Issue #297 OF THE STAR Carter Funeral Home, p.3 Expo & Health Fair, p. 8 NORTH CHANNEL ✯ STAR Your News, Your Newspaper

Serving all of the North Shore -- Channelview, Sheldon, Galena Park, Jacinto City VOLUME 7, NO. 41 (#297) THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019 www.northchannelstar.com

CHANNEL North Shore 54-25 over North Channel Chamber “SALUTES” set for Nov. 7 CURRENTS undefeated Westbrook

By Allan Jamail

BEAUMONT, TX. – Thursday, October 24 – The Mustangs re- main undefeated in district play by beating the undefeated West- brook Bruins 54 – 25. Mustang Coach Jon Kay mixed up his offense using sev- eral players both rushing and pass receiving to never fall be- hind in the game. His special Mustang #14, Charles King wide receiver dives and stretches teams players shined and scored ball across the goal line scoring on a Dematrius Davis pass. numerous times. North Shore’s offense racked up 470 total yards with 267 yards rushing and 203 yards The North Channel Chamber will hold its 11th annual Salute passing. Their defense allowed to Veterans, current military personnel, and First Responders. the Bruins to make 500 yards but Also taking place will be a Business Expo and Health Fair. not allowing them in the end The event will be held at Armenta’s Reception Hall in zone enough to threaten their Channelview, 823 Sheldon Road, from 10 am to 2 pm on lead. Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019. The public is invited. There are North Shore’s #3 Zach Evans gallops 64 yards for a booths and sponsorships available by calling the Chamber More North Shore, Page 8 touchdown. (Photos by Allan Jamail) at 713-450-3600. Last year’s photo from the Expo. LyondellBasell volunteers help Rio Villa Flukinger Community Community repair front entrance after Imelda Center events •Monday, Nov. 4, Corpus Christi Overnight Bus Trip •Thursday, Nov. 7, Special Ladies Auction, browse @ 8:00, starts 9:45. Gospel night 7-9 pm. Questions, please call 713-274-2132. Center located at 16003 Lorenzo St., Channelview, TX 77530. VFW 10462 BBQ Bet with Vets, November 9, 2019. Noon until gone. BBQ plates: chicken, sausage, potatoe salad & beans. $10 plate. VFW 823 Nadolney, , TX 77015. All procedes for VFW building maintenance. Alzheimer Awareness Program Group of volunteers before any repairs and work done at Rio Villa entrance. Original sign before any work. Thursday, November HOUSTON, – 14, 19 at 6:30 p.m. at About 40 volunteers, fam- terials to repair and beau- times,” said Mark Gasper, portant that we assist our Oct. 28, 2019 – Lyondell- Flukinger Community ily members and Rio Villa tify the two entrance signs project manager for Lyon- neighbors during their Basell employees recently Center, 16003 Lorenzo St. residents gathered at the that were nearly covered dellBasell’s propylene ox- time of need. Rio Villa is a dedicated a Saturday to Channelview, TX. Call 713- front entrance of the up by floodwater. ide and tertiary butyl very close-knit community helping out their Rio Villa neighborhood on Oct. 19 “As a company, it is alcohol (PO/TBA) project 274-2132 to RSVP. Visit neighbors after the com- armed with heavy equip- part of our culture to give Alz.org for more informa- taking place in Channel- See Global Day Care, munity flooded following ment and landscaping ma- back to our communities view. “It’s even more im- Page 8 tion. Tropical Storm Imelda. even during normal Yellowjackets defeat Jacinto City’s Day of Patriots 26 –18 in Good Works Homecoming game

By Allan Jamail

Galena Park ISD Stadi- um, Homecoming game, Friday, October, 25, 2019 - The Yellowjackets played good football on both of- fense and defense, defeat- ing the Baytown Goose Creek Memorial Patriots 26 to 18. Head Coach Spiro Ama- Photo by Allan Jamail rantos of the Galena Park Jacinto City, Tx. – Friday, October 25, 2019 at the Jacinto City Town Center volunteers Yellowjackets had the stepped up to make sure the food staples, health and personal dental hygiene kits was team playing better than distributed to those requesting assistance. Over 200 people were assisted from the local ever this season. His of- communities. fense rushing game made L – R: Volunteers: Pamela Perez, Irasema Salinas, Vice-Pres. Keep Jacinto City Clean 201 yards, the passing Committee, Lucinni Balar, URS logo, Ivan Rojas, Jacinto City Recreation Director, Gloria game needs more plays to better balance the offense Montano, Summit Dental Center, Rodrigo P. De Luna, Angels Medical, Roa Espinosa, and Rudolfo Nunez, United Healthcare. Others not in photo, Vicente Salinas, Lupe Gomez and Photo by Allan Jamail Omar Cortez. See Galena Park, 2019 Galena Park Homecoming King, Eddie Rodriquez Page 8 (band member) and Queen Karla Reyes. ✯ Page 2 NORTH CHANNEL STAR THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019 ✯ C O M M U N I T Y N E W S ✯

Florus running for Constable Robert E. Lee High School named Apple Distinguished School

Robert E. Lee High School is pleased _to an- nounce that it has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for 2019–2022 for its unique _implementation of tech- nology where every stu- dent learns with iPad and teachers use iPad and Ap- ple TV to help facilitate learning. Apple Distinguished Schools are centers of in- novation, leadership, and educational excellence that use Apple technology Photo by Carrie Pryor-Newman to inspire creativity, collab- Katie Ward (second from left), Algebra II teacher, oration, and critical think- and student Esmerelda Gonzalez (middle) show ing. They showcase Shae Cottar (left), Goose Creek CISD board innovative uses of technol- member, and Jess Cottar, community member, ogy in learning, teaching, Deborah Florus was the featured center of the Crosby American Legion and the school environ- how the Classkick app works. fish fry dinner last Friday. A live auction featured Eddie Foster as auctioneer. ment and have document- ed results of academic accomplishment. “Becoming an Apple Boo Bash Distinguished School for the third time is unprece- dented in Goose Creek CISD. This is another great example of the pro- fessionalism and constant focus our teachers have in improving the level of in- struction on our campus,” said Dr. Joseph Farn- sworth, REL principal. “Lori Roberts, our educa- tional technology special- Photo by Katie Dean ist, played a huge role in Lauren Spyker tries out a new recipe while Ethan our success! We have em- Selman videos in Chef Ginger Zoidis’ Culinary Arts braced the 21st Century class. technological skills that our students need to be successful after high relads2019 to download school. This is a tremen- teacher Katie Ward is able and read the book. dous recognition that to give her students in- Built in 1928, Robert E. again illustrates the fact stant and relevant feed- Lee High School has a rich that Robert E. Lee High back on their math work history as the oldest high School is the flagship high using the app Classkick. school in Baytown. Tradi- school of Baytown.” Through Classkick, stu- tions, such as the school The selection of Robert dents are also able to anon- colors of maroon and white, E. Lee High School as an ymously ask for assistance the Gander mascot and the Apple Distinguished from their instructor or saying, “Once a Gander, “Chuck” Thompson smiles as he chaperones the hay ride around the park School highlights the classmates on solving Always a Gander,” have near Crosby Community Center and the Crosby Branch Library. The hay school’s success as an inno- problems if they are stuck. been passed down through ride was one of a bevy of activities at the Boo Bash last Saturday near vative and _compelling Student Juan De La O the years. Proud alumni Hare Road in Crosby. Delicious sandwiches were also for sale to supporters. learning environment that likes Classkick “because it recall Doc Severinsen play- The majority of the Crosby Community Center activities are self supporting engages students and pro- helps improve my learning ing a concert with the REL vides tangible evidence of Band in the 1960s and the and members supported rather than a tax based pay out. The weather and gives me immediate academic accomplishment. feedback.” Learning for excitement surrounding was certainly favorable for turn out and outdoor fun. Students are engaged in teachers is also embedded President Ford’s visit to collaboration and team- into the school culture. Stallworth Stadium for a work through the use of Teachers participate in Gander football game in iPad. In Ginger Zoidis’ Cu- digital badge challenges 1976. Nearly destroyed by linary Arts classes, stu- and professional develop- fire in 1987, the school was dents use iPad to create ment to help increase their rebuilt, and it was honored how-to recipe videos using technology skills. Ninety- with a historical marker iMovie and Clips to share four percent of the faculty dedication, sponsored by their knowledge on creat- (including teachers, ad- the Baytown Historical ing a variety of dishes. ministrators, and counse- Preservation Association, With iMovie, Deaf Educa- lors) has earned Apple in 2013. Today, REL serves tion students Dejaree Teacher Certification for nearly 1,800 students and Gray, Stephanie Hernan- iPad. These examples and houses the STEM Acade- dez, and Yaneli Gonzales more can be found in the my, which recently were able to add picture- book This is Us: Robert E. achieved Model Status, the in-picture American Sign Lee High School on Apple highest rating granted by Language (ASL) transla- Books for iPhone, iPad, or the National Career Acad- tions to their recipe in- Mac. Visit http://bit.ly/ emy Coalition. 281-328-5869 structions. Algebra II

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CROSBY’S HOME TOWN HOME CARE THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019 NORTH CHANNEL✯STAR Page 3 COMMUNITY NEWS Harris County Flood Control State Rep. Ana Hernandez hosts District completes phase one breakfast and fellowhsip in study of large diameter tunnels honor of National Clergy for stormwater conveyance Appreciation Month

The Harris County could potentially be even flaw." Flood Control District better for tunneling," said Preliminary estimates worked with a team of un- Brian Gettinger, P.E., Tun- prepared during the derground construction ex- neling Services Leader at phase-one study show that perts to take an initial look Freese and Nichols. "This a 10-mile-long, 25- and 40- at the feasibility of con- is a key factor in the phase- foot diameter tunnel would structing largediameter, one study as it validates cost approximately $1 bil- deep tunnels to convey that large-diameter, deep lion and $1.5 billion, re- stormwater. Underground tunnels are constructable spectively, to construct. tunnels could supplement in Harris County." Harris County Flood existing bayou and creek The deep tunnel concept Control District funded the capacity to mitigate flood- has similarities to a 1996 phase-one study through a ing in Harris County. The Flood Control District fea- $320,000 grant from the team was led by Freese sibility study that consid- U.S. Economic Develop- and Nichols with support ered a trenched box culvert ment Administration and from Parsons, Brierley As- system along the Inter- an $80,000 cost-share from sociates, Terracon, HVJ, state 10 right-of-way. Un- the Flood Control District's Sowells Consulting Engi- like the 1996 study, the 2018 Bond Program. Con- neers, and Middleton large-diameter tunnel con- siderations for the next Brown. cept has the potential to phase of the study are cur- The study was the first convey much larger flow rently in development. phase of a multi-phased rates and to convey the approach and focused on flow all the way into the ABOUT THE HARRIS On Tuesday, October 29, 2019 State Rep Ana Hernandez celebrated National Clergy determining the applica- . COUNTY FLOOD CON- Month with Pastors and the community at North Shore Community Fellowship of Faith bility of tunneling by eval- The benefits include avoid- TROL DISTRICT Church located at 444 Maxey Road, Robert Dixon II, Pastor. Breakfast was provided and uating the hydraulic ing impacts to surface The Harris County many topics of concern about the community were discussed. capacity of tunnels, devel- structures and property Flood Control District oping schedules and cost and potentially offering (HCFCD) provides flood projections, and by com- flood damage reduction damage reduction projects paring geotechnical condi- benefits to a larger region. that work, with appropri- tions in Harris County "Geotechnical condi- ate regard for community with other active and com- tions do not appear to and natural values. With pleted tunnel projects present any remarkable more than 1,500 bayous Carter~Conley around the United States nor non-negotiable con- and creeks totaling ap- and the world. cerns for the large diame- proximately 2,500 miles in Washington, D.C., cur- ter tunnels at this time," length, the Flood Control Funeral Home rently has two large under- said Scott Elmer, P.E., En- District accomplishes its 13701 Corpus Christi St. ground tunnels that were gineering Division Manag- mission by devising flood Houston, TX 77015 built in part for flood miti- er at Harris County Flood damage reduction plans, gation purposes. Control District. "Geologic implementing the plans "Our analysis of the geo- faults in Harris County and maintaining the infra- (713) 455-5100 technical conditions indi- may require special design structure. To learn more cate that the soil and and construction consider- about the Flood Control *Funerals *Cremations *Pre-Arrangements groundwater conditions in ations if crossed by a tun- District, visit Family Owned and Operated Harris County are similar nel, but it is not a fatal www.hcfcd.org. Since 1992 to Washington, D.C. - and www.CarterFuneral-Houston.com www.NorthChannelStar.com ✯ Page 4 NORTH CHANNEL STAR THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019 ✯ O P I N I O N P A G E ✯ ✯ THE Social POSTSCRIPT By Security Carrie Classon Matters “More Owls” First, I noticed the owl. by AMAC Certified Social Security Advisor Russell Gloor “Peter! Did you see the owl?!” Association of Mature American Citizens Our last Airbnb in Spain had a ceramic owl. So, when I found a similar owl—in a similarly inconvenient location—I took it as a good omen. Income Tax on Social Security “What owl?” my husband, Peter, said. vs. the Earnings Test Then I found four more owls, bringing our tally up to five. “Five owls! Now I know this is Dear Rusty: I retired Security will withhold going to be a good trip!” from work this year (age some of your benefits – $1 “Huh,” Peter agreed. 62) and I will receive my for every $2 you are over (Sometimes Peter’s not as first social security bene- the limit. If that is what effusive as I am.) fits in September. Is there you're referring to then, We are staying in Frigiliana, a a special rule for the first yes, there is a special rule small town in the south of Spain. year you retire that allows for the first year you are The rent was suspiciously you to not pay taxes on collecting Social Security. cheap, but the reviews were all your social security since That special first year rule good except to say that the you have earned no other says that if you claim ben- Governor issues disaster declaration house was on a road with stairs. income since you retired? efits mid-year and you There is a good reason for this: Before I retired, I earned have not yet reached your the town predates wheels. about $50,000, which I full retirement age, you'll for storm-stricken counties Roads with stairs work perfectly know is more than the usu- be subject to a monthly fine if you don’t drive on them. al allowed income. Signed: earnings test for the re- We were dropped off as close Retired Senior mainder of that year, rath- AUSTIN — After severe ✯ as possible, then faced the Dear Retired Senior: er than the annual test. So, weather struck north and challenge of dragging our I'm afraid there is no such if your benefits start in on Oct. 20, Gov. STATE CAPITAL luggage up the stairs (which was "first year" rule which ex- September, provided you Greg Abbott issued a disas- actually the road) to the little blue empts you from paying in- don’t earn more than ter declaration naming a door of our house. We met our come tax on your Social $1470 in September or any list of counties in that re- HIGHLIGHTS landlady who was both Security benefits. When month thereafter in 2019 gion. By Ed Sterling informative and hardy as she you file your Federal in- you won't lose any benefits. Among the counties hefted our luggage over the come taxes with the IRS But if you do exceed that named are: Cass, Collin, cobblestone. you will need to claim your monthly limit, even by $1, , Ellis, Erath, Hunt, Peter and I have our travel Social Security (SS) bene- you won't be entitled to Kaufman, Lamar, Panola, priorities well synched. First, fits as part of your income, any SS benefits for that Rains, Rockwall, Rusk, Update: Vaping, lung Peter made ice cubes because and whether it is taxable month. The monthly test is Tarrant, Van Zandt and issues we need more ice than any will depend upon whether only in the calendar year Wood. The Texas Department European can imagine. We don’t your "modified adjusted you claim benefits - it goes “By issuing this decla- of State Health Services care. We like ice. Peter makes gross income" (MAGI) for away for you in 2020 and ration, Texas is providing has identified 147 Texas ice cubes in small plastic cups the year exceeds $25,000 you'll be subject to the an- local officials with the re- cases of severe lung disease he brings along. “Wonderful ice cubes!” Peter (if you file single) or nual earnings test only for sources they need to quick- in people who reported they remarks, every time he does this. $32,000 (if you file mar- next year. ly respond and recover had “vaped” before develop- Then we found the tourism ried-filing jointly). "MAGI" Please note that the from this storm,” Abbott ing symptoms. One of the office (there actually was one!) includes your taxable in- earnings limits are consid- said. In addition to provid- patients has died. after we took a wrong turn and come from all sources (your erably more if you are ing access to state resourc- In its Oct. 22 weekly up- asked directions at the gelato “adjusted gross income” claiming in the year you es, the declaration waived date on the use of e-ciga- shop. I did not have a gelato as it from your Federal income will reach your full retire- certain regulations to rettes (“vaping”) and lung was threatening to rain and no tax return), plus any tax- ment age. If this were the make it easier for utility disease, the agency report- one likes to eat gelato in the rain. exempt interest you may year you will reach your companies to bring in out- ed that state health offi- Plus, I had just polished off an have received, plus half of full retirement age, the of-state resources to assist cials are gathering more in restoring power. entire bag of cookies I bought your annual Social Securi- annual limit would be pendable high-speed in- information about 17 oth- The storm brought high just to see if they were any good. ty benefits. If your MAGI $46,920 and the monthly ternet for everything from er possible cases to deter- winds, heavy rains and at (They were.) exceeds the above levels, limit would be $3910 educational and medical mine whether they are least four tornadoes. Tor- Then we went to the big then up to 50% of your So- (these limits change annu- services to agricultural consistent with the symp- nadic action ravaged a grocery store which was not big cial Security benefits will ally). However, if you stay technology and online toms and substance use swath 40 miles long but had everything we needed. become a part of your tax- fully retired and don’t re- sales.” seen in cases in Texas and through the Dallas area, They had a lot of vegetables and able income; or if you ex- turn to work you will not Air monitoring 48 other states. causing widespread de- a variety of beans, including ceed $34,000 (filing single) need to worry about the increases Respiratory symptoms struction in residential ar- some I could not identify. So, or $44,000 (filing married- Social Security earnings The Texas Commission include difficulty breath- eas and businesses, forcing naturally, I bought them. It turns jointly) then up to 85% of test but, depending on on Environmental Quali- ing, shortness of breath and many closures and result- out they were mammoth fava your annual SS benefits your “MAGI,” you may ty is enhancing its air- coughing. Some people ing in the loss of electrical beans with skin still on them. will become taxable. If you need to pay income taxes monitoring capabilities have also experienced nau- power to tens of thousands Who knew fava beans had skin? don't exceed those levels on your Social Security thanks to new equipment sea, vomiting and diarrhea. of customers. Who knew it had to be removed? your SS benefits aren't tax- benefits. funded by the Texas Leg- Clinicians are urged to ask able as income. Damages attributed to Peter made soup with the islature and savings from patients with these symp- fava beans. After the soup was However, I suspect you This article is intended the storm, currently esti- the agency’s 2019 budget. toms about a history of va- cooked, Peter fished the beans may be confusing income for information purposes mated at more than $2 bil- The Legislature grant- ping, gather as much out of the soup and skinned tax on your Social Securi- only and does not represent lion, continue to be ed TCEQ’s request to information as possible them. This is not the recom- ty benefits with another legal or financial guidance. updated. equip up to three new ve- about suspected cases, and mended order of operations. rule - Social Security's It presents the opinions Report: The digital hicles with real-time, mo- report them to DSHS. “It’s not that bad!” Peter said. "earnings test" which, if and interpretations of the divide bile air-monitoring Nationally, 1,479 cases “It’s like shucking shrimp!” (Peter you have not yet reached AMAC Foundation’s staff, More than two million technology. Meanwhile, have been reported. The is such a romantic.) your full retirement age, trained and accredited by Texas households still do budget savings are being DSHS and agencies in oth- Then I went up to the sets a limit on what you not have access to high- the National Social Secu- used to fund the installa- er states are working with bathroom and opened the door can earn without your ben- speed internet service. rity Association (NSSA). tion of three new automat- the U.S. Centers for Dis- to the rooftop terrace. The efit payments being affect- Those findings are in- NSSA and the AMAC ed gas chromatograph air ease Control and Preven- bathroom is upstairs, all by itself, ed. If you are collecting cluded in the top story of Foundation and its staff monitoring stations in the tion and the Food and Drug and the entrance to the terrace is benefits before you have the October edition of “Fis- are not affiliated with or Houston area and the pur- Administration to gather through the bathroom. (It is an reached your full retire- cal Notes,” a monthly pub- endorsed by the Social Se- chase of new handheld air evidence about what the unusual arrangement.) Outside I lication produced by the ment age and you exceed curity Administration or monitors. cases have in common and discovered two cats on the roof comptroller’s office. the annual earnings limit any other governmental Previously TCEQ’s to determine a cause. who immediately made it clear The story says the digi- ($17,640 for 2019) Social entity. vans were equipped with AGs target online they were expecting a handout. I tal divide between urban instruments only capable sales rustled up some milk. I am quite and rural Texans "has se- of collecting data while Texas Attorney General sure they will show up tomorrow rious implications for edu- stationary and required a Ken Paxton on Oct. 22 an- expecting bigger things. cation, telemedicine, time-consuming process to nounced he has joined a bi- Of course, not everything agriculture and small busi- deploy and calibrate. The partisan coalition of 47 could go well. We failed to find ness.” newly equipped vans will state and territorial attor- any kitchen towels—which now Texas Comptroller Glen provide the ability for rap- neys general in calling on constitutes an emergency. (A Hegar commented about id survey assessments, al- Facebook, Craigslist and person needs at least one minor the story in an Oct. 23 lowing the agency to eBay to take action against emergency just to keep sharp.) news release, saying, “It’s quickly sample pollutant alcohol sales on their plat- We went to bed early. It a wired world today and we hot spots, map air concen- forms. started to rain. There had not can’t expect our state to trations, and identify loca- A letter from the coali- been much rain, so everyone flourish unless we make tions for sampling over tion asks the companies to: was grateful. I was lying in bed sure as many Texans as longer durations. —Review the current when I saw it. possible have access to de- content posted to their web- “Peter! Another owl!” sites and to remove illegal The church bells stop ringing postings for the sales and/ at 10:00 pm. At least, I think they or transfer of alcohol prod- do, as that is the last thing I ucts; and remember. H I G H L A N D S C R O S B Y —Develop and deploy “Six owls!” I said to Peter, as programming to block and the church bells rang. ✯ prevent platform users “Umm,” Peter replied. I could StarStar✯CourierCourier from violating state laws. tell he was impressed. USPS 244-500 Coalition members also and the invited the companies to Till next time, join them in forming a work Carrie Barbers Hill✯Dayton PRESS group with stakeholders from government and in- Carrie Classon’s memoir, “Blue Yarn,” was released earlier Editor & Publisher...... Gilbert Hoffman dustry to explore how to Associate Publisher...... Mei-Ing Liu Hoffman establish protocols for pre- this year. Learn more at Assoc. Editor/Advertising Manager.....Lewis Spearman venting illegal alcohol CarrieClasson.com. Assistant Editor...... Julieta Paita sales. Production Manager...... Luis Hernandez Asst. Production Manager...... Gerardo Hernandez Entered as Periodicals Class at Highlands Post Office, Highlands, TX 77562. Under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. Published 50 weeks per year, on Thursday, by Grafikpress Corp., 5906 Star Lane, Houston, TX 77057. Opinions in this paper are those of the au- thors, and not necessarily this newspaper’s. Any erroneous statement which may appear will be corrected when brought to the attention of the publisher. Liability for errors is limited to the reprinting of the corrected version. Submissions are encouraged, in person, by mail, by Fax, or by email, to [email protected].

GRAFIKPRESS is publisher of community newspapers, including Highlands STAR-Crosby COURIER; Barbers Hill Dayton PRESS; Northeast NEWS; North Forest NEWS, North Chan- nel STAR. Combined circulation of these newspapers exceeds 50,000, Readership exceeds 110,000 according to industry standards. We also print dozens of school, ethnic, and government publications on contract. Call for information to 713-977-2555. SUBSCRIPTION RATES: In-county, $28.00 per year. Out of county, $35.00 per Year. POST- MASTER: Send address changes to Star-Courier, P. O. Box 405, Highlands, TX 77562 News and Ad Phones....713-977-0270 FAX Line....713-977-1188 email: [email protected] Member Texas Press Association THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019 NORTH CHANNEL✯STAR Page 5 ✯ L I F E S T Y L E P A G E ✯

Robert Eugene ✯ feet of Jesus. Historical Society Hughes She was known for her love of life and adventure, as well as her competitive views old Crosby spirit. In addition to being OBITUARIES an avid checkers player and die-hard Astros fan, she enjoyed riding her bi- photos cycle, parasailing, and tub- ing well into her ‘80s. She The Crosby Historical Melba Robles Ortiz stayed active with yoga Society held their quarter- and exercise classes, loved ly meeting last Saturday, Melba Robles Ortiz, 84, to dance, and attended ev- Oct. 19 at the Brethren joined her Lord and Savior ery quinceañera, gradua- Church hall. Jesus Christ on Oct. 22, tion, and wedding she The members and 2019. She was born on Aug. could, often being the last guests, totalling about 75 5, 1935 in Laredo, TX, and on the dance floor. She was persons, were given a pre- lived in Channelview, TX, proud of her children view of Jody Fuchs histor- for 55 years. She was pre- Ramiro, Antonio, and ical picture book “Two Robert Eugene Hughes, ceded in death by her hus- Mary, as well as her grand- Hundred Years: Crosby’s Sr., 92, passed away October band Ramiro G. Ortiz, son-in-law Jackie, who Bicentennial Story.” 25, 2019 in Pasadena, Texas. parents Blas and Angela served in the US Marine Fuchs has been collect- Robert was born on April 23, (Pedraza) Robles, sister Corps. She also had the ing photos for about two 1927 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Aurora Robles, and broth- honor of attending the great-grandchildren, and 2 years, and has amassed an ers Antonio Robles, Blas 243rd Marine Corps Ball Jody Fuchs parents Claude and Viola great-great-grandchildren. impressive archive of Robles, Daniel Robles, in Camp Pendleton, CA, for (Gray) Hughes. He was a She was an active mem- about 3500 photos, out of for the upcoming BiCen- WWII veteran, and Robert David Robles, and Jose the 5th Marine Regiment. ber of St. Andrew Roman about 40,000 that he has tennial event, and is look- Guadalupe Robles. She is Visitation will be on Mon., proudly served his country in Catholic Church of Chan- screened. ing for other old or survived by her sisters De- Oct. 28 from 5–8 pm at the Army, 86th Ordinance, nelview for almost 50 Crosby was settled in interesting photos of the 147th Company, as well as in lia Casablanca of San An- Carter-Conley Funeral years. She gave selflessly 1823, making it one of the community. He is working tonio, TX, Elidia Robles of Home, 13701 Corpus the Coast Guard as a Mer- of her time, talents, and oldest settlements in Tex- with members of the Cros- Corpus Christi, TX, and Christi St., Houston. Visi- chant Marine. At the conclu- heart in many volunteer as. It will celebrate its Bi- by Historical Society, Don- sion of the war, Robert met Dolores Torres (Raymond) tation and rosary will be at activities, caring for com- centennial in 2023. na Davenport and Klaus of Pasadena, TX; by her 5 pm on Tues., Oct. 29 at and married the love of his munity members even Lifetime resident Jody Duda. brothers Santiago Robles St. Andrew Catholic life, Derna Maria (Memmo) when struggling herself. Fuchs, is preparing a pho- Some of these photos and they enjoyed 70 years of (Lala) of Lake Forest, CA, Church, 827 Sheldon Rd., She was involved in the tographic history of the are also on Facebook, with Joe L. Robles (Rose) of San Channelview (rosary at marriage until her passing in church as a eucharistic community in preparation new postings regularly. Diego, CA, and Richard 6:30 pm, refreshments af- 2017. He enjoyed fishing and minister, as a member of he also had fun going to the Robles (Benita) of Pasade- terward in the parish hall). the “Double Nickel” social na, TX; by her sisters-in- Funeral mass will be on casinos. group, counting weekend law Lili Robles of Corpus Wed., Oct. 30 at 11:30 am Robert will be remembered offerings, and other church as a dedicated and loving fa- Christi, TX, Delia Robles of at St. Andrew Catholic services, such as visiting Houston, TX, and Dolores Church. Friends and fami- ther, grandfather and friend. those who were home- Bolanos of Corpus Christi, ly will gather for intern- He is preceded in death by his bound or in nursing wife, Derna Maria Hughes; TX; and by her brother-in- ment at 2 pm at Houston homes. She was also active law Juan Ortiz of Phoenix, National Cemetery, 10410 granddaughters, Bethanny in Catholic Daughters of AZ. Veterans Memorial Dr., and Caitlyn Hughes; half- the Americas #2068, Le- brothers, Norman J. “Toodles” She will be remem- Houston under the direc- gion of Mary, Vincentian bered as a loving mother, tion of Carter-Conley Fu- Hughes and Donald “Don” Society of St. Vincent De grandmother, great-grand- neral Home. Hughes. Robert is survived Paul, and St. Andrew’s An- by his children, Lilly Hughes mother, and great-great nual Bazaar, among oth- and partner, Dennis W. Ren- grandmother. She is sur- vived by her children ers. Even with these fro, Robert E. Hughes, Jr. and volunteer activities, she wife LeeAnn, Roger Hughes Ramiro Ortiz (Wanda), An- Railroad and Town Center, now FM2100. was always there for her and wife Jerri; grandchildren, tonio Ortiz (Susan), Mary Ortiz-Dvorak, Raymond children, grandchildren, Austin Hughes, Zackery and their families. She also Hughes, Jarred Hughes; Ortiz, Richard Ortiz opened her loving home great-grandchildren, Kandis (Sylvia), Melbie Vinson (Chuck), Angie Wolf (Jon), and heart to her children’s 13701 Corpus Christi St., Golden, Kolby Hughes, Tuck- friends whenever they Houston, TX 77015 er Hughes, Tred Hughes; half- Mandy Ortiz, and Carlos were in need. She will be 713-455-5100 sister, Vel McAllister; as well Ortiz (Theresa). Her lega- cy includes her 23 grand- remembered as truly dem- www.CarterFuneral- as extended family members onstrating the hands and Houston.com and friends. children, 31 Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, Original Crosby schoolhouse, with biplane. October 31, 2019 in the chap- el of Carter-Conley Funeral Home with Pastor Kent Wil- son to officiate. Graveside services with military honors BIBLE kingdom was called ... ? 5. Who said, "Be sure will follow at 1:00 P.M. in Mesopotamia, Egypt, your sin will find you Houston National Cemetery TRIVIA Judah, Syria out"? Matthew, David, under the direction of Carter- Noah, Moses Conley Funeral Home. 3. From Luke 13, by Wilson Casey--- which king was re- 6. Jebus is another ferred to by Jesus as name for ... ? Jericho, 1. Is the book of 1 "that fox"? Herod, Jerusalem, Judah, Peter in the Old or New Solomon, Ahab, Caesar Joshua Testament or neither? 4. What was a 2. At the time of Persian gold coin also ANSWERS: 1) New; 13701 Corpus Christi St., Rehoboam there was a used by the Hebrews? 2) Judah; 3) Herod; 4) Houston, TX 77015 split: The Kingdom of 713-455-5100 Loon, Daric, Denarius, Daric; 5) Moses; 6) Israel was in the north, www.CarterFuneral- Falc Jerusalem Houston.com while the southern

WESTON COTTEN, ATTORNEY Complete Line of Groceries HIGHLANDS 281-421-4050 1500 E. Wallisville Rd. KWIK MART FOODS NOT CERTIFIED BY THE TEXAS BOARD OF LEGAL 14443 FM 1409 281-576-5788 SPECIALIZATION

Heal me, LORD, and I will be healed; save me & I will be saved, for you are the one I praise --Jeremiah 17:14

LOVE NEVER FAILS I Corinthians 13:8

Siding & CALL 713-266-3444 FOR A QUOTE TO REACH MORE THAN 7,000 Roof Repairs READERS WEEKLY Mobile Home Skirting Call Mr. Roofer I can do all things 281-452-0000 through Christ who strengthens me. PHILIPPIANS 4:13 What we suffer now is nothing compared Call to the glory He will reveal to us later GRAFIKSHOP ROMANS 8:18 for printing jobs ENVELOPES Printed with your Address 713-977-2555 1 or 2 colors Special Rates 250 to 25,000 Pride only breeds quarrels, Please call for a Quote but wisdom is found in Grafikshop at Star-Courier 713-977-2555 those who take advice. ✯ Page 6 NORTH CHANNEL STAR THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019 ASK THE EXPERT 5 Important ASK DIAMOND JIM CHARLOTTE’S Medicare Changes WEB Coming For 2020 Diamond Jim: "How Restored and (NAPSI)—If you’re en- The average Medicare pre- is natural yellow rolled in a Medicare Ad- scription drug plan premi- vantage plan, or are um for 2020 is $30, a Renewed considering one, you will decline of 13.5% as com- gold made into have more plan choices pared with 2019 costs. Sav- Working to restore provide for their with a wider range of ben- ings on out-of-pocket costs white or rose gold?" an automobile that has children. Over the efits to help you better may be available as well. manage your day-to-day A recent eHealth analysis been damaged and years, they have built a health needs during this of people using dented is not an easy reputation of caring for year’s open enrollment eHealthMedicare.com to Gold is a chemical ele- Rose, red, and pink gold job. Raising children the community. As period. compare Medicare plans ment with the symbol Au Rose gold is a gold and as a single parent is active members of Medicare’s Annual En- found that fewer than one (from Latin: aurum) and copper alloy widely used not an easy job either. several Chambers of the atomic number 79. In rollment Period, which in ten were enrolled in the for specialized jewelry. What do these two Commerce, they give its purest form, it is a Rose gold, also known as runs from Oct. 15 through lowest cost plan for their situations have in back in many ways Dec. 7, gives Medicare en- personal prescription drug bright, slightly reddish yel- pink gold and red gold, was low, dense, soft, malleable popular in Russia at the common? For the past from door prizes at rollees a chance to revisit regimen. Those who 20 years, Bates Colli- meetings to sponsoring their Medicare insurance and ductile metal. Gold is beginning of the nine- switched to their optimal sion Owners Lee and many events. Ask any coverage, make sure it drug plan stood to save an commonly formed into teenth century, and was still fits their needs and average of $900 per year. bars or coin for use in mon- also known as Russian Leila Bates have been of their employees and make changes for the com- 4. Seeing a doctor with- etary exchange. Gold is the gold although this term is touching lives by giving they will tell you that ing year. out leaving home will get most malleable of all met- now obsolete. Rose gold away refurbished cars the company feels more Online health insur- easier. Many seniors will als; a single gram can be jewelry is becoming more to deserving parents like family than a ance broker eHealth out- have access to Medicare beaten into a sheet of 1 popular in the 21st centu- who have children business. square meter, and an lines five of the most Advantage telehealth ben- ry and is commonly used enrolled in the Harris ounce into 300 square feet. for wedding rings, brace- Last year, just hours important Medicare efits to connect with health County Department of changes to be aware of care providers online or by Gold leaf can be beaten lets, and other jewelry. after the Vehicle Give thin enough to become Although the names are Education Head Start Away, Lee Bates this year: phone. For 2020, more than Program. 1. New benefits to help half of all Medicare Advan- transparent. The transmit- often used interchange- suffered some major those with chronic illness. tage plans will offer added ted light appears greenish ably, the difference be- Early in the calendar health difficulties yet Starting in January, 2020, telehealth benefits, reach- blue, because gold strong- tween red, rose, and pink year, the Bates pur- no sooner did the news some Medicare Advantage ing up to about 1.7 million ly reflects yellow and red. gold is the copper content: chase two vehicles at a spread, than the Such semi-transparent Plans will include benefits enrollees. the higher the copper con- car auction and em- prayers started sheets also strongly reflect tent, the stronger the red for people with chronic ill- 5. Medigap plan options ployees donate their throughout the North ness that will help to sup- are changing. Two of the infrared light, making coloration. Pink gold uses them useful as infrared the least copper, followed talent and time outside Channel and Baytown port their care. A few most popular supplemen- of working hours to communities. There examples include nutri- tal plans (so-called Medi- (radiant heat) shields in vi- by rose gold, with red gold tion services, transporta- gap plans) used by those sors of heat-resistant suits, having the highest copper have the car returned were weeks of email tion to doctor’s enrolled in original Medi- and in sun-visors for space- content. to showroom condition. updates and more appointments and home care—Plan F and Plan C— suits. Gold is a good con- Rose gold They work with their prayers. Yet in the improvements like show- will no longer be available ductor of heat and Also known as "Crown vendors to be able to do midst of the health er grips and wheelchair to new Medicare members electricity and reflects in- Gold". the repairs as cost struggles, the Bates access. More traditional or those born after Janu- frared radiation strongly. The highest karat ver- effective as possible. family continued to do White Gold services like dental care, ary 1, 1955. Fortunately, sion of rose gold is also After school resumes in what they do best— White gold is an alloy of known as crown gold, vision care and hearing Plan G, another Medigap the fall, they work in they led by example. aids also have been ex- policy, offers the same lev- gold and at least one white which is 22 karat. Eigh- metal, usually nickel, man- teen karat red gold may be conjunction with Head They operated both panded. el of coverage provided by Start Center Managers locations with integrity 2. Medicare Advantage Plan F—minus the Part B ganese or palladium. Like made of 25% copper and premiums will be lower deductible—and will con- yellow gold, the purity of 75% gold. For 18 karat rose to find two deserving and love. If you were next year. The average tinue to be available after white gold is given in kar- gold, typically about 4% families to receive the not aware of the health monthly premium for January 2020. The Part B ats. A common white gold silver is added to 75% gold vehicles. The parents issues, you would have Medicare Advantage deductible was $185 in formulation consists of 90 and 21% copper to give a are selected after a never known as they plans is expected to be $23 2019. wt.% gold and 10 wt.% rose color. 14 karat red gold review of criteria that continued to be a in 2020, a decrease of 14% Even if you’re happy nickel. Copper can be add- is often found in the Mid- qualifies them for the leader in the communi- ed to increase malleability. from an average of $26.87 your Medicare coverage, dle East and contains Bates Collison Respon- ty. During the journey The alloys used in jew- 41.67% copper. in 2019, and down 28 per- eHealth recommends that sible Parenting Award. of the past year, their cent since 2017. The aver- you review your current elry industry are gold–pal- High-end musical flutes ladium–silver and are very commonly made Then around early bonds have become age Medicare Advantage coverage during open en- November, they begin stronger as a family premium this year is the rollment because each year gold–nickel–copper–zinc. of solid rose gold, the most lowest it’s been since plans can and do make Palladium and nickel act common being 14K. to invite their commu- and they have re- 2007. changes in costs, physician as primary bleaching Thank you for reading nity partners and mained committed to 3. Part D drug plan pre- networks or drug benefits. agents for gold; zinc acts as the “Ask Diamond Jim” col- friends to donate items setting an example for miums will be lower, too. a secondary bleaching umn and for supporting for the family such as others to follow. agent to attenuate the col- the North Channel Star gasoline cards, gifts for As we move into the or of copper. The nickel Newspaper! the children, car used in some white gold holidays, take time to alloys can cause an aller- Diamond Jim is a insurance, gift cards look for those in our gic reaction when worn diamond dealer and for groceries and much community who give over long periods (also no- precious metals broker of more. And then in back, not just mone- NTR Metals. See more at: NORTH CHANNEL tably on some wrist-watch mid-December, the tarily but with leader- casings). This reaction, www.pineforestjewelry.com. crowd gathers and the If you have questions ship and love. If you typically a minor skin excitement fills the air. would like to be a part rash, occurs in about one pertaining to jewelry, The smiles are price- BUSINESS DIRECTORY watches, diamonds, of donating to make the out of eight people and be- less. cause of this, many coun- precious stones, precious holidays special for the tries do not use nickel in metals, and other ques- The Bates have a two families being their white gold formula- tions related to the strong faith that blessed this Christmas, tions. jewelry industry, email extends not just to reach out to Bates [email protected]. their family and their Collision and get the business, but to their details of the needs. Be employees and the a part of restoring hope community. They and bringing a renewed EILEEN BRIGHTWELL, DDS recognize the sacrifice joy to the families. We www.brightwelldental.com that single parents are blessed to be in a often make in order to community of love. 1820 Holland St. • Jacinto City, TX 77029 (713) 455-7923

Free Estimates Financing Available

Siding & Contracting LLC 281-452-0000 New Roofs • Repairs • Painting • Hardi Plank Siding • Mobile Home Skirting P.O. Box 914, Channelview, TX 77530 [email protected] = Major credit cards accepted =

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NORTH CHANNEL✯STAR 5906 STAR LANE, HOUSTON, TX 77057 713-266-3444 • FAX (713) 977-1188 email: [email protected] website: www.northchannelstar.com Gilbert Hoffman...... Editor & Publisher Mei-Ing Hoffman...... Associate Publisher Julieta Paita...... Assistant Editor Willie Glasgow...... Marketing Director Lewis Spearman...... Advertising Director Luis Hernandez...... Production Director Gerardo Hernandez...... Circulation/Mail Director Published each Wednesday by GrafikPress Corp. Any erroneous statement which may appear will be corrected when brought to the attention of the publisher. Liability for errors is limited to the reprinting of the corrected ver- www.facebook.com/ sion. Submissions are encouraged, in person, by mail, by Fax, or by email, to: [email protected] Member North Channel Chamber of Commrce NorthChannelStar Member Texas Press Association THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019 NORTH CHANNEL✯STAR Page 7

Call 713-266-3444 CLASSIFIEDCLASSIFIED Your AD will reach up to 120,000 readers in our FIVE newspapers, with a combined circulation of 40,000 copies. Get ACTION on your AD. Rates ADSADS start at only $16 for 20 words. A bargain!

Only 16 HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTED LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE dollars for NOTICE TO BIDDERS 20 words, SALES REPRESENTATIVE INTERN AT A NEWSPAPER Part Time Position available for Part Time Position available for Sealed proposals for Construction of the 2019 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation project to serve the Newspaper ad sales person for the 40,000 person interested in learning all Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 50 in Harris County, Texas will be received at the office of copies. Aldine and North Channel areas. phases of the news business. Will Harris County MUD 50, 12900 Crosby-Lynchburg, Crosby, TX 77532, until 1:00 P.M. local time, Set your own hours. Commission experience writing, interviewing, November 14, 2019 and then publicly opened. A NON-MANDATORY BUT HIGHLY Call (713) basis means you can earn more. sourcing, computer layout, ad sales, RECOMMENDED PRE-BID CONFERENCE will be held at the office of Harris County MUD 50 on Bilingual helpful. Car required. 266-3444 record keeping, promotions. Send November 6, 2019 at 1:00 P.M. Each bid must be submitted in a 9” x 12” envelope and accompanied Send resume to letter of interest to by Cashier’s Check or Bid Bond, duly executed, in the amount of not less than five (5%) percent of [email protected]. [email protected]. the bid. The Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 50 is proposing to rehabilitate a portion of the existing sanitary sewer collection system within the District and the adjoining service area. Project work consists of point repairs of existing sanitary sewers, grease removal, root removal, pipe bursting, cured-in-place pipe lining, manhole inflow protection dish installation, manhole rehabilitation, and manhole cover replacement. The scope also includes the replacement of a force main under an existing Harris County roadway. The project pavement demolition and reconstruction, storm water pollution prevention plan and traffic control plan will be performed as necessary.

This project is eligible for CWSRF funding; therefore, the following requirements apply: • This contract is contingent upon release of funds from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB)." • "Any contract or contracts awarded under this Invitation for Bid (IFB) or Request for Qualifications (RFQ) are expected to be funded in part by financial assistance from the TWDB. Neither the State of Texas nor any of its departments, agencies, or employees are or will be a party to this IFB, RFQ, or any resulting contract. • This project is subject to the American Iron and Steel (AIS) requirements of P.L. 113- 76Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014. All iron and steel products for construction, alteration, maintenance, or repairs incorporated in these plans must be produced in the United States. • "Equal Opportunity in Employment - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, handicap or national origin. Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the President's Executive Order No. 11246, as amended by Executive Order 11375, and as supplemented in Department of Labor regulations 41 CFR Part 60." • This contract is subject to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) "fair share policy", which includes EPA-approved "fair share goals" for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE) firms in the Construction, Supplies, Equipment, and Services procurement categories. EPA's policy requires that applicants and prime contractors make a good faith effort to award a fair share of contracts, subcontracts, and procurements to Minority Business Enterprise and Women-Owned Business Enterprise firms. Although EPA's policy does not mandate that the fair share goals be achieved, it does require applicants and prime contractors to demonstrate use of the six affirmative steps. The current fair share goals for the State of Texas are as follows:

CATEGORY MBE WBE CONSTRUCTION 19.44% 9.17% SUPPLIES 25.34% 8.82% EQUIPMENT 16.28% 11.45% SERVICES 20.41% 13.66%

• Equal Opportunity in Employment – All qualified Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or handicap. The contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 40 CFR Part 33 in the award and administration of contracts awarded under TWDB financial assistance agreements. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach, which may result in the termination of the awarded financial assistance. • Right to reject any and all bids. • All laborers and mechanics working on the work site and employed by contractors and subcontractors on projects funded directly by or assisted in whole or in part by and through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund shall be paid wages as described in the section, Mandatory David-Bacon Act Contract Conditions. • Any contracts in excess of $2,000 for construction, alteration or repair (including painting and decorating and funded under the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs shall include the Mandatory David-Bacon Act Contract Conditions.

Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from www.CivCastUSA.com: Search Harris County MUD No. 50 - 2019 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation. Questions deadline is November 8th at 5:00 P.M. Bidders must register on this website in order to view and/or download specifications, and plans for this project. There is NO charge to view or download documents.

LEGAL NOTICES APPEAR IN THE HIGHLANDS STAR CROSBY COURIER, AND THE NORTH CHANNEL STAR. CALL 713-266-3444 FOR MORE INFO. ✯ Page 8 NORTH CHANNEL STAR THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2019

Galena Park, North Shore Mustangs, Continued from page 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 John Villalobos # 87 remained flawless North Shore has a home district game kicking a 39 yard field goal plus 7 extra with Beaumont United (Beaumont, TX) points for the Mustangs. on Friday, November 1 @ 7pm.

Eli Quintero, #2 Galena Park running back keeps his knee off the turf while stretching the ball across the goal for a touchdown. Photo by Allan Jamail attack. It appeared the Patri- ots were expecting either Marcus Cockrell, #18 Mustangs Special Team Spectacular one-handed catch by Mustang quarterback Amarion Kelly player runs back a 64 yard blocked punt for #14, Charles King for a TD. or running back Eli Quinte- a touchdown. Photo by Allan Jamail Photo by Allan Jamail ro to run with the ball, the running game had 49 carries and only 5 passes were at- tempted. The Yellowjackets travel to play the New Caney – Por- ter Spartans on Friday, No- vember 1st at 7:00 PM at Randall Reed Stadium, Amarion Kelly, #4 Galena Park quarterback scores a TD 21360 Valley Ranch Pkwy -- New Caney, Texas 77357. on a 58 yard keeper play. Photo by Allan Jamail

Julian Villalobos, #99 Yellowjackets kicker makes a 35 yard field goal. Photo by Allan Jamail Wendell Demery, #35 Mustangs Special Team player runs back 80 yards on a blocked extra point for a 2 point score. Photo by Allan Jamail Mustang #9, quarterback Dematrius Davis scores on a 46 yard keeper play. Photo by Allan Jamail

Global Day Care, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 and they are very proud of scaping, and installed flag poles behind both their neighborhood, so it signs. During the event, the volunteers had was important to us to help a flag raising ceremony to commemorate the them recover from this occasion, symbolizing the perseverance and storm event.” pride of the neighborhood. Employees from Lyon- “We can’t thank LyondellBasell enough dellBasell’s PO/TBA for the help they have provided our neigh- project team had made im- borhood over the years,” said Quentin Klaus, provements to the signage president of the Rio Villa home owner’s as- earlier in September as sociation. “Even though they have helped part of the company’s 20th us during other flood events, this project was annual Global Care Day special because we all came together to event, but heavy rain from make these improvements happen, despite Imelda on Sept. 19 caused the setback from the storm. Our entrance the San Jacinto River to looks amazing and it’s a point of pride ev- flood its banks and inun- ery time we come home.” date the neighborhood. The signs survived, but they and the entrance area were covered in mucky de- bris, undoing some of the previous work of the volun- teers. That made them even more determined to restore the signs and the entrance. “We were not about to let a little water get in the way of our original com- mitment to the neighbor- hood to make improvements to the front entrance. It just delayed our work a bit,” said Gasper. The PO/TBA team along with several neighborhood residents set to work to fin- ish what Imelda almost destroyed. They cleaned up and reinforced the stone- work on the signs, added new sod at the entrance, re-planted two large Queen Palms that were knocked down during the storm, added new land- Rio Villa sign flooded duting Imelda

Rio Villa sign after work completed.

Clearing area