April 18, 2012 Buna Beacon

Buna Beacon WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

www.bunabeacon.com

VOLUME 22, ISSUE 34

50 CENTS

County getting bids on water and drain projects

By Amber Hawk Beacon Editor After months of work on outstanding grant projects, the Jasper County commissioners agreed last Monday, Apr. 9 to authorize the engineering firm of Goodwin-Lasiter of Lufkin to advertise for bids on several of BUNA ELEMENTARY STUDENT Council members showed these projects in Jasper County. off the aluminum tabs that were collected across campus.

Some of the grant monies are scheduled to be used to upgrade services in the Water Control and Improvement District in Buna.

The county originally received a community development block grant (CDBG) from the Texas

By Tina Cooley “The process began back in Beacon Reporter October with a note home to Buna Elementary School Stu- families notifying them of the dent Council members began upcoming event and asking them making plans for a community to begin collecting the tabs at service project at the beginning home,” said Student Council of the 2011-12 school year. sponsor Amber Flowers.

Secretary Shelby Young, Vice The length of time between the President Sara Tucker, and Presi- initial announcement and the dent Dusti Boudreaux discussed start of the collection allowed ideas for planning and imple- students and their families ample menting a service project of time to pile up the tabs. collecting and recycling alumi“Profits from the coke tab num tabs at the elementary recycling may seem minimal, but campus. the impact of recycling is pricePlans were made, and the less.” said Flowers. “A greater collection began on Feb. 27 and See Recycling... Page 2A ran through Mar. 8.

BES students learn benefits of recycling

Department of Rural Affairs in early 2011 for on-site sewer projects.

The grant, which was funded to provide on-site sewer (septic systems) to low-to-moderate income families, has gone through a few changes since it was first given to the county.

There were four initial home sites in the county that qualified for the grant, and grant consultant Leslie Waxman told the commissioners that it might be possible to do an additional 10 home sites.

During the water district’s

regular meeting last September, Superintendent Henry Ogden told the board that he wasn’t sure what the next move of the county would be, although he had already spotted sites in the Buna water district including homes on Hwy. 62 and Hwy. 1004.

Now, Ogden said he’s glad the commissioners are advertising for the bids since the sewer grant project will extend water service in the existing water district to additional homes.

The water district board is expected to discuss the project at their May 14 regular meeting.

County Judge Mark Allen said that Goodwin-Lasiter will also advertise for bids on the Gum Slough drainage project, which will assist in opening drains by clearing hurricane debris in the Gum Slough area, thereby allowing water to drain off quicker in south Jasper County.

“The area we are talking about is from Hwy. 2246 to the Orange County line,” said Jasper County Precinct 4 Commissioner Vance Moss.

The Gum Slough drainage See County... Page 9A

- BEACON BRIEFS Chamber banquet set for May 5 The Buna Chamber of Commerce annual banquet will be Saturday, May 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the MAC building of the First United Methodist Church on Hwy. 62. The Citizen of the Year will be recognized. Tickets are $15 and will be available at the Chamber of Commerce office and at the door.

Preschool story time today at 10:30 a.m.

The Buna Public Library will host their weekly preschool story time at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Apr. 18 for preschoolers and their parents or guardians. Preschoolers will enjoy a story and craft about elephants.

Buna ISD facilities assessment workshop The Buna Independent School District board of trustees will meet for a workshop to discuss the facilities assessment and create a plan to meet the educational needs of students. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Apr. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Administration building, and community members are invited to attend.

Masonic Lodge hosts award night The Buna Masonic Lodge will host a fish fry at the lodge beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Apr. 21. Also, this year’s Golden Trowel award recipient, Jim Hamilton, will be recognized.

Buna Public Library garage and link sale The Buna Public Library will hold a garage sale and link sale on Saturday, Apr. 27 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. All proceeds from the sale will benefit the library.

Red Hat Ladies to meet Thursday The Red Hat Ladies will meet Thursday, Apr. 19 at 6 p.m. at ...

Eighth grade prom meeting Thursday The last eighth prom meeting will be held on Thursday, Apr. 19 beginning at 6 p.m. at Fausto’s.

Basketball tournament Apr. 28 Jeff Martin’s Hoopfest fundraiser will be held on Saturday, Apr. 28 at Hull-Daisetta Junior High in Raywood beginning at 9 a.m. for guys and girls. For more information, contact Buna Junior High School teacher and coach Jeff Martin at (936) 3467769.

Bon Wier school reunion Apr. 28 Former students of Bon Wier High School are invited to a reunion on Saturday, Apr. 28 at the Bon Wier Pentecostal Church annex beginning at 10 a.m. Condiments will be furnished. Bring a covered dish and pictures from the good ol’ days. For more information, contact Delma Eaves at 783-2882 or Terrie Brinkley at 397-4337.

Democratic Primary Convention Apr. 21 The Jasper County Democratic Primary Convention will be held on Saturday, Apr. 21 at the Jasper County Courthouse, 121 N. Austin St., Jasper in the Commissoner’s Courtroom at 10 a.m.

Be sure to bring your new voter registration card.

EVADALE AND BUNA volunteer firefighters worked to put out the Monday morning fire at the Hopkins’ residence.

Monday morning blaze destroys Evadale home

By Amber Hawk Beacon Editor A structure fire on Hwy. 96 Monday morning left an Evadale family without a home.

At approximately 11 a.m., the Evadale Volunteer Fire Department responded to a 911 call of a structure fire off Hwy. 96, about one mile north of the overpass in Evadale.

By the time Steve Conner arrived on scene, smoke was pouring out of the double roofed single-wide mobile home.

“When the fire hits the air, it’s

difficult,” said Conner. “It just multiplies.”

Owner Stacy Hopkins was inside the home when the fire started, but she got out safely.

Conner said that when he arrived, the fire was fully involved.

“It was a 100 percent loss,” he said. “We believe it was started because of electrical issues.”

According to Conner, after getting her children off to school, Hopkins plugged in an iron, and the electricity went out.

“Stacy said she went to her

father’s house, went to WalMart, and when she came home she could smell something,” said Conner. “She turned the breakers off, but at that point, it was too late.”

Although no person was injured, the Hopkins’ dog died in

the fire.

The Buna Volunteer Fire Department also assisted in fighting the fire.

“This is the first structure fire we have had in a while,” said Conner. “We always hate to see this kind of thing happen.”

Ten local individuals indicted by grand jury

By Amber Hawk Beacon Editor The Jasper County grand jury met last Tuesday, April 10, handing down indictments on 10 local individuals.

Terry Bruce Bagwell, 63, of Buna, was indicted on a count of delivery of a controlled substance and a count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver from alleged incidents in August of 2009.

Robin Rene Tomplait, 51, of Call, was indicted on a count of possession of a controlled substance from an alleged incident in July 2009.

Shane Kibodeaux, 41, of Kirbyville, was indicted on a count of possession of a controlled substance from an alleged incident in August of 2009.

Kendrick Keshun Collins, 24, of Brookeland, was indicted on a

count of tampering or fabricating physical evidence from an alleged October 2009 incident.

Rocky Shyann Craft, 20, of Brookeland, was indicted on a count of aggravated sexual assault charge from an alleged incident in July of 2006.

Marcus Monticello Hunt, 41, of Brookeland, was indicted on a count of delivery of a controlled substance from an alleged September 2009 incident.

Daniel Phillip White, 28, of Port Neches, was indicted on eight different counts of burglary of a habitation from alleged incidents in January of 2012.

Robert Edward Pointe, 42, of Colmesneil, was indicted on a count of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle from an alleged December 2011 incident.

Ross stays at home as BHS Principal

By Amber Hawk Beacon Editor Buna Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Robin Perez officially announced last Wednesday morning, Apr. 11, that current Buna High School Assistant Principal Nathan Ross will be the Principal for the 201213 school year.

“We are confident that Mr. Ross will continue to embrace our Cougar traditions and insure that our students are provided a quality instructional program,” See Jury... Page 9A said Perez.

A 1991 BHS graduate, Ross says being named Principal is something he never dreamed of.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve this great district in another capacity,” said Ross.

Ross is currently in his third year as Assistant Principal at BHS, but he has served Buna ISD in many ways.

After graduating from high school, Ross went to Panola Junior College on a baseball scholarship. He later transferred See Ross... Page 10A

PAGE 2A, BUNA BEACON

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

Recycling From page 1A

MEMBERS OF THE First United Methodist Church in Buna recently took a trip to the Big Thicket where they learned about our local environment and making a difference.

ONE WAY THAT some Buna residents give back and make a difference is by picking up trash off the side of the road.

Local residents make an Museum opens exhibit environmental difference inspired by the oil spill

By Tina Cooley Beacon Reporter A group of local Buna residents and members of First United Methodist Church, organized by social action group leader, Frances Perry, visited the Big Thicket Preserve on Apr. 5 to learn about the environment. The group met at the church parking lot in the early morning hours and set out on their day of exploring and fellowship.

“There are so many interesting parts of the Big Thicket area,” said participant Kay Simmons.

The group learned that most of the towns in the Big Thicket area developed in the late 19th century.

They mainly supported the lumber industry, but as transportation grew many of the towns became suburbs of larger cities like Houston and Beaumont.

“It’s a place that you should take your grandkids,” said Simmons. “The learning possibilities are endless, whether for a few hours or overnight.”

The Buna group finished up their tour just in time for a lunch stop at Mama Jack’s in Kountze before their return home.

The social action group has also participated in numerous

activities throughout the year, including collecting soup can labels, recycling computers and cell phones, and actively conserving water.

Members of the First United Methodist Church continued in the efforts to educate as well as be active participants by helping to keep Buna clean.

On Saturday, Apr. 14, ten members cleaned up their adopted section of highway along 253, from the railroad track to Cypress Creek.

While cleaning the two-mile stretch on both sides of the road, church members collected 22 bags of trash, one couch cushion, several used tires, and a $1 bill in their three-and-a-half hour clean up efforts.

“Those who helped with this clean up are no longer fans of styrofoam or grocery sacks,” said Simmons.

The First United Methodist Church group has demonstrated how easy it is to make a difference in the environment.

Something as simple taking a tour and learning about your environment or spending a few hours picking up trash can make a big difference.

The Port Arthur Historical Society invites the public to a free opening reception for the temporary exhibition Roscoe and the Pelican Rescue on view at the Museum of the Gulf Coast through May 28.

The event will take place on Earth Day, April 22 from 2 to 4 p.m. and will feature a presentation on pelicans given by Mary Anne Weber from the Houston Audubon Society.

Nearly two years ago, on April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded causing an environmental disaster that is now considered the second largest in U.S. history, behind the Dust Bowl. Located about 40 miles southeast of the Louisiana coast, the explosion caused the Deepwater Horizon to burn and sink, and started a massive offshore oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico which left a lasting impact on the diverse coastalmarine ecology of the Gulf Coast.

In response, a slew of agencies and organizations both public and private worked tirelessly to rescue wildlife impacted by the spill.

Inspired by this effort,

children’s author Lynn Rowe Reed wrote and illustrated Roscoe and the Pelican Rescue which tells the story of two cousins who visit a beach in Louisiana only to discover that it’s closed.

When their dog finds an oilcovered pelican, the two learn how to rescue oil-covered animals and give them a fighting chance in a precarious world.

In addition to Reed’s whimsical illustrations, the exhibition includes early sketches from the book, photographs of pelican rescue efforts, a hands-on station, the HBO documentary Saving Pelican 895, and an art installation by Galveston based artist Ann Wood which simulates oil covered birds.

The Museum of the Gulf Coast is owned and operated by the Port Arthur Historical Society in partnership with Lamar State College - Port Arthur and the City of Port Arthur.

It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information or to schedule a tour please call 409982-7000 or visit www.museumofthegulfcoast.org.

understanding of how projects like recycling coke tabs at Buna elementary benefits everyone is the goal.”

Students brought tabs in and deposited them into a milk jug in their individual classrooms. As the jugs got full, they were emptied into a large garbage bag in a sealed location and held until the collection was taken for recycling.

A bulletin board, displayed in the main hallway near the cafeteria, showed a visual interpretation of how each grade level was doing on the project. As the grade levels emptied their milk jugs into the larger collection, a mark was added to their display in order to show the total tabs collected by grade levels. In the spirit of competition, grade levels challenged each other for who would bring the most tabs. The winning grade level, third grade, received a popcorn party and movie day on Apr. 5. Prekindergarten will also be rewarded due to the large amount of tabs collected by such a small group of students.

The total number of tabs collected weighed in at 262 pounds of aluminum. At just 49 cents per pound, the monetary profit totalled $125.

In addition, the students and staff at Buna Elementary School gained valuable lessons that will last a lifetime through the ideas and efforts of the Student Council recycling project.

The recycling project was not only a learning experience for elementary students, but it also helped raise community awareness about ways in which recycling or reusing household items, as well as reducing waste,

can better their environment.

Whether recycling coke cans or tabs, reusing plastic grocery bags, or reducing waste by failure to limit water usage, students learned that we all play a part in daily efforts to preserve our Earth. Opportunities exist to be environmentally friendly even beyond the celebrated Earth Day on Apr. 22.

With an emphasis on conservation of resources, the Student Council members along with their sponsor made plans to replace a large oak tree, previously on the elementary playground, that died as a result of the drought conditions over the past year.

Although an awning was added to the campus playground to help with shading for the students during their outdoor recess times, the overall shading was greatly reduced as a result of the tree loss.

Flowers spoke with Clark’s Tree Farm who graciously donated an oak tree for the students to plant on the playground as a final step in their project. Jody Folk, Special Services director at Buna Independent School District, along with maintenance personnel, prepared the ground and readied the spot for the arrival of the new foliage.

Plans were made for the tree to be planted on Monday morning, Apr. 16, but the weather conditions caused the project to be postponed.

An official date for the planting of the oak tree will be set in the near future, as weather permits.

Continue reading the Buna Beacon for follow-up coverage of the oak tree planting by the Buna Elementary Student Council members.

You can’t change the past, but you can change the future.

Recycling makes a difference.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

PAGE 3A, BUNA BEACON

PAGE 4A, BUNA BEACON

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

The Whole Truth Pastors plan for

“I WOULD NOT HAVE YOU IGNORANT.” “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.” 1 Corinthians 12:1. Paul discusses spiritual gifts, miraculous powers, in chapter 12, 13 and 14.

“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are diversities of ministrations, and the same Lord. And there are diversities of workings, but the same the God, who worketh all things in all.” Verses 4-6. The unity of the three divine beings in this area is indicated. They are described as gifts, ministrations and workings.

“But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit to profit withal.” Verse 7. The evidence or manifestation of the existence of the Spirit and his working, was for the profit of the disciples then.

“For to one is given through the Spirit the word of wisdom and to another the word of knowledge, according to the same Spirit.”

Verse 8. States the unity of purpose in these gifts, for the profit of all.

“To another faith, in the same Spirit; and to another gifts of healings, in the one Spirit; and to another workings of miracles; and to another prophecy; and to another discernings of spirits; to another diverse kinds of tongues; and to another the interpretation of tongues.” Verses 9-10. Thus completing the list of nine spiritual gifts.

“But all these worketh the one and the same Spirit, dividing to each one severally even as he will.” Verse 11. Distributing different gifts to different people.

But these gifts would cease with the death of all the apostles, for they were given “through the laying on of the apostles’ hands.”

Acts 8:18. “Love never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall be done away; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall be done away.” 1 Corinthians 13:8.

Northwest Buna Church of Christ, (409)658-7578

local observance of National Day of Prayer, May 3 The Buna Ministerial Alliance is hosting the National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 3 at the Methodist Activity Center of the First United Methodist Church of Buna.

Area pastors are joining together to help facilitate this community prayer service that will consist of fellowship, worship, special music and a time of prayer for our nation.

Giving the first blessing will be Robert Carter of Genesis Baptist, followed by a recognition of guests by Delbert Milstead of Central Baptist.

Paul Swearingen of Friendship Baptist will read Scripture, and Tracy Speed of First Baptist will lead the audience in music. Bill Jobe of the First United Methodist Church will give a devotional message.

Special prayers will be held for national, state, local, church, school, and law enforcement leaders by Calvin Harris of Antioch Baptist, Paul Boughan of First Baptist, Juan Esparza of Iglesia Bautista, Richard Dykes of United Pentecostal, and Dennis Owens of First Assembly.

The National Day of Prayer was first instituted in 1775 when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom

in forming the nation. President Truman signed a joint resolution

by Congress declaring an annual national day of prayer. President Reagan amended the resolution to declare the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer.

This year’s National Day of Prayer theme is “One Nation Under God” and is from Psalm 33:12 which says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.”

Community members are invited to the free luncheon on Thursday, May 3 beginning at 11:30 p.m. followed by a prayer service at noon at the First United Methodist Church in Buna.

Churches are asked to bring sandwiches, salads and chips for food. The program will conclude at 12:45 p.m. to allow those who are working to return to their jobs.

All the community including pastors, governmental leaders, school officials, law enforcement, the military and concerned citizens are encouraged to come and join in this special time. Each participant will receive a personal guide which will list the leaders of our nation, state and community.

For more information, contact Delbert Milstead at 994-3641.

Obituaries Annamae Carter Annamae Flossie Wheeler Carter, 86, died n Apr. 11 in Vidor.

Funeral services were held on Apr. 14 at Broussard’s in Silsbee with graveside service following at Freeman Cemetery in New Caney.

Survivors include children Ben Carter of Jasper, Don Carter (Pam) of Waxahachie, Kay Stringer (Joe) of Evadale, and Ann Carter of The Republic of China; a host of grandchildren, great- grandchildren and greatgreat-grandchildren; brothers Ed Wheeler of Cleveland, Oscar Wheeler of California, and Frank Wheeler of Dallas, GA; sister Emma Emrie of San Antonio; numerous nieces and nephews; as well as a large number of friends.

Juanita Little Juanita “Nita” Little of Granbury, 69, died Apr. 7 in Granbury.

Funeral services were held Apr. 10 at Acton United Methodist Church with interment following at Carlton Cemetery in Carlton.

Survivors include her husband Rev. Ferel Little of Granbury; son Wes Little(Kay) of Pineland; daughter De’Anne Evans (Michael) of Fort Worth; grandchildren Ely and Ethan Little and Madison and Blake Evans; mother

Marie Sharp of Granbury; brother Gene Sharp (Billie) of Fort Worth; uncles Rey Walton of Fort Worth and John Walton of Carlton; and several nieces and nephews.

Rev. David Mims Reverend David N. Mims, 78, of Buna, died Apr. 11 in Beaumont.

A memorial service was held Apr. 14 at Claybar Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home.

Survivors include wife Barbara Mims; children Kevin Chance (Patricia), Tricia Saunders (Jim), Tina Newcomb, and Treena Robinson (Jimmy); eight grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; and cousins.

Sammy Ricks Sammy Charles Ricks, 67, of Wildwood, died Apr. 9 at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Funeral services were held Apr. 12 at Kountze Church of Christ with interment following at Old Hardin Cemetery in Kountze under the direction of Broussard’s in Kountze.

Survivors include wife Dottye Ricks of Wildwood; daughter Nena Perdue (Clint) of Grandview, MO; sister Charlotte Fillingim (George) of Livingston; brother Jimmy Ricks (Janette) of Evadale; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other friends and relatives.

Church Bulletin Bourgeois gumbo at First United Methodist

Local Church Directory

Antioch Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Calvin L. Harris 994-3552

Buna’s Bread of Life Church Pastor Byron Johnson Buna Cowboy Church Pastor Joedy Burnett 454-8775

Church of God in Christ Supt. Curtis Jones • 994-3603 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Bishop Sean Peterson 594-1225 Faith Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Gene Maddox 382-2784

Buna United Pentecostal Church Rev. Richard Dykes 994-2501

Faith Outreach Church of God Rev. Reginald Brandenburg 994-5897

Calvary Apostolic Tabernacle Evadale Pastor Steve McMullin

First Assembly of God Rev. Dennis Owens • 994-2670

Central Baptist Church Rev. Delbert Milstead 994-3641 Central Baptist Church, Evadale Rev. Roger Hoogterp 276-1700 Church of Christ 994-2075

First Baptist Church Rev. Paul Boughan • 994-3517 First Baptist Church, Evadale Pastor Jimmy Williams 276-1907 First United Methodist Church Rev. Bill Jobe 994-3232

Friendship Baptist Church Pastor Paul Swearingen 994-3273

New Cherry Grove Baptist Church Pastor Doug McWhirter

Genesis Baptist Church Rev. Robert Carter • 994-4012

Northview Baptist Church Pastor Joe E. Hinson 385-2744

Gist United Pentecostal Church Rev. Bert Arnold • 221-5162

Northwest Buna Church of Christ Evangelist Gary Scott 658-7578

Grace Fellowship Church Pastor Rick Tallent • 670-3656 Grace Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Mike Ivey Greater Pine Valley Baptist Church Pastor E.E. Robinson 994-9801 Heart of Christ Bro. Robbie Ratliff

Old Laurel Baptist Church Pastor Lee Everhart 994-3434 Parkwood Missionary Baptist Church Bro. Tim Rule, Pastor 994-2631 Pocket Full Gospel Church Bro. Donald Frazier • 779-6690

Northend UPC Pastor Ralph Bertrand

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Father Delphyn Meeks 994-3456

New Beginnings Assembly of God Pastor Jeff Gravis • 276-2005

Trout Creek Baptist Church Pastor Randy Fults 423-5023

The following are proud sponsors of this church directory and urge you and your family to attend your chosen house of worship this Sunday!

The First United Methodist Church in Buna will be serving Bourgeois gumbo on Sunday, Apr. 22 beginning at noon until 1:30 p.m. Lunch will include gumbo, rice, potato salad, dessert and drink. Take out orders are available. Proceeds will go towards improvement projects at the church.

Buckle playdays at Cowboy Church Cowboy Church of Orange County will be hosting Buckle Series playdays on Apr. 28, May 19, and June 20 at the Cowboy Church arena. Buckle events will include cloverleaf barrels, poles, straight barrels, speed race, as well as mutton bustin’. Special classes of lead line and stick horse races will also be compete. Entrants must compete in two of the three playdays to be eligible for awards. For more information, contact Jackie at 423-9724.

Wild Game banquet Apr. 28 First Baptist Church in Buna will host a wild game banquet for men on Saturday, Apr. 28 at 7 p.m. in the Christian Activity Building. Guest speaker will be John Allen Hatch. For more information, contact the church office at 994-3517.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

PAGE 5A, BUNA BEACON

Buna Beacon Classifieds GARAGE SALE GARAGE SALE - Everything a buck! Great items valued at much more! Fri., April 20, from 8-5, Timberlane Dr. - CR 841. Wood residence, 782-8307.

1TP-34 YESTERDAY, TODAY & TOMORROW - Resale Consignment ½ mile North of red light on Hwy. 96. Check out this month’s 50% off tag sale and our special $1 rack. (409) 994-3303.

TFN-18

Beacon Classifieds get results!

Call 994-2218 to place your ad!

REAL ESTATE

SERVICES

FOR SALE

SALE

SALE

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELPWANTED - Buna ISD is currently taking applications for bus drivers. Applications may be picked up at the Maintenance & Transportation Office. Please call 994-4880 or 994-4881. TFN-26

HELP WANTED - Title clerk needed for local dealership, experience required. M-F, 8-5, health insurance paid, vacation and sick pay available. Apply in person at Nissan of Silsbee, ask for Butch.

RENTALS

MURPHY’S LAWN & - Land- NOMEX - I buy and sell nomex. FOR RENT - 2BR 1BA home, 971 scapes, lawn care, design & build. Poor Man’s Shop, Hwy. 96 - Buna. CR 725 in Buna, down the road 8TP-33 from Buna Elem. $400/mo + $200 782-9421.

4TP-34 (504) 655-1679. deposit, pending credit applicaLAWN SERVICE - Mowing, weed NEW SHAW CARPET - Left- tion, no pets. 994-9301. eating, and yard work. Please call overs, beige. 12x10ft - $75, 22x12ft 409-745-9148.

10TP-29 - $125, 12x13 - $85. Please call (409) FOR RENT - 2BR central air & 767-6390.

TFN-32 heat, appliances, water & garbage furnished. $425/mo + dep. 673FREE PICKUP - Appliances, ice 9682.

TFN-34 boxes, batteries, aluminum, anything metal. Please call 994-2560.

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT - 3BR, 2BA, with car4TP-34 port, located inside Kirbyville city PEVETO’S LAWN CARE - Tak- HOUSE FOR SALE - 2,600 sf., limits. Asking $800/mo. + deposit ing new customers. We offer lawn remodeled brick on slab in Buna. (pending credit application.) care for residential, commercial, Owner finance qualified buyer. Please call for more information 1TP-34 (409) 423-2166, ask for Donna. churches, schools, and $169K. 409-994-2076.

TFN-30 cemetaries. Stump grinding available. Please call (409) 994-5666.

FOR RENT - 4BR, 3BA, with 2 car 8TP-28 garage, located inside Kirbyville city limits. Asking $1,200/mo. + deREAL ESTATE posit (pending credit application.)

Please call for more information (409) 423-2166, ask for Donna.

Buna Beacon Your hometown newspaper!

HELP WANTED

HE

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

PAGE 6A, BUNA BEACON

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

Business Review

Country Bookkeeping & Taxes Donna Picard

Dan’s All American Plumbing. L.L.P.

HEALTH CARE DYNAMICS, INC. Home Health Care Agency P.O. Box 1913 Buna, Texas 77612

“Where Your Health Is Our Business” Toll Free (800) 581-3536 Ph. (409) 994-0300 Fax (409) 994-0400

Owner P.O. Box 338 7887 Business Row Mauriceville, TX 77626

Taxes, E-File, Faxes, Copies, Refund Anticipation Loans, Payroll, Payroll Reports, Bookkeeping, Notary, Resumes

409-745-9157 work 409-994-3146 home 409-781-7083 cell

Fax 409-745-9153 cowgirl@juno.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

PAGE 7A, BUNA BEACON

Lady Cougars lose in close Warren game

Courtesy photo: Joey Lavergne

BUNA COUGAR NUMBER 13, Braidon Franklin, stretched to secure the out in last week’s game against Kountze.

Cougars defeat Lions and Pirates, hold an 8-2 record The Buna Cougars hosted the Kountze Lions in district play last Monday night and won 10-1.

Freshman Ethan Franklin took the mound for the Cougars and pitched a complete game, giving up only two hits and one earned run and recording 16 strikeouts over seven innings.

The first inning opened with Franklin striking out the first two batters, but then got into some trouble after the Lions loaded the bases on two walks and a player hit by a pitch. Franklin struck out the batter to get out of the inning.

In the bottom of the first, Joseph Clark reached first base on an error, and then Richard Walden walked, putting runners on first and second base. JM Kelly stepped into the batter’s box and hit an RBI single to score Clark, giving the Cougars a 1-0 lead.

Franklin continued his great pitching performance over the second and third innings, recording nine strikeouts for the first nine outs of the game.

During the bottom of the third inning, Glenn Patrick led off with a hit, followed by both Clark and Walden getting on base with walks to load the bases. On a wild pitch, Patrick took off from third and slid into home to give the Cougars a 2-0 lead.

The Lions scored their only run in the top of the fourth to cut the lead down to one run with the Cougars leading 2-1.

That’s when the Cougars answered soundly. The bottom of the fourth inning began with Justin Yoes hitting for a single,

followed by Caleb Hardy smashing the ball for a double.

With runners on second and third base, Brian Askew beat out a throw at first for an infield single, scoring Yoes. Patrick then stepped up to the plate and hit a triple, scoring both Hardy and Askew and giving the Cougars a 5-1 lead.

Runs continued to pour in as Clark hit for a double, scoring Patrick easily. Clark, Walden, and Kelly each scored that inning also to give the Cougars a 9-1 lead after four innings of play.

The Cougars tacked on another run in the fifth inning as Askew scored after a lead off double.

Patrick went 2-4 with two runs scored and two RBIs, Clark went 1-3 with two runs scored and two RBIs, Yoes went 2-3 with a run scored, and Askew went 2-3 with two runs scored and an RBI. The Cougars then faced the Deweyville Pirates last Friday night and won a thrilling game in the ninth inning, 1-0.

The Cougars are now 8-2 in district, tied with Warren for first place. Over the next two weeks they will face their final two opponents, East Chambers and Anahuac.

This Friday, Apr. 20, will be the Cougars’ senior night, and their last home game.

Next Friday, Apr. 27, the Cougars will travel to Anahuac to face the Panthers in their last regularly scheduled season game.

Continue to support the Cougars in their race for yet another district title.

Did our cameras catch you at a local event?

See for yourself at BunaBeaconPictures.com.

The Buna Lady Cougars hosted the Warren Lady Warriors last Tuesday night, Apr. 10, and lost 5-4.

Kaitlynn Midkiff was on the mound for the Lady Cougars.

The top of the first inning was a tough one for our Lady Cougars as the first three batters reached base and scored.

Buna made some solid defensive plays in the first to keep the game close. Two plays came from Jaeci Dans at third base, throwing out a runner at first, and another came from Madison Franklin catching a mile high infield fly for the final out of the inning.

The Lady Cougars came right back in the bottom of the inning as Katie Welty reached first on a bunt, stole second and third base, and then scored on a passed ball to cut into the three run lead, now only 3-1.

Raylie Richardson then reached first similarly, on a bunt, and reached second on a heads up play as the Warren team wasn’t paying attention. Richardson stole third and raced home for the score as Warren bobbled the ball, making the score 3-2 after the first inning.

In the second inning, catcher Hailey Campbell picked up a well hit bunt and threw the runner out at first base. Midkiff earned a strikeout for the next out, and Welty made a catch for the final out in deep center field, keeping the game close.

The Lady Cougars and the Lady Warriors played solid defense over the next two innings as no runs scored.

With Warren clinging to a one run lead, the Lady Cougars battled to have another run cross

EARNING ALL-DISTRICT basketball honors for Buna were, left to right, Honorable Mention Dustin Fraser, Second Team Kreston Richardson, and Newcomer of the Year Tyler Edwards. Not pictured is First Team Clancy Cleveland.

Rebels battle back into second place Courtesy photo: Joey Lavergne

BUNA LADY COUGAR Katie Welty made a catch in deep center field last week. the plate.

In the bottom of the fourth, Dans got on with a single and was moved to second base when Hailey Campbell hit the ball into the outfield. Dans took off from second and rounded third base headed for home.

The throw in from the outfield was on target, and the play at the plate was called out on a close call as Dans slid in. The Lady Warriors kept their one run lead.

In the top of the fifth inning the Lady Warriors added another run, and although the Lady Cougars kept battling, they came up short losing 5-4.

The Lady Cougars travel to East Chambers on Tuesday, Apr. 17, but will return home for their final game of the regular season this Friday, Apr. 20.

Friday’s game will also be senior night, and the festivities will begin at 5 p.m., shortly before the game against the Anahuac Lady Panthers.

Golden Hub Bowling

By Margaret Holmes The “golden” girls took honors in the Beaumont tournament.

First place in the 2nd Division was Just for Fun gals: June Spell, Mollie Balla, Sue Colton, Roxie Strange, and Juanita Grissom.

Other winners: Inger Bridges and Sasha Golden, doubles; Peggy Stone and Mary Hatch, doubles; Judy Lemp, Roxie Strange, Carrie Cox, singles; Roxie Strange, Mary Hatch, all events; and Linda Townsend and Juanita Grissom, 200 pins.

Thanks to all who took part.

Top scores for the week of Apr. 2: Judy Richbourg 200-573; Sue Colton 193-531; Sharon Dryden 195-545; Betty Chatagnie

193-531; Ruth Herrington 178; Laverne Delahoussaye 172; Billie Adams 170; Avis Perello 171; Nelda Herring 177; Helene Hillin 161; Ginny Karr 187; and Molly Balla 170.

League standings as of Apr. 2: Lucky Charms 41; Dipsticks 38; Smoothie King #14 36; Edward Jones 34 ½; Charlie’s Angels 33; Serenity Salon 32; Community Bank 32; Belles 30; Colton Construction 30; Pooh’s Pals 30; Compass Bank 28; Ultra Con 27; Pat’s Spirits 27; Scaredy Cats 27; Health Care Dynamics 24; Hatch’s Wreckers 23; Richbourgs 22 ½; Quilter’s Studio 19 ½; and Scatter Brains 19 ½.

By Scott Loar Beacon Correspondent The Evadale Rebels had lost three games in district before they faced Sabine Pass last Tuesday, and a loss would have guaranteed that the Rebels would finish in third place in district.

The Sharks would have claimed second with losses to only district leading Big Sandy.

The Rebels, however, had something to say as they faced the Sharks and their ace pitcher.

The Rebels countered with Deven Murphy on the mound, and he recorded 12 strike outs.

The Rebel bats managed to scatter hits and manufacture runs. The Rebels topped the Sharks 7-1 and moved into a tie for second with Sabine Pass.

On Friday, the Rebels needed only five innings to dispose of the Oilers from West Hardin, defeating them 18-1.

Hunter Jackson struck out nine batters in route to the win while

Murphy was 2-for-3 from the plate with a double and three runs scored. Brandon Midkiff was 2-for-2 with two runs while Brandon Bruce was 2-for-3 with two runs.

The Rebels have two games remaining in district against two of the weaker teams in the district, Leggett and Spurger.

With an overall record of 12-4 and a district record of 8-3, the Rebels will be playing hard in order to take care of business to close out the season.

“We will play these last two know that we need to win them to have a playoff with Sabine Pass for second place,” said head coach Mark Williams. “We want to be in a position to have to play that game. Once the standings are settled, then we will know who we will face in the bi-district round of the playoffs. We just want to be playing our best baseball from here on out and we will see how things come out.”

Lady Rebels hold district second place

By Scott Loar Beacon Correspondent The Lady Rebels from Evadale wrapped up second place in district with three wins last week.

They defeated Sabine Pass on Tuesday 17-7.

Wendy Williams went 2-for-2 with two runs scored, Brooke Tanton was 3-for-4 with two RBIs, Kat Reeves was 3-for-4 with two RBIs, and Kori Soignet was 2-for-4 with three runs and two RBIs. On Friday, the Lady Rebels had a double header scheduled with West Hardin, but after a 15-0 three inning win, the Lady Oilers forfeited the second game and the Lady Rebels took a 1-0 victory.

In the first game, Brooke Burnett was 1-for-2 with an RBI,

Tanton was 1-for-2 with three RBIs, Reeves was 2-for-3, Alayna Langston was 1-for-2 with three runs, and Soignet was 1-for-2 with two runs.

The Lady Rebels have one more district game before they will enter the playoffs.

As of press time, it was still unclear who the Lady Rebels will end up playing in the bi-district round of the playoffs.

“We are 9-2 on the season having played only a district schedule this year,” said head coach Robert Hollyfield. “We have not had much of a chance to see how good we could really be, but I like where we are as a team.

We could make a run in the playoffs. We just want to keep getting better and see if we can notch some playoff wins.”

PAGE 8A, BUNA BEACON

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

Adopt-A-Beach spring cleanup set for April 28 Thousands of volunteers across the state are making plans now to take part in the Adopt-ABeach Spring Cleanup Saturday, Apr. 28. In the Beaumont area, volunteers will hit three beaches: Sea Rim State Park, McFaddin Beach and in Chambers County at the intersection of Highways 124 and 87.

Texas, home to the nation’s first all-volunteer beach cleanup in 1986, boasts one of the biggest all-volunteer beach cleanups in the world. More than 10,000 Texans are expected to participate in the Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup coastwide.

“Texans aren’t afraid to roll-up their sleeves and get to work for a good cause, and Adopt-A-Beach is a great one,” said Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson.

“Marine debris literally chokes the life out of the ocean, and it’s a completely avoidable problem.”

Volunteers may register on-

line for the Spring Cleanup at www.TexasAdoptABeach.org or at 29 of the 30 check-in sites (advanced registration required for St. Jo Island) beginning at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Apr. 28 .

Each volunteer will be given data cards, gloves, pencils and trash bags. All volunteers are advised to wear closed-toe shoes, bring sunscreen and plenty of drinking water.

The Texas General Land Office Adopt-A-Beach Cleanups are held rain or shine.

To learn how you can participate, or for additional information on the Adopt-A-Beach Program, please visit www.

TexasAdoptABeach.org or contact the GLO at 1-877-TX COAST. Those interested may also become a fan of the program at www.facebook.com/ texasadoptabeach where event details and results will also be posted.

Did our cameras catch you at a local event?

See for yourself at BunaBeaconPictures.com.

THE BUNA HIGH School FFA group recently held a drawing contest with the theme ‘Working on the Farm.” Student Advisor Tanner Cox, left, and Secretary Sarah Seaman, right, handed out awards to Cooper Wolfe, Corbin Seals, and Emily Harding from the kingergarten classes.

EMERIE WITHERS WAS one of the first grade Buna FFA “Working on the Farm” drawing contest winners.

Sheriff’s News

By Jasper County Sheriff Mitchel Newman We received over two inches of rain last night and a lightning show as well. We are fortunate that we didn’t get the tornadoes that Oklahoma, Kansas, and Iowa received.

Thursday night Officer Cooper stopped a vehicle occupied by two males at the car wash in Brookeland. Neither of the occupants could decide who their marijuana belonged to, so they both went to jail.

We are still working on the sexual assault cases from last week, and we’ve received two more to add to our list. When it rains, it pours.

When we have to spend so much time on one thing it means we are falling behind in another area. However, these sexual cases are of great concern to me, and we must do our best to protect the victims.

We have begun the process of reviewing our scholarship applications for the annual scholarship we will award soon. It’s hard

to believe it is that time of year already.

I have had the pleasure of visiting some of the most interesting and talented people this week. They were your neighbors and mine.

I believe if folks would turn off their televisions and computers, and visit with their neighbors, we wouldn’t have near as many “trouble” calls.

The majority of citizens of Jasper County are good, hardworking, talented people. If you don’t know your neighbors, you may want to take the time to get to know them.

Try it, you might like it.

Newton County officers were involved in a shooting this past week and an individual lost his life. This is a terrible time for all involved, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the officers and the family of the deceased.

Once again, this shows how treacherous our jobs can be and that a tragedy can happen in an instant.

We had another bad fourwheeler accident this weekend.

These vehicles are so dangerous, yet we let our kids and grandkids operate them without proper training and protective gear.

We really don’t know how our young people are going to act when they get our of our sight.

We should be more aware of where they are and what they are doing while operating these vehicles. A “surprise inspection” might save you and your young person some heartache further down the line.

We have 100 in jail this morning, which means we prepare 300 meals today. Our grocery bill is on the rise. I am thankful we have extra income from housing out-of-county inmates to help defray some of the rising costs.

Have a great week!

FIRST GRADE WINNERS in the FFA drawing contest from Buna were also James Casey Willis and Breanna Hebert.

SECOND GRADE WINNERS from the FFA drawing contest were Kaydie Stout, Tyler Milstead, and Angel Murphy.

THIRD GRADE WINNERS from the FFA drawing contest were Kyah Ward, Natalie Sanders, and Anthony Rede.

Senior fishing day at Magnolia Ridge Park Once again it is time for the annual Lakes Area Hospice spring senior fishing event. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, Apr. 27 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Hot dogs and hamburgers will provided by the National Hospice Medical Equipment Co. from Beaumont.

The Corp of Engineers will have the pond and surrounding

area ready for a day of fishing.

All seniors are invited to come try your luck at the pond.

Participants are encouraged to bring their fishing poles and bait, sun hat and lots of sun screen, a chair, and a cooler for the caught fish.

For more information and to RSVP, contact Arte Faye Day at 489-6108.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

PAGE 9A, BUNA BEACON

County From page 1A project initially began after Hurricane Rita. Since Hurricane Ike hit so closely after, the commissioners dedicated $1.2 million from the Hurricane Ike funds for the cleanup project.

“Clearing out these drains will allow less standing water and flooding after major rains and storms,” said Moss. “This is something we have been working on for a while, but we are glad to see it coming to pass.”

There are several problems that the county has run into when attempting to start this project such as bad weather, environmental issues, contractor issues, and right-of-way issues.

Residents along the designated route have grant permission for the county to get on their land.

“Getting these rights of entry documents were essential, but we have all of that taken care of now,” said Moss.

The cleanup will most likely start in Sept. and run through Feb. 2013 because Moss said they are still dealing with migratory birds.

“They will be tying in and pulling out debris, using tub grinders, and throwing this stuff out of the drain,” said Moss.

In addition to this project, Moss is hoping to get money to clean out the drains further north, from Hwy. 2246 to County Road 784 which is out by the Whitehead baseball park.

“This isn’t tied into this grant, so we will have to go through the whole process again with this project,” said Moss. “We know it’s hard work, but it’s worth it.”

Moss also addressed the Court with a request that Jasper County donate a surplus truck on his inventory to the Buna WC&ID water district for use in their operation.

“The old truck is not being utilized by my office, and the water district had a definite need for this large piece of equipment,” said Moss.

The commissioners voted to transfer the truck to the Buna WC&ID to serve the citizens within its jurisdiction.

Goodwin-Lasiter of Lufkin will also advertise for bids on the Automatic Transfer Switch project at the Christus Jasper Memorial Hospital.

“This will enable a large-scale generator to work seamlessly to provide electricity to the hospital in the event of short or long term power outages,” said Allen.

OTHER COUNTY NEWS In other Jasper County news, the Director of Jasper County’s Indigent Health Care department Linda Dickerson addressed the commissioners regarding the current level of funding for indigent health care for the fiscal year.

Dickerson advised that there was approximately $99,000 remaining in her budget, but that after this fund has been exhausted, she expected the State of Texas would assist with partially funding the remainder of the year.

The commissioners also voted to approve the bond for the Interim County Auditor Renee Weaver, and to accept bids for road and bridge materials, pipe and culverts through April, 2013.

The commissioners then approved and adopted additional resolutions, recognizing April as Jasper County’s Fair Housing month, and recognizing this year’s Leadership of Southeast Texas, including Precinct 2 Commissioner Roy Parker, along with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Jasper Master Gardeners for efforts made in a volunteer trash cleanup project up in the lakes area of Jasper County.

Parker advised the Court that it was a fun time for all, and that his group helped clean a great amount of household trash that had been illegally dumped in the area, resulting in several dump loads being removed. Upon graduation this year from the Leadership of Southeast Texas class of 2012, Parker will join County Judge Mark Allen and

Precinct 1 Commissioner Charles Shofner, Jr. as alumni members of this leadership program on the Court.

The commissioners approved and adopted a resolution identifying April, 2012 as Child Abuse Awareness month in Jasper County, and in a solemn reading recognized the problems facing Jasper County and the entire nation of child abuse and neglect. Afterward, the Court took a brief recess to move to the front steps of the Jasper County Courthouse where the members of the Commissioners Court released 31 blue balloons, each representing a child currently in foster care in Jasper County.

Allen and the commissioners were joined on the steps by Interim District Judge Craig Mixson, District Attorney Steve Hollis and Sheriff Newman, during the reading of the resolution and the release of the balloons.

Allen then proclaimed that April 11would be designated as “Go Blue Day” and urged all citizens to wear blue in recognition of abused and neglected children across the nation.

The commissioners voted to reappoint Judge Allen and Precinct 1 Commissioner Charles Shofner, Jr. to the Deep East Texas Council of Governments Board of Directors for another term. Currently, Allen is serving a term as the President on the Executive Board of Directors for DETCOG. District Clerk Kathy Kent presented her monthly report to the commissioners on fines and fees collected for the month of March, 2012. Sheriff Mitchel Newman also presented his jail report for the month of March as well. The commissioners voted to accept and approve both reports filed by these officers.

The commissioners then voted to renew the Interlocal Agreements between Jasper County and the cities of Jasper, Kirbyville and Browndell to allow the Precinct Commissioners to provide road maintenance and repairs at their discretion for roads located within each of these municipalities. State law requires that an Interlocal Agreement exist between a county and the incorporated cities within it to allow the county to participate in road maintenance projects within the city limits.

The commissioners voted to authorize Allen to sign the agreements. Judge Allen advised that the would forward the contract agreements to the Mayors of each city, so that they can be brought before each individual City Council for review and approval.

The commissioners then heard a presentation from Mike Brown of Government Capital Securities, a financial advisory firm, who advised that Jasper County was now eligible to refinance its current debt obligation for the new Sheriff’s Office Jail facility.

Brown advised that Jasper County was currently eligible to reduce its interest rate down to approximately 2.5 percent.

Brown further advised that this would save Jasper County approximately $184,000 over the remaining life of the loan, which runs through to 2021. The commissioners voted to table this agenda item, so that the individual members could research the documentation that Brown provided further, and asked him to return on the next regularly-scheduled meeting to look into refinancing the jail project.

The commissioners also voted to renew Jasper County’s building, vehicle and liability insurance coverage for 2012, utilizing the services of First Insurance Services of Jasper to broker the policies. In other insurance business, the commissioners voted to renew its life insurance policy coverage through April, 2013 with Guardian Life Insurance, which is the current life insurance carrier for Jasper County.

Hometown People

Shelby Palmer Birthdate: September 26, 1968 in Silsbee.

Childhood nickname: Shelbster.

Family members: Wife Paula; son Jacob; daughters Rachel and Emma.

Pets: Dogs, cats, and a chinchilla.

First vehicle owned: Chrysler 1962 Newport sedan, also known as “lead sled.”

Favorite movie: Field of Dreams.

Favorite musician: Nickelback.

Favorite magazine: Sports Illustrated.

Hobbies: Attending my children’s sporting events, hunting, and fishing.

Favorite place to eat: Vic and Anthony’s Steakhouse.

What I watch on TV: Anything that has to do with sports.

Church I attend: First Baptist.

Favorite childhood/youth memory: Going to my grandmother’s farm.

First date story: She kissed me.

Last vacation: Skiing with the family in New Hampshire.

Most memorable vacation: Haven’t had it yet. So many more to come.

Scariest moment: First date story.

Something I do that irritates my coworkers: I ask why.

AT THE SPINDLETOP Open Karate tournament on Mar. 13 at Vincent Middle Scool in Beaumont, Buna residents Garrett Fisher and Amber Amos each won first place in the forms competition. Fisher also won second place in sparring. Also pictured are instructors Taylor Ernst, left, How I met my spouse: It was a and Rhonda Wilkinson, right. chance encounter at my work.

Famous people at my dinner party and why: Matthew McConaughey, so my wife will From page 1A have someone to talk to.

Where I went on my honeyBobby Joe Jeanise, 32, of moon: A cruise to the Virgin Spurger, was indicted on a count Islands. of driving while intoxicated with a Most embarassing moment: child from an alleged July 2009 Having to return a piece of gum incident. to the store after stealing it.

David Jeremy Gomez, 35, of Oddest job I have ever had: Groves, was indicted on a count Watching girls’ locker room door of driving while intoxicated from at college for predators. an alleged July 2009 incident.

Next on my ‘to do’ list: Finish A grand jury indictment is not something on my ‘to do’ list. an indication of guilt or innoFuture goals: Set a record for cence but simply means the years of marriage. jurors felt enough evidence exAdvice to high school graduat- isted to merit a trial. ing senior: Take a real close look at your mom and dad. You are going to be just like one of them.

Sorry.

Favorite thing about Buna: Hometown pride.

THE BURKE CENTER recently held a free Mental Health First Aid trainding class. For more information, on upcoming classes, contact Paul Jackson at 936-639-1141.

Free Mental Health First Aid classes offered locally The Burke Center recently held a Mental Health First Aid training led by Community Relations Director, Paul Jackson. The class offered an informative, helpful and insightful course on recognizing and addressing the needs of people who are beginning to experience symptoms of the early stages of mental illness and those who are experiencing a mental health crisis.

The training also dealt with myths about mental illness, and provided the tools for addressing the needs of people experiencing various types of mental disorders. Participants learned a five step plan that can be of valuable assistance when intervening and directing people to appropriate care and services.

Shown in the picture above attending the recent class were, left to right, Claudia Provance, 1st Quality Hospice; Pamela Morin, Nacogdoches District Attorney’s Office; Carol Dawson, Whitehall Nursing Center; Paul Jackson, Community Relations at Burke Center; Pamela Cotant, Winfield Nursing Home; Karen Gay, Lufkin ISD at Coston; and Cindy Stewart, Lufkin ISD at Anderson.

The Mental Health First Aid training is free. For more information on upcoming classes, contact Jackson at (936) 639-1141.

The Beacon wants your news!

Stop by, call 994-2218 or email editor@ bunabeacon.com

Jury

PAGE 10A, BUNA BEACON

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

BHS one-act play headed to regionals THE BUNA LADY Cougar softball team recently visited Buna Elementary School and spent time with students in class.

April RRC production statistics and allowables The Texas average rig count as of March 16 was 921, representing about 48 percent of all active land rigs in the United States. In the last 12 months, total Texas reported production was 403 million barrels of oil and 7.1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.

The Commission’s estimated final production for January 2012 is 36,934,290 barrels of crude oil and 513,349,055 Mcf (thousand cubic feet) of gas well gas.

The Commission derives final production numbers by multiplying the preliminary Jan. 2012 production totals of 33,012,415 barrels of crude oil and 458,962,052 Mcf of gas well gas by a production adjustment factor of 1.1188 for crude oil and 1.1185 for gas well gas. (These production totals do not include casinghead gas or condensate.)

Texas natural gas storage reported to the Commission for Feb. 2012 was 359,565,528 Mcf compared to 282,505,230 Mcf in Feb. 2011. The Mar. 2012 gas storage estimate is 363,216,147 Mcf. The Texas Railroad Commission’s Oil and Gas Division set initial Apr. 2012 natural gas production allowables for prorated fields in the state to meet market demand of 10,063,648 Mcf (thousand cubic feet).

In setting the initial Apr. 2012 allowables, the Commission used historical production figures from previous months, producers’ demand forecasts for the coming month, and adjusted the figures based on well capability. These initial allowables will be adjusted after actual production for Apr. 2012 is reported.

District competition was held Tuesday, April 3, at East Chambers High School in Winnie, and the Buna High School one-act play team advanced to the area round of the University Interscholastic League competition.

Holly Kelley directed Buna’s team as they performed scenes one and two from the first act and scenes two and three from the second act of Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.”

The cast for this year’s play are seniors Troy Loftin as John Proctor, Justin Yoes as Samuel Parris, Kelsey Page as Mrs. Ann Putnam, Courtney Lister as Rebecca Nurse, Steven Gonzales as Deputy-Governor Danforth, and Colton Mullins as Reverend John Hale.

Cast members also include juniors Madison Kelley as Abigail Williams, Danielle Crane as Betty Parris, Alyssa Manke as Susanna Wallcott, Makenzie Ramey as Mary Warren, and Paul Turner as Giles Corey.

Sophomore students selected as cast members are Emily Jacobs as Elizabeth Proctor and Danielle Sharp as Mercy Lewis.

Freshmen Aleksander Gorlovskiy, who acts as Thomas

Putnam/Judge Hawthorne, and Triston Harris, as Ezekiel Cheever, round out the cast of the 2012 BHS One Act Play.

Individual awards were given out at the district competition.

From Buna, Colton Mullins was named Overall Best Actor, Emily Jacobs received All-Star Cast, Mackenzie Ramey received Honorable Mention All-Star cast, and Chris Champion received All-Star crew.

The area competition was held last Thursday, Apr. 12 in Huntsville at Huntsville High School, and the BHS performance began at 5 p.m. Buna was one of two schools who qualified to advance to the regional competition.

Individual awards were also given out at the area competition.

Troy Loftin was named Overall Best Actor, Steven Gonzales received an All-Star cast award, Carly Holloway was named AllStar crew, and Emily Jacobs and Madison Kelley received Honorable Mention All-Star cast.

The BHS one-act play will perform at the regional competition at 4 p.m. this Thursday, Apr. 19, at Tyler Community College in Tyler.

Regional men’s chorus taking new auditions for upcoming performances The Harmony Exporters Men’s Chorus will host a guest night/ preliminary audition Thursday evening, Apr. 26 at 7 p.m., at the Beaumont Ridgewood Church of Christ fellowship hall. The event will precede rehearsals for the group’s 50th anniversary production in the fall.

For the 50th anniversary show, the chorus will perform a lively program of “Fifties” hits, and chorus directors hope to increase the active membership to at least 50 singers.

Directors assure that soloquality voices are not required; they are equally interested in men, all ages, who can accurately

hear and reproduce pitches and musical intervals. The ability to hear and sing harmony parts is also desirable.

Chorus officials also assure that prospects will not be pressured to become paid members of the regional civic organization.

With members ranging in age from 13-years to 88, the Harmony Exporters comprise the only allmale “Pops” chorus in the greater Sabine-Neches region, including Woodville and Tyler County, Jasper, Winnie, Liberty, and Lake Charles, Louisiana.

For more information, contact John Dennis Olsen at 409-6737456.

Ross From page 1A to Lamar University where he graduated with his Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences degree in 1998.

He worked as a special education teacher for six years in Buna, and then he stepped out of the field of education for a little bit, working as a pharmaceutical representative for Johnson and Johnson.

Ross then went to Evadale ISD as a special education teacher and a coach, and this is where he began pursuing his master’s degree.

In January of 2008, he came back to Buna and began working as an administrator at Buna Junior High School. Around this time he obtained his principal certification from Lamar University. He also worked as the Buna ISD Food Service Director.

“What I believe helped me more than anything is when I stepped out of education for a few years,” said Ross. “This is because I had the opportunity to serve on the Buna school board of trustees for one term. I was able to see the school district in a completely different light.”

Ross said that he is a firm believer that God puts you where He wants you in order to prepare you for the future, and this is what he claims has happened over the course of his career.

“I have worked on several campuses, served on the school board, and worked in various departments,” said Ross. “All of these things have given me a unique perspective of how everything has to work together to provide the best education for our students.”

Although Ross said that he

knows there will be challenges to his new position, it’s not something he’s taking lightly.

“This is home,” he said. “I want people to be proud that they graduated from Buna High School. I want us to provide a top notch education.”

As far as his personal goals for the Principal role, Ross said that he mainly wants to move forward.

“There is always room for improvement,” he said. “I know that it will take me a little bit to get adjusted, but I believe that I will rise to the challenge.”

As Principal, Ross will be in charge of the campus budget, involved in the hiring of faculty members, the staff development director, and will direct campus scheduling.

“I will no longer have the comfort of someone higher making the final calls,” said Ross.

“But I’m praying that I make right decisions.”

One of Ross’ strategies in moving the district forward involves looking at neighboring districts and finding out what makes them successful. He also said that he desires to fully earn the trust of community members.

“I want parents and students alike to know that we care and that we are trying to do the best we can to provide a quality education for our students,” he said.

Ross was one of nine applicants for the Buna High School Principal position, with several applications coming from other current Buna ISD employees.

“This is a great honor,” said Ross, “and I’m glad that I will again remain right here at home.”

Beacon photo: Aleksander G. Allen

THE BUNA HIGH School One Act play group competed in area competition last week and advanced to regionals.

BISD approves courses, budget

By Tina Cooley Beacon Reporter The agenda for the Apr. 10 Buna Independent School District regularly scheduled board of trustees meeting included the consideration of high school curriculum handbook, budget amendments, local policies, as well as retiring and resigning personnel.

Dr. Robin Perez, Buna Independent School District Superintendent, along with Dr. Don Muckleroy, Buna High School Principal, presented and discussed the proposed list of new course offerings that would be made available at the high school level.

New course listings recommended to be added as 2012-13 high school courses include Independent Study in Mathematics, Environmental Systems, Scientific Research and Design, and Principles of Education.

The Mathematics course will be build on topics discussed in Algebra II and Geometry, give students a fourth math credit, and better prepare them for College Algebra and Pre-Calculus.

In the Environmental Systems course, students will conduct investigations while using critical thinking and problem solving in topics like biotic factors, ecosystems, as well as changes in environment.

The Scientific and Research Design course is designed for a focused study into aerospace, biotechnology, forensics, visualizations in space science, chemistry, biology, and physics.

The Principles of Education course introduces learners to the various careers available within education while allowing them to gain a basic understanding of the basic knowledge and skills essential for the given career choice. The course also provides an opportunity for the students to develop a graduation plan that leads to a career in their interest area.

Board members unanimously approved the addition of the above listed courses into the 2012-13 high school course offerings and to be included in the curriculum handbook.

Budget amendments presented to the board for consideration included expenditures of $95,270 for computers, $55,000 for SECO lighting grant, and $42,050 for student desks. Revenue sources for the expenses include $50,000 from the SECO lighting grant and $142,320 from the fund balance.

Of the $142,320 in the fund balance revenue, $87,500 comes from funds recently deposited as a result of additional funds generated from the PEIMS audit.

Perez also asked the board to accept letters received from the following employees who are retiring: Pam Davis, high school librarian; Lequeta Flowers, high school history teacher; Judy George, junior high librarian; Wanda Hawthorne, junior high history teacher; and Kathy Milstead, high school English teacher.

Perez also asked the board to accept resignations received from the following employees: Pamela Jacobs, elementary teacher; Candice Whitmire, elementary teacher; Seab Rick Jones, high school world geography teacher; and Katie Shaw, elementary special education teacher.

The board unanimously approved the stated retirements

and resignations as received.

Perez gave the monthly report with current district enrollment at 1501 as of Apr. 30, down 15 students from the prior report on Feb. 29.

Campus administrators presented their individual campus plans to the board.

At the elementary campus, students are participating in events such as the recent Relay for Life, Spring Book Fair, county fairs, and reward field trips. At junior high, students are gearing up for STAAR testing, participating in community unity projects such as the recently held powderpuff football game, and preparing for end of the year awards ceremonies and spring concerts.

High school students recently attended the prom, are making final plans for graduation, and are busy with spring sports and the many annual awards ceremonies, teas, and banquets held during the final weeks of each school year.

Jody Folk, Special Services Director, along with Dr. Robin Perez, addressed the board with concerns in the fleet of buses and vans the district currently has.

Concerns included the age of the fleet, mileage on the vehicles, and the safety of the students at the forefront of the concerns.

“In the past week, we had an occasion where students were stranded in a broken down district vehicle out of town,” said Folk. “These are the types of situations we work so hard to avoid.”

The department will continue to assess the transportation needs of the district and make recommendations as necessary.

The agenda also addressed instructional materials allotment and TEKS certification for the 2012-13 school year. A new requirement from the Texas Education Agency requires the school districts approve the Instructional Materials Allotment and the TEKS certifications before instructional materials can be requested for the upcoming year.

The document that is to be submitted to TEA states that the district certifies that the necessary instructional materials are in place and cover all elements of the essential knowledge and skills of the required curriculum, other than physical education, for each grade level as required in the Texas Education Code, Section 28.002.

Also on the agenda was consideration and approval of Update 93, which includes changes in law resulting from the 82nd legislative session. Update 93 addresses an array of topics including local policies that address employee standards of conduct, challenges to instructional materials, bullying, and harassment.

Board members unanimously approved the recommendations made to adopt local policies that align with Texas Association of School Board Policy Service.

Dr. Perez reminded the board of trustees, as well as community members in attendance, of the upcoming facilities assessment workshop scheduled for Thursday, Apr. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Administration building.

The next regularly scheduled Buna ISD board of trustees meeting is scheduled for May 5 at 7 p.m. at the Buna Elementary School campus.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

Happy Birthday April 18 Ronald Briscoe Mollie Grace Ford Preston Gilchriest Anneliesa Glynn Kelly Horton Karen Lister Geraldine Spears April 19 Micah Begnaud Ashley Gonzalez Dot Smith Josh Wilkinson April 20 Wendy Bohler April Griffis Aaron Hebert Vance Moss Tina Havens Jimmy Parish Bobby Smith April 21 Carly Barrett Stephanie Cole Folmar Laiken McGallion Donna A. Reed Thelma Robertson Corey Spell Colby Tatom April 22 Charles Link Morgan Ratcliff Shaun Wesberry April 23 Gary Alston Larry DeLord Phyllis Green Diana Jacobs Ragina Petitjean Sarah Seaman Thad Smith April 24 Bernice Cunningham Travis Harris Riesa Hunger Morgan Nelson Pam Picard Cheryl Tomas Bucky Tucker

Happy Anniversary April 18 Dale & Connie Fancher April 19 J.C. & Dorothy Smith April 22 Steve & Gina Dyson April 23 Ray & Janet Brewster April 24 Nathan & Teri Wolfe

PAGE 11A, BUNA BEACON

San Jacinto Day Festival and Battle reenactment San Jacinto Day is the celebration of the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836. It was the final battle of the Texas Revolution where Texas won its independence from Mexico.

It is an official holiday in the State of Texas. An annual festival, which includes a re-enactment, is held on the site of the battle, located on the Houston Ship Channel in Harris County.

This year, visitors can enjoy living history encampments and reenactions in period costume, demonstrations of weapons, activities for children and more at the San Jacinto Monument near La Porte. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

At 3 p.m., a re-enactment of the famous 1836 battle will be fought.

Cannon and musket fire will fill the air with the sights and

Did our cameras catch you at a local event?

See for yourself at BunaBeaconPictures.com.

Area residents called for county jury duty Jasper County District Clerk, Kathy Kent, lists prospective jurors summoned for jury duty on April 23, 2012 at 9 a.m. at the Jasper County Courthouse, Jasper, Texas: Buna residents summoned to serve include Patricia Baxter, Dwight Bourgeois, Lloyd Brooks, Kevin Burton, Robert Carter, Royce Cates, Angela Cheatwood, James Clines, Malinda Cloud, Donald Dawson, Rustie Delome, Walinda Dowden, Carrie Eaves, Loweda Elliott, Thomas Elliott, Terri Freeman, Lindsey George, Donna Gonzalez, Christopher Hall, Colinda Hamilton, Amber Harris, Sandra Hatch, Brandy Isaaks, Challie Jacks, Kristen Johnson, Robbie Johnson, Robert Keith, Sr., Debra King.

Also summoned from Buna are Robert Lake, Brian Latham, Cherie Lavertue, Sherry Leatherwood, Grege Lemaire, Dedra Marks, Ronnie McAnelley, Larry McBride, Michael McFarland, Tim McFarland, Elliot McMahon, Betty Nichols, Maria Petty, Ninette Pollard, Margie Reeves, Kathy Rice, Patricia Richards, Ashley Rion, Amanda Rueda, Goldie Sanders, Christina Simmons, Rusty Smith, William Smith, Brooke Stanley, Lisa Stimits, Nancy Taylor, Thomas Thompson, Patricia Waters, Rebecca Wilkinson, and Renee York.

Evadale residents called to serve are Arthur Adams, Tracy Allen, Mark Baker, Jerome Boutin, Jr., Curtis Eaves, Joseph Gilbert, Sarah Hobbs, Regina Jackson,

Margaret Linch, Hazel Mobley, Robert Newman, Ronald Nichols, James Powers, Tommy Robinson, James Solvik, Justin Taylor, Dawn Vincent, and Linda Welsh.

Kirbyville residents called to serve include Keith Adams, Joan Alexander, Annie Bean, Catherine Booker, Nancy Booker, Vernon Boker, Jr., Pauline Brandon, Lynn Britt, Lisa Brown, Hunter Burchett, Lloyd Burge, Gary Calkins, Brittany Clark, Courtney Coburn, Shelley Coleman, Roger Curry, Rebecca Dean, James Ellis, Ja’Michael Ervine, Wanda Frank, Robert Gartland, Larry Gentry, Kimberly Guillory, Joycssine Harvey, Lonnie Herrin, Meagan Herrin, Sherry Howard, Kathy Hussey, Ronald Hutchinson, Amber Jackson, Almarie Johnson, and Kenneth Jordan, Jr. Also summoned from Kirbyville are Lucinda Kirbow, Catherine Krementz, Shelia Limbrick, William Livingston, Shanna Loyd, Randy McCullough, Earl Miguez, Wanda Morgan, Roger Morris, Sally Navarre, Callie Odom, Marvin Powell, Tina Roseman, Kyle Roth, Bobbie Ruggles, Amy Sauls, Shanna Sells, Barbara Sfamurri, Francis Simons, Sammie Smith, Christopher Taliaferro, James Taylor, Lillie Thomas, Erin Tomplait, Richard Tomplait, Jake Walker, Jodi Watson, Mary Wilson, and James Wise.

Call residents summoned to serve include Glenn Curl, Freida Delaney, Troy Downs, Brittany Lane, Arnold Lilley, Jr., Mary Mitchell, Burnett Powell, Michael Reeves, and Tanya Ritter.

sounds of April 21, 1836.

Food and drinks are available, or visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch and enjoy the day.

The San Jacinto Museum of History is located inside the base of the monument, and focuses on the history of the Battle of San Jacinto and Texas heritage.

For a nominal fee you may view a digital presentation of “Texas Forever: The Battle of San Jacinto” in the monument theater or take a self-guided tour of the Battleship Texas.

Visitors can take an elevator to the monument’s observation deck for a view of Houston and the USS Texas. For more information, call 281-479-2431.

PAGE 12A, BUNA BEACON

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

Don’t Mess with Texas scholarship for seniors

IT WAS PAJAMA Day at the Buna Public Library’s Preschool Storytime last week, and preschoolers enjoyed a craft, story, and activities about bed time. Storytime is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in the childrens’ book section of the library. Parents and/or guardians and grandparents are invited to attend weekly with their preschooler.

Village Creek Festival to be held this weekend The 22nd annual Village Creek Festival will be held this weekend, April 19-21, in Lumberton.

Food and craft booths will be open all weekend.

Gate admission is free, and parking is $5 per car.

The festival will kick off on Thursday at 5 p.m. with the Kenny Sanders band performing at 6:30.

The Amazing Carnival by Gold Star Amusements will provide fun throughout the weekend, and they will be open on Thursday and Friday from 6 to 10 p.m.

On Thursday evening, the entertainment will be Black Creek, also performing at 6:30 p.m.

On Saturday, the Festival will run from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The

two carnival sessions will be from noon to 4 p.m. and 6 to 10 p.m. on Saturday.

The wrist bank weekend pass costs $50.

The Fun Run 5K will begin on Saturday at 8:30 a.m, the Fun Run Kids K will be at 9:45 a.m. The registration for adults is $30, and the registration for children is $15.

The Miss Village Creek Pageant will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Saturday night’s entertainment will be Katie Whitney and the Draw who perform at 6:30 p.m.

For more information about the weekend, contact the Lumberton Chamber of Commerce at 7550554.

Texas high school seniors who care about the environment have the chance to win a college scholarship by composing a 350word essay explaining what they’ve done to improve the litter situation in their community.

Don’t Mess with Texas is accepting essays for the 2012 Scholarship March 15 through April 20.

The first-place winner will receive $3,000. The second- and third-place winners will receive $1,000 each.

Don’t Mess with Texas is a litter prevention campaign sponsored by the Texas Department of Transportation. The scholarship is one of TxDOT’s efforts to generate more youth involvement in the campaign.

“The scholarship requires students to write an essay explaining the litter prevention efforts they’ve made in their community, and we’re always impressed with how hard many high school

students work to keep Texas beautiful,” said Brenda FloresDollar, program administrator for TxDOT’s Travel Information Division, which manages the Don’t Mess with Texas campaign.

Any high school senior graduating spring 2012, who currently resides and attends school in Texas is eligible. Seniors must be planning to further their education at an accredited two- or fouryear college or university (public or private) in Texas Materials are due via email or must be postmarked by April 20.

Students must write a 300 to 350 word-essay identifying a litter problem in the student’s school or community and the action they took to address it.

A completed Don’t Mess with Texas Scholarship application sent online or by mail with the essay by April 20. For the application, mailing address or further details, visit www.DontMessWithTexas.org.

Market Report Kirbyville Auction Barn Market Report Apr. 14, 2012 Total Head: 196 Bull Calves 0-299: $1.50 - $2.70 300-399: $1.35 - $2.25 400-499: $1.30 - $1.90 500 and up: $1.20 - $1.80 Heifer Calves 0-299: $1.50 - $2.85 300-399: $1.40 - $2.05

400-499: $1.20 - $1.72 500 and up: $1.10 - $1.60 Pregnant Cows: $585 - $1,230 Cow/Calf Pairs: $1,000 - $1,725 Slaughter Cows: $75 - $92 Bulls: $91 - $110 Hogs Boars: $15 - $20 Sows: $38 - $51 Tops: $50 - $60 Pigs: $30 - $50 Goats: $25 - $160

Correction In the Apr. 4 issue of the Buna Beacon, the article titled, “Buna High UIL places second at district meet,” the calculator team consisting of Hannah Walters, Halie Schnitz, Haylee Newbold, and Dusty Boyd was erroneously omitted. The team placed second and qualified as a regional alternate, while Walters placed second individually and competed at regionals.

The Beacon apologizes for the error.

AT THE BUNA High School Prom held at the Activity Center last Saturday night, seniors Justin Yoes and Raylie Richardson were named the 2012 Prom King and Queen.

Commissioners remind about National Safe Digging Month April marks the fifth annual National Safe Digging Month, and Texas Railroad Commissioners are urging Texas residents to always to make a free call to 811 before any digging project. A call to one-call notification centers will prompt pipeline operators to mark their underground pipelines in the area requested, making springtime digging projects in gardens and yards safe.

In Texas, the top cause of pipeline accidents occurs when someone is digging or excavating.

Fortunately, the Commission’s efforts to spread the word about the importance of calling 811 before digging is resulting in fewer pipeline damage incidents each year. Excavation-related pipeline damage incidents have dropped since the inception of the Commission’s Damage Prevention program from 12,847 in 2007 to 8,503 in 2011, a 34 percent decrease in excavation related damage incidents.

“As April marks the traditional start of digging season, we are getting the word out this month to strongly encourage individuals and companies to call 811 before they begin digging,” said Commission Chairman Barry Smitherman. “Excavation-related damages account for 76 percent of all Texas pipeline accidents.

By calling 811 to have the underground utility lines in their area marked, homeowners and contractors are making an important decision that can help keep them and their communities safe.”

“Building a deck, installing a mailbox, and planting a tree or garden are all examples of digging projects that should only begin a few days after a call to 811,” said Commissioner David Porter. “We at the Commission reinforce the ‘Call Before you Dig’ message by conducting pipeline damage prevention educational programs across the

state. With a pipeline network of more than 300,000 miles in Texas, every digging project, no matter how large or small, warrants a call to 811.”

When calling 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to a local one-call center which notifies the appropriate utility companies of their digging plan.

Professional locators are then sent to the requested digging site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags, paint or both. Striking a pipeline can result in injury, repair costs, fines and inconvenient outages.

In Texas, not calling 811 before digging or incorrectly marking a pipeline can result in fines of up to $10,000 per day per violation.

Since the Railroad Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention Program began in Sept. 2007, almost 45,000 pipeline damage incidents due to digging have been reported to the Commission.

During that same time, the Commission has collected more than $4.7 million in penalties for damage prevention violations— dollars that go directly into the state’s General Revenue Fund.

As part of the Commission’s ongoing educational efforts for excavators and contractors, Texas Railroad Commission Pipeline Safety Division staff will work in partnership with the Houston and Harris County area Damage Prevention Council to host a series of free pipeline safety presentations. Scheduled for April 16 – 20, the meetings will provide excavators and underground facility operators with information on the Texas Underground Pipeline Damage Prevention Rule.

For more information on these meetings, send an e-mail to TDRFInfo@rrc.state.tx.us. For additional Damage Prevention Month activities and safe digging practices, visit www. call811 .com or www .rrc. state.tx.us.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

PAGE 13A, BUNA BEACON

Learning to Live

By Amber Hawk

THE THREE CROSS Cowboy Church in Bleakwood held a children’s stick horse rodeo on Saturday, Apr. 7, where children enjoyed the beauty of the day and fun in the sun.

Testing schedule for Buna ISD students Some students in the Buna Independent School District have already experienced their first STAAR testing. For others, the dates are quickly approaching.

On Apr. 23 and 24, tenth grade students will take the TAKS LAT and TAKS_M LAT Math, along with third, fourth, sixth and seventh graders who will take STAAR Math tests.

Third, fourth, sixth, and seventh grade students will take STAAR Reading test on Apr. 25, while eleventh grade students take TAKS exit level Math and with TAKS-M Math tests.

On Apr. 26, fifth and eighth grade students will take the STAAR science test while tenth grade students take TAKS and eleventh graders take exit level Science test.

TAKS-M, LAT, M-LAT Science tests for tenth graders and exit level science retests will all be administered on Apr. 27.

Eighth grade students will take STAAR Social Studies test, while tenth grade students will take

TAKS-M Social Studies. Eleventh graders will take exit level Social Studies and TAKS-M Social Studies tests.

All make-up sessions for tests during the week of Apr. 23-27 must be completed by Apr. 28.

High school students will take STAAR tests as follows: May 7, STAAR Algebra I; May 8, STAAR and STAAR-M U.S. History; May 9, STAAR and STAAR-M Biology; May 10, STAAR and STAAR-M Geometry; May 11, STAAR and STAAR-M World Geography; May 14, STAAR and STAAR-M Physics; May 15, STAAR and STAAR-M World History; May 16, STAAR and STAAR-M Algebra II; and May 17, STAAR and STAAR-M Chemistry.

May 18 is scheduled as the make-up day for all End of Course exams that were previously scheduled from May 7-17.

For more information about testing dates, visit the Buna Independent School District website at www.bunaisd.net.

Jasper County Arrest Report The following persons were charged but not convicted of crimes listed. Jasper County Sheriff Mitchel Newman provides this information under the Texas Open Records Act, article 62552-17A. Apr. 6, 2012: Jaren Oneil Bronson, 8/27/90, driving while license invalid, failure to appear, failed to maintain financial responsibility, bond not set(x3), driving while license invalid, $2,500 bond; James Lawrence Adams, 2/6/74, mental competency complaint, bond not set; Justin Lamond Jones, 11/5/83, accident involving damage to vehicle>=$200, $2,500 bond; Cary Michael Naquin, 6/28/80, order of commitment; Eddy Bernard Gilbert, 8/9/70, order of commitment; Becky Barrow, 7/21/67, capias profine(x2), bond not set(x2); John Vann Larex, 3/22/74, driving while intoxicated, $1,000 bond.

Apr. 7, 2012: Travis Keith Carter, 8/31/86, poss marij<2oz, $1,000 bond; Paula Diane Jackson, 7/28/72, theft prop>=$500<$1,500, $2,000 bond; Jeffery Lynn Slaydon, 3/17/88, driving while license invalid, failure to appear, bond not set(x2).

Apr. 8, 2012: Robert Wayne Compton, Jr., 4/6/75, probation violation (f), no bond; Ronnie Lee Foxworth, 9/14/55, making alcoholic beverage available to minor, $2,000 bond; Brandon Jarrod Simms, 9/10/92, indecency with a child sexual contact, $35,000 bond; Allan Wade Whitehead, 9/12/69, failure to appear/burg of veh(x2), $2,500 bond(x2); Thomas Anthony Johnson, 12/7/67, crim nonsupport/fta, $500 bond, theft >=$20<$500, $1,000 bond.

Apr. 9, 2012: Antonio Demetrous Taylor, 8/23/71, theft of prop by check, $500 bond, capias profine, capias, bond not set(x2); Wendi Camille Harris, 7/24/74, public intoxication, bond not set; Warren Odell Ferguson, 3/12/65, order of commitment(x2), bond not set(x2); Brandon Lee Bryant, 6/30/85, motion to adjudicate guilt/burg of hab, motion to adjudicate guilt/burg of building, probation violation (f), bond not set(x3); Paul Allen McDaniel, 7/5/78, poss cs pg1>=1g<4g, $1,500 bond; Christian Aaron Guadian, 12/5/94, resist arrest search or transp, $4,500 bond, assault causes bodily injury family member, $3,500 bond; Andres Crescencio-Anastacio, 3/19/86, bond forfeiture, $20,000 bond.

Apr. 10, 2012: Albert Vernon Adams, Jr., 1/8/57, deadly conduct, $10,000 bond; James Patrick Burch, 4/25/72, engaging in organized criminal activity, $25,000 bond; Ashley Nichole Bodine, 9/9/86, bench warrant district court; Karen Janet Lachney, 1/29/65, bond forfeiture; Michele Denise Williams, 12/26/75, bench warrant-district court, bond not set; Quintin Lerinz Richards, 8/16/88, sexual perf by child <14 yrs employ/dir/promo, $75,000 bond.

Apr. 11, 2012: Chad Parks, 2/2/77, theft>=$20<$200 by check, bond not set; Brian Lynn Bebee, 11/5/85, theft prop>=$500<$1,500, $2,000 bond; Devin Raychade Garrett, 8/24/92, fail to attend school/ capias profine, bond not set, motion to revoke probation, no bond; William Henry McCully, Jr., 3/11/60, expired driver’s license, failure to appear, bond not set(x2); Ray Charlton Hamilton, III, 8/15/70, engaging in organized criminal activity, bond not set; Casie Lynn Graves, hold for other agency; Joseph Lamar Beatty, 6/20/90, motion to adjudicate guilt/bench warrant, bond not set; Stephen Lynn Bebee, 11/3/89, theft prop>=$500<1,500, $2,000 bond.

Apr. 12, 2012: Michael Thomas Brignac, 5/6/83, driving while intoxicated, $1,000 bond; David Brian Chaney, 1/9/78, theft prop>=$500<$1,500, $2,000 bond; Justin Dewayne Bridges, 12/23/82, driving while intoxicated, bond not set; Dustin Djon Barlow, 4/15/85, poss marij<2oz, bond not set.

This past weekend my mother and I traveled to Kansas to see my brother.

Kolby is a sophomore at Cowley County Community College in Arkansas City, Kansas.

He’s graduating next month with an associate of arts degree in sports management.

Can you tell that I’m a proud big sister?

Over the weekend, I talked to Kolby quite a bit about his future.

He’s currently a relief pitcher for the Cowley Tigers, but he doesn’t have anything lined up for next year yet.

Some coaches have contacted him, but nothing is set in stone.

He’s in that place of waiting, and it’s nerve-racking for him to say the least.

The Tigers currently have a 2515 record and a conference record of 22-4. I’m pretty sure they will go on to win their conference again, and I personally think they have a good shot at playing in the National Junior College Athletic Association Championship tournament.

Kolby knows that he has to take care of business in the classroom and on the field right now, but he’s struggling with what happens next.

He would love to keep playing baseball, but he also knows that there’s a whole big world out there. Right now, his plans include four more years of school and the hope of becoming a physical therapist. But as with

most college students, that plan could change tomorrow.

As his older sister, Kolby looks to me for some guidance and direction, an honor I don’t take lightly. This weekend it was easy to dish out comments like, “God has a plan. Take care of things now and leave the rest for God to figure out.”

But I often find myself facing the same thing. As humans, we want to know what’s next.

When we are 13, we can’t wait to drive. When we turn 16, we can’t wait to graduate high school. Then we are looking forward to a career, a family, a promotion, a boat, a lake house, and retirement.

Life happens so fast, and sometimes I feel like I can’t catch a breath.

It’s a 10 hour drive to Ark City, and that is a long time in a car. I had plenty of time to enjoy looking at the countryside, think, pray, and breathe.

Through it all, I came back believing what I was telling my brother.

Waiting is part of the journey.

It builds character. It makes you stronger.

So no matter where you are in your life journey, if you aren’t waiting now, know that you will be soon.

And while you are waiting, do your best not to strive for the next thing.

You might miss what God is building in you now.

Share your thoughts on our slice of Southeast Texas with a letter to the editor.

BUNA ELEMENTARY STUDENTS and local community members participated in the Mini-Relay for Life last Friday on campus during students’ physical education class time.

Relay for Life benefits cancer victims locally

By Tina Cooley Beacon Reporter Students at Buna Elementary School held their annual mini Relay for Life on Friday, Apr. 13 during their grade-level assigned physical education class time.

Activities during the relay time included stations set up with a rotation to face painting, sack races, hula hoop relays, and walking or jogging on pavement behind from the elementary to the baseball fields and back.

Students at BES raised a grand total of $2,059 with pre-kindergarten raising $322. Pre-kindergarten students will be rewarded with an ice cream party.

Top fundraisers for each grade level are as follows: pre-kindergarten Makenzie Keith, $322, first grade, Ayden Sanders, $100; second grade, Kelly Erickson, $50; third grade, Lucas Ward, $70; fourth grade, Alexandra Mixson, $100; and fifth grade, Judd Powell, $10.

Several Buna Elementary

School students who are cancer survivors, along with two elementary teachers, also survivors, joined in the relays. Students had an opportunity to walk in honor or memory of a friend or relative affected by cancer.

Proceeds from the mini relay will benefit the Relay for Life of Jasper Lakes area.

The Buna Babes team will participate this Friday, Apr. 20 beginning at 7 p.m. in the Jasper Lakes area Relay for Life event.

Cancer survivors will walk the first lap of the night to celebrate.

Area survivors are invited to meet at the Jasper Court House square to participate.

All proceeds from relay events go to the American Cancer Society to fund research, which brings new treatments to those affected in our community.

For more information, contact Rhonda Brown, High Plains division community manager for the American Cancer Society, at 782-7982.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012

PAGE 14A, BUNA BEACON

County dealing with sexual assault cases

By Amber Hawk Beacon Editor April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, but unfortunately, that hasn’t stopped the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department from arresting two men in the last few weeks who are accused of sexual crimes against children.

The Buna Beacon reported last week that an 18-year-old Jasper County man was arrested on Easter Sunday at a Jasper residence on the second-degree felony charge of indecency with a child, sexual contact, stemming from an alleged incident involving his 3-year-old cousin.

Brandon Simms, 18, was allegedly found in an upstairs bedroom of his relative’s home on Farm to Market Road 3414 in Jasper.

In addition, Sheriff Mitchell Newman said another arrest occurred last Tuesday, Apr. 10 in the Brookeland area.

The suspect, 23-year old Quintin Richards, allegedly attempted to inappropriately touch

The First Baptist Church in Buna will hold a free concert open to all community members on Saturday, May 5 from 6 to 8 p.m in the main sanctuary.

The free concert will feature the 2011 contemporary bluegrass band of the year nominated group “Southern Raised.”

Group member Emma Grace was also nominated as the 2011 fiddle performer of the year.

“These attractive, conservatively dressed, sisters and brother Richards an 8-year-old male child recently.

When the child resisted, Richards allegedly offered the child bribes to again attempt to touch the child inappropriately.

The child allegedly notified his parents, who then confronted Richards.

An interview was conducted on the child at the Garth House in Beaumont, and enough evidence was obtained to issue an arrest warrant for Richards.

He was taken to the Jasper County Jail.

Jasper County Ag News

By Cindy VanDevender Jasper AgriLife Extension Agent As many times as I’ve taught diabetes classes, there seems to be an endless supply of fresh faces needing to learn how to deal with a newly diagnosed case, theirs or a family member’s.

Researchers don’t know why, but diabetes continues to rise and the U.S. Diabetes Statistics say if trends continue, one out of three children born in 2000 will develop diabetes in their lifetime.

Cases of diabetes have doubled from 1990 to 2005, and the incidence of type 2 diabetes in adolescents has increased 10 times over the last decade.

The American Diabetes Association estimates there are 79 million people with pre-diabetic conditions, and that almost two million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed every year.

What we teach in our “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes” classes isn’t a cure, although it may help prevent or delay the onset of the disease.

People with diabetes have a chronic condition that they need to learn to manage with major lifestyle changes. If they don’t, they run the risk of complications as serious as amputation, blindness, kidney failure and in-

First Baptist Church to hold free concert May 5

creased risk of heart disease and strokes.

We will offer this series of classes on Thursday mornings, 9 a.m. to noon, May 3 through 31 in Ealand Hall at the Methodist Church at 329 W. Bowie in Jasper. We recommend people take all five classes, but even if they can make only one, it will help them.

May 3 covers, “What is Diabetes?” and how nutrition is the first step to managing the disease. May 10 explains that one diet is no longer the sole option; there are many approaches that can work, but the key is understanding your blood glucose.

May 17 helps people use the information on nutrition labels, and how both food and exercise are important to successful management.

May 24, “For Good Measure” covers portion control and strategies for eating out, as well as understanding diabetes medicine and the many new options for diabetics.

May 31 will cover preventing and managing complications.

The program is sponsored by Texas Home Health. To reserve a seat, we ask that people RSVP by April 27 by calling the Agrilife office at 409-384-3721.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS RESPONDED when community member Eddie Crockett was in need, and he recently purchased a FEMA trailer like the one pictured above.

Community responds to Crockett’s loss with love

By Amber Hawk Beacon Editor On Saturday, Feb, 25, a structure fire on County Road 748 left Eddie Crockett without his own home.

Crockett was inside the home when the fire started, but he got out safely.

All of his possessions were lost in the blaze. As a result, community members began making donations at Community Bank in Buna.

Crockett’s sister, Buna resident Betty Johnson, says that the community of Buna has responded in a way that has left her astonished.

“People put up signs in business windows and gave sacrificially,” said Johnson. “There’s no way we would ever know all of the names of those who have given to help Eddie get another home, but if we did, all we could say is thank you from the bottom of our heart.”

A gently used Federal Emergency Management Agency mobile home has recently been purchased for Crockett.

The trailer consists of a master bedroom with a standard size bed, a living area with kitchen and stove, a room with bunk beds, and a bathroom with shower. The trailer is equipped with electricity, air conditioning, indoor heating, and running cold and hot water.

“We used the donated money to help pay for it, and the rest of it has been financed,” said Johnson.

A few of the Buna Volunteer Fire Department firefighters helped move the trailer onto Crockett’s land.

“The people of Buna have taken care of Eddie, and I’m not

just talking about since the fire,” said Johnson. “They have given him money, bought him food, and let him play basketball in their yard. We truly live in a small town with a big heart.”

For those still interested in donating to the fund at Community Bank to help pay for Crockett’s home, the account number is 21221208. For more information, call 994-5954.

deliver the whole package,” said Marie Hawkins. “They deliver the message of Jesus, presented with respect, professionalism, quality, and huge talent.”

The “Southern Raised” style is sophisticated and polished bluegrass.

“They are set apart because of their ability to use bluegrass instruments to lead you to the throne of God,” said Hawkins.

For more information on the concert,call 994-3517.