*******************IMPORTANT NOTICE**********************************

If you have not received your eTalk of the Bay or would like to get it click here. find out more...

Clear Creek ISD Board Of Trustees Call For Election

The Clear Creek Independent School District‘s Board of Trustees passed a resolution calling for an election to be held on May 12, 2012. Interested candidates can begin filing applications February 4, 2012. The last day to file for a place on the ballot is at 5:00 P.M on March 5, 2012. read on...

BACODA Offers Drug Prevention Services For Free To 65 Kids A Day, 23,700 Kids A Year

Every day, the Bay Area Council On Drugs & Alcohol serves 65 new youths, 18 and younger, through its prevention education efforts across the Texas Gulf Coast.

Prevention education aims to encourage prevention through focusing on concepts such as improving self-concept, making healthy decisions, accepting responsibility and practicing honesty. Youthworks, BACODA’s prevention department, provides prevention education services in elementary schools, junior high/middle schools and high schools. Youthworks elementary and junior high/middle school staff provide educational groups in the school setting. In addition to providing educational groups, the high school staff also provide individual counseling, encouraging youth to set and meet personal goals in regard to their physical, intellectual, social and emotional selves. read on...

College Of The Mainland Considers Dual Credit Courses

The League City Chamber of Commerce and the Clear Creek Independent School District are committed to providing high school students opportunities to explore college-level coursework through partnerships with area colleges, including College of the Mainland (COM) in Galveston County. This commitment was reciprocated during a recent meeting between Superintendent Greg Smith, League City Chamber of Commerce President Jason E. Ebey and Interim COM President, Dr. Larry Durrence. A December 16, 2011 article in the Galveston Daily News raised concerns that COM campus in League City may be closed. The College of the Mainland League City provides dual credit courses for 247 high school students in the League City area. Dual credit courses offer high school students the opportunity to simultaneously earn high school and college credit.

Academic Intregity Focus At Clear Lake High School

The Clear Creek Independent School District is committed to developing students who are self-directed learners, take pride in their schoolwork and contribute positively to the school community.  It is with these goals in mind, students who cheated on the English IV final exam at Clear Lake High School will be disciplined in accordance to district policy. Disciplinary action for approximately 60 students is underway with more to follow in the upcoming weeks. “Academic integrity is at the core of student, campus and district success. We are taking this situation seriously and ask for parent and public patience as we diligently work through each case on an individual basis,” said Dr. Alex Torrez, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education. “I am proud of the way the campus staff has handled this unfortunate situation and the collaborative spirit among parents and students. The school district is also reviewing testing procedures and will make improvements where needed.”

Why Voter Registration Certificates Have Expired

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 outlawed discrimination in voting.  Covered jurisdictions must seek preclearance of voting changes from the US Attorney General (DOJ) or the US District Court and demonstrate that proposed voting changes do not have the effect of discrimination based on race, color or language minority group.

Texas is one of nine states, 54 counties (in 5 other states) and 12 townships (in 2 more) that is considered a “covered jurisdiction” and, upon submission of a voting change, waits 60 days for a response from the DOJ.  If a change is rejected, the jurisdiction continues its earlier practice or adopts a substitute and again seeks preclearance.   read more...

Avoid Costly Penalties for 2011 Taxes and Save the Dates to Lower the 2012 Tax Bill!

Following the tradition of the last seven years, the Galveston and League City branches of the Galveston County Tax Office (GCTO) will be open from 7 am to 6 pm, Tuesday, January 31st, the last day to pay 2011 taxes without penalty and interest.  The Santa Fe and Texas City Tax Office branches will be open normal operation hours of 8 am to 5 pm.

“It it not unusual for us to have four to five thousand property tax customers each day at the end of January joining the 27,000 vehicle registration renewal customers, “ warned County Tax Assessor Collector Cheryl E. Johnson.  As in the past, central office administrators and temporary staff support are being dispatched to all offices during the last two weeks of January to assist with the long lines. keep reading...

Host an Exchange Student

World Heritage Student Exchange Program, a highly respected, non-profit, public-benefit organization, is seeking local host families for high school boys and girls from Scandinavia, France, Germany, Italy, Thailand, China, South Korea, and the former Soviet Republics. Students are already awaiting word on their host families for the 2012-2013 academic school year. Host families provide room, board, and guidance for a teenager living thousands of miles from home. Couples, single parents, and families with or without children in the home are all encouraged to apply. more details...

CITY OF DICKINSON HOSTS HOUSING FAMILY FAIR

Have you ever wondered: How do I get good credit? Can I afford my own home? Is there help for first time homebuyers? The City of Dickinson invites you to the Dickinson Housing Family Fair on Saturday, February 25, 2012, at Mt Carmel Baptist Church, 2920 Highway 3, in Dickinson, Texas 77539. The Fair will be from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and is designed to help answer your questions.  find out more...

CCISD Rodeo Art Winners On Display

The Clear Creek Independent School District is proud to announce the annual CCISD Rodeo School Art Exhibition and Reception is being held at The Art Alliance of Clear Lake. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Committee juried our district show with the following results:

get the rest of the story...

MetLife Office Provides Snack Packs For Dropout Prevention Program

Snack packs for the Holiday Break for K.E. Little Elementary students were recently gathered by Elite Retirement and Financial Solutions, an Office of MetLife. Students receiving the snack packs are part of the Communities In Schools-Bay Area (CIS-Bay Area) dropout prevention program.

CIS-Bay Area serves 12 campuses in Clear Creek and Dickinson Independent School Districts

Owner Mary Stender and husband Jerry received donations of snacks and gift cards from HEB, Kroger, Food Town and MetLife representatives.
Caption For Attached Photo
Communities In Schools-Bay Area Executive Director Peter Wuenschel accepts snack packs from MetLife staff (from left) Erica Garza and Joy Stender.

Texas Wildlife and Agricultural Heritage

The Estuary Program would like to take a moment to recognize a notable achievement for our members on the Natural Resource Uses Subcommittee and the stakeholders involved in the West Bay Watershed Conservation Initiative. We would also like to congratulate our partners that received grant funds from the highly competitive National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program. 
Above all, we want to express our thanks and appreciation to all our partners for their dedication and invaluable contributions. We truly appreciate, and are proud to support and serve this great partnership on behalf of Galveston Bay.  find out more...

U.S. John Cornyn To Receive 2012 Quasar Award

On January 20, 2012, U.S. Senator John Cornyn will receive the prestigious 2012 Quasar Award for exceptional leadership in Economic Development Excellence. Senator Cornyn will be presented the award during the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership’s annual Quasar Award Banquet at the South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center in League City.

The Quasar Award is presented each year to an outstanding individual who has contributed greatly to the economic wealth and diversity of the Bay Area Houston region.

In 2008, Texans overwhelmingly re-elected Senator John Cornyn to represent them for a second six-year term in the United States Senate. Senator Cornyn was first elected to the Senate in 2002 and previously served in Texas as a district judge, a member of the Texas Supreme Court, and as Texas Attorney General.

Mardi Gras! Galveston 2012 – Bead There! 

Visitors to Texas’ largest Mardi Gras celebration, Mardi Gras! Galveston, are expected to throw more than 3 million beads Feb. 10-21, 2012, while celebrating the feasting and merriment of headliner music performances, parades, family events and other festivities that come with hosting an island style Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras! Galveston 2012 will feature 26 concerts, 24 parades, 19 balcony parties and five elegant masked balls. Due to the revival of a ticketed entertainment district, last year’s event saw an increased attendance and a 50 percent drop in police calls, making it one of the largest and safest Mardi Gras events on record. The 2012 event will be even bigger than 2011, and include a plethora of new features and reasons to be among the over 300,000 people expected to “bead” there! more details...

Dropout Prevention Program Hosts College And Career Day at Brookside Intermediate

Communities In Schools-Bay Area (CIS-Bay Area) recently hosted a College & Career Day at Brookside Intermediate. More than 250 Eighth Grade students were give the opportunity to meet with dozens of business and education professionals as part of the event. CIS-Bay Area is a dropout prevention program serving 12 schools in Clear Creek and Dickinson ISDs. keep reading...

Important Information from the County Tax Office

Don’t rush to get that property tax payment mailed before December 31st.  With the last day of the year falling on the weekend and the USPS closed Monday, January 2nd for the New Year Holiday, all payments postmarked January 3nd will be posted with a December 2011 receipt date, giving you just a couple of extra days to hang on to your money while maintaining your 2011 income tax write off.  The County Tax Office, like all County offices, will not close for the New Year holiday weekend.

For the seventh year, the Galveston and League City branches of the Galveston County Tax Office will be open extended hours (7 am to 6 pm) January 31st which is the last day to pay 2011 property taxes without accruing penalty and interest.  All other GCTO offices will be open the standard hours of 8 am to 5 pm.  read more...

Bay Area Welcome Neighbors Club Installed New Officers

New Officers were install the December Meeting, on December 15, at Bay Oaks Country Club.
BAWNC meets the 3rd Thursday of each month at Bay Oaks.  For more information, contact Membership Chairperson, Anna Ward at 281.334.5188 .

Pictured Left to Right:  Secretary Candy Starr, Treasurer Diane Burck, President Marcia Carnahan, Vice Presidents Linda Parr & Eileen Hult

NASA Honors Clear Creek High School Staff Members

The NASA Johnson Space Center recently honored two Clear Creek High School teachers for their work with students in the High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware (HUNCH) program.

Bill Gibbs and Robin Merritt received an award for the leadership and guidance they’ve provided HUNCH students and for the level of success they’ve achieved in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. The teachers were also presented patches flown to the International Space Station on board the space shuttle as part of the STS-116 mission. the rest of the story...

Registration Opens January 3 for Online CCISD High School Courses

Clear Access, CCISD's Virtual School was established to enable students to take high school courses online, outside of their regular schedule, through a computer and internet connection.

Registration for the next semester begins January 3, 2012 and ends January 27, 2012. To register go to: http://www2.ccisd.net/ForStudents/ClearAccess.aspx . Classes begin January 30, 2012. read on...

League City 50th Anniversary Christmas Boat Lane Parade On Clear Lake Another Spectacular Night

Bright lights and boats of all kinds traveled Clear Lake December 10 for the League City 50th Anniversary Christmas Boat Lane Parade on Clear Lake, produced by the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.  Hundreds of boats swarmed the Nassau Bay Lagoon, South Shore Harbour and the Kemah Boardwalk dazzling the crowds along the shores.

Beautifully decorated sail and power boats entertained thousands of spectators with their creative lights, music, dancers and designs. “Many boats used the traditional Santa, candy canes and snowman, but others were very unique,” said Parade Chairman Jim Christiansen.  “There was an octopus, the giant lamp-leg from “a Christmas Story”, Elvis live from Vegas, skating penguins and a huge birthday cake on a boat covered in golden lights,” said Christiansen. Many boats saluted the special anniversary of the parade with the number 50 in every color.

U.S.Senator John Cornyn To Be Honored With Bahep’s 2012 Quasar Award

Bay Area Houston, Texas (December 12, 2011) The Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership will honor U.S. Senator John Cornyn with its prestigious 2012 Quasar Award for exceptional leadership in Economic Development presented during the organization’s Annual Quasar Award Banquet on Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 , at the South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center in League City.

The Quasar Award is presented each year to an outstanding individual who has contributed greatly to the economic wealth and diversity of the Bay Area Houston region. In 2008, Texans overwhelmingly re-elected Senator John Cornyn to represent them for a second six-year term in the United States Senate. Senator Cornyn was first elected to the Senate in 2002 and previously served in Texas as a district judge, a member of the Texas Supreme Court, and as Texas Attorney General. keep reading...

CCISD Approves Duplicating Successful Gifted and Talented Program

League City, Texas, December 13, 2011 - The Clear Creek Independent School District Board of Trustees unanimously approved a plan to open a second location for the Webster Academy- Visions in Education (WAVE) program. Beginning the 2012-2013 school year, the Gifted and Talented program will be offered at Westbrook Intermediate and its new location, League City Intermediate. An expansion team of educators, parents and students from both locations will be formed to implement the second program. keep reading...

The Arts Alliance Center at Clear Lake Recognizes Winners of the Winter 2011 Juried Exhibition

HOUSTON, Dec. 13, 2011 – On Thursday evening, Dec. 1, The Arts Alliance Center at Clear Lake (TAACCL) held the opening for its Open Door Series: Winter 2011 Juried Exhibition. During the opening, the winners of this show were announced.

More than 250 works were received for the Open Door Series from 103 artists. From these, the show’s juror, Nina Makepeace, selected 115 works for display at TAACCL. Debra Kendrick, The Arts Alliance Center’s curator, chose eight additional works to represent the show at the Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library. there's more...

Byerly Won The Midwinters Regatta In New Orleans

Lakewood Yacht Club Seahorse racer Dane Byerly captured the Mendleblatt trophy for winning the MidWinters Regatta, a national event, held in New Orleans over Thanksgiving weekend.  Out of 11 races, he had 7 bullets (top place) and won the Red Opti Fleet Overall Award.  His name will be placed on the perpetual trophy, the Mendleblatt trophy, at Southern Yacht Club.

Out of the 82 boats registered to participate, the count included  15 Lakewood Yacht Club Seahorse racers.   According to the Byerly brothers Dane and Dougie, the weather was warmer than anticipated.  They admitted that one of their favorite things about the MidWinters Regatta is that Café du Monde brings beignets and café au lait one morning for everyone.

Rescued Dolphin, “Raine”, Making Progress In Galveston Due To Intensive Care

“Raine”, a female dolphin, rescued by the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network on Thanksgiving weekend after her stranding on Sargent Beach, TX is recovering. Raine was not able to swim on her own upon arrival to the rehabilitation facility in Galveston, so she has been supported in the water since her arrival by trained volunteers and staff over the last two weeks. Raine has grown stronger and is now swimming on her own for short periods throughout the day, while still requiring support as she grows tired.  get the scoop...

RCC Program Offers Hope For Local Abuse Victims

November and December are my favorite months of the year simply because it seems like everyone’s heart grows bigger and stronger! It’s the season of giving!

I donate my time to various organizations throughout the year, but during the end of the year, it seems much more important. I cannot imagine not having family or loved ones during this time to share the holidays with. And, I also cannot imagine not having a warm meal on Thanksgiving or even a few small gifts to give my children on Christmas morning.

There are many worthy organizations across Galveston County, but there are only a few that are close to my heart. One of those organizations is the Resource and Crisis Center of Galveston County. This group helps victims of family violence, child abuse and sexual assault who live exclusively in Galveston County. Community members can help support these victims by adopting them through the Santa for Survivors program. there's more...

Galveston County Animal Resource Center Needs Your Help - Galveston

The Galveston County Animal Resource Center (ARC) needs your help now more than ever.  We have a few wonderful dogs that have been overlooked for adoption and have been at ARC since for a while.  We need people to spend some time with these  dogs out in the yards and to play, enjoy them and help them practice basic obedience. 

Also, please consider taking one of our furry friends home with you for a sleepover; it makes a world of difference when we can give a potential adopter vital information on these animals.  Remember, before the holidays is the best opportunity for these pets to be adopted. Santa will be coming to the ARC on Dec. 10 at 4-6pm.  You can bring your kids and fur-kids to have picture with Santa.

ARC is located at 3412 Loop 197 North, Texas City. Please visit our Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/GCASAdoption or call 409-94-2485. 

STAR Volunteers - Striving to Treat Animals with Respect
"Saving the life of an animal won't change the world;but the world will change for that animal"

UH-Clear Lake Briefs – Clear Lake

Public welcome at Campus Visit Day

Visit University of Houston-Clear Lake for a fun and informative Campus Visit Day that offers campus tours, admissions information sessions, financial aid and scholarship opportunities as well as apple cider, snacks and mingling and more, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. – noon, in the university’s Bayou Building, room 1335, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058.

Ask questions and receive the answers you need from helpful counselors and staff at this last admissions event for 2011, and find out what UH-Clear Lake can do for you. For more information about this free event, visit http://www.uhcl.edu/admissions and select Events, or call the Office of Admissions, 281-283-2515.     

Quick THEA testing offered at UH-Clear Lake

Sign up for the Quick THEA (Texas Higher Education Assessment), the five-hour test required for admission to Texas colleges and universities and teacher education programs. Registration is now open and sign up deadline is Dec. 9, 11:30 a.m., with late registration on Dec. 15, 5:30 p.m. The test is scheduled for Dec. 16, 8 a.m., in the university’s Student Services and Classroom Building, Room 3310, 3311, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058.

Fee is $29 with an additional $10 institution fee and scores are available in four to five business days.  
For more information about the test and testing availability, call 512-927-5398 or visit http://www.thea.nesinc.com. To find out more about testing services at UH-Clear Lake, visit http://www.uhcl.edu/testingservices, or call the Office of Career and Counseling Services, 281-283-2580.

Autism Speaker Series lecture discusses using reinforcement

Area parents and educators are invited to attend the informative workshop, “Using Reinforcement Effectively at School and Home” presented as part of the UH-Clear Lake’s Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities Speaker Series, Dec. 10, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Student Services and Classroom Building, Lecture Hall, Room 1100, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058.

This lecture will offer tips on how to help an autistic child work to their full potential. UH-Clear Lake Applied Behavior Analysis graduate student Amanda Greenup will make the presentation. Lunch will be provided.
The series is underwritten by CHRISTUS St. John Hospital and sponsored by Hegwood & Associates, P.C. and Johnson Space Center Federal Credit Union. Sponsorship is provided by Johnson Space Center Federal Credit Union and Spectrum of Hope.

All lectures in this series are free and open to the public but space is limited. RSVP by emailing AutismCenter@uhcl.edu. For more information, visit http://hsh.uhcl.edu/CADD and select Autism Speaker Series.               

Welcome the New Year with foreign language classes

Greet the New Year and resolve to learn a new language by enrolling in UH-Clear Lake’s Foreign Language Program classes that begin Jan 9 and are held at various times and locations in the university’s Bayou Building and Student Services and Classroom Building, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058.

A new language can enhance career goals and expand personal horizons. All classes are small, informal groups that meet weekly for seven weeks to learn French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish at beginner to advanced levels.

New student fees are $135 and returning students are $115. Private and semi private lessons are also available.. To register, visit http://www.uhcl.edu/fl  or call 281-283-3033. For more information, e-mail Foreign Languages Program Director Christine Paul, paul@uhcl.edu.

Paul Announces Nominations to US Military Academies

Congratulations to these outstanding young people!
Washington, DC – Congressman Ron Paul has finalized his annual nominations to US Military Academies.  There are five federal academies that train students at the undergraduate level for service in the US armed forces.  A nomination from a US Senator, Representative, the President, or Vice-President is required for consideration for admission to four of these institutions.  They are The United States Naval Academy in Annapolis MD (USNA); The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point NY; The Unites States Military Academy at West Point NY (USMA); and The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs CO (USAFA).  read on...

Interfaith Caring Ministries Seeking Gifts for Christmas Store – League City

Many Bay Area children wouldn’t receive Christmas gifts without Interfaith Caring Ministries. Their parents may be making ends meet, but they don’t have the income to provide such gifts. ICM is now accepting new, unwrapped toys (and gift cards for teens) for its annual Christmas store.

In 2010, ICM gave to 739 children.  In 2011, the goal is to give to 1,000 children. Donate items at the ICM office Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until Friday, Dec. 9, or take them directly to the “store” at Clear Lake Presbyterian Church, 1511 El Dorado Blvd., Houston, 77062,  on “Gift Giving Sunday” Dec. 11 from noon to 4 p.m. For more information, contact Stephanie King, Development Coordinator, at 281.332.3881 ext. 1113 or sking@icmtx.org.  See the flyer...

Clear Horizons Early College High School Strikes Gold

The Texas Education Agency released the 2011 Gold Performance Acknowledgements for Texas schools and CCISD is proud to announce our Clear Horizons Early College High School (CHECHS) earned 12 of the 12 possible Gold Performance Acknowledgements for a school with grades 9-12.

Principal, Dr. Jennifer Morrow is thrilled her campus struck gold, “Congratulations to our students, parents, and staff on this spectacular achievement.” The Gold Performance Acknowledgment (GPA) system acknowledges districts and campuses for high performance on indicators other than those used to determine accountability ratings. Acknowledgment is given for high performance on...  keep reading...

League City Police Department Gears Up for Blue Santa Program

This program is organized by police officers and League City Volunteer Fire Department firefighters with assistance from other city departments, area businesses, civic groups, and community members.

Our goal is to provide in need children and families the magic and joy of the Christmas season.  We have partnered with Walmart to host our second annual "Shop with a Cop/Firefighter" event.  Existing community agencies assist us in the identification of children in need.  All children selected live in League City.  The families are interviewed to determine the scope of their needs.  On the day of the event, children pair up with League City Police Officers and Firefighters to pick out toys or clothes of their choice.

Lakewood Claims Three First Places In J/Fest Southwest Regatta

During the 2nd Annual J/Fest Southwest Regatta held over the weekend of Oct. 29-30, two Lakewood Yacht Club racers placed first in overall-wins.  Taking first place for the second year in a row in the J/105 fleet was Bill Zartler on “Solaris”.

Claiming first place in the J/80 fleet was David Whelan and Terry Flynn on “Gulf Coast Racing” and Doug Shaffer’s “Gambler” was first in the J/PHRF fleet.

This national regatta, hailing J boats from as far away as Colorado and Connecticut, was held on Galveston Bay with two days of contrasting weather conditions.  According to LYC Race Committee Chairman Dwight Bengtson, the winds started out good on Galveston Bay on Sat., but died mid-afternoon after the second race.  Sunday, with winds 10-15 knots, there was a lot of spirited competition.  “It was a great afternoon for one design racing and the participants loved the competition as well as the Saturday night dinner and party,” Bengtson related.
more information...

Lakewood’s Lutz Claims Silver In Pan American Games

Lakewood Yacht Club racer Jay Lutz, representing the U. S. Sailing Team in the 2011 Pan American Games, won the Silver Medal during the awards ceremony held on Sun., Oct. 23.

The Pan American Games are held every four years the summer before the Olympics.  Countries from Canada to the far tip of South America, including the island chain from Cuba down to Trinidad, participated in this sporting event.   While Guadalajara, Mexico, held the majority of the sporting events for the Games, the sailing, beach volleyball, triathalon and long distance swim were held in Puerto Vallarta with the sailing held on Vallarta Bay in the Pacific Ocean.     Lutz and his crew represented the U.S. Sailing Team in the opening ceremony, walking with the U.S. Contingency into Omnilife Stadium in Guadalajara.  “Walking into sixty thousand screaming sports fans in the audience was quite a sight to behold,” reported Lutz.  read on...

CCISD Addresses Rumors Of School Closings

The Clear Creek Independent School District believes each school is the hub of its respective community and will not close schools. This statement is intended to address rumors the school district is contemplating closing under-utilized campuses such as League City Elementary and League City Intermediate. The District is concerned about the imbalance of school populations across the district. There are schools growing exponentially in student population while others are declining in enrollment. The Clear Creek Independent School District has asked a citizens committee to review attendance boundaries for elementary and intermediate schools and make recommendations which will best reflect the needs of all communities and their children.  there's more...

Drunk Drivers Can’t Hide Behind Halloween Costumes

As party-going ghosts and goblins celebrate Halloween this October, the Bay Area Council On Drugs & Alcohol’s (BACODA) Galveston County Community Coalition reminds everyone to keep the party off the road. 

“There isn’t a Halloween costume clever enough to hide an impaired driver who’s made the poor decision to get behind the wheel,” said Coalition Coordinator Mary Beth Trevino. “Whether you’ve had one too many or way too many it’s just not worth the risk. Remember, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.” details...

League City Hosts Community E-Government Forum

League City’s website offers residents dozens of ways to link to information they want and need. From paying utility bills and signing up for sports teams online to getting instant alerts during emergencies, www.leaguecity.com puts City services at residents’ fingertips.

To explain the technology and give residents first-hand experience with it, the City is teaming up with CivicPlus, the leading developer of online community engagement systems, and other vendors at the City’s first League City Linked: Community E-Government Forum. The forum will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at the Johnnie Arolfo Civic Center at 400 W. Walker St. fnid out more...

Junior League of Galveston County Leadership Council Announced

The Junior League of Galveston County is proud to formally announce their Council of Vice Presidents guiding the League for the 2011-2012 year.  Yvette Schulz will lead the League as president.

Junior League of Galveston County Council of Vice Presidents:
§         Amanda Gaido – President Elect/Parliamentarian
§         Amy Brown – Community Vice President
§         Holly Pelletier – Communications Vice President
§         Cindi Lyons – Finance Vice President
§         Shannon Lecoq – Fundraising Vice President
§         Molly Crow – Membership Vice President
§         Lynsey Ginsberg – Secretary
§         Doryn Glenn – Sustaining Advisor/President  read on...

Become a Volunteer Deputy Registrar

The Galveston County Tax Office has been providing training to individuals interested in serving as Volunteer Deputy Registrars (VDR) for nearly a year, thus far certifying 84 graduates.  VDRs work in partnership with County Voter Registrars across the State, assisting citizens in registering to vote.

VDRs must be eligible to vote although they are not required to be a registered voter.  Legislation went into effect September 1 that mandated completion of a training program in order to serve in this capacity.  In addition to the monthly class, the Galveston Tax Office offers in-office PC training and will provide additional classes during normal business hours whenever possible for local groups.  more details....

Students Benefit From Couple’s Generosity

Four University of Houston-Clear Lake students will continue to pursue an education through financial assistance from the M.L. Wismer Scholarship Endowment. Undergraduate students Natalie McKenney, Monique Martinez and Tracy Furman, as well as graduate student Ambericent Cornett received the scholarships.

“This is an outstanding example of how generous alumni and contributors can make a difference in the lives of students who might otherwise be unable to pursue their degrees,” says UH-Clear Lake Associate Vice President for University Advancement Dion McInnis. 
get the details...

Bay Area Alliance Prescription Drug Advisory Committee Takes It Back

Saturday, October 29, 2011 from 10am to 2pm, the Prescription Drug Advisory Committee of the Bay Area Alliance will be set up at UTMB Specialty Care Center at Victory Lakes taking back your expired or unneeded prescription and non-prescription medications.  This latest effort to decrease prescription drug abuse is in coordination with a national effort through the Drug Enforcement Agency to remove dangerous controlled and commonly misused substances from community medicine cabinets.  keep reading...

Clear Creek ISD Students Place In National Science Competition

The Clear Creek Independent School District is proud to announce two current freshmen at Clear Lake High School and a current 8th grade student at Seabrook Intermediate School earned semifinalist honors in a national science competition.  The students received CCISD Board Recognition at the September Board of Trustees meeting.

Kushal Kadakia’s project was about Reverse Osmosis Efficiency. Ashwin Varma’s was titled:  Amniotic Fluid: A Natural Wonder Healer. Both are former Westbrook Intermediate students and are now current Clear Lake High School students. Their submissions in the Science and Engineering Fair of Houston placed among a select group of 300 Semifinalists named from more than 6,000 nominees throughout the United States. 
get the scoop...

Communities In Schools-Bay Area Names New Board Members

Communities In Schools-Bay Area (CIS-Bay Area) has named its new members of the Board of Directors. CIS-Bay Area is a dropout prevention program serving 12 schools in Clear Creek and Dickinson Independent School Districts. Joining the board are Robert Cobb, Glenn Freedman, Mike LaTouche, Sandy Mossman and Kevin Snedecor.

Robert Cobb is joining the board as the representative of Dickinson ISD where he serves as Assistant Superintendent for Administration. Cobb has been with the district for 15 years. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University and Clear Lake High School. there's more...

Three CCISD Schools Honored For Academic Excellence

League City – The Clear Creek Independent School District is proud to announce three schools have been selected for the most prestigious award for sustained, academic excellence in Texas. Clear Horizons Early College High School, Space Center Intermediate and Westbrook Intermediate will be honored in December by the Texas Business and Education Coalition (TBEC).

The TBEC 2011 Honor Roll recognizes schools that have demonstrated three years of consistent, high performance in all subjects compared to other schools serving similar student populations. TBEC Honor Roll schools have the highest percentage of students performing at the state’s most rigorous standard -commended- in every subject. And, in this the last year of TAKS, the standards are the most demanding TBEC has ever had.  read on...

Clear Creek ISD Volunteer Declared ‘Hero For Children’

League City -- The State Board Of Education Honored 15 Volunteers From School districts across Texas with the Heroes for Children award including Westbrook Intermediate parent Allison Louis.

Louis has been a volunteer for 10 years and in addition to doing the usual volunteer things – cutting, pasting, folding, collating, assembling and organizing – she also reads to students; tutors math and spelling; and works with small groups on class projects. According to her nomination form, “Louis goes above and beyond to support the gifted and talented community.”  She also volunteers with the Ecology Club, Orchestra Booster Club and theatre production classes.  more...

Clear Creek Independent School District

Office of Public Information
2425 East Main Street
League City, Texas 77573
September 30, 2011
Contact: Janice Scott, Assistant Director
Office of Communications
(281) 284-0020 or jwscott@ccisd.net

Astronaut Johnson Returns Items Flown In Space

What: Astronaut Gregory H. Johnson to return items flown in space
When: Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Where:
Hyde Elementary School    8:30 AM   3700 FM 518 East, League City 77573
Clear Creek High School   10:00 AM  2305 East Main St., League City 77573
Clear Falls High School       1:00 PM  4380 Village Way, League City 77573
Mossman Elementary          2:00 PM 4050 Village Way, League City 77573
Bayside Intermediate           3:00 PM 4430 Village Way, League City 77573

Media interested in covering the event, including a mission overview of STS-134, should contact the Clear Creek ISD Office of Communication at 281-284-0020.

Helen Hall Library eBooks are Available on Kindle!

Amazon® Kindle® owners now have access to Kindle® eBooks Helen Hall Library through www.leaguecitylibrary.org. The service is available through OverDrive® of Cleveland, founded in 1986- a digital distributor of eBooks, audiobooks, and other digital content used by more than 15,000 libraries, schools, and colleges worldwide.

Library Kindle® Books can be read on any generation Kindle® device, free Kindle® application, or through a browser with Kindle® Cloud Reader. Kindle® eBooks are available to those with a library card through the Library’s Overdrive page, which can be accessed through the “e-Library” tab on the Library’s homepage. There is currently a clickable picture of a Kindle® on the left hand side of the Overdrive page that links to a list of available Kindle® titles.

As with other titles from the library’s digital collection, the eBook will expire at the end of the lending period. For more information, please call Helen Hall Library at 281-554-1101.

Mayor’s Report | League City

The City Council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. All members of Council were present with the exception of Dan Becker who arrived at 6:58 p.m.

During Presentations, Proclamations, and Awards I made a presentation of a proclamation designating September 16-22, 2011 as "Constitution Week". A representative from the Sam Houston Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution was present to receive the proclamation. there's more...

CCISD’S The View Is Open For Business

The View, a full service salon staffed by CCISD Cosmetology students is announcing Fall 2011 community specials. Just mention “monthly specials” when making your appointment. Take $1.00 off any appointment before 5:00 P.M. on October 3, 10 and 24. Appointments are available from 1:00 – 8:00. The View Salon is located inside Clear View Education Center at 400 S. Walnut in Webster, Texas 77598. For appointments call 281-284-1586 or email TheView@ccisd.net. 

Please Don’t Pass Me By Because I’m Different 

SCP will continue to showcase its less-adoptable pets on Sept. 24th.  A special cage-card will alert prospective adoptive parents to the specific cats and dogs included in the program.  The card will read “Don’t Pass Me By Because I’m: special needs, older, shy, or less popular color/ breed, etc., Adopt me because I need you.” find out more...

School Boundary Advisory Committee

The Clear Creek Independent School District is forming the 2011-2012 School Boundary Advisory Committee (SBAC).  The mission of SBAC is to develop and present new boundary recommendations to the District's Board of Trustees for Elementary and Intermediate attendance zones for the 2012-2013 school year.

Employees of the District are not eligible to serve on the committee. All members shall be selected by random drawing.

Anyone interested in volunteering their time may submit information online at
www.ccisd.net/SBAC or you may request an application from the Office of Communications at 281.284.0020.  Completed forms must be received by 4:30 p.m., September 27, 2011.  Those interested in serving on the SBAC may mail the form to:
Clear Creek I.S.D.
c/o Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
P.O. Box 799
League City, Texas  77573

CCCC of PTAs’ Recognized by Texas State PTA

The Clear Creek Community Council of PTAs was recognized by the CCISD Board of Trustees at the August 29th meeting.  CCCC of PTAs received the 2011 Texas PTA Bronze Award for Outstanding Large Council and the 2011 Texas PTA Silver Award for Outstanding Council Website.  The CCCC of PTAs offers assistance and training to local unit PTA members and officers, fosters positive connections between PTA and the campus and assists local units as they bring programs to the students and parents.  CCCC of PTAs includes all local unit PTAs in the Clear Creek, Dickinson and La Marque ISD.

Pay Half Now – Half Later with Split Pay!

The August 1 deadline for Galveston County governments to opt out of the recently re-established split payment option by County Commissioners has passed and only four County Tax Office property tax collection customers have chosen not to participate – the City of Dickinson, Dickinson Independent School District, Galveston County MUD#12 (Bayou Vista) and Galveston College.

“As soon as the City of Dickinson opted out in July, the process of revising the consolidated tax statement began,” stated county tax assessor collector Cheryl E. Johnson.  “We are converting to a legal size statement in hopes of making the different payment options clear for property owners.  We are gearing up to launch a public education initiative that will hopefully reduce confusion caused by the changes to the statement.”  learn about it...

Constitutional Election November 8th

If history repeats itself, voter turnout for the November 8th Constitutional Amendments Election is likely to be very low.  The highest turnout since 1999 in Galveston County occurred in 2003 (13.3%) and in Texas in 2005 (18%).

This is pretty poor participation considering the issues.  For example, the year of lowest participation was 2001 and 19 amendments were proposed.  While one would think home improvement loans and cancellation of special elections for vacant legislative seats were important issues, same sex marriage – one of nine proposals in 2005 - garnered far more interest throughout Texas (surely not the land title issues in Upshur and Smith Counties).  The 22 amendments presented in 2003 had many Galveston County voters attention with hot button issues including changes to school funding, medical lawsuit reform and optional tax freezes for counties, cities and junior college districts likely having the greatest impact on voter activity. more...

Galveston Bay Foundation Receives Donation from StarFleet

Star Fleet the primary sponsor for the Redfish Raftup, held each year during the Labor Day weekend, contributed $2224.02 to the Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF).  Aboard the Star Gazer, Amy Alton, President of Star Fleet, presents the contribution to Emily Demmick, of GBF.

The mission of the Galveston Bay Foundation is to preserve, protect and enhance the natural resources of the Galveston Bay estuarine system and its tributaries for present users and for posterity.

Wildfire Victim Relief

As we all know, many Rotarians, families and friends in our community have been dramatically impacted by the current and recent fires. Many have lost their homes and all their belongings. In attempt to assist the Clubs in the affected areas help their fellow citizens in need, please join District 5890 Rotarians in offering our support by:

1. 1) Sending gift cards for Walmart, Target, etc. to Community Service Chair Ed Charlesworth at 11407
   Hylander, Houston, TX 77070

Seabrook Intermediate Student Places In National Competition

The Clear Creek Independent School District is proud to announce a current 8th grade student at Seabrook Intermediate School has earned semifinalist honors in a national science competition.

Tyler Raboin’s 7th grade science fair project was titled “Waves Versus Seawalls: The Disruptors.”
He made the top 300 in the nation out of 6,000 students in the Broadcom MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, Technology and Engineering for Rising Stars), a program for Society and the Public. Nominees are selected from the top 10 of the 6th, 7th and 8th grade participants in the United States.  get the scoop...

Friendswood In Top 10 Best Towns For U.S. Families

The City of Friendswood was recognized by Family Circle magazine (August 2011 issue) as one of the 10 best towns in the U.S. for families. A research firm looked at 2,500 cities with populations of 15,000 to 150,000, high concentrations of households with incomes between $55,000 and $95,000, quality schools, access to healthcare, green space, low crime rate and financial stability. The city captured the No. 5 spot. Friendswood was shown with a population of 33,773; Median Income of $89,222; Median Home Price of
$178,438; Households with Kids – 43%; Student/Teacher Ratio of 18:1 and a Great Schools Rating of 9.

Information provided by: Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership

Ellington International Airport Is A Happening Place These Days!

• The U.S. Coast Guard will build a four-story, approximately 100,000 SF regional office valued at $50 to $57 million; more than 350 will be employed at this location. And …
• The Lone Star Flight Museum will relocate to Ellington from Galveston within three years; its new building will cost approximately $17 million.
• Already located at Ellington, Texas Flying Legends Museum will build two new hangars – 20,000 to 30,000 SF each. Other museums are also considering a location at Ellington including a Korean War aircraft museum.  read more...

Bay Area Students Participate in Laser 4.7 Worlds

Four area high school students recently competed in the Laser 4.7 Worlds. Juniors, Hannah Goethe and Hannah Hughes and freshman, Howdy Hughes of Clear Falls High School along with Brad Shaw, senior at Clear Creek travelled to San Francisco for the regatta. After qualifying at various events throughout the year, the four were able to secure a spot amongst 170 competitors from 28 other countries. Six days of sailing were held in San Francisco Bay right at the Golden Gate Bridge. there's more...

Helen Hall Library Announces, Free Books

Helen Hall Library announces, free books for the first six Helen Hall Library patrons to register for “The Important Club!” more information...

2011-2012 CLASP Lecture Series To Explore Diverse Topics

Learn more about everything from Egypt’s revolution to how to apply the warrior mentality of a Navy Seal to everyday life from some of the leaders in their fields during University of Houston-Clear Lake’s 2011-2012 season of the Clear Lake Association of Senior Programs. The outreach program provides education and intellectual stimulation to people of all ages through three different speaker series events that begin in September and run through May 2012. more details...

Electricity Conservation Request From The Electric Reliability Council of Texas – Everywhere

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has requested all electricity consumers to conserve as much power as possible, especially during peak hours between 3 pm and 7 pm, while we are experiencing record high summer temperatures throughout the state.

You can help prevent rolling blackouts with these energy conservation steps

find out more...

Graduate Student Artwork Featured At Gallery

Experience the visual artistry of UH-Clear Lake’s Graduate Exhibition 2011 featuring the university’s graduate student artwork on display through Aug. 25, in the university’s Bayou Building, Atrium I, Art Gallery, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058. Sculpture, painting, photography and mixed media are showcased in this unique exhibit that is free and open to the public.

Gallery hours are Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to noon. This exhibition and the artists-in-residence are funded through the Art Exhibitions, Office of University Advancement, Cultural Arts, and the Office of the Dean of the School of Human Sciences and Humanities.

For more information, call Professor of Fine Arts Nick de Vries at 281-283-3377 or e-mail devries@uhcl.edu.

Art Exhibited At Pearland Corks & Canvas Event

Experience UH-Clear Lake student art and visit with other art patrons during the opening reception of Corks & Canvas, an event sponsored by the Pearland Arts League Aug. 6, 5 – 7 p.m., at the Pearland Recreation Center and Natatorium, 4141 Bailey Rd., Pearland, 77588. The student art exhibit will remain on display from Aug. 6 – 28. UH-Clear Lake will provide light hors d’oeuvres for the reception. The Pearland Art League supports the artistic efforts of the community by supporting and recognizing the work or area artists.

For more information about the Pearland Arts League, visit http://www.pearlandartsleague.com. For more information about the Pearland Recreation Center and Natatorium, visit http://www.pearlandparks.com/recreation_center.html. To find out about this event, call UH-Clear Lake’s Office of Alumni and Community Relations, 281-283-2040.

U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service Grant To Support Institute’s Research

University of Houston-Clear Lake Associate Professor of Biology and Environmental Science, George Guillen, received a research grant for $18,000 from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the proposal, “Estimation of Blue Crab Fishery Bycatch Mortality and Critical Life History Parameters of the Texas Diamondback Terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin littoralis.”

Guillen also serves as executive director of the Environmental Institute of Houston, a research, education and outreach program of the University of Houston System which is located at UH-Clear Lake. EIH was established in 1998 to address environmental issues affecting the greater Houston area and Texas.

Daisy Girl Scouts Donate Cookie Money to Helen Hall Library

Helen Hall Library in League City is the recipient of nineteen new books thanks to Daisy Girl Scout Troop 26270. Troop members donated $225.00 dollars of their cookie money to buy books for Helen Hall Library. Thank you to Troop 26270 for such a generous donation!
[Pictured left to right: Madison Kothari, Caitlyn Pearson, Lola Lindroos, Emma Steel, and Emily Korenek]

Vintage Cars Needed for Movie  - Katy

I need cars, 1967 or earlier to use for a movie being made in Katy on August 12th. for two hours at 9:00AM and then on August 16th at the football stadium next to Merrell Center in Katy, Texas at about 6:00PM.

The car and owner will be in the credits and they will receive a DVD of the movie. The owner will be the only driver. We need scenes at the school (in Katy) where it looks like they drive up before school starts. Then the kids walk into the school. It will be in the parking lot of Faith West Academy, 2225 Porter in Katy, Texas.

Please Joe Barfield at  281-961-7041 or email JWBarfield@sbec.com if you are interested,
There will be one other scene in need of a 1960 or earlier family type car, like an Impala or Galaxy.

Book Spine Poetry Winner Announced

Helen Hall Library in League City announces the winner of the Teen Book Spine Poetry Contest. Congratulations to Katelyn Zaro who submitted the winning poem. To get updates on library activities follow us on facebook at www.facebook.com/helenhalllibrary. Visit us online at www.leaguecitylibrary.org.

New Vehicle Fees Take Effect September 1

Nearly every vehicle owner in Texas will feel the impact of a vehicle registration fee simplification schedule that takes effect September 1.  Some will save a couple of dollars and some will spend a few more.  

More than seventy-nine trailer, vehicle and truck fees have been consolidated into three, over sixteen hundred weight classified fees were consolidated into seven, golf cart fees dropped four dollars and, although the License Plate Replacement Fee increased from five to six dollars, the Personalized License Plate Replacement dropped from thirty dollars to six.  Reflectorization and Plate Transfer Fees totaling $5.30 have been entirely eliminated. find out more...

Leadership Changes Announced For 2011-2012 School Year

School’s out for summer, but the Clear Creek Independent School District is already making plans for a stellar 2011-2012 school year. When students return to campus in August, some of them will find there’s a new principal and some new staff members welcoming them in the hallways.

Debra Dixon has been named principal of Clear Lake High School. She joins Clear Creek ISD from El Paso. Lauren Berryman-Ambeau, formerly an assistant principal at Falcon Pass Elementary, has been named principal of Ferguson Elementary in League City. more information...

Beginning Genealogy at Helen Hall Library

Helen Hall Library in League City presents a class on Beginning Genealogy on Thursday, July 7 at 10:00 am.  Professional genealogist, Nick Cimino, will instruct all interested individuals on a variety of motivations for studying your family history, the building blocks of a family tree, how to identify the relationships in your family tree, how to record your family tree in a variety of formats, and the proper methods for recording names, dates and places.  Mr. Cimino invites all participants to bring their family records to class and he will get you started in the right direction!  For more information, contact the Adult Services desk for more information at 281-554-1101.  Visit us online at www.leaguecitylibrary.org

Kemah Boardwalk Adds FantaSea Yacht
Courtesy of Jeff Newpher Houston Community Newspapers 

The Kemah Boardwalk is adding a new ride, too big for dry land--the FantaSea.

The 117-foot yacht, has joined the growing dining, gaming and entertainment empire of Houstonian Tilman J. Fertitta. He is the Owner, Chairman and CEO of Landry’s. keep reading...

Need Free Engineering Assistance For Your Products Or Services??      

The Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program is administered by the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership. It is a NASA and State of Texas funded initiative designed to transfer the knowledge and technology of the U.S. Space Program to small businesses, at no charge to them, to solve technical challenges they are unable to solve themselves.

Any type of small business is encouraged to submit a technical challenge to SATOP. If SATOP is able to assist, the business is provided with up to 40 hours of FREE technical assistance from a scientist or engineer in the space program.  find out more...

Last Call for Installment Pay Agreements!

If you are one of the 30,000 property owners struggling to pay 2010 property taxes, you have until June 30th to apply for a monthly payment agreement thus avoiding additional fees of up to 20% that will be added to unpaid balances July 1st.  Contact a Property Tax Specialist at 1-409-766-2481 or (toll free) 1-877-766-2284 for additional information on down payment requirements and monthly payment options or to arrange to have the agreement sent to other Tax Office locations.

Full time County Tax Offices are open from 8 am to 5 pm weekdays and are located in Galveston, League City, Santa Fe and Texas City.  A satellite office is open in Friendswood Thursday and Friday each week.  This office is closed from Noon to 1 pm.  Partial or full payments may be deposited in drop boxes located at each location or payment may be made on-line using e-check or credit card.  Visit the Tax Office website at www.galcotax.com and click on the red database button to access your account.  Not online?  Call toll free 1-877-766-2284 for actual office addresses and directions.

Senate Bill 432 Signed By Governor!

Governor Rick Perry signed Senate Bill 432 into law Friday, June 17th.  This bill reduces the penalty for late disaster payments from 12% to 6% which is a second win for Texas taxpayers since Hurricane Ike struck the Gulf Coast in 2008.

The Property Tax Code provides an installment payment option for properties damaged in a declared disaster.  When Hurricane Ike struck in 2008, only residential properties of up to five units qualified for this payment option. more information... 

Stage 3 Mandatory Water Rationing Plan – League City
Homeowners and Property Managers, The City of League City has imposed a Stage 3 Mandatory Water Rationing Plan.  We have attached the plan and flyer that contain the rules for use of water until further notification.

We are making every effort to notify our homeowner’s associations and their representatives that this is a serious matter and if the plan is not followed a $500 fine plus court costs will be assessed.  The City of League City is asking for total compliance to avoid having to progress to more extreme measures and rationing plans. details...

The Grand 1894 Opera House Star-studded Performing Arts Season for 2011-2012
 
“We’re Making History at The Grand” with a season opener that’s “Just Too Good To Be True” featuring Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons – center stage for “Oh, What a Night” on September 17th at 8pm.

Showcasing a season filled with performances that range from Legends like Carol Burnett, Frankie Valli and Vikki Carr; High Notes with The Midtown Men and The Texas Tenors; Laughter with Sinbad and A Tuna Christmas; Masters featuring Chris Botti, Natalie MacMasters and Donnell Leahy; Broadway productions including The Wizard of Oz and Young Frankenstein; and Encores by The Oak Ridge Boys, Ronnie Milsap and more – The Grand will, indeed, be making history. Don’t get sold out of your favorite shows! read on...

Space Center Intermediate Band Wins National Award

The John Philip Sousa Foundation, a non-profit organization, recently awarded three intermediate school bands the coveted Sudler Silver Cup Award, including CCISD’s Space Center Intermediate Band led by Director Donald McCandless.

The award is administered by the John Philip Sousa Foundation and sponsored by Louis and Virginia Sudler and recognizes truly great middle school bands of outstanding musical excellence. read on...

Seabrook Rocket Team Blasts Off At National Competition

The Seabrook Intermediate Rocket Team competed in the National Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC) in Manassas, Virginia on Saturday, May 14. The all girls 7th grade team qualified to compete as one of the top 100 teams in the nation.

more details...

Important Property Tax Deadlines Approaching!

Senior and disabled homeowners making installment payments on their property taxes need to be aware that the third payment is due by May 31st in order to avoid hefty penalty and interest charges (6% penalty and 1% interest).  The fourth and final installment will be due by August 1st so mark your calendars now!

Payment may be made in person at the Galveston, League City, Santa Fe, and Texas City branches of the Tax Office weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm, Friendswood City Hall Thursday and Friday from 8 am to 5 pm (except for one hour from Noon to 1 pm) and the Crystal Beach office which is open the third Tuesday of each month.  Payments may also be deposited in drop boxes located at most locations or paid on-line using e-check or credit card.  Visit our website at www.galcotax.com and click on the red database button to access your account.  keep reading...

Dee Scott Recipient of League City Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Leadership Award® of the Bay Area

Today, during the inaugural League City Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Leadership Award® of the Bay Area, Dee Scott of Dee Scott Insurance Agency was named the 2011 ATHENA recipient at Lakewood Yacht Club. 

After developing an insurance company of her own, Scott quickly became active in the League City Chamber of Commerce realizing her success would be found in developing relationships with the owners of small businesses.   Through the years, Scott’s countless work in nonprofit organizations, including but not limited to, Communities in Schools, League City Rotary Club, CHRISTUS Health Foundation, League City Economic Development Board and the North Galveston County YMCA has provided her the opportunity to mentor numerous women in business.  Her tireless dedication to the Clear Creek Independent School District gives Scott another avenue to foster emerging community leaders. find out more...

Mayor’s Volunteer Houston Award – Bay Area Houston

"Determined" Clear Lake woman receives Mayor's Volunteer Houston Award.
If you haven't visited the Assistance League of the Bay Area Resale Shop, you are missing an opportunity to meet a local hero.

Jill Smitherman, a volunteer member of Assistance League of the Bay Area-- and its resale shop chairman--was honored as one of twelve 2011 Mayor’s Volunteer Houston Award Winners at the Mayor’s Volunteer Houston Awards luncheon on Thursday, May 5 at the Hilton Americas-Houston.

more information...

Committed to Excellence in Education - Bay Area Houston

Dear Community Members,
As many of you know, I am a longtime resident and business owner in League City. I care deeply about our community, our families and our future. As President of the Clear Creek Independent School District’s Board of Trustees, I am asking for your support. We need you to help Save Our Schools.

If you’ve been watching the headlines, you are aware the surrounding school districts are laying off teachers and increasing class sizes. Clear Creek ISD is reassigning staff, trimming administrative staff through attrition and slashing operation costs by $9.4 million. The truth is… that’s not enough. If our state legislators continue down this path, CCISD will lose $20-$45 million next school year. That is up to 16% percent of the District’s budget. find out more...

Clear Creek High School Senior Named A United States Presidential Scholar

Armiya Humphrey, a senior at Clear Creek High School, has been named a United States Presidential Scholar.  Armiya is one of only 141 seniors from across the country to be selected by the U.S. Department of Education for this honor. U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan made the announcement on May 4th.

Armiya was selected for her outstanding academic achievement, leadership, citizenship, and contributions to her school and community.  Armiya has won a free four-day trip to Washington, D.C. for a series of recognition events that will culminate in a June 21st Medallion Ceremony at The White House with President Obama. read on...

K. E. Little Students Attend Career Fair

Students from K. E. Little Elementary School in Bacliff recently attended the school's Career Fair, where they visited booths featuring 45 different vocational/career fields. Booths represented a variety of fields from cosmetology to auto technology to aeronautical engineering to the law.

"We stress every day to our students how important it is to finish high school and go on to college or trade school. At the Career Fair, the students saw how many choices are available to them," said Malika Greene, program coordinator for Communities In Schools-Bay Area (CIS-Bay Area). get the details...

Mayor’s Report | League City

National Merit® $2500 Scholarship & Corporate Sponsored Winners Named

League City -- National Merit $2500 Scholarships winners were announced today by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Clear Creek ISD is proud to have 7 winners from Clear Lake and Clear Brook High Schools: there's more...

Clear Creek ISD Graduations Set For June

League City – Clear Creek ISD will host its high school graduation ceremonies June 2-5, 2011. The graduation date, time, and location for each campus is listed below: read on...

NASA and Johnson Space Center 

It's not news to you that NASA and the Johnson Space Center are very important anchors to the economic health of Bay Area Houston and the entire state.  We fought some pretty tough battles last year on behalf of the NASA Authorization Act, but that was last year.   Decisions made by Congress THIS YEAR will affect our local economy for years to come!!!   So, once again, we're asking you to step up to the plate to make sure that Congress knows that Texas and our Citizens for Space Exploration group is a force to be reckoned with! read on...

April 28 - League City Candidate Forum and Debate – League City

In an effort to fulfill its mission of "Growth through Partnership: Business/Community/Government", the League City Chamber of Commerce will once again hold its annual Candidates Forum and Debate.  Candidates for League City Mayor and Council Position #2 have been invited to discuss their visions for the City of League City at the Johnnie Arolfo Civic Center on Thursday, Apr. 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

get the details...

Clear Creek ISD Announces 2011 Teachers Of The Year

The Clear Creek Independent School District is proud to announce the
2010-2011 Teachers of the Year. They were nominated by their peers as representatives of the best of CCISD.

A team of district administrators will now take on the difficult task of determining six finalists from the list below.  A committee of administrators and community representatives will select the Elementary Teacher of the Year and the Secondary Teacher of the Year from those six finalists. read on...

Dickinson Independent School Open House - Dickinson

The Dickinson Independent School District will host an open house and ribbon cutting from 5-6:30PM for its new Education Support Center, located at 2218 FM 517 East, near the intersection of Timber Drive and FM 517. The event is open to the public. A ribbon cutting will take place at 6:00 p.m. there's more...

South West International Boat Show at South Shore Harbour Marina, League City, Texas

April 14th – 17th, 2011 the Fall Boat Show moves to Spring and kicks off the 2011 boating season.  South Shore Harbour Marina will once again play host to the largest and most exciting in-water boat show to come to Houston and the Lone Star State – the South West International Boat Show.

Bay boats, powerboats, luxury yachts and more sailboats than previously seen at a Boat Show in Texas, including Jeanneau, Hunter, Beneteau, Catlina, Lagoon and more to come.  In all over 300 boats in-water and onshore, many ready to demo, will be on display together with the latest water toys and much, much more. read the details...

March 28 thru May 19, 2011 – UHCL Fine Arts Exhibit - Houston

April 7, 5-7 p.m., opening reception
UH-Clear Lake Bachelor of Fine Arts students will exhibit their artwork juried by Houston artist Elaine Bradford through May 19. Opening reception is scheduled for April 7, 5 – 7 p.m. Gallery hours are Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 9 to noon. This exhibition and the artists-in-residence are funded through the Art Exhibitions, Office of University Advancement, Cultural Arts, and the Dean of Human Sciences and Humanities of the University of Houston-Clear Lake. For more information call Nick Devries at 281-283-3377 or e-mail devries@uhcl.edu. University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, 77058.  Bayou Building, Atrium I, Art Gallery

League City Water Customers Asked To Conserve During Water Shutoff Next Tuesday

The main transmission line carrying water from Houston into League City is to be shut down for several hours Tuesday, March 22, cutting off most of League City’s water supply while necessary repairs are made to a valve belonging to the City of Houston.

Although the City has storage capacity to help deal with limited water supply and will still receive a relatively small amount of water from the Gulf Coast Water Authority, residents and businesses are asked to voluntarily limit water usage Tuesday. This includes ceasing all landscape irrigation until the necessary repairs are completed and normal water flow is restored. read on...

The Cost of Being Taxed

The Tax Office currently contracts with all cities, most school districts, both junior college districts and a handful of special purpose districts providing assessment and collection services at a cost of $0.32 per parcel ($1.01/parcel for out of county properties)—less than the cost of a stamp.

This year, we collected nearly $352M at a cost to our collection partners of $164,000…not a bad return on investment.  How can we do this for so little money?  We have no choice.  The law allows county tax offices to charge only the “incremental additional cost” which equates to a line of ink and a handful of additional personnel and their infrastructure needs. get the details...

Mayor's Report - League City

The City Council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. with all members present except Councilman Baron. During Appointments, Proclamations, Presentations and Awards, Council appointed Shane Hamilton to Position # 3 on the Planning and Zoning Commission with a unanimous vote. 

In Citizens Request for Hearing Before City Council, 2 residents spoke about the progress of the Butler Longhorn Museum. more info...

Consumer Alert: Residential Property Tax Consultants Must Honor Contractual Agreements With Homeowners

Last November, the Texas Attorney General’s Office resolved a 2009 legal action against Houston-based O’Connor & Associates, a property tax consultant that represented residential property owners before local appraisal districts. The settlement negotiated by the State may affect the rights of current and former O’Connor clients who are residential homestead property owners in Texas. read on...

Call To Entry!  Attention Texas Artists!

The Arts Alliance Center at Clear Lake announces an opportunity for artists to enter a competition. Subject matter: boats or cars in appropriate settings. All media, 2-D & 3-D accepted. Exhibit at the 16TH Annual Keels & Wheels Concours D’Elegance, a national exhibition of wooden boats and classic cars in Seabrook, Texas April 30-May 1, 2011. Winning art will be displayed in a large tent on the grounds of Lakewood Yacht Club. $500 First Place, $300 Second Place, $100 Third Place, Prize winners and approx. 10 Honorable Mentions will be exhibited on the grounds of the Yacht Club.  1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners will also be exhibited at The Arts Alliance Center in 2012-13.  One artist will receive an exhibition at the Nau-Haus Gallery in Houston. find out more...

Pinning Ceremony Held At University of Houston-Clear Lake

University of Houston-Clear Lake Police Department held a special pinning ceremony in February to welcome two newcomers to the department and honor two recently promoted police officers. Pictured are (in front) Victor Unger, junior officer; (l to r, back) UH-Clear Lake Police Chief Paul Willingham; Sgt. Melissa Moss; Lt. Allen Hill; new Police Operations System Supervisor Paul Ayala; new hire Dispatcher Nicole James.

Rep. Taylor Named Chairman Of House Elections Committee

Today, Speaker Joe Straus named Rep. Larry Taylor (R-Friendswood) Chairman of the House Elections Committee of the 82nd Legislature. 

"The freedom to vote is a sacred right that should be protected, appreciated, and held dear," Taylor said.  I'm honored to be selected to serve in this capacity by Speaker Straus and am eager to get to work."
find out more...

Dropout Prevention Program Sponsors Dental Care for At Risk Students

Communities In Schools-Bay Area (CIS-Bay Area) recently sponsored a two-day Smile Texas Mobile Dentist program for 60 at risk students at McWhirter Elementary School and Clear View High School.  Dental screening, cleaning and X-rays were performed by Dr. Norman Weiss (in rear) and dental hygienist Sue Thayer.

CIS-Bay Area is a dropout prevention program serving 15 campuses in Clear Creek and Dickinson Independent School Districts. For more information on the program, visit www.cisba.org.

Robinson Elementary Library Renamed After Longtime Principal – Bay Area

On Monday, January 24, 2011 the Clear Creek ISD Board of Trustees approved a request from Robinson Elementary to name the library after longtime CCISD principal and teacher, Jim Stephens.

Stephens retired in December of 2010 after serving children for more than 42 years. He worked on various campuses in various roles including principal of Seabrook Intermediate, Weber Elementary which he opened as principal, Space Center Intermediate which he opened as principal, and Clear Lake and Clear Creek High Schools where he was a teacher. Stephens opened what would be his last campus, Robinson Elementary School, in 2006. Students celebrated his many years of service with a farewell ceremony in December that included skits, songs and speeches.

Clear Creek ISD To Hold Elections In May – League City

The Clear Creek ISD Board of Trustees approved an order calling for a School Board Trustee Election and a Special Election to be held on Saturday, May 14, 2011.

CCISD will hold Regular Elections for the following vacancies:

• District 2 currently held by Win Weber
• District 3 currently held by Ken Baliker there's more...

Bayside Band Flamingo Fundraiser – League City

The flamingos are coming! The flamingos are coming! Get ready for some fun!!!!  Plastic pink flamingos will be flying around the League City and surrounding neighborhoods in order to raise badly needed funds for the Bayside Intermediate Band, located at the Education Village in League City.

Flocks range in size from 12-40. If you would like to order a flamingo flock for a friend, neighbor, a teacher or loved one, please visit www.baysideknightsband.com to download an order form, or email us at flamingoknights@gmail.com for more information.  We appreciate your support!!

Paying Your 2010 Property Taxes – Galveston County

Following the tradition of the last six years, the Galveston and League City branches of the Galveston County Tax Office will be open from 7 am to 6 pm, Monday, January 31st, the last day to pay 2010 taxes without accruing penalty and interest.  The Santa Fe and Texas City Tax Office branches will be open 8 am to 5 pm. Get more info...

CCISD Debate Teams Prepare For State

The Clear Lake and Clear Brook Speech and Debate Teams continue to compete in hopes of earning enough points to compete at the state tournament.

A small contingent of the Wolverine Debate Team attended Katy High School’s 10th Annual Tiger Classic the weekend of January 14th and 15th as they continue to accumulate needed points toward Texas Forensics Association state qualification.  The team pared down their entries this weekend with a solid focus on Extemporaneous Speaking and Lincoln Douglas Debate.  find out more...

Butler Longhorn Museum wins Best Local Museum – League City

Mayor’s Report – League City

Host an Exchange Student – Bay Area

World Heritage Student Exchange Program, a highly respected, non profit, public benefit organization, is seeking local host families for high school boys and girls from France, Germany, Thailand, Japan, China, Spain, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Italy, the Middle East and the former Soviet Republics. Students are already awaiting word on their host family for the 2011-2012 academic school year. Host families provide room, board, and guidance for a teenager living thousands of miles from home. Couples, single parents, and families with and without children in the home are all encouraged to apply. read more...

Fifth grade boys organize clothing drive to benefit Assistance League of the Bay Area

The Assistance League of the Bay Area’s Resale Shop recently received a very special donation from an unexpected group of philanthropists – 5th grade boys from Falcon Pass Elementary.

Selected to be part of a “leadership cluster” at Falcon Pass, five boys were tasked with taking on a project of their own choosing.  The only requirement of the project was that it demonstrate leadership skills.

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