Daily Radiogram

Radiogram

LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.98 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 187 THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 28^th, 2006-

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The Democratic Party of Liberty County has come out in opposition of the proposed Lower Trinity Groundwater Conservation District. Saying the district would put Liberty County as a minority member while footing about 75% of the cost. Party Chair Nancy Archer said the executive committee voted Monday night to oppose the district creation, and urged citizens of Liberty County to vote against it.

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The Liberty City Council met Tuesday night and ended months of discussion by approving a drilling permit for a company called Forest Oil Corporation. The company has been seeking the permit to put in a directional well in the area east of Travis Park. The oil drilling company’s large trucks will use Jefferson Dr. and Travis St., except during the morning drop-off and afternoon pick up times for students at Liberty Middle and High Schools. Safety concerns require the trucks to take Magnolia to North Travis during those periods on weekdays.

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A new law takes effect Oct. 1^st that requires all used vehicle purchasers to pay sales tax based on the state’s declared value for that vehicle, even if you paid much less than that for it. County Tax Assessor/Collector Mark McClelland said it doesn’t’ matter if you pay $500 for a wrecked car with a blown engine, you still pay tax on what is called the “presumptive value” of the vehicle. McClelland said this applies to sales between private citizens only. Car dealerships are exempt. ****************************************************

Here the candidates for 2006 Dayton High School Homecoming Queen-Lori Bell, Lacy Tillman and Sarah Williams. The winner will be crowned during half time at tomorrow night’s Dayton Homecoming Game against Lumberton. The candidates for Homecoming King at DHS are Chase Ambler, Larry Hill and James Maxwell. The Homecoming King will be named at Friday’s pre-game pep rally.

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Liberty Co. Republican Meet the Candidates will be tomorrow from 3 pm – 6 pm at the Devers School Cafeteria. The public is invited to attend.

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Funerals: John Carrol Sanders, 66. Services pending at Faith and Family Funeral Services, Batson.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.17 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 186 WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 27^th, 2006-

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An item on yesterday’s Liberty County Commissioner’s Court Agenda ignited a heated argument between commissioners and County Judge Lloyd Kirkham. That item was a request by DPS Sgt. Chuck Havard for a pay raise for the DPS Office Clerk, who now makes less than $21,500 a year. Judge Kirkham took issue with the request, accusing commissioners and Sgt. Havard of lining up votes on the request outside of Commissioners Court, what he referred to as a “walking quorum”. Assistant County Attorney Mark Beausoleil warned commissioners that such conduct was strictly illegal. Sgt. Havard denied he was promised or sought promises from any commissioner on how they would or would not vote on the issue. Commissioner Todd Fontenot said there was no vote lined up on his part, he had simply placed the item on the agenda for consideration and action.

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The cities of Liberty and Dayton have agreed to promote Waste Management’s new program to safely dispose of used hypodermic needles. Waste Management’s Terri Woodson said the “Sharps” program will allow residents to choose to purchase safe containers for used needles as an alternative to throwing them out or flushing them down the toilet, presenting a danger to waste disposal personnel and equipment.

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The 2006 TVE Kick Off Dance is Saturday night at 9 at the TVE Fairgrounds on FM 563 in Liberty. This year’s dance features the music of the Jamie Richards Band along with Cooder Graw. Tickets are $10 in advance at Baskins in Liberty, FLNB’s Dayton Financial Center and at the TVE Fairgrounds Office. Gate tickets are $12.50 each. For information call 936-336-7455 or visit www.kshn.com and link to the TVE web site.

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Two of the new businesses at the shopping center next to the Wal-Mart on the 146 Bypass in Liberty are already in place. Cato’s ladies clothing store has already moved into the strip center and is open for business. The shoe store called “Shoe Show” will open Friday. District Manager Vita Cross said the “Shoe Show” is currently taking employment applications.

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Funerals: Sybil M. King Murray, 74, of Dayton, Services at 7 p.m. tomorrow at Whispering Meadows Baptist Church in Dayton. **

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.47 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 185 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 26^th, 2006-

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A warehouse fire destroyed about half of the structure and nearly all of its contents yesterday morning in Liberty. When Liberty Fire Fighters arrived, flames were billowing from both ends of the building. Liberty FD with help from the Hardin FD had the fire out in about an hour and a half. The building belongs to James Cuevas. His wife said they were using the building mostly for storage. Fire Chief Fred Collins said the estimated 5000 SF building at the corner of Highway 90 and Tennessee had no utilities and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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The Grand Lodge of Texas hosted by the Liberty Masonic Lodge will level a dedication stone for the new Liberty City Hall this Saturday. The public is invited to attend and bring a small item like a photo, letter or card that can be placed in the time capsule. Brian R. Dodson, Grand Master of the Masons in Texas will perform the ceremony beginning at 11 AM Saturday.

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The Liberty County Horticultural Society will meet this Saturday at 10 AM at the Langetree DUCK Farm and Eco Center. The organization is open to everyone in the county interested in gardening. Annual dues are $10. This month’s presentation will be on Butterfly Gardening. For more information, call the Liberty County Extension Office at 936 336 4558 ext. 221. For directions to the DUCK Farm, call 936 587 4325. They are on CR. 190 off of FM 770 in Raywood.

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Lower Trinity Groundwater Conservation District Interim Board Member Wes Hinch said the idea behind a conservation district was born partially from a study commissioned by the Texas Water Commission in the late 1990’s. The study was reviewed by the Texas Legislature, and led them to believe there should be a statewide plan for utilizing ground water resources. While the supply of water from the Gulf Coast Aquifer, which Liberty County draws from, is sufficient for current local needs, Board Member Wes Hinch pointed out the rate of recharges means, with anticipated growth, having enough water for everyone could become an issue in the future. Creation of the district goes to public vote Nov. 7^th in the general election. Voters in 3 counties, Liberty, San Jacinto, and Polk will decide whether to be included in the district. Information on ground water districts in general is available at the Liberty County Extension office.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.42 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 184 MONDAY SEPTEMBER 25^th, 2006-

The Liberty Fire Department responded to a report of smoke in the kitchen at Liberty Elementary School on Bowie before noon Friday. The 2^nd -5^th graders were all at the appointed evacuation areas before firefighters arrived, but there was no fire. Liberty School Superintendent Mona Chadwick said a bearing on an air conditioning blower motor caused the trouble. Students were back in class 40 minutes after the alarm. No injuries, no damage.

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This year TVE Carnival Fun Passes go on sale Monday October 2^nd at the Liberty County Farm Bureau in Liberty on Hwy 90, at Liberty-Dayton Chrysler on the 146 Bypass and at Thrif-tee Food Center in Dayton. Each $50 pass is good for admission to the fairgrounds, the rodeo, and unlimited rides at the carnival every day except for the new extra day on Sunday. The 98^th Trinity Valley Exposition, Oct. 17 through 22. Find their website through ours at kshn.com.

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Spaces are filling for the free mammogram screening at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Raywood Oct. 11^th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by the Liberty County Cancer Awareness Network and a non-profit group called the Rose, the screening is for women with little or no medical insurance and low income who meet eligibility requirements. Call 281-464-5136 or 936-336-6439 to register for the free mammogram screening.

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A tough night of high school football in Liberty Co. Friday. The lone winner, the Hardin Hornets, won their Homecoming game against Beaumont Cathedral, 54 to 6. Liberty lost to Kirbyville 48 to 14, Hull-Daisetta suffered their first season loss 34 to 0 to Buna and it was Lumberton over Cleveland 49 to 0. Dayton, Tarkington, and Barbers Hill all had the week off.

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Liberty Co. Tax Collector Mark McClelland, a colonel in the Air Force Reserves, has been called to active duty. Tuesday he will ask Co. Commissioners to assign his Chief Deputy Doris Jones to head the department he was elected to in 1989. He expects to be on duty for a year. . ****************************************************

FUNERALS: Ivan Clemmons, 81, Crosby, Serv. were Sat.** Mary Ann Semien Williams, 57, Houston, serv. were Sat..** Jewel Teel Bailey, 80, Liberty, Serv.@10 Tues.-Allison Funeral Serv.-Liberty **A.L.“Al” Green, 87, Dayton, Serv. were Sun.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.22 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 183 FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 22^ND, 2006-

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Liberty Fire Chief Fred Collins said an industrial accident around 3 p.m. yesterday sent one man to Memorial Hermann Hospital. An employee of Inter-Chem, formerly known as Mississippi Chemical was transferring liquid nitrogen from one container to another when a valve blew off hitting him in the chest. Witnesses said he was thrown backward about the length of a pick up truck. The unidentified man was said to be in stable condition, airlifted to Houston as a precaution.

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The tickets for the Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Fundraising Drawing are on sale now. The event is different this year, but it’s still a chance to win some great prizes. Committee Chair Donna Greak said first prize is a $1,000 airline voucher and limo ride to the airport. Other prizes include a weekend getaway at Chain O Lakes Resort, a $500 Visa gift card, $300 in gas cards and a barbecue grill with $100 in groceries. Tickets are $25 each from any Chamber Director or at the Chamber Office, 1801 Trinity in Liberty. The prize drawing will be on October 25^th at the Liberty Dayton Area Chamber Monthly Luncheon at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. For more information, call 936-336-5736.

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A new addition to this year’s Trinity Valley Exposition Rodeo is the All-American Cowgirl Chicks, a team of 16 young women who combine high-speed mounted drills with music, fireworks and breathtaking trick riding. New TVE Rodeo producer Lancaster Productions brought the team of entertainers on board. The All-American Cowgirl Chicks will perform during the nightly rodeo performances October 18^th through the 20^th.

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The Liberty Panthers are at Kirbyville tonight with a 7 p.m. kick-off against the Wildcats. Since Dayton has the night off, we’ll broadcast Hull-Daisetta at home vs. Buna as the second half of tonight’s Split Channel Sports Broadcast. Turn your stereo radio’s balance control to the left around 7:20 to continue to listen to Liberty vs. Kirbyville or turn to the right for Hull-Daisetta vs. Buna. You can also go to kshn.com, follow the instructions for Split Channel Sports and listen on line. The Hardin Hornets Homecoming Game is against Beaumont Cathedral. Cleveland is on the road at Lumberton. Tarkington and Barbers Hill –like Dayton- have the week off.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.96ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 182 THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 21^ST, 2006-

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75^th District Judge C. T. “Rusty” Hight says he will not recuse himself from presiding over former Liberty Policeman Billie Smith’s trial for aggravated sexual assault and indecency, allegedly committed against a 10-year-old girl. Smith’s attorneys have filed motions asking for Judge Hight’s removal due to bias and a change-of-venue to move the trial to another county. Judge Hight denied any prejudice or bias against Smith and said the motions are nothing more than a tactic to delay Smith’s trial. That had been scheduled to start on October 16^th. Judge Hight said the 2^nd Judicial District Court would appoint another judge to rule on the recusal motion. Until then, no action on the change of venue request can be taken.

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Dayton School Trustees met Tuesday night and authorized the PBK Architectural Firm to go out for bids on construction for the second phase of the Bronco Stadium Renovation Project. The school district will be seeking bids for new modern home bleachers to be built on what is now the stadium’s visitors’ side. The bid package also includes a new larger press box, large concession stand, rest rooms and a 150-vehicle parking lot.

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Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur said it was shortly after 3:30 yesterday afternoon when a trained police dog attacked the infant child of its handler. The incident occurred at the home of Splendora Police Officer Kyle Montgomery in North Liberty County. He was not home and it was the child’s mother and a neighbor who forced the Dutch Shepherd to release the baby and retreat. The infant- thought to be less than 6 months old was airlifted to Houston in undetermined condition. The dog is quarantined at a North Liberty County veterinarian’s office.

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The TVE Children’s Rodeo Pageant Committee is still accepting applications for girls in the 6 to 8, 9 to 11 and 12 and 13 age groups. Event Chair Tonya Neuman said they are no longer taking entries in the 3 to 5-year-old age category. The entry deadline has been extended until Friday September 29^th. For more information, call 936-336-7498.

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Funerals: DeWitt Talmadge Barron, 87, of Baytown, Graveside Services at 3 p.m. today at Palms Memorial Park Cemetery in Dayton.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.90 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 181 WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 20^TH, 2006-

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Former Liberty Police Officer Billie Warren Smith has filed a motion for 75^th District Judge C. T. “Rusty” Hight to dismiss or “recuse” himself from hearing Smith’s trial for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and Indecency with a Child. A second motion requests a change-of venue for the trial to another county. The charges against the 78-year-old man were allegedly committed 7 years ago with a then 10-year-old girl. The legal actions filed by Smith’s attorney accuse Judge Hight of bias against the accused that would deprive him of a fair trial. The motions were filed in the 75^th District Court, we are told Judge Hight can rule on them or have another judge appointed to do so.

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DPS reports indicate Liberty Police Officer Ricky Pearson was in the middle of a traffic stop and arrest on Beaumont Avenue Saturday morning when his patrol car was hit from behind by another vehicle. Officer Pearson was not hurt, but Clayton Bible of Liberty, in the back seat of the police car, suffered minor injuries. Bible was arrested for outstanding warrants. The driver of the car that hit the police vehicle- Bessie Mae Bernson, 52, of Liberty, was cited for failure to control speed, no proof of required insurance, no valid driver license and transporting an unrestrained child in her vehicle.

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Cleveland Fire Chief Steve Wheeler said James and Tiffany Georgous and their six children were away when their double wide manufactured home in the Southern Crossing Subdivision in North Liberty County caught fire Monday. Firefighters from Cleveland, Splendora and Tarkington spent almost 5 hours extinguishing the stubborn blaze. The home’s interior and all of its contents were destroyed. An electrical malfunction in the home’s air conditioning system is the suspected cause.

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Kick off for Friday night’s Liberty Panthers Football game against the Wildcats in Kirbyville has been moved ahead 30 minutes to 7 p.m. Since the Dayton Broncos have the week off, the Hull-Daisetta Bobcats’ game against Buna at home will occupy the right channel of our Split Channel Sports Broadcast on Friday. Turn the balance control of your stereo radio to the left at 7:20 p.m. to continue to listen to Liberty vs. Kirbyville or to the right for Hull-Daisetta vs. Buna. That one kicks off at 7:30 p.m. You can also listen on line at kshn.com.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.90 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 180 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 19^TH, 2006-

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This week marks the first anniversary of Hurricane Rita’s strike on southeast Texas communities still focused on the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina on Louisiana and Mississippi just weeks before. At midnight on September 18^th, Rita was still a tropical depression, but grew to a full-fledged hurricane by noon on the 20^th. As the storm drew nearer, emergency officials in Liberty and Chambers Counties began to prepare to join the largest evacuation in US history. All told some 1.7 million people would flee the Texas Coast ahead of Hurricane Rita.

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The Liberty Athletic Boosters Club is producing schedules and photos for various athletic teams with advertising space available. This is a fund-raiser for the Liberty Boosters Club. The club supports all sports at Liberty- boys and girls- using money raised to pay for items, equipment and supplies, not included in the annual budget, as needed by the athletic director. For more information on the Liberty Boosters Club athletic schedules and its advertising call Lee Ann Brents at 336-1156.

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Rotary Group Study program is taking applications for young professionals between ages 25 and 40 for a 4-5 week trip to Southern India in February 2007. Rotary Club member Don Taylor said those selected can not be a Rotarian or related to a Rotarian, as well as be able and willing to commit 4-5 weeks away from home, work and family. The program allows non-Rotarians to experience different cultures and how their professions differ in other lands. Most expenses, certainly the biggest costs are covered by Rotary for this life changing experience. For more information contact any member of a local Rotary Club nearest you.

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This month’s Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon features the All-American Cowgirl Chicks, a precision horseback drill team and trick riders. Lunch is at noon Wednesday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church’s Marian Hall. Make reservations by calling the Liberty Dayton Chamber Office at 936-336-5736.

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Funerals: Barbara Duncan Nance, 60 of Crosby. Funeral services are at 2 PM today at the Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.98 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 179 MONDAY SEPTEMBER 18^TH, 2006-

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The 98^th Annual Trinity Valley Exposition is only a month away. The TVE Fair and Rodeo starts Tuesday October 17^th and runs through Sunday October 22^nd. TVE General Manager Donnie Smith said the extra day on Sunday features a Mexican Rodeo and another full day of carnival fun. A new event this year is the Farm Skills Contest with teams judged on their performance of a farm related activity. Participants will be eligible for TVE Scholarships. For more information, call 936-336-7455.

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Liberty Police Chief Bill Griffin said there are similarities between the break-ins and thefts at four businesses along or near Hwy 90 Friday morning. Between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. Liberty Police received reports of burglaries at Liberty County Tack, the Country Emporium, My Little Kitchen Restaurant and the Double Cuts Hair Salon just off Beaumont Ave. on Texas St.

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The Liberty County Cancer Awareness Network and “the Rose” a non-profit breast cancer organization have partnered to provide a free Mammogram Screening on October 11^th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Raywood. Dr. Kellie Buchanan of Liberty County CAN, said the screening is for all women who qualify. Eligibility is based on income, health insurance, age and other factors. For more call 936-336-6439 or 281-464-5136.

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There are spots open for kids kindergarten through 12-yrs. with Liberty Co. YMCA After School Program located in Liberty, Dayton and Cleveland. There’s a safe, fun, educational setting for children Mon. thru Fri. from when school’s out to 6:30 p.m. For more information, call the YMCA at 936-257-2888.

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The Liberty Panthers jumped into the win column Friday night with a 20 to 17 victory over Stafford. Dayton Broncos were nipped at the wire by Friendswood 17 to 16. Hull-Daisetta beat Beaumont Cathedral 49 to 6. Hardin lost to West Hardin 26 to 24 while Barbers Hill defeated Bellville 24 to 13.

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Funerals: Jerry Stephenson-68 formerly Liberty. Funeral Tues.-Bryan**Vermer Lee Bradford 85, of Baytown, Serv. were Sat.** Kathleen Dabbs 53, Cleveland, Serv. were Sat.** Clyde Roland Bell 76 –Dayton, serv. @ 10 today at Allison FH** Audrey Abshier 86 graveside Mon. @ 1:30-Fairlawn.**

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.01 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 178 FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 15^TH, 2006-

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Liberty City Council will meet in workshop later this month to consider a state loan program that could mean several million dollars in improvements and repairs to the city’s aging sewer system. City Manager Allen Barnes said council would consider pros and cons and since the city is eligible for what is called tier three funds, the interest rate on such a loan would drop from around 5% down to about 2.5% to 3%. The Liberty City Manager said this could be a way to renovate the sewer system, some of which is more than 39 years old, before any major problems occur.

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Tuesday, Chambers County Judge Jimmy Sylvia appointed retired Texas State Trooper Butch Bean to fill the position of Constable Pct. 4. Butch Bean had already filed as a candidate in the November special election, however when no others filed for the office Judge Sylvia said he went ahead and made the appointment since Bean would be uncontested in November.

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Dayton City Manager David Douglas told city council he is continuing to search for a new city planner to fill the position vacated by Brian LaBorde in June. Douglas said he has interviews planned for next week with 2 or 3 candidates, but he has no idea how long it will take. In the meantime, council Monday night approved a contractual agreement with J. Andrew Rice of Public Management in Cleveland for his company to handle some of those responsibilities on an hourly basis.

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Texas Governor Rick Perry has ordered flags on government buildings to be flown at half-staff now until the day of former Governor Ann Richards funeral. The Governor also asked individuals to lower flags as a sign of respect. Ann Richards died Wednesday. She was 73.

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Today kicks off the 18^th annual Texas Gatorfest in Fort Anahuac Park. Gates open at 6 PM with food, fun and entertainment. Tomorrow the festival runs from 10 am until midnight and Sunday its noon till 6 PM. Tickets are available at the gate or online. Link to Texas Gatorfest from our site, www.kshn.com.

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Funerals: Agnes Castle, 81 of Liberty. Services 11 AM Saturday at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Liberty.

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

-VOLUME 21 NO. 177 THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 14^TH, 2006-

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Several law enforcement agencies teamed up for an undercover drug sting that netted a total 16 kilos of cocaine, 4 arrests and three vehicles seized. Lt. Greg Hare of the DPS Narcotics Division said some 20 officers converged on the truck parking lot beside the Dayton McDonald’s on Hwy 90 just before noon yesterday. That was the site of the undercover drug buy where 11 kilos of cocaine were seized with the four suspects. Another 5 kilos of the drug were later found at the Baytown home of one of the suspects. Lt. Hare said the four alleged drug dealers were all described as Hispanic men in their mid to late 40’s from Nuevo Laredo, but currently residents of Baytown.

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Joe Landry, the Mayor of Old River –Winfree was arrested and charged with abuse of official capacity. The long time mayor of the west Chambers County community is alleged to have used city money to buy a computer for his daughter’s use. Sheriff Joe LaRive said he was arrested on September 7^th and released on his own recognizance. The charge is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $4000.

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Liberty City Council met Tuesday night and approved a new budget of $19,426,470 for the upcoming fiscal year. In keeping with the council’s preference for merit-based pay raises for city employees, City Manager Allen Barnes said a maximum 6% pay increase is included in the budget though not all will qualify for that large a raise based on their evaluation scores. Council also approved the city’s new tax rate at 56 cents per $100 of assessed property value. That’s down from last year’s rate of 59.90 cents.

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The death of Alejandra Quintanilla, 22 of Houston, whose body was found last month on FM 565 in Chambers County has been ruled a drug overdose. Chambers County Sheriff Joe LaRive said they now believe those with the young woman when she died panicked and dumped her body in his county. They are still looking for anyone one with information. Call the Chambers County Sheriffs Department at 409-267-8331.

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Funerals: George Allen Spann, 54 of Liberty. Memorial service Friday at 11 a.m. at Neal Funeral Home – Cleveland. ** Rodney Brown, 59, of Dayton, Services at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Pace Stancil Funeral Home –Dayton.

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

-VOLUME 21 NO. 176 WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 13^TH, 2006-

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Liberty County Commissioners yesterday voted to approve the tax rate and budget for the Fiscal Year 2006-2007. The tax rate was set at .5623 per $100 dollars of valuation. The budget was approved at $27.8 million dollars, with tax revenues providing an estimated $18.9 million. In other action, commissioners approved early voting dates, times and locations. Commissioners also approved the creation of what is called the Liberty County Rural Rail Transportation District #1. The vote was tied Todd Fontenot and Norman Brown voting for, Lee Groce and Melvin Hunt against, with Liberty County Judge Lloyd Kirkham casting the deciding vote for its creation.

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As expected, the Dayton City Council met Monday night and unanimously approved a new tax rate of 64.49 cents per $100 of property value. Council also approved a $17.7 million budget for Fiscal Year 2006-2007. In other action, Council approved bids on two major street paving projects for $36,484. The contract approved is with Ariola Paving Company of Houston for a two-inch asphalt mix overlay on Bryan Street and also a similar project on Lawrence Street.

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Entries are now being accepted for the 2006 TVE Rodeo Pageant for boys and girls ages 3 –13 on October 21^st during the Trinity Valley Exposition. According to Pageant Chair Tanya Newman, the competition is divided into 4 separate age groups. Cost is to enter is $30. Entry forms are available at Baskins in Liberty, All About Fun in Dayton, Maci Feed and Supply in Hardin, Cannon Farm and Ranch in Cleveland and on line at the TVE Web Site. Link there from kshn.com, click on upcoming events. The deadline for entries is close of business Friday September 22^nd.

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In response to the recent loss of data by the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Better Business Bureau has established a web site to inform veterans how to monitor their credit and prevent thieves from stealing their identity. Debbie Bridgeman of the Beaumont Office of the Better Business Bureau said the site includes information on putting a fraud alert on your credit report and provides links to the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Veterans Affairs. That web site is www.military.bbb.org.

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

-VOLUME 21 NO. 175 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 12^TH, 2006-

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Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur said his department is continuing to investigate the death of Brooke Erin Blackerby. The 15 month old girl died last Thursday as a result of injuries she received over the Labor Day weekend. The child’s baby sitter, 21 year old Brandon Roy Vestal said she fell from a second floor balcony.

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The Liberty Municipal Library is holding an Ice Cream Social to introduce the community to the Library Expansion project. Fundraising committee member Amy Milentz said it is an opportunity to see drawings of three options for expansion. Amy Milentz said this is not a fundraiser, only a chance for folks to learn about what is planned for the library. The ice cream social is tomorrow at 4 p.m. at the library on Sam Houston St. in Liberty. For more information call the library at 936 336 8901.

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The Federal Emergency Management Agency is asking for the public to help in reporting fraudulent assistance claims. FEMA officials say so far at least 26,000 allegedly false claims for federal disaster help have been identified after last year’s hurricanes. The agency is currently trying to recover more than $114 million. FEMA asks anyone who is aware, or suspects fraud to report it to local law-enforcement or to the Texas Attorney General’s Office at 800-337-3928.

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The Chain O’ Lakes Resort and Conference Center has announced they will no longer offer camping – tent or RV sites- to the general public. Co-owner Dr. Jimmy Smith said the focus now is on the resort’s accommodations and special events markets, was well as some new additions including a large new swimming pool set to begin construction this month. Chain O’ Lakes will honor all existing camping reservations and still offer tent camping to chaperoned groups like scout troops.

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General admission and student tickets for Friday night’s Liberty Panthers home game against the Stafford Spartons are on sale at the LISD Administration Building through noon Friday.

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Funerals: Lucille Antonia Fontenot, 85 of Raywood. Services this morning at 10:30 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Raywood.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.71 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 174 MONDAY SEPTEMBER 11^TH, 2006-

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During tomorrow’s Liberty County Commissioners meet they are expected to approve a contract with Massachusetts-based Civigenics company to assume operations of the Liberty Co.Jail. Commissioners voted earlier to accept bids for jail operations after Corrections Corporation of America proposed a drastic charge hike for a contract renewal to do the job they have been doing for years. Sheriff Greg Arthur said Civigenics had been in the jail business for 11 years with correctional facilities in 14 states. Sheriff Arthur said company officials have indicated they intend to hire as many of present CCA employees as possible. We are told their proposal is far less than CCA’s.

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A Liberty man died instantly in a wreck on US 90 west of Crosby Wednesday. Ronnie Dean Howze - 45 was a longshoreman who lived here about a year.

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State health officials confirm a human case of West Nile Virus in Liberty Co. Local Health Authority Dr. Steven Ellerbe said many are stung by infected mosquitoes but less than 1% of those come down with the potentially deadly disease. Dr. Ellerbe said the State is not reporting mosquitoes with West Nile in Liberty Co. so this victim was probably bitten elsewhere.

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The 5^th Dayton Chamber Sporting Clay Shoot fund-raiser, sponsored by Legend Bank, is Sunday October 1^st at Pecan Meadow Sporting Center in Hardin. Cost is $65 per shooter. A barbecue lunch will be 11:30 to 1. Cash prizes will be given to the most points overall and the runner up. For more information on entering or sponsoring the event call 936-257-2393.

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Here are results of high school football action Friday night. Dayton shutout Nacogdoches 14-0. Liberty lost to Hamshire Fannett, 12-0. Hull-Daisetta beat Kountze 22-0 while Groveton beat Hardin 15 to 6. It was Barbers Hill over Jasper 26 to 7 and Hardin-Jefferson topping Cleveland 41 to 14.

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Funerals: Ronnie Dean Howze-45 @ 2, Tues. @ Allison.** “Polly” Bailey, 87-Dayton, Services were Sun.** Bertha Bea Kindle, 78-Batson, Serv. were Sunday. ** Jerry Lee Keener, Jr.36-Dayton, Serv. @ 11, Word of Faith Ch. Dayton.**Arlie Richardson-Moss Hill Serv. 2PM Mon.@ Pace Stancil-Dayton.

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

-VOLUME 21 NO. 173 FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 8^TH, 2006-

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Liberty County Sheriff Greg Arthur said two Baytown men – Kenneth Dollery, 22, and Hollis Buckley, 21, have been arrested and charged with the Capital Murder of 57-year-old Barney Ross Goodman. It was initially thought the legless, double amputee had been thrown from a North Liberty County Bridge, but investigators now say the two suspects took him to the river’s edge and beat him. The Viet Nam War vet died of injuries he suffered in the assault. Sheriff Arthur said an ATM security camera caught the two suspects using the victim’s card attempting to withdraw money from a recently deposited disability check from his account. Buckley and Dollery are currently being held in the Liberty County Jail.

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Yesterday morning, 15- month- old Brooke Erin Blackerby was taken off life support and died of injuries she received over the Labor Day holiday weekend. The child’s baby sitter, her mothers boyfriend, 21 year old Brandon Roy Vestal, first said the child fell off some steps, and then changed the story to say she had fallen from a second floor balcony. Sgt. Investigator Kenny Dagle with the Liberty County Sheriff’s Department said his investigation continues.

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For the last several years, the Bikes for Christmas Program has made the holiday a little more special for local kids. Organizers recently held their first meeting and one of those at the center of the annual effort- Liberty businessman David Milam- said the goal this year is to provide 1,000 bikes for Liberty County kids. For more information on donating time or money to the Bikes for Christmas Program, contact David Milam at 936-334-9500.

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The Liberty Panthers are on the road at Hamshire Fannett to face the Longhorns tonight, while the Dayton Broncos host Nacogdoches. Both games kick off at 7:30 p.m. Our live Split Channel Broadcast of both games begins around 7:20. Turn your stereo radio’s balance control to the left to hear Liberty vs. Hamshire Fannett or the right for Dayton vs. Nacogdoches. Or listen on line at www.kshn.com. Click on ‘Listen Live’ and follow the directions for Split Channel Sports.

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Funerals: Margaret Cole Dugat, 96, formerly of Dayton, Services at 2 p.m. tomorrow at Old River Baptist Church.

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.51 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 172 THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 7^TH, 2006-

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Dayton resident Jerry Keenan has died from injuries he received after being struck by a pick up truck while walking on Highway 90 in Liberty around 1 AM Wednesday. Liberty Officer Aaron Venegas said the accident was only a few car-lengths behind his patrol car. He said Keenan stepped off the grass and into the path of Rodney Gray’s westbound truck. The victim was airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital, where he died around noon.

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The family of murder victim Barney Ross Goodman is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of his killers. The double amputee suffered fatal injuries when he was thrown off the San Jacinto River Bridge over the Labor Day Weekend. Anyone with information is asked to call the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office at 936-336-4500.

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Cleveland Police say the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office used dental records to positively identify the body found in Southeast Houston on August 25^th as 50-year-old Gloria Ryan. Investigators believe the Cleveland woman was murdered by her 18-year-old son Corderral Smith and his friend, Jason Rizzi, age 20, of Humble. The two suspects remain in the Liberty County Jail, held without bond on Capital Murder charges. Cleveland Police said the autopsy results confirm that Ms. Ryan’s death is a homicide but provided no further information on the cause of her death.

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Assistant Tarkington Volunteer Fire Chief Dalton Gregory said his department was called to a house fire on CR# 2228 in the Green Acres Subdivision just after 4 a.m. yesterday. Firefighters from North Liberty County, Splendora and Cleveland also fought the blaze at the abandoned house but both it and a child’s playhouse nearby were destroyed. The unoccupied home had no utilities and the fire’s origin is described as ‘suspicious”. Liberty County Fire Marshall Jim Wilson is investigating.

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Funerals: Jimmie Lee Rusk, 67, of Huffman, Services at 10 a.m. Saturday at Allison Funeral Service in Liberty. ** Richard H. “Dick” Ames Jr., 78, of Kenefick, No public services planned. ** Dicie Prophet Sanders, 87, formerly of Liberty, Services at 11 a.m. today at Trinity Valley Baptist Church in Liberty. **

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.51 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 171 WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 6^TH, 2006-

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Liberty City Manager Allen Barnes said the target date, which does remain flexible, for opening the new City Hall Complex, is October 2^nd. The original price for the building was just over $2 million, and, as in most construction projects, from the smallest home to the largest office building, changes happen adding to the cost of construction. City Manager Allen Barnes said change orders for the city hall amounted to about 1.5% of the total cost, less then half of what was expected for a project of that size. Probably the most visible of the city’s capital improvement projects, construction began last October, just days after Hurricane Rita made a run through here.

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The 4^th Annual Dayton Rotary Club’s “Blast From the Past” Classic Car and Bike Show is this Saturday at Woodrow Wilson Junior High in Dayton. In addition to awesome vehicles and motorcycles on display for the public, there will be barbecue, and entertainment for all ages. The show is free to the public. For more information or to enter a car or bike, contact Ken DeFoor at 936 258 7994.

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Liberty Co. Sgt. Investigator Kenny Dagle said the story of how 15 month old Brooke Erin Blackerby was injured has changed from a fall off the front porch stairs, to a fall from a second floor balcony. Sheriff’s Department Sgt. Dagle said Brandon Roy Vestal says the girl fell about 14 hours before the early morning call to EMS. Vestal told investigators he called for help when the little girl was unresponsive.

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Starting Sept. 11^th, the Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge will be accepting applications for a limited number of hunting permits for waterfowl, big game, upland game, muzzleloader and bow hunting only. Refuge Director Stuart Marcus said applications are available on the refuge website, www.southwest.fws.gov/refuges. For more information call the Wildlife Refuge Office at 936 336 9847.

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Funerals: George Harold Schultz, 92 of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Graveside services 10 am Thursday at the Hardin Chapel Cemetery – Hardin * Roger Allen Husby, Jr. 44 of Old River-Winfree. Services today at 10 am at Robey Funeral Home – Baytown *

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

-VOLUME 21 NO. 170 TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 5^TH, 2006-

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Liberty County Sheriff’s Department Investigators say a Baytown man, believed to be a recent resident of Liberty, was killed when two men threw the double amputee off the San Jacinto River Bridge in the Plum Grove Area Friday evening. 57-year-old military veteran Barney Goodman fell about 30 feet and suffered severe internal injuries. The dying, leg less man crawled some 200 feet up the river embankment until he found help. Barney Goodman died of his injuries at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston Saturday around noon. Investigators believe the two suspects also robbed the victim of his most recent disability check before murdering him.

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Dayton Police say three men with Liberty addresses were eastbound on Hwy. 90 Sunday night when, for still undetermined reasons, the vehicle left the roadway. The driver, Luciano Zarate Gerardo, 41, was ejected from the vehicle and killed. Pedro Santos, 55, was airlifted to the hospital with severe injuries. 25-year-old Gerardo Santos had only minor cuts.

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A 15-month-old infant suffered severe injuries Sunday morning around 2 when she reportedly fell down a flight of steps at her home in Hull. Sheriff’s Department Sgt. Kenny Dagle said Brandon Roy Vestal, 21, was baby-sitting Brooke Erin Blackerby while the child’s mother, Carrie was at work. The infant girl’s heartbeat was restarted twice with CPR at Liberty-Dayton Community Hospital. She remains in critical condition, Sergeant Dagle said she might not recover.

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The Annual Texas Gatorfest is Friday September 15^th through Sunday September 17^th at Fort Anahuac Park with a variety of gator-related events including rides, a street dance, educational programs and more. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors and kids under 5 get in free. Tickets are available at the gate or visit the Gatorfest web site by linking there from ours at kshn.com. Just click on “upcoming events”.

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Funerals: Winfred Eli Boothe, 87, of Baytown, Services held Sunday. ** Edith Harriet Flynn, 85, of Liberty, Services at 10 a.m. today at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Liberty. ** J.W. Caldwell, 69. Funeral services today at 3 PM at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home – Cleveland.

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

-VOLUME 21 NO. 169 FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 1^ST, 2006-

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Tuesday night the Liberty City Council set rental fees and related charges on the new city hall auditorium facility. After reviewing the rental fees charged by other cities in this area for similar facilities, council unanimously approved a fee of $700 for renting the auditorium for a 12 hour period between noon and midnight. Liberty residents will receive a 50% discount on that fee. There will be an additional $50 charge for every half-hour after midnight. The rental deposit is $150 or $500 if alcoholic beverages will be served at the event, to be returned when the event is over. Council also authorized City Manager Allen Barnes to negotiate a fee with non-profit groups and service organizations who use the auditorium on a regular basis.

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The 2006 High School Football Season opens tonight. Liberty is at home against Bridge City and Dayton hosts West Orange Stark. Both games kick off at 7:30. All Nine Sports Live Split Channel Broadcast of those games starts around 7:20 with Liberty on the left side of our stereo signal and Dayton on the right. You can also listen to the game of your choice on line at kshn.com. Just follow the instructions for Split Channel Sports.

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DPS Sgt. Chuck Havard said every available trooper in the state would be out on patrol this holiday weekend, looking for speeders, seat belt law violators and drunk drivers. He reminds motorists to obey the law and have a safe Labor Day.

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US Congressman Kevin Brady said the period in which Texans can deduct sales tax paid from their federal income taxes has been extended for another 2 years. Initially, the legislation Brady sponsored allowed the sales tax deduction for only the past two years. Brady said the goal is to make the deduction permanent but admitted 43 states oppose the idea and only 7 do.

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The Liberty County Courthouse and all City Offices in Liberty and Dayton will be closed Monday for the Labor Day Holiday. There is no garbage service in either Liberty or Dayton on Monday. Trash will be picked up on the next scheduled service day. All banks and post offices will also be closed.

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Funerals: Ashley Jeanene Hodges, 22, of Anahuac, Services at 4 p.m. today at 1^st Baptist Church in Anahuac. **

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LAKE RELEASE: 1,000 CFS LIBERTY BRIDGE: 5.52 ASL