Galveston beaches...a place where memories have been made for decades. It was amazing to see how much sand was reclaimed by Mother Nature during Hurricane Ike. Beaches basically gone...washed back out to sea. And now, it's even more amazing to see the beaches being rebuilt. Day by day, truckload by truckload sand now fills in the gaps and gullies left as a reminder of Ike's visit. The process reminded me of a "tug-o-war" game -- Mother Nature vs. Galveston! From what I can see, Galveston is definitely winning!
Not too long ago, I was driving along the Seawall enjoying one of our beautiful Galveston days when I noticed all the activity. Truck after truck...organized, methodical and steady...seemed to be feeding the sand-starved areas from 61st St. to 49th St. They reminded me of an over sized army of ants (yes, everything really is BIGGER in Texas!) as they rumbled along, then left their gift to the Island's coast. I was so enthralled, I had to stop and chronicle the event. Our Houston ABC affiliate was on hand to capture the activity as well: http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/local&id=6668204. Now weeks later, the sand reconstruction has continued to grow our beaches toward the 16th St finish line...with the exception of a few stretches not conducive to beach re-nourishment at this time. The Texas General Land Office, and Commissioner Jerry Patterson, have just announced beginning October 1, beach reconstruction will cover areas from the end of the Seawall and extend 6 miles west. That's wonderful!
Galveston beaches are such an important part of the local and regional economy. But more importantly, the beaches are a place where memories are made. Family picnics, romantic walks, Mardi Gras Parades, Landry's 4th of July Celebrations, and simple moments of relaxation in the gentle gulf coast breeze...our beaches are an integral part of who we are and who we want to be....Galvestonians.
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