until mixture reaches a full rolling boil. Stir in pectin, skim off foam with spoon. Pour into hot sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Cover with metal lids, and screw on bands. Let stand at room temperature until cool. Store in refrigerator up to 3 weeks. Yields 7 half pints. Recipe from the Hill Country Fruit Council website. http://www.texaspeaches.com
SUBSCRIBE TO
THE BAY AREA OBSERVER 281-907-3140
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
281-667-7758
www.laurentcustomhomes.com