March 3, 2020 The Our 26th Year of Publishing FREE (979) 849-5407 PLEASE Weekly mybulletinnewspaper.com © 2020 TAKE ONE LAKE JACKSONBulletin • CLUTE • RICHWOOD • FREEPORT • OYSTER CREEK • ANGLETON • DANBURY • ALVIN • WEST COLUMBIA • BRAZORIA • SWEENY The secret first Some of the most bizzare elections in history The curse of the trimester We do our best to keep things in perspective around election small engine By Stephanie Johnson The Bulletin time, which is why we have dug By John Toth The first trimester of pregnancy deep into the anals of history to The Bulletin is a physical and emotional roller bring you some of the oddest Spring is in the air, and the pesky coaster. My emotions were all over election news we could find. gas-powered yard equipment will the place, and I was never sure We’re doing this as a public soon go into high gear again – we when I was going to scream, cry, be service to allow our readers to hope. excited, or have my stomach flip and compare yesteryear’s craziness “Turn the key,” he ordered. “Let’s my digestive system fail at the most with the current events. see what this baby will do.” inopportune moment. Add secrecy • During the “Bleeding Kansas” That was the signal to fire up the on top of all that. election in 1855, over 5,000 so- riding lawn mower. The last time I This blessed condition has its called “Border Ruffians” entered did that the results were – nothing. surprises as the body starts making Kansas to sway the election in This is one reason I dislike small room for the baby. It’s my first preg- order to force pro-slavery legisla- engines. They break, and I don’t nancy, and I have read up on what to tion. Even though the number know what’s wrong with them. It’s a expect, but things never go exactly of votes cast was more than the as the printed word indicates. (Continued on Page 10) Ramblings Because this is my first one, we helpless feeling when a riding lawn had been extra cautious, which mower stops in the middle of the included not telling anyone about my From ‘martins’ to pirates, San Bernard reveals its treasures yard and refuses to budge. Now condition until after the first trimester. By Janice R. Edwards the scouts of the flock start showing back every year to the place they what? How am I going to get it back I hadn’t changed on the outside, but The Bulletin up, they take stock of what housing were born, bringing with them their (Continued on Page 5) to the garage? From purple martins to pirates, is available before the rest of their gifts of catching bugs and chirping I got so frustrated that I started folklore and shrimp, the San Ber- extended family follows. cheerful songs. It almost seems like buying battery-operated mowers nard River offers up its treasures in I am always glad to see them they take our ‘blues’ on their backs and trimmers. They are simpler, but Torn between bountiful forms. because it means the end of gray (maybe that is what turns them they are also less powerful, and We heard the purple martins days and the beginning of their purple) and take to the sky, carrying the batteries are very expensive. pills, surgery were in the state early this spring cheerful good mornings. I just them off to who-knows-where, but Plus, they run out of power and take and got our birdhouses up early, can’t be ‘blue’ when the martins always returning with a cheerful hours to recharge. It’s not like I can By Ernie Williamson but they haven’t shown yet. When are around. The little birds come (Continued on Page 10) just pour more electricity into them The Bulletin from a container. Here is a medical dilemma for Harold to the rescue. He is my you. I took Facebook rock concert survey and wasn’t hacked brother-in-law from Arizona and Suppose you had a spinal cord posted by Facebook users who are sporting your first fuzzstache. has had a lot of experience with disorder that has left you with By Jase Graves Special to The Bulletin probably planning to hack into my So hold on to your Hacky Sack, these things. I haven’t seen a small muscle stiffness so severe that you Like many Americans allergic account and steal my pet selfies. and let’s do this! (Continued on Page 6) are in a wheelchair. You have dis- to adulting, I often zone out on I recently saw a survey that asks First Concert Facebook when I should be doing you to identify various rock concerts In August of 1985, a friend’s INSIDE THIS ISSUE The View from My Seat something more useful – like you’ve attended, and since my teen parents dropped off two of my fellow comfort from below the ribs to your scooping the litter box or lecturing years were in the 1980s, attending 15-year-old nerdlings and me at County’s ‘Good toes. You wake up each morning my children about the dangers of rock concerts was a rite of pas- the legendary and slightly dilapi- with leg cramps. social media. Inevitably, I come sage that ranked right up there with dated Hirsch Memorial Coliseum Citizens’ honored This muscle stiffness is caused across one of those surveys cursing at your Rubik’s Cube and (Continued on Page 7) by spasticity, a disruption in muscle by DAR chapter movement patterns in which muscles SEE PAGE 9 contract all at once. The condition is found in people with brain or spinal Wildlife refuge (Continued on Page 11) Like us on Facebook plans Spring facebook.com/ Break open house brazoriacountybulletin SEE PAGE 11 Page 2 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com

Tornado forecast AccuWeather forecasts a normal to slightly above-normal number of tornadoes in 2020 with a range of 1,350 to 1,450. That range is close to what occurred in 2019 and 5 to 15 percent more than the U.S. annual average. There were 1,422 tornadoes in 2019 and between 1,253 and 1,297 tornadoes occur annually in the U.S., according to the National Cen- ters for Environmental Information and the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center. AccuWeather is calling for more than double the average number of tornadoes in March, a typical total in April and roughly 10 to 30 percent more tornadoes than average in May. There are an average of 75 tornadoes in March, 178 in April and 269 in May, according to Storm Prediction Center records. www.mybulletinnewspaper.com (979) 849-5407 March 3, 2020 THE BULLETIN Page 3 Strange but True By Bill Sones transplants have especially high report endorses developing a more and Rich Sones, Ph.D. potential.” traceable sand supply chain through Made in Space Finally, a food-tech startup that better monitoring and international Q. “Space is open for business,” grows connective tissue, blood information sharing. and some companies are planning vessels and fat cells to make beef- Sound you really hate to use the International Space Sta- steaks (they “look and taste like the Q. Imagine the sound of nails tion (ISS) as a manufacturing hub. real thing”) has already created its being dragged across a blackboard. What technologies might carry the first tiny piece of meat on the ISS. Almost makes you cringe, doesn’t “made in space” label? “It isn’t a huge technical advance, it? Now imagine having such a reac- A. Organs, fiber-optic cable, but it could feed astronauts on long- tion — or even worse — to hear- metal alloys and meat might justify term crewed missions, as well as ing ordinary sounds like a person the expense of being made in future space settlers as they set up chewing or tapping on a table. low-Earth orbit, since it costs a few a permanent base.” There’s a name for this: “misopho- thousand dollars to launch just a We use a lot of it nia,” or “hatred of sound.” What do kilogram (2.2 lbs.) of stuff, says Q. Worldwide, what natural researchers know about it? Prachi Patel in “IEEE Spectrum” resource is second only to water in A. Also known as “selective magazine. For example, “the heart, the amount we humans use? sound sensitivity syndrome,” miso- with its four empty chambers and A. It is sand, a key component phonia was first described in 2000, highly organized muscle tissue…, of cement, asphalt and glass, reports the University of California, is virtually impossible to print on the reports “Science” magazine. And Berkeley, “Wellness Letter.” “In ground.” Here, tissues printed with with a construction boom in Africa sufferers, innocuous sounds trigger runny bioink collapse under their and Asia, the demand will likely feelings of anxiety, disgust and own weight, but in microgravity, pure increase. According to a recent anger. But they typically aren’t bioink could be used. United Nations report, the insatiable bothered by sounds made by them- Also hard to make on Earth is appetite for sand poses “one of selves — or children or pets.” Not a kind of fiber-optic cable called the major sustainability challenges much is known about what precisely ZBLAN made from fluoride glass. of the 21st century,” requiring the condition is, or what causes it, Typically, when molten glass is “improved governance of global though one theory is that suffer- stretched into thin fibers and cooled, sand resources.” ers have abnormal connections tiny crystals may form, weaken- Not only must ways be found to between their auditory systems and ing signals. Made in space, quality reduce demand for new sand but emotion-related parts of the brain. ZBLAN would carry more data over also policies need strengthening to Common features include feeling longer distances. For metals and discourage sand mining’s harmful discomfort at the sounds others other elements, microgravity allows environmental impact. Additionally, make that quickly leads to strong them to mix together more evenly, since sand is a natural resource that unpleasant emotional states; a and “magnesium alloys for medical transcends national borders, the tendency to avoid situations where these sounds may occur; and feel- ing embarrassed by one’s reaction. Researchers are looking to develop better treatments for misophonia, but two promising ones are masking the offensive sound by using active noise cancellation or adding inof- fensive background sounds (often called “acoustic perfume”) such as white noise. (Send STRANGE questions to brothers Bill and Rich at [email protected]) DID YOU KNOW? • When Nikola Tesla developed a remote-controlled boat in 1898, he tricked people into thinking a trained monkey was driving it. • The Chernobyl disaster could have been 10 times worse if three volunteer divers didn’t drain a pool to prevent a second explosion. • Theodore Roosevelt was the only U.S. president to have a confirmed tattoo on his body. He had a tattoo of his family crest on his chest. Page 4 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com for several years. “Our event is the tion, City of Angleton (special public Angleton Rotary to hold benefit fundraiser at fairgrounds only fundraiser the Angleton Rotary projects), Kidz Harbor, the Dream Club does in a year, so we pour our Center, Champions Kids Camp, the The Angleton Rotary Club will and a special dinner catered by On the club, I’m confident we will keep hearts into making it successful.” Gathering Place, and other nonprofit present the annual, “Rotary for the River Restaurant (dine-in only). the momentum going.” Trish is responsible for proposing organizations. Community” fundraising event at Dinner tickets are $20 each and “Rotary for Community” Chair, that the fundraising dinner and auc- The Angleton Rotary Club was the Brazoria County Fairgrounds can be purchased by contacting Trish Thompson, has been an out- tions help other groups raise money founded in 1953 and has been Auditorium on Thursday, March 5, Angleton Rotary member Patty standing leader for this big evening by donating silent and live auction serving the community with financial 6-9 p.m. Swords at (979) 480-4949. Tickets items that directly benefit their support and volunteer work every This year’s event will include and will also be available at the door. important work. year since. For more information benefit Military Moms and Wives J.C. Bouse, Rotary Club All proceeds go directly to sup- about the club and event updates, of Brazoria County, On Target President, is preparing for another port the community, including the visit Rotary Club of Angleton on 4H Club, Halfway 4H Club, and successful event. “Since our club Angleton ISD Education Founda- Facebook. Danbury 4H Club, as well as the started this event in 2003, we have Angleton Rotary Foundation. raised approximately $660,000 for The fun and casual event will fea- the Angleton Rotary Foundation. ture live music by Southbound 288, Based on the great response from silent auction, live auction, raffles, sponsors and lots of hard work by

YOU + PLUS SCENE OF THE CRIME = EQUALS PRISON: Two men used a forklift to break into a state agency that offers DMV services including license plates and car registrations in Wanette, Okla., smashed the place up and stole a two-ton safe. One of them was on parole and was wearing a court-ordered ankle monitor at the time. The cops solved this one pretty quickly. GRRRRR! OH MY GOSH!: A man stole a running car from a gas station in Great Falls, Mont., unaware that there was a pit bull in the back seat. He crashed into a power pole a few blocks away. LET’S CALL HIM SUSPECT NUMBER ONE: A man jumped over the display counter at a jewelry store in El Cajon, Calif., snatched up a handful of gold chains, and ran through the electric door, but his fanny pack hooked onto the door and broke off as he fled. His ID was inside. SHE JUST ADDS FUEL TO FIRE: After becoming enraged over an argument with his girlfriend, a man repeatedly punched and kicked a gas pump at a service station in Naples, Fla. He was charged with disorderly conduct. NO, I DON’T HAVE A RESERVATION, BUT I HAVE MY ABOUT US TRUNK: A wild elephant strolled into the lobby of the five-star Jetwing Published since July 4, 1994 Yala Hotel in Sri Lanka, and wandered about the place, knocking over furniture and lamps with his trunk. Publishers YES, OFFICER, WE DID GET A PRETTY GOOD LOOK AT John Toth HIM: A man entered the Bank of Scotland in Dunfermline, with robbery [email protected] in mind, pulled a meat cleaver out of a pillowcase, and then put the pil- Sharon Toth lowcase over his head. Alas, he forgot to cut out eyeholes, and so had to [email protected] take it off. Advertising/Marketing MOM! DAD! HOW COULD YOU!?: Just weeks before their chil- dren were about to be married in Gujarat, India, the groom’s father and Stephanie Johnson the bride’s mother rekindled a previous romance of many years ago, and [email protected] vanished, leading family members to believe they had eloped. Their kids THE BULLETIN is distrib- have postponed their wedding. uted each Tuesday by J&S I’M JUST NOT SURE THIS IS THE CAR FOR ME: A woman Communications, Inc.. E-mail who was pulled over in an unregistered car in Wyandotte, Mich., told the cop that she was test-driving the vehicle. When asked how long she had letters and press releases to been test driving it, she said, “A couple of months.” [email protected]. For BETS ARE OFF: A man, with a gambling addiction so severe that advertising information, call he barred himself from betting parlors, got a job at the Ladbrooks Casino (979) 849-5407. Advertising in Kent, England. He then racked up huge losses on the slot machines, and news release deadline is stealing $10,000 while working unsupervised overnight to pay his debts. 5 p.m. on Tuesday. He called in sick the next day, never to return. Our 25th year of publishing! www.mybulletinnewspaper.com (979) 849-5407 March 3, 2020 THE BULLETIN Page 5

nature drink, and no one questioned without being pregnant. Nobody Keeping my pregnancy a secret at first took planning it. Someone even tried it and joked even noticed as the party continued (Continued from Page 1) a row. I managed to keep myself that it was “too strong.” on the bus. a lot of things were going on inside, That’s right. I won it fair and together, except for crying when My body then decided to reward I continued to party in dreamland. from head to toe. It was going to be square, and secretly pregnant. they read their hand-written vows. me for taking good care of it and (You can reach Stephanie at a task to hide that part from rela- Every year there is a competi- My waist had expanded some, let me dance the night away like [email protected]. Or tives, especially at major events like tive egg toss at this reunion, and but nobody really paid attention. Cinderella. It was like it was saying, by writing to: The Bulletin, P.O. Box a family reunion and a wedding. the winner gets his or her name on All I had to do is behave normally “Have some fun, little momma. I’ll 2426, Angleton, TX. 77516) All I wanted to constantly do was the trophy. It’s a big deal. I was the and stay awake. Sometimes that’s give you a little break - until 9 p.m.” to tell everyone that I was expecting. winner in 2018 and had no intention easier said than done. When the clock struck nine, my That would explain everything. But of losing in 2019, no matter what The reception was too much fun entire body felt like it had gained Try us out for a month, we agreed. Why is she so moody, surprises my new condition man- for this freshly pregnant lady. I got an extra hundred pounds. It was and you’ll agree that they probably wondered. Why is aged to kick up. the bartenders on the same page, time to say goodbye to the glass she always tired? Why did she just The second big test was my and every time I walked up to the slippers, sit down and watch the fun advertising in The throw up? sister-in-law’s wedding, in which I bar, they handed me a non-alco- and excitement from a distance. Bulletin is good for your The first test was David’s family was a bridesmaid. This was going holic Topo Chico, poured into a But I succeeded. The secret was business. reunion. His entire family gets to be interesting. What could go glass with a lime wedge. still ours. I did fall asleep on the together in a lodge for the weekend wrong? Everyone kept asking what I was bus ride back to the hotel, but that Call (979) 849-5407. every year, and we all have a great The reunion was easy compared drinking. I told them it was their sig- wasn’t all that unusual. I do that time, but being secretly pregnant to the wedding, although the egg complicated things. toss victory came close. I had to Sharing a cabin with his family switch to double-secret secrecy. It didn’t help, but I managed to hide was a big day that should not be the secret. When I was tired, I remembered as one of the brides- disappeared and took a nap. I maids having a mishap right in front brought my own tumbler and filled it of everyone. with water. Nobody knew what I was The rehearsal dinner was laid- drinking. back, fun and easy. I stayed up and And, this secretly pregnant girl laughed the night away. The morn- eliminated all suspicions once and ing was smooth. The ceremony was for all by winning the coveted egg beautiful, and I made sure it stayed toss contest for the second year in that way. Page 6 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com

I bought it because it was a good couple of pulls, and the new and Dreading the mowing season no more; the curse is gone deal, and then it sort of sat there, improved generator was purring like (Continued from Page 1) have had time while he was here, morning. Harold would not rest until waiting for a power outage. a very loud cat. Sweet success. engine, or just about anything else, I’d have all those trimmers running the curse was lifted. It never got a real good workout. The riding lawn mower was that he could not fix. right now. The generator I bought years ago One time during a tropical storm, another project we tackled. I took I am so bad with small engines But we had bigger, more impor- is one of the victims of this curse. the power actually went out. I was in the deck off of it about six months that when one of my trimmers tant goals as we tackled the small- It became very sick. I could tell. It the process of getting the exten- ago because the drive belt broke, broke, I just bought another one. engine curse in the Toth household. wouldn’t start. It may have been my sion cords hooked up to it when the and over the months I forgot how I But I couldn’t bear to throw the I don’t know how or why it started, fault. I didn’t pay much attention to power came back on. did it. Thank goodness for YouTube. broken ones away, so I have stored but I suspect that one of my former it over the years. It took me over a You’re supposed to run these After reconnecting everything and them in a backyard shed. To Harold, neighbors put it on me after I year to even remove it from its box. things periodically to keep the a tune-up, it was time to insert the that shed is a goldmine. If we would mowed my lawn one early Sunday insides from gumming up. I, of key and turn this baby on. It was the course, didn’t pay much attention to sound of perfection. Music to my that. It only took a couple of days, ears – very loud music. and some new parts, including a Promise: I plan to pay more carburetor, to get it healthy and attention to all my yard and power ungummed. equipment. Harold made me realize Then it was time to turn it on. A that small engines are our friends. www.mybulletinnewspaper.com (979) 849-5407 March 3, 2020 THE BULLETIN Page 7 featured such eardrum-slaying the fact that their fans are now old Concert survey brings back memories of younger times legends as Van Halen, Scorpions, enough to carry a line of credit. But (Continued from Page 1) remain comfortably seated with got about as much rhythm and Metallica, Dokken, and Kingdom these days, I mostly get my head- in Shreveport, LA, for the “World hundreds of other boring, middle- blues as Mr. Rogers on his least- Come. Van Halen’s Sammy Hagar banger fix from the praise band at Infestation” tour of the hair metal aged couples singing along to hits funky days in the neighborhood. actually lost his voice at the concert church. And if I’m feeling particularly band Ratt - with Bon Jovi, ironi- from our teen years while waiting Most Surprising Concert – and I lost my ability to tell the nostalgic, I’ll rock out to Def Leppard cally, as the opening act. As we sat for an opportune moment to take a I’m not sure what I was expect- difference between the smoke alarm on my iPhone while I scoop the litter at the back of the venue’s top row bathroom break. ing, but the 1988 Rush concert in and the microwave beeping when box and take a few pet selfies. seating with our mouths agape, Best Concert Shreveport was a true revelation – my chicken taquitos are ready. (Copyright 2020. Graves is an we could actually feel our undevel- I witnessed the epitome of 1980s despite the relatively small number It’s nice that my wife and I can still award-winning humor columnist oped mullets standing on end as British metal and poor spelling of bodacious babes in attendance. occasionally get away to see elderly from East Texas. Contact Graves at we were initiated into the world of when Def Leppard performed in From Neil Peart’s phenomenal 1980’s icons taking advantage of [email protected].) live power chords, drum solos, and Shreveport for the “Hysteria” tour in percussion work that demonstrated overly excited girls with impressively 1987. Not only was I amazed by the what a truly inadequate drummer I permed, crimped, and teased hair- laser show and Leppard drummer was, to the Toronto band’s cerebral dos as far as the eye could ogle. Rick Allen’s inspiring one-armed lyrics, the show left me feeling Last Concert performance, but standing near the exhilarated, more respectful of Since my wife and I are now the stage in my sleeveless Union Jack Canada – and slightly smarter. parents of three teen daughters shirt, I was surrounded by hundreds Loudest Concert who would rather fold laundry while of squealing teenage girls who The concert that probably con- watching Wolf Blitzer discuss geo- didn’t seem to mind that I was there tributed most to the fact that I often politics on CNN than hang out with – or that I probably forgot to wear can’t hear my daughters asking for us, we’ve caught a few concerts deodorant. money was the 1988 Texxas Jam on our own over the past couple of Worst Concert “Monsters of Rock” festival at The years. Our most recent event was Nothing against the R&B legend, Cotton Bowl in Dallas. The lineup the Billy Joel concert at Globe Life but I only went to see Keith Sweat in Park in Arlington, Texas. The show 1988 because the girl I was dating DID YOU KNOW? was fantastic, and it was great to at the time liked Keith Sweat. I’ve • The organic compounds found in wine kill 99.9% of the bacteria and germs that cause sore throats, according to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. • When an 18-year-old Lady Gaga Prices Good Thru 03-03-20 studied at NYU, her classmates created a Facebook group called “Stefani Germanotta, you will never be famous.” So, she dropped out to pursue her full-time music career. Page 8 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com Brazosport College partners with BASF, SI Group for Texas Work Commission job-training grant The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) recently visited Brazosport College to reward Brazosport College, BASF Corporation and SI Group a $377,979 Skills Development grant, which will provide training for more than 73 new hires and 138 incumbent workers from BASF and SI Group. Grant participants are from 32 different occupations and work in both Freeport and Baytown. Pictured are, third from left, Chris Witte, senior vice- president, Freeport Site, BASF Corporation; Bryan Daniel, Commissioner representing the public, Texas Workforce Commission; Dr. Millicent Valek, president, Brazosport College; and Tommy Halstead, production trainer coordinator, Freeport Site, SI Group.

Scheduled Classes March 7; March 28; April 18 9am - 3pm www.mybulletinnewspaper.com (979) 849-5407 March 3, 2020 THE BULLETIN Page 9 Brazoria County’s Good Citizens honored with tea by DAR chapter Ten of 12 Brazoria County students selected as DAR Good Citizens award winners attended the annual George Washington Tea, held at the Bethel Presbyterian Church in East Columbia. They received a pin, certificate and gifts. From the 12 schools represented, Anna Queen of Pearland High School was selected the Brazoria County Overall Winner of the DAR Good Citizen Award. Her entry was sent to be judged in the Texas state contest. Standing at left with Tissie Schwebel, DAR chairman, are students repre- senting their high schools: Danbury, Brett Neubauer; Columbia, Bailey Gray; Brazoswood, Nathaniel Neely; Brazosport, Gentry Wessman; Angleton, Carolyn Stallman; and Alvin, Dylan McCoy. Seated from left are: Laura Otto, Regent of Asa Underwood chapter; from Sweeny, Kevin Vargas; Robert Turner High School, Angela Bowers; Pearl- and, Anna Queen; and Manvel, Maya Landgrebe. Not pictured are Natalya Ploude, Glenda Dawson, and Kendrick Cirilo, Shadow Creek. Chocolate fondue is the dessert version of the traditional fondue – pieces of bread and vegetables dipped in melted cheese. In choco- late fondue, pieces of fruit, cake or cookies are dipped into sweetened melted chocolate.

BC’s Kelli Forde Spiers earns PTK distinguished administrator award The Phi Theta Kappa Honor on their campus by recognizing Forde Spiers said. “Working with Society (PTK) recently named Bra- academic achievement, leadership the wonderful students in Phi Theta zosport College Director of Student and service among high-achieving Kappa is a great privilege, and I am Life Kelli Forde Spiers as a recipient students. so proud of their many accomplish- of a 2020 Distinguished College Forde Spiers is one of 26 college ments.” Administrator Award. administrators from across the Forde Spiers has a Masters of The Distinguished College nation and one of only seven from Science in Student Affairs Admin- Administrator Awards are presented Texas to earn this accolade. Recipi- istration in Higher Education from to college vice presidents, deans ents were nominated for the award Texas A&M University and was a or directors serving at post-second- by students on their campus. Department of Student Activities ary institutions who have shown “It is an incredible honor to even Graduate Assistant, also from Texas strong support of student success be considered for this recognition,” A&M. Before pursuing her Masters, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from Texas A&M University at Galveston. She has been with Brazosport College for seven years. Forde Spiers and the other 25 award recipients will be recognized during PTK Catalyst 2020, the Society’s annual convention, April 2-4 in Dallas. Phi Theta Kappa is an honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associ- ate degree-granting colleges. The Society is made up of more than 3.5 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 nations, with approxi- mately 240,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org. Page 10 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com shouting. The side who shouted the in Reykjavik, Iceland, openly stated History shows elections have been manipulated in past loudest would win the point. Aristotle that they would keep none of their (Contiued from Page 1) Greeley, died during the election Republican Rutherford Hayes the called the practice “childish.” campaign promises. They won number of eligible voters in the process. victory. • John Quincy Adams was elected 34.7% of the city vote, with their territory, the governor approved the • George Washington spent his • In Utah, women were granted the sixth President of the United founder, Jon Gnarr, a comedian, election. entire campaign budget (50 pounds) the right to vote twice. The territorial States, despite losing both the pop- becoming mayor. • The 1927 general election in on 160 gallons of liquor to serve to legislature granted it unanimously in ular and electoral vote. No one won • In the 1896 U.S. election, Wil- Liberia is the most corrupt election potential voters. 1870. However, the United States the majority, so the election went liam McKinley won despite the fact in history. Charles D. B. King, who • Before 1948, university gradu- Congress revoked that right in 1887 to the House of Representatives, that he campaigned from the front was seeking a third term as presi- ates and business owners in the in an attempt to curtail polygamy. where Adams had more friends than porch of his home in Ohio while his dent, won around 234,000 votes U.K. were allowed to cast more • In ancient Sparta, the govern- his competition. opponent traveled extensively by to his opponent’s 9,000. However, than one ballot, giving certain social ment assembly would vote by • In 2010, a satirical political party railway speaking at over 600 events. there were only 15,000 eligible groups an electoral advantage. voters in the country at the time. • Since 2003, rampant ballot-stuff- • During the 1988 Mexican ing has been recorded in Russia. Living along the San Bernard allows me to share its treasures general election, the government Scholars note that only Kremlin (Continued from Page 1) in a wrecked pirate ship after a bad made in the account, so it might claimed that all the computers had apologists and “Putin sycophants” greeting. hurricane just up from the mouth take an open mouth, a little time and crashed when the opposition party believe that Russian elections meet Once a purple martin family has of the San Bernard River by an some river feeding to bring back was shown to be winning. After the the standards of good democratic accepted the housing arrangement English-speaking Karankawa Indian that overdrawn account. reboot, the government’s party was practice. you offer, they always return each chief. The treasure on Theodosia’s My husband, Roy, talks about a miraculously ahead. All the bal- • The Ohio Constitution prohibits spring, raising one or two clutches boat was supposed to have been treasure he experienced down here lots were later burned to remove “idiots” from voting. The constitution of babies, bringing even more life great, but the Indian chief did not in the 1970s, when, if you were evidence of the fraud. states “no idiot, or insane person and joy to the river – and that, my find it. lucky enough to be invited, you • In Liechtenstein, one of the shall be entitled to the privileges of friends, is just a little river treasure In one or two of the stories I’ve could find yourself fishing in DuCros smallest countries on Earth, the an elector.” you can find if you look for it. been told, some of Lafitte’s treasure City. It was on the beach between entire national community votes • The 1876 United States Pirate Jean Lafitte’s treasure was buried at Music Bend in the the mouth of the San Bernard and on whether someone can become presidential election was plagued We live on a river that just oozes San Bernard. That’s where River’s Sargent - behind Cedar Lakes. In a citizen, based on their skills and by allegations of fraud and voter with treasure. I have already writ- End is today. In fact, we live on the late summer, DuCros City would employment. intimidation. The Democrats were ten about the pirate, Jean Lafitte. Music Bend. While watching the be built each year, and by the week- • In the 1872 United States elec- accused of intimidating voters, so in Legend has it that the famous pirate silver trout jump in the river, it’s nice end before Thanksgiving, it would tion, President Grant ran against a retaliation, Republicans threw away has left some of his treasure in the to fantasize that there is still pirate’s be gone. dead man. His opponent, Horace huge swathes of ballots, giving banks of the San Bernard. There treasure near at hand, just waiting Someone would bring in port- are a couple of versions to this to be uncovered. a-cans and travel trailers, while legend. Music Bend someone else would bring in food Around the time Stephen F. And the mysterious music heard and libations, and a little fishing Austin and company were coloniz- at Music Bend is a local treasure. community would be born. ing this part of Texas, the Mexican Legend claims that this music has a Fishermen would come in and government thought having a pirate ghostly origin. enjoy time fishing, relaxing, eating on Galveston Isle was bad for their The story of the music has fresh fish, shrimp and oysters, and public image. So, they forced him been told orally and written about telling the stories that only “old to leave his home. Being the pirate since Stephen F. Austin’s colonists salts” could tell younger men. These that he was, he had a lot of gold to heard the creepy strains. There are moments were treasure. get off the island. He was known numerous ghost stories associated One vivid, golden moment was a to take a strong-backed, weak- with this music – all of them have a memory of one of the fishing elders. minded sailor in a skiff up various fiddler being mysteriously killed and He spoke of a time when redfish local rivers and relocate parts of dumped into the San Bernard. were so plentiful that when the sun his treasure. He’d make note of the There have been various scien- set over the Gulf of Mexico, the location and bury the treasure – and tific attempts to explain the phenom- waters would turn gold from the tail- the sailor. ena, but no theory has become a ing of the redfish. Gold in the water Another version of this tale has definitive explanation. But I’ve heard – untold treasure. But this was one of Lafitte’s captains sailing up the ghostly strains. If you hear the before the river closed the first time. the San Bernard River to escape the music, it’ll make the hair on the back There’s still treasure at River’s hurricane of 1816. In this version, of your neck stand on end, and End. Roy and I have been fortunate the captain of the pirate boat knew you’ll find goose pimples inexplica- enough to get to know some of our the hurricane was going to be a bad bly crawling up your arms. And the neighbors. Some of them grew up one, so he ordered his men to bury fact that the music still plays, and is here and have seen the glory days the treasure to protect it from the still a mystery, is a treasure. of our community, and some of them storm. None of the pirates survived Shrimp and DuCross City are newly transplanted. But best of this storm, but the clue to where Back in the early days. River’s all, they have endless stories to tell the treasure is hidden is said to be End shrimpers often took 5,000 about this river, and every one of found in another one of Lafitte’s pounds of shrimp a day from these them is pure treasure, just like their If you enjoy reading The Bulletin weekly, treasure holds. waters - a treasure, a fortune, in friendship. The interesting thing about this tasty morsels, seemingly in endless (Write Jan in care of The Bulletin. please tell a friend about us and pick up an version is that it perfectly lines up supply. Email: [email protected]. with the evidence of the Theodosia But, too much of that fortune was Snail mail: The Bulletin, P.O. Box extra copy. To advertise, call 979-849-5407. Burr legend – that she was found withdrawn before deposits were 2426, Angleton TX, 77516.) www.mybulletinnewspaper.com (979) 849-5407 March 3, 2020 THE BULLETIN Page 11 Lesser of two evils: Pills vs. surgery Brazoria Wildlife Refuge plans Spring Break open house Continued From Page 1) 3 months. At the end of the battery’s cord damage. After the resounding success of Refuges (FOBWR) is a 501(c)(3) mental Education Program (DEEP) life span (usually 5 to 7 years), the their recent Winter Open House that supports the Texas Mid-coast for area fourth- and seventh-grad- Muscle movements normally are system needs replacing. controlled by a complex system - held during Brazoria ISD’s winter National Wildlife Refuge Complex ers and conducted in fall and winter Other factors to consider. You break - the USFWS Texas Mid- in its charge to manage the con- at the Brazoria NWR. The FOBWR that allows some muscles to tighten are about to turn 73 and, most while others relax. Damage to coast National Wildlife Complex servation and restoration of wildlife also conducts a bi-annual “A Taste importantly, the doctors tell you that and Friends of Brazoria Wildlife and plant resources and their for Nature” fundraiser to support the nerves in the central nervous the IBT should make you feel more system disrupts the pattern. Refuges are again hosting an habitats within the Complex. a special project on one of the comfortable but probably WILL NOT open house - during Brazoria ISD’s Friends’ largest outreach projects refuges. You have tried almost everything enable you to walk again. to minimize spasticity’s effects: spring break. include the annual Migration Cel- Children and adults alike can visit So, the dilemma: Would you risk This free, family friendly event ebration, now in its 26th year and the BNWR’s Open House at the Muscle-relaxing pills that also cause surgery with all its complications fatigue; hours of physical therapy will be held rain or shine in and held April 25-26 at the San Bernard Discovery Center and learn about and required follow-ups in order to around the Discovery Center at NWR; and the Discovery Environ- area butterflies and birds. and stretching; a year’s worth of reduce the discomfort even though antibodies from the plasma of Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge, it won’t, in the end, allow you to 2072 CR 227 in Angleton, on thousands of donors; and Botox walk again? injections to relax the muscles. Sunday, March 8, through Sunday, Welcome to my world. March 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. One thing you haven’t tried: An As you may have guessed, I am operation called intrathecal baclofen While the spring open house will describing my condition and the focus on activities and tours related therapy (IBT) delivers medicine choice I have faced for the past you now take orally directly into the to the birds and butterflies of the eight years. Texas mid-coast, pet-able reptiles, spinal fluid using a baclofen pump. I have decided not to get the IBT. The system consists of a pump including a four-foot alligator, will Many people with spasticity, includ- also be in attendance. and a catheter that brings the medi- ing those with multiple sclerosis and cation (baclofen) from the pump into Visitors will no doubt want to stroke victims, have had successful stroll down the boardwalk to see the spinal fluid. The pump is a round IBT surgeries, but, to me, the risks metallic disc that is implanted under “Momma Alligator” and her babies. outweigh the rewards. In addition to a plethora of resident the skin of the abdomen. I reluctantly did a trial in which The pump contains a battery, a and migrating birds, a river otter baclofen was injected into my and coyotes have recently been reservoir for the medication and a spine on a one-time basis. My legs microprocessor. The catheter is a spotted on the refuge. felt better but became so weak I Friends of Brazoria Wildlife thin flexible tube implanted under couldn’t move them without pulling the skin. One end of the catheter is them with my hands. connected to the pump. The other That’s the difficulty in dealing with end is inserted into the spine. spasticity. There always seems to What are the advantages of IBT be a Catch 22. You seemingly can’t compared to taking baclofen orally? have both strength and comfort. No IBT is more effective because matter the treatment, doctors and the medicine is brought directly into patients are always searching for contact with the damaged spinal the right balance. cord. In defense of the IBT, the dosage IBT, in most cases, causes fewer can be adjusted regularly to find the side effects than oral baclofen correct balance between comfort because it doesn’t circulate through- and strength. But at my age, I don’t out your entire body. want to spend the rest of my life IBT is reversible. The pump can worrying about whether a pump be removed. attached to my spine is working But there are risks: properly. And more trips to the The pump system needs to be doctor aren’t on my Bucket List. implanted in a 2 to 3-hour operation But that doesn’t mean I don’t con- done under general anesthesia, sider IBT every morning when my leading to the usual surgery risks. legs cramp, or every cold day when There is the risk of infection the muscles tighten even more, or around the device. every afternoon when the baclofen A baclofen overdose (usually pill leaves me fatigued. caused by human error) or baclofen At this point, it’s better the devil I withdrawal (caused by an interrup- know. tion of the delivery by the pump) are But if they said that IBT would both possible. give me even the slightest chance IBT is potent and, while reduc- of walking … ing muscle stiffness, it also causes (Ernie Williamson welcomes weakness. reader input. Please contact Ernie IBT patients must go back to their at [email protected]. Or, doctor’s office for pump refills and send letters in care of The Bulletin, medication adjustments every 1 to PO Box 2426, Angleton, TX. 77516) Page 12 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com SIDELINE CHATTER SPORTS STORIES YOU MAY HAVE MISSED By Dwight Perry ance policy just hours before he Jersey Night, sponsored by Target? The Seattle Times (TNS) totaled his car — when in fact the — By season’s end, will Houston No word on if Beast Mode opposite was true. Apparently — not Boston — be laying claim to insisted on Skittles on set he thought he was entitled to 180 the title of “Bean Town”? Marshawn Lynch is also just ‘bout minutes of stoppage time. Bucks stopped here that actin’, boss. Grass-stained Ohio State’s athletic department Turns out the ex-Seahawks RB Former NFL wideout Quan Bray, lost money despite bringing in $210 will have a “pretty substantial” role along with free-agent tackle Greg million in revenue. Or as THE Ohio in “Westworld,” HBO’s sci-fi series, Robinson, was arrested after drug- State University snobs prefer to call when its third season premieres enforcement agents in Texas said it, scarlet ink. March 15. Even more shocking? It’s their rental car had 157 pounds of Taking his medicine not a silent movie. marijuana in it. So much for trying to Astros pitcher Francis Martes Stat of the Week shake his reputation as just a pos- has been suspended for the season 66: average number of times an session receiver. after testing positive for Boldenone, MLB team’s hitters got plunked by Injury of the Week a performance-enhancing sub- pitches in 2019. Mets reliever Seth Lugo fractured stance. 41: times that Houston hitters his left pinkie toe after stubbing it on In keeping with the theme, MLB “took one for the team” last season. an ottoman in his hotel room. announced the sentence by tapping 83.5: William Hill sportsbook’s In other words, he won’t be toeing 162 times on a prescription bottle. over-under on number of Astros the slab for a while. Can’t win ’em all HBPs this season. Banging the can President Trump pardoned former Red-carded With the specter of opposing 49ers owner Edward DeBartolo FC Cincinnati forward Darren pitchers plunking Astros hitters at Jr., 73, who was convicted in a Mattocks has been charged with a record rate over the team’s sign- gambling fraud scandal. But the insurance fraud and theft by decep- stealing scandal, just have to ask: president did, however, refuse the tion after he allegedly claimed he’d — Will Houston’s promotional Niners’ request to commute the last re-upped his elapsed auto-insur- giveaways include Astros Replica nine minutes of Super Bowl LIV.

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham God’s stance on the sanctity of marriage hasn’t changed Q: In my youthful days, couples how we best function, physically For marriage to be right before living together outside of marriage and spiritually. After all, one who God, the relationship must consist was taboo. Is it right that we as a manufactures a product knows of three people: the husband, the society have disregarded the old more about it than anyone else. wife, and God at the center. morality? - M.M. That is why a manual comes with When the husband and wife A: There is a growing rebel- most products that tells us how to are focused on the things of God, lion against marriage throughout assemble the item and how to keep they will likely form a united bond the world. Living together with- it functioning properly. around the person of the Lord out sacred marriage is not only No wonder God gave us His Jesus Christ, for He is the Bride- accepted, explained away, filmed, “manual,” the Bible. God says groom who will someday call His and glamorized; some church marriage is holy and sacred and is church out of this world to spend leaders are diluting the Scriptural not to be entered into lightly. Many eternity with Him. guidelines for marriage in an marriage ceremonies have removed This is the hope that all Chris- attempt to be non-judgmental. God completely with couples get- tians set their hearts on. There is also great pressure in ting married anywhere except the Tribune Media Services our culture to establish same-sex church. (Send your queries to “My Answer,” c/o “marriages” as normal. This is not to say that weddings Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic But God’s truth and God’s laws must be held inside of a church Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2- never change. This is not because building, but the holiness of the GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the God is some rigid tyrant but rather wedding vows are greatly over- Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: He is a loving Father who knows whelmed by more prominent factors. www.billygraham.org.) www.mybulletinnewspaper.com (979) 849-5407 March 3, 2020 THE BULLETIN Page 13 Columbia Christian Senior Citizens Center Menu MR. MORRIS By Rick Brooks 629 E. Bernard, West Columbia, TX, (979) 345-5955 Menu is subject to change. Monday, March 9: Beef pot pie, Wednesday, March 4: Beef stro- collard greens, zucchini & tomatoes, ganoff, vegetable medley, hominy, pears & cottage cheese, sliced pears & cottage cheese, sliced bread, dessert. bread, dessert. Tuesday, March 10: Chicken-fried Thursday, March 5: Meatballs steak, gravy, green beans, cheese & gravy, rice, lima beans, mustard potatoes, slaw, biscuits, desserts. greens, jello salad, garlic toast, Meals served at 11:30 a.m. All ages wel- dessert. come. Meals-on-wheels available - call before 9:30 a.m. Low salt/low sugar meals available Friday, March 6: Enchiladas, - call before 8 a.m. Take-out meals - call by Spanish rice, red beans, carrots, 10:30 a.m. to pick up after 11 a.m. Transpor- CHARMY’S ARMY By Davey Jones slaw, cornbread, dessert. tation available - call before 8:30 a.m.

BROOM HILDA By Russel Myers

THE MIDDLETONS By Ralph Dunagin and Dana Summers

Scramble solutions: use a mirror to check your answers

ANIMAL CRACKERS By Fred Wagner Page 14 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com Bulletin Horoscope Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Your alert. If you are sensitive to mood SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. warm, friendly overtures can delight swings, you will feel a constructive 21): Whether you are building a nest some people but might cause others shift. Your financial situation may egg or building lasting bonds with to think you are being insincere. You undergo a positive change if you people, patience is more important may receive compliments and pub- allow the latest technology to benefit than instant gratification. Avoid licity in the early part of the week. you in the upcoming week. wasting time or money this week TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A trying to impress friends. Focus on can rock in the role of the brilliant unique opportunity may change ideas and solutions. entrepreneur. Sweeten business your destiny. You might meet some- CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. deals by using smart strategies one who can give you the courage 19): You will do your best this week paired with a pleasant attitude as to change old habits that have held if you spend time thinking before the week flies by. If you need to be you back. You can shine in social acting. The world may see you as tough on the outside, remain soft- situations and rise above the ordi- unyielding, but deep down you are hearted inside. nary in the upcoming week. generous in fulfilling requests from GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): people you care about. calm voice of reason should over- Handle a confusing situation with AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): come agitation. Loved ones could dignity and diplomacy. Someone Be more confident in your ability to admire little things or seem overly may prove their loyalty in the week do your job well. You can be both sentimental. In the upcoming week, ahead, although you might not real- businesslike and approachable friends might support your efforts to ize it at the time. Every promise you when there is a task to perform. renovate or upgrade your home. keep is a credit to your character. Listen to a wide range of ideas and CANCER (June 21-July 22): Find SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): people as the week passes by. innovative ways to get other people Cooperate, whether as a co-worker PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): involved in your plans. You may be or a customer. Consider partner- The New Moon might mean a new someone who can reach goals by ing with others to improve your start in the way you see yourself.

mixing with numerous people and career or business prospects in the Be willing to share your dreams with

obtaining their advice. Apply your week ahead. Your activities can be others in the week ahead, and they OFF WEARING -- was model fashion a being of appeal The Answer: knowledge in the week to come. focused on romance and not just might help you make them happen. WISDOM FEWEST ANKLE GRAFT Jumbles: LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Be on the moneymaking. Focus on keeping your promises. History of the World On This Day March 3 of Virginia, the upper class was 1933 - The board game Monopoly 1791 - The U.S. Congress passed exempted by legislation from whip- was invented. a resolution that created the U.S. ping. 1955 - “Peter Pan” was presented Mint. 1842 - A Mexican force of over as a television special for the first 1817 - The first commercial 500 men under Rafael Vasquez time. steamboat route from Louisville to invaded Texas for the first time since March 8 New Orleans was opened. the revolution. They briefly occupied 1855 - A train passed over the 1845 - The U.S. Congress San Antonio, but soon headed back first railway suspension bridge at passed legislation overriding a U.S. to the Rio Grande. Niagara Falls, NY. President’s veto. It was the first time 1934 - In Amarillo, TX, the first 1909 - Pope Pius X lifted the the Congress had achieved this. Mother’s-In-Law Day was cel- church ban on interfaith marriages 1845 - An Act of Congress ebrated. in Hungary. established uniform postal rates March 6 1911 - In Europe, International throughout the nation. The act went 1899 - Aspirin was patented by Women’s Day was celebrated for into effect on July 1, 1845. German researchers Felix Hoffman the first time. March 4 and Hermann Dreser. March 9 1813 - The Russians fighting 1947 - The first air-conditioned 1796 - Napoleon Bonaparte and against Napoleon reached Berlin. naval ship, “The Newport News,” Josephine de Beauharnais were The French garrison evacuated the was launched from Newport News, married. They were divorced in city without a fight. VA. 1809. 1826 - The first railroad in the 1960 - The United States 1832 - Abraham Lincoln U.S. was chartered. It was the announced that it would send 3,500 announced that he would run for a Granite Railway in Quincy, MA. troops to Vietnam. political office for the first time. He 1861 - The Confederate States March 7 was unsuccessful in his run for a of America adopted the “Stars and 1908 - Cincinnati’s Mayor Leopold seat in the Illinois state legislature. Bars” flag. Markbreit announced before the city 1936 - The German press warned March 5 council that, “Women are not physi- that all Jews who voted in upcoming 1624 - In the American colony cally fit to operate automobiles.” elections would be arrested. www.mybulletinnewspaper.com (979) 849-5407 March 3, 2020 THE BULLETIN Page 15 40 *Trailways, for one Complete the grid so each row, column Bulletin Crossword Puzzle of the Week 42 Big fuss and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains 43 Pennysaver contents ACROSS 23 British brew with a red triangle in every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to 44 “Family Matters” nerd its logo solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk. 1 Catnip or coriander 45 Kenton of jazz 24 “Oops, almost forgot” 5 Throw in the towel 46 Making a cake, say 25 Captain Marvel’s magic word 9 Former “Idol” judge Paula 48 DVR pioneer 27 Felt sorry about 14 Old music halls 51 Charlatans 29 Workable, as an alternative 15 Loosen, as laces 54 Shoe polish targets 32 Good-and bad-dietary sub- 16 Author John le __ 58 Molecule part stances 17 Out of control 60 Having financial freedom ... and, 35 Consumed 18 Road in old Rome literally, what the last words of the 38 Jiffy Lube supply 19 Martial arts-based fitness routine answers to starred clues comprise 39 __ F‡il: Irish “stone of destiny” 20 *Old West transport 62 Bouquet __: chef’s tasty bundle 64 Retail complex 65 Took a tumble 66 One sent back down the river? 67 “Metamorphoses” poet 68 Russian river 69 Loses on purpose? 70 Nickname for JosŽ 71 A great deal

DOWN 1 “In what way?” 2 Novelist Wharton 3 Race with batons 4 Annoys persistently 5 Pielike brunch serving 6 Golden rule word Solutions 7 “Any more bright __?” 8 Olympic symbol 9 Play a part 10 Words to a black sheep 11 *Handsome guy or gorgeous gal 12 Metro regions 13 Many August babies 21 Water in the Seine 22 Place of safety 26 Kindle read, briefly Solutions on the right side of this page 28 Furniture with a lock, maybe 30 “__ Rose”: “The Music Man” In memory of Greg Wilkinson song 31 North Carolina campus 32 Personal trainer’s target 33 Verdi princess 34 *Temporary group for a specific job 36 23-Across, e.g. 37 Lean 40 Camp bed 41 Impulses 45 Deeply expressive 47 Emphatic denial 49 Wagner princess 50 48-Across ancestor 52 Swab again 53 Avoid, with “off” 55 Sporty ‘80s Pontiac 56 Note equivalent to E 57 Flies off the shelf 58 Like much whiskey 59 Prepare for takeoff

61 Toss of a coin 63 Elected pols SEAL WOLF BEAR GOAT HARE MULE MOLE LYNX PUMA LION (C) 2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. Page 16 THE BULLETIN March 3, 2020 (979) 849-5407 www.mybulletinnewspaper.com