From the compiled files of the Northeast News
JANUARY
Aldine Community distributed toys and bikes to 300 needy families. A store located at Crosstimbers shut down for selling Kush. New Travel Plaza on Beltway 8 boosts economy in the area. Merlin Griggs, Aldine ISD board member dies. Macy’s announced closing of store at Greenspoint Mall. Democrats fought to save Obamacare. Aldine FFA took place, grand champion sold for $14,000.
FEBRUARY
North Houston District recognized Community Champions. Noble Energy donates $750,000 to Aldine Education Foundation. Congressman Gene Green proposed an Amendment to abolish Electoral College vote. Harris County combated animal overpopulation, spaying and neutering dogs and cats. District Attorney announced there will be no prosecution of low amounts of marijuana.
MARCH
East Aldine District hold a community workshop to advance ideas and goals for the New Town Center that is being planned on a 61 acre site on Aldine Mail Rt. Aldine ISD named Mariangela Garcia and Lester Morrow as Teachers of the Year.
APRIL
MacArthur High School hold its 2nd Annual Car Show to raise funds and support livestock projects for the students. Sheriff Ed Gonzalez met with community in Aldine to update on jail and office status. A fire destroyed apartment building on Aldine Mail Rt. and JFK Blvd, the building was unoccupied. Castlewood Civic Club hosted Spring Fest.
MAY
A massive fire destroyed Charlie’s BBQ on Airline, Aldine Family Hope Center celebrated its 27th anniversary. Aldine Education Foundation awarded 264 scholarships to high school seniors. Aldine ISD announced the reconfiguration of all schools in 2018; Trustees approved “District of Innovation” and school closing plan.
JUNE
Memorial Herman Northeast Hospital held groundbreaking of new tower. Trail improvements for W.E. Bill Crowley Park took place under Harris County Pct. 2. Aldine ISD recognized partners at the annual Business Partners Appreciation Luncheon. Gov. Abbott vetoes 50 Bills. UT Physicians opened new clinic serving the Aldine and Jensen Communities. Bonding Against Adversity held its annual scholarship ceremony.
JULY
Harris County Pct. 2 began construction from Lillja to Sweeney Rd. on Aldine Mail Rt. Castlewood Civic Club celebrated 4th of July with parade. Harris County Emergency Corps received Lifeline EMS Recognition award. Houston Community College established footprint in Acres Homes. Legislature held a Special Session.
AUGUST
Water Utility services crisis for four neighborhoods near resolution. Campus Carry law took effect at Lone Star College. Aldine ISD held Family Engagement Expo for back to school. Congressman Gene Green hosted 22nd annual immunization day. Group of people announced the buying of Greenspoint Mall, plan to redevelop as mixed use project. HURRICANE HARVEY RAVAGED TEXAS; thousands rescued from flood homes, auto and hospitals; it delayed the opening of many schools that were flooded.
SEPTEMBER
Countless volunteers help in the path to recovery after Harvey; victims received help at different distribution centers. Houston ISD approved extended school day to make up time due to Harvey. Aldine ISD provided free meals to all students during September due to Harvey. Aerial mosquito spraying began after flood.
OCTOBER
Rep. Walle held Town Hall, informed constituents on Legislature and Harvey Flood Relief. Greenspoint Mall became Disaster Relief Center; thousands lined-up to sign up for food assistance. Kroger on Aldine Mail Rt. closed. Aldine ISD Superintendent, Dr. Wanda Bamberg and Deputy Superintendent, Archie Blanson announced their retirement at the end of the school year. Aldine District held annual Fun Fall Fest.
NOVEMBER
ASTROS won World Series against Dodgers, city celebrated with parade. East Aldine District recognized for CERT Training. Aldine ISD Board of Trustees on ballot for Nov. 7 election. Veterans honored in Aldine with parade, festivities. Congressman Gene Green held Town Hall on flood issues; Rep. Green announced retirement, Sen. Garcia announced she will seek seat. East Aldine District approved new office design.
DECEMBER
Beasley Tire opened retread facility. State Rep. Senfronia Thompson filed for re-election. Aldine ISD approved search for new superintendent. Baker Ripley named new President and CEO, Claudia Aguirre-Vasquez. Aldine Christmas events included Aldine Family Hope Center Open House and Toy Drive, Nadine Kujawa Senior Citizen Gala and Bonding Against Adversity annual Green Community Holiday Dinner. East Aldine presented partners awards.