September Webster Way

SEPTEMBER 2024

IGNITING KNOWLEDGE Webster Fire Department Sparks Fire Safety Awareness for Kids

MEET WPFA’S PRESIDENT PG. 2

GREAT WOLF LODGE OPENING PG. 4

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH PG.5

ANSWERING THE CALL:

JACOB GALVAN’S JOURNEY IN FIRE AND SERVICE Firefighter/Paramedic Jacob Galvan has been proudly serving the City of Webster since January 2021. As his four-year anniversary approaches, Jacob reflects on the journey that led him to this vital role.

Jacob’s path to becoming a firefighter is deeply rooted in his faith and desire to help others. Coming from a family with a diverse background in healthcare, law enforcement, and the military, Jacob felt a calling to make a difference but took time to determine the right path. While at the fire academy, he realized firefighting was his true calling.

“It became an unquenchable thirst that I cannot get enough of,” says Jacob.

Jacob proudly carries the mantle of being the first-generation firefighter in his family, a legacy that inspired his younger brother to join the profession with the Baytown Fire Department.

As a firefighter, Jacob’s day is filled with numerous responsibilities beyond responding to emergency calls. He emphasizes the importance of staying mentally and physically prepared at all times. The life of a firefighter involves rigorous daily training, maintaining physical fitness, and ensuring the station and equipment are in top condition.

Although unseen by the public, these tasks are essential for the safety and effectiveness of the team.

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Jacob notes that one of the biggest challenges in his role is time management. With the demands of training, station duties, and emergency calls, prioritizing tasks is crucial. Despite the busy schedule, Jacob remains focused on the primary objective: serving the community and living up to the motto of being “For THEM.” Jacob’s motivation to stay positive and driven in such a demanding profession comes from the severe commitment he and his colleagues have made to the community. This dedication fuels their continuous efforts to improve through training, education, and maintaining peak physical and mental condition.

“The community depends on our help, and it is truly an honor for us to be there for them,” says Jacob, “Doing this job is a

privilege. We worked hard to achieve it.”

Jacob believes a successful firefighter must possess a strong work ethic, physical endurance, and mental resilience. The ability to stay focused and make critical decisions under pressure is essential, as any lapse in concentration can have serious consequences. The importance of mental health, especially in the high-stress world of first responders, cannot be overstated.

In addition to his firefighting duties, Jacob serves as the president of the Webster Professional Firefighters Association (WPFA). Despite this role’s additional responsibilities, Jacob finds fulfillment in contributing to the welfare of his fellow firefighters and the community.

The WPFA plays a significant role in fostering unity among its members and providing support during personal and family emergencies. The association also extends its outreach to the community, offering assistance and donations to those in need.

“I think there is an inherent desire to provide for those in need,” says Jacob, “The association allows us to go the extra mile for people without the need for an emergency.”

For Jacob, the most rewarding aspect is the gratitude expressed by those the association helps. Whether it’s a child’s smile upon receiving a gift, a mother’s relief with a gift card, or a colleague’s appreciation for support during a family crisis, these moments of connection and impact drive Jacob’s continued commitment.

“There’s no better feeling in the world, and that keeps me going,” says Jacob.

As the City grows, Jacob envisions the Webster Fire Department and WPFA growing alongside it. He sees opportunities for increased collaboration with the Webster Police Officer’s Association, which could amplify their collective impact on the community.

Jacob is eager to explore these possibilities and continue strengthening the bond between these two vital organizations.

FIRED UP FOR SAFETY The Webster Fire Department recently opened its doors to local daycare centers, offering an engaging and educational experience designed to teach young children about the importance of fire safety. This initiative aimed to empower kids with knowledge on how to prevent fires and what actions to take in the event of one.

FIRE SAFETY PRESENTATION The day began with a warm welcome from the fire station administrators, who gathered the children for an informative presentation on fire safety. The presentation covered essential safety tips, such as identifying potential fire hazards and having a family escape plan. To reinforce the lessons, the fire department showed engaging videos that illustrated fire safety concepts in a way that was easy for the young audience to understand.

HANDS-ON FIREHOUSE TOUR After the presentation, the children were treated to an exciting firehouse tour. Webster firefighters guided the kids around the station, showcasing the fire trucks and various equipment they use daily. The children had the opportunity to climb aboard the fire trucks as they explored the different tools and gadgets used by firefighters during emergencies. The tour also included visiting the firefighters’ living quarters, where the kids learned about life at the station during 48-hour shifts, offering a glimpse into the dedication and hard work of the City’s firefighters.

A MEMORABLE LEARNING EXPERIENCE The event was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on the children who attended. By engaging with the community’s youngest members, the Webster Fire Department fosters a culture of safety and awareness that we can all be proud of, which will benefit the entire community. This handson approach to fire safety education ensures that these critical lessons will stay with the children as they grow, helping to create a safer environment for everyone in Webster.

LIVE FIRE DEMONSTRATION As the highlight of the day, firefighter Alex Waltenbaugh conducted a live fire demonstration. The children watched in awe as Alex swiftly and efficiently extinguished a small fire, showcasing the skills required in real-life emergencies.

This demonstration captivated the young audience and reinforced the fire safety lessons they learned earlier.

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HOWLING GOOD TIMES AWAIT! GREAT WOLF LODGE OPENS WITH A SPLASH On August 7, Great Wolf Lodge celebrated the grand opening of its new resort in Webster, marking the major milestone with a celebration inside its expansive indoor water park. The 21st resort in North America features 532 family­friendly suites, an expansive 92,000-square-foot indoor water park, a 61,000-squarefoot adventure park, and a collection of eateries and retail offerings under one roof. The new resort in Webster boasts several firsts for the Great Wolf Lodge brand, including an exhilarating new ropes course featuring a zipline experience, a new virtual reality attraction, and a new family water-coaster raft slide dubbed the Texas Twirler.

Mayor Donna Jasso and Great Wolf Resorts CEO John Murphy take in the excitement of the 61,000-square-foot Great Wolf Adventure Park, which boasts miniature golf, the interactive MagiQuest adventure game, virtual reality experiences, and an exhilarating ropes course with a zipline and adventure trail through a dynamic tree fort.

and Mayor Donna City Manager Mike Ahrens inside the impressive Jasso pose with Wiley Wolf waterpark, 92,000-square-foot indoor ing waterslides, showcasing its thirteen thrill s Twirler. including the exclusive Texa

Webster City Council Members Chris Vaughan, Martin Graves, Beverly Gaines, Mayor Donna Jasso, Mayor Pro Tem Edward Lapeyre, and Council Member Jennifer Heidt join Great Wolf Lodge’s beloved mascot, Wiley Wolf, to celebrate the grand opening on Wednesday, August 7. The festivities are set against the vibrant backdrop of Otter Cave Waterworks.

Webster City Council Members Chris Vaughan, Martin Graves, Mayor Donna Jasso, Mayor Pro Tem Edward Lapeyre, and Council Member Jennifer Heidt eagerly welcome Great Wolf Lodge and its wolf packs to Webster.

This major tourism magnet is poised to become a premier destination for families, enhancing Webster’s economic landscape.

Great Wolf Lodge has employed 675 full-time and part-time staff in anticipation of welcoming 800,000 annual visitors. The resort will attract guests to Flyway and surrounding attractions, restaurants, entertainment venues, and hotels, fueling regional growth.

With a proven track record of over 25 years and more than 20 successful lodges, Great Wolf Lodge is a trusted leader in the family travel industry. The expert executive team behind the new Webster resort has been a key partner throughout the project, ensuring its success and quality.

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Singer, songwriter, actress, and proud Houstonian Kelly Rowland joins Wiley Wolf and Great Wolf Resorts CEO John Murphy at the grand opening celebration. She and Murphy mark the occasion with a generous donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Houston.

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ESSENTIAL ITEMS

YOU NEED FOR YOUR FAMILY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS KIT NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH As we observe National Preparedness Month, it’s crucial to ensure that you and your family are ready for any unexpected emergencies. One of the most critical steps in preparedness is having a well-stocked emergency kit that will sustain you and your loved ones for at least three days, whether you’re sheltering in place or evacuating.

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FOOD

Non-perishable food items like canned goods, energy bars, and dried foods are vital to sustain energy levels when fresh food is unavailable. A three-day supply per person is advised.

WATER

Water is essential for hydration and basic hygiene. Clean water may be scarce in emergencies, so it’s recommended to have at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.

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MEDICATIONS

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CLOTHES

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Essential medications should be included to manage any ongoing health conditions.

This ensures that necessary treatment continues uninterrupted, even in a crisis.

A change of clothes, including sturdy shoes and weatherappropriate attire, is essential for comfort and protection from the elements. Extra layers can be critical if you’re forced to evacuate.

CAN OPENER

A manual can opener is necessary to access canned food if the electricity is out. It’s a simple but often overlooked tool in emergency kits.

PERSONAL CARE ITEMS

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FIRST AID

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PORTABLE CHARGER

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FLASHLIGHT

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IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

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Essential hygiene items like toothbrushes, soap, and sanitary products help maintain cleanliness and personal comfort in emergencies.

A well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for treating minor injuries and preventing infections, which can be lifesaving when medical help is not immediately available.

A portable power bank can keep your phone charged in case you need to communicate with others or access critical information.

A reliable flashlight with extra batteries is essential for navigating in the dark, especially during power outages. It helps you move safely and avoid hazards.

Copies of essential documents like IDs, insurance papers, and medical records should be stored in a waterproof container. These documents can be vital for identity verification and accessing services.

T H E K I D S C O R N E R 6 Webster Way | September

AUTUMN CODE BREAKER

Can you decode these autumn words?

Use the key below to break the code.

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CITY CONTACTS

CITY COUNCIL RECAP

City Hall Main Number 281.332.1826

July Recap • • • • • • • • • •

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City Manager 281.332.1826

City Council adopted an Ordinance amending Chapter 22, Article III, Itinerant Vendors, to ensure proper legal protections for nonprofit entities.

City Council adopted an Ordinance amending Chapter 62 of the Code of Ordinances, prohibiting overnight parking at the City of Webster parks.

City Council adopted an Ordinance regarding the rezoning request of an approximately 13.04 acre tract northeast of Fairway Drive and Rice Creek Lane.

City Council adopted an Ordinance regarding the proposed planned development guidelines for Edgewater Section 19: Planned Area 12.

City Council approved a Resolution denying CenterPoint Energy’s rate increases.

City Council reappointed members to the City of Webster Boards and Commissions.

City Council approved the medical and dental insurance renewal for fiscal year 2024-2025.

City Council approved a Resolution supporting the candidacy of Councilmember Beverly Gaines as a candidate for TML President-Elect.

City Council approved a Webster Economic Development Corporation expenditure for Flyway’s engineering, design, survey, and construction support services.

City Council approved a Webster Economic Development Corporation expenditure for a Utility Construction Services Agreement with CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC, for expanded underground facilities in Flyway.

City Council approved extending the emergency declaration in response to Hurricane Beryl.

City Secretary 281.316.4144 Community Development 281.316.4129 Economic Development 281.316.4116 Finance 281.316.4102 Municipal Court 281.316.6702 Recreation 281.316.4137 Public Works 281.316.3700 Fire (Non-emergency) 281.332.2711

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS ARE HELD ON THE FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE NEXT CITY COUNCIL MEETING, VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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SOCIAL MEDIA

Police (Non-emergency) 281.332.2426 City of Webster, Texas

@WebsterTexas

@WebsterTexas_

Webster Way | September 7

THE CITY OF WEBSTER

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 119

101 Pennsylvania Ave. Webster, TX 77598

www.cityofwebster.com 281.332.1826

Webster, TX

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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LABOR DAY City Offices closed

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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WEBSTER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MEETING* 6 P.M. at City Hall

WEBSTER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MEETING* 6 P.M. at City Hall

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SENIOR GAME NIGHT 6 P.M. at 311 Pennsylvania Ave.

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SENIOR GAME NIGHT 6 P.M. at 311 Pennsylvania Ave.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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SENIOR GAME NIGHT 6 P.M. at 311 Pennsylvania Ave.

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SENIOR GAME NIGHT 6 P.M. at 311 Pennsylvania Ave.

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HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL 6 P.M. at Texas Avenue Park 17100 Texas Ave., in Webster

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*Special meetings may be added, and meetings may be canceled if there are no agenda items. Check the City website at cityofwebster.com for meeting information.

WEBSTER CITY COUNCIL

Jennifer Heidt

Council Position 1 jheidt@cityofwebster.com

Sam Davis

Council Position 2 sdavis@cityofwebster.com

Chris Vaughan

Council Position 3 cvaughan@cityofwebster.com

Donna Jasso

Mayor mayorjasso@cityofwebster.com

Beverly Gaines

Council Position 4 bgaines@cityofwebster.com

Edward Lapeyre

Council Position 5 elapeyre@cityofwebster.com

Martin Graves

Council Position 6 mgraves@cityofwebster.com