Bay Area Edition | March 2024

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Bay Area Edition VOLUME 6, ISSUE 8 MARCH 28APRIL 27, 2024

Blast o A SpaceX rocket carrying a payload from Houston-based Intuitive Machines launches toward space Feb. 15 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The payload landed Feb. 22 and gathered data from the moon.

COURTESY NASA

Aerospace industry in Houston set to boom as numerous projects hit key milestones

It ended with Texas A&M signing a lease with NASA to build a $200 million space institute at Johnson Space Center. The projects are some exam- ples of eorts to achieve new feats in outer space.

which is headquartered at Houston Spaceport, launching a payload to the moon from Florida. “It’s like when your team makes the playos,” said Jim Szczesniak, aviation director for the Hous- ton Airport System, which oversees the spaceport.

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

Feb. 15 was a day to remember for Houston’s aerospace industry. Two projects with Houston origins passed key landmarks. It started with Intuitive Machines,

CONTINUED ON 18

Also in this issue

Impacts: Space Center Houston displays asteroid sample (Page 6)

Development: Great Wolf Lodge to open ahead of schedule (Page 8)

Election: See who’s running in May for CCISD’s board (Page 13)

Community: Candle shop goes from hobby to business (Page 15)

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

At Kelsey-Seybold, our OB/GYNs, pediatricians, and after-hours nurses are not only connected to you – they’re connected to each other. It’s a collaborative approach that helps ensure you and your baby get world-class care. And, as every new parent quickly discovers, it’s good to have connections. Connected to you from pregnancy to pediatrics.

Bay Area Campus 1010 S. Ponds Dr. Webster, TX 77598

Pasadena Clinic 5001 E. Sam Houston Pkwy. S. Pasadena, TX 77505

South Shore Harbour Clinic 3625 E League City Pkwy. League City, TX 77573

24/7 Appointment Scheduling: 713-442-0000

BAY AREA EDITION

Care you need. One convenient location. A variety of health care services for you and your family is always close by. Our Convenient Care Centers offer primary care, imaging, physical therapy and a 24/7 ER. Schedule an appointment at any of our seven locations. memorialhermann.org/ccc

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Shaheryar Khan Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning Jessica Shorten Lizzy Spangler Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Jatziri Garcia Ellen Jackson Matt Mills Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White

Papar Faircloth General Manager pfaircloth@ communityimpact.com

James T. Norman Editor jnorman@ communityimpact.com

Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Account Executive Anita Gomez Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt

Jason Culpepper Publisher jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases baynews@communityimpact.com Advertising bayads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

communityimpact.com @communityimpactnews

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.

We are ENROLLING NOW for our newest location in Webster! Don’t wait to enroll your Pre-K - 8th grade student. Use the QR code to learn more about Odyssey Academy and to reserve your spot today! NEW LOCATION OPENING FALL 2024!

14650 OLD Galveston Rd Webster, TX 77598

BAY AREA EDITION

Impacts

4 Kura Revolving Sushi Bar The technology-enabled Japanese restaurant serves its dishes, which include sushi, nigiri, noodles and desserts, on a conveyer belt. Drinks are delivered tableside by

W. FAIRMONT PKWY.

AIRPORT BLVD.

NEW W DR.

W. FAIRMONT PKWY.

Kur-B the KuraBot. • Opened Feb. 23 • 1065 W. Bay Area Blvd., Ste. 230, Webster • www.kurasushi.com

146

S. BROADWAY ST.

NEW DECADE DR.

ARMAND BAYOU NATURE CENTER

5 Velvet Taco The restaurant offers a large assortment of options, including buffalo chicken, chicken and waffles, bacon burgers and Korean fried rice tacos. • Opened Feb. 26 • 1065 W. Bay Area Blvd., Ste. 100, Webster • www.velvettaco.com 6 StretchLab The business offers stretch services for people, including sessions for both individuals and groups. • Grand opening held Jan. 19 • 3202 Marina Bay Drive, League City • www.stretchlab.com 7 Yummy Pho & Bo Ne The Vietnamese restaurant serves pho, banh mi sandwiches, egg rolls and Vietnamese iced coffee. • Opened in early December • 19044 Gulf Freeway, Friendswood • www.baybrookmall.com 8 The Juicy Seafood The Cajun eatery specializes in seafood, such as crab, shrimp, crawfish and clams. • Opened Feb. 22 • 19026 Gulf Freeway, Friendswood • http://juicyseafoodfriendswood.kwickmenu.com 9 Home Bank The bank offers traditional services, including online banking and bill pay; loans for homes, construction and automobiles; and various account options. • Opened Jan. 29 • 19415 Gulf Freeway, Webster • www.home24bank.com

Seabrook

2351

CLEAR LAKE

W. MEDICAL CENTER BLVD.

146

GALVESTON BAY

4 5

A Y D

Nassau Bay

518

528

SOUTH SHORE BLVD.

Webster

GREAT WOLF WAY

E. WALKER ST.

LAGO MAR BLVD.

646

League City

517

CRYSTAL VIEW BLVD.

• Opened Feb. 16 • 12210 Galveston Road, Houston • www.spacecraftbbq.com

Now open

1 Dutch Bros Coffee The business is a drink chain that sells coffee, lemonade, shakes, chai lattes, seasonal drinks, energy drinks and tea. • Opened March 8 • 20720 Gulf Freeway, Webster • www.dutchbros.com 2 Space Craft BBQ & Taps The restaurant serves barbecue and beer. Some items served include brisket, ribs, turkey and sausage.

3 The Bridge for Kids The center is part of The Bridge Over Troubled Waters organization, and will centralize the organization’s resources for children. • Opened Feb. 13 • 685 Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena • www.tbotw.org

YOUR SOLUTION IS HERE. daily marketing

NEWSLETTER BANNERS

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM/ADVERTISE

(866) 989-6808

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Coming soon

In the news

10 The Craft Factory The studio will offer DIY slime, ceramic painting, canvas painting, sand art and mosaics. The shop will also host parents’ nights out, themed nights, cookie decorating classes and adult workshops. • Grand opening May 11 • 2047 W. Main St., Ste. A-9, League City 11 Daiso The retail chain sells Japanese-inspired home decor, stationery, food, beauty items and more. • Opening in April • 1225 West Bay Area Blvd., Webster • www.daisous.com 12 Killen’s Barbecue at Hobby Airport The restaurant offers a variety of barbecue, including brisket, pork ribs, sausage, turkey, wings, fried chicken, pizza and seafood platters. • Opening in the fall • Hobby Airport, 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston • www.killensbarbecue.com 13 Sports Illustrated Resort The resort will stand nine stories tall and feature 200 rooms. It will also have a number of amenities, including a lagoon, beachside cabanas and a swim-up island bar. • Opening in early 2027 • Lago Mar Information Center, 12930 Crystal View Blvd., Texas City • www.siresorts.com 14 Dunkin’ The doughnut and coffee chain will be one of 10 businesses inside the new Great Wolf Lodge resort. It is known internationally for its sweet treats and caffeinated drinks. • Opening Oct. 18 • Great Wolf Lodge, 1000 Great Wolf Way, Webster • www.dunkindonuts.com

15 Space Center Houston A sample of asteroid “Bennu” is the center of the OSIRIS-REx display in the venue’s main plaza, and opened to the public on March 1. The asteroid is 4.5 billion years old. Space Center Houston is one of three

cultural institutions in the U.S. with a cosmic relic such as asteroid Bennu.

• 1601 E. NASA Parkway, Houston • www.spacecenter.org/osiris-rex

• Relocated Jan. 31 • 304 E. Walker St., League City • Facebook: Beyond Beauty Hair Studio.LLC

Relocations

16 Queen of Pho Popular menu items include bowls of pho, spring rolls and boba tea. • Relocating in late spring • 707 W. Main St., League City • Facebook: Queen of pho 17 Rowl United The new location will place the logistics company near a few local ports, and allow it to expand its services. • Relocated Feb. 22 • 9590 New Decade Drive, Pasadena • www.rowlunited.com 18 Beyond Beauty Hair Studio The salon offers services for hair dying, cuts, updos, extensions and makeup, according to the business’s social media page.

In the news

19 CertaPro Painters of League City and Galveston

The business, which specializes in painting homes and businesses, celebrated its 10-year anniversary on Feb. 14. • 2911 South Shore Blvd., Ste. 120, League City • www.certapro.com/league-city 20 HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake The hospital earned a 3-star rating from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, which is the highest distinction for cardiovascular thoracic surgery. It is a full-service hospital. • 500 Medical Center Blvd., Webster • www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/locations/clear-lake

SPRING ESA MAINTENANCE MEMBER EXCLUSIVE OFFER SURGE PROTECTORS PLUS THE NORMAL ESA MEMBER 10% DISCOUNT AN ADDITIONAL $50 OFF

281-535-3889

WWW.TEMPERATURE-SOLUTIONS.COM

BAY AREA EDITION

Development

BY SHAHERYAR KHAN

Great Wolf Lodge’s Webster location to open in October, ahead of schedule

The impact

Great Wolf Lodge’s decision to choose Webster as the location of the resort was inuenced by the city’s Flyway Development project and other work with local ocials, Steve Jacobson, vice president of development with Great Wolf Lodge, said in an email. “We’ve been looking at the potential for a resort in the Houston area for probably six-seven years or longer,” Jacobson said in the email. “During that exploration phase, it’s kind of like dating—you continue to explore options until you nd a perfect match.” Jacobson also said the area’s potential for growth and accessibility makes it a convenient drive for families. “A Great Wolf Lodge typically draws families from a three-four hour drive radius,” Jacobson said. “Building our resort in Webster, we’re a convenient drive for families in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Beaumont, Galveston and many other neighboring communities.”

The Great Wolf Lodge will open Oct. 18 in Webster, which is ahead of the original schedule ocials previously laid out. The resort was originally expected to open in November, but should be set about a month early, said Keith Furnas, general manager of the new resort. It will feature an indoor water park, and an exclusive attraction called “the Texas Twirler,” as well as other amenities. The resort’s structure nished vertical construction Aug. 30, which was previously reported by Community Impact . The focus of work will now shift to the interior of the resort, Furnas said. “Construction is going well, which is part of the reason why we will open earlier,” Furnas said.

Great Wolf Lodge’s new location in Webster will be the second one to open in Texas.

RENDERING COURTESY GREAT WOLF LODGE

The resort will include:

The details

13 water slides, with the Texas Twirler exclusive to Webster

The Great Wolf Lodge is a $200 million project with a water park spanning 92,000 square feet, 60,000 square feet of interactive attractions, and 532 rooms and themed suites, Furnas said. Once the resort opens, 500 full- and part-time jobs are expected to be created in the area, Furnas said. It will be the second Great Wolf Lodge resort to open in Texas, with the rst one located in Grapevine.

A mini-golf course

A bowling alley

MagiQuest, a live action game

10 food and beverage vendors, including a Dunkin’

SOURCE: GREAT WOLF LODGECOMMUNITY IMPACT

6640 South Shore Blvd., Suite 100 League City, TX 77573 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org

Promotion not sponsored by the Houston Astros. Insured by NCUA

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY MELISSA ENAJE & RACHEL LELAND

Courtney Chadwell wins League City runoff race With all relevant Galveston County voting centers reporting, Courtney Chadwell won the Feb. 17 race for League City City Council Position 4, according to official results posted on the Galveston County Clerk Office website. The backstory A runoff election was triggered in January when Chadwell received 1,407 votes, or 42.6% of the total vote count, and Ange Mertens, garnered 610 votes, or 18.47% of the total, according to official election results. A candidate must have over 50% of the votes to be declared the winner, according to League City’s

League City launches new survey tool League City is seeking resident input with a new digital tool on how to develop its remaining 40% of undeveloped land. The gist Launched Jan. 8, the Talk About Town tool provides information on local business updates and newly opened businesses. It also hosts a survey to gather feedback about what type of business development residents would like to see, said Amber Pedigo, manager of community engagement and special projects. The most popular categories so far have been retail, restau- rants, developed parks and family-oriented entertainment. Respondents can rank the different types of development they’d like to see. Quote of note “It’s a tool that we can use to give to our elected officials and to our department heads that they can use as League City continues to grow,” Pedigo said.

Results breakdown

Incumbent

Winner

Headed to runoff

Runoff for League City City Council

City Council Position 4

61.68% Courtney Chadwell 38.32% Ange Mertens

SOURCE: GALVESTON COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Chadwell said in a Feb. 18 social media post fol- lowing the election. “Your support for me in this election has been humbling and I will work hard every day to not only make sure I don’t disappoint you, but to make sure I exceed your expectations.” How we got here In January, Chadwell and Mertens each garnered the most votes, triggering the runoff. Other candidates in January were Katherine Swanson, who had 608 votes, or 18.41% of the vote total, Rachel McAdam, who had 489 votes, or 14.8% of the vote total, and Chris Dodson, who had 189 votes, or 5.72% of the vote total, according to election results from League City. The election occurred after council member John Bowen resigned in November.

city charter. What else?

Following the win, Chadwell was sworn in to League City City Council Feb. 27, according to the city’s website. Prior to being elected to City Council, Chadwell has also served as a volunteer firefighter in the city. Quote of note “Thank you to [everyone] who voted for me,” Wellness on Wheels dates announced A free mobile health program is coming to every Harris County precinct this year offering communities in need with various services, including fresh food boxes from locally sourced family-owned farms and preventive mammograms. Attendees will also have access to free dental screenings and vaccinations. Pet owners will also be able to bring their pets for vaccinations and microchipping. Dates to know While the Precinct 2 event took place March 9, locations for other precincts are still to be determined.

Master plan approved for lynching memorial site Harris County commissioners approved the master plan Feb. 27 for an area in downtown Houston that will be redeveloped into Remem- brance Park—a dedicated space where residents and visitors can commemorate the actions and struggles of those who fought for social justice. 7 6 Remembrance Park Master Plan

One of the park’s main focal points in the master plan will be four markers recognizing four African-American men who were lynched in Harris County between 1890-1928, according to Harris County Precinct 1’s website. The big picture Precinct 1 officials said the cost of the project will be determined once construction bids are taken in 2025. The project will be funded by regional park bonds, mobility funds and general funds, officials said. While the project is currently in the design phase, officials said it is anticipated to take at least four years, with completion projected for 2029.

1 Equal Justice

5 Art pavilion 6 Heritage garden 7 Canopy walk

Initiative markers 2 Community welcome center 3 Reflection pool 4 Performance space

• Precinct 1: June 8 • Precinct 3: Aug. 3 • Precinct 4: Dec. 7

NOTE: THE FULL LIST OF PROPOSED PARK FACILITIES CAN BE FOUND ON COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT AGENDA DOCUMENT/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

BAY AREA EDITION

ACCESS Instant

$20K Up to in builder incentives*

Purchase a move-in ready home in Lago Mar between NOW and March 31 and get access to all the fun we have to offer before you close on your new home!* Enjoy Amenities NOW Move in later! • Dive into Texas’ Largest Crystal Clear Lagoon • Relax on White Sand Beaches with Cabanas • Indulge at on-site Blue Lagoon Bar & Grill • Experience Fun Watersports (Paddleboards & Kayaks) • Enjoy our Splash Pad, Playground & Clubhouse

New Homes High $200s-$500s LagoMar in TexasCity.com

The Lago Mar Crystal Lagoon operating schedule and availability is subject to change without notice. The “Access Now” pass is only available on homes that a buyer has signed a new home purchase agreement with a home builder in Lago Mar between now and 3/31/24. Limit one “Access Now” pass per new home purchase agreement. Buyers must agree to and sign the rules and regulations for the Lago Mar Beach Club before access will be granted. The “Access Now” pass is void if new home purchase agreement is cancelled for any reason. The “Access Now” pass can be terminated at any time by the Crystal Clear Lagoon Operator for not meeting Lago Mar Beach Club rules and regulations. Additional restrictions may apply. Please visit Lago Mar clubhouse center for full details. Restrictions apply. See your new home sales consultant for further details on how to qualify for both of these offers. This offer ends 3/31/24. Up to $20K in builder incentives varies for each builder and is subject to change without notice. See builder representative for more details on incentives currently being offered and how to qualify for them. Offers subject to change without notice. 1.24 *

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Incumbent Election results breakdown The following results are from the March 5 primary, which featured races on the county, state and federal levels. This list is not comprehensive, and doesn’t include races where candidates who ran unopposed. For more information, visit www.sos.state.tx.us. SOURCES: HARRIS AND GALVESTON COUNTIES; TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE’S OFFICE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT Winner For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide. Headed to runoff

83.48% Greg Bonnen 16.52% Larissa Ramirez Texas House, District 24 (Republican)

Local

Federal races

81.36% Brian Babin 18.64% Jonathan “Pipeliner” Mitchell U.S. representative, District 36 (Republican)

56.73% Jimmy Fullen 43.27% Ray Nolen Galveston County sheriff (Republican)

1st Court of Appeals District, justice, Place 2 (Democrat)

State races

67.81% Brendetta Scott 32.19% Gordon Goodman

68.36% Blake Patton 16.59% John Fernandez Jr Galveston County constable, Precinct 1 (Republican) 15.05% Paul Davidson 67.53% Paul Edinburgh Galveston County constable, Precinct 2 (Republican) 32.47% Michel Roy

50.42% Christi Craddick 26.56% James “Jim” Matlock Railroad commissioner (Republican) 67.67% Katherine Culbert 32.33% Bill Burch Railroad commissioner (Democrat)

1st Court of Appeals District, justice, Place 8 (Democrat)

57.89% Richard Hightower 42.11% Ysidra “Sissy” Kyles

1st Court of Appeals District, justice, Place 9 (Democrat)

11.72% Christie Clark 6.31% Corey Howell 4.99% Petra Reyes

67.03% Ed Gonzalez 16.27% Dana M. Wolfe Harris County sheriff (Democrat) 12.18% Vergil Rochelle Ratliff 4.53% Joe Inocencio 56.4% Mike Knox 17.2% Joe Danna Harris County sheriff (Republican) 16.93% Glenn Cowan 9.46% Paul Day

59.96% Amber Boyd-Cora 40.04% Peter Kelly

73.15% Bonnie Lee Goldstein 26.85% Joe Pool Texas Supreme Court, justice, Place 6 (Democrat) 50.44% John Devine 49.56% Brian Walker Texas Supreme Court, justice, Place 4 (Republican) 59.59% Dasean Jones 40.41% Randy Sarosdy Texas Supreme Court, justice, Place 2 (Democrat) 66.08% Gina Parker 33.92% Barbara Parker Hervey Court of Criminal Appeals, judge, Place 7 (Republican) 53.88% Lee Finley 46.12% Michelle Slaughter Court of Criminal Appeals, judge, Place 8 (Republican) 62.66% David J. Schenck 37.34% Sharon Keller Court of Criminal Appeals, presiding judge (Republican)

14th Court of Appeals District, justice, Place 3 (Democrat)

45.96% Velda Renita Faulkner 23.31% Jerry Zimmerer

18.74% Chuck Silverman 11.99% Mark Ritchie

14th Court of Appeals District, justice, Place 4 (Democrat)

55% Charles Spain 45% Derek Obialo

75% Sean Teare 25% Kim Ogg Harris County district attorney (Democrat) 75.79% Jerry Garcia 24.21% David Garza Harris County constable, Precinct 2 (Democrat)

14th Court of Appeals District, justice, Place 4 (Republican)

51.89% Tonya McLaughlin 48.11% Steve Rogers

14th Court of Appeals District, justice, Place 6 (Democrat)

Only local races are official. Federal and state results will be unofficial until canvassed.

67.2% Meagan Hassan 32.8% Sara Padua Cordúa

BAY AREA EDITION

WHAT u NEED, UP TO TWO DAYS EARLY

Get paid up to two days early with direct deposit. It’s easy, secure, and free for our Members. Stay ahead of your fi nances with the peace of mind you deserve. Open an account today.

Visit UFCU.org

Membership is subject to eligibility. Federally insured by NCUA.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

Voter Guide

*INCUMBENT 2024

Dates to know

Where to vote

April 22: First day of early voting April 23: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) April 30: Last day of early voting May 4: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or May 6 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Galveston County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on Election Day. Visit www.galvestonvotes.org for polling locations.

*INCUMBENT

What changes, if any, would you make to the district’s budget?

Clear Creek ISD District 4

What are your priorities if elected?

The district faces declining enrollment and with it, declining revenues. It is imperative that we maintain high educational standards regardless of budget. Meeting that challenge is my highest priority.

The budget presentation at the last board workshop was about as good an attempt at meeting our obligations with the revenue that we have as we’ll likely get. No signicant changes. ... I would like to see the state step up with the funding that is obligated under the state constitution.

Je Larson* Occupation: Clear Creek ISD incumbent for last three years Relevant experience: Consultant 281-610-1414

Obtain the resources available, keep funds in CCISD and focused on students and teachers in the district. Ensure libraries are supported and staed with trained librarians who curate collections [and] not ban books. Work to keep schools safe and secure while maintaining welcoming and open environments.

Currently, the budget appears to be well managed. I’m not going to advocate for change for change’s sake. If elected, I’ll re-evaluate once I have greater visibility on the totality of the situation.

Albert Wittli Occupation: Career public servant; community volunteer; father Relevant experience: Security consultant; recently retired special agent (Homeland Security) www.votewittli.com

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

Advertise in the Health Care Edition

PRINT + DIGITAL PACKAGES DIRECT MAIL

SALESSUPPORT@COMMUNITYIMPACT. COM

BAY AREA EDITION

Events

Business

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Candle company goes from hobby to business Shannon Wilpitz, co-owner of Upper Room Candle Company, said her husband promised her a candle that smelled like the Avatar Flight of Passage ride at the theme park when they visited for a family vacation in late 2018. That promise would become a small business run originally out of their home, and then a 3,000-square-foot production studio with a show- room and retail space in Webster in 2023. What they oer Wilpitz said Upper Room Candles places an emphasis on quality and safety—things she would want for herself. Their products have no added dyes, are hand poured in small batches and have ethically sourced materials, she said. “I’m not interested in the sale as much as I am the customer,” she said.

• April 12, 6-9 p.m. • $10-$20 (per person) • 322 N. 4th St., La Porte • Facebook: La Porte Community Civic Club

April

Light Up the Night Walk Domestic violence awareness nonprot Bay Area Turning Point will host this family-friendly event, which is held in recognition of Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness Month. The event will include resources for community members, a K-9 demonstration from League City Police Department, a bounce house, burgers and hot dogs, a DJ, a vigil for victims, and fellowship. • April 11, 5:30-8:30 p.m. • Free (admission) Fringe Art Fest This festival, which will feature 18 artist booths selling pieces in various mediums, will be hosted at the Bay Area Unitarian Universalist Church, inside Cockrell Hall. • April 12, 3-7 p.m.; April 13, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • 17503 El Camino Real, Houston • https://bauuc.org The Ultimate Soul Food Cook-O This fundraiser hosted by La Porte Community Civic Club features a variety of Southern comfort foods. • 5001 E. NASA Parkway, Seabrook • www.bayareaturningpoint.org

Goat Yoga Little Woodrow’s Webster will host the second pygmy goat yoga class for the Goat Yoga Houston group. Guests are encouraged to come 15 minutes prior to the start of this class that features 45 minutes of ashtanga yoga practice for beginners, and another 30 minutes of goat cuddles and photos. Classes are held outside and are not recommended for children under age of 9. • April 13, 11 a.m. • $45-$60 (per person) • 20251 Gulf Freeway, Ste. H, Webster • www.goatyogahouston.com Spring Wine Fest Kemah Boardwalk will host 24 distinctive wineries from Washington state at this wine festival. The event will be held in the main plaza with live music and appetizers, and it will oer up to 72 wine samplings. • April 27, 2-5 p.m.

The decor in Upper Room Candle Company is reminiscent of a cottage out of a storybook, co-owner Shannon Wilpitz said.

PHOTOS BY ASIA ARMOURCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Boardwalk Fantasea Tejano Dinner Attendees of this evening cruise around Clear Lake and Galveston Bay will board a yacht at Kemah Boardwalk and enjoy a live DJ playing Tejano music; a buet dinner with Cajun stued chicken, sirloin steak and corn cobbettes with a garlic butter sauce; and access to two full bars. • April 6, 7-10:30 p.m. • $91.99-$99.99 (per person) • 8 Kemah Boardwalk, Ste. G, Kemah • www.boardwalkfantasea.com

OLD GALVESTON RD.

• $59.95 (per person) • 215 Kipp Ave., Kemah • www.kemahboardwalk.com

100 E. NASA Parkway, Ste. 301, Webster www.upperroomcandle.com

Co-owner Shannon Wilpitz said the business has grown through love for and from her Webster community.

BAY AREA 1033 Bay Area Blvd (281) 486-9558 LEAGUE CITY

KEMAH 243 FM 2094 (281) 538-9095 SEABROOK 3126 Nasa Pkwy (281) 326-5127

196 Gulf Fwy S (281) 316-2140

Your Neighborhood’s Trusted Home Professionals Call one of us for your FREE estimate

Commercial - Residential - New Builds Installations - Water Heater installs - Repipe Indoor - Outdoor - Under Slab Repairs Fixture Installs - 24/7 Leak Repair

Here to keep you and your family healthy Having someone in your corner when you’re sick is vital to your health and recovery. That’s why it’s important to not just have, but regularly see, a primary care clinician.

UTMB Health primary care clinicians are there for you when you’re sick and work to keep you healthy throughout every stage of your life .

Call our 24/7 Access Services team at (800) 917-8906 , visit our website at utmbhealth.com/primary-care , or scan the QR code to find a primary care clinician and schedule your next appointment.

knows Primary Care

The University of Texas Medical Branch is in-network for most major insurance plans.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY JAMES T. NORMAN & HALEY VELASCO

Clear Creek ISD talks budget for FY 202425 Clear Creek ISD ocials are looking at how to solve various challenges in the district’s budget ahead of scal year 2024-25. What you need to know For FY 2024-25, the district is projected to have about $13 million more in expenses than revenue, budget documents show. The decline of student enrollment is one of the main challenges at CCISD, which aects the amount of state funding it receives, according to a March 4 presentation from the district. CCISD will also have to increase funding to add sta due to more students in the special education and bilingual programs, agenda documents show. To add revenue and save money, CCISD has used capital and contingency funds, and reduced sta through attrition for the past two years, budget documents show.

Clear Creek ISD to have 1 competitive race in May election Clear Creek ISD had four candidates le by the Feb. 16 deadline for the three seats set to be on the ballot, including all three incum- bents, according to election lings from the district’s website. The gist District 4, currently held by trustee Je Larson, will be the lone competitive race for the district, with Albert Wittli as the lone challenger, according to election lings. District 5, as well as the seat for at-large Position A, are also set to appear on the ballot in May for CCISD. However, only the incumbents—Jay Cunningham in District 5 and Jonathan Cottrell for at-large Position A—led by the Feb. 16 deadline, lings show.

Funding challenges at Clear Creek ISD Despite declining enrollment overall, an increase in students within various programs at CCISD calls for more funding.

2019-2020 2022-2023

Total enrollment

42,234

-4.18%

40,469

Special education program

5,723 4,864

+17.66%

Bilingual program

5,671 5,442

+4.21%

Economically disadvantaged students

11,955

+26.02%

15,066

SOURCE: CLEAR CREEK ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Clear Creek ISD purchases 3 specialty school buses

"What’s great about this purchase is it’s open to more people. There are drivers who can drive these who may not be

Since the buses only require a Class C driver’s license to operate—while a normal school bus requires a commercial driver’s license, or CDL—it will help with stang shortages, ocials said at the district’s Feb. 26 meeting. The district received oers from multiple ven- dors, and purchased the buses from Rush Truck Centers. The buses will be paid for using bond money, according to district agenda documents.

Clear Creek ISD’s board of trustees at its Feb. 26 meeting approved the purchase of three lift- equipped school buses for $375,000 total to deal with a bus driver shortage. The overview The buses purchased are Type A Lift Equipped buses, which transport Special Services students, agenda documents show.

able to drive one of the bigger buses. Anything we can do to make that easier for [the drivers]."

SCOTT BOWEN, CCISD TRUSTEE

BAY AREA EDITION

Blast o From the cover

Key players

The full story

At the heart of the industry in the area is NASA’s Houston-based Johnson Space Center, which, in addition to employing more than 10,000 people, has several plans and projects that have either begun or are set to begin in the near future. The center will host a few simulated missions to Mars, such as the Human Exploration Research Analog, or HERA, Campaign 7, which began in January. Another project, expected to last a year, will see a four-person volunteer crew work inside a 1,700-square-foot, 3D-printed habit, according to a February news release from the agency. That project could begin in spring 2025, and NASA is looking for potential volunteers. Meanwhile, plans for actual space travel could nd a home in the agency’s Artemis missions, which, while delayed until 2025, could take astronauts around the moon, to the moon’s south pole and eventually to a new space station, named Gateway, that NASA is working to launch in 2025 with the help of other space agencies. Those priorities are reected in its budget over the past decade, which has seen more resources dedicated to exploration, according to budget documents. While NASA’s budget overall has increased by about 40% from scal years 2014-15 to 2022-23, the exploration portion of its budget is up by more than 70% in that same time. NASA documents show many of these upcoming exploration projects will be controlled from JSC.

NASA’s budget

Projected

With new businesses moving in, missions incoming and developments locking in by the month, Houston aerospace industry ocials expect the city to be home to some of the most cutting-edge projects in the world and a hub of space exploration. At NASA, along with a slate of new missions taking place, the Johnson Space Center is planning a new development called Exploration Park, which will be home to research and testing for future space travel. There is no set timeline on when it could be built out, but in February, NASA locked in two partnership agreements for the site. Meanwhile, ocials expect the Houston Spaceport to be home to many new projects in the coming years, Szczesniak said. Spaceport ocials not only expect to add more businesses in the coming years—in a pursuit to make the spot a destination—but companies located there have plans to launch more of their creations into space. Meanwhile, companies like Aegis Aerospace, a woman-owned business founded in 2021, are adding to the commercial space sector. “[JSC] and the commercial work that goes into these space endeavors is a major driving force for the economy in the area,” said Brian Freedman, president of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership.

$30B

$29.43B

$25B

$20B

$25.38B

$15B

Remainder of budget

$8.63B

$10B

$7.47B

$5B

Exploration budget

Fiscal year:

SOURCE: NASACOMMUNITY IMPACT NOTE: DATA IS BASED ON REQUESTS, ENACTED BUDGETS AND OPERATING PLANS

“For more than 60 years, JSC has cemented its position as a hub for human space exploration,” JSC Director Vanessa Wyche said at a Feb. 15 con- ference. “The future of Texas’s legacy in aerospace is bright.”

500+ BUSINESSES

in the aviation and aerospace industry in Greater Houston area

1,500+ JOBS

Diving in deeper

when Intuitive Machines, Axiom Space and Collins Aerospace are fully built out at Houston Spaceport

The JSC is set to host a new $200 million space institute being built by Texas A&M, which will host the country’s rst—and the world’s largest—simu- lated lunar and Mars surfaces, Texas A&M Chan- cellor John Sharp said at a Feb. 15 conference. Once built, it will be the rst development on the 240-acre Exploration Park, Wyche said. That new area will host several entities that will research and test to prepare for future space travel. To help build out that area, NASA ocials signed a second agreement for the site on Feb. 29 with American Center for Manufacturing & Innovation, or ACMI. ACMI is calling the development the Space Systems Campus, according to a Feb. 29 release from NASA. It will be an “applied research facility” that partners dierent government, academia and

240 ACRES to be developed at Exploration Park

Exploration Park

SOURCES: GREATER HOUSTON PARTNERSHIP, NASA COMMUNITY IMPACT

CLEAR LAKE

commercial entities. They will look to help meet defense and aerospace needs for the area as well as facilitate manufacturing of space hardware.

After landing on the moon Feb. 22, ocials are calling Intuitive Machines’ payload launch a success.

COURTESY NASA

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

Also of note

What’s next?

Working with NASA is the Houston Spaceport, which currently hosts three companies: Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines and Collins Aerospace. All three are slated to play pivotal roles in the space industry in the coming years, industry o- cials said. While Intuitive Machines just launched a payload to the moon, which landed Feb. 22, with materials to study the lunar surface, Axiom is looking to build the world’s rst commercial space station. The plan is to assemble it at its Houston location over the next few years. To assist in those eorts, the latest development for the spaceport is Taxiway Lima, Szczesniak said. The taxiway will connect the companies to Ellington Field Airport, allowing for international deliveries to be taken directly to the companies at the spaceport. It will come out of Houston Airport System’s enterprise fund, costing $16 million. The taxiway is also one piece of the larger puzzle to develop the spaceport into a destination, which

Murphy described the current state of the industry as almost a “golden era” of space. One possible hangup, however, is growth outpacing the available workers, she said. As a result, eorts to increase training are a priority. San Jacinto College’s EDGE Center, for example, is oering aerospace courses to help train future workers in the area. “I think there’s an opportunity from universities and local community colleges that have gotten grant money to increase that training,” Murphy said.

The upcoming Taxiway Lima connects Houston Spaceport to Ellington Field Airport.

Ellington Field Airport

CLEAR LAKE CITY BLVD.

Industry timeline

2024: HERA Campaign 7 begins at JSC, with four simulated Mars missions planned for the year Summer 2024: Space Institute to potentially break ground at Johnson Space Center 2025: Gateway, the world’s rst space station to orbit around the moon, expected to launch Spring 2025: New yearlong simulated Mars mission to begin 2030s: NASA will decommission International Space Station; Axiom Space will also look to launch their own space station 2026: Taxiway Lima to be built out September 2026: Artemis III to land crew near lunar south pole September 2025: Artemis II mission to take a crew of astronauts around the moon (delayed from October 2024)

2024

could mean developments spanning beyond just aerospace, Szczesniak said. “Houston’s got a tremendous [reputation] historically, but also tremendous potential going forward,” Szczesniak said.

2025

What they’re saying

2026

“In a nutshell, Houston is Space City, and there was an understanding for Houston that we need to take advantage of

“I think we’re going to continue growing. The private and public partnerships … have been such a successful model. …

that. … By 2040ish, [industry leaders] think space might be a trillion-dollar industry.” JIM SZCZESNIAK, DIRECTOR OF AVIATION FOR THE HOUSTON

It opens up the entrepreneurial spirit here for these companies that are small and nimble.” STEPHANIE MURPHY, OWNER OF AEGIS AEROSPACE, WHICH

2027

OPERATES TESTING FACILITIES IN SPACE

AIRPORT SYSTEM, WHICH OVERSEES THE SPACEPORT

2030

SOURCES: AXIOM SPACE, HOUSTON SPACEPORT, NASACOMMUNITY IMPACT

Choose a local consultant you can trust! Medicare Advantage Plans Medicare Supplement Insurance Health Insurance Under 65 Services are Complimentary! 907 West Main St - League City 346-215-0581 • eva@insuredbyjohn.com John Valdes Agency Are you Turning 65 soon? Call me!

John & Eva Valdes Medicare Insurance Agents

BAY AREA EDITION

512-232-5000 EdServices@austin.utexas.edu highschool.utexas.edu

New Homes in League City

From the $470’s

Experience the ultimate staycation right in your backyard by settling into Coastal Point, where Coventry Homes presents unique Eco Smart designs. COASTAL POINT

Enroll anytime in UT’s online high school courses to catch up or get ahead. Full-time diploma program and single courses available including Honors and Advanced Placement® subjects available Enroll in courses now! Scan the QR code

Live at the center of it all in Westwood, a Bay Area community offering easy access to the beaches of Galveston and the urban attractions of Houston. WESTWOOD

866.739.7761 www.coventryhomes.com

QR CODE

Prices and availability subject to change without notice. You are hereby advised against making any decisions based solely upon this information without first verifying it with the controlling authority.

Emergencies happen. We’re right here when they do. A health emergency is something most of us would rather prevent than plan for. But when you need medical care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. As your community partner, St. Luke’s Health is your direct path from feeling scared or uncomfortable to feeling better. Get to know more about our ERs before an emergency strikes. Find your nearest location at StLukesHealth.org/Emergency .

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY RACHEL LELAND

Major League City roadways to undergo landscaping upgrades Several roadways in League City, including FM 518, FM 646, FM 2094 and SH 96, will undergo landscaping improvements as part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s wider efforts to beautify its roadways throughout the Greater Houston area, according to a news release. The gist The landscaping improvements are a part of TxDOT’s Green Ribbon Award program, which aims to transform concrete landscapes into areas that can adapt to the local climate, according to TxDOT’s website. According to a Feb. 7 news release from League City, the project will cost TxDOT $2 million and include:

Part of League City Parkway sidewalk closed due to work As part of its wider efforts to update its transportation infrastructure, League City is repairing an uneven sidewalk along League City Parkway. What you need to know Beginning Feb. 26, League City will begin repairs of an uneven sidewalk along League City Parkway from Misty Trails Lane to just before Westover Park Avenue, according to the city’s newsletter. According to the city’s newsletter, the side- walk will be closed to pedestrians and bike riders during construction, which is expected to last until the end of April. League City spends $1 million per year repairing sidewalks and trails, officials said.

2094

LAWRENCE RD.

146

518

3436

646

DIAMOND BAY DR.

MAPLE LEAF DR.

517

• Constructing plant beds inside the medians • Irrigation installation • Planting trees, shrubs and other landscaping What else? League City and TxDOT officials worked to choose plantings that could withstand vehicle exhaust. They settled on live oaks, gulf muhly grass, dwarf Texas palmetto and crepe myrtle, according the city’s news release. TxDOT expects to complete the improvements by this fall, according to the news release.

Hwy. 146 lanes open, frontage road work continues After five years of construction, all lanes of the Hwy. 146 express bridge have opened to drivers, but some frontage roads will be closed for further construction. What you need to know The Texas Department of Transportation announced March 13 that the north- and south- bound sides of Hwy. 146 opened March 8. While the express bridge is open for traffic, TxDOT still needs to complete smaller project updates along the highway, including frontage roads, signals, railing, sodding and drainage, public information officer Bambi Hall said in an email. Due to the construction, north- and southbound frontage roads between Red Bluff Road and NASA Parkway will see lane closures, Hall said.

RED BLUFF RD.

LAKESIDE DR.

146

YER AVE.

Target MAILBOXES WITH POSTCARDS local

SALESSUPPORT@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BAY AREA EDITION

Your best self is waiting for you.

Summer is Better at the Y!

What’s on your retirement wish list? A maintenance- and worry-free lifestyle? How about the freedom to live as independently as possible? With exceptional amenities, unprecedented hospitality, and a continuum of care, it’s possible to get everything you want out of retirement – and enjoy it fully – at The Delaney ® at South Shore. • Restaurant-style dining

From summer camp to sports clinics, swim lessons and enrichment activities, your child or teen will find adventure and fun this summer at the Y!

JOIN US: Healthy Kid s Day 2024 Visit your local YMCA on Saturday, April 20 at 10 am for a day of family fun! Learn more about programs and enjoy a variety of engaging activities. This event is open to the community. Visit our website to learn more today!

• Full-service hair salon and spa • Fully equipped fitness studio • Well-appointed art studio

• Gathering places for family and friends • Beautiful, pet-friendly apartment homes

ymcahouston.org

Schedule a personal experience of our inviting community today by calling (281) 343-3608 or visiting TheDelaneyatSouthShore.com .

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

2605 Marina Bay Drive | League City, TX 77573 | TheDelaneyatSouthShore.com AL Facility ID#107116

YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

More homes were sold in February 2024 compared to last year. Housing prices generally went up as well. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

February 2023

February 2024

+100%

-33.33%

-10.53%

+100%

+16.44%

225

77059

77058

77059

77062

77565

77573

146

77062

77058

GALVESTON BAY

Median home sales price

77565

518

February

2023

2024

$307,500 $427,000 $292,000 $298,000 $355,000

$312,500 $401,500 $305,000 $345,085 $420,000

77058

77573

77059

Homes sold by price point

77062

77565

February 2024

77573

$800,000+

$600,000 to $799,999

Average days on market +257.1%

$400,000 to $599,999

-51.79%

+8%

-40.51%

-18.18%

$200,000 to $399,999

<$199,999

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY ALINA ROGERS SPARROW REALTY • 281-961-2944 WWW.SPARROW-REALTY.COM

77058

77059

77062

77565

77573

you need to know about your community in 5 MINUTES

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM�NEWSLETTER

BAY AREA EDITION

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14-15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28

communityimpact.com