Pelicans on parade
by Matthew Ligrani
UHCLIDIAN STAFF

When driving through Seabrook, it is hard not to notice the highly decorated pelicans that reside outside local businesses. The pelicans are part of the Pelican Path Project, a project designed more than two years ago to boost city pride and attract tourism.

Seabrook plays an important part in the Great-Texas Birding Trail because it is home to hundreds of brown and white pelicans throughout the year. The pelican is also the city's mascot.

The city of Seabrook is hosting a Pelican Path Walk April 12. The walk begins at 11 a.m. in front of Emily's Restaurant, 3659 NASA Road One. Participants will visit all the pelicans located on NASA Road One, heading east, and cross Hwy. 146 to end the tour at Ricks Painted Pelican Cafe, 1405 2nd St.

The idea for the Pelican Path Project originated from the Cow Parade, which had successful results in New York and Chicago.

The project was founded by Cheri Smith, vice president of Mayan Management; and Marcy Fryday, marketing director of the Lakewood Yacht Club, in the spring of 2001.

"We needed something fun and positive to give the people of Seabrook," Fryday said. "The pelicans attract tourists and promote our concern for ecotourism."

The artists were carefully selected. Each artist submitted a biography, a copy of their portfolio and a drawing of their proposed design.

Funding for the project came from the city hotel occupancy tax and the city council. Local merchants selected and purchased the pelican of their choice and agreed to keep it well maintained. The pelican's prices range from $1,500 to $2,500.

The first pelican to land in Seabrook was the Commodore, artist Paul Urbanek's pelican pirate sitting in a small boat. The Commodore is located at 1909 Capri, in front of Corrigan Environmental. Following the path, tourist will find Easy Flier, a motorcycle pelican, and Big Bird, a '50s diner cook. Big Bird was painted by artist Ippy Greer and stands in front of the Seabrook Classic Cafe, 2511 NASA Road One.

The project gained national recognition with its colorful ambassador pelican, Sailing into Seabrook. The pelican was sent to Chicago for a critter parade and was displayed at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Sailing into Seabrook was painted by artist Pat Chapin and is currently located at 1405 2nd St.

There are more than 25 pelicans on the path and several other pelicans representing Seabrook in neighboring cities.

"The project is doing exactly what it is intended to do economically Ð promote Seabrook," said Larry Taylor, owner of Emily's Restaurant. "People visit my restaurant to see the Mardi Gras pelican."

Top of Page | Front Page