Posts published in “Front Page”

Bad smell in Galena Park traced to LyondellBasell

Jul 22, 2021

LYONDELLBASELL identified their plant in Pasadena as the source of the bad smell that has permeated Galena Park for several days.

GALENA PARK — Residents of the city have experienced an unpleasant odor in the air since last Friday. Harris County Pollution Control Services confirmed to this newspaper that they’ve received numerous complaints and they’re looking into it. One person in the area described the smell as a combination of garlic and bug spray.

Just after 9:30 a.m. Friday, a message posted to CAER (Community Awareness Emergency Response) announced the source of the smell as the LyondellBasell Houston Refinery at 12000 Lawndale. Plant officials said they’re working to address the odor, and sought to clear the air on any potential health impact.

“While unpleasant, the odor does not pose any harm to our workers or community, and there is no need for nearby community members to be concerned or take any action,” the statement read. “We regret any concern this odor may have caused.”

Galena Park’s mayor posted the update to Facebook as well.

County Attorney informs CHIC environmentalists

Jul 22, 2021

By Allan Jamail

Channelview, TX. – June 24, 2021 at the Channelview Fire Department on Dell Dale, Harris County residents gathered to learn how they can get pollution concerns addressed. Organizers of the newly formed Channelview Health & Improvement Coalition (C.H.I.C.) had Bethany Dwyer, Asst. Attorney Environmental Harris County Attorney’s Office (CAO), as their guest speaker.

Dwyer explained what’s needed to successfully present a case in court against environmental violators. She presented an exceptionally informative slide show which thoroughly educated the attendees on the step by step process of how to file a complaint. She explained the need for complainants to gather and document valuable evidence on the violators that’ll give the CAO proof enough to be successful in court proceedings. Violations can be reported by calling: CAO: 713-755-5101.

For an emergency with a chemical spill, odor, or fire, call the Channelview Fire Department: 911.

C.H.I.C. has organized in a continuing effort by residents to share information, to educate others and to work with governing and other agencies to address issues impacting Channelview, to bring awareness and to document, prevent and improve the issues and conditions affecting residents.

Upcoming C.H.I.C. meeting dates: July 22nd, August 26th, September 23rd, October 28th, November 18th, December 16th. For information or to join email: c.h.i.c.77530@gmail.com

Dems defy Abbott, continue stay in DC

Jul 22, 2021

Democratic State Rep. Senfronia Thompson

WASHINGTON, DC – More than 50 Democratic members of the state House fled Austin for Washington, D.C., last Monday, paralyzing the House just as the GOP was advancing sweeping changes in elections during a special session. Under the Texas Constitution, the Legislature requires a quorum of two-thirds of lawmakers to be present to conduct state business in either chamber.

The Texas Democrats plan to spend the week meeting with national voting rights advocates and labor leaders, election officials and other Democrats as they seek to keep the pressure on Congress to pass federal voting legislation.

Phased closures due for two months on Hartman bridge to allow emergency repairs

Jul 22, 2021

Lanes will be placed in a contraflow configuration to keep both directions of travel open

July 7, 2021

HOUSTON – The Texas Department of Transportation will begin making repairs to a portion of the Fred Hartman bridge this weekend. During a routine inspection last year, crews found some fractures along the joint and immediately repaired the joint with steel plates and later asphalt.

The $2.5 million emergency contract was approved to replace the modular joint. It took about six months to design and fabricate.

In order to replace the joint on the southbound portion of the bridge, crews will close all southbound mainlanes on the Fred Hartman bridge and then close the northbound mainlanes the following weekend.

During construction, lanes will be placed in a contraflow configuration to allow for two southbound and two northbound travel lanes on the northbound bridge.

New Bus Service to Generation Park

Jul 15, 2021

HOUSTON — (July 6, 2021) — Harris County Transit Plus begins its inaugural on-demand transport service today for residents living in the Generation Park-area of Precincts 1, 2 and 4.

This affordable service allows residents to schedule transportation from point A to point B, within two established zones, running along the Northeast quadrant of Beltway 8. The service provides a faster trip and enhanced passenger experience through areas of the county that are less densely developed.

The fare to ride is $1 for adults and 50 cents for children, seniors and those with disabilities. Cash, transfers from other buses and the METRO Q® Fare Card are acceptable forms of payment.

The North Zone runs along Beltway 8 between Highway 59 and the northeast portion of Beltway 8. The South Zone runs between the northeast portion of Beltway 8 to Wallisville Road. The transit zone also includes the area within three-quarters of a mile in either direction of these sections of Beltway 8.

JC/GP Celebrate 4th of July together!

Jul 15, 2021

State Representative Ana Hernandez and Judge Victor Trevino III provided the 4th of July celebrators free bottled ice water, candy for the children and registration of voters. L – R: Victor Trevino III, Justice of the Peace, Pct. 6, Ana Hernandez, State Rep. District 143, Hunter, Emma & Jazlyn Escalante (kids) Linda Jamail, District 143 Community Liaison, “CC” Cazares, JCPD officer and Katherine Nanney (kids mom) (Allan Jamail Photo)

By Allan Jamail

Galena Park – Jacinto City, TX. – On the 4th of July, 2021 the two neighboring cities, Galena Park and Jacinto City joined together to provide a beautiful aerial fireworks show which thousands from each city came to see.

An aerial cluster firework explodes high into the sky as thousands of 4th of July celebrators gathered in Galena Park & Jacinto City to recognize the Nation’s Birthday & Independence Day. (Allan Jamail photo)

According to Lon Squyres, Jacinto City’s City Manager, each city funded half of the fireworks cost of about $7,000 each.

Community says Goodbye to Lewis Spearman

Jul 15, 2021

A Memorial Service honoring the life and work of our newspaper colleague Lewis Spearman was held last Tuesday evening at Crosby Church. Above, Pastor Keenan Smith led the service.

CROSBY – Two memorial services last week marked the community’s sense of loss at the unexpected death of Lewis Spearman. Last Tuesday evening, the community came together for a memorial service in honor of Lewis Spearman, held at Crosby Church. Scores of friends came to pay their last respects, and to share some remembrances. And on Saturday, a large crowd gathered at the Crosby Fairgrounds for a benefit and reminiscences.

The Tuesday service was guided by Pastor Keenan Smith of Crosby Church. He spoke about his personal relationship with Lewis, and the unique qualities he had as an individual. His love of friends, joy of companionship and parties, and his interest in history. A slide show captured his moments in a Pirate costume at the Renaissance Festival, and as a Texan Patriot at the reenactment of the Battle of San Jacinto.

Pastor Larry Koslovski, who knew Lewis for many years through the Chamber of Commerce activities and board of trustees, gave a review of his life and his love of Crosby, its people and its traditions. He imagined Lewis in heaven working with his camera and tape recorder for the next story.

Others who spoke at the memorial included Gil Hoffman, the publisher of this newspaper.

Abbott Announces Special Session of Legislature Agenda

Jul 15, 2021

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today issued a proclamation that identifies eleven agenda items for the Special Session that begins at 10:00 AM on Thursday, July 8.

“The 87th Legislative Session was a monumental success for the people of Texas, but we have unfinished business to ensure that Texas remains the most exceptional state in America,” said Governor Abbott. “Two of my emergency items, along with other important legislation, did not make it to my desk during the regular session, and we have a responsibility to finish the job on behalf of all Texans. These Special Session priority items put the people of Texas first and will keep the Lone Star State on a path to prosperity. I look forward to working with my partners in the Legislature to pass this legislation as we build a brighter future for all who call Texas home.”

Special Session agenda items will include:

Garcia: Precinct 2 initiates Pothole Repair program

Jul 15, 2021

Pct. 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia with the new Pothole Repair truck that will speed up the repair of dangerous Potholes.

EAST HARRIS COUNTY – One of Commissioner Garcia’s top missions has been to develop new strategies in making sure Precinct 2 roadways are well maintained and safe for constituents.

Commissioner Adrian Garcia says that “Summer is here, one of the busiest times of the year for Precinct 2: from park renovations to ribbon cuttings, road repair, and bridge maintenance, we do a lot of everything!”

With all those initiatives ongoing, today, Commissioner Garcia announces the newest way Precinct 2 is getting the job done! Specially-equipped trucks are being used to repair potholes in the Precinct.

If you see a pothole that needs to be addressed, all you have to do is call the Pct 2 Call Center at 713-274-2222 or visit www.hcp2.com to file a report and get the pothole fixed.

It’s Way Too Early to Claim Victory Over the Virus

Jul 2, 2021

Many Harris County Residents Still at Risk for Getting COVID-19

HARRIS COUNTY –– Don’t get too comfortable with Harris County’s decline in COVID-19 cases. At this time, 58% percent of Harris County residents have received at least one dose of the vaccine and almost 48% of ages 12 and up are fully vaccinated. However, that means nearly half are not and still at risk for getting the virus. To ensure cases continue to decline, more people must get fully vaccinated.

Unvaccinated residents are not only at risk of contracting the virus but spreading it to others, including children under the age of 12 who can’t be vaccinated. Be cautious when you’re public with your family since most people are not wearing masks, more than half are not vaccinated and some could be infected. In addition, many people who are sick with the virus don’t know they have it. 4 out of 10 infected people have no symptoms but are still contagious. Harris County Public Health recommends all adults get vaccinated and that parents of 12- to 17 year-old children get them vaccinated.

Vaccines are free at HCPH vaccination sites throughout Harris County and no appointment is needed. To find one near you, go to vacstrac.hctx.net or call 832-927-8787.

North Shore Rotary installs new officers

Jul 1, 2021

NORTH SHORE ROTARY held their Annual Installation banquet to install new officers and board members. Seen above at right is Judge Lucia Bates, swearing in the new president, Shawn Silman (in the hat). Others sworn in include Ken Wimbley, president-elect, Lee Brown, secretary, Danna Nino, treasurer, and board members Fred Saunders, Alan Wolcik, Joe Coleman, Jared Dagley, and Mini Izaguirre.

By Gilbert Hoffman

North Shore Rotary held their annual Installation Ceremony and Awards Banquet last Friday, June 11 at Monument Inn. Attending were club members and their families, and members of District 5890.

District 5890 guests included Director of Rotary International Suzi Howe and husband Bill, District Governor Scott Rainey and wife Martha, District Governor Elect Michelle Bohreer, and District Governor nominees Mindy Snyder and Heather Rimatto. Also attending was Assistant District Governor Brian Clements from the Galena Park/Jacinto City club.

New officers that were sworn in include President Shawn Silman, Pres-elect Ken Wimbley, Secretary Lee Brown, and Treasurer Danna Nino.

Board members that were installed include Fred Saunders, Alan Wolcik, Joe Coleman, Jared Dagley, and Mini Izaguirre.