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-VOLUME 22 NO. 017 THURSDAY JANUARY 25TH, 2007- **************************************************** Former Hardin Middle School teacher, Sharisa Sprinkle, who was indicted on 2 charges of Sexual Assault, has pled guilty and been sentenced. District Attorney Mike Little said Ms. Sprinkle was sentenced to 8 years of what is called deferred adjudicated probation, a $1,500 fine, $568 in court costs, and 240 hours of community service. Ms. Sprinkle will also be required to surrender her teaching certificate and to resister as a convicted sex offender for the rest of her life. Miki Jo Taylor, substitute teacher at Hull Daisetta, was indicted on a similar charge, and is awaiting trial. **************************************************** David Bauman with the Beaumont Office of Social Security said now is the time for folks receiving retirement benefits, who have not reached full retirement age to make an earnings statement for 2007. He said under estimating what a person will make could leave them owing money to Social Security, while over estimating means all the benefits due would not be paid. The maximum allowed income for 2007 with out penalty is $12,960 for recipients under full retirement age. Call the Beaumont Office for more information at 409 924 6413 **************************************************** George Douglas “Doug” Richardson, the Hull man who pled guilty to Intoxication Manslaughter in the deaths of 3 small children, is to be sentenced next month. It was in June 2005 when Richardson crashed his truck into a properly parked, disabled vehicle on the side of Hwy. 146 south in Dayton. Killed in that wreck were infant twin sisters Mariah and Miranda Murphy and their 19-month-old brother William. District Attorney Mike Little said Richardson could get from 2 – 20 years in prison on each of the three charges. **************************************************** A NASA Astronaut is coming to Liberty to speak in April as a Trivium club fund raiser to benefit the Library Expansion Program. Dr. Bernard Harris, Jr. M.D.p has logged 438 hours in space and traveled over 7.2 million miles. He is described as a dynamic and interesting speaker. The event, called “Reach for the Stars” will be at the totally remodeled auditorium behind the new San Jacinto Elementary School in Liberty. The astronaut’s visit is set for April 24th at 7:00 PM. This is pretty far in advance, but we wanted to let you know his appearance is confirmed. Tickets will be $15 for adults and $10 for students. **************************************************** *LAKE RELEASE: 31,700 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 27.29 ASL*
-VOLUME 22 NO. 016 WEDNESDAY JANUARY 24TH, 2007- **************************************************** For the first time, travelers flying to Mexico or Canada now require a U.S. passport. Both the Liberty and Dayton post offices offer passport services during their regular hours. In addition, the Dayton post office is sponsoring an after hours passport fair tomorrow and Tuesday of next week. Dayton Postmaster Angie Hayes said anyone who wants to apply for an U.S. passport could do so at the post office after regular business hours on those two days from 5 PM to 8 PM. **************************************************** Liberty County Commissioners met in special session yesterday, and Corrections Corporation of America again came to the attention of commissioners, in a round about way. One item on the agenda included paying an invoice for over $5500.00 to Tekplan Solutions for jail maintenance. A little research and it was determined the company had in fact billed the county but their contract was with CCA. Commissioners did not include that item in the approved payments. In other action, Commissioners appointed Judge Phil Fitzgerald as the county’s representative on the Houston Galveston Area Council General Assembly. Lee Groce said a year on the General Assembly Board would be a good crash course for the newly elected judge to thoroughly understand H-GAC and what it does. **************************************************** The latest scam making the rounds involves a letter informing the recipient they have won a lottery drawing and includes a bogus check for thousands of dollars. According to FLNB President Paul Henry, once a person deposits the check, then the crooks want a check for a little less than the one they sent. The thieves get a good check, the check they sent bounces for insufficient funds and the victim is left with the fallout. Any letter and check that seem too good to be true, probably is. **************************************************** Tickets are now sold out for tomorrow night’s Dayton Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet. Keynote speaker will be Texas Governor Rick Perry. **************************************************** Funerals: Martha McMillen Schroeder, 72 of Houston, formerly of Liberty. A funeral mass will be Thursday 10 AM at St. Christopher’s Catholic Church in Houston. ** Carl Davis Jr., 82, of Liberty, Services at 2 p.m. Friday at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton. ************************************************** *LAKE RELEASE: 37,200 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 27.38 ASL*
-VOLUME 22 NO. 015 TUESDAY JANUARY 23RD, 2007- **************************************************** Its late, about 60 years late, but this Saturday, Buster Bricker will finally receive the Distinguished Flying Cross he earned in World War II. Buster Bricker flew 50 combat missions, in which all but four of his squadron was wiped out. A ceremony presenting the WW-II veteran with this honor will be held Saturday at 2 PM, weather deciding, either at the new Daniel Pavilion or in the Liberty Center at City Hall. 3 Star General Dennis Larson of Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio will present the DFC during the ceremony. The public is cordially invited to attend this ceremony. **************************************************** An armed robber took $25 in cash at gun point from a Wal- Mart Super Center customer Sunday. Shortly after midnight Liberty Police got a call from a man who said the suspect asked him for help rolling up a stuck window because it was raining. The Liberty man approached the car, described as a tan Cadillac. The thief displayed a gun and demanded his billfold, which the victim surrendered. The suspect is a white male, thought to be in his late 20’s, clean shaven, with dirty blond hair, wearing a tan jacket with blue leather sleeves. If you have any information contact the Liberty Police Department at 336 5666. **************************************************** The Houston Galveston Area Council received a $7 million grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to fund a Hurricane Rita restoration program. Designed to help low to moderate income home owners not eligible for help from FEMA or private insurance with financial assistance to repair damages caused by Hurricane Rita in 2005. H-GAC representatives will be in Chambers County Tuesday January 30th at Whites Park in Hankamer from 9 AM – 2 PM. For more information go to www.kshn.com the link is on our front page or call, 1 877 442 2777. **************************************************** Chambers Co. Sheriff’s Department is investigating the apparent murder of 21 year old Hector Cornejo. His body was found on Kendall in Baytown Saturday. Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 409 267 8331 or Chambers Co. Crime stoppers at 409 267 TIPS. **************************************************** Funerals: Barbara Ann Berotte Hubert, 50 of Dayton. Services will be Wednesday at 11 AM at St. Miles Baptist Church in Ames * *LAKE RELEASE: 37,200 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 27.56 ASL*
-VOLUME 22 NO. 014 MONDAY JANUARY 22ND, 2007- *************************************************** Barbara Berotte, 50, of Dayton died last Thursday at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston of injures she suffered when a building collapsed on Jan. 10th. Ms. Berotte and her brother John were at work demolishing an old outbuilding when the structure collapsed, trapping her beneath the building’s roof. Heroic efforts by Dayton Fire and Liberty Co. EMS medics freed her and restored her heartbeat. She was airlifted to the Houston hospital and remained critical until her death. **************************************************** Liberty Co. Judge Phil Fitzgerald said Liberty Co. is one of several in Southeast Texas who can apply for low-interest disaster relief loans from the Small Business Administration. Funds are available for homeowners, renters, businesses and non-profits who had property damage during the severe storms and flood back in October. Applications are being accepted at the Hardin County Courthouse in Kountze, 300 Monroe Street, 8 to 5 Mon. - Fri. **************************************************** Joe Knight, 85, Dayton is now in critical, but stable, condition after a two-car wreck Friday on FM 1960. His wife, Mary Moore Knight, 82, has a pelvis fracture not requiring surgery, according to their son. Police say the well-known retired Dayton man pulled from a driveway and into the path of Angela Cardiff-27 of Dayton. She was hurt but not as badly as Mr. & Mrs. Knight. Their injuries were more serious than medics thought at roadside but were airlifted to Memorial Hermann-Houston to be safe. **************************************************** The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber’s Monthly Luncheon is Wednesday at noon at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church’s Marian Hall. It features a panel of attorneys led by Ed Pickett and Barbara Norwood with various topics and taking questions from attendees. Lunch: Fajitas from Casa Don Boni Rest. in Liberty for $8 a plate. Reservations: 936-336-5736. *************************************************** Funerals: Elias Lopez Trevizo, 56, Dayton,2 today St. Joseph’s Catholic Church-Dayton** Rosa Lee Haywood Ford, 90, formerly of Liberty, Graveside at 1 Wednesday at Liberty City Cemetery.**Jimmy Earl Lilley, Cleveland today at Neal Funeral Home-Cleveland**Kendoyce Evelyn Fingleman-80. Funeral 10 Wed. 1st Baptist Church-Dayton (PSFH)**Rev. Bill Webb-83, Montgomery Methodist Church, 11 today. **************************************************** *LAKE RELEASE: 37,200CFS*LIBERTY BRIDGE: 27.80 ASL*
VOLUME 22 NO. 013 FRIDAY JANUARY 19TH, 2007- **************************************************** Mary Strickland, the North Liberty County woman shot and killed Wednesday, was the widow of Liberty County Sheriffs Deputy Earl McFarland. He was killed in a traffic accident while escorting a Veterans parade in 1990. The woman’s current husband Rodney Strickland also allegedly shot the 17-year-old daughter of Mary Strickland and the late Earl McFarland. The girl is expected to fully recover. Sheriff Greg Arthur said the two women were shot separately, however they are still investigating whether the girls shooting was intentional or accidental. Rodney Strickland is in the Liberty County Jail on a $1 million bond, charged with murder. **************************************************** A house fire in Dayton did serious damage to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Anin at 501 Ladd St. at the corner of Ross. Assistant Fire Chief Murphy Green said Mrs. Anin was home with their 2 children. They went out a window when they smelled the smoke and called fire fighters from a neighbor’s house. A lamp in the front of the house is the suspected cause, however the investigation continues. **************************************************** State Senator Tommy Williams said in addition to illegal immigration and funding school property tax reductions, a major issue facing legislators this session is transportation. Specifically he believes it’s important to protect the Harris County Toll Road Authority from State Highway Commissioners and Texas Department of Transportation who want to take money from the authority to be used in other areas of the state. Senator Williams said while Liberty County does not benefit directly from those funds, the entire area benefits from the increased mobility the Toll Road Authority provides. **************************************************** The Hardin High School Cheerleaders have earned a spot in this weekend’s Cheer Power Competition at Moody Gardens in Galveston. A win there means the Hornet Cheer Squad moves on to the Cheer Power Finals and possible National Championship. **************************************************** Funerals: Beulah Catherine Travis Griffin, 90, formerly of Liberty, Services tomorrow at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Liberty * Alice Wade Bolton Bennett, 89, of Cleveland, Services at 2 p.m. tomorrow at Neal Funeral Home in Cleveland. ** **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 50,400 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 27.76 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 012 THURSDAY JANUARY 18TH, 2007- **************************************************** Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur said Rodney Strickland, 51 of the Tarkington area called yesterday afternoon and told deputies he had shot two members of his family. Dead is his wife, Mary Strickland age 46. His 17-year-old stepdaughter was taken to Memorial Hermann Hospital by Life Flight air ambulance in serious condition. Sheriff Arthur said the 10-year-old son of Rodney and Mary Strickland was in the home at the time of the shooting but was not injured. **************************************************** Tuesday night, Liberty School Trustees heard a report from John Pechacek on the audit of the district for the 2005-2006 school year. He told trustees there was nearly $3 million in delinquent taxes owed the district, and an aggressive effort by the LISD tax attorney should be able to collect some of that money. He also told trustees he felt the Liberty County Tax Assessors office was slow on moving tax money they collect on behalf of the district from their account in to that of LISD. Trustees asked Director of Business Services Margaret Lee to look into how much interest the district is losing because of the slow payment process. In other action, trustees decided they would call for a special election to replace recently resigned board member Frank Davis. That election will be held in conjunction with the general election May 12th, 2007. **************************************************** Tomorrow night from 5-7 PM, the Liberty Rotary Club will hold their 55th Annual Fish Supper at the new Liberty Center at City Hall. All you can eat fish and trimmings for just $8. Kids under 5 eat free. Tickets are available from any Liberty Rotary Club member or at the door. There will also be a drive through line at the west side of City Hall for orders to go. Proceeds benefit the local service club’s many community projects. **************************************************** While it had a lot of build up getting here, at least in Liberty County, it was more the ice storm that wasn’t. DPS Sergeant Chuck Havard said the only problems with icing on the roadways were on Highway 59 in Cleveland. **************************************************** Funerals: Joyce Green Windon, 65 of Houston. Services will be noon Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dayton * Orville Eugene Shoemaker, 53 of Devers. Services tomorrow at 2 PM at Allison Funeral Service in Liberty **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 50,400 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 27.33 ASL** VOLUME 22 NO. 011 WEDNESDAY JANUARY 17TH, 2007- **************************************************** With the Trinity River expected to crest in Liberty near 28.4 feet above sea level late tomorrow or early Friday, Liberty County Officials have asked for a voluntary evacuation of flood prone areas along the river. Emergency Management Coordinator Ken DeFoor said the main reason for the request is the threat of access roads becoming impassable due to rising water. Motorists should use extreme caution when water covers the roadway. Night travel in these areas should be avoided if possible. **************************************************** An 8” water line in Dayton broke Monday night, causing water to about an 8-10 block area to be shut off for about an hour and a half. Dayton City Manager David Douglas said due to TCEQ regulations, those who lost water Monday night, most of which were south of Houston Street, should continue to boil all water intended for human consumption. City Manager Douglas said they have sent samples of the water to a lab for testing, and they anticipate receiving the results of those tests on Thursday. **************************************************** The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon is next Wednesday – Jan. 24th- at noon at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church’s Marion Hall. This month’s luncheon features a panel of local attorneys addressing issues such as domestic violence, family law and real estate. Lunch is fajitas for $8 a plate. Call 936-336-5736 for reservations **************************************************** The Friends of the Liberty Municipal Library are holding their membership drive this month. Library Director Dana Abshire said they would be mailing out membership applications to current members, and also working to add memberships. The friends’ organization provides both money to help fund special programs at the library as well as volunteer manpower. Memberships run as little as $5 for an individual membership, $1,000 lifetime membership, and anything in between. For more information call 936-336-8901. **************************************************** Funerals: Ralph Rivera, Jr. 43. Funeral services will be Friday at 10 am at Neal Funeral Home Chapel in Cleveland. ** Brooks Eubanks, 71, of Old River, Services at 2 p.m. tomorrow at Sterling Funeral Home in Dayton. ** John Pugh Thompson, 74, of Liberty, Services at 10 a.m. tomorrow at Allison Funeral Service in Liberty. ** **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 50,400 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 26.77 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 009 FRIDAY JANUARY 12TH, 2007- **************************************************** US Congressmen Kevin Brady says he is against the proposed increase in the minimum wage because he felt the goal should be moving workers into good paying jobs. He touted the idea of an education debit card that minimum wage workers can use to attend local community colleges, or trade schools to develop the skills that bring in what he called a livable wage. Congressman Brady said even at $7.25 an hour, many folks will still be at the federal poverty level. The congressman whose 8th Congressional District includes a portion of Liberty County said he believes the proposal will pass. **************************************************** Information from the Dayton Police Department indicates Barbara Berotte, 50 of Dayton, remains in critical condition at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston. She is said to have a punctured liver and to be undergoing treatment to reduce swelling on the brain. She was injured Wednesday when a building collapsed, trapping her beneath the rubble. **************************************************** A high turnover rate of correctional officers results in an under experienced work force in Texas Department of Criminal Justice state prisons. One of the reasons for the turnover, experts say, is the pay scale. Both Senator Tommy Williams and State Representative John Otto agree that something needs to be done to address the pay of those state employees in high-risk jobs. Senator Williams said he has already talked with a fellow senator about addressing the issue this session. **************************************************** The Dayton Athletic Booster Club’s Annual Oyster and Fish Fry is Saturday at Woodrow Wilson Jr. High in Dayton. Tickets are $12 for all you can eat fish and a dozen oysters. Saturday’s dinner will be from 5 pm – 7:30 pm. Tickets are available in advance at Dayton Farm and Ranch, Legend Bank, Prosperity Bank in Dayton, Calvin Westcott State Farm, and Randel Arnold State Farm as well as at the door. **************************************************** Funerals: Russell Glenn Todd, 39 of Daisetta. Funeral services tomorrow at 2 PM at Central Baptist Church in Daisetta * Bertha N. McCarty Campbell, 98 of Huffman. Funeral services at 11 AM Monday at Rice Funeral Home in Claremore, Oklahoma * Doris Lorraine Emmons Pledger, 80 of Hull. Funeral services 10 AM today at Sterling Funeral Home-Dayton. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 9,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 22.58 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 008 THURSDAY JANUARY 11TH, 2007- **************************************************** As of late yesterday afternoon, Barbara Berotte, age 50 of Dayton was in critical condition at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, after a building collapsed on her. Dayton police Sgt. Doug O’Quinn said she and her brother, John Berotte, were helping another sister by demolishing an old outbuilding behind the residence when, without warning, it collapsed, trapping her under the roof structure. Dayton Fire Department and Liberty Co. EMS personnel worked with axes, poles and bare hands ripping at the roof to free the woman. While initially, it was thought she had died as a result of the accident, EMS personnel were able to restore her heart beat using cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, and she was taken to the Houston Hospital by LifeFlight Air Ambulance. **************************************************** Dayton Police say shortly after 11 am yesterday, Robert Vaughn of Tarkington was going south on Highway 146 south of Dayton when he crossed the centerline and struck the pick up of northbound Joe Patton of Dayton. Witnesses told police that Mr. Vaughn began trying to conceal items after the wreck, and officers found drug paraphernalia including what appeared to be a crack cocaine pipe in nearby foliage. Liberty County EMS took Robert Vaughn to Liberty Dayton Community Hospital. The Chambers Liberty County Narcotics Task Force was notified by Dayton PD of the drug paraphernalia in Vaughn’s possession and he was taken into custody following his release from the hospital. **************************************************** The Liberty City Council Tuesday night appointed five people to a charter review commission, they are: Mark Morefield, Patricia Watson, Cathy Harbour, Ron Mayo and Frank Jordan. Council also named six to the Airport Advisory Board, Rick McGuire, Chet Tims, David Lawrence, Charles Graebin, Linda Street-Ely, and Airport Supervisor Avon Moore. **************************************************** The Dayton Rotary Club is holding their annual fundraising Gumbo Luncheon Friday, January 19th. The chicken and sausage gumbo will be served at the First United Methodist Church in Dayton from 10:30 until 2:30. Tickets are available from any Dayton Rotary Club member or at the door. Tickets are $5. Proceeds benefit the Dayton Rotary Club Scholarship program and other community projects. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 17,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 23.01 ASL** VOLUME 22 NO. 007 WEDNESDAY JANUARY 10TH, 2007- **************************************************** In their first regular meeting of the new year, Liberty Co. Commissioners voted to hold the final payment to Corrections Corporation of America until issues with required reports from CCA and maintenance at the county jail could be worked out. Liberty County Auditor Harold Seay said he is still waiting on reports from the former jail operators that were due last summer. Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur said they continue to find areas of the jail where the facility was not maintained as required by the contract between CCA and Liberty County. The final check being held by the county is a little over $400,000. **************************************************** Monday night, the Dayton City Council approved a new logo to appear on city vehicles and other city property over the next few months. The new logo features the motto “Making the Difference” and an impressive star over a map of Texas marking Dayton’s location. The logo will be in red, white and blue. Council also approved installation of 36-inch drainage pipelines behind the Dayton Dirt Yard and under Colbert Street. **************************************************** Lee College Director of Continuing Education and Work Force Training, Johna Paige said areas of the medical field comprise a large number of the top 50 fastest growing fields in the country. She said Lee College offers a number of fast track programs to help someone enter these career areas in as little at 6 weeks. While some of the programs must be taken in a classroom setting, some are offered online. Check them out on line by going to www.kshn.com and click on schools. **************************************************** Superintendent Mona Chadwick said all Liberty Schools will be dismissed at 2 p.m. tomorrow so faculty and students can, if they wish, attend the funeral of longtime educator, Nick Vaught. **************************************************** The Liberty County Courthouse as well as city offices in both Dayton and Liberty will be closed Monday in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday. All banks and post offices will also be closed, however garbage pick up will run as scheduled Monday in both Liberty and Dayton. **************************************************** Funerals: Ila Boyt Maxwell, 96, of Devers, Graveside services at 10 a.m. tomorrow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Beaumont. ** **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 23,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 23.15 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 006 TUESDAY JANUARY 9TH, 2007- **************************************************** Long time beloved schoolteacher, coach and friend- Nick Vaught died shortly after 1 PM Monday. The 53-year-old popular educator suffered a severe stroke several months ago, and during treatment, an aggressive brain tumor was discovered. Family members said he died peacefully, surrounded by his family and closest friends. Besides his unselfish involvement in many community activities, Nick Vaught was also a familiar voice on KSHN radio as the color analyst for the Liberty Panther Football Game Broadcasts. In his immediate family is survived by his wife Lorrie Hartel Vaught and their son, Jake. **************************************************** The Liberty-Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting for the new Chili’s Restaurant on the 146 Bypass in Liberty was yesterday morning. Though the new restaurant will not open to the public until 11 a.m. Thursday, those attending the ceremony and other invited guests were asked to help train the new Chili’s staff by sitting down to a complimentary meal. Manager Jason Burkhalter said they have already hired 119 employees, they still have openings for experienced cooks. **************************************************** Former Cleveland High School Football Star Dennis Ellis was a starter for the Boise State Bronco Team that defeated the Oklahoma Sooners 43 to 42 in overtime on New Year’s Day at the Fiesta Bowl. The 2002 Cleveland Grad had an outstanding record at the College of the Canyons, then moved on to play for Boise State in Idaho. Dennis Ellis is a Senior Communications Major and has been a key player in the Defensive Line for the undefeated Broncos. **************************************************** The 9th Annual Liberty County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration is this Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Liberty Center at City Hall. The guest speakers are State Representatives John Otto and Dr. Alma A. Allen. There will also be special musical presentations, dance and drill routines. For more information, call 936-336-7393 or 936-336-6601. **************************************************** Funerals: Norman Ray Mosely, Jr., 43, of Dayton, Services at noon today at Hardin Baptist in Hardin. ** Dorothy Marie Hart, 79, of Rye, Services at 2 p.m. Wednesday at 1st Baptist Church of Batson. ** Nick Vaught, 53. Funeral Services Thursday at 4 PM at the First Baptist Church in liberty. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 23,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 23.21 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 005 MONDAY JANUARY 8TH, 2007- A routine stop by Liberty Police last Thursday night resulted in five people arrested on hunting violations. Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden Danny Diaz said police found two buck deer, several rabbits, raccoons and armadillos inside an SUV. James Peak, 19, of Liberty and K. C. Nelson, 17, of Anahuac are charged with hunting white tail deer at night – a State Jail felony. Kevin Brock, 20, of Hardin, 18-year-old Cody Harryman and Fawn Parrot, also 18, both from Liberty, are charged with hunting at night from a vehicle- a Class A Misdemeanor. **************************************************** That story provided Game Warden Diaz with more information prompting him to believe there was more to the story –Diaz and other officers staked out Liberty Food Mart on Virginia St. in Liberty and it paid off. Soon the lawmen raided the small store issuing misdemeanor citations to three. Two were charged with buying white tail deer, one for selling the same wildlife game. Cited at the store was Quan Van Vo-43 and Van Trang Ly-48. **************************************************** Assistant Liberty Fire Chief Jennifer Huddleston said firefighters answered a call to Black and Gold Services on Hwy 90 around 7 last Friday night and found - not one – but two of the company’s 18-wheel vacuum trucks on fire. The trucks were parked side-by-side and while both cabs were destroyed, firefighters were able to keep the flames from doing damage to the trucks’ trailer tanks. Chief Huddleston said the cause of the fire is under investigation but nothing has been found to indicate foul play. Damage to the trucks is between $250,000 and $300,000. **************************************************** Liberty High Baseball players are raising money for expenses over the teams school budget. The players are selling a book of coupons good for free and discounted foods from 11 different Liberty and Dayton restaurants. The book costs $20 with a lot more value and can be purchased from any Liberty baseball player or Coach Josh Sadler at 346-6707. **************************************************** Houston Galveston Area Council Representatives will be at the Dayton City Hall from 9 to 2 tomorrow to take applications for assistance from residents who have been unable to repair Hurricane Rita damage to their homes. Another chance to apply for funds from a $7 million federal grant is on Thursday Jan. 18th at the Tri-County MH/MR Office in Cleveland. **************************************************** Funerals:Inez Johnson 86, of Kenefick, Services were Sunday. **LAKE RELEASE: 23,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 23.26 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 004 FRIDAY JANUARY 5TH, 2007- **************************************************** Dayton School Superintendent Greg Hayman said High School Band Director John Eustace, who has been on administrative leave since late November, has submitted his resignation. Superintendent Hayman said it is effective January 31st, and has been accepted. Eustace will remain on administrative leave until that time. It was just before the Dayton Bronco Band made their trip to Chicago in November, that the 5 year band director was put on leave after it was alleged he sent sexually explicit e-mails or text messages to a female student in the band. **************************************************** Liberty Police say the driver, Dwayne Douglas Roberts, 33 of Liberty, who caused last month’s fatal wreck on Highway 90 was legally drunk at the time. Detective Gary Martin said both Roberts and Genevieve Jackson were killed instantly. Autopsy results on Dwayne Douglas Roberts show the man was legally intoxicated, with a blood alcohol level of 1.02 %, when his truck crossed into oncoming traffic. The legal limit is .08%. **************************************************** 44 year old Wesley Edwin Bruce, of Tarkington has been sentenced to 75 years in prison for aggravated sexual assault of a child and possession of child pornography. District Attorney Mike Little said the man pled guilty in September to those charges, and on Wednesday, 75th District Judge C.T. “Rusty” Hight handed down the sentence. DA Little said the investigation of the sexual assault led to the discovery of child pornography on the man’s computer. Mike Little said while Bruce would become eligible for parole after roughly 30 years, more often then not, child sex offenders, convicted of an aggravated offense serve their entire sentence. **************************************************** Tickets are on sale now for the annual Dayton Chamber of Commerce Banquet set for Thursday January 25th at 6:30 PM. Held at the Woodrow Wilson Junior High on Highway 146, the keynote speaker will be none other then Texas Governor Rick Perry. Reservations are necessary since due to the increased security involved and anticipated crowd with the governor’s visit, no tickets will be sold at the door. Call the Dayton Chamber office at 936 257 2393 for reservations. **************************************************** Funerals: Ernest Nugent, 64 of Liberty. Funeral services are today at 2 PM at Allison Funeral Service in Liberty. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 23,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 21.09 ASL**
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-VOLUME 22 NO. 003 THURSDAY JANUARY 4TH, 2007- **************************************************** Liberty Middle School Principal Bruce Lacefield said dealing with the differing standards between state educational accountability and the federal No Child Left Behind program is like fighting two battles. For example, the federal passing percentage target for math is set at 58 % in 2008, while the state requirement increases to 50% in the same time period. In spite of the shifting target, Principal Lacefield said he is confident that Liberty Middle School will continue to progress to the designation of an Exemplary school, the highest designation level awarded by the State of Texas. **************************************************** With the swearing in ceremony Tuesday morning at the Liberty County Court House, veterans of public service took the oath of office for another term. Serving the public as elected County Clerk for 10 years, Delia Sellers has worked in that office in some capacity for more than 20 years. County Court at Law Judge Don Taylor begins his third term. Melody Gilmore has been District Clerk for 7 ½ years, while Lee Groce has been County Commissioner Pct. #2 for 20 years. Precinct #4 Commissioner Norman Brown starts his second term. JP #1 Bobby Radar has been at it for 8 years. JP #5 Burl Thomas started his 13th year. Glen Pruitt JP Pct. #4 is now in his 10th year. And just behind County Attorney Jack Hartel for longevity, JP #2 Ronnie Davis has been Justice of the Peace for 24 years. **************************************************** The new China Buffet on Highway 90 in Liberty is now open, and is the 11th Chinese restaurant owned by the Zhu Family of Jasper Texas. They have completely rehabilitated the old Panda Panda restaurant, including a complete remodeling of the dining area, and the kitchen. It is a brand new restaurant. Kevin Zhu, son of the founder of the family chain, said the main dining area seats over 150 and the private dining area holds a little over 25. The new China Buffet on Highway 90 across from Lewie's in Liberty is open 7 days a week from 11 AM until 9:30 PM. **************************************************** The Life Share Blood Center is holding a platelet drive this Saturday at 1st Liberty National Bank in Liberty from 10 A.M. until 4 P.M. Platelets are responsible for the clotting factor in human blood and are used to help those who suffer from diseases or injuries causing bleeding. Platelet donations require two hours. Call 936-298 2689 to schedule an appointment. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 19,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 20.91 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 002 WEDNESDAY JANUARY 3RD, 2007- **************************************************** More than 200 people crowded into the 75th District Courtroom on the 3rd floor of the Liberty County Courthouse for the swearing in ceremony for those elected to office in November. After being sworn into office by 24-year veteran Justice of the Peace Ronnie Davis, Liberty County Judge Phil Fitzgereld did the honors for newly elected County Treasurer Kim Harris. Retiring Judge Lloyd Kirkham officiated as Peggy Dunn, the first woman judge in Liberty County since 1836, took the oath of office of Justice of the Peace Pct. #6. Also taking the oath for the first time as elected officials was Cody Parrish - JP # 3, Constables Mike Parrish, Pct. #2 and Danny Frankum Pct #3. **************************************************** The Houston Galveston Area Council received a 7 million-dollar grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs to fund a Hurricane Rita restoration program. Designed to help low to moderate income home owners not eligible for help from FEMA or private insurance with financial assistance to repair damages caused by Hurricane Rita in 2005. HGAC representatives will be at Dayton City Hall Tuesday January 9th from 9-2, and on Thursday January 18th at the Tri-County MHMR Office in Cleveland also from 9-2, to accept applications. Dates for Chambers County will be announced soon. For more information, or to download an application, go to www.h-gacritarestore.com or call 1 877 442 2777. **************************************************** Tim Gassiott, Vocational Director for Dayton High School said all six Liberty County school districts with high schools have students enrolled in classes offered this month by the Liberty County Career Training Academy. In addition, more area junior or community colleges are coming on board by offering classes for students in Liberty County. Kingwood College has expressed an interest in offering classes next fall in Cleveland including Logistics, an introductory class for dental assistants, drafting and another welding course. For any classes offered, the first spots are open to students of Liberty County high schools, then adults are offered those slots not taken. **************************************************** Funerals: Lola B. Keener, 98, of Hardin. Services will be today at 11 A.M. at Olive Bethel Baptist Church in Hardin ** Joel Arturo Rodriguez, 35 of Dayton. Services today at noon at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dayton. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 19,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 20.43 ASL**
-VOLUME 22 NO. 001 TUESDAY JANUARY 2ND, 2007- **************************************************** The Liberty County Career Training Academy has some spots available for adults to enroll in either the Electricity or Industrial Maintenance courses starting this month. Tim Gassiott said they would be going to Lamar Institute of Technology January 10th for sign up and testing for the Industrial Maintenance Class. Courses offered through the Liberty County Career Training Academy are open to all Liberty County High School Seniors, and adults when space is available. The five classes being offered at this time are Process Technology, Office Practice and Procedures, Electricity, Welding and Industrial Maintenance. For more information call Dayton High School at 936 258 2510. **************************************************** With the change of the New Year came the change of operations of the Liberty County Jail. At 12:01 AM Monday, Civigenics took over jail operations. The new warden, Tim New said the company, Civigenics is based in Massachusetts and operates 11 jails, with all of them- except 1 in Ohio- located in Texas. The County Jail houses approximately 380 people, about 200 are county prisoners with the remaining beds contracted to house prisoners for the US Marshall’s Service. **************************************************** James Bricker, Facilities Manager for the Trinity Valley Exposition the last four years, has been hired to operate the 3-year-old, $20 million indoor fairground facility called Dodge Arena in Hidalgo. Bricker begins his new job January 8th. The TVE board has advertised in the State Fair Association trade magazine for a new manager, local applicants are also welcome. Send a resume to TVE Chairman of the Board, Barry Whittaker, fax it to 936 336 5192 or drop it by the TVE Fairgrounds Office. **************************************************** The Liberty County Master Gardeners will hold a 5-week intensive Landscaping Course starting January 15th. The course is each Monday night from 6-8 at the Dayton Ag Building, it will include introductory landscape drafting, grounds layout, tree and shrub selection and more. Cost is $25. Call the Liberty County Extension Office at 936 336 4558 Ext. 221. **************************************************** The Lifeshare Blood Center will hold a whole blood drive Thursday from 1 to 7 PM at the FLNB Dayton Financial Center and a platelet drive Saturday from 10 AM until 4 PM at FLNB Liberty. Call 936 298 2698 for more information. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 19,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 17.63 ASL**
-VOLUME 21 NO. 250 FRIDAY DECEMBER 29TH, 2006- **************************************************** On Wednesday, a ceremonial groundbreaking was held in north Liberty County for the long planned Cleveland relief route, also call the Highway 105 Loop. It will be over six miles long, looping around the City of Cleveland. Liberty Co. Judge Lloyd Kirkham, State Senator Tommy Williams, State Representative John Otto and several other citizens and officials were there to turn over the first shovels of dirt. The construction project is slated to begin in late 2007. **************************************************** Liberty Library Director Dana Abshire said a program offered through Microsoft allowed the Library to purchase over $4,100 in computer software for only $200. The software includes the 2007 versions of Encarta and Encarta Kids, which are on-line reference encyclopedias. These multi-media encyclopedias, along with other new software, will be available on 10 new computers, also purchased through a grant program from Microsoft creator Bill Gates. The computers and new software packages are expected to be online the first week in January. **************************************************** The annual open enrollment period to sign up for prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D – or to make changes in your current coverage- ends on December 31st. David Bauman of the Beaumont Social Security Office said those whose prescription drug plan with their employer has been discontinued or become more costly than Part D can also enroll without penalty. In that case, anyone eligible for Medicare would have seven months after those changes take effect to sign up. **************************************************** Dayton City Manager David Douglas said folks there could put their Christmas trees out with the regular garbage on the second scheduled pickup day of each week and Waste Management will carry them off. Liberty Assistant City Manager Michael Rameriz said the city’s limb truck would pick up Christmas trees for disposal. Just put your tree at curbside, it may take several days for the truck to make it to your neighborhood. Residents in both cities should remove all decorations. **************************************************** Funerals: Dorothy Mae Love Johnson, 74 of Humble. Funeral services Saturday at 11 AM at Fontane First Baptist Church in Houston ** Cheryl Nugent, 39 of Raywood. Services at 2 PM Saturday at Sterling Funeral Home Chapel in Dayton ** **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 4,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 9.51 ASL**
-VOLUME 21 NO. 249 THURSDAY DECEMBER 28TH, 2006- **************************************************** A mother and daughter, Tammy Kramer 45 and Brandy Kramer 25 are in the Liberty County Jail charged with 2 counts of Burglary of a Habitation and a third person, James Asbury, 40 is being sought by the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. Tuesday afternoon about 3:30 there was a call of a suspicious truck at the home of Sheriff’s Department employee Lynn Pruitt. Sheriff Greg Arthur said deputies found the two women with the pickup and items alleged to have been taken from the Pruitt home as well as another home that had been recently burglarized. Both the Kramer women are being held under a $50,000 bond each. **************************************************** The Dayton City Council has decided to rebuild one city street entirely. The project on Ford Road is not part of the annual street budget, however council added an additional $307,000 to completely rebuild Ford Road that has some serious ongoing drainage problems. Ford Rd. between Prater and FM 1409 was intended to drain rain water runoff back towards FM 1409, however that has not been happening. Starting in late spring, city work crews will do a total rebuild of the road to provide a better surface and put an end to the drainage issue. **************************************************** For folks interested in drafting and entering the work force quickly, Lee College has a fast track educational program that allows a student to finish the required course load for a Computer Aided Drafting certificate in one semester rather than two. Instructor D.D. Griffith said Lee College offers two certificate courses and an Associates Degree and once the certificate course is completed, students can, and do quickly enter the job market. For more information on the fast track program Computer Aided Drafting / Drafting Technology course call either the main Lee College line or 1-281-425-6518. **************************************************** Henry Dugat, from Dayton, a highly recruited basketball star for the Broncos, is now a standout sophomore for the Baylor Bears. Through this season, to date, Henry Dugat leads the Bears in scoring and other statistical categories. He has scored 133 points over nine games and is averaging 13.3 points per game to lead the team. This season the Baylor Bears have a 7-3 record. **************************************************** The Liberty Co. Courthouse, city offices in Liberty and Dayton all banks and post offices will be closed for New Years Monday. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 4,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 9.02 ASL**
-VOLUME 21 NO. 248 WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 27TH, 2006- **************************************************** Liberty County Judge –Elect Phil Fitzgerald and other newly-elected and re-elected county officials will be sworn in to office next Tuesday morning January 2nd. The ceremony will be at 10 a.m. in the 75th District Courtroom on the 3rd Floor of the Courthouse. Fitzgerald said Precinct #2 JP Ronnie Davis would administer his oath of office. Other newly elected officials taking the oath of office at that time are County Treasurer Kim Harris, JP #3 Cody Parrish and JP #6 Peggy Dunn. Mrs. Harris will be given her second oath as treasurer, having already been sworn in to fill out the remaining days on the term of Linda Leonard, who left office early to accept a job as Human Resources Director with new County Jail operators Civigenics. A reception will be held after the ceremonies. **************************************************** Returning those not-so-perfect Christmas gifts has gotten more difficult in recent years. Stores have stiffened return policies as part of overall loss prevention strategies. Baskins Store Manager Bill Kyle said other Baskins’ have suffered significant losses due to fraudulent returns though his Liberty store has not. Returning an item without a receipt can be difficult if not impossible. **************************************************** The Langetree Duck Farm and Eco Center will host the “Festival of Light in the Woods”, a special holiday celebration Saturday at 4 p.m. It is a multi-cultural celebration with observances of Christmas, Advent, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Epiphany and Los Posados at various spots on the grounds. Admission is one canned meat product to be donated to local food banks. The Langetree Duck Farm is on CR# 190 off FM 770 in Raywood. Call 936-587-4325 for more information. **************************************************** The University of Texas Longhorns take on Iowa in the Alamo Bowl Saturday afternoon. Our live broadcast of Texas vs. Iowa in San Antonio begins with the pre-game at 2:30 p.m. Kick Off for the Alamo Bowl is 3:30 Saturday afternoon. **************************************************** FUNERALS: Lizzie Sisk, 93, of Liberty, Services at 10 a.m. today Allison Funeral Service in Liberty. ** Raymond Busick, 91, of Anahuac, Services pending with Sterling Funeral Home in Anahuac. ** Robert Louis “Bobby” Henderson, 67, of Liberty, Services at 11 a.m. Saturday at Trinity Valley Baptist Church in Liberty. ** **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 4,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 8.04 ASL**
-VOLUME 21 NO. 247 TUESDAY DECEMBER 26TH, 2006- **************************************************** A fire that heavily damaged a home on South Prairie Street in Dayton Sunday night may have been intentionally set. Dayton Fire Fighters said there was no electrical or gas hooked up to the frame dwelling but flames were standing tall overhead when they arrived just after dark. Dayton Fire Captain Murphy Green said the fire was probably set on the front porch. The house was vacant and there were no injuries, but damage was extensive. **************************************************** DPS Corporal Shawn Cheshire said 34-year-old Corina May Raymond had just left a nightclub on FM 160 in Ames early Sunday morning when her car stalled out on the railroad crossing at Hwy 90. Mrs. Raymond managed to steer the vehicle off the crossing but an oncoming train forced her to leave it on one of the two tracks. The train struck her car and dragged it two miles, to the Hwy 146 Bypass in Liberty. The vehicle was demolished but Corina Mae Raymond escaped uninjured. Corporal Cheshire said the woman admitted she had been drinking but tests proved she was not intoxicated. **************************************************** Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur said the shooting of a 12-year-old boy last Friday morning at a residence north of Dayton appears to be accidental. Sheriff Arthur said Denton Hagan was squirrel hunting with two friends, ages 12 and 13. One of the juveniles was rapid firing a .22 semi-automatic rifle and struck Denton Hagan once in the left leg, once in the right leg. The Hagan boy was airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston. His injuries were not thought life threatening. **************************************************** Texas Governor Rick Perry will be visiting Dayton next month. Brooks Hiller, co-chair for this year’s Dayton Chamber Banquet said the governor’s office has confirmed he will be the keynote speaker at the Annual Banquet on January 25th at Dayton High School. Tickets are $30 each and go on sale this week at the Dayton Chamber Office. **************************************************** FUNERALS: Arlice Barton Rawlinson, 84, of Hardin, Services at 2 p.m. tomorrow at Hardin Baptist Church. *** Harry E. Jones, 62, of Dayton, Services at 10 a.m. tomorrow at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dayton. ** Robert Louis Henderson, 68, of Dayton, Services pending at Wells Funeral Home in Liberty. ** **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 4,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 7.82 ASL**
-VOLUME 21 NO. 246 FRIDAY DECEMBER 22ND, 2006- **************************************************** With the vote of city council Tuesday night, Liberty’s new police chief was chosen. Mike Cummings, 53 comes to the job from a varied background in law enforcement that includes a combination of big city police experience and administrative duties for a small town police force. Mike Cummings said he believes in what he called community policing, and plans a close relationship between the police department and the citizens of Liberty. Mike Cummings takes over as Liberty Police Chief on January 16th. He replaces Bill Griffin who recently resigned. **************************************************** The Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge will host the 11th annual Christmas Bird Count Tuesday starting at 7 am. Volunteers go to designated areas and count numbers and species of birds. There is a $5 fee required to participate, but that goes toward funding of conservation efforts and participants get a copy of a book containing the nationwide results of the bird count. To participate, call the Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge at 936 336 9786. **************************************************** The deadline for nominating someone for the Dayton School District “Wall of Fame” is February 1st. Eligibility requirements include a professional employee, including administrators, teachers, counselors, librarians, and nurses, that have been retired or not been employed in Dayton for the past 5 years. Nominees must also have a minimum of 5 years service to the district. Nomination forms are available on the schools website or in all campus offices and the administration building. To access the website, go to ours at www.kshn.com and click on schools. **************************************************** The Dayton Volunteer Fire Department will again deliver Christmas food baskets to more than 20 families in need starting at 9 am tomorrow. These families include children ranging in age from infants to 16 years. Fire department personnel would like to include toys for these kids, unfortunately, they don’t have the toys and time is running out. If you would like to donate a toy, drop it off at the Dayton Police Department. **************************************************** FUNERALS: John David Holbrook, 81 of Dayton. Graveside services this morning at 11 AM at Magnolia Park Cemetery in Dayton. **************************************************** **LAKE RELEASE: 2,000 CFS * LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.95 ASL**
-VOLUME 21 NO. 245 THURSDAY DECEMBER 21ST, 2006- **************************************************** According to DPS Trooper Randy Peck, Liberty Co. Sheriff’s Deputy Robert Dunn was responding to a call to assist another officer yesterday morning, when his vehicle fishtailed around a curve, and flipped twice. He was taken to Cleveland Hospital as a precaution. Amazingly Deputy Dunn walked away, shaken but uninjured. The accident happened on FM 787. **************************************************** The Liberty County Bikes for Christmas Giveaway is need of volunteers to help in getting ready for the big event Friday evening at 6 out at the TVE Fairgrounds. Organizer David Milam said he has only a few people to do a huge amount of work and anyone who can help would be greatly appreciated. Literally thousands are expected Friday when more than 1,600 bicycles will be given away, along with countless toys for siblings, plus free hot dogs and drinks. For more information on volunteering your time today and tomorrow for this special event, call David Milam at 936-334-9500. The TVE Fairgrounds are on FM 563 one mile south of Hwy. 90 in Liberty. **************************************************** Local government offices will be closed on Monday in observance of the Christmas Holiday, but their schedules will vary. The Liberty County Courthouse is closed Friday through Tuesday December 26th. The Dayton City Offices will be closed Friday and Monday. The city offices in Liberty will be open for regular hours Friday, but will close on Monday and Tuesday. Garbage service will not run in Liberty or Dayton on Monday, but there is regular trash pick up every other day. Banks and post offices will be closed on Monday Dec. 25th- Christmas Day only. **************************************************** The First United Methodist Church in Liberty will present their 51st Annual Living Nativity Scene on Saturday and Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. Everyone is invited to come by and view this great local tradition. The first nativity scene at the Liberty Church was back in 1955. **************************************************** FUNERALS: Thomas Ray Poore Sr., 59, of Cleveland, Services at 10 a.m. tomorrow at Neal Funeral Home in Cleveland. ** Ethel Beard Edwards, 90, of Port Arthur, Services are at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Wells Funeral Service in Liberty. ** Larry Earl Godfrey, 52, of Dayton, Services at 11 a.m. Saturday at Pleasant Hill Baptist Churc |