Get Caught Up with Tink’s City Manager Update.
Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson. 6:00 p.m. 8/20/2020
Hello everyone! It’s been a while since we have done one of these. With COVID numbers running about the same daily, the report began sounding like an old rerun each day. So, I decided to change the format to more of a weekly report, unless we have something very important to address. We do have a couple of important items to address today.
Starting off, today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 10,283 confirmed (71 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque’s total number is now at 727. The GCHD is also reporting that 6,527 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 491. There are currently 3,681 active cases in Galveston County, with 90 county residents hospitalized.
Of note on the virus was a comment made today in the countywide update meeting from the GCHD stating that they are starting to see a few cases where an individual who tested positive and recovered has become "re-infected" and tested positive again. We must all remember that this is a novel (new) virus strain, and there are many unknowns when it comes to the virus. The ability to be "re-infected" is obviously not unheard of (you can get the flu more than once), yet the possibility that this virus could infect the same person in the same year more than once is definitely a concern. As we progress, we will obviously know more about this. In the meantime, stay safe and protect yourself even if you have been infected and recovered.
The weather is something we all need to be watching right now. Tropical Depressions #13 and #14 are both likely headed into the Gulf. TD #14 is the most concerning for the Texas Coast at this time. The storm track for it shows Galveston County to be a likely place for it to make landfall. At this point, the National Weather Service is anticipating it to be a tropical storm when it arrives, with strong winds and rain. If it follows the projected path, we would likely start seeing winds around midday Monday with landfall on Tuesday morning. This storm is still developing and could change significantly over the next few days. We will keep you updated on any changes each day.
One last note. The La Marque Public Library has started providing access to public computers again, by appointment only. The details are listed below.
· Public computers are available by appointment only, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
· Call 409-938-9270 to schedule a session
· One hour per day per person
· Please wear a mask, use hand sanitizer and expect to have your temperature taken
· Computer stations will be cleaned between customers.
· Collection remains closed for public browsing; however, our curbside pickup service for books and DVDs is still happening for items you’d like to checkout.
Be smart, social distance, mask up, follow the guidance, stay weather aware and keep your eye on the skies, everyone!
Another positive day. The 62 confirmed cases today on a weekday matches yesterday and are the lowest numbers we have seen in quite a while.
6:30 p.m. 8/6/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 9,230 confirmed (62 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had three (3) additional confirmed cases reported since Friday, raising our total number to 657. No additional deaths were reported in the county today.
The GCHD is also reporting that 3,846 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 282. There are currently 5,311 active cases in Galveston County, with 97 county residents hospitalized.
Another positive day. The 62 confirmed cases today on a weekday matches yesterday and are the lowest numbers we have seen in quite a while. Today’s positivity rate was approximately 6.5%. That is a continued improvement on the 10-12% rates we were seeing over the last few weeks. With continued vigilance from all in following the guidance provided and adhering to state orders, we can continue to improve on these numbers.
As we approach the end of the first week of August there is still a lot of uncertainty in the air. Our traditional tasks of preparing for school openings, fall sports, college student departures for the next level of education and similar functions are in many cases still pending decisions to be made, or are already postponed.
We will undoubtedly still need to adjust our perception of normal throughout the fall of 2020. Keeping a positive attitude towards doing what must be done to combat the spread of this virus will help not only yourself but everyone around you. It’s not forever, but it is necessary right now. We are all in this together, and it will take all of us pulling together to get through it … and we will get through this.
Be smart, social distance, mask up, follow the guidance, stay weather aware and keep your eye on the skies, everyone!
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 9,168 confirmed (62 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had three (3) additional confirmed case reported since Friday, raising our total number to 654. No additional deaths were reported in the county today.
Some positive takeaways from today. Together, we will see brighter days ahead.
6:30 p.m. 8/5/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
The GCHD is also reporting that 3,750 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 271. There are currently 5,345 active cases in Galveston County, with 97 county residents hospitalized.
Some positive takeaways from today. The 62 confirmed cases on a weekday is the lowest number we have seen in quite a while. Today’s positivity rate was also lower (5.4%) than what we have seen in some time. Those are both really good reports for our area. Also, today was the first day in a very long time that the number of recoveries was higher than the number of new reported cases, thereby reducing our county wide active case count. Hopefully, we can keep that trend up for a while and get some relief for our medical facilities and their staff members. We all know they could use it.
I saw a report this morning out of Houston of an experimental drug that is having a huge positive impact in treating COVID-19 patients in an ICU up there. That treatment sounds very promising. Multiple companies are testing vaccines with some successes also. Each day provides researchers with more data and a better understanding of this novel virus. Together, we will see brighter days ahead.
Be smart, social distance, mask up, follow the guidance, stay weather aware and keep your eye on the skies everyone!
Enjoy our city parks with plenty of room for social distancing. We still have masks available at City Hall for citizens.
6:30 p.m. 8/4/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 9,106 confirmed (107 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had ten (10) additional confirmed cases reported since Friday, raising our total number to 651. No additional deaths were reported in the county today.
The GCHD is also reporting that 3,642 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 259. There are currently 5,391 active cases in Galveston County, with 93 county residents hospitalized.
The dog days of summer are back again. The heat has made staying home and staying inside more bearable for many. The extended nature of this pandemic has made it difficult to settle into life with a wholly different routine than what we were so used to doing. While we may not be able to spend time doing many of the things we historically have done during the summer months, that does not mean there are no options.
Our city parks are still open and provide opportunities for everything from walking to reading, fishing to throwing a football, and bird watching to quiet reflection. La Marque has a park that meets all of the needs of these activities and more while providing ample space to maintain social distancing requirements. If you haven’t been to a park lately, now is a great time to get a little fresh air and spend some time outdoors.
We still have masks available at City Hall for citizens of La Marque that need them. Just drive through the utility billing lanes and show the ladies your driver’s license or utility bill with a La Marque address. They will take care of you!
Be smart, social distance, mask up, follow the guidance, stay weather aware and keep your eye on the skies, everyone!
COVID numbers, budget meetings and a reminder to watch tropical weather during hurricane season in Tink’s Evening Update.
7:30 p.m. 8/3/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 8,999 confirmed (174 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had twenty (20) additional confirmed cases reported since Friday, raising our total number to 641. No additional deaths were reported in the county today.
The GCHD is also reporting that 3,539 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 250. There are currently 5,387 active cases in Galveston County, with 86 county residents hospitalized.
We did not have any updates last week due to our budget workshops. The budget workshops are a week-long process of meeting with the Mayor and City Council to discuss the draft budget that the administration files with the City Council each year. Last year’s budget was a big step forward for the city. We entered into our “contract with the citizens,” in which we undertook numerous improvement projects across the city from the renovation and expansion of our aged wastewater treatment plant to purchasing equipment to addressing staffing issues.
This year’s process was significantly different. With all of the uncertainty from COVID-19 and the economic impacts related to it both on the city and our citizens, and the I-45 expansion projecting hitting our city and impacting our traffic flow, we are taking a very conservative approach this year. We will keep moving forward with what we have started and hope for brighter economic days in the near future.
It is August, so we are keeping a watchful eye on tropical weather patterns across the Atlantic. It appears the recent rains may be letting up for a few days, and we will see some sunny days this week. Keep your eyes on the weather though things can change quickly this time of year.
Be smart, social distance, mask up, follow the guidance, stay weather aware and keep your eye on the skies, everyone!
Two additional COVID-19 deaths in Galveston County today. Get Tink’s update & keep an eye on the Gulf.
6:00 p.m. 7/22/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 7,663 confirmed (184 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had eight (8) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 546. Sadly, two (2) additional deaths were reported in the county today as well. The Galveston County death toll now stands at 68. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the affected families.
The GCHD is also reporting that 2,534 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 171. There are currently 5,061 active cases in Galveston County, with 69 county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital usage today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 71.3 percent, with 67 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 100 percent, with 94 of 94 ICU beds occupied.
We are monitoring two storms that have the potential to impact us. The first is in the Gulf already and has a projected landfall between Thursday night and Saturday morning. This storm is projected to have an 80 percent chance of reaching tropical storm status prior to landfall. It is also projected that the center of the storm will land somewhere south of us. We can expect higher than usual tides, tropic storm level winds (25-35 mph) and approximately three to five inches of rain. We will continue to monitor this storm and provide details via or website and social media platforms.
The second storm we are cautiously watching has not reached the Gulf; but if it stays on the current track, it could. Tropical Storm Gonzalo currently has sustained winds of 50 mph and is gaining strength. We will be keeping a watchful eye on this storm as it moves westward.
Be smart, social distance, mask up, follow the guidance, stay weather aware and keep your eye on the skies, everyone!
We had a significant rain event this morning. Tink explains why we saw flooding.
7:30 p.m. 7/21/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 7,479 confirmed (125 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had sixteen (17) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 538. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll now stands at 66.
The GCHD is also reporting that 2,433 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 169. There are currently 4,890 active cases in Galveston County, with 69 county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital usage today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 62.8 percent, with 59 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients.Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 100 percent, with 94 of 94 ICU beds occupied.
Unfortunately, our free COVID-19 testing scheduled for today in the City of La Marque had to be canceled due to the inclement weather we had this morning. The testing staff stated that the weather would lead to the samples being contaminated and ineffective for testing. We are working diligently to get some additional testing days set up for our residents.
We had a significant rain event this morning, and of course, a lot of complaints to go with it. I want to make sure everyone understands what happened this morning. First, La Marque received more rain than any other city in Galveston County from this storm. All reports are over 5 inches, with some accounts near 7 inches. That is a significant amount of water. It completely charged our stormwater system and had the water backed up at the dike pump station. Once the amount of rainwater hitting the pumps exceeds the rate the pumps can remove it, we start to back up and see some flooding issues in most neighborhoods. Just for reference, the rate of rainfall this morning was equivalent to a 50-year storm. We don’t see rainfall that fast very often.
That leads to our main issue this morning. Our stormwater system, and every other city system, depends on the movement of water over time. When we get extremely heavy rain in a short period of time, there is no place for all the water to go. Our system can handle removing in excess of 15-18 inches of rain a day. Rain at a rate of an inch to an inch and a half per hour will not cause flooding. However, when we get three or more inches in an hour while our system is already fully charged, we run into issues with localized flooding. That’s what happened this morning.
One other point on our stormwater system -the ditches in front of your homes are not intended to run full then completely drain. The elevations across town do not drop far enough for that to ever happen. At the end of a rain event, there will still be water in the ditches until it soaks into the ground in most parts of our city. We do not live on the side of a mountain where we have a significant slope for that water to keep running. We live in a coastal floodplain, and it takes time for millions of gallons of water to flow over miles that may only drop a foot or two in elevation.
Our crews were out the entire time, keeping the water moving the best it can. We continually review drainage issues and are constantly looking for funding opportunities to improve our system. With all the money in the world, we would still have storm specific issues. I hope that helps everyone understand our reality a little more.
Our crews will be keeping drains clean and monitoring concerns throughout the week and weekend. We have more rain coming, so stay weather aware.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
We all either know someone who has been affected by COVID-19 --or know someone who knows someone.
8:00 p.m. 7/16/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 6,627 confirmed (175 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had sixteen (16) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 467. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll now stands at 58.
The GCHD is also reporting that 2,052 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 147. There are currently 4,517 active cases in Galveston County, with 70 county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital usage today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 70.2 percent, with 66 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 100 percent, with 94 of 94 ICU beds occupied.
Our next free testing day in the City of La Marque will be next week. Our next testing date is Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at Queen of Peace, 1224 Cedar Drive, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Registration information is posted on our website at http://cityoflamarque.org/600/COVID-19.
I think it is probably safe to say we all either know someone who has been affected by COVID-19 or know someone who knows someone. I personally know quite a few that have been affected. The one thing I have gathered from talking to all of them is this; COVID-19 affects everyone differently.
I know some that have had next to zero symptoms. I know some who have been “very” sick for 2-3 days then improved quickly. I know some that have been hospitalized. I know some that have been sick for 14 day or more and still feel almost as bad now as they did when they first got it. I know for sure from all of their stories that it treats everyone differently, and until you have it, you don’t know whether you’ll be the “sick for a day” person or the person in ICU. That alone should be enough to ensure that all of us remain diligent to not get it, or not be the reason someone else gets it! I pray for all of the affected to find comfort and to see a quick and complete recovery.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
The city has added new digital services, virtual court and library curb-side pickup
Evening Update with La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson. 7:00 p.m. 7/15/2020
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 6,452 confirmed (145 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had eleven (11) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 451. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 58.
The GCHD is also reporting that 1,969 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 114. There are currently 4,425 active cases in Galveston County, with 70 county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital usage for Galveston County is 60.9 percent, with 56 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 97.8 percent, with 92 of 94 ICU beds occupied.
Our next free testing day in the City of La Marque will be next week. Our next testing date is Tuesday, July 21st at Queen of Peace, 1224 Cedar Drive, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Registration information will be provided in the next few days. Registration information will be posted on our website with all of the other COVID-19 related facts we have shared at
http://cityoflamarque.org/600/COVID-19.
This pandemic has been a very trying experience for all of us. Individually we have had to readjust almost every aspect of our daily lives. Activities we took for granted now are more labored with masks and social distancing, or at least require more effort than they did prior to COVID-19.
As a city, we have been faced with the same type of issues. The provision of services for many of our departments has had to adapt to the social distancing age. Obviously, going into 2020, we were not anticipating the virus or what would be required to meet citizen expectations, but we continue to push forward. We have added many new services from virtual court to curb-side pickup at the library. While it may be difficult to think anything positive has come out of this pandemic, we believe it has given us the opportunity to improve our digital delivery of services and streamline our citizens’ time in their dealings with us. We will continue daily to look at the improvement of our digital delivery system and improvements that will allow you to quickly and easily conduct your business with the city from the safety and security of your own homes.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
Tink’s Evening Update: COVID numbers plus our next free testing day in the City of La Marque.
7:00 p.m. 7/14/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Sorry for missing the last couple of days. Between the Council meeting last night and a few staff members being off, posting the nightly update was impossible. We will get back on track tonight.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 6,307 confirmed (106 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque four (4) additional confirmed case reported today, raising our total number to 440. Sadly, four (4) additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll now stands at 58.
The GCHD is also reporting that 1,866 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 132. There are currently 4,383 active cases in Galveston County, with 71 county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital usage today for Galveston County hospitals is 63.8 percent with 60 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 100 percent, with 94 of 94 ICU beds filled.
We are putting together the details for our next free COVID testing day in the City of La Marque. The spots fill up quickly and pre-registration is strongly encouraged. The testing will be from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, at Queen of Peace Church parking lot. The address is 1224 Cedar Drive. Registration information will be provided in the next few days, shared on social media and posted on our website at
http://cityoflamarque.org/600/COVID-19.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
254 new COVID cases in Galveston County today with 15 additional in La Marque. LM total now 377.
8:15 p.m. 7/8/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 5,063 confirmed (254 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque fifteen (15) additional confirmed case reported today, raising our total number to 377. No additional death was reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 50.
The GCHD is also reporting that 1,391 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 105 (an increase of 9). There are currently 3,622 active cases in Galveston County, with 75 (decrease of 1) county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital usage for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 45.7 percent, with 43 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 100 percent, with 94 of 94 ICU beds occupied.
We still have free masks available for La Marque residents at City Hall. You can go through the utility payment drive-thru and request up to four per household. Bring your driver’s license or a copy of a City of La Marque utility bill to the window, and the ladies will give them to you.
I had one of my staff members mention this week that he noticed folks seem “short” with each other. It makes sense. We have been cooped up, we have had our normal lives turned upside down, our social life restructured, and there is so much uncertainty about how we get to the end of this pandemic. I wish I had an answer for everyone, but unfortunately, none of us know when this will be over. In the meantime, we can make an extra effort to stay positive and be kind to each other. We are all in this together, folks.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
223 County COVID cases today versus approximately 20 a day a month ago. Read more in Tink’s Update.
6:30 p.m. 7/7/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 4,809 confirmed (223 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had fourteen (14) additional confirmed cases reported over the last three days, raising our total number to 362. No deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 50.
The GCHD is also reporting that 1,294 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 96 (an increase of 7).
There are currently 3,465 active cases in Galveston County, with 76 (an increase of 7) county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital usage for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 45.7 percent, with 43 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 100 percent, with 94 of 94 ICU beds occupied.
I saw a few comments in the last couple of days attempting to extrapolate current figures into county-wide numbers. There are several reasons that those extrapolations don’t work. I’ll address a few.
First, as a county, we have tested approximately 20 percent of our total population. That might lead some to believe that extrapolating those aggregate numbers would provide some insight into virus realities across the county. Unfortunately, that does not work. There is zero scientific basis to support the notion that if 20 percent have tested, and you multiply the number of positive cases to date by five, it will give some idea how many people have the virus now.
If you want to extrapolate from any number currently, the only one that you can use is our daily positivity rate. More than half the testing was completed when our daily positivity rate was less than 2 percent. We see daily rates now in the 13-to-15-percent range. This increase in the positivity rate means that many more people are contracting the virus daily than were contracting it initially.
Our daily positivity rate is what is referred to as the doubling effect from community spread. This is the primary reason we had stay-at-home orders before, to keep the rate of transmission lower, and to slow it down. If you take the daily positivity rate and multiply that by the county population, that would provide a more realistic view of what our numbers across Galveston County could look like if we could test every county resident in a single day.
Also, all of those negative tests early on do not mean those people cannot ever contract the virus. People who tested negative in March through June could have contracted the virus since, or could contract the virus today, next week, or sometime down the road. The more positive cases we have, the more likely it is that each of us will have contact with a person that has the virus each day and become infected, thus increasing the spread. Case in point, we had 223 cases today versus approximately 20 a day a month ago. That fact has basis in science.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
Governor’s face covering order, hospital usage & the newest COVID numbers in Tink’s Evening Update
6:00 p.m. 7/6/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 4,586 confirmed (596 new over last three days) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had 69 additional confirmed cases reported over the past three days, raising our total number to 348.
Four (4) additional deaths were reported in the county over the last three days. The Galveston County death toll now stands at 50. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the affected families.
The GCHD is also reporting that 1,173 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 87 (an increase of 8). There are currently 3,363 active cases in Galveston County, with 69 (decrease of 20) county residents hospitalized.
COVID-19 ICU hospital usage today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 39.9 percent, with 29 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 100 percent, with 94 of 94 ICU beds filled.
Despite the holiday, there was still a significant number of test results that became available over the weekend. We can probably expect a reduced number of test results over the next couple of days as testing opportunities were reduced over the holiday.
Galveston County had almost 600 cases in the past three days, with 69 in La Marque. Those are big numbers. Obviously, folks, it is going to take some time and focused effort to get the positivity rates and total daily numbers back down to what they were a month ago.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
272 new COVID cases today. La Marque city parks will close this weekend.
7:45 p.m. 7/1/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 3,565 confirmed (272 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had twenty (20) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 269. Five (5) additional deaths were also reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll now stands at 45. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the affected families.
The GCHD is also reporting that 928 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 73 (an increase of 3). There are currently 2,592 active cases in Galveston County, with 89 (decrease of 16) county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital capacity today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 31.4 percent with 27 ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients. Overall Operational ICU capacity is at 91.4 percent, with 86 of 94 ICU beds occupied.
Today’s number was yet another record for Galveston County. Not so long ago, the thought that we might see a day with 100 cases in a day was not really imaginable. Across Texas, we continue to see record numbers daily. We must do better, and we must all commit to doing our part to control this virus. We saw numerous closures announced today, including Galveston and Galveston County beaches and other public facilities in response to the significant increase in cases.
Accordingly, and out of an abundance of caution and in response to the significant number of COVID-19 cases we have seen in recent days across Galveston County and here in La Marque, we will be closing all city parks this weekend. Closures will begin at sundown on Friday evening and remain in effect until sunrise Monday morning. I struggled with making this decision; however, the health, safety and welfare of our citizens during this pandemic leaves no other choice.
Welcome to the second half of 2020. Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
Tink’s Evening Update: 231 new COVID cases in Galveston County today, 19 new in La Marque
8:15 p.m. 6/30/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 3,293 confirmed (231 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had nineteen (19) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 249. No additional deaths were reported, so the Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD is also reporting that 874 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 70 (an increase of 5).
There are currently 2,379 active cases in Galveston County, with 73 (decrease of 1) county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital capacity today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 41.9 percent.
The City of La Marque will be hosting a second free drive-through testing opportunity tomorrow at the Abundant Life Church. They are requesting that anyone interested in getting the test that day pre-register to save time. For details on registering for the test, please click on the following link http://www.ci.la-marque.tx.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=444 . We are currently working on scheduling additional testing opportunities in the near future and will get information out on those as we get them set up.
Today’s numbers were significantly higher again. I have heard so many stories of people saying, “it was just a small family gathering” or “it was only one time.” Just look at the testing percentages for the last couple of weeks and apply simple math. We are testing at a 15 percent positivity rate almost every day now. When you are out of your home at work, buying groceries or doing whatever, the chances you coming into contact with someone who can spread the virus to you are at least 15 out of every 100 people. Wearing a mask, social distancing, washing hands, sanitizing and taking the recommended precautions reduces your chances of becoming infected to about 1 percent. I like those odds a lot better.
Be smart, social distance, mask up and follow the guidance everyone!
The COVID positivity rate was approximately 15 percent today. We still have a lot of work to do to get this virus and control.
7:00 p.m. 6/29/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 3,062 confirmed (139 new today, 395 since Friday) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had eleven (11) additional confirmed cases reported today (31 since Friday), raising our total number to 230. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD is also reporting that 842 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 65 (an increase of 3). There are currently 2,180 active cases in Galveston County, with 74 (an increase of 38 since Friday) county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital capacity today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 34.4 percent.
The Governor’s executive order reducing restaurants indoor dining capacities from 75 percent to 50 percent began today.
The City of La Marque will be hosting a second free drive-through testing opportunity this Wednesday at the Abundant Life Church. They are requesting that anyone interested in getting the test that day pre-register to save time. For details on registering for the test, please click on the following link
http://www.ci.la-marque.tx.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=444 .
Today’s numbers were lower than what we have seen recently; however, there were fewer total tests completed today. The positivity rate was approximately 15 percent. We still have a lot of work to do to get this virus and control. Until then, be smart, stay home, and mask up everyone!
252 new COVID cases in Galveston County today. La Marque had 23 additional cases.
6:00 p.m. 6/26/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 2667 confirmed (252 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had twenty-three (23) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 199. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD is also reporting that 813 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 62 (an increase of 3). There are currently 1814 active cases in Galveston County, with 36 (an increase of 1) county residents hospitalized. COVID-19 ICU hospital capacity today for Galveston County hospitals was reported at 43%, up 10% (7 new patients) from yesterday.
The Governor issued an executive order today, closing all bars and similar establishments and receiving 51% of their sales from alcohol statewide at noon. He also reduced capacities in restaurants for indoor dining from 75% to 50% beginning Monday, June 19, 2020. All tubing and rafting companies were closed as well.
Today was another record day in Galveston County and La Marque. The 23 cases count today in our city is significantly higher than our previous highest day. I am assuming that this is a direct result of our free testing day we had this week. That day was the first day where our residents had the opportunity to be tested in their city. Having local access to testing helps more of our people get answers, and hopefully will allow them to be better informed and slow the spread in our city. We have another free testing day coming up next Wednesday (July 1). We will provide more details on this testing opportunity on Monday.
Until then, be smart, stay home, and mask up everyone!
The Governor issued an order today stopping elective surgeries in Bexar, Travis, Dallas and Harris Counties in response to the increase of COVID-19 related hospitalizations.
6:45 p.m. 6/25/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 2415 confirmed (149 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had eight (8) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 176. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD is also reporting that 789 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 59 (an increase of 4). There are currently 1490 active cases in Galveston County, with 35 (an increase of 1) hospitalized.
The Governor issued an order today stopping elective surgeries in Bexar, Travis, Dallas and Harris Counties. This order was in response to the recent increase in the number of COVID-19 related hospitalizations. Those numbers, coupled with the record high daily numbers we see across Texas, have significantly increased hospitalizations and generated concern about necessary hospital capacity for new COVID-19 patients.
Speaking of hospital capacity, many of you have asked about the correlation between the increase in cases and hospitalization numbers here in Galveston County. Here are some things to keep in mind. The number of hospitalizations reported by the GCHD daily is not tied to the number of patients in county hospitals. That number is the number of Galveston County residents hospitalized anywhere. They may be here or in Houston or in Austin. Similarly, the number of people here in our local hospitals are not all be from Galveston County.
It can all be confusing. However, the reality is that we have more hospitalized in our local hospitals than the GCHD report states. The difference in the numbers is not intended to be deceptive. It is merely the responsibility of each County Health District to report the number of residents from their county that are hospitalized. The other folks in our hospitals are reported in the county of their residence. I hope that helps clear up the confusion. We were at 33% capacity in our COVID-19 ICU beds in Galveston County today. It is safe to assume that percentage will be increasing with almost 400 new cases in the last two days.
Stay safe, everyone and mask up!
226 new cases today. Stay home when you can! Social distance always! Mask up, everyone!
7:15 p.m. 6/24/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 2266 confirmed (226 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had seventeen (17) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 168. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD is also reporting that 736 of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 54 (an increase of 4). There are currently 1490 active cases in Galveston County, with 34 (no increase) hospitalized.
Folks, this is not only a new single-day highest number, but it is almost double the previous high number. You can find one two day total that eclipses our new single-day record. A new report this morning shows San Antonio (#3) and Austin (#5) as the highest new infection numbers for major cities per day across the entire country. Texas Medical Center is reporting that 97% of their ICU beds are occupied. The list of bad news goes on and on.
Here is the reality… if everyone stayed home when they didn’t need to be out, if everyone practiced social distancing and wore a mask when they did need to be out, these numbers would be nowhere near where they are now. We have seen and heard every excuse from “the flu kills more people annually than is projected from this virus” to ”masks don’t work and can make things worse.” First, I’ll say this. I won’t argue any of those arguments with anyone. I do not formulate my opinions from banter on social media, from personal beliefs or political affiliations. I utilize facts as they are presented. I get those facts from medical experts. I watch ICU capacities. I monitor positivity rates and what has happened in other areas that have been hit hard by this virus. None of the arguments against the big three things that fight this virus (staying home, social distancing and wearing a mask) are valid, NONE. If they were, the CDC would not recommend them and medical experts would not support them.
If you think your participation in any event among a crowd, a house party, a back yard filled cookout or anything else that does not utilize the big three safety measures will keep you safe from this virus, call your doctor and ask their opinion. I promise you; they won’t agree with the social media “experts” either.
If we don’t change our course as a community, as a state and as a nation soon, we are going to look back at this time in history with much sadness in our hearts for what we could have done differently. Stay home when you can! Social distance always! Mask up, everyone! Choose to stay healthy!
With 101 new COVID-19 cases, that puts the testing positivity rate at 12% for today’s report
8:00 p.m. 6/22/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today Galveston County Health District is reporting:
👉 101 new positive #COVID19 cases, county total at 1,968
👉 21 new recoveries, county total at 681
👉 43,829 total Galveston County residents tested
The county has reported nearly 60% of its total case count since June 1. Today’s report includes a testing increase of 824. With 101 new cases, that puts the testing positivity rate at 12% for today’s report.
Do your part to stop the spread of COVID-19:
😷Wear a face covering in public spaces
↔️ Stay at least 6 feet from other people
🖐 Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
You can find more case information in today’s news release: https://www.gchd.org/Home/Components/News/News/3636/65
Interactive charts and graphics: https://www.gchd.org/about-us/news-and-events/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/galveston-county-confirmed-covid-19-cases
Testing information: www.gchd.org/testing GCHD next case update will be Tuesday after 5 p.m.
251 new COVID cases in 2 days, 16.4% positivity rate Saturday
7:45 p.m. 6/20/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 1784 confirmed (142 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had eleven (11) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 134. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD reports that 660 (0 new) of our confirmed cases across Galveston County have recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 50 (no increase). There are currently 1084 (an increase of 142 today) active cases in Galveston County, with 34 (no increase) hospitalized.
Folks, that’s 251 new cases in 2 days, and we had a 16.4% positivity rate today. Both the positivity rate and the number of cases are the highest for a single day in Galveston County.
Our Code Enforcement officers met with 349 of our local businesses today and provided them with a copy of the mask proclamation. Our businesses have been very responsive and very helpful in this process, and we appreciate them taking an active role in keeping our citizens safe. We will continue working with all of our local businesses to get everyone masked up while out in public within the corporate boundaries of the City of La Marque. Again, if you’re a citizen and you need a mask, pull through the drive-thru at City Hall during normal business hours, and we will provide you up to four per household. We all need to work together. Stay aware and stay safe.
Mask up, everyone!
Masks on, La Marque. Mayor Hocking signs proclamation requiring masks in the City of La Marque.
7:00 p.m. 6/20/2020 Get mask news plus COVID-19 numbers from Friday in Tink’s Evening Update.
Friday’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report showed 1642 confirmed (107 new Friday) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had nine (9) additional confirmed cases reported Friday, raising our total number to 123. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD also reported 660 (34 new) of our confirmed cases across Galveston County had recovered Friday. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 50 (an increase of 4). There are currently 942 (an increase of 73 today) active cases in Galveston County, with 34 (no increase) hospitalized.
On Friday, June 19, 2020, the Mayor signed a proclamation stating in part that "all citizens will wear masks and social distance in public within the corporate limits of the City of La Marque." This includes in businesses, in parks, or on the street. If you are outside of your home or your vehicle, you need to wear a mask. It is the slightest of inconveniences in exchange for your safety, the safety of your family and the safety of our city. We still have masks available at city hall for our citizens. All you have to do is drive through the utility payment windows and show your ID with a La Marque address or a La Marque utility bill, and we will give you up to four per household.
A copy of the proclamation is attached. Mask up, everyone!
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows 1535 confirmed COVID-19 cases
7:45 p.m. 6/18/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 1535 confirmed (49 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had seven (7) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 114. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD reports that 626 (8 new) of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 46 (an increase of 1). There are currently 869 (an increase of 39 today) active cases in Galveston County, with 34 (no increase) hospitalized.
As mentioned yesterday, we saw the 21-30-year-old age group jump to the highest number of confirmed cases (284), followed closely by the 31-40-year-old age (249) cases. We have also seen the gap between women (905 cases) and men (630 cases) grow farther apart. The bottom line is that this virus does not discriminate based on age, gender or anything else. It affects everyone. If anyone thought the reopening of Texas meant we had beat this virus, they need to look at the numbers and understand it didn’t.
We have seen businesses in other parts of Galveston County have to shut their doors because they had employees who tested positive. The reopening of Texas was never intended to be a free for all, live-like-before event. The intent was for everyone regardless of age, gender or anything else to be an active participant in keeping everyone else safe.
As a city, we will be looking at implementing some additional requirements related to masks similar to what other cities across Texas are doing. We shouldn’t have to do this, but we will to keep our citizens safe and our businesses open. Everyone must take personal responsibility for their health and have the compassion to care about the health of their co-workers, family, friends and neighbors. We still have masks available at City Hall if any of our citizens need them.
Triple-digit day of new COVID cases plus a significant increase in the number of people hospitalized in Tink’s Evening Update
6:20 p.m. 6/17/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 1486 confirmed (108 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had four (4) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 108. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD reports that 618 (24 new) of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 45 (no increase). There are currently 830 (an increase of 84 today) active cases in Galveston County, with 34 (an increase of 7) hospitalized.
The Galveston County Health District held a press conference this afternoon to discuss the significant increase in confirmed cases. Even more alarming than our first triple-digit day of new cases is the significant increase in the number of people hospitalized. The increase of seven hospitalizations in a single day causes great pause as to what we will see in the next few days and coming weeks.
Thirty-three percent of our total cases in Galveston County since the middle of March have occurred since June 1, 2020. Twenty-five percent of our total cases have occurred in just the last week. That should be enough to make everyone take notice.
One other notable statistic from today was the age averages. The average age of people tested today was 49; however, the average age of people who tested positive was 30. This clearly shows that the overwhelming majority of those testing positive is in the 20-to-30-year-old age group. Numerous instances of the people in this age group not following social distancing guidelines have been documented, from activities in bars to house parties to other gatherings all across the country. While they are currently the least likely to face death from this virus, the people they transport it to may not be. The majority of the younger generation must make a choice to put self-serving motives aside and do what is best for their fellow American citizens if we are going to get this virus under control.
The CDC recommended guidance is still the best we have. Washing your hands, disinfecting surfaces and wearing masks. Mask may not be fashionable, they may be a little inconvenient, or you may feel it is your right not to wear one … but facts are facts and they are still one of the best ways to stop the spread. Mask up, everyone!
Mask up everyone! There were 66 new cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County reported today.
7:20 p.m. 6/16/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District (GCHD) report shows that there are now 1378 confirmed (66 new today) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had seven (7) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 104. No additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40.
The GCHD also reported 592 (35 new) of our confirmed cases across Galveston County recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 46 (an increase of 6). There are currently 746 (an increase of 31 today) active cases in Galveston County, with 27 (no increase) hospitalized.
The Governor held a press conference today discussing rising numbers of COVID-19 cases and hospital capacity across Texas. The GCHD reported today that we are in good shape with hospital bed capacity at this point. I also want to point out that our positivity rate for the last couple of days has been over 13%. That is significantly higher than we have been recording. We need to do all we can to slow this virus back down.
We finalized the planning today for free drive-thru testing opportunity here in La Marque on Monday, June 22, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This testing will be conducted at the Queen of Peace Church parking lot, 1224 Cedar (parking lot entrance on Laurel). You must be pre-registered. Additional details are available in the attached flyer.
We also confirmed a second testing day on July 1 at Abundant Life. More details on that will follow in the next few days. This will be drive-thru testing only also.
Mask up everyone!
La Marque had 21 additional confirmed COVID cases reported since Thursday, raising our total to 97
6:30 p.m. 6/15/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson.
Today’s Galveston County Health District report shows that there are now 1312 confirmed (198 new since Thursday) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had twenty-one (21) additional confirmed cases reported since Thursday, raising our total number to 97. Also, two additional deaths were reported in the county during the same time period. The Galveston County death toll stands at 40. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the affected families.
The GCHD reports that 557 (4 new) of our confirmed cases across Galveston County have recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 40 (no increase). There are currently 715 (an increase of 194 since Thursday) active cases in Galveston County, with 27 (an increase of 2) hospitalized.
I wish I had better news to report. The concern is not merely a significant increase in the number of new cases each day, but also the percentage of tests that are coming back positive. Two months ago our daily rates were under 2 percent. In the last week, we have seen days over 11 percent. As a city, we continue to do all we can to keep our citizens, our elected and appointed officials, and our staff members safe and healthy. We are committed to staying that course for everyone’s benefit.
We are working on setting up a couple of testing dates for drive-thru testing here in the City of La Marque. Our first testing site was confirmed today. More details are coming tomorrow. The information we have at this point is as follows:
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, June 22, 2020
Location: Queen of Peace Church parking lot, 1224 Cedar (parking lot entrance on Laurel)
This will be a drive-through testing site only and will require pre-registration. We will provide additional details on how to register on the city website and social media outlets in the next couple of days.
We are also working to confirm a second testing day on July 1, 2020, at Abundant Life in La Marque. Details on that will follow in the next few days as well. This will also be drive-through testing and will require pre-registration.
Stay safe, everyone!
La Marque had two additional confirmed COVID-19 cases reported today, raising our total number to 76
6:35 p.m. 6/11/2020 Evening Update from La Marque City Manager Tink Jackson
Today’s Galveston County Health District report shows that there are now 1114 confirmed (30 new) cases of COVID-19 in Galveston County. La Marque had two (2) additional confirmed cases reported today, raising our total number to 76. Also, two additional deaths were reported in the county today. The Galveston County death toll stands at 38. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the affected families.
The GCHD is also reporting that 553 (15 new) of our confirmed cases across Galveston County are now recovered. The recovered total for the City of La Marque is 40 (an increase of 3). There are currently 521 (an increase of 13) active cases in Galveston County, with 25 (an increase of 3) hospitalized.
I wish I had better news to report. The number of new cases each day stays between the 25-30 range, and the positive testing rate remains significantly higher than it was prior to reopening our state. This is extra alarming, especially with the knowledge that we have seen some significant mass gatherings in our region over the last 10 days and have yet to see the impact of those. If things continue down the road they have been on, it sure appears this may get worse before it gets better.
As a city, we continue to do all we can to keep our citizens, our elected and appointed officials, and our staff members safe and healthy. We are committed to staying that course for everyone’s benefit. To all of you who are doing your part to help, we say thank you!