-VOLUME 21 NO. 168 THURSDAY AUGUST 31^ST, 2006-

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A motion made at the Monday night board meeting of the DCDC, may possibly, if the Dayton City Council agrees, result in the resignation of Director Sue Priddy. Information from reliable sources indicates the agreement would entitle Mrs. Priddy to be reimbursed for all lost salary and benefits since her pay was cut in half a few months ago and would also pay her through the end of this year. She would be on administrative leave until then. Additionally, Priddy would get $10,000 to pay her legal fees spent suing her employers. Nothing is final until the Dayton City Council approves it.   

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The Liberty City Council held a workshop Tuesday night to discuss items relating to the $19.4 million budget followed by public hearings on that upcoming fiscal year budget and the tax rate. City Manager Allen Barnes again said the tax rate would not exceed 57.47 cents per $100 of assessed property value, but it could be less than that amount. Council will formally vote on the new tax rate on September 12^th.   

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Team City Liberty yesterday reported the results of the survey conducted earlier this year.  Over all, of the 100 or so responses to questions on topics such as education, quality of life, and how well the community welcomes and supports change, they were all positive. The only criticism of significance was in the area of quality of life, specifically, activities for teens. The results of the survey will be presented to the Liberty City Council as an informational item. A public meeting for more community feedback will be held soon.

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Dayton Fire Chief Terry Boyett said a home on Waring Street in Dayton burned Monday night after being boarded up for nearly a year following a previous fire. However, a family member, whose last name is Greene, was living in the house. He was flown to Memorial Hermann Hospital with respiratory distress. His condition is unknown. When firefighters arrived, the man was crawling out of a back window, smoke billowing from the structure. It is believed the fire started in the kitchen area. The cause is under investigation. There was no electricity.

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Funerals: Louis Robinson, 50, of Cleveland, Services at 11 a.m. Saturday at Neal Funeral Home in Cleveland. ** 

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.56 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 167 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 30^TH, 2006-

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Reports indicate a Liberty County man – 33-year-old James Raymond Underwood has been charged with failing to update his sex offender registration in Enid, Oklahoma. Court documents say Underwood was convicted on two counts of Sexual Assault of a Child in Liberty County in 1993. Though he completed his sentence here, as a sex offender he is required to maintain registration. If convicted of intentionally failing to do so, he faces a maximum 5 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.     

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The potentially devastating fungus known as “soybean rust” has been detected on yet to be harvested soybeans in the Eastgate Area of Liberty County. County Extension Agent Ron Holcomb said his agency is working with the Texas Department of Agriculture to evaluate the threat. He said, so far, the “rust” has not been found on any other soybean crops in the county. Ron Holcomb said “soybean rust” is fairly easy to control if detected early enough. The fungus does not present a health risk if consumed, but if left unchecked, it can result in crop failure. Local soybean producers are receiving instruction from state ag officials in identifying and controlling “soybean rust”.       

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The Dayton City Council met Monday night, and held their second public hearing on the proposed new tax rate of 64.49 cents per $100 dollars.  Council is scheduled to formally consider the new tax rate at their September 11^th meeting. In other action, council spent over an hour in executive session discussing economic development possibilities related to the proposed Global Tubing plant in Dayton. Council took no action on any of those items in open session.

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A new business on the Courthouse Square in Liberty is set to have their official opening this Friday.  Danny Minnehan, owner of The Metropolitan Coffeehouse said they are already serving a variety of specialty coffees and teas. In addition, they will have freshly prepared pastries and cookies, as well as fresh roasted coffee, ground and bean form, for the coffee connoisseur to make at home.

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Funerals: Lorene Moore, 83 of Hardin. Funerals services this morning at 10 AM at Allison Funeral Service – Liberty * Virgil Clarence Holland, 64 of Dayton. Memorial service will be Saturday 2 PM at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home – Dayton.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.70 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 166 TUESDAY AUGUST 29^TH, 2006-

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David Bauman with the Beaumont Office of Social Security said a glitch in the system caused Medicare to mail out a number of checks by accident. The letters accompanying the checks say they are a refund on premiums paid on Medicare Part “D” Prescription coverage.  That was a mistake, and a second letter has been sent out explaining the error and asking folks to simply set aside the money. Medicare will be asking for the money back.  The average amount was $217. For more information call the Beaumont office of Social Security at 409-924-6413.

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Dayton City Manager David Douglas said Finance Director Chris Contreras has been promoted to Assistant City Manager. Contreras joined the City of Dayton in March 2005 overseeing finance, insurance and human resource functions.  Chris Contreras has over 18 years experience in banking and finance, working as a bank officer in operations, compliance, information technology and audit. He holds a BA degree, 3 banking certificates, and has completed the Southwest School of Governmental Finances at Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech University in Lubbock.

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The deadline to register to vote in the November 7^th General Election is Tuesday October 10^th. County Tax Assessor and Voter Registrar Mark McClelland said the date is pushed back from Oct. 7^th –that falls on a Saturday and the 9^th that is Columbus Day. Voter registration forms are available at the Tax Office in the Liberty County Courthouse or call 936-336-8683.   

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One portion of the tax changes provided for in the sweeping school finance reform legislation passed earlier this year in Austin takes effect on Friday September 1^st. House Bill 4 tightens requirements on selling used vehicles. State Representative John Otto said the law requires sellers to provide proof of the vehicle’s market value and sale price to ensure the correct state sales tax is paid. Other provisions of the school reform legislation include a $1 a pack sales tax increase on cigarettes. That goes into effect on January 1^st, 2007.       

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Funerals: Myrtle Inez Campbell, 70 of Liberty. Funeral services will be today at 10 am at Allison Funeral Services in Liberty.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.00 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 165 MONDAY AUGUST 28^TH, 2006-

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A bloody fight between a boyfriend and ex-boyfriend at a Hull convenience store Saturday night got one a chopper ride to Hermann Hospital. Another was treated and released from Beaumont Baptist Hospital. A bystander was treated by Liberty Co. EMS. Sheriff’s Sgt. Pete Vela said Buddy Thompson-34 used a razor knife to slash Kallen Enloe 31, up to 13 times. Thompson was cut with his own knife and store owner Bobby Flowers got a hand cut when he tried to intercede. Thompson claims he acted in self-defense. Sgt. Vela will take the case to  DA Mike Little regarding any possible charges.  

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A body found Friday afternoon in southeast Houston may be Gloria Ryan-50 of Cleveland, missing since August 12^th. Tim Miller, of world famous Equusearch, who found the body said final word will come from medical examiner. The woman’s son Corderral Smith-18 and friend Jason Rizzi, 20, of Humble are in the Liberty County Jail charged with her Capital Murder.   

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The Liberty County Sheriff’s Dept. will offer the Basic Peace Officer Academy for those interested in a police career. Training Captain Billy Tidwell said applicants must be at least 21 years old and a US citizen with a high school diploma or GED, 12 hours of college or 2 yrs. active military is also required. For more information, call the Sheriff’s Department academy for Debbie Manchaca: 936-336-4515.   

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Tx. DPS Corp. Gary Wright, has been promoted to sergeant and moved to Austin after 10 yrs. here. DPS Sgt. Chuck Havard said of 125 troopers taking the latest test, Gary Wright was #1.    

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KSHN begins a new season of broadcasting Liberty and Dayton Football games on our exclusive Split Channel Sports system. listen to either game by turning the stereo radio balance control left for Liberty’s opener at home against Bridge City or right for Dayton hosting West Orange Stark, or go on line at kshn.com.  Both games kick off at 7:30 p.m. Friday.   

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Funerals: Rosa Lee Brown, 91, of Liberty, Services held Saturday. ** Chester Smith Sr., 61 of Liberty, Services at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Trinity Valley Baptist Church in Liberty** Therese  McAlister-25 Dayton-Service 10 Tues.@Pace-Stancil 

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.99ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 164 FRIDAY AUGUST 25^TH, 2006-

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Assistant County Attorney Mark Beausoleil said after legal research, he is of the opinion that Norman Brown serving as both an elected county commissioner and Chairman of the Bayport Cleveland Corridor Alliance was not a conflict of interest. He said it was his understanding the Alliance, a 501-C6 non-profit organization, was to support the development of the corridor and resulting economic development in Liberty County. Republican Candidate Ray Akins raised the issue during Tuesday’s meeting of Liberty County Commissioners. He is running against Norman Brown in the November election for Commissioner Precincnt #4.

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The Liberty County Extension Office is sponsoring a 6-week course on parenting starting September 19^th.  Family Services Agent Alexis Cordova said the “Strengthening Families” course is a research based program aimed at providing parents with the skills needed to build a stronger bond with their children.  The course will be taught in Tarkington, and cost is $10 for the entire course. For more information, or to register call Alexis Cordova at the Liberty County Extension Office, 936 336 4558 or 281 592 0405. The extension for both numbers is 221.

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We reported earlier this week that national restaurant chain “Chili’s” was expected to start construction on the new 4,200 square foot Liberty location on Monday of next week. On Thursday, crews were already on the job clearing trees. The $750,000 restaurant is expected to be open on Jan. 7^th, 2007. ****************************************************

Wednesday’s Monthly Luncheon of the Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce featured Commissioner Pct. 4 Norman Brown.  The chairman of the Alliance for Bayport Cleveland Corridor Development, Norman Brown said the corridor, if developed, would run from the south at the Grand Parkway, north through the western section of Liberty County, connected to Highway 59 near Cleveland.  Norman Brown said the corridor, which is a stand-alone project, not connected to the development of the I-69 Trans-Texas Corridor, would open up vast areas along the proposed route for economic development.

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Funerals: Adelia Hutchins, 89 of Dayton. Services tomorrow at 10 am at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.89ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 163 THURSDAY AUGUST 24^TH, 2006-

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Tuesday morning, Liberty County Commissioners approved a contract with City of Cleveland Emergency Medical Services for coverage of the rural areas surrounding Cleveland.  The contract, for $90,000 a year is an increase, for the first time in many years, of $10,000 per year. In other action, Commissioners authorized the submission of an application for $500,000 in grant funds through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. If the county were awarded the money, it would be used to help fund repairs to homes damaged in Liberty County by last September’s Hurricane Rita.

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City of Liberty Water Department crews spent nearly 6 hours trying to fix a broken 6 inch water line between Main St. and Magnolia on Kipling yesterday.  Water Department Supervisor Sammy Hood said it was likely the shifting of dry ground that caused the break.  Kipling and Scout Streets were both closed for several hours as work crews, up to their eyes in water and mud worked to repair the line.

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Cleveland Fire Chief Steve Wheeler said lightening is probably the culprit in a fire Tuesday night at the Cleveland Senior Center. He said witnesses reported hearing a loud boom just before 10 pm, followed shortly afterwards smoke seen coming from the roof.  The Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department, with assistance from Tarkington and Splendora Fire Departments was able to contain the blaze mostly in the attic.  Chief Wheeler said while the interior damage is limited, the roof is a total loss.

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The Liberty Panthers were in their first football scrimmage of the 2006 season last week at Santa Fe and Head Coach Jeff Stewart said he was well pleased with his team’s performance. He said this was probably Liberty’s best first season scrimmage in several years. Liberty’s next scrimmage is against Orangefield at home tomorrow night with varsity taking the field at 7 p.m. Dayton scrimmages Montgomery tonight at home at 6:30 while Hull-Daisetta’s scrimmage is against New Waverly, also at home at 7:30 tonight. Hardin is at Sabine Pass for a 6 p.m. scrimmage tomorrow night.    

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Funerals: Mary Caves Wilborn, 86 of Anahuac. Services today at 2 pm at First Baptist Church in Anahuac.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.88 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 162 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 23^RD, 2006-

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John DuBois, President of Global Tubing, said the decision on where to locate the manufacturing facility for their highly specialized tubing for the oil and gas industry should come in the next 60 to 90 days.  Both Liberty County Commissioners and the Dayton City Council have expressed willingness to work with Global Tubing with incentive packages should they locate in the Dayton area. John DuBois said they would be approaching the Dayton Community Development Corporation in September for grant assistance. 

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Chambers Liberty Co. Navigation District Economic Development Director Laura Wilson said they are in the early stages of development for a Vocational Trade Facility for students in Liberty County.  She said the need for trained, highly skilled workers is growing in this area, and they along with Dayton ISD are exploring the idea of a facility to train young people for those specialized, high paying jobs.

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Chili’s, the national restaurant chain, has paid for their building permit with the City of Liberty, and start date for construction on the 4,215 square foot building is set for next Monday by Jerry Kechel Building of Spring, Texas.  Yesterday, Liberty City Electric crews were out moving poles at the site on the corner of North Main Street and the 146 by-pass.  The popular family restaurant will be on land purchased from the huge new Wal-Mart Super Center. Planned opening date for the new Chili’s restaurant in Liberty is January 7^th, 2007. Expect dirt to begin flying on or about this coming Monday.

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The open house for the new location of the Liberty County Republican Party yesterday was well attended by local, state and federal republicans.  Representatives from the offices of John Cornyn, Tommy Williams, and Ted Poe were in attendance. Representative John Otto, Congressman Kevin Brady and State Republican Party Executive Committee Member, Michael Truncale was also there. The new office is on Sam Houston St. in Liberty, next to Cookies Restaurant.  The office will be open Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

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Funerals: Alice M. Seaberg, 88 of Crosby. Services Thursday 10 am at United Methodist Church of Crosby

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.65 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 162 TUESDAY AUGUST 22^ND, 2006-

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Numerous media reports indicate Allstate Texas Lloyds- the second biggest home insurer in Texas- will stop offering coverage to some 26,000 customers living in wood frame, stucco houses or mobile homes as of Dec. 3^rd. Liberty County is included in what is called this second tier group. Those are counties located one county away from the coast. Allstate officials have reportedly reached a deal to sell their policies to Dallas-based Stonington Lloyds, but homeowner’s coverage is still not guaranteed to current Allstate policyholders.  

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The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a free workshop designed to help business owners and managers improve the all-important customer service issue tomorrow at 5 p.m. in the Community Room at 1^st Liberty National Bank. Program Facilitator Steve Seay will show a direct link between improved customer service and increased revenue. For more information, call the Chamber Office at 936-336-5736.

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The Dayton City Council meets on Thursday night at 7 this week and one of the major agenda items is the public hearing on the proposed new tax rate. Back on August 6^th, Council took their first vote on a preliminary rate of 64.49 cents per $100 of assessed property value. A second public hearing is set for Monday August 28^th. City Manager David Douglas said Council would officially adopt the new rate on September 11^th.    

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Entries are now being accepted for the 2006 TVE Rodeo Pageant on October 21^st for kids ages 3 through 13. Pageant Chair Tonya Neuman said boys and girls would be judged in four age groups. All winners receive a buckle and trophy and ride in the TVE Parade of Champions. Cost is $30 or $45 if your child also enters the Photogenic Contest. Entry forms are available at Baskins in Liberty, All About Fun in Dayton, Cannon’s Farm and Ranch in Cleveland, Maci Feed and Supply in Hardin or on line at the TVE web site. Go to kshn.com and click on “upcoming “ events.     

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Funerals: Bertha Mae Fregia, 84, of Moss Hill, Services at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Wilderness Church in Raywood. ** Alice M. Seaberg, 88, of Crosby, Services at 10 a.m. Thursday at 1^st United Methodist Church of Crosby. ** 

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.65 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 161 MONDAY AUGUST 21^ST, 2006-

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At a hearing last Thursday, Pct #3 JP Phil Fitzgerald, standing in for JP #6 Fred Dishongh, ordered 222 of the 285 Pit Bull dogs seized at the Tarkington Prairie home of murder victim Thomas Weigner destroyed. The animals were taken the week after Weigner was killed by 3 gunmen. Witnesses concluded the dogs were for illegal fighting and living in unhealthy conditions. That prompted Judge Fitzgerald to order dogs over 6 months old  put to sleep. Experts testified Pit Bulls are a danger to humans and cannot be rehabilitated if over 6 mos. old. The 63-surviving Pit Bull puppies will be sold at auction. Those not sold will be adopted out. The dead man’s family may appeal the sale but a $10,000 bond is required. . There’s no appeal to the euthanasia order.       

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Funeral Services are today at 10 for retired Liberty Fire Chief Ben E. Pickett. He died Friday morning. In addition to a Fire Chief’s Funeral Ceremony, flags are flown at half-staff on City Buildings to honor the veteran firefighter. Ben Pickett was 86. 

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The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon is Wednesday at noon at Immaculate Conception  Church’s Marion Hall. Speaker is Precinct #4 Liberty Co.Comm. Norman Brown. He will talk about the Bayport-Cleveland Corridor development and its impact on the economy. Make your reservations by calling the Chamber at 936-336-5736.

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The 2007 Liberty High School Senior Class is sponsoring “Knowledge for College” an informational meeting for junior and seniors preparing for college, tomorrow night at 6:30 in the LHS Cafeteria. Reps. from Lee College, Sam Houston State,  Lamar, Kingwood Community College, University of Houston and the Armed Services will answer questions. Tickets are $6 for dinner. Call 936-336-8156 for more information.       

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Funerals: Ben Pickett, Sr., 86, Liberty, Serv. 10 a.m. today at Immaculate Conception- Liberty. ** Elna Fay Stalker 78, of Cleveland, Serv. 3 today- Neal Funeral- Cleveland. **Lillian B. Parker 83, Serv. 11 today @ Romayor Baptist  (SFH) **Hugh “Doc” Stayton 92. Serv. Tues. @ 10 Sterling Funeral-Dayton **Elwee Lawson Smith 88, Serv. Tues. @ 2 Allison Funeral Serv **Roberta ”Tom” French 89, Serv. Tues. 11 at First Methodist–Liberty.   

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.62 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 160 FRIDAY AUGUST 18^TH, 2006-

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First day enrollment in the Liberty ISD is 2,233 students, down just a bit from 2,361 last year. Hull-Daisetta had 584 students in all grades on the first day and Hardin Schools show attendance at 1,221. Cleveland ISD showed an increase of 208 over a year ago with 3,404 students. Devers ISD first day attendance was 143, down by six from 2005. The Dayton Schools show enrollment at 4,670 on the first day of school, a slight drop from last year’s first day figures that totaled 4,681.  

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In spite of other power companies’ worries over the increased demand for electricity, Entergy’s Susan Gilley said the company that supplies Liberty and surrounding areas with power is not suffering any real strain on the ability to supply their customers. Mrs. Gilley said demand is up due to the current heat wave, but there is no danger of Entergy resorting to rolling blackouts to help meet that demand.   

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For the first time in three years, the Chambers County Jail has been given a passing grade by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards. Sheriff Joe LaRive said the facility passed last week’s state inspection after more than $1 million in repairs to the jail’s plumbing, electrical wiring, roof and other problem areas. It was May 2005 when the Chambers County Jail was rated one of the poorest maintained jails in the state. State inspectors credited the extensive remodeling with bringing the jail into compliance.    

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This year’s TVE Baby Parade is set for Saturday October 14^th at 10 a.m. in downtown Liberty. Children from infancy through kindergarten age will be awarded prizes in the walking, riding, western riding, small float and large float divisions. This year’s parade theme is “When I Grow Up…” The entry fee is $10. Entry forms are available at Liberty City Hall or at “It’s All About You’ Hair Salon, just off Main on Marshall St. in Liberty. You can also download entry forms on line by going to kshn.com and clicking on “organizations”. The deadline for Baby Parade entries is Wednesday October 11^th.

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Funerals: Cecil Edwards Nichols, 73 of Hull. Services 10 a.m. Saturday at Allison Funeral Service - Liberty. ** Vernon Oliver Hollingsworth, 85, formerly of Liberty, Services at 10 a.m. tomorrow at 1^st Baptist Church of Wharton, TX. **            

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.57 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 159 THURSDAY AUGUST 17^TH, 2006-

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Tuesday night, Liberty School Trustees approved the budget for the 2006-2007 school year at $20,411,318 down from last year’s budget which was just over $33.5 million and set the tax rate at 1.5138 cents per $100 of assessed value.  The tax rate went down from last year’s rate of 1.6713, however, appraisals are up, so it will affect property taxes differently.  In other discussion, board members heard from transportation director Robert Ward on the cost of outfitting buses with seatbelts. He said his research indicated the safest type of belts those with a 3-point hitch would cost between $9 and $10 thousand per bus. 

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Moving day is drawing near for the City of Liberty’s 17,000 square foot municipal office building. City Manager Allen Barnes since getting the furniture for the new Fire and EMS Station from inmate factories of the TDCJ turned out to be a big cost-saver, the city hall furniture will also be manufactured by the prison system. Inmates should start moving in the furniture during the first week in September.  

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Since the Liberty County Hospital District began service several months ago, the Board of Directors has been looking for a permanent home. Board President Bruce Stratton said renovations are underway to the building at the corner of Fannin and Webster -formerly Elliot’s Chiropractic Clinic – to get it ready for the hospital district offices. In the meantime, the hospital district is temporarily at 1914 Myrtle off Main Street in Liberty. For more information on qualifying for the services the hospital district provides call 936-336-7400.  

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Earlier this month St. Anthony Cathedral in Beaumont, which will reach its 100^th birthday in 2007, was granted the status of “Minor Basilica” by Pope Benedict. Father David Edwards of Liberty’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church said that means the Vatican has recognized the artistic and historical significance of St. Anthony’s as well as the importance it plays in the ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Beaumont. You can learn more on line at www.dioceseofbmt.org. 

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Life Share Blood Center will hold a platelet drive Saturday at 1^st Liberty National Bank in Liberty from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To make an appointment, call 936-298-2689.   

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.49 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 158 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 16^TH, 2006-

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The Cleveland Police Department is investigating the disappearance of 50 year old Gloria Faye Ryan.  Police say she was reported missing by her daughter on Aug 13^th. Monday, Cleveland Police searched the woman’s home and found what Police Chief Ike Hines described as evidence of foul play.  Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Gloria Faye Ryan is asked to call the Cleveland Police Department at 1-281- 592-2621.

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The Hardin-Moss Hill Area Crime Watch elected new officers Monday night.  Hardin Businessman Russell Fairchild was elected as the new president, Milton Fregia- vice President. Laurie Long was elected Secretary – Treasurer, however, she notified new President Fairchild important personal obligations would not allow her to serve. Russell Fairchild said the crime watch executive committee will soon announce their choice to serve in that capacity. Eddie Shauberger, outgoing President, presided over his final meeting Monday night.

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Though, the next open enrollment for prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D isn’t until November, there are circumstances under which those who qualify can still sign up. Those turning 65 have their own window of opportunity to enroll and those not signed up who are notified of changes to their own prescription coverage can also be given a special enrollment period. For more information, call the Beaumont Office of Social Security at 409-924-6413. Social Security Representatives are also at the Liberty Library from 10 to 3 on the second Wednesday of each month. 

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Liberty Elementary School “Meet the Teacher Night” is from 6 to 7 p.m. tomorrow starting in the cafeteria. All parents are invited to visit their child’s classrooms and meet their teachers. For more information, call 936-336-6077.

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Funerals: Cecil Sanders, 74 of Mont Belvieu. Services today at 10 am at Sterling Funeral Home in Dayton * James E. Lunceford, 81 of Mineola, formerly of Liberty. Funeral Services 11 am Tomorrow at Hilliard Funeral Home in Tyler * James Clyde Smith, 63 of Hardin. Services tomorrow at 10 am at Allison Funeral Home in Liberty.  

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.69 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 157 TUESDAY AUGUST 15^TH, 2006-

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Susan Gilley, spokesperson with Entergy Texas, said with the increasing price of copper, wire theft from electrical substations across the country are on the rise. She said they have had thefts at several of their facilities, including in Winnie.  Thieves are breaking into Entergy substations and services centers stealing copper from trucks, storage areas, and in some cases, energized lines.  Susan Gilley said that is very dangerous for employees, contractors and the thieves.  Anyone with information on these types of thefts is asked to call local law enforcement or the Entergy Ethics Hotline at 1-888-257-3844.

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Chambers County Sheriff Joe LaRive said his department is investigating the death of 20 year old, Alejandra Quintanilla, of Houston. Her body was found last Thursday on FM 565 less then a mile north of I-10.  Sheriff LaRive said an autopsy has been completed, finding no evidence of physical trauma, they are awaiting the results of the toxicology report.  He said they are trying to document the young woman’s last 24 hours and are asking anyone with information to call either the Chambers County Sheriffs Department at 409 267 8331 or Chambers County Crime Stoppers, 409 267 T-I-P-S.

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With the formation of the Liberty County Hospital District, those living within the district who meet certain qualifications, can receive health care from approved providers free of charge. However, they first must be signed up for the program and qualified.  The qualifications are based on income according to the federal poverty guidelines, assets, residency within the district and citizenship. Those who feel they or their family may qualify for the healthcare coverage program through the district are urged to go to the office on Myrtle Street in Liberty to sign up.  Once approved, members can avail themselves of medical care through many local health care providers, and receive up to 3 prescriptions each month free of charge.

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The Liberty Library’s Story-time starts back tomorrow at 10 am for kids age 3-5 years old. Every Wednesday, kids are invited for a story and craft activity. The Babies and Books program is due to resume Thursday, August 24^th also at 10 am. This reading experience is for kids 1 – 2 years, and their parents or guardians. For more information on either program, call 336 8901.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.69 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 156 MONDAY AUGUST 14^TH, 2006-

Misinformation on a Lower Trinity Groundwater Conservation Dist. is being distributed, most recently, in a flyer. However, Robert Mace with the Texas Water Board insists, despite these claims, there will be no “maintenance fee” assessed to property if the district passes. Tom Stover, attorney for the water district, said only three types of fees are allowed if the district is approved Nov. 7^th. They are a production fee not to exceed a nickel per 1,000 gals, a one-time permit fee for a new well, and a fee for water sold out of the groundwater district. There’s no use fee for ag use, of any kind, or for a well producing under 25,000 gals. a day. Typical use is less than 10,000 gallons per month.       

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Retired Liberty Fire Chief Ben Pickett, 86, is in Hospice care  after a stroke last Thursday. He’s alert and talking to family. 

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Bridgehaven Children’s Advocacy Ctr and volunteers in Liberty and Chambers Counties want to establish a Court Appointed Special Advocate, or “CASA”, Program. It would allow trained personnel to work on behalf of abused and neglected children. Steering Committee volunteer chair, Trish Jones, said kids in CPS custody in Liberty County nearly doubled in 3-years. For more information, call 281-622-6674.  

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On Thursday, Charles McGuire, 55, Liberty council member, came by air ambulance from Minnesota to Houston Hermann. He was injured when his new plane crashed during a training flight Aug.4^th. In flight technicians determined, besides ankle and rib fractures he had bleeding in his lungs. One lung collapsed. The lung problem was repaired in Houston and he is much improved but more ankle and leg surgery may be done Tuesday. His brother Rick says, Charles may be home in a week. 

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Dayton Bronco Season Football Tickets go on sale today for last year’s season ticket holders. Till this Friday, last year’s Bronco ticket holders can buy the same seats for this season. Regular season ticket sales for “first time buyers” starts Monday Aug. 21^st. Preseason tickets are $5 each or $25 for the package, at the DISD Administration Offices. General admission are $6 each.     

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FUNERALS: Michael Ray Tyler–Liberty. Serv. 10:30 today @ Heights Bapt. Ch (AFS)**Jean Ann Beard – Liberty, Serv. today at 10@ Allison Funeral Serv.**Mildred Cleaver–Dayton. Services were Sunday (PSFH)  

LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.64 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 155 FRIDAY AUGUST 11^TH, 2006-

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According to Liberty City Manager Allen Barnes, SNF Holding Company, the entity looking at the old National Pipe and Tube building in Liberty as a location for a plant to produce water-soluble industrial use polymer, has hit another snag. Environmental requirements for the company to operate here, according to Barnes, would be cost prohibitive, requiring the company put in what are called “air scrubbers”. While the company is still talking with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, they have stopped negotiations for purchase of the 487,000 square foot building, and have begun looking at other sites. 

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The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee announced Kendall Johnson-Tarkington High School is this years recipient of the $1,000 Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship. Ms. Johnson plans to attend Texas A & M University. All Liberty County High Schools are awarded a scholarship on a rotating basis, and next years recipient will be from Cleveland.

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A 21 year old Votaw man, Mark Moore, is dead following a 1 vehicle accident on FM 787 about 2 miles west of Rye. DPS Trooper Eric Hauk said the young man, who had recently finished a 14-hour overnight shift, went off the road and into a tree.  Trooper Hauk said Moore was traveling at a high rate of speed, but fatigue may have been a contributing factor.

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James Earl Cutsinger of Crosby was found guilty Wednesday and given a life sentence for the 2004 shooting death of Daniel Kohlhofer. The Boliver Peninsula businessman’s truck was found abandoned in Liberty County just day’s following his death. The now convicted killer was caught in Mont Belvieu where he was staying in a motel under an assumed name.

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The Liberty County YMCA is offering after school programs for kids age 6-12.  The program includes homework help, outdoor and indoor activities, arts and crafts and adult supervision from the time school is dismissed until 6:30 pm.  For more information call the Liberty County “Y” at 936 257 2888. 

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FUNERALS: Bennie C. Franklin, 63 of Crosby. Services Saturday at noon at the Rock of Ages Church in Crosby.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.91 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 154 THURSDAY AUGUST 10^TH, 2006-

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Students inside the city limits of Dayton should take note of a change in bus routes. According to Steve Bell, Transportation Director, Bus 1, that was last year a shuttle bus between campuses, will this year go up Wearing Street and pick up students. Kids will need to walk to the end of their road where it meets Wearing, and Bus 1 will pick them up there. Bus 1 will then cross to the south side of Hwy 90 and work the block of Young, Colbert and Houston, also the block of Luke, Prater and Ford. Steve Bell said the district was able to designate those areas as hazardous routes, which then allowed them to alter slightly the way children could be transported to the various campuses. Call the DISD Bus Barn at 258 7993 for more info.

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The Liberty City Council met Tuesday and gave preliminary approval of a maximum tax rate of 57.47 cents per $100 of appraised value. City Manager Allen Barnes said he would most likely recommend a lower tax rate when council formally votes on the matter in September. Council set a public hearing on the budget and tax rate for Tuesday August 29^th at 6 p.m. 

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Dayton Bronco Season Football Tickets go on sale for last year’s season ticket holders Monday August 14^th through Friday August 18^th allowing them to buy the same seats for the 2006 season. Regular season tickets for first time buyers will be available starting Monday August 21^st. Tickets are $5 each or $25 for Season Package at the DISD Administration Building from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 4 p.m. 

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The H-GAC and TxDot will sponsor two public meetings in Liberty County on Monday. The purpose of the meeting is to get public input on transportation issues in this area, especially in regards to elderly, disabled and low-income residents. The first meeting is at 11 a.m. Monday at Cleveland City Hall, the second is at 3 p.m. at the Liberty County Courthouse, 2^nd floor courtroom. The public is encouraged to attend either meeting.   

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FUNERALS: Louise Bell Davis, 89 of Raywood. Services at 11 am Saturday at Hardin United Pentecostal Church. ** Vera Knight, 63, of Spring Services were Wednesday. ** Bennie Franklin, 63, of Crosby, Services pending at Wells Funeral Service in Liberty. 

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.14 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 153 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 9^TH, 2006-

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Liberty County Commissioners voted yesterday to lower the proposed tax rate by ½ a cent from last year’s rate. The proposed rate is 56.23 cents per $100 of assessed value. Also during yesterdays meeting, Commissioners voted to pay $31,725 as their portion of the TxDot project to straighten out and widen the area of FM 1409 commonly known as Dead Man’s Curve. That figures is a lesser amount then originally thought, having dropped 25 % off of the required 10%.  The public hearings on the proposed tax rate will be Tuesday August 22^nd and 29^th at 8:30 AM in Commissioners courtroom on the 2^nd floor of the Liberty County Courthouse. 

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Liberty Police are investigating the death of Anna Mae Jackson, 44, living at the Shenandoah Apartments at the corner of Hawthorne and Edgewood.  Justice of the Peace Pct. 1 Bobby Rader held an inquest and ordered an autopsy. The preliminary ruling by Judge Rader is a drug overdose.

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Dayton City Council met Monday night, and voted unanimously to name Randy Gunter as their new city attorney.  He succeeds Neal Iverson, who was discharged in a controversial 3-2 vote back on June 5^th. He is in partnership with Dayton Attorney Mike Fielder since earning his law degree from the University of Houston in 2000.  Randy has been serving as acting city attorney for the past couple of months.

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According to Rick McGuire, his brother Charles McGuire, who was injured Saturday in a plane crash in Wisconsin, has improved significantly. He was in Wisconsin at the end of a week-long training session on a newly purchased high performance aircraft. He, his son, Lloyd and the instructor were practicing low altitude requirements when the plane lost power.  It dropped about 500 feet and crashed. The instructor and McGuires son had minor injuries.  Charles, who was the pilot, suffered a severe ankle fracture plus 10 fractured ribs. Arrangements are being made for an ambulance type airplane to bring the local business executive to a Houston hospital.  That will probably happen this Friday.

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FUNERALS: Bennie Franklin, 63 of Crosby. Services pending at Wells Funeral Service of Liberty. 

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.41 ASL

VOLUME 21 NO. 152 TUESDAY AUGUST 8^TH, 2006-

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Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur said a 9 year old boy was shot in the face with a 22 caliber rifle yesterday afternoon about 1:30 PM, on CR. 48614 off of FM 1413 in the Whitewing Subdivision. According to Sheriff Arthur, 4 children, one 6 year old girl, two 9 year old boys, and a 13 year old boy, were playing at the home unsupervised when they found the gun. One of the boys, not knowing the gun was loaded, or thinking it didn’t work, pointed the weapon at the other boy and pulled the trigger.  It was the next door neighbor boy that was shot.  He was taken by Life Flight Air Ambulance to Memorial Hermann Hospital, said to be in very serious condition. Sheriff Arthur said investigators would refer evidence to the District Attorney’s Office in reference to juveniles having access to firearms.

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The Liberty County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from the Houston SPCA, and Harris County Constable Pct. #6, seized roughly 350 Pit Bull dogs, some puppies, at the residence of murder victim, Thomas Weigner, of Tarkington Prairie. Sheriff Greg Arthur said were being housed in poor conditions, and evidence indicates they were being bred for illegal dog fighting.  

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With the peak of Hurricane Season still ahead, FEMA reminds residents to take action when