Inside La Marque Summer 2026

Summer 2026

I N S I D E LA MARQUE

Community news from the City of La Marque and the La Marque Economic Development Corporation

The Shops at La Marque Hurricane Preparedness Gold Star Affiliate Cover photo by Pete Vasquez

Photo featuring Mac McGaffey Highland Bayou Park.

GENE SMITH Chairman La Marque EDC Board ALEX GETTY Executive Director La Marque EDC 409-938-9258

View our Shine On video series on Youtube by scanning this QR Code.

The front cover features a photograph of a spider lily plant.

This photo was taken in La Marque by resident Pete Vasquez and submitted through the Spring La Marque Photo Contest.

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06 Summer at the Library

CONTENTS

MARIELLE MASCORRO Public Relations Specialist La Marque EDC 409-938-9255

05 Gold Star Affiliate Safety 07 Back-to-School with the Fire Department

08 The Shops at La Marque 10 Time Capsule 12 Public Works 13 Hurricane Preparedness 14 Employee Spotlight

La Marque EDC 1130 1st Street La Marque, TX 77568

FOLLOW US TO STAY UPDATED ON IMPORTANT LA MARQUE NEWS facebook.com/LaMarqueEDC

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Hello Friends, As we move into the summer season, there is a great sense of momentum, energy, and community pride across the City of La Marque. This year has already brought important progress, meaningful conversations, and successful events that continue moving our city forward.

One of the highlights of the year was the tremendous success of BTR Cajun Throwdown at La Marque Bayou Fest. Through a strong partnership with BTR, this year’s event saw record attendance and brought families, visitors, vendors, and entertainment together over two exciting days. Events like BTR Cajun Throwdown at La Marque Bayou Fest are important because they strengthen community spirit, support local activity, and remind us of the pride we all share in our city.

We also hosted another successful Hurricane Huddle, which brought together families, emergency management professionals, public safety personnel, community organizations, and vendors to help residents prepare for hurricane season. Preparedness remains a major priority along the Gulf Coast, and the strong turnout showed that our community understands the importance of being informed, connected, and ready.

Earlier this year, we held our State of the Cities Address, where we openly discussed the successes, challenges, and opportunities facing La Marque. While every city faces obstacles, we remain committed to accountability, transparency, and moving La Marque forward responsibly and sustainably. We are continuing to focus on financial discipline, infrastructure, neighborhood improvement, and long-term growth opportunities for our residents.

Another important accomplishment was the successful completion of the city’s audit in accordance with state law and financial guidelines. This work reflects our continued

commitment to strong financial oversight and responsible management of taxpayer resources.

As summer begins, many exciting activities and opportunities are also underway throughout our city. Our library continues to offer outstanding summer reading programs that encourage learning, imagination, and educational growth for children and families.

Summer camps and youth programs are helping keep our young people active, engaged, and connected during the school break.

We are also proud to continue our annual summer internship program for high school and college students. This initiative gives young people valuable experience in local government and public service while helping develop the next generation of leaders and professionals. Investing in our youth remains one of the best investments we can make for the future of La Marque.

In the months ahead, the city will also begin important budget workshops as we continue planning responsibly for the future while balancing the needs of our residents and essential city services.

Summer is always a special time in La Marque.

It is a season filled with activity, opportunity, and community connection. Together, we will continue working hard, supporting one another, and building a stronger future for our city.

I wish everyone a safe, productive, and enjoyable summer.

With gratitude and pride,

Mayor Keith Bell Inside La Marque | Summer 2026

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CITY UPDATES

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! July 22-24

JULY 3

Grand Galvez, Galveston

The Houston-Galveston Area Council's first-ever Lights, Camera, Action! film conference brings together local leaders, industry experts, and community partners to explore film development opportunities in Texas. This three-day experience explores recent film funding in Texas and how communities can boost economic development by becoming a Film Friendly Texas Certified Community and learning how to showcase what makes their community unique.

City Offices Closed Independence Day

13 City Council Meeting 16 City Council Meeting

Scan for more details about HGACs Lights, Camera, Action!

10 Mayor Bell's Small Business Series

ADAPTIVE DANCE: LUAU Sunday, August 30

Hometown Heroes Park, League City

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Get ready to hula and groove at the Adaptive Luau Dance for a night full of music, dancing, and tropical fun! This event is specifically designed for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

SEPTEMBER

GULFSTOCK 2026

City Offices Closed Labor Day

28 City Council Meeting

Friday, August 7

Get ready for and unforgetable evening featuring high-energy bingo, raffle prizes, live auction, food, and drinks while supporting a great cause. Grab your friends and join the TCLM Chamber for a night full of fun, fellowship, and fundraising, Cajun style.

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TCLM CHAMBER BAYOU BINGO Doyle Convention Center

AUGUST

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EVENTS HAPPENING IN GALVESTON COUNTY

Saturday, September 5 Saengerfest Park, Galveston

Scan for more details about TCLM Chamber Bayou Bingo!

This is the second annual veteran fundraiser and awareness festival, created to honor those who have served while bringing the community together for a meaningful day of music, fellowship, and support.

HOUSTON METHODIST TEXAS CITY TRI Saturday, September 19

Scan the QR Code to register for calendar updates, community news and Council agendas at alerts.cityoflamarque.org.

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Texas City Dike and Bay Street Park

This event features beginner-friendly openwater swimming, a fast and flat bike course along the Texas City Dike, and a scenic run through Bay Street Park. Swim 500 meters, Ride 15 miles, and Run 3.1 miles.

CITY UPDATES La Marque Recognized as Gold Star Affiliate

by Keep Texas Beautiful

T

he Keep La Marque Beautiful Commission has earned Gold Star Affiliate status from Keep Texas Beautiful, recognizing exceptional leadership in community beautification and environmental stewardship.

The City of La Marque is proud to announce that Keep La Marque Beautiful has been recognized as a Gold Star Affiliate by Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB), the organization’s highest honor for local partners across the state.

The Gold Star designation is awarded to affiliates that demonstrate exceptional leadership and measurable impact through sustained programs, strong partnerships, and meaningful community engagement.

Keep La Marque Beautiful earned this distinction for its ongoing efforts to litter, promote recycling, and enhance the city’s overall environmental

reduce quality.

“Our affiliates bring our mission to life every day. We are proud to recognize those who are leading the way as Gold Star Affiliates,” said Sara Walters, Executive Director of Keep Texas Beautiful. “These communities exemplify excellence in community leadership by mobilizing volunteers, advancing meaningful projects, and fostering a culture of care and pride.”

Across Texas, Keep Texas Beautiful affiliates play a vital role in community improvement.

In 2025 alone, more than 100,000 volunteers contributed their time, representing over $4 million in service value based on Independent Sector estimates. Keep La Marque Beautiful was a key contributor to this statewide impact, providing residents with comission to take pride in their community through participation and stewardship.

Gold Star Affiliates represent the highest standard within the Keep Texas Beautiful network. To achieve this recognition, affiliates must go beyond baseline requirements by expanding programming, investing in training, documenting measurable outcomes, and cultivating strong local partnerships. The award reflects a level of commitment that distinguishes top-performing communities across Texas.

Keep Texas Beautiful formally recognized its 2026 Gold Star Affiliates during the organization’s Virtual Conference on May 12–14, 2026.

The City of La Marque celebrates this achievement as a reflection of the dedication of its Keep La Marque Beautiful Commission, volunteers, and community partners who work together to create a cleaner, more vibrant city for all.

Inside La Marque | Summer 2026

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SUMMER AT THE LIBRARY

KP

IID DZZ KIDZ PACKZ ACCKKZZ A

Now through August, La Marque Public Library is providing free food packs to qualifying youth, ages 2-18.

Sign up now!

Contact Library Staff for more information at 409-938-9270.

La Marque La Marque Public Public Library Library Summer Reading Summer Reading Program Program

H T R A UNE R Y O A ST O

Now through July 23 Fun-filled summer programs every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday!

Make prehistoric crafts and win prizes for reading challenges all summer long!

LA MARQUE GATEWAY TO THE GULF

Scan the QR Code to stay up to date on the latest Library events!

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FIRE DEPARTMENT Back-to-School Safety: La Marque Fire Department Helping Students Start the Year Safe and Prepared

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s summer comes to an end and students head back to the classroom, the excitement of a new school year also brings increased traffic, busy school zones, and new routines for families.

The La Marque Fire Department encourages everyone to take a few extra precautions to help keep our children safe throughout the school year.

School Zone Safety

School zones become some of the busiest areas in our community during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times. Drivers should always obey posted speed limits, eliminate distractions, and remain alert for children who may unexpectedly cross the street. Remember that children can be difficult to see, especially in crowded parking lots and near school buses.

Bus Stop Safety

Parents should review bus stop safety with their children before the first day of school. Students should arrive at their bus stop a few minutes early, remain a safe distance from the roadway, and avoid horseplay while waiting. Children should never walk behind a school bus and should always make eye contact with the driver before crossing in front of the bus.

Walking and Biking to School

For students who walk or ride bicycles to school, safety starts with visibility and awareness. Encourage children to use designated crosswalks, obey traffic signals, and stay alert by avoiding cell phones or headphones while crossing streets. Bicycle riders should always wear a properly fitted helmet and follow the rules of the road.

Learn CPR – You Could Save a Life

Emergencies can happen anywhere, including at school, sporting events, and community activities. The La Marque Fire Department strongly encourages all adults and teenagers to learn CPR. Quick action by a bystander can make the difference between life and death during a cardiac emergency.

We are proud to offer affordable Community CPR classes for residents. The next class will be on July 18, 2026. To register and to learn more please contact Captain Black at a.black@cityoflamarque.org.

Emergency Preparedness Back-to-school season is also a great time to ensure your family is prepared for emergencies. Make sure your child knows: • Their full name • Their home address • A parent or guardian's phone number • How and when to call 9-1-1 • What information to provide during an emergency Practicing these important safety skills can help children respond confidently if an emergency occurs.

As we begin another school year, the La Marque Fire Department wishes all students, teachers, and families a safe and successful year. By working together and practicing smart safety habits, we can help ensure every child arrives at school and returns home safely each day.

Inside La Marque | Summer 2026

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Major Retail Development Coming to La Marque

E

xciting news is on the horizon for La Marque as a major retail development is set to bring new shopping destinations and economic opportunities to the community. The Shops at La Marque, located at the highly visible intersection of Interstate 45 and FM 1764, will welcome several nationally recognized retailers, including Academy Sports + Outdoors, Marshalls, HomeGoods, Ross Dress for Less, Burlington, PetSmart, and more.

With more than 200,000 square feet of retail space, this development represents a significant investment in La Marque's future and reflects the community’s continued growth. La Marque has the most Interstate 45 frontage in Galveston County, providing exceptional visibility and accessibility for retailers while serving residents throughout the region.

The new retail center will offer residents more convenient shopping options close to home, reducing the need to travel outside the community for everyday purchases. Whether shopping for home goods, sporting equipment, pet supplies, 8

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or everyday essentials, residents will soon have more choices available right here in La Marque. In addition to expanding local amenities, the development is expected to create new jobs, attract visitors from neighboring communities, and generate additional sales tax revenue that supports city services and infrastructure.

As La Marque continues to grow, projects like The Shops at La Marque help strengthen the local economy and enhance residents' quality of life. This exciting addition marks another step forward in the community’s ongoing growth and reflects the momentum that continues to shape La Marque’s future.

Conceptual renderings courtesy of Main Street Commercial Partners.

Inside La Marque | Summer 2026

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CITY UPDATES A Piece of La Marque History: Time Capsule Opening in 2027

T

ucked within Walter Feigle Park is a small but meaningful piece of La Marque history, quietly waiting to be rediscovered.

A plaque marks the location of a time capsule buried on May 21, 1977, with instructions that it be opened exactly 50 years later, on May 21, 2027. As that milestone approaches, our community has a unique opportunity to reconnect with the people, stories, and memories that helped shape La Marque nearly half a century ago.

The capsule was created by a dedicated group of local leaders and volunteers whose names remain preserved on the plaque. Among them were Mrs. C.V. Rice, (Chairman), Mrs. Clifford Polk, Father Jim Olsovsky, Councilmen Alex Pratt, Jack Kivich, Jr., Jack Nash, Dennis J. Payne, and then-Mayor Harold K. Choate. Their vision was to leave a message for future generations of La Marque residents.

As anticipation builds for the capsule's opening, the City is also looking back to learn more about the events surrounding its burial. Residents who have photographs, newspaper clippings, or memories from May 1977 are encouraged to share them. These pieces of history can help paint a fuller picture of what life in La Marque was like when the capsule was placed beneath the ground.

While this is the only confirmed time capsule currently documented in La Marque, stories have surfaced over the years about possible capsules at other locations, including Queen of Peace Church and the junior high campus. If you know of a time

capsule at one of these sites, or anywhere else in the community, the City would love to hear from you.

The City is also interested in connecting with relatives of those involved in creating the time capsule or residents who may have firsthand knowledge of the project. Their stories and memories can help bring this chapter of La Marque's history to life.

As May 21, 2027, draws closer, plans are beginning to take shape for what promises to be a special community event. Residents will have opportunities to participate in celebrating the opening of the capsule and preserving the history it reveals. If you have information, memories, or photographs related to the time capsule, please email pr@cityoflamarque.org.

CITY OF LA MARQUE, TEXAS Gateway to Growth on the Gulf Coast

BY THE NUMBERS STRATEGIC LOCATION Prime position between Houston & Galveston Direct access to I‑45—one of Texas’ busiest corridors Rail access supporting freight and industrial connectivity Minutes from Galveston Island beaches and the tourism industry Near ports, petrochemical industry, and logistics hubs

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20,000+

POPULATION BUILT FOR GROWTH High-visibility sites along the I‑45 corridor Available land for commercial, retail, and mixed-use development Expanding opportunities for residential development Positioned for regional economic expansion

14.25

SQUARE MILES

14.3 MILES

I-45 Frontage - most in Galveston County

CONNECTED WORKFORCE

COMMUNITY & LIFESTYLE

Access to talent across four school districts: Texas City ISD Hitchcock ISD Santa Fe ISD Dickinson ISD Close to College of the Mainland and University of Houston for workforce training Regional workforce rooted in energy, maritime, healthcare & trades

Coastal small-town feel with big-city access Growing, diverse community with affordable housing options Strong sense of identity and resilience

PARKS & RECREATION Neighborhood parks & open space Easy access to water and outdoor recreation

WHY LA MARQUE? Unmatched interstate connectivity and opportunity Gateway to the Gulf Coast economy Room to grow, for businesses and families like yours!

CITY UPDATES La Marque Budget Workshops Start in June

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s part of the next fiscal year’s budget development process, the City of La Marque will review these three General Fund budget scenarios during the upcoming budget workshops: No-New Revenue Budget, 3.5% Revenue Increase (adoptable by City Council), and Voter-Approved Tax Rate Increase.

These scenarios were developed and presented to the public during the City’s Budget Talks series held over the spring months.

Feedback and discussion from those sessions helped guide staff recommendations that will be presented during the budget workshops.

The City’s annual budget workshops will begin towards the end of June, with the full schedule to be discussed at the June 22 City Council meeting. Each workshop is a publicly posted meeting held with the City Council.

Budget Workshops will use the same format presented during the Budget Talks series:

Residents can view a recap of the Budget Talks series on YouTube and watch all the Budget Workshops live. Please register for city alerts to get budget meeting notices sent straight to your text or email.

La Marque Voters Decide: Williams Leads District B Runoff, Incumbent Griffin Secures District D Seat

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s of press time, based on currently reported unofficial results from the Galveston County Elections Office, Sade Williams is the projected winner of the La Marque City Council District B runoff election.

Williams received 100 votes (67.11%), while Joe Compian received 49 votes (32.89%), with a total of 149 votes cast. These results, last updated on June 15, 2026, remain unofficial until formally canvassed. The Galveston County Elections Division will officially canvass the results in the coming days. Following certification, the City of La Marque will call a special City Council meeting in late June 2026 to administer the oath of office and swearing-in ceremony for Sade Williams as District B Councilmember.

The runoff election, held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, was ordered by the City of La Marque through Resolution No. R-2026-013 after no candidate secured a majority vote in the May 2026 general election. Four candidates initially competed for the District B seat—Felix Brown, Joe Compian, Jody Richards, and Sade Williams—with Compian and Williams advancing to the runoff.

Sade Williams pictured above.

In addition to the District B outcome, voters also decided on the District D race during the May election, where incumbent Tonia Griffin defeated opponent Sarah Lowry, securing her seat on the City Council without the need for a runoff. Together, these elections complete the City’s 2026 Council races.

The City emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and extends its congratulations to Sade Williams and Councilwoman Tonia Griffin, while also expressing sincere appreciation to Mayor Pro Tem Joe Compian and all candidates for their dedication to public service.

Residents

can

view

official

election

information

and

final

certified

results

at

galvestonvotes.org

Inside La Marque | Summer 2026

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PUBLIC WORKS PUBLIC WORKS PREPARES FOR HURRICANE SEASON Hurricane season is here, and Public Works is already preparing the City’s infrastructure for heavy rain and severe weather. Throughout the year, crews work to clean drainage ditches, maintain stormwater systems, inspect lift stations, and prepare equipment to help reduce flooding and keep essential services operating during storms. During major weather events, Public Works staff respond around the clock to roadway hazards, drainage concerns, debris removal, and utility issues. Residents can also help by keeping storm drains and ditches free of grass clippings, trash, and debris to allow water to flow properly during heavy rainfall.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades The City is currently rehabilitating the existing wastewater treatment plant to improve reliability, efficiency, and overall treatment performance. As part of the project, the plant’s chemical feed system used for disinfection is being upgraded with new equipment and controls to improve disinfection before treated water is discharged into Highland Bayou.

Disinfection plays a critical role in reducing harmful bacteria and microorganisms in treated wastewater, helping protect public health and the environment. The upgraded system will allow for more accurate chemical dosing, improved monitoring, and more consistent treatment, resulting in cleaner water being safely returned to Highland Bayou while continuing to meet strict environmental regulations.

Employee Spotlight: Andre Johnson Andre Johnson is a valued member of the City of La Marque Street Department and plays an important role in keeping our streets safe and clean for the community. As part of a two-man crew, Andre works daily to repair potholes using cold mix and remove debris throughout the city.

His hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving the residents of La Marque do not go unnoticed. We appreciate Andre’s positive attitude and the pride he takes in helping maintain our city each day.

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HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE

MAKE A PLAN • BUILD A KIT • STAY INFORMED

Take action now to protect your family, home, and community.

2. BUILD A KIT

1. MAKE A PLAN

Be prepared for all hazards

Know your evacuation zone and route Choose a family meeting location

3. STAY INFORMED Follow trusted sources

Have enough supplies for at least 3-7 days

Monitor weather updates

Prepare an emergency kit with: Water (1 gallon per person, per day)

Sign up for City of La Marque emergency alerts: www.cityoflamarque.gov/664/ Alerts-Notifications

Non-perishable food

Select an out-of-area emergency contact

Flashlights & batteries

Follow Galveston County Office of Emergency Management and National Weather Service

Cell phone chargers & power banks

Sign up for emergency alerts Plan for pets, medications, and special needs family members Buy an AM/FM radio with alternate power sources

Cash First-aid supplies & medications Important documents (insurance, IDs, medical records) Pet food & supplies

Visit GCOEM.ORG or WEATHER.GOV/HGX

For preparedness resources and the latest weather information.

BEFORE YOU EVACUATE Secure outdoor furniture and loose items

Cover windows and doors if needed

NEED EVACUATION ASSISTANCE? The State of Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) is a free registry that provides local emergency planners and emergency responders with additional information on the needs in their community.

512-913-2353 | stear.texas.gov

Bring in trash cans and decorations

Turn off utilities if instructed

Take your emergency kit with you

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

911

For life-threatening emergencies City of La Marque Office of Emergency Management

409-938-9262

Scan for City of La Marque Emergency Alerts & Notifications

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

RIAN BROUSSARD ◊ What is your favorite part about working for the City of La Marque?

My favorite part is being able to serve the community behind the scenes.

◊ People would be surprised if they knew: People would be surprised to know that I am pretty much a homebody and naturally a bit shy.

◊ How do you spend your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family.

DEPARTMENT: FINANCE DEPARTMENT TITLE: ACCOUNTANT 1 START DATE: MARCH 2025 Rian handles day-to-day accounting tasks such as processing financial records, assisting with reports, and helping ensure accurate and organized financial information for the city.

◊ How do you define success?

I define success as doing my job well and being dependable. It’s also about continuous growth and improvement.

◊ Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I see myself continuing to grow in my accounting career, taking on more responsibility, and becoming even more confident and experienced in my role.

We would also like to recognize the Utility Billing Department! The team has done an outstanding job handling customer concerns during the recent water rate increases in the City of La Marque. Even when residents come in with concerns about higher water bills, the staff continues to remain calm, patient, and professional. They do an excellent job listening to customers, answering questions, and maintaining a positive attitude during difficult situations. Their professionalism and dedication to serving the community do not go unnoticed, and we truly appreciate all their hard work.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Coming Soon to La Marque!

3030 FM 1764

401 Laurel

3201 FM 1764

AutoZone is a leading automotive parts and accessories retailer that provides replacement parts, maintenance products, tools, and vehicle accessories for cars, trucks, and SUVs. Founded in 1979, the company has grown into one of the largest auto parts retailers in North America, offering customers quality products, helpful advice, and services such as battery testing, check engine light diagnostics, and loaner tools.

Blackwood PI and Security School is Galveston County’s premier training center for future private investigators and security professionals. Their curriculum is designed to meet the standards of the Texas Department of Public Safety. They offer courses in Level II, III, and IV security certifications, private investigation training, and continuing education courses. Blackwood prides itself on having a student-centered approach suitable for newcomers and seasoned professionals, led by local expertise with over two decades of experience.

Dollar Tree is a leading discount retailer that offers a wide variety of household goods, seasonal decor, health and beauty products, and more.

With thousands of stores across the United States, Dollar Tree is known for providing customers with exceptional value and a fun shopping experience. Dollar Tree is committed to helping families, businesses, and communities stretch their budgets while finding quality items at great prices.

Save the Date

MAYOR BELL'S SMALL BUSINESS SERIES Monday, August 10, 2026 5:30pm-7:00pm La Marque Public Library 1011 Bayou Road, La Marque, Tx

Keep an eye on our social media page for more information about this event!

Inside La Marque | Summer 2026

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1111 Bayou Road La Marque, TX 77568

Summer Safety Wear Sunscreen Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Reapply every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.

Drink water Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. Increase intake if you're active or spending extended time in the heat.

recognize heat illness symptoms Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, such as heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and confusion.

Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.

Swim Safety Always swim with a buddy and ensure that children are supervised by an adult. Use life jackets in open water.