LETTER FROM THE Chair
Dear Members & Friends,
One of the greatest privileges of being part of the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce is recognizing the incredible individuals and businesses that make our community thrive. As we step into 2025, we have two major events ahead that exemplify this commitment to celebrating greatness.
First, our Annual Awards Banquet on February 20 will shine a well-deserved spotlight on our Volunteer of the Year, Business of the Year, and Nonprofit of the Year—honoring those who dedicate their time, resources, and passion to bettering La Porte. Then, in March, we will gather for the State of the Cities Luncheon, where we will proudly present the inaugural J.B. Williamson Humanitarian Award, recognizing the first of many individuals whose selfless acts of service have left behind a legacy.
These awards are not just ceremonial; they are meaningful acknowledgments of dedication, hard work, and community spirit. And I want to emphasize—the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce is the only reputable
organization authorized to present these honors. When you see a Chamber award, you know it carries true distinction and integrity.
I encourage each of you to join us in these celebrations. Let’s take the time to reflect, appreciate, and be inspired by the remarkable individuals and businesses shaping our future.
Thank you for your continued support of the Chamber and our mission to uplift La Porte. I look forward to seeing you at these special events!
Warm regards,
Angie
Thatcher
Angela Thatcher 2025 Chair of the Board La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Angela Thatcher Chair of the Board
air products , llc Serving Through 2024
Austin Lloyd VP of Marketing Development cornerstone systems Serving Through 2026
Monica Beynaerts coastal ice & water Serving through 2027
Shannon Cotham fischers hardware Serving through 2026
Scott Gernander san jacinto college Serving through 2025
Kristen Martin
barretts heating & ac Serving through 2024
Alan Robb port houston Serving through 2027
Mayor Rick Helton city of la porte
Jeff Martin President email
Michelle Thomas Chair Elect of the Board
celanese clear lake plant Serving Through 2025
James Perrin VP of Business Development
sulzer turbo services , inc . Serving Through 2025
DIRECTORS
Mark Bookmyer
lyondellbasell industries Serving through 2024
Clint Dubec kaneka north america Serving through 2026
Kelly Green heat plant services Serving through 2025
Dausha Moore-Wright
vaughn realty & co . Serving through 2025
Alex Solis
dupont bayport Serving through 2027
Chad Warden the wooden spoon kitchen & bakery Serving through 2026
EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS
Preston Bearden Past Chair of the Board bayou city industrial contractors , ltd
Mayor Tim Harris city of morgan ’ s point
Dr. Walter Jackson
superintendent , la porte isd
Scott Halbrooks VP of Community Development
oxychem la porte vcm Serving Through 2027
Jackson Wagner VP of Economic Development hca houston healthcare southeast Serving Through 2027
Ali Busch
texas stress , inc . Serving through 2025
La’Jasmine Fitch
kuraray america Serving through 2026
Brandon Lunsford garden of eden floral & tearoom Serving through 2025
Derrin Riddick
enterprise products Serving through 2026
Sheree Turnage
mitsubishi chemical Serving through 2026
Mayor David Jennings city of shoreacres
CHAMBER STAFF
Megan Weaver Vice President email
Naomi Richison Marketing Coordinator email
Jackie Olvera Administrative Assistant email
Get to Know the Board
Each month we showcase a couple of our board directors giving you the opportunity to know our leadership team
Sheree Turnage
James Perrin
If you could describe James in one word, it could very well be ‘driven’, and it’s this drive that draws inspiration from those he encounters.
James joins us representing Sulzer Turbo Services, Inc., where he has worked for about 13 years, coinciding with his marriage to his wife, Nicole, with whom he shares two children with. James enjoys boating, beach days, and cycling when he’s not on the job. In fact, the accomplishment he’s most proud of is earning the title of Texas State Champion in cycling and bike racing!
We are very pleased to have such a driven individual serving on our Board of Directors through 2025.
We are delighted to introduce Sheree, one of our board directors who brings enthusiasm, curiosity, and a zest for learning to our team. Sheree’s love for expanding her understanding of the world is evident in everything she does, from engaging in DIY home improvement projects to exploring diverse cultures.
This open-mindedness and appreciation for diversity enhance her contributions to our board, as she brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table.
Sheree’s friendly demeanor and genuine interest in others make her an invaluable asset to our team. We are fortunate to have her on our board, and we look forward to the exciting ideas and insights she will continue to bring to our organization.
NEWS FROM THE Chamber of Commerce
Sylvan Beach Planning Officially Underway
Get ready, La Porte! The 69th Annual Sylvan Beach Festival is fast approaching, promising to be bigger and better than ever. Mark your calendars and prepare for an incredible day of entertainment, food, fun, and community celebration at this beloved event!
This year’s festival will feature an amazing lineup of musical talent, including Aaron Watson, the soulful sounds of Uncle Lucius, young up-and-comer Ty Myers, and the local favorite Big Jordan Band.
The festival wouldn’t be complete without its signature traditions. We begin Sylvan Beach Day with the annual parade, which you can register for online. There is no cost to participate. Applications for the Miss Sylvan Beach Pageant are now closed, and the Children’s Pageant applications will be available soon. Vendor and cook-off registration will also be available within the coming week, so continue to check the sylvanbeachfestival.com website for updates and applications.
Sponsorship opportunities are also still available, offering businesses the chance to showcase their support for the community while gaining valuable exposure during La Porte’s largest event! Last year, we estimate about 25,000 individuals joined us for this fun-filled day!
A big change affecting our locals this year is the ticket prices at the gate. Historically, we’ve offered discounted tickets for purchase at the festival gates, however we have restructured our ticketing prices. Early bird tickets are available online thru the month of February for only $12.50 each. During March ticket prices will be raised to $15, and tickets purchased at the gates will be $20 all day. Guests with a La Porte zip code on their ID will be granted discounted entry for $15 at the gate. Please help us get the word out on the new ticket breakdown.
We can’t wait to see you all at Sylvan Beach for this unforgettable celebration. Stay tuned for updates by following the Sylvan Beach Festival Facebook Page as we reveal more details. Let’s make this year’s event one to remember!
Recognizing Excellence at Upcoming
Annual Awards Banquet
The La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce its Annual Awards Banquet, a time-honored celebration of excellence and community spirit. This prestigious event will take place on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the iconic Monument Inn. The evening kicks off with a cash bar reception at 5:00 pm, providing an opportunity for networking and camaraderie as we prepare to honor some of the incredible individuals and organizations that make our community shine.
This year’s banquet will recognize the remarkable contributions of our Volunteer of the Year, Business of the Year, and Nonprofit of the Year—three awards that highlight the dedication, innovation, compassion, and servitude found within the La Porte-Bayshore community.
We’re looking forward to honoring our Volunteer of the Year, Amanda DeAlejandro, a devoted employee of Community First ER, who exemplifies the heart of volunteerism through her tireless efforts to support and uplift our community. She can be counted on time and time again to show up and put a smile on your face.
Our 2024 Business of the Year award will go to OxyChem La Porte VCM, a leader in the industry and a cornerstone of La Porte’s economy. OxyChem has set the standard for excellence in business and com-
munity involvement. For instance, their dedication to local schools and educators through the La Porte ISD Partners In Education Program not only provide immediate assistance, but for years to come.
The Bridge Over Troubled Waters, our 2024 Nonprofit of the Year, is an outstanding organization who has made a profound impact by providing critical resources and support to those in need and fostering hope in challenging times.
The Annual Awards Banquet is more than a celebration; it’s an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the past year and look forward to a future of continued growth and collaboration.
We invite you to join us for an evening of fine dining, heartfelt recognition, and inspiring stories. Seats are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early. Let’s come together to honor those who make La Porte an exceptional place to live and work.
For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit bit.ly/LPC-AnnualBanquet25. We look forward to seeing you there!
Proud to support the neighborhood
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Support La Porte’s Future Business Leaders at the Young Entrepreneur Expo
Join us March 1, 2025 for the Young Entrepreneur Expo (YEE), where La Porte ISD students will showcase their creativity, ambition, and business savvy! With nearly 40 student-run vendor booths, this exciting event gives young entrepreneurs the chance to put their hard work into action—creating, marketing, and selling their own products.
Held each spring, YEE is a collaborative effort between the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce and La Porte ISD to provide students with hands-on business experience. Thanks to the generous support of local sponsors, including presenting sponsor, OxyChem La Porte VCM, participating students receive free educational resources that guide them through the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
With the mentorship of parents, teachers, and business leaders, students learn to set goals for
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their business, develop a product from concept to creation, manage a budget and seek potential investors, choose a location and market their brand, and deliver great customer service.
On Young Entrepreneur Expo day, the students officially open for business at Baker 6th Grade Campus, keeping the profits they earn. They are encouraged to follow a responsible financial model—spending some, saving some, and sharing some with a local charity of their choice.
This event is more than just a marketplace—it’s an invaluable learning opportunity that helps shape the future business leaders of our community. Come out and show your support for these young entrepreneurs as they take their first steps into the world of business!
For more information, visit bit.ly/LPC-YEE25
Take Advantage of First Official La Porte City Guide!
Your membership directory is being upgraded! Beginning in 2025, the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the City of La Porte to bring to life the Official Guide to La Porte & Chamber Member Directory!
This comprehensive city guide will combine the convenience of the digital age and the practicality of
traditional printed media, giving visitors and consumers all the information they want, however they want, about the La Porte-Bayshore communities. The Official Guide will feature general municipal information and demographics, area history, local events and points of interest, lodging accommodations, dining establishments, and so much more! The incorporation of the Chamber Membership Directory makes this guide the only guide you need for the La Porte area!
This is your opportunity to showcase your business to current area residents, visitors from across the state, developers, and more! Since the guide will be produced “in-house”, we can offer all the flexibility without the hassle compared to prior years; plus, more of your investment remains with the chamber, enabling us to put more money back into community and business programs.
Reserve your ad space today and see the ad rates at bit.ly/LPC-AdvertiseInGuide! For more information, contact Naomi Richison at naomi@laportechamber.org, or call 281-471-1123.
State of the Cities Luncheon Returns with New Honor
The La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to bring back one of our most anticipated events of the year—the Annual State of the Cities Luncheon on Thursday, March 13, 2025! This event provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from our local leaders about the progress, challenges, and future plans for our community.
We invite you to join us as the Mayors of La Porte, Morgan’s Point, and Shoreacres provide key updates on the state of their cities, including major developments, community initiatives, and successes over the past year. Additionally, La Porte ISD Superintendent, Dr. Jackson, will share important insights into the district’s achievements and future goals, ensuring we stay informed about the education and growth of our students.
This year’s luncheon is particularly special as we will proudly present the inaugural J.B.
Shoppers engage with young entrepreneurs encouraging students to make wise business decisions.
in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to our community.
The chamber will donate $500 to his church and a plaque will be on display at City Hall commemorating the annual award recipients. Moving forward, a selection committee will be established. If you would like more information, contact Jeff Martin at jeffmartin@laportechamber.org.
We will gather at the La Porte ISD Bulldog Centre, and we truly hope you can attend! Mark your calendars and register online at bit.ly/LPC-SOTC25 by Monday, March 10th to secure your spot.
This is an event you won’t want to miss—come be part of the conversation and celebrate the progress of our great cities!
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COMMUNITY BUSINESS BREAKFAST
This event is open to everyone! There is no cost to attend, so please come out and network with your business neighbors while enjoying the most important meal of the day and a positive message!
Refreshments will be served, so please RSVP no later than February 19th at noon. RSVP
Williamson Humanitarian Award to Keith Trainer
La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce Kicks Off the Year with a Spectacular Membership Mixer
On January 16, the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce hosted its first Membership Mixer of the year at the stunning Hawthorne at Fairmont luxury apartment community. The event was a fantastic opportunity for networking, fun, and an exclusive look at one of the area’s most exquisite living spaces.
Guests were treated to light snacks, including a sublime charcuterie board, along with champagne and other refreshments. The atmosphere buzzed with friendly competition as attendees enjoyed shuffleboard, pool, and foosball, creating the perfect setting
for making new connections.
Adding to the experience, the Hawthorne at Fairmont’s welcoming staff provided tours of their beautifully designed property, showcasing spacious 1-3 bedroom homes, a resort-style pool with cabanas, a putting green, co-working spaces, a two-story gym, and more.
With representatives from 38 different businesses in attendance, the evening was a huge success, reinforcing the Chamber’s mission of fostering strong business relationships within the community. A big thank you to Hawthorne at Fairmont for their generous hospitality and to all who joined us for this unforgettable night! We look forward to seeing everyone at our next event!
RIBBON CUTTINGRound Up
(832) 542-9860
queenofblondes2024@gmail.com
La Porte has a new crown jewel in the beauty industry—Queen of Blondes Studio. This highend salon, located prominently on Spencer Highway, is redefining the local beauty scene with talented stylists, professional makeup artists, brow specialists, and lash technicians. Always looking to expand their services, the
team is eager to welcome more beauty professionals into their growing business.
Queen of Blondes Studio is more than just a salon—it’s a glam hub! While one half of the building houses the salon, the other half features private suites available for rent, offering
independent beauty professionals the perfect space to thrive. The owner, Karina Pompa, is a huge supporter of women-owned businesses and building them up, and that’s certainly a mission we can stand behind!
Sisters and owners of Queen of Blondes Studio, along with Pompa Suites, credit their success to the unwavering support of their family and friends. Their journey is deeply personal, as they received a heartfelt blessing over their
new venture which included the memory of their late father. To honor him, they held their grand opening on his birthday, ensuring he was part of their milestone moment.
The celebration was nothing short of spectacular, featuring tacos, margaritas, cupcakes, and a live DJ—a true reflection of their vibrant and welcoming spirit.
Queen of Blondes Studio is poised to become La Porte’s go-to beauty destination, offering top-tier services and a supportive environment for beauty professionals. Stop by, meet the talented team, and experience the royal treatment for yourself!
KB’s Kitchen
402 W Main Street La Porte, Texas 77571
(832) 657-9852
contactus@kbskitchentxcom
La Porte’s beloved food truck, KB’s Kitchen, just marked its first anniversary, and what a celebration it was! Nestled in the heart of town, KB’s Kitchen has become a community favorite, serving up mouthwatering dishes with a side of warm hospitality.
To honor their milestone, KB’s Kitchen threw a huge anniversary party featuring special menu items and an unforgettable live performance by Big Jordan Band—the same talented group set to rock the stage at the upcoming Sylvan Beach Festival. It was a night filled with great food, fantastic music, and a whole lot of fun, bringing together loyal customers, new faces, and the amazing community that
has supported them from day one.
Known for its diverse and flavorful menu, KB’s Kitchen caters to all tastes, making it the perfect spot for a quick bite, a family meal, or a casual hangout with friends. Whether you’re a longtime fan or have yet to experience the deliciousness, now is the perfect time to stop by, enjoy the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and see why this food truck has captured the hearts (and appetites) of La Porte!
Here’s to many more years of great food, great company, and great memories at KB’s Kitchen!
NEWS FROM OURChamber Members
City of La Porte Unveils Main Street Master Plan – Share Your Input!
The City of La Porte is advancing its commitment to economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Master Plan
This plan is designed to breathe new life into the historic Main Street district by improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
One of the key features of the plan is a new pedestrian plaza on 2nd Street, designed as a welcoming space for relaxation and social gatherings. By enhancing sidewalks, adding decorative lighting, and introducing more green spaces, we are creating a more walkable and enjoyable downtown. These enhancements are expected to increase foot traffic, benefiting local businesses through higher retail sales, restaurant visits, and overall economic activity.
The City has worked closely with business owners and community organizations to develop this plan, and public participation remains a priority as the planning process continues. Do you have ideas for improving Main Street? Are there features you would love to see included? Now is the time to share your feedback to help shape the future of Main Street and ensure it reflects the needs and interests of the community.
For more information or to share your thoughts, contact Economic Development Manager
Haley Bowers at (281) 470-5016 or BowersH@LaPorteTX.gov.
Port Houston Surpasses $1B in Awards to Small, Minority and WomenOwned Businesses
Port Houston is proud to announce a significant milestone in its commitment to equity and economic opportunity: More than $1.1 billion has been awarded in contracts with Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (S/MWBEs).
This achievement reflects the collective impact of Port Houston’s Small Business Development Program, established in 2002, and the Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Program, launched in July 2021.
“This monumental milestone represents more than just dollars awarded—it’s a testament to Port Houston’s dedication to supporting jobs and creating opportunities for small and diverse businesses,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO at Port Houston. “These programs are designed to build capacity, foster inclusivity, and empower businesses to succeed and grow.”
Port Houston’s Business Equity Program has evolved through years of strategic planning and collaborative efforts across the organization. This initiative provides resources, mentorship, and access to procurement opportunities, helping businesses thrive. By fueling collaboration and
Mitsubishi Chemical Soarnol Division is Proud to Celebrate 30 Years of Operation at our La Porte Site
Over the past 30 years, Mitsubishi Chemical Soarnol Division has been committed to producing high-quality Soarnol, a resin used in the packaging of a variety of products found in your local grocery store. Thanks to this commitment, products stay fresher longer, leading to less food waste, with no impact to recyclability of the package.
Mitsubishi Chemical has also been an industrial leader in the La Porte community, with roles in the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce, La Porte Education Foundation, and the La Porte Rotary Club. We at Mitsubishi Chemical are committed to providing lasting positive impacts in our community through our chemistry and our sponsorship. We celebrate this milestone with these commitments in mind.
engagement to build economic wealth in our communities, the Port continues to bring lasting benefits to the Houston region and beyond.
“Our commitment to expanding opportunities for S/ MWBEs remains steadfast,” said Carlecia Wright, Port Houston’s Chief Business Equity Officer. “In 2024 alone, we awarded $181.1 million to S/MWBEs, building on more than two decades of commitment to economic opportunity. We are proud to continue driving equitable outcomes and ensuring that Port Houston remains a vital economic engine for businesses of all sizes and backgrounds.”
Valued LPISD Volunteers Recognized During January
January is School Board Recognition Month and National Mentoring Month---a perfect opportunity to thank these two groups of volunteers for their service to La Porte ISD!
La Porte ISD joins other districts across the state in celebrating the men and women who volunteer their time as members of the Board of Trustees. “Leadership for Tomorrow’s Texas” is the theme for 2025, demonstrating how local trustees continue to lead the way for Texas public schools. While we appreciate the efforts of our elected school board officials throughout the year, January is set aside as a special time for communities to celebrate their
contributions and thank them for caring so much about the future of every child enrolled in La Porte ISD.
National Mentoring Month provides us with the chance to recognize the many community partners who serve as mentors through the HELPS (Help Empower La Porte Students) mentoring program. More than 50 individuals devote 30 minutes each week to meeting with their mentees, building positive adult-child relationships through informal activities such as board games, arts and crafts, sports and more. The program began in 2022 as a project of the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce and La Porte ISD, starting at the district’s elementary schools; it has since expanded to the James H. Baker Sixth Grade Campus, Lomax Junior High, La Porte Junior High and La Porte High School. We are so grateful to our mentors for their generous donation of time and their devout commitment to our students.
As you’ll see in this issue of Community Connections, many other individuals, businesses and organizations help to make a positive impact on La Porte ISD students as well. Thank you to ALL of our community volunteers!
In photo: Michael Barry of Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union is among the more than
50 mentors who participate in the HELPS mentoring program.
Sylvan Shores Wins Customer Experience Award
Sylvan Shores Health and Wellness Center has been recognized with a Customer Experience Award by Activated Insights (formerly Pinnacle Quality Insight).
The award was in recognition of the skilled nursing facility’s achievement of best-in-class customer satisfaction standards in cleanliness.
Activated Insights, the leading provider of training, recruitment, retention, experience management and recognition tools to improve and grow long-term and post-acute care organizations.
VALENTINE’S DAY
A m u s e
A p p e t i z e r
( C h o i c e o f )
B a k e d F o c a c c i a
P r e s t i g e L o v e S h o t *
G u l f C o a s t O y s t e r , B a y o u B l o o d y M a r y M i x
T r i p l e C r è m e B r i e , T e x a s H o t H o n e y , P e p p e r e d D a t e C h u t n e y , S p i c e
C a s h e w s
S t e a m e d M u s s e l s
P i m e n t o n C r e a m , T e x a n J a l a p e ñ o S a u s a g e , C i p o l l i n i , S m o k e d T o m a t o
A s h c r a f t B r e a d
G r i l l e d R o m a i n e
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R o s e m a r y C r u m b l e , W h i t e A n c h o v y D r e s s i n g , R e g g i a n o E n t r e e
( C h o i c e o f )
F i l e t O s c a r *
The Customer Experience Award recognizes agencies that consistently rank within the top 15% of care providers nationwide, based on a variety of metrics including employee feedback, client satisfaction, and overall care quality. By qualifying for this award, agencies solidify their place among the nation’s top-tier providers, demonstrating a commitment to high standards of care and continuous improvement.
We are honored to be among the top care providers in terms of customer experience and cleanliness. The team at Sylvan Shores Health and Wellness is excited to be recognized for their efforts and exemplary service to patients and their families.
City of La Porte to Begin Enforcement of New Food Truck Vendor Law
Beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, the City of La Porte will enforce a new law requiring all mobile food vendors—including food trucks, food carts, concession carts, and concession trailers—to obtain a permit before operating within city limits. This regulation ensures compliance with updated health and safety standards.
To allow vendors time to comply, city officials have provided a 10-day grace period following the law’s effective date of February 1, 2025. Any vendor operating without a valid permit after this period may face shutdown by Code Enforcement.
The ordinance, approved by the La Porte City Council and Mayor Rick Helton on December 9, 2024, was introduced to regulate mobile food vendors and ensure safe and legal operations. It establishes clear guidelines for food safety, proper
waste disposal, and business practices, reducing risks associated with unregulated vendors.
How to Apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit
The City of La Porte has created a guide and information packet to help vendors navigate the new regulations. Food truck operators can apply for a permit through the City’s online permitting portal:
La Porte Permitting Portal View Information Packet
Operating with an expired permit may result in enforcement actions, including fines or shutdowns.
Stay Compliant and Avoid Penalties
Failure to obtain the required permit may result in fines of up to $2,000 per violation and a potential shutdown of operations. Vendors must submit all required documents and receive approval before conducting business. Vendors with existing permits must renew them every 90 days.
For Assistance
The City of La Porte’s Permits and Inspections Division is available to
assist vendors with any questions regarding the application process. Business owners can contact the department at (281) 470-5073 or email Permits@laportetx.gov.
City of La Porte
Moves
Forward with Sylvan Beach Pier Reconstruction
The City of La Porte is taking steps to restore the Sylvan Beach Park Pier, which sustained significant damage during Hurricane Beryl on July 8, 2024. The La Porte City Council approved a contract with Cobb Fendley and Associates for professional engineering services to design the pier’s rehabilitation during their meeting on Monday, January 27, 2025. The $106,838 contract covers structural analysis, geotechnical studies, ADA compliance, and permitting.
A joint review by the City of La Porte and Harris County Precinct 2 determined that while the pier’s substructure can be partially salvaged, major repairs are required. The
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Oxychem Makes Donation To Earlyact Clubs In La Porte ISD
1,100-foot pier needs a full replacement of its wood deck, a complete reconstruction of the T-head, and repairs or replacements for its railings.
To enhance durability against future storms, the new pier will feature ThruFlow decking or a similar material, which allows water to pass through and reduces storm damage.
The City will fund the design phase through an escrow account established for pier maintenance, while additional funding sources for reconstruction are still being identified. The estimated reconstruction cost is $1.56 million, which exceeds currently available funds. During the design phase, the City and Harris County will continue working together to finalize reconstruction funding.
Sylvan Beach Park is a cherished community destination on Galveston Bay, offering a playground, boat ramp, pavilion, and fishing pier. La Porte’s Mayor Rick Helton and City Council members are committed to reopening the pier as soon as possible, ensuring residents and visitors can once again enjoy this vital waterfront amenity.
Scott Halbrooks, second from right, site manager at OxyChem La Porte VCM, presents a $1,300 donation to the Rotary Club of La Porte to help support EarlyAct Clubs at several La Porte ISD schools. EarlyAct Clubs are community service organizations sponsored by Rotary at Jennie Reid Elementary, La Porte Elementary, James H. Baker Sixth Grade Campus and Lomax Junior High; clubs are starting at Heritage Elementary and Bayshore Elementary this spring. Thanking him for the company’s generous donation are, from left, Rotarians Jayo Washington, Brenda Thompson, Derick Meadows and Frank Nance.
Vaughn Realty Treats Early Childhood Center Staff To Lunch
Representatives from Vaughn Realty & Company hosted lunch for the La Porte ISD Early Childhood Center staff prior to the holidays. From left are Kellie Rice, director; Sandra Bristow and Ayla Ruffin, ECC staff members; Aleina Thacker and Jenny Vaughn with Vaughn Realty & Company; and Sandra Morin, Christy Gregory, Laura Trevino, Crystal Elko and Kara Mills, ECC staff members. The company also provided lunch for the staff at the La Porte ISD Academy of Viola DeWalt High School as well as pizza for second graders at La Porte Elementary, where they also serve as grade-level Partner.
New Members
The following businesses have realized the importance of economic growth and development for the La Porte-Bayshore area and have pledged their support to this cause by investing in their Chamber of Commerce. Please support your community by calling on these businesses when you are in need of products and services.
CAMP GLADIATOR WITH MARY
Mary Apodaca
La Porte, TX 77571
713-203-4608
www.campgladiator.com/trainer/maryapodaca
Renewals
Around La Porte Community Newspaper
Bay Area Observer
Bay Area Republican Women
Bayou City Industrial Contractors, LTD
Boss LTR
Braskem Americas
CenterPoint Energy
Clayton Funeral Home of La Porte
Clean-Tex Services, LLC
The Gates on Main Street
Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union
Gulf States Materials, Inc.
Bay Area Habitat for Humanity - Houston
Hammack & Co. CPAs LLC
Industrial Thermal Services, LLC
Kuraray America - Eval
La Porte Police Officers’ Association
La Porte Rail & Terminal
Lhoist North America
LyondellBasell Industries La Porte Complex
Mark McVey, Loan Originator
Momentum Rental and Sales
Nestle Waters North America
Pfeiffer & Son, Ltd.
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
Chamber Volunteer Paula Rizzuto
SmokeAholics
SSA Gulf, Inc.
Swift Mart
Texcellent Heating & Cooling LLC
Topsoe, Inc.
United States House of Representatives
Whimsy Home & Decor
Thank you for your continued support!
MEMBERSHIP & COMMUNITY EVENTS
