Dock Line Jan-Feb 06.indd

Transcription

From the Managing Editor
The Magazine About Life on the Water’s Edge
table of
CONTENTS
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2006
Well, the holidays are over and it’s
back to the salt mine for me. A new year
has started and I was told that I needed
to increase my efforts for the magazine,
yeah right… If everyone knew the truth
they would be hauling off my owners for cruelty to animals. They expect
me to work 7 days a week and most of
the time when I go to my water bowl
- it’s empty! Oh well, enough about my
problems.
I would like to thank all the advertisers and the contributors for making
2005 a great year. I know that without
them we could not bring you The Dock
Line Magazine. I also know that if it
wasn’t for you, the readers, telling them
you saw them in The Dock Line they
wouldn’t continue to support us, so a
big “THANK YOU” to you all!!!
We have lots of good stuff in this
issue and we hope everyone enjoys
reading it, and by the way, if any of you
have an idea for a story just email me
at [email protected]. We would
love to hear from you.
I guess that’s all from me for now,
so you guys keep reading and don’t forget where you saw it, in The Dock Line.
7
Entrepreneurs Hold Stake in Montgomery’s Future
8
Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District:
New Prices at the Pump - Regular, Premium
and - WATER!!!!
1O Important Tax Changes
11
14
Spring Selling Season
12 Ski the Summit
13 The Doc’s Line
7
14 South Texas Fishing.net:
Texas Winter Fun in the Sun
16 Lone Star Convention Center:
Upcoming Public Events
17
Kia Spectra Ranks Second among Compact Cars
18 Dear Patti
19 Expense Account Versus a Raise
20 Texas Parks & Wildlife: Lake Conroe Yields Second
28
8
ShareLunker of the 2005-2006 Season
24 Lake Conroe Fishing Report
25 Palm Tree News
26 San Jacinto River Authority:
A Lake Conroe Update
28 Manzanillo: Mexico’s Largest Sea Port
29 The Bug Guy Chronicles
20
GeorgeT.
Chozenwun
30 National Forest & Grasslands: Political Signs
Illegal on National Forests and Grasslands
in Texas
31 In & Around
32 National Forest & Grasslands: 2006 Day-Use
Passes Now Available
33 Libations for the Water’s Edge
For advertising information
call 936-890-7234 and one
of our representives will be
glad to assist you.
ON THE
COVER:
Repair of the
Dam photo
taken by
Reed Eichelberger
34 Fish News
35 Squeezing Every Last Dollar from Your Home Sale
36 Creatures from the Deep
37 Catch ‘Em, Clean ‘Em & Eat ‘Em
38 Financial Focus: Time to Choose a Small-Business
Retirement Plan?
The Dock Line Magazine February/March 2006 5
The Magazine About Life on the
Waters Edge
Verle “Ozzy” Osborne
EDITOR
Susan Osborne
VP - SALES
George T. Chozenwun
MANAGING EDITOR
Kelly L. O’Quinn
ART DIRECTOR
CONTRIBUTORS:
Cary Wortham
Melissa Carnine
Rosie Thomas
William L. Perry
Joey L. Romero, D.V.M.
John Doughty
Ernest S. Murray
Reed Eichelberger
Patti Shannon
Friendly Travel
Bill Agee
Kathy Jones
Christine Stutts
A.J. Sadberry
Butch Terpe
Darrell Taylor aka Catfish Killer
THE DOCK LINE MAGAZINE
is published by
The Dock Line Company
5441 Edgewater Ct., Willis, TX 77318
Telephone: 936-890-7234
Fax: 936-890-7244
E-mail: [email protected]
Subscriptions to THE DOCK LINE MAGAZINE
cost $12.50 per year. To subscribe, call the
offices of The Dock Line Company.
The Dock Line Magazine welcomes reader
correspondence. We reserve the right to edit
or reject any material submitted. The publisher
assumes no responsibility for the return of any
unsolicited material.
THE DOCK LINE MAGAZINE© 2005 by The
Dock Line Company, all rights reserved. All
editorial and advertising copy belongs solely
to THE DOCK LINE MAGAZINE. Reproduction in whole or part without express written
permission is strictly prohibited.
6
The Dock Line Magazine February/March 2006
Entrepreneurs Hold Stake
in Montgomery’s Future
By A. J. Sadberry
Montgomer y
boasts many interesting, historic sites
and businesses! One
of the more remarkable establishments
happens to be a multiple enterprise with
a rich history. Operated by a husband
and wife team, Kirk
and Emily Jones,
their businesses are
located in Old Town
Montgomery and
signify one stop shopping at its best.
It all began in College Station, Texas, when
Kirk Jones of Hereford, Texas (south west of Amarillo); and Emily Simonton of Montgomery, Texas
met at Texas A&M University. Both were animal
science majors and in fact, Kirk was working on
his Master’s Degree (1988) and was teaching a class
in which Emily was one of his students. In 1990,
Kirk and Emily were married and moved to where
Kirk was already employed in the meat packing
industry in Grand Island, Nebraska, then Greeley,
Colorado and finally Guymon, Oklahoma before
deciding that they would rather be in business for
themselves.
After 12 years in the meat packing industry,
their entrepreneurial spirits brought them back to
their native state, Texas. Fortunately for the City of
Montgomery, they chose to settle in Montgomery
(Emily’s hometown), in 2000. Emily’s family has
lived in this area since the 1700’s.
Pecan Hills Florist & Gifts
In short order, Emily acquired the business
her mother, Marilyn, had started from her interest
in collecting, preserving, and selling flowers and
other plants. Marilyn’s business, Pecan Hill Farms,
(originally located in the little yellow building next
to The Heritage House Restaurant) on Hwy 105
West, was transformed into a full service florist
and gift shop with 3 experienced full time floral
designers on staff. Emily and Kirk, now in their
5th year owning Pecan Hill Florist and Gifts, have
further expanded the business, which is currently
located at 309 Liberty (Hwy149 N).
The Bells of Montgomery –
Historical Wedding Chapel
In 2004, the Joneses acquired the Bells of
Montgomery Wedding Chapel from Glen and Shirley Schneider. The Schneiders originally purchased
the building (the historic Methodist Church built
in 1908) in 2002 and converted it into “The Bells
of Montgomery”(AKA The Bells). The beautiful
chapel and the elegant reception facility make for a
very unique wedding experience. These two businesses, The Bells and Pecan Hill have turned out to
be an incredible match, and The Bells has evolved
into much more than just a wedding chapel!
Texas Star
Retreat – (for
Scrapbooking Weekend
Retreats)
Today, a sprawling two-story, structure adjacent to the
chapel houses
(1) administrative offices
of the Texas
Star
Retreat
(a Scrapbooking weekend
retreat facility) as well as
The Bells, (2) a large kitchen and (3) a large meeting and banquet room on the lower level (which
can accommodate from 125-150 people). The upper level provides sleeping accommodations for
18 people (3 bedrooms with bunk beds), a dining
room, three bathrooms, and a spacious gathering
area. It functions as living quarters for Scrapbooking weekend retreats, which are available for Friday through Sunday bookings as well as for day
Scrapbooking during the week.
The Bells of Montgomery
Offers Many Services
A variety of services are offered through this
facility including: catered meals for special occasions on or off-site, full/partial meals to go, and
casseroles. In conjunction with Pecan Hills Floral
& Gifts, other services available include, tuxedo
rentals (featuring Ascot Formal wear), candelabra
and other prop rentals, limousine and DJ services,
invitations for weddings and special events, and of
course food.
Kirk and Emily’s businesses signify “one stop
shopping at its best.” According to Kirk, “We can
provide everything a bride needs except a wedding
dress, a ring and a groom.”
The food service aspect of The Bells offers
convenience for busy families. Casseroles, side
dishes, salads, desserts, and other entrees may be
ordered from frozen inventory or ordered fresh for
next day pick up. Delivery is also available. Examples of casseroles and entrees available include
chicken pepper pasta, beef enchilada casserole,
chicken, broccoli and rice casserole, chicken enchiladas, beef lasagna, King Ranch chicken, beef enchiladas, Chicken Alfredo, several different soups,
Bar-B-Q, chicken and dumplings, and much
more! Office parties and luncheons are The Bells’
specialty. Party trays including fruit, vegetable,
meats and cheeses, cookies, deviled eggs and more
are also available.
The Joneses are optimistic about the future
of Montgomery, and they are vested in meeting
Montgomery’s needs for today, as well as the fu-
ture. As the community continues to grow, the
Joneses hope that Montgomery will maintain it’s
quaint and historical ambiance. It is their desire
that their children, Grayson, Garrett and Emma,
now ages 6, 3 and 3 respectively will maintain the
tradition by growing with this great city and continue to be stake holders in the future growth of
Montgomery.
For further information on The Bells of
Montgomery, Pecan Hill Florist & Gifts, or Texas
Star Scrapbooking Retreat, call 936-597-7205 or email [email protected]. ◆
Story by Kathy Jones
Photos by Dave Clements
At some point over the past year, we watched
gasoline prices pass $2.00 a gallon, then $2.50, and
all the way to $3.00 in some places. Filling up the
old gas tank was, and is, painful. But most of us
have to do it, whether to go to work, shopping or
pick up the kids from school; life without gasoline
would be a painful experience for most of us. Say
what you want about why the prices went up, it really seems quite simple – people wanted the gasoline, but there is only so much of it to go around.
It’s that old “Supply and Demand” theory.
But what if you were faced with the same dilemma on a more fundamental resource that we
need – like WATER.
8
According to the officials from the Lone Star
Groundwater Conservation District, it’s high time
we started thinking about our water with even
more concern. While flushing our toilets and taking showers really isn’t in jeopardy, we do seem to
be using water at a rate faster than it can be replenished. We may not see the problem today, but it
seems likely that our children and grandchildren
will.
Living in a rapid growth area like Montgomery County certainly has its advantages – entertainment and shopping opportunities, services,
real estate investment values . . . the downside is
that as we economically develop the county we are
using water at a rate faster than Mother Nature can
supply it. Yes, the trend
is we are overusing the
existing supplies of water
we have in some areas”,
explains Kathy Jones,
General Manager of
Lone Star Groundwater
Conservation District.
“As the District has registered county water wells
and developed historic
usage data, we’ve found
that our local aquifer is
already operating very
close to its full sustainable capacity.”
“When the District was formed in 2001, it was
because local leaders saw a potential crisis looming
in the not-too-distant future,” explained Ms. Jones.
“What was needed was a platform to conduct the
proper planning and regulation to make sure that
we protect the groundwater resources we have so
that the county can continue to flourish in the future and our descendants can enjoy Montgomery
County the same way we do.” That is the primary
mission of the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District.
As the 5th fastest growing county in Texas,
Montgomery County currently relies totally on
groundwater for our supplies. The Gulf Coast
Aquifer, into which all our private and municipal
water wells are drilled, has a sustainable supply of
64,000 acre feet per year to share between all users.
[An acre-foot is 364,000 gallons]. By comparison,
current request for permanent pumpage is about
68,000 acre feet per year. By 2040, the demand for
water will be about 154,000 acre feet. By subtracting 154,000 acre feet from the available groundwater in Montgomery County we quickly realize
that within the next 35-year period, we’ll have a
groundwater shortage of approximately 90,000
acre feet per year.
“The Lone Star GCD Board realizes that we
are going to have to reduce the dependency on
groundwater and meet our water needs through
other means.” says Jones, “new strategies including
surface water supplies and water reuse is going to
be necessary parts of the overall water solution to
help the groundwater situation”.
Just like it will take more refining capacity
and pipelines to provide more gasoline, creating
these new sources of water supply will require new
treatment plants and pipelines. And that costs
money, lots of it. So we need to get used to the fact
that like gasoline, the cost of water is most likely
to rise. How much? Well, that depends somewhat
on all of us.
In fact, according to Ms. Jones, we’re all
spoiled by cheap water. The average cost of water
to a residential user in Montgomery County is less
than $40 per month for 8,000 gallons, or only 1/2
cent per gallon!!
“One of the easiest and less painful solutions
Some may ask, “So what happens if we allow the water
levels to continually decline?” Well, there are a number of
potential problems that could occur; all of which further
increases the cost of groundwater production:
1.
Water levels in the aquifer will drop dramatically, forcing
many wells to become inefficient and requiring major repairs
or, in some cases, drilling additional wells which aggravate
the problems further.
2.
Land could subside – dramatically in some areas –
causing cracked foundations, increased flooding and turning
some farms, parks and neighborhoods into swamp land.
3.
The quality of the water could degrade, requiring expensive
treatment in order to make it suitable for public consumption.
4.
Water will have to be purchased from other sources, so water
bills will begin to increase dramatically.
is to conserve the water supplies we do have to
make them last longer”, says Ms. Jones. “Doing so
will allow us to delay some of the costs a little longer, and in some cases allow the new facilities to be
built smaller”.
When the gas prices hit this summer, many
of us began to think “conservation”. We began to
reduce unnecessary trips, or to carpool, maybe
even to thinking about trading in the old guzzler
for something a little less thirsty. But that old “C”
word – conservation – has become more and more
constant in our minds. Maybe its time we thought
about it when we use our water. Did you know that
almost 50% of the water we consume is not even
used for essential purposes? That’s true, almost
half of this precious resource is used for washing
cars, watering lawns, or just leaking through open
faucets.
Water Conservation is common sense. But
when you put it in terms that it may actually save
money, then maybe we should be a little more ag-
gressive about taking the subject seriously. When
the gas prices went up, I polished off my bicycle.
Not only did I save money, but now I am a little
healthier for it. Saving water for our children will
do the same thing. So the next time you think of
watering your lawn, maybe do it at night so the
water doesn’t evaporate, or maybe cut the watering
time in half. But let’s start thinking about conserving our resource.
While we’re doing that, the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District, San Jacinto River Authority and Texas Water Development Board are
developing a sound plan to get us the rest of the
way. But we can all do our part. Water is going
to get more expensive, just like gasoline has, but
this time around, you CAN do something to ease
your pain.
CONSERVE!!! ◆
my Buddy
Ted
Taxpert Bookkeeping and Accounting would like
to bring the following important tax changes to
your attention:
1. Extensions, this year there is only one extension
request and it is good for six months, until October 15, 2006. The request must be postmarked by
April 15, 2006. Remember that an extension is
only good for the time to file and does not extend
the time to pay, if you are going to owe you need
to submit a payment with the extension request or
you’ll have penalty and interest charges on the underpayment.
2. The business mileage deduction is a two part
calculation this year and your tax advisor will need
to know mileage January 1, 2005 thru August 30
(40.5 cents per mile) and September 1 thru December 31, 2005 (48.5 cents per mile).
3. Medical mileage was also increased by seven
cents effective September 1, 2005 and will require
you break it down in the same way as above; the
rate is 15 cents and then 22 cents per mile after
September 1, 2005.
4. It’s not too late to make a retirement contribution. Contributions to retirement accounts can be
made until April 15, 2006 and still count as a 2005
contribution. Special rules apply, so please consult
your tax or financial advisor to determine your
specific situation.
Each year dozens of laws change within the
tax regulations. Make sure that you are getting
every tax break you are entitled to by calling on
the experts at TAXPERT Bookkeeping and Accounting. The accountants at TAXPERT spent
over 400 hours studying the changes in tax rules
during 2005 and will continue to do the research
required to minimize your tax bill each and every
year. Call and set your appointment today (936)
539-5995, don’t let the IRS shake you down, call
an expert. ◆
end
my fri
weezie
10
Spring Selling Season
by Christine Stutts
Increase your homes worth. When you prepare your home for sale, remember the importance of first impressions.
It is estimated that more than half of all houses are sold before buyers even get out of their cars. So stand across the
street from your house and review its curb appeal.
Here are some easy things to do to make your home
more appealing to buyers.
From the outside:
Sweep front walkway.
Trim the shrubs.
Clean windows & window coverings
throughout.
Make sure roof/gutters are in good
condition.
Mow lawn more frequently & plant flowers.
Keep pet areas clean.
From the inside:
Kitchen and bathroom should shine.
Quick once-over with the vacuum; carpets
should be clean.
Place fresh flowers in the main rooms.
Put dishes away, unless setting a formal
display for decoration.
Make beds and put all clothes away.
Open drapes and turn on lights for a
brighter feel.
Straighten closets.
Put toys away.
Turn off television.
Keep pets out of the way and pet areas
clean and odor-free.
Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medication
and other valuables.
Enhance the spaciousness of each room.
Pack away collectibles to allow buyers to
envision their own furnishings in the home.
Also, remember these important reminders.
Potential buyers usually feel more comfortable if the owners are not present. If people
unaccompanied by an agent request to see
your property, please refer them to your real
estate professional for an appointment.
Christine Stutts
Prudential Gary Greene
14602 FM 1097 West
Willis, TX 77318
936-520-4056
It is snowing and it is not too late to book
your ski vacations! There is nothing more breathtaking than the view from the top of a ski slope
on a beautiful winter day. The area in Colorado
that is called The Summit includes Breckenridge,
Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Copper Mountain.
This is a great area to take in all types of activities,
restaurants and shops. Breckenridge is a great ski
destination with lots of slopes for beginners and
expert skiers. The town of Breckenridge is set up
like a little Victorian town with lots of restaurants,
shops and plenty of activities. You can go ice skating, take a sleigh ride, snow mobiling not to mention finding plenty of slopes. Nearby you have
Keystone which is just a shuttle ride away which
also has some great slopes. At Keystone you can go
night skiing which is not offered in Breckenridge.
The lift tickets you buy for Breckenridge are interchangeable to Keystone which really gives you a lot
of variety. Keystone also has a lot of the fun winter
activities but does not have as much night life as
Breckenridge. All these ski areas in The Summit
compliment each other to give you a variety that
you can not get at most ski destinations.
You can find quite a variety of accommodations in all of these areas from hotel rooms to pri-
12
vate home rentals. There are many ski-in/ski-out
properties in these ski destinations. Condominiums with full kitchens, fireplaces and full amenities are also available.
Ski rentals are available at several locations so
there is usually no problem booking your rentals
but I highly recommend pre booking your rentals
during peak travel times, for example Spring Break
and Christmas. Ski lessons are available at all the
ski areas and are highly recommended. You have
a choice of a half day or whole day lesson and they
also have a great children’s program. The children’s
program is all day and they teach them safely and
have them going up the gondola in no time. This
also gives the parents a chance to do some skiing
while the kids are having a good time.
So get busy and get your ski vacation booked
for Spring Break before it is too late. There are several flights to Denver which is the main airport for
The Summit destinations. Car rentals are usually
cheaper than purchasing the transfers but both are
available. If you have any questions or would like
to have some help booking your ski vacations call
Anita with Friendly Travel at 1-800-710-8646 or
send me an email at [email protected]. ◆
Happy New Year and welcome back once
again for the 3rd and final article about Zoonotic
disease. The first article included a brief overview
of what zoonosis is and the potential diseases that
we are susceptible to. The second article was a
more in depth coverage of specific diseases and
ways they can be prevented. This article is a continuation of the second article and intended to
cover other potential gastrointestinal diseases and
skin diseases that can be acquired from pets.
Although not necessarily a gastrointestinal
disease, I would like to begin with Toxoplasmosis.
Toxoplasmosis is a disease in which most infected
people never show any signs or symptoms because their immune systems are able to fight it off.
However those that have weak immune systems or
women who are pregnant should do their best to
avoid it. Toxoplasmosis can be transmitted to the
unborn child and cause serious health problems.
The disease comes from eating undercooked
meat from food producing animals that have consumed feed products contaminated by cat feces.
It can also transmitted directly from cats feces.
The symptoms of the disease are variable and can
become serious. The disease is easily avoidable
through consuming well cooked meats and avoidance of cat litter and dirt or soil that cats have
come in to contact with. Due to the consequences
of this disease while being pregnant, many planning or expecting mothers often ask if they should
get rid of their cat(s). The answer is NO. Simply
have someone else clean the litter box and always
feed your cat(s) a fully cooked or manufactured
diet. Always wash your hands after handling your
cat(s). Most inside cats, if kept only inside, do not
carry the disease anyway. The next several diseases, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Cryptospridium
and Giardia will be discussed simultaneously as they both cause similar
symptoms and are acquired in the
same manner. The most common
symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea.
Infection from bacteria is through
consumption of food products that
are contaminated with the bacteria. However, the importance here is
how we can get these from our pets.
Once again, this is not a very common problem as they are transmitted through ingestion of the bacteria from contact with the pet’s feces. However, small children
would be at a greater risk because they tend to put
things into their mouths. Always keep a close eye
on infants/toddlers in the yard and do your best to
keep their hands clean.
Ancylostoma, otherwise known as the hookworm, can cause many problems. The hookworm
is one of the most common intestinal parasites of
young dogs although it can be found in any age
dog or cat. It is typically transmitted in the environment from pet to pet through ingestion of the
egg or larva. The parasite egg enters the intestinal
tract and matures to an adult worm. It attaches
to the inner lining of the intestines where it consumes blood from the host and destroys the lining
of the intestines. As this blood loss and destruction occur, weakness, lethargy, weight loss and/or
diarrhea will typically be seen. While the pet is
infected, they are shedding this parasite into the
environment through their feces. Obviously the
higher the parasite burden, the greater the contamination will be. We can become infected with
this parasite through ingestion and/or from contact with the feces or soil in which the feces has
contacted. The eggs can lie dormant in the soil for
an extended period of time and can also mature
to the larval stage. Once in the larval stage they
can enter our body through the skin. After it has
entered the skin, it migrates through the tissue and
causes destruction of the tissue and organs surrounding it. While this is not commonly seen, it
is possible and it is easily avoided. The first step
is prevention with a monthly parasite preventive.
Most heartworm preventives have this parasiticide
in them. The next step is to have your pet tested
for intestinal parasites once or twice yearly. Last
but certainly not least, keep the environment in
which the pet lives clean and free of feces.
Another common intestinal parasite of dogs
and cats is the tapeworm. There are many species
of tapeworm. The tapeworm is typically the result
of ingestion of an infected flea. That’s right a flea.
Not every flea is a carrier but it only takes one flea.
Therefore, a large flea population will increase the
chance of ingesting a tapeworm egg. People can get
the tapeworm in much the same way but typically
it is through ingestion of a tapeworm egg packet or
simply from inadvertent ingestion of an egg from
contact with an infected pet. This particular parasite is generally not seen on routine fecal exams
but rather by seeing the egg packet. The egg packet
is white, somewhat flat and less than ¼ inch long.
They sometime resemble a piece of rice especially
when they dry out. They can be seen in the feces,
in the bedding and in the hair around the anus.
Due to the fact they are acquired from fleas it is
important to control the flea population as well as
treat the pet for the infection. Most dewormers do
not work against all species of tapeworm; therefore
it is important to talk to your veterinarian about
the proper medication to clear the infection. The
symptoms of tapeworm infection are very similar
for humans and pets. While not typically a serious health threat, the parasite can cause vomiting,
diarrhea and/or weight loss.
The most common skin zoonoses are Sarcoptes (Sarcoptic mange), Trichophyton and Microsporum (ring worm). Sarcoptes is a mite that is
often found in the environment on plants and animals. If your pet comes in contact with the mite
he/she will typically become infected. The mite
will bury itself in the superficial layer of skin and
will gradually increase in numbers. It will cause
itching and hair loss which will eventually lead to
secondary skin infections. These mites are highly
contagious to people and other pets. Trichophyton and Microsporum are fungi that are found in
the soil. Pets that have this type of fungus will have
a circular red lesion on the skin where the hair has
fallen out, hence the common name ringworm.
The fungi are contagious to humans through direct contact with the pet, the infected soil or just
simply from objects the pet has directly contacted
with the lesion. The pet can be diagnosed with
this by a simple light test but sometimes it takes a
fungal culture to be positively diagnosed.
This completes this series on common Zoonotic diseases. Remember, if you think your pet(s)
may have some of the symptoms discussed in
these articles, and you are experiencing them as
well; please see your veterinarian and your general
health care provider. Diseases that are diagnosed
earlier are always easier to treat, but prevention
is the best medicine of all. If you have any questions about this or any other article, or if you have
a topic that you would like Dr. Romero to discuss,
please email to [email protected] or write
to Dr. Romero attn: Doc’s Line 18417 Hwy 105 W.
Ste 5 Montgomery TX, 77356. ◆
By John Doughty
Most of us in Texas do it. Admit it-you do it
too. Winter is here in Texas and it is cold one minute and warm the next minute-and we complain!
Of course, if we lived north of the Mason-Dixon
line, we would be just as likely to complain about
the relentless cold weather. It is, after all, human
nature.
But, then, there are those days that are perfect
for our favorite outdoor activity, so somewhere in
the back of our head, we know if we just wait a
while, the weather we are looking forward to will
appear and we will be off to our favorite fishing
hole, hunting locale, golf course, or other favorite
outdoor site. On those days that hold the right kind
of weather for our outdoor passion, we remember
why we love Texas weather.
Wintertime outdoor activities abound in
South Texas-many of which are easily available for
day trips or weekend trips. Deer are rutting, birds
are flying and fish are biting-so much to do and so
little time. You don’t have to spend a lot of money
either-although Texas has some excellent fishing
and hunting guides if the mood strikes you for a
first class trip.
This article, though not comprehensive, will
direct newcomers to Texas towards some great
outdoor activities and, perhaps, remind some of
the old time Texans of what our home state provides in outdoor opportunities.
Fishing
The water is cold this time of year, but the
fishing can get hot and heavy December through
April-especially if you like fishing for white bass
or crappie. This is the time of year these fish are
14
moving up the rivers and creeks that flow into area
lakes. They can be easy to catch with light fishing
tackle and either small jigs or small minnows (the
smaller the better) .
White bass have already begun their run on
the Trinity river above Lake Livingston, on the San
Jacinto River above Lake Conroe, and on the Frio
River above Choke Canyon at this writing. Both
the numbers and size of these fish will increase at
least through February and early March.
I took a scouting trip to the Stubblefield area
above Lake Conroe Christmas weekend. The water
is extremely low. Stumps that are normally a foot
or two beneath the surface are now three feet or so
above the surface. The good news is that the low
water level should concentrate the white bass in
the area near the bridge that crosses the river near
Lake Stubblefield bringing white bass within reach
of bank fishermen and waders, although a canoe,
kayak or small boat is recommended. Crappie
should be in the same area. On Lake Livingston,
due to the low water, the whites should be stacked
in good numbers just below the lock and dam.
Particularly if you have a young person you
have been waiting for the opportunity to take on
a fishing trip with a good chance for successfully
landing some fish, this is the time! Black bass and
catfish are both commonly caught in the same
places during this time of year as well.
Don’t overlook saltwater fishing in the bays
though! Once the water warms up to about 70 degrees, trout and flounder will be moving through
the cuts from the Gulf into the bay systems. Even
in December and January, good trout and redfish
action can be found in Texas bays.
Deer Hunting
White-Tail Deer season ended on New Year’s
day over most of Texas, but continues through
January 15th in about 30 counties in South Texas
this year. Texas offers ample opportunities for the
hunter who wants to put some venison in their
freezer. Hunting leases are easy to find with just a
little homework, but for those who don’t want to
spend money on a hunting lease, deer hunting is
available in the Sam Houston National Forest as
well as in other forest areas around the state. Be
sure to check Texas Parks and Wildlife and the forestry service for specific regulations regarding the
open hunting areas.
Duck Hunting
Duck hunting in Texas can be awesome, but
the duck seasons vary by species of duck and region, so be sure to check the TPWD current regulations and season dates. The licenses required for
duck hunting may include both the state duck
hunting license and the federal migratory bird license, depending on where you are hunting. Be
sure you know what licenses you need when you
go to your local store because there is no guarantee
that the cashier will know what you need.
There is a wide variety of duck that fly though
Central and South Texas, so I think it is well worth
the price of a guide to identify the birds to avoid
inadvertently shooting the wrong species. Game
wardens tend not to be forgiving of the “I thought
it was a pintail” defense.
For those that don’t want to spend the money
on a lease or on a guide, duck hunting is still available. You may want to check with the ranger stations in the Sam Houston National Forest for bird
hunting locales and rules within the forest boundaries. Although, I have never bird hunted in that
area, I have heard the gunshots and seen the hunters coming and going.
The coastal areas around the Rockport/Corpus Christi area also offers opportunities. Once
duck blinds are placed in the bay waters, they become property of the state, so anyone can use any
duck blind in the bay waters. Please be considerate, though, because the guides and individuals
that put these blinds in the water invested a lot of
time and energy into them. Please clean up all your
spent shells, food wrappers, cups, etc. Try to leave
the blind at least as clean as you found it. There are
also small islands around the bays where you can
lay low and wait for ducks to fly within range.
All you need for either of these “poor boy”
hunting opportunities is a good array of decoys.
In the inland areas, duck calls are effective. On the
coast, duck calls tend to be less effective. Good
camouflage clothing is a must, including head covers and face covers.
website. Register with the golf course and you can
often find some great discounted golf deals. I received a free round of golf at 4 different Austin
area golf courses that offer a free round one week
prior to and after your birthday!
Golf
A final note:
I took up golf last May. I had always underestimated golf, calling it “cow pasture pool”. I used to
make fun of my baseball buddies that played golf
because in baseball, the ball is coming at you fast
and moving. That golf ball is just laying there. This
is my public admission-I was wrong!
Those of you that discovered long before I
did that golf is frustrating, aggravating, down right
angering, challenging and one heck of a lot fun,
already know that Texas is a great place to be during the winter. Golf courses abound in Texas and
green fees can be very reasonable. Where ever you
live in South Texas, there is a public golf course
somewhere nearby.
On days that are too windy or a little too cool
to be on the water fishing, golf offers a great outdoor experience. Finding a public course near you
can be easy. Try going to www.golf512.com to find
great deals on golf in Austin, Houston and Dallas/
Fort Worth. To establish a handicap try www.golfq.
com. Golfq.com will soon offer online tee times as
well.
Another tip: type in the name of any golf
course you like in the search engine of your choice.
You should be able to find a link to the golf course’s
There is so much to do in Texas during the
winter and not nearly enough room to discuss it
all in this article. Hiking, camping, rock climbing,
biking, horseback riding, and bird watching are
just a few of the outdoor opportunities that Texas
offers during the winter months. The sunsets can
be absolutely awe inspiring any time of year in
Texas, but there is something about the sunsets on
a cool evening when the wispy cirrus clouds are
high in the sky and the air is crisp and clear that is
incomparable.
So, you are in Texas-get out
Photo used by permission; Photographer Stephen Griffith
Upcoming Public Events
You can also access the Public Events at www.thelonestar.org
(These events are subject to change)
DATE
EVENT
OCCUPANT
CONTACT INFORMATION FACILITY
1/6/2006
1/7/2006
Youth Conference
Youth Conference
Lake Conroe Youth Conference
Lake Conroe Youth Conference
Michael Ensey 936/441-8875
Michael Ensey 936/441-8875
1/7/2006
1/10/2006
1/12/2006
1/14/2006
1/17/2006
1/20/2006
1/21/2006
1/21/2006
1/22/2006
1/22/2006
1/24/2006
1/26/2006
1/26/2006
1/28/2006
Motorcycle Arenacross
Co. Executive Committee Mtg.
Square Dance
Prospect Show
Schooling Show
Tool Sale
Tool Sale
4-H/FFA Dinner, Auction & Dance
4-H/FFA Lamb/Goat & Pig Shows
Tool Sale
Schooling Show
Campaign Fundraiser
Square Dance
Circus Gatti
Mollymotorspors, LLC
Montg. Co. Republican Party
Conroe Country Cousins Square Dancers
Oak Ridge H.S. FFA
Extension Service
ROOM-AREA GENERAL INFORMATION
JANUARY
1/28/2006 Prospect Show
1/31/2006 Schooling Show
Convention Center BB All
Charlie Pausina 985/966-3163
Expo
Arena
Dr. Walter Wilkerson 936/441-5621 Convention Center BB 2 / YR 1&2
Jim Kimbrough 936/447-5322
Fairgrounds
Horseshoe
Raymond Martinez 281/298-3233 Expo Showbarn
Mike Heimer 936/539-7822
Expo
Arena
Homier Lisa Reece 260/359-6747 Fairgrounds
Ex 2
Ex 2
North Montgomery Co. Support Group
CK Brzymialkiewicz 936/856-4766 Fairgrounds
Horseshoe
Montgomery Youth Agricultural Boosters Pam & Dennis Bridges 936/597-6100 Expo
Showbarn Pigs
Ex 2
Extension Service
Expo
Arena
Grady James
Marie Moore 936/499-9729
Fairgrounds
Ex 2
Conroe Country Cousins Square Dancers Jim Kimbrough 936/447-5322
Fairgrounds
Horseshoe
MJG Entertainment, Inc.
Becky Judd 714/685-1072
Expo
Arena
Montgomery-Dobbin
Extension Service
4-H Jan Roberts 936/447-1869
Expo
Expo
Showbarn
Arena
7:30pm - 11pm
Session1: 9:30-noon
Session2: 5:30pm-8:30pm
7pm - 10pm
6pm - 9:30pm
7:30pm - 9:30pm
9am - 3pm
6:30pm - 9:30pm
10am - 8pm
10am - 8pm
7pm - 12am
10am - 6pm
6:30pm - 9:30pm
5:30pm - 8pm
7:30pm - 9:30pm
1st show: 2p-4p
2nd show: 7p-9p
6:30pm - 9:30pm
FEBRUARY
2/4/2006
Signs & Wonders Outpouring Jody Rogers Evangelical Assoc.
Melissa Barclay 936/264-2486
Convention Center SJ All
2/9/2006
Campaign Fundraiser
Deanne Riley 281/356-2440
or 281/303-6057
Todd Beiter 361/289-2256
Mik Patrick/Richard
Mika
P i k/Ri h d BBurks
k
936/760-7756
Todd Beiter 361/289-2256
Fairgrounds
Sheriff Tommy Gage
2/25/2006 Gun Show
2/25/2006 School
S h lA
Auction
i
T.A. Posey, Inc.
C
Conroe
II.S.D.
SD
2/26/2006 Gun Show
A. Posey, Inc.
Lucky
l
a
p
my
16
Ex 1,2 &3
Breakfast: 9a-11a
Service: 7p-10p
5:30pm - 8:30pm
Fi
Fairgrounds
d
E 1/A
Ex
Area 2
9am - 6pm
10am
10
9am - 5pm
THE POWER REPORT – Special Power Report on Kia
Kia Spectra Ranks Second among Compact Cars
– Spectra among Top 10 Most-Improved Models
The Kia Spectra ranks second in the compact
car segment in J.D. Power and Associates 2005
Initial Quality Study – an industrywide examination of new-vehicle quality after the first 90 days
of ownership. Spectra initial quality improves
dramatically this year – a 39% improvement compared to 2004. This increase demonstrates Kia’s
commitment to continuous quality improvement
for its customers. Since 2001, Kia’s initial quality
has improved 48%.
With 100 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100)
– an average of one problem per vehicle – Spectra surpasses the compact car segment average by
nearly 16%. Spectra initial quality exceeds that
of numerous models including the Honda Civic,
Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Accent,
and Chrysler PT Cruiser. Only the Toyota Prius –a
hybrid – surpasses the Spectra in initial quality.
Spectra shows the most improvement in the
following categories: engine (based on an increase
in the new model’s horsepower), vehicle exterior,
seats, and sound system.
For automotive manufacturers, delivering
high levels of quality off the assembly line isn’t
easy. It takes a high degree of coordination among
design, engineering, and styling disciplines as well
as the right combination of manufacturing efficiency, process control, and build quality. With
Spectra, Kia’s commitment to initial quality is
clear. ◆
Top 10-Most Improved Models Initial Quality
Compact Car Segment Ranking
Problems Per 100 Gap (2004-2005)
Nissan Quest
Kia Spectra
Hummer H2
Scion xA
Chevrolet Astro
Porsche Cayenne
Mitsubishi Outlander
BMW 5 Series Sedan
Nissan 350Z
64
63
62
50
47
46
43
43
Problems Per 100 Vehicles - Lower Score + Higher Quality
2005
104 139
100
110
127
152
186
92
59
112
Source: J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Quality Study™
2004
243
164
173
189
202
233
138
102
155
Toyota Prius
Kia Spectra
Honda Civic (Total)
Toyota Corolla
Hyundai Elantra (Total)
Hyundai Accent
Chrysler PT Cruiser (Total)
INDUSTRY AVERAGE
72
100
104
104
112
116
118
118
Source: J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Quality Study™
whether to loan you the money for the new home.
So, yes, you can borrow to buy a new property
if the conditions are right. Purchasing second
homes and investment properties are at an all
time high!
If you have a real estate question please email
[email protected] and I will be more than
happy to help! You may just find your question in
the next Dock Line! Please visit www.PattiShannonSells.com to view pictures, virtual tours and
price trends in your neighborhood! If you need
the job done call Patti Shannon (936)588-4099
Welcome 2006! Have you made your New Years Resolution? This is for people to begin the New Year with
focused goals, detailed plans, and firm commitments to their individual, family, business, and community
success. If buying or selling Real Estate in Montgomery County is on the list…then choose Patti Shannon
as your personal Realtor and consider it done!
Q: Dear Patti,
What does “escrow” mean?
property using cash from a property you currently own? If so, is this different from home
equity loans or cash-out refinancing?
A: It is simply an arrangement where a third
A: Typically, when you borrow money and
party, such as a title insurance company or a lawyer, holds money or documents and distributes
them according to instructions from both parties.
Q: Dear Patti,
Can you borrow the down payment for a new
18
use your property as collateral, it’s either called a
home equity loan, a home equity line of credit,
or a cash-out refinance. In any of these cases,
the money you have obtained from an existing
property can be used as a down payment on a
new property. The lender of the new property will
look at all of your debt and income to determine
my
buddy
mannie
It’s a New Year and time to ask for a raise, or is
it? Are you in outside sales? Does your job require
you to pay for expenses out of your pocket? Do you
use your own vehicle for work? Do you get an expense reimbursement from your employer? If you
answered yes to any of these questions, you may
want to consider a new strategy in your quest to
increase your income. Every year more Americans
are subject to the Adjusted Minimum Tax, or AMT
as it is usually referred to. As an employee with
unreimbursed expenses you get to deduct those
expenses on Schedule A under miscellaneous deductions. The problem with this is you only get to
deduct the amount over 2% of you adjusted gross
income (AGI) and it may be limited due to excessive income or the AMT may kick in and offset any
tax benefit you would get. Second, meals and entertainment (M & E) are only deductible at 50% of
the amount you actually spent, so you loose half of
that expense as well. So for an employee with AGI
of $50,000 and $3,000 a year in M & E expense,
you only get to deduct $1,000 of the expense even
without any AMT problems. Because of these tax
savings limitations, you may want to ask your employer for an increase in your reimbursed expenses
or to give you an expense account rather than giving you a raise. Your employer has to match Social Security and Medicare taxes you pay in, so by
increasing the amount of reimbursement they pay
you versus increasing your salary they may save
about 8% in payroll taxes. Since the company
can save employment taxes and you can get reimbursed for all of your M & E expense and not be
subject to the 2% limitations or the AMT, you may
well find that you keep more money in you pocket
after tax considerations with a smaller amount,
such as $2,500 in expense reimbursement versus
a $3,500 raise. Explained properly to the employer you have a much greater chance of getting the
money you want because their actual cash out lay
is lower and everyone wins. Since every situation
is different you should consult your tax advisor to
determine what is best for you. If you do not have
a tax advisor the people at TAXPERT Bookkeeping and Accounting would be happy to help you
out. TAXPERT is a full service tax accounting office that is open all year round and not just during
the tax season January to April, so if you get a letter from the IRS or just need some tax advice they
are open and ready to help you. You can call Bill,
Gloria, or Mary Anne at (936) 539-5995 or stop
by the office conveniently located at 118A North
San Jacinto, in Conroe. Office hours are Monday
through Thursday 9-5 and Friday’s 9-3, after hours
appointments are also available. Don’t let the IRS
shake you down, call an expert. ◆
Lake Conroe Yields Second
ShareLunker of the 2005-2006 Season
On December 11th, 2005, Frank Brown of
Houston caught the second ShareLunker largemouth bass of the 2005-2006 season from Lake
Conroe. Brown’s fish weighed in at 14.22 pounds,
the second largest bass every taken from Lake Conroe and, so far, the second largest ShareLunker bass
of the season.
Purpose of the Budweiser
ShareLunker Program
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in
Athens, Texas is headquarters for the Budweiser
ShareLunker program, which encourages anglers
who have caught 13-pound-plus largemouth bass
to lend or donate the fish to TPWD for spawning
purposes. In the production hatchery, the big females are paired with pure Florida strain males.
Superior genetics from ShareLunker females and
their offspring are used to improve the quality
of largemouth bass stocked in Texas waters. Ultimately, TPWD hopes to produce the next world
record largemouth bass.
Background
The roots of the ShareLunker program can
actually be traced to the drought of the 1950’s.
That 10-year dry spell brought home to Texans
the fact that the state’s burgeoning population had
outgrown its water supply. A few reservoirs had
been built previously, but the 1960’s and 1970’s
witnessed the completion of many more. Texas had
only one natural lake — Caddo — and the native
species of Texas bass, the northern, was adapted to
live in streams.
Fish adapted to live in large lakes were needed
to take advantage of the new reservoirs, and in 1971
TPWD brought the first Florida strain largemouth bass
20
to Texas. They were housed at the Tyler Fish Hatchery
(now closed), and the first Florida strain bass were
stocked into Texas waters the following year.
Over the next several years bass from Florida,
California and Cuba were brought to Texas to improve the genetics of the Texas bass population.
The Cuban fish were obtained by sheer daring.
Joe Bob Wells, a Levelland resident who fished in
Cuba frequently, flew to Cuba in December 1984
and brought bass back to Texas via Mexico, since
travel between the United States and Cuba was
prohibited.
As the Florida strain genes worked their way
into the bass population, fish grew bigger. In 1980
a 14.1-pound bass broke the state record of 13.5
pounds that had stood for 43 years. The record
increased again and again, to the current 18.18pound fish caught in 1992. Interest in bass fishing
burgeoned along with the size of the fish.
History
The ShareLunker program (formerly called
Operation Share a Lone Star Lunker and sponsored by the Lone Star Brewing Company, Jungle
Labs and Cajun Boats) was established in 1986 to
promote catch-and-release of large fish and to selectively breed trophy largemouth bass. The first
fish entered into the program was also a new state
record, a 17.67-pounder caught from Lake Fork in
November.
In 1993 the name of the program was changed
to Share a Lunker, Inc., and it was merged with the
Parks and Wildlife Foundation of Texas. Anheuser
Busch became the official sponsor in 1996, and the
name was changed to the Budweiser ShareLunker
Program.
As the program grew, it became obvious that
the Tyler hatchery was inadequate, but there was
no state money available to build a new hatchery,
one tailored specifically to the needs of the program. It was decided to let cities bid to become the
site and help raise the money for it.
Specifications called for the facility to be built
within 50 miles of Lake Fork, because the majority
of big fish are caught there. The Athens community pledged more than $4 million to win the bidding for the site, and the balance of the cost came
from federal Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration
funds and donations. No state money was used for
construction.
TFFC is the house that big bass built. The Edwin L. Cox, Jr., Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
was built around the ShareLunker program. The
Visitor Center complex, including the Lunker
Bunker, was completed in 1996, and the exterior
hatchery ponds went into operation in 1998.
Since the program’s inception more than 360
largemouth bass have been donated from more
than 50 public reservoirs and 11 private lakes.
Budweiser supports the ShareLunker program by providing operating funds, prizes for
anglers who enter fish into the program and the
specially equipped truck used to pick up and return lunkers.
Accomplishments
The Budweiser ShareLunker program has
been instrumental in illustrating the importance
of catch and release fishing in the development of
trophy largemouth bass fisheries. Data collected by
the program shows that it takes 8 to 10 years for
a bass to grow to 13-pound size. Slot limits that
protect large fish have been proven effective in increasing the quality of fishing. Science-based fisheries management has been shown to be the best
method for managing Texas public waters.
Bass fishing has enjoyed an increase in popularity in Texas that parallels the increase in the
number and quality of fish in Texas reservoirs.
Communities near popular bass fishing lakes reap
a significant economic boost from anglers.
Even the fish have benefited from the ShareLunker program. When the program began, little
was known about the procedures needed to care for
big bass. Early in the program, many entries died
while at TPWD facilities. Over time better care has
increased survival to the point that nearly all fish
entered into the program survive to be used for
spawning or are returned to the wild. Even more
importantly, proper fish handling techniques have
been publicized as part of the program, so that anglers are now able to take better care of any fish
they catch.
Program Description
The Budweiser ShareLunker program runs
from October 1 through April 30 in order to cover
the spawning season for the entire state. Through
the program, anglers loan largemouth bass weighing 13 pounds or more to Texas Parks and Wildlife
Department for spawning and research purposes.
At the end of spawning season, the fish will be returned to the angler for live release, or the angler
may donate it permanently to the program. In return for their cooperation, participating anglers
receive a fiberglass replica of their catch made by
Lake Fork Taxidermy, Budweiser ShareLunker
clothing and recognition at an annual awards
banquet at TFFC. In addition, the Texas resident
catching the largest entry of the season is awarded
a lifetime fishing license.
Official ShareLunker Rules
1. The program is limited to largemouth bass
weighing 13 pounds or more. Fish must be
weighed on certified or legal-for-trade scales.
Certified scales are scales that have been
certified as accurate by the Texas Department
of Agriculture, the International Game Fish
Association (IGFA) or a commercial scales
calibration company.
2. The program is normally in effect from
October 1 through April 30.
3. The fish must be legally caught in Texas
waters.
4. A Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
employee will be solely responsible for
accepting a fish into the program based on
the expectation that the fish will be able to
survive and spawn.
5. Possession of the fish must be transferred to a
designated Texas Parks and Wildlife
Continued on page 22 ✒
Current entries into the 2005-2006 Budweiser ShareLunker Program
Date
Angler Name
Home Town
Weight Length Girth
Water Body
Photo & Details
11/28/2005
Jon Babich
Lewisville, TX
13.63
24.25
21
Lewisville
Jon Babich’s fish
12/11/2005
Frank Brown
Houston, TX
14.22
25
23
Conroe
Frank Brown’s fish
12/28/2005
Tom Sutherland
Del Rio, TX
15.68
28.3
21.75
Amistad
Tom Sutherland’s fish
Department representative within 12 hours
after capture. The angler must sign a release
absolving all sponsors, Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department, and Texas Parks and
Wildlife Department employees of any
liability resulting from the loss or death of
their fish.
6. Employees and families of program sponsors
are not eligible for participation in the
program.
7. Anyone catching a fish that may qualify can
call our toll-free, 24-hour pager at
1-888-784-0600 (October 1-April 30 only)
or (903) 681-0550.
Tips for Proper Care and
Handling of Lunker Bass
1. Land the fish as quickly as possible. Playing a
fish to exhaustion diminishes its chance of
survival.
2. If possible, refrain from using a dip net that
has a mesh larger than ¼ inch and/or is not
a smooth mesh. When using a net, always
make sure it is wet before it touches the fish.
3. Avoid excessive handling or dropping of
the fish while removing the hook. The fish will
benefit from remaining in water (boat livewell
or a large cooler filled with water) while the
hook is removed with needlenosed pliers.
Hold the fish vertically by the lower lip while
it is in the water so that the total weight of the
fish doesn’t rest on the lower jaw.
4. Take the fish to a marina or closest
certified scales as soon as possible. Transport
the fish in a properly aerated livewell or a large
cooler equipped with an aerator.
5. Before removing the fish from the transport
container, have the certified scales ready for
weighing. Try to arrange to hold the fish in the
marina’s minnow vat after it is weighed.
22
6. To reduce stress when removing the fish from
the transport container for weighing, move
the fish as close as possible to the scales and
holding vat before removal. If everything is
ready before the fish is removed from the
transport container, weighing time can be less
than one minute.
7. It is best to sedate the fish in the transport
container before weighing or taking pictures.
Marinas and bait shops can supply the
recommended chemicals. Wet your hands
before handling the fish. Lift the fish from
the water vertically by clamping your thumb
on the bottom lip. To raise the fish into a
horizontal position, support the fish’s weight
by placing your off-hand under the fish just
behind the anal fin. This method should also
be used if the fish is not sedated. Don’t roll
back the lip in an effort to paralyze the fish.
This can damage the lower jaw and hinder
or prevent the fish from feeding after being
released. The fish should not be out of the
water longer than 30 seconds. Persons taking
pictures should have their cameras ready
before the fish is removed from the holding
container. Holding the fish out of the water
two to three minutes, or holding it in a plastic
bag without proper aeration, causes stress
that can damage the eyes or cause a bacterial
and/or fungal infection. Such damage could
cause mortality even several weeks later. Note
that stress is increased by extremes in
temperatures and/or windy weather conditions.
8. Ideal water temperature for holding fish is 55
to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the water
temperature should not be changed more
than five or six degrees per hour. If water is
aerated and treated with bacterial/fungal
retardant, low water temperature may not
be crucial.
9. Call Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
at the numbers below as soon as possible with
your name, where the fish is located, a telephone number where you can be reached and
when and where you caught the fish. Be sure
to include your area code when leaving a
message on the pager. Every attempt will be
made to collect the fish within 12 hours,
sooner if possible.
10. To request pickup of a ShareLunker
(largemouth bass 13 pounds or over, legally
caught in Texas waters between October 1
and April 30), call (903) 681-0550 or page 1
(888) 784-0600 and leave a number, including
area code. ◆
Black Bass: Although the lake has been
lowered to near 4 ft., anglers can find bass
holding near structures such as bridges,
breakwaters and some boat dock pilings
with depths from 7-12 ft. Crankbaits, spinnerbaits and plastic worms can all be good
choices along these areas and you might
slow your retrieve to trigger a strike in theses cooler water temperatures.
Crappie: I like this time of year for crappie
because they bunch up, meaning if you locate one, there could be several in the same
structure. With the water temperature being in the mid 50’s crappie generally hold
in 20-30’ depths and can be caught along
bridge pilings and around deep brush piles.
White Bass & Hybrid Striped Bass: Whites
and hybrids are a lot of fun to catch and
the action can be great for the next several
months as cooler water temperatures seem
to bunch these fish up as well. Jigging and
bouncing slab spoons on the bottom of submerged humps and points in depths of 1528’ is a good choice for catching these fish
and also trolling pet spoons behind deep
diving crankbaits is another.
Catfish: Good catfish action can be found
anywhere along the river channel and along
major creeks as well. Baiting up with range
cubes or maze will bring these fish to your
area and fishing cut shad, chicken livers and
stinkbaits should get some good action and
some nice cats. ◆
my
Friend
Sassy
24
MEXICAN FAN PALM
Common Name: Mexican Fan Palm
Scientific Name: Washingtonia robusta
Debris: Light
Type: Evergreen
Height: Up to 100 Feet
Canopy Width: Up to 10 Feet
Rate of Growth: Very Fast
Exposure: Full sun
Water: Little to regular water
Climate: Hardy to 20 degree F
Diseases: Leafspot, root rot,
canker, dieback, lethal yellowing,
Stigmina leaf spot.
Soil Type: Takes poor soil
Leaves: Head of bright green foliage is more
compact than that of the California Fan
Palm. Leaf stalks are also shorter with distinguishing reddish streak on underside
Mexican Fan Palms
are very hardy, rapid
growing and very affordable for any landscaping project
you may decide upon. Native to
the riparian washes and gullies of
Northern Mexico, Baja, Southern
California and Arizona the Mexican Fan Palm is very drought and
salt tolerant once established. It will
adapt to a wide range of soil types,
and climates. Mexican Fan Palms are
available in sizes from 4 feet to 50
feet, bare rooted or boxed. They are
cold hardy palm trees to 18 degrees
(lower depending on the age and
growth of the palm tree). Mexican
Fan Palms can grow up to 100 feet
tall and they’re known as the “Skyscraper” of the palm world and are
truly a striking sight. These palms
have many fine attributes includ-
ing salt resistance and a fast rate of growth.
Cold hardy Mexican Fan Palms have tall
slender trunks topped with crowns of large
fan-shaped evergreen fronds. The palm has
a gray trunk ringed with closely set leaf scars
although usually at least part of the trunk
remains covered with dead leaves that hang
in a thatch. The solitary trunks, about 1012 in (25.4-30.5 cm) in diameter, bulge at
the ground and become slender as they approach a crown of large palmate leaves with
gracefully drooping leaflet tips.
This is a spectacular palm for landscaping large areas and around swimming pools.
Mexican Fan palm trees are also frequently
seen guarding the entrances to upscale housing developments and standing in regiments
along boulevards. ◆
By Reed Eichelberger
Since the last report in the November/December issue, good things have happened.
Blake had reported on the damage caused by
Hurricane Rita in that issue, and you’ll recall
that at the time we were concerned that the
work could cost up to $5 million and take as
long as six to eight months. Once the engineers had time to study the damage and the
necessary repairs, they determined that the
damage was probably more on the order of
$3 million, and the time to complete the work
probably no more than four months. By the
time they had completed the bidding package, both the engineers and the SJRA were
comfortable that the cost would probably be
less than $3 million, and that the work could
be completed in 100 calendar days at the
maximum. Bids were received on December
5, 2005, with six construction companies submitting bids. The bids ranged from a low of
$1,689,502 to a high of $3,249,075. The engineers did a very quick and thorough check
of the low bidder, who was Serco Construction Group, LTD, and found them to be very
capable of performing the work. In a special
board meeting on December 8th, the SJRA
Board of Directors authorized the General
Manager to sign a contract with Serco, contingent on the engineers approval of the bonds
and insurance required by the contract. This
has all occurred, and the contracts have been
signed.
The contract allowed for 100 calendar
days for the construction, and also provided
for a $1000 per day bonus for each day that
the contractor finishes ahead of schedule. In
the pre-construction meeting with the Contractor, which was held on January 4th, he
presented his schedule indicating no problem
in meeting the April 18th completion date. In
fact, he believes that he can beat that date
by a significant amount. The first week of the
26
year, the Contractor was busy getting submittals approved from the engineer, delivering
equipment to the job site, staking work limits,
and generally mobilizing for the job.
Rock deliveries began on Monday, January 9th and continue for the duration of the
job. The rock is being trucked in from a quarry
near Corsicana and will be delivered to the
dam by way of SH 105. So, we urge everyone
to use caution over the next few months while
driving on SH 105, and to especially watch
for turning trucks at Dam Site Road and the
access road at the west end of the dam near
the entrance to Waterford Estates. The Contractor will stockpile rock at the east end of
the dam and the repair work will also begin at
the east end and progress in a westerly direction.
By the next issue, we hope to be able to
report that the job is well ahead of schedule,
and that the SJRA will be paying a large bonus for an early completion. Then we will need
everyone to do their rain dance, or sweet talk
Mother Nature, or whatever else they can do
to assure that the rains come, because that
is the only way this lake will refill. I hate to
disappoint some of you that think there is a
valve on the upper end of the lake that we can
open to refill the lake, but that just isn’t the
case. Only the Good Lord above can do that
by providing timely rains!
One other issue that is on many peoples
minds is the reintroduction of the Grass Carp,
or White Amur, into Lake Conroe. If you have
been on another planet the last 6 months and
have no idea what I’m talking about, it is the
much studied, highly debated, and yes, highly
anticipated reintroduction of the Grass Carp
to help control the re-infestation of Hydrilla.
Blake talked at length in the last issue about
this, so we won’t go into much detail. However, it should be noted that the public meetThe Dock Line Magazine January/February 2006 23
ing that occurred on November 15th was
extremely well attended, with over 500
participants. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) made a very interesting and informative presentation on
the benefits of the Grass Carp in a limited
and controlled program, and numerous
property owners, business owners and
bass fisherman took the opportunity to
voice their opinion. The most surprising
results of the meeting was that property
owners and bass fisherman alike were
both in favor of the program as outlined
by the TPWD. Apparently, almost everyone concerned believes that a limited and
controlled program will benefit all users of
the lake, and, unlike the first stocking in
the 1980’s, when the bass fisherman filed
lawsuits to prevent the stocking, everyone
is working together this time. I believe the
initial stocking will be limited to 4000 fish
and should occur sometime in February.
We are aware of several projects
around the lake that are taking advantage
of the low water by repairing piers and
bulkheads, dredging boat slips, removing submerged stumps and tree tops, and
cleaning the lake bottom in front of private
properties. This is a great idea, and we
strongly encourage everyone to do so.
We have also observed a fair amount of
boating activities including fishing, skiing
and sailing. There is still plenty of lake to
enjoy, but, as we’ve warned in the past,
please be aware of changed conditions
brought on by the lower water level, and
exercise appropriate caution.
Continue to check the SJRA’s web
site at www.sjra.net for updates on construction activities and the Grass Carp
stocking. We’ll try to post periodic pictures
showing the progress. ◆
Scooter’s Sailfish
Grounds at Karmina Palace
If you are in the mood for a not so typical
vacation, Manzanillo is the place for you. Made
popular by the movie “10” in the 70’s and also
Mexico’s largest seaport, this bustling city has
much to offer. In the 70’s tourism reached it peak
and was popular among vacationers but in more
recent years tourism from the states is not what it
once was. Business people from Mexico City and
other cities in Mexico who come for both business and pleasure frequent restaurants and its
beaches. Nightlife is not what other cities such as
Cancun offer but you will find people gathered at
local eateries and watering holes enjoying a quiet
evening in a relaxed atmosphere.
Fishing is a popular recreation here and
they boast that they are the sailfish capital of the
world. I can’t confirm that they are indeed the
capital in that respect but I can say I personally
enjoyed watching an 8.5-foot sailfish caught. The
fishing starts almost immediately from the point
of leaving the harbor and watching the sun come
up while aboard a boat is most memorable.
On our recent trip in November almost everyday appeared to be hazy but we were told it
was from an active volcano in the area and the
evaporation from the recent rainy season. Even
in that type of setting it wasn’t hard to develop a
mild sunburn if you weren’t careful.
I would like to return someday but if I were
to do so I would book a smaller hotel and primarily charter fishing trips in the mornings and
relax in the afternoons. Shopping is almost nonexistent in Manzanillo but a side trip to Colima
fills the bill well. In fact several days there would
be even better. So if you would like to take a not
so typical Mexican vacation look strongly at this
destination. ◆
Active Volcano
Banana Plantation
Colima
28 The Dock Line Magazine February/March 2006
By Cary Wortham
Happy New Year!
We all hope that you had
a safe and joyous Holiday!
In the last issue I started off admiring the cooler
temperatures. It’s now January and I wonder if we
will even have a winter. Oh well, you know what
they say…If you like changing weather then welcome to Texas. (Heck, it may even snow in May….
na, not a chance of that I promise.)
The one thing I can promise is that the insect world is rejoicing because of the lack of a hard
winter. Many of you may already be recognizing
their celebration…ant mounds, bees and wasps,
tree roaches roaming through the house, and even
our wonderful mosquitoes are back interrupting
“our” time outside.
Yes, we may get some more “cooler” weather. However, if you are experiencing these insects
now, you can bet you will be seeing them in greater
forces come the “Spring” (February??). All homes
and businesses should have protection from invading insects. While most insects are harmless, there
are many that you do not want to take up shop on
your property because of the damage and diseases
that they associate. The “Old Days” of pest control are truly over. There really is no need to enter
most homes or businesses every three months and
“blanket” the baseboards with chemicals. Initially,
an interior inspection and treatment should be
performed. However, we have discovered that by
performing an every other month exterior service
that the potential for pest activity inside is greatly
reduced. This isn’t to say that the inside will never
require treatment, but the interior truly does not
need an application every three months. Targeted
applications to the entry points in our homes/offices are the correct and responsible application
method. Not to mention the benefits of reduced
chemical applications in the interior areas where
we spend the majority of our time. Other benefits include scheduling, i.e., you do not have to be
home in order to insure that your property is being
protected from invading insects…no more hassles
of scheduling your service. Scheduling of service
would only be required when you needed interior
treatment.
Fire ants are already on the move. If you
are tired of chasing the mounds around your
lawn, you should consider a granular application of Top Choice. This product works great for
twelve months. It’s slow to start, but when it takes
charge…no more Fire ants. Unfortunately, this
product is not available “over the counter”. Top
Choice should be purchased through and applied
by a licensed pest control operator.
If you hated the mosquitoes this past summer (and late December) then now is the time to
consider the installation of a mosquito misting
system. Though it is called a mosquito misting
system, you also get control of other flying insects
such as wasp, bees, flies, and those nuisance “lake
flies”. So, if you are tired of swatting at these guys
to keep them out of your coffee and ears, give us
call, we can help.
Just a reminder, it’s still comfortable outside
and exclusion/alterations should be performed. If
you have heard noises in the attic or seen bees and
wasp entering around the eaves, then now is the
time to correct this problem. Professional exclusion services are well worth the cost. If done by
a professional, you can look at paying $75-$300,
depending on the extent of the work. But once this
is completed you need not worry about rodents
and varmints entering and damaging your home.
Remember, tree limbs should be cut back six feet
or more from the home and shrubs or ornamental
trees/bushes should not touch the brick or siding.
If you would like more information or a
free proposal on these systems or any pest related
service, please contact me at Chase Pest Control.
Our office number is 936-441-2847 or by email at
[email protected]. Until the next issue,
have a great time outdoors. ◆
Political Signs Illegal on
National Forests and
Grasslands in Texas
It may be early in the election process, but already political posters are sprouting up like wildflowers. And while every candidate has the right to
put out signs, placing them on the National Forests
and Grasslands in Texas is illegal.
According to Patrol Captain David Norsworthy,
it’s a problem that comes around every election year.
“When nails are driven into trees, the wounds
can attract insects and diseases that can attack the
trees,” Norsworthy said. “Some posters have been
found nailed to road signs at intersections creating visibility hazards to oncoming traffic, and then
when the elections are over, the candidates are
gone, but the signs still litter the forests and grasslands.”
Persons posting signs on government property
can be charged with several violations, including:
• Injuring any property of the U.S. Forest
Service
• Posting notices without a permit
• Obstructing road signs
• Littering
“It is the candidate’s responsibility to make
sure their signs are not posted on property of the
National Forests and Grasslands in Texas,” Norsworthy said. “When we find violations, we will
know who to contact.”
Fines range from $50 to $400 for each offense. ◆
my friends
Sophie and
Ria
30
January 21, 2006
“Los Lobos” with opening act – “Sisters Morales” at the Sounds of Texas Music Series at
the Historic Crighton Theatre in downtown
Conroe. For information call 936-522-3025.
January 24 - February 5, 2006
CAVALIA – “A new fairy tale-like show from
the imagination of a Cirque Du Soleil founder.” Under the White Big Top in Houston – Uptown/Galleria. Tickets now on sale by calling
866-999-8111 or go to www.cavalia.net
February 17-28, 2006
Mardi Gras Galveston. The largest Mardi Gras
celebration in Texas has more than 75 events
including: an awesome entertainment district,
colorful parades and processions, elaborate
balls and parties, plus exciting exhibits and
sporting events. This pre-Lenten celebration
draws an estimated 500,000 revelers to beautiful Galveston Island each year. Although there
isn’t an official theme this year, this Mardi Gras
will “Salute the Gulf Coast” in recognition of
the strength and endurance of the many people who live in the area. Contact the Galveston
Island Convention & Visitors Bureau for more
information at 888-425-4753 or call 409-7975164, or visit www.mardigrasgalveston.com,
or call Cathy Veniegas, Special Events Coordinator at 409-797-5157.
February 23 - March 19
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo celebrates Texas traditions as only Houston can.
The fun begins Feb. 23-25 at Reliant Park with
the World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest.
The Downtown Rodeo Parade brings cowboys to city streets Feb. 25 at 9 a.m. RODEO
HOUSTON at Reliant Stadium, runs Feb. 29Mar. 19. World champions compete in bull
riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and concerts by music superstars. Tickets start at $14,
and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets
and at the Astrodome box office. Free shuttle
available. Location: Reliant Park. For more information, call (832) 667-1000; or go to www.
rodeohouston.com; www.hlsr.com ◆
my pal
weenie
2006 Day-Use Passes
Now Available
Day-use passes from the National Forests and
Grasslands in Texas are now available at district offices and the supervisor’s office.
The pass entitles visitors to unlimited day use
in participating fee areas forest wide from January
1 to December 31, 2006 and includes such things
as access to boat launches, picnic areas, swimming
beaches and trailheads.
An agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers and the Kisatchie National Forest in
Louisiana allows visitors to also use the pass at
selected boat launches at Sam Rayburn Reservoir,
Town Bluff Reservoir and National Forest recreation sites in Louisiana. In addition, the pass is
also honored at Haley’s Ferry, East Hamilton Boat
Ramp, Ragtown, Lakeview, Willow Oak, and Indian Mounds operated by Sabine River Authority, and Harvey Creek, operated by San Augustine
County.
Annual passes are $30 for one and $45 for two.
Holders of Golden Age or Golden Access passports
pay $15 for one and $22.50 for two.
“For folks who make regular trips to the lake,
this is one of the best bargains around,” said Forest Supervisor Fred Salinas. “And the fees stay in
the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas to
help maintain and improve the recreation areas so
many enjoy.”
The pass does not cover fees for overnight
use, fees to reserve a picnic pavilion, fees in other
national forests or areas run by private concessionaires.
Passes may be purchased at Ranger District
Offices in Zavalla, Hemphill, Ratcliff, New Waverly
and Decatur, or at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in
Lufkin. For more information, call 936-639-8501. ◆
my buddies
Pooh Bear
&
bailey
32
Curtis and grandson “Catfish Ricky” on a half day
Christmas trip with Catfish
Killer.
Nice box of catfish in December all
caught on rod and reel using Catfish
Killer Cheese Dip Bait. Up to 4#
catfish!! Fun trip!
Mid December trip with the
Catfish Killer. 40 nice eating
size catfish up to 4#. Darrell
from Colorado City, Texas and
father-in-law Bad, Bad-Leroy
Brown from Houston.
All catfish caught on Catfish Killer
Cheese Dip Bait on rod and reel on a
very beautiful and fun day on Lake
Conroe with two great guys!
Should you want to book a trip with
The Catfish Killer just give him a call at 936-788-4413
34
Butch
Terpe,
Bob Fisk
and son
Brink
Butch Terpe with Colleen
& Lisa Le Bourgeois
You can reach Butch Terpe, Lake
Conroe Guide Service at 936-856-7080
to inquire about fishing trips.
Squeezing
Every Last Dollar
From Your Home Sale
Here is an informative report that provides you with several ways – some very
inexpensive – to help you get top dollar from your home sale.
It happens all the time. A home seller puts his
quicker and for thousands more.
home up for sale. After several months, and a few
Report Shows How To Sell For More
price reductions later, the seller begrudgingly sells
Melissa & Rosie have used this knowledge
it – taking longer than he hoped and getting a price
to put together a special report entitled “Squeezlower than anticipated. That
ing Every Last Dollar From
home seller probably could Call and order your
Your Home Sale.” In this free
have avoided this predicament.
you will find several
FREE special report! report,
If he had simply taken a little
invaluable suggestions on
money and with a little effort
how to increase the saleability
on his part, he could have squeezed more money
and price of your home and sell it quicker. Want
out of his home sale, and sold it much quicker.
to know which renovation can give you more than
A Little Goes A Long Way
100% return on investment? Would you like to
Realtors® Melissa Carnine & Rosie Thomas
know the Do’s and Don’ts of remodeling and renohave helped countless home sellers to get their
vations? The answers are in this report.
home sold quickly and for top dollar. These homes
Who Should Order This Report?
came in many shapes, sizes and conditions. They’ve
Even if you don’t plan on selling for a few
seen home sellers perform minor clean-up and reyears, this report can be used like a reference
pair work, then they were able to sell their home
manual for you to decide on a priority list of improvements – use it to plan a proactive course to
a much more profitable home sale years later. To
order your free special report prepared by Melissa
Carnine & Rosie Thomas, simply call and request
your copy. It’s that easy. Order yours today. ◆
18784 Hwy 105 West
Montgomery, TX 77356
Melissa 713-962-3568
Rosie 936-443-1203
36
Margie’s Taco
Soup
1 – 2 Lbs. Ground Meat
2 Cans Ranch Beans
2 Cans Hominy
2 Cans Rotel Tomatoes
1 Package Ranch Dressing Mix
(Dry)
1 Package Taco Seasoning (Dry)
Brown, then drain meat and place
in a large saucepan or kettle. Add
beans, hominy, tomatoes, dressing
mix and taco seasoning. Heat until
hot and serve with crackers or tortilla chips.
Submitted by: Katie Devore
Margie’s Navajo Fried Bread
4 Cups Flour
1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Tablespoon of Baking Powder
1 Can Evaporated Milk
Mix flour, baking powder, salt and canned milk by hand. Knead dough until
smooth. Dough is not sticky. Allow dough to “rest” for 5 minutes. Pull off a section about the size of a golf ball and roll out with a rolling pin as thin as you can
get it. It should be about the size of a plate. Fry in deep hot oil. Dough will puff
up and cooks fast so watch it closely, turn once. It cooks in only a few minutes.
Dust with cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar or top with honey. This is the traditional bread of the Navajo Indians. They eat it plain with coffee. Also, you can
top it with your favorite chili, cheese, onions, lettuce and tomatoes, sour cream,
and salsa and have a Navajo Taco. Yummy….
Submitted by: Katie Devore
Mail to: The Dock Line Co.
5441 Edgewater Ct. Willis, TX 77318
or E-mail to: [email protected]
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Time to Choose a SmallBusiness Retirement Plan?
If you own a small business, you’re
always thinking about today. How can
you get more customers today? Is your
cash flow sufficient for today? What are
your competitors doing today? However,
you can’t forget about tomorrow. Specifically, you need to make sure you’re building sufficient financial resources to enjoy
a comfortable retirement. To help you do
just that, you need the right small-business retirement plan.
And the beginning of a new year is
a perfect time to set up the right plan for
your needs. You have several attractive
options, all of which offer some key benefits, including tax-deferred earnings, the
ability to make pretax contributions and a
variety of investment choices.
Let’s take a quick look at some of the
most popular retirement plans for small
businesses.
If you have no employees, or your
spouse is your only employee, you may
want to consider one of these plans:
• SEP IRA — With a SEP IRA, you
can contribute up to 25% of your compensation into the plan, up to a maximum of
$44,000 in 2006.
• Owner-only 401(k) — If you have an
“owner-only” 401(k), you can put in up to
25% of your compensation plus $15,000
(in 2006). If you’re 50 or older, you can add
an additional $5,000 in “catch-up” contributions. (However, you can’t contribute
more than $44,000 in 2006 if you’re under
age 50, or $49,000 annually if you’re 50 or
older.) Owner-only 401(k) plans also can
permit larger contributions if your spouse
works for the business.
• Owner-only Defined Benefit —
This plan may be appropriate for you if you
earn more than $100,000 annually from
your business, are over age 40, can commit to contribute for at least three years
and desire much larger contributions than
are possible with the SEP IRA or owneronly 401(k).
If you have employees, you may want
to investigate one of these plans:
• SIMPLE IRA — A SIMPLE IRA is
easy to set up and inexpensive to administer. In 2006, you and each of your employees can contribute up to $10,000 (or
38
$12,500 if age 50 or over) to a SIMPLE
IRA. Your business is generally required
to match both your and your employees’
contributions, dollar for dollar, up to 3% of
their salary, unless you decide to put in
2% of each eligible employee’s compensation.
• Safe Harbor 401(k) — A Safe Harbor 401(k) offers the features of a traditional 401(k), with a key difference: You,
as the business owner, can contribute up
to the annual maximum ($15,000 in 2006
or $20,000 if you’re 50 or older), regard-
less of how much your employees contribute. Your business is generally required to
match both your contributions and those
of your employees, dollar for dollar, up
to 4% of their salary, unless you decide
to put in 3% of each eligible employee’s
compensation.
• Safe Harbor 401(k) with Age-enhanced Profit Sharing — Your business
can make additional profit-sharing contributions to a Safe Harbor 401(k) plan. If
you are older than most of your employees, you can structure your plan so that
the contributions going to your account,
and to those of your key employees, are
much higher than the percentage going to
the remainder of employees.
Which retirement plan is right for you?
It all depends on your individual situation.
Your tax adviser and investment representative can help you choose the plan
that’s right for your needs now — and in
the future. ◆
32
The Dock Line Magazine January/February 2006

Dock Line Jan-Feb 06.indd

Transcription

Similar documents

How it works… Get moving….hop a bus and see Waco!

Private Drinking Water Well Basics

Program Layout

opens in theaters, texas-wide, february 17, 2012

VSTi Thank you for purchasing the Depeche Mode

team graphics - Sam Bass Gallery

the network

A Guide For Selecting and Planting Native Cacti

jfifq^ov cfk^k`fkd moldo^j

Presentation - the Texas Department of Transportation FTP Server

Uncovering an Obscure Trade: Threatened