The leadership of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership presents the Quasar Award annually to an outstanding elected official or business leader who has demonstrated a strong and continual effort to support the business foundations of the greater Bay Area Houston communities. Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush is this year’s outstanding elected official who places the protection of Texas at the forefront of his agenda. BAHEP President Bob Mitchell commented, "Commissioner Bush has become the noteworthy champion of the coastal barrier system. His undiminished advocacy has been instrumental in moving the project forward. Due to his vision, which is grounded in basic economics, he has been named the 2019 recipient of BAHEP’s prestigious 26th Annual Quasar Award.” Upon learning of the honor, Commissioner George P. Bush said, "The lives and security of the people of Texas and the nation must be our highest priority. I am incredibly grateful to the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership for the Quasar Award. I share this honor with many others who have dedicated themselves to protecting the Bay Area Houston region from the destruction caused by storm surge. I have no doubt the efforts of the General Land Office on the creation of a coastal barrier will continue until our goals are accomplished.” Commissioner Bush is steadfast in his opinion that the expense of doing nothing far outweighs the investment to protect and enhance the Texas coast. For his unique leadership and his willingness to promote this critical project for Texas and the nation, Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush is highly deserving of the 2019 Quasar Award. The Quasar Award Banquet will be held on Jan. 25, 2019, at the South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center.