Archives

2003 Archives

Monday              February 16, 2004

Galveston County Commissioners Court

Galveston County Sheriff Gean Leonard reported to Galveston County Commissioners Court that a newly formed task force is in place to take over the functions of the Galveston County Narcotics Task Force, which lost its state funding when Brazoria County opted out of the program. 

"I am pleased to report that the enforcement efforts of the group have been uninterrupted," said Leonard.  "The Drug Enforcement Administration has fully certified Task Force operations and currently provides housing, databases and other support services."

Leonard also said that the DEA will provide overtime compensation not to exceed $14,000 for each local officer assigned to the project.

Galveston County Judge Jim Yarbrough told Guidry News Service reporter Chuck Lawrence that the assets of the previous narcotics task force are being disbursed.  Listen

"Certain moneys are staying here in Galveston County, certain assets are staying in Galveston County, however there will be some cash money distributed back to the state; and there are some vehicles that were acquired with task force money that will be forwarded over to Hayes County, south of Austin, Texas, as part of the disposition of the task force," Yarbrough said.

The commissioners court voted to accept a $350,000 disaster relief grant from the Office of Rural Community Affairs for repairs to the sand sock project on Bolivar Peninsula.

The commissioners court voted to accept a $107,052 grant from the Texas Task Force on Indigent Defense.

The commissioners court approved a $1,952 change order to the Tiki Island Road project, to add additional traffic control signs.

The commissioners court presented the 2003 Region IV Texas Recreation and Park Society Award for "Agency of the Year" to the Galveston County Parks Department and the "Park Professional of the Year" award to Gerald Graves of Carbide Park.

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Photos and Audio

Mardi Gras Galveston! First Weekend

Very cold and damp weather discouraged large crowds during Friday night and Saturday events of Galveston's first Mardi Gras Weekend, and improving weather on Sunday did not attract significantly larger crowds. 

The Mystic Krewe of Aquarius 17th Annual Parade presented "Shake, Rattle and Roll" on Seawall Boulevard in blustery winter weather on Saturday. Photos

Saturday night, Mike Doherty was crowned as King Frivolous at the Knights of Momus Coronation Ball.  On Monday, Doherty and his entourage visited San Jacinto School. Photo

Small crowds enjoyed Galveston's Mardi Gras Celebration in perfect weather Sunday afternoon. Photos and Interview 

The Galveston Park Board of Trustees is offering a special $5 discount for next weekend's entertainment.  Discounted advance tickets can be purchased at the park board offices at 2504 Church or the Visitor Center at 25th Street and Seawall or online at www.mardigrasgalveston.com.  

"The final weekend of Mardi Gras promises great fun and great weather," said Park Board President Gil Langley. "We hope you’ll support the 20th Year Anniversary of Mardi Gras! Galveston by buying at least two tickets for your company’s use. Buy 20 or more tickets and we’ll deliver to your door and include a free bag of Mardi Gras beads and a 20th Anniversary Commemorative poster."

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League City Politics

League City City Council Member Hamid Kantara has announced that he plans to seek election to another term to Position 6 on the city council in the May 15 election.

Jim Nelson, a longtime resident of League City, has announced that he intends to run for Position 7 on the city council.

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Houston City Hall

Mayor Bill White announced on Friday that Frank Michel, associate editor of the Houston Chronicle will become communications director for the City of Houston.

In addition, White announced that Patrick Trahan, assignment editor for KTRK-TV, Houston, Channel 13, will become press secretary to the mayor and Ann Travis, who served for seven years as district director for Majority Leader Tom DeLay, will be the mayor's director for government affairs.  Details

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Harris County Homeland Security

Harris County Judge Robert Eckels called for increased public
education and community involvement at a recent town hall meeting.  The meeting, entitled "Homeland Security from the Citizens' Perspective," was hosted by the Council for Excellence in Government at Rice University's James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy.

"The people of Harris County have acted with courage, compassion and unity since Tropical Storm Allison and September 11th to serve their neighbors," Eckels said.  "Harris County Citizen Corps is an avenue to put that energy and commitment into a coordinated preparedness effort with partners like the Red Cross, Salvation Army and the United
Way."

Eckels challenged the Corps to continue expanding its core group of partners and educating the public about its role in homeland security efforts.  He stressed that the Citizen Corps' success was reason to press forward instead of slowing down.

As the region's highest ranking elected official, Eckels also directs the Harris County Office of Emergency Management and coordinates more than 90 police agencies throughout the county. He has consolidated emergency management services in Harris County under one roof at TranStar, which has become a national model for collaboration for emergency response. 

For more information about the Harris County Citizen Corps or CERT visit http://www.harriscountycitizencorps.com

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Galveston Parks and Recreation

Galveston Parks and Recreation Director Barbara Sanderson told the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board today that final bid specifications for the Menard Park Skate Park will be completed soon by Hewitt-Zollars Architects.

"Once that packet is received then a bid proposal will be prepared and issued," said William Cram of Island Skaters Association.  "If all goes well, barring catastrophes and having good weather, we could anticipate seeing a completed project maybe by a mid-summer/July timeframe."  Listen

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Clear Lake Crawfish Festival

The Ninth Annual Clear Lake Crawfish Festival and Crawfish Crawl 5K WALK to be held on April 3 at Clear Lake Park-Landolt Pavilion from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

"This is a family festival featuring delicious crawfish, hot dogs and beverages," said Crawfish Festival Chair Don Sweeney with Digitex Corporation.  "Live entertainment by the 4-Barrell Ramblers and games for the kids will keep everyone happy. There will be crawfish-eating contests for kids and adults and a gumbo cook-off. Shop till you drop at the silent auction and arts & crafts booths."

Sweeney noted that more than 3,000 people turned out for the event in 2003 and even more are expected this year.

"We’re excited to have our second gumbo cook-off, featuring amateur and professional cookers,” Sweeney said.  

“Again this year, you can start the morning with a healthy walk at the Crawfish Crawl 5K WALK.” said Crawfish Crawl Chair Joy Enneking of Phase II Fitness.  "The Crawl will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Clear Lake Park and will wind through the park and beautiful Clear Lake Forest. Participants can walk, run or roller blade and strollers are welcome. Registration for the WALK is $15 and 'Crawlers' will enjoy free admission to the Ninth Annual Clear Lake Crawfish Festival and a free Crawfish Crawl t-shirt.”

Funds raised at the event help finance the the annual Fourth of July Fireworks Over Clear Lake ‘Salute to America,’ which attracts over 100,000 spectators to the Clear Lake Area each year. 

"It is one event that unites all of our wonderful communities," said Fireworks Chair Pam Villarreal of PTi.  "The amazing fireworks show would not be possible without the proceeds raised at the Crawfish Crawl and Festival.”

Admission is $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 4 – 11 and kids 3 and under are free.

For information on participation or sponsorship opportunities, contact Shari Sweeney at the Chamber, (281) 488-7676 or email shari@clearlakearea.com. 

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Galloway Gallop Mardi Gras Fun Run

The second annual Galloway Gallop Mardi Gras Fun Run, part of the Galloway School's effort to raise funds for the construction of a new facility in Friendswood, is scheduled for February 21.

The event, held at the scenic Kemah Boardwalk, attracts "serious runners" and community members interested in the certified 5k or 10k, or Kid's 1k. 

To sign up, or for more information, call (281) 286-8616 or visit www.signmeupsports.com. For more information about the school, visit www.thegallowayschool.org.

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Moody Gardens

Moody Gardens will host its next Evening Star Party from dusk to 11 p.m. on Saturday, February 21. News Release 

Led by the staff from the Discovery Pyramid, and members of the Johnson Space Center Astronomical Society, the Star Party will feature a variety of large, powerful telescopes "perfect for gazing at the heavens" from alongside the Discovery Pyramid.

"Star Parties offer a great opportunity for people of all ages to learn about our solar system and the Milky Way galaxy," said Discovery Pyramid Manager Johanna Goforth.  "Whether you're a first-time star gazer or a seasoned astronomer buff, you'll have fun zooming in on the moon and distant galaxies."

Admission is Free. For more information about Evening Star Parties at Moody Gardens call (800) 582-4673 extension 4233.

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San Jacinto College

The San Jacinto College South Campus Phi Theta Kappa has received the fraternity's Pinnacle Award for enrolling 10 percent or more members than the previous year. This year, 138 students joined the honor's society compared to 90 last year.

"Everyone made such a huge effort to get our membership increased," said Severin Zindler, the club's president. "This award reflects their hard work and dedication."

The actual award will be given at an induction ceremony at 7:30 p.m. Friday, February 20 in the banquet room located in the student center at the South Campus.

The South Campus honors society is involved with many campus and community activities, including the annual Jori Zemel Cancer Walk, which raised more than $60,000 last year to combat osteosarcoma. Over $35 million in local, district, regional and international scholarships are available to Phi Theta Kappa members.

For additional information contact Jim Griffiths at (281) 484-1900 extension 3501 or e-mail jim.griffiths@sjcd.edu. 

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On The Webio

Galveston Police and Firefighters rescued victims of a hit and run accident on Seawall Boulevard Sunday morning.  Photos taken by Breck Porter are posted on The Online News Station. Photos 

Interim Galveston Police Chief Kenneth Mack promoted four officers during a ceremony last week. Lieutenant Michael Putnal and Lieutenant Phillip Morris were promoted to the rank of captain.  Sergeant Danny Alvarez and Sergeant James Franks were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.  Photos and Release

Scheduled Meetings
Meetings will be held in the regular meeting place of the city council or other governmental body, unless otherwise specified.

Today, February 16
4:00 Galveston Landmark Commission
4:00 Galveston County Emergency Communications District Board of Managers
5:30 University Area Association Roundtable, William Temple Foundation Community Room, 427 Market, Galveston.  Candidates for Galveston County Commissioner Precinct 1 will speak.
6:00 Jamaica Beach City Council
7:00 Friendswood City Council
7:30 Taylor Lake Village Planning and Zoning Commissioner Special Meeting

Tuesday, February 17
8:00 Galveston Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Park Board of Trustees Office, 2504 Church
9:30 Galveston County Municipal Utility District 31, 3200 Southwest Freeway, Suite 2600, Houston
10:00 Galveston Broadway Beautification Committee, City Council Chambersx
12:00 Rotary Club of Galveston Island, San Luis Resort and Conference Center.  Galveston College President Dr. Elva Concha LeBlanc will speak 
1:30 Beaumont City Council
1:30 Jefferson County Commissioners Court
1:30 Houston City Council
4:00 Galveston Planning Commission
4:00 Galveston County Navigation District 1
5:00 Galveston Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting for Urban Fitness, 527 21st Street
7:00 Seabrook Economic Development Corporation I
4:30 Galveston Families Children and Youth Board Executive Meeting, Rosenberg Library Randall Room
5:00 Political Reception for Lonnie Cox for Judge, Rock's Bar in La Marque
5:30 Port Arthur City Council
6:30 San Leon Municipal Utility District
6:30 Hitchcock City Commission Workshop
7:00 Seabrook City Council Special Meeting
7:00 Clear Lake Shores City Council
7:00 Seabrook City Council Regular Meeting
7:00 Tiki Island Board of Aldermen
7:00 Webster City Council

Wednesday, February 18
9:00 Houston City Council
9:30 Galveston Livable Communities Steering Committee, Council Chambers
12:00 Rotary Club of Galveston, Brothers Petronella Top Gallant Room. The program is the UTMB President's Cabinet
4:00 Galveston Intermodal Transportation Committee
4:00 Galveston Building Standards Commission, City Hall Room 204
5:00 Texas City Commission
7:30 Pasadena City Council
7:30 Taylor Lake Village
7:30 Galveston Independent School District Board of Education  

Thursday, February 19
8:30 League City Chamber of Commerce Fourth Thursday Info Breakfast, League City Recreation Center.  League City Police Sergeant Dan Krieger will speak on "Identity Theft"
9:00 North Galveston County Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting for Cottman Transmission, FM 1266
9:30 Galveston County Municipal Utility District 14, 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 1400
12:00 Galveston Island Pachyderm Club, Gaido's Restaurant.  Tilman Fertitta will speak
12:00 Galveston Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone 13, Galveston City Council Chambers
3:00 Galveston County Water Authority Board of Directors
5:00 Port Arthur Mardi Gras  Schedule
6:00 Galveston County Water Control and Improvement District 12, 524 Cien, Kemah
7:00 Seabrook Volunteer Fire Department Subcommittee
7:00 Kemah City Council Special Meeting
8:00 Terrence McNally’s "Master Class," College of the Mainland Community Theatre 

Friday, February 20
8:30 Galveston Commission for the Arts, The Grand 1894 Opera House Edna's Room
11:30 North Galveston County Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon, South Shore Country Club.  League City Economic Development Coordinator Doug Frazior will speak
6:00 Port Arthur Mardi Gras  Schedule
6:30 - 12:00 Mardi Gras Galveston!  Schedule
8:00 Terrence McNally’s "Master Class," College of the Mainland Community Theatre 

Saturday, February 21
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 midnight Mardi Gras Galveston!  Schedule
9:00 West Galveston Island Property Owners Association Annual Meeting, Galveston Country Club
12:00 Port Arthur Mardi Gras  Schedule
8:00 Terrence McNally’s "Master Class," College of the Mainland Community Theatre 

Sunday, February 22
10:00 - 6:00 Mardi Gras Galveston!  Schedule
12:00 Port Arthur Mardi Gras  Schedule
2:00 Kemah Mardi Gras Truck Parade and Party
2:30 Terrence McNally’s "Master Class," College of the Mainland Community Theatre
5:00 Robin Foundation Sock Hop, Balinese Room

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Gulf Coast E-news, published by Guidry News Service, provides comprehensive coverage of posted public meetings in Galveston, Harris and Jefferson Counties as well as regional news impacting the Upper Texas Gulf Coast.

Chuck Lawrence is Galveston City Correspondent.  Carl Guidry covers events in Jefferson County.

Robert John Mihovil is a special photographic correspondent for Guidry News Service

Ivan Arceneaux is a special correspondent. 

Drew Gilbert, who covered the Galveston City Beat, was recently reactivated into the Coast Guard for the Iraq war.