Bay City Magazine

MAGAZINE Bay City

May/June 2023

BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT

ULTIMATE BIRDING EXPERIENCE

GET TO KNOW PATROL SERGEANT PENA

Editor's Note

Summer is upon us, and you know what that means — burgers on the grill, lots of fun in the sun, the smell of the salty sea breeze, the electric bill skyrocketing and parents waiting for school to start again.

While you and your family are outdoors having fun this summer be sure to take a few precautions. Don’t forget to lather on the sunscreen, hydrate, be mindful about water safety and know the signs of heat exhaustion.

For good measure, you should also be wary of poison ivy. Any time I’m exploring in the backyard or camping I pick it up. While some of you may think this is a childhood itch that you’ve never experienced as an adult — count your blessings. I’m convinced it scratches even worse when you get it as an adult and don’t even get me started on the pink calamine lotion, it doesn’t work. When in doubt, follow the old adage, “Leaves of three, leave them be.”

For sunscreen, you’re going to want to choose one that’s SPF 30 or higher with broad-spectrum (UVA/ UVB) protection and water resistant as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. I’m not a fan of applying sunscreen myself, so I always grab the Sun Bum Sunscreen spray. It may have a high price point, but when I wear it, it feels like I’ve got nothing on. There’s no stickiness and it smells like I’m on vacation.

Toss on a bucket hat or ball cap if you’re planning to stay outdoors for an extended time. There’s nothing worse than scalp burn. We’ve all been there. One minute you’re lounging on the beach, the next day you feel and see the burn. I like a hat that I can take to the beach or wear just around the garden. My pick is a simple straw bucket hat that will protect my scalp and hair.

This summer, I plan on partaking in all things summer related including kayaking on the Colorado river, making s’mores and camping out on Matagorda beach. Whatever you decide to do this summer, make sure to keep our wildlife areas free from litter and always be aware of your surroundings.

Ashley Brooking

Editor,

Looking for ways to beat the heat this summer?

Look no further than the City by the Sea Museum. Located in the sleepy coastal town of Palacios, the museum houses permanent exhibits that include artifacts and replicas of Karankawa history and exhibits of the shipwreck of La Belle. The shipwreck rested undisturbed in the muddy Matagorda Bay for over 300 years until being located in 1995. It was one of the last remaining ships of four sent on expedition by French King Louis XIV to establish a colony and trade routes

and find silver.

In addition to its permanent exhibits the museum also periodically features local artist’s paintings.

The museum will host a special guest lecture from Clare Elliott, assistant curator of The Menil Collection in Houston, on Saturday, June 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. She’s curated a number of exhibitions including one titled Forrest Bess: Seeing Things Invisible.

On display for view at the museum from now until June 24, is Coming Home: Paintings by Forrest Bess, which showcases several of Bess’s paintings from private collections in Matagorda County.

Check out the museum’s website for more information on events, programming and ways to get involved at citybytheseamuseum.org.

If you make a day trip out of your visit to Palacios and be sure to stop by the Old Main Bookstore and Coffee Shop located on Main Street. The bookstore is run by Jan Pierce and her trusty shop cat, Buddy. Find new and old novels and plop down for a visit and cup of coffee.

(Editor’s Note: On my last trip to the shop, I picked up 50 Simple Things you can do to Save the Earth and a Collection of Poems by Marjorie Meeker Radley.)

For lunch or dinner, mosey on over to Danny’s Seafood House that overlooks the Tres Palacios Bay. You can’t go wrong with fresh fish and oysters, and nearly every Saturday night there’s live music to enjoy.

How to ensure a relaxing day for Mom this Mother’s Day

The unconditional love and undying patience moms exhibit as they raise their children is worthy of more than just a single day of appreciation in May. Moms do a lot for their families, and though that’s something to celebrate every day, Mother’s Day merits upping the ante in regard to showing Mom how much she’s loved and appreciated.

This year, families can work together to en sure this Mother’s Day is a day for Mom to relax and bask in all the extra attention she deserves.

• Serve breakfast in bed. Mom might be on breakfast detail on hectic weekday mornings, but Mother’s Day marks the perfect time for spouses and kids to take over those responsibilities. This year, keep the cereal in the pantry and go the extra mile by preparing a homemade breakfast and serving it to Mom in bed. Present the meal with a small bouquet of flowers and some reading material and then let Mom eat in peace and quiet if she so prefers.

• Turn the en suite into a spa. Nothing complements a relaxing breakfast in bed better than a subsequent dip in Mom’s own private spa. Transform the en suite or another bathroom into Mom’s personal soaking space. Clean the bathtub, light some candles around the tub and bathroom, turn on some relaxing music, dim the lights, and then invite Mom in to soak in a freshly drawn hot bubble bath.

• Keep Mom out of the kitchen. Keep the relaxing vibe going

by making sure Mom doesn’t have to lift a finger in the kitchen. Make sure all the dishes are washed before Mom comes downstairs for the day and let her know you’ve already ordered lunch from a local restaurant. Even if Mom loves to cook, a day off from kitchen detail can make Mother’s Day that much more relaxing.

• Book some time in the great outdoors. If the weather allows, visit a nearby park as a family and go for a walk. Nature has its own way of helping people relax, so some time outdoors in the spring air can keep the peaceful vibe going into the afternoon. If the family includes young children, choose a park with a playground so Mom can relax and watch the kids play from a nearby bench.

• Book a dinner reservation. It might require some advance booking, as Mother’s Day reservations can be hard to come by, but a night at Mom’s favorite restaurant can be the perfect conclusion to a relaxing day. If Mom’s more of a homebody, whip up a homemade meal and let Mom relax with a glass of wine as you prepare a feast.

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to plan a day of relaxation for mothers who do so much for their families throughout the year. Some simple planning can ensure Mom gets the R&R she deserves.

Flock to Matagorda County for the ultimate birding experience

Whether you’re a seasoned, lifelong bird watcher or new to the hobby, Matagorda County is the place for you. With over 234 different species of birds, it’s no wonder the county has been number one in the nation in the North American Audubon Christmas Bird Count since 1997.

One of the hot spots for bird watching lies just outside Bay City at the Matagorda County Birding Nature Center. The center sits on 38 acres of Colorado River front property and offers nature trails, wetlands, woodlands, gardens and an outdoor education center. There are benches and blinds strategically placed to let you blend into nature while watching for wildlife. On the east side of the park, you can enjoy an observational deck with access to the Colorado River for kayaking or canoing.

The nonprofit center relies on support from the public through entry and membership fees to help maintain the grounds and operate educational workshops. Their mission is to raise public awareness and involvement in nature through education, conservation and eco-tourism.

Another spot just outside Bay City is Riverside Park which boasts 100 acres of waterfront land. The regional park is home to over 180 species of birds and includes 34 campsites and 40 RV spaces. The park strives to protect and preserve the area that promotes quality recreational and outdoor experiences for the community. They hope to enrich the quality of life for present and future generations in a safe and secure environment.

The rules of birding are simple. Respect and promote the welfare of birds and their environment.

This means supporting the protection of bird’s habitat and avoiding stressing birds or exposing them to danger. Keep away from known nests and bird feeding sites. Always try to minimize habitat disturbance.

Respect and promote the law and rights of others.

Don’t enter private property without the landowner’s permission. Respect the interests of and interact positively with people living in the area where you’re birding.

Things you’ll need:

Binoculars

They’re an essential tool for birders. Buy the best binoculars you can afford.

Hiking shoes or boots

This is self-explanatory. If you’re birding in a local park, tennis shoes will do fine, but if you plan on walking off the beaten path, consider getting a good pair of hiking shoes that are comfortable with good tread.

A refillable water bottle

No matter the temperature outside, staying properly hydrated is essential. Always bring a full bottle with you, just in case.

Bottom line get outside. Birds are everywhere. You don’t have to go too far to go birding. Gear up, keep yourself safe and be patient.

Fun and adventure awaits

LCRA Parks summer camps provide Texas youth from communities near Houston, Bay City and Palacios a summer full of fun and adventure, welcoming campers ages 5-16. The LCRA Park summer camp at Matagorda Bay Nature Park is now open for registration with camp dates starting June 12. Each week pertains to an outdoor theme with a variety of activities to keep children entertained and engaged with nature: Just south of Bay City, Matagorda Bay Nature Park‚ summer camp is all about the open ocean and exploring the outdoors. LCRA Park offers free shuttle service from Bay City, Wadsworth, Selkirk and Matagorda. To note, two of the weeks offer single or multi-day camp options for children to explore different outdoor themes without a week-long commitment. Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children ages 5-16 can attend up to six weeks of day camp. Standard camps are $225 per week. Single and multi-days camps are $125 per day. Outdoor themes consist of Coastal Safari, Legends of the Gulf, Seeing the Sea, Open Ocean, Seaside Science, Aquatic Adventures.

Meet Bay City Police Department Patrol Sergeant Pena

1. What is your title? Patrol Sergeant

2. How long have you been an officer? 7 ½ years

3. What made you sign up to be an officer? Being an Officer you have the privilege of experiencing the best of both worlds. 1) Putting the bad guys in jail & 2) Helping others in need

4. Are you the first officer in your family? No, I have several cousins who are detectives for Chicago PD, worked for Border Patrol, and South Padre Island PD.

5. What is/was your proudest moment? My proudest moment has been getting promoted within the agency and helping other Officers like me to succeed.

6. What’s your favorite thing about your career? No day is the same in our line of work. You never know what to expect or what type of call your getting dispatched to. As an Officer you get to experience and see things no one else does in their normal day to day jobs.

7. What did you want to be when you were little? WNBA player

8. If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be? Canoe over a bioluminescent beach.

9. What’s the best advice you could give to

someone? Make the day, don’t let the day make you.

10. What’s your favorite movie? Why? I enjoy any movie that can make me laugh.

11. What’s your favorite sport?

Basketball

12. What’s most unusual thing you’ve ever eaten? The most unusual would be cow tongue, but its Delicious!

What song best sums you up? Titanium, David Guetta featuring Sia, this song is about being strong even when the world is throwing its worse at you.

14. On a scale of 1-10 how funny would you say you are? 9.9999

13.

Ingredients:

2 mangos, peeled and chopped

Zesty Mango Salsa

This is something I’ll be snacking on all summer long. It’s more like pico de gallo than salsa, but with a twist—there’s fruit in it! I know what you’re thinking…mango does not belong in salsa. Let’s not make this a pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza debate. Try it, or don’t — but you’ll be the one missing out. Scoop it up with tortilla chips or top chicken with it, this salsa doesn’t disappoint.

½ red bell pepper, seeded and chopped

1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped

¼ red onion, chopped

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon chili powder

Tortilla chips, for serving

In a bowl, combine the chopped mangoes, bell pepper, jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt and chili powder. Mix gently to combine. Serve with tortilla chips.

Jalapeño Margarita

Summer is hot, you’re hot, why not make a feisty, spicy cocktail too? With tajin, fresh lime and orange juice, this spiced up margarita will transport you to a sunny, Mexican resort in no time. Extra room service, please!

Here’s what you’ll need:

2 ounces or about 3 tablespoons of Tequila. Use your favorite, but I prefer a mild tequila so I’m going with 808’s Blanco (silver) tequila.

3 tablespoons lime juice. Fresh juice only here, bottled lime juice is a no go in this household.

1 tablespoon orange juice. Again, we’re going the old-fashioned way and squeezing it ourselves.

1 ½ teaspoons agave. To add a touch of

sweetness and balance the spice.

¼ to ½ jalapeño pepper cut into thin, round slices. The secret to the spice.

Tajin. A popular Mexican seasoning made with dried chilies, salt and lime zest. I put this on fruits like pineapple and strawberries, and it’s a dream for a rimmed margarita. (If you prefer to go the classic way, suit yourself. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this ‘rita.)

For one margarita, rim your glass. Pour a thin layer of tajin onto a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the top edge of the glass to get the salt to stick. Then, dip the glass into the salt upside down, tapping all the way around. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.

Fill a small cocktail shaker with ice. Add your tequila, lime juice, orange juice, agave and jalapeño slices. Put the lid on and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into the rimmed glass and immediately enjoy If you’re feeling fancy, garnish your glass with a lime wedge and additional jalapeño slices.

Fiction: The Sounds of Wings

by Suzanne Simonetti

Seventy-year-old Goldie Sparrows faces declining finances, questionable health, and a late husband who torments her from the beyond. She seeks refuge in her butterfly garden, which is filled with voices and memories from long ago.

Jocelyn Anderson is a struggling writer who finds escape from her custody battle in the journal of her late mother-in-law. As she gets pulled through the pages of time, Jocelyn discovers her own husband has a hidden history she knows nothing about. Is this secret now Jocelyn’s to keep?

Krystal Axelrod is living a life she never dreamed she could have. And yet the demons of a dysfunctional childhood and mean girl culture from her cheerleading days cast their shadow over her ability to feel whole, capable, and worthy. Does Goldie hold the key to Krystal’s path to freedom?

Youth: The Moon from Dehradun: A Story of Partition by Shirin Shamsi

Azra knows that wherever she goes, her doll Gurya will follow. Even if it’s on a train that will take her far away from the house her family has lived in for generations. Even if there is a new flag flying in Dehradun, and no place left in it for Azra. At least she will be taking a piece of home with her.

But when Abba comes home and says they must leave right now, Gurya gets left behind in the scramble. Will Azra be strong enough to face the long journey alone? And what will happen to Gurya, now hundreds of miles behind them?

Inspired by the author’s family story, this lyrical, moving picture book is a testament to the strength, courage, and perseverance of the over 10 million refugees displaced by the largest forced migration in recorded history, and shares a young girl’s journey from her old home to a new one.

"Check out" these books suggested by the Bay City Public Library

Nonfiction: Solito: A Memoir

by Javier Zamora

Trip. My parents started using that word about a year ago—“one day, you’ll take a trip to be with us. Like an adventure.”

Javier Zamora’s adventure is a three-thousandmile journey from his small town in El Salvador, through Guatemala and Mexico, and across the U.S. border. He will leave behind his beloved aunt and grandparents to reunite with a mother who left four years ago and a father he barely remembers. Traveling alone amid a group of strangers and a “coyote” hired to lead them to safety, Javier expects his trip to last two short weeks.

At nine years old, all Javier can imagine is rushing into his parents’ arms, snuggling in bed between them, and living under the same roof again. He cannot foresee the perilous boat trips, relentless desert treks, pointed guns, arrests and deceptions that await him; nor can he know that those two weeks will expand into two life-altering months alongside fellow migrants who will come to encircle him like an unexpected family.

A memoir as gripping as it is moving, Solito provides an immediate and intimate account not only of a treacherous and near-impossible journey, but also of the miraculous kindness and love delivered at the most unexpected moments. Solito is Javier Zamora’s story, but it’s also the story of millions of others who had no choice but to leave home.

Teen: The Love Match

By Priyanka

Taslim

Zahra Khan is basically Bangladeshi royalty, but being a princess doesn’t pay the bills in Paterson, New Jersey. While Zahra’s plans for financial security this summer involve working long hours at Chai Ho and saving up for college writing courses, Amma is convinced that all Zahra needs is a “good match,” Jane Austen style.

Enter Harun Emon, who’s wealthy, devastatingly handsome, and…aloof. As soon as Zahra meets him, she knows it’s a bad match. It’s nothing like the connection she has with Nayim Aktar, the new dishwasher at the tea shop, who just gets Zahra in a way no one has before. So, when Zahra finds out that Harun is just as uninterested in this match as she is, they decide to slowly sabotage their parents’ plans. And for once in Zahra’s life, she can have her rossomalai and eat it too: “dating” Harun and keeping Amma happy while catching real feelings for Nayim.

But life—and boys—can be more complicated than Zahra realizes. With her feelings all mixed up, Zahra discovers that sometimes being a good Bengali kid can be a royal pain.

Father’s Day gift ideas for all types of dads

Gaming Dad - The draw of popular video games doesn’t abate for some men as they get older. If your dad is at home with game controller in hand, then gifts that feed his hobby can be ideal.

Virtual reality has made great strides. Devices that enable VR game play and other entertainment may appeal to Dad. There are a few options on the market, like the Oculus, Pico Neo, HTC Vive, and Valve In dex.

Another option is to gift the Nintendo Switch Console, which enables your dad to play at home connected to the television or on the go with the handheld controller and screen combination so he never misses a chance to engage in game play.

Sports Dad - Tap into your father’s love of sports with gifts tailored to his passion. Baseball and soccer are played during warm months, so tickets to a game is something dads and their children can do together. You also can cheer his team on in front of a new big-screen television he gets for being such a great dad.

Outdoorsman Dad - If your dad is most at home with a fishing pole and tackle box, kayaking a nearby body of water, or hiding in a tree stand during hunting season, then gifts that cater to his love of the great outdoors are perfect. Insulated

thermoses, waterproof bags for storing phones or wallets, multitools, backpacks, and hiking boots make great gifts.

Techy Dad - Does the idea of the latest “smart” offering get your father all revved up? Then purchase gifts that cater to his love of gadgets. Maybe he can use a new tablet or laptop that bridges the gap between home and office. Could it be time to upgrade his smartphone? A doorbell camera or home security kit can help Dad keep an eye on the comings and goings around the house when he’s away. Or help him create surround lighting effects that can react to content on the screen or music being played with LED smart lighting strips.

Practical Dad - Some fathers don’t want flashy gifts, instead preferring ones that can be used everyday. Think about a new paper shredder or identity block roller stamp to keep sensitive information safe. If Dad takes long road trips, then he might be able to use a car visor extender or a smartphone holder. Shelving, racks or storage straps for the garage also may put a smile on Dad’s face.

This year, make Father’s Day a smash hit with gifts that cater to Dad’s interests.

Have an upcoming event? Make sure it gets included in The Buzz! Send the event information over to us by emailing the who, what, when & where to: ashley.brooking@baycitytribune.com

MAY 13

The VFW post 2438 will host the community of Matagorda County in welcoming home the heroes of the Vietnam War in a special ceremony to be held on Saturday, May 13 beginning at 5:30 p.m. The VFW is located at 1672 State Highway 60 North, Bay City. To register for the event or for more information contact Deanna McGraw at 713-870-1300 or djmcgraw74@gmail.com

The Bay City Parks and Recreation and Prodigy Discs will host a disc golf tournament on Saturday, May 13 starting at 9 a.m. on the freshly renovated 24-hole layout in Le Tulle Park. The park is located at 1135 South Hwy 35. For more information contact cycleworkstx@gmail.com or visit www. discgolfscene.com/tournaments/Bay_Citys_Big_Oak_Challenge_2023

MAY 19

Tidehaven High School Class of 2023 graduation will be held on Friday, May 19 at 8 p.m. at the Tiger Stadium, located at 144 FM 1095, El Maton.

MAY 19 - 20

Bay City Parks and Recreation is bringing back the annual Fishing Tournament at Riverside Park on Friday, May 19 and Saturday, May 20. The tournament is open to all ages. Competitors are divided into three age categories: Kid Fishing (ages 10 and under), Youth Fishing (ages 11 to 17), and Adult Fishing (18 and up) with prizes for first, second and third in each group. To register or for more information call Riverside Park at 979-245-0340 or Parks and Recreation at 979-323-1660.

MAY 25

Van Vleck High School Class of 2023 graduation will be held on Thursday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at the Burl McKinney Stadium, located on Avenue J, Van Vleck.

MAY 26

Bay City High School Class of 2023 graduation will be held on Friday, May 26 at 7 p.m. at the Bay City High School Sta-

dium, located at 400 Seventh Street, Bay City.

Palacios High School Class of 2023 graduation will be held on Friday, May 26 at the Shark Stadium, located at 100 Shark Drive, Palacios.

MAY 27

The Artisan & Crafter Market will host Market Day on the Matagorda County Courthouse square located at 1700 Seventh Street, Bay City on Saturday, May 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come check out some amazing vendors and get yourself a new addition to your home. For more information call 361-314-2226 or email admin@acmtexas.com

JUNE 17

City by the Sea Museum will host a guest lecture by Assistant Curator at the Menil in Houston, Clare Elliott, on Saturday, June 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. Elliott has curated several exhibitions including one titled Forrest Bess: Seeing Things Invisible that traveled to four different locations within the United States in 2014. For more information contacts the museum at 361-972-1148. The museum is located at 401 Commerce Street, Palacios.

JUNE 23 - 25

The 15th annual Sargent Tournament of Heroes benefiting nonprofit organization Serve Outdoors will be on Friday through Sunday of June 23 through 25. Soldiers/veterans will arrive on Friday afternoon and depart Sunday morning. Hosts and Boat Captains are needed for this event. Contact Debbie Arning at 281-814-2962 or dcarning@aol.com for more information. If you’d like to donate an item(s) for the auction or help sponsor the event contact Rhonda Sandefer at 979-482-1066 or rsandefer13@gmail.com

JUNE 24

The Artisan & Crafter Market will host Market Day on the Matagorda County Courthouse square located at 1700 Seventh Street, Bay City on Saturday, June 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come check out some amazing vendors and get yourself a new addition to your home. For more information call 361-314-2226 or email admin@acmtexas.com.