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Silsbee Jennifer Watters Silsbee Valedictorian
Kristi Barnes Silsbee Salutatorian
Kountze Josie Gunter Kountze Valedictorian
Brittany Long Kountze Salutatorian
Evadale Jamie Richardson Kourtlyn Christian Evadale Evadale Valedictorian Salutatorian
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Congratulations Silsbee Seniors
Wednesday, June 3.2015
Silsbee High School
Following the footsteps of family
The Power to Succeed is in Your Hands
JENNIFER WATTERS – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015 – VALEDICTORIAN
www.countysigns.net
2091 FM 418
Kountze
2015 Lamar University Graduate Bachelor of Science in Sociology
Be proud of this moment Danielle, you deserve it for all the effort and passion you invested. We love you girl! Terry, Debbie & Ryan
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Jennifer Watters high school career was nothing more than an expectation of her own personal goals. Though she was living with parents that were both college graduates and successful in life, she knew she wanted to do the same. It may look easy at how she accomplished the goals she set out to do, but for years of hard work and dedication, she is proud to say that she is the 2015 Silsbee High School valedictorian. “When I was in the third grade, that’s when I decided that I wanted to be the top student,” she said. “I’ve always loved school, and I’ve practically lived at school for the last seven years of my life.” The dedication to becoming a top student paid off for Jennifer, having earned the 2015 Maribeau B. Lamar Scholarship for engineering. To be eligible for the Mirabeau Scholarship, students must score 1250 or above on the SAT or a composite of 28 or greater on the ACT. Prospective scholars must undergo a review of their academic transcripts, submit to a
Photo by Daniel Elizondo/Silsbee Bee
Jennifer Watters earned the 2015 Maribeau B. Lamar Scholarship to Lamar University and major in chemical engineering. She follows the footsteps of her parents, who are both engineers.
personal interview and must be nominated by one of the university's college deans. To maintain the scholarship throughout their academic career, scholars must maintain a 3.5 grade point average and participate in the University Honors Program. The scholarship is valued at $70,000. Jennifer’s next goal in life is to succeed at Lamar University, majoring in chemical engineering, and following in the footsteps of her parents, Al and Joanna, both engineering graduates. “I really love chemistry and I love math,” she said. “I love numbers, I mean – I find numbers and I play games with them in my head.” Jennifer said she didn’t need to be driven by her parents, but drove herself to be the best, solely on the inspiration of their success. Aside from the daily grind of school work, Jennifer says
The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.
Aristotle
she loves dance, playing the piano and reading, although she says she doesn’t much care for analyzing what she has read. “I guess you could say I enjoy studying because I enjoy learning new things,” she said. “When I was a kid, I would watch Discovery Kids or PBS, not all the junky TV. I was a geeky kid.” Jennifer and her family moved to Silsbee when she was 3 years of age, because of her dad’s work travel. “If I could have been treated any better, I don’t know how
that would have been possible here in Silsbee,” Jennifer said. “I’ve had every opportunity to further my education and my high school career I have no complaints. I have had such great teachers.” Some of Jennifer’s high school teachers that inspired and helped her through the course of her career were Ms. Carrell, Ms. Donalson, Ms. Waters, and Ms. Willis. However, Jennifer recalls one of the few times of struggle as a young student, but receiving the proper education from Ms. Day and Ms. Brown in second and third grades. “In those two years I grew so much, because I was challenged creatively,” she said. “I had to learn a lot and I was expected to learn a lot. And I really did – I really enjoyed those classes.” Jennifer says those classes are what pushed her to realize that she could be at the top of her class. It didn’t come easy to finish at the top, always neck-andneck with her two best friends since middle school, Kristi Barnes, who is the salutatorian, and Jessica Barnett, who finished third in the class. “I knew I was at the top, but never really knew if I was no. 1,” she said. “We never really competed. We decided before we even got to high school that anybody that gets it, we’re going to be happy. We all have worked as hard as the other.” Jennifer says the three of them came up with the name “The Trifecta”, and have become close since sixth grade, holding study nights together and making their infamous Sonic runs for a tasty treat to reward themselves after a hard days work. Jennifer has accumulated 30 hours of college credits thus far, and enters Lamar University in the fall.
Jill
Davenport 2015 SHS Grad If you can imagine it, you can achieve it. If you can dream it, you can become it. William Arthur Ward Donnie, Sarah & Riley Gordon
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Wednesday, June 3,2015
THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Silsbee High School
Page 3
Pursuing speech language pathology KRISTI BARNES – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015 – SALUTATORIAN 2015 PHILLIP SOUSA AWARD RECIPIENT
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com
Hard work through the course of school at Silsbee landed Kristi Barnes salutatorian status. Though her and her two best friends continually stayed neckand-neck through middle school and in high school for the top spot, she says she couldn’t be any happier. Barnes will be enrolling at Lamar University over the fall semester and plans on majoring in speech language pathology. “When I was young, I actually had a speech impediment,” Barnes said. “Ever since then, I always knew that was the career path I wanted to take.” Kristi has two brothers that graduated from Lamar University with one of them becoming a music major. Music was in the veins of the Barnes family, leaving Kristi musically inclined and this year’s recipient of the Phillip Sousa
Award for band. Kristi was also busy being a member of student council, Key Club and NHS. She was also involved in UIL math team for two years, and she says she loved math and chemistry in school. “Hard work pays off,” she said. “I’m happy with where I am today, and thankful for being recognized for all of my accomplishments.” Kristi is the daughter of Mark and Michael Barnes, two educators. “Sometimes there was a lot of stress and pressure put on myself,” Barnes said. “My parents were both educators and I put that all on myself. Sure they expected a lot of me, but I was my own worst enemy when it came to pressure.” After pursuing a bachelors degree, Kristi plans on getting a master’s degree.
Best Wishes To All Graduates Especially To
Dameon Bush, 2015 Silsbee Grad
Also, in loving memory of Jamarcus Myers, 2014 Silsbee Senior
386-6300 1170 Hwy 327 E Silsbee
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Kristi Barnes has enrolled to Lamar University to pursue a degree in speech pathology.
SILSBEE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2015 *Ashunta Latrec Adams *Devonthia Marquee Alfred **Zachary Randall Allen *Austin Michael Anderson *Atren Lanarde Arline *Maranda Shantel Baker T'Kyla Sha'ne Baltrip Justin Cyle Barker **Kristi Lee Barnes **Jessica Ann Barnett *Jacob Wayne Bayless *James Kenneth Bean Harley Kaylynne Beaver **Cullen Worley Bebee Cody Earl Bird Kaydee Daniell Bird *Harmony Chantel Biscamp *Ashlee Michelle Biskamp *Monica Paige Blake
Cory Frazier Blincoe *Brian Matthew Bridges Blaire Gail Brown *Matthew Scott Bryan Chelsee Shyanne Burnes *Nikolas Wayne Burris *Destiny Mayesha Butler Appelonia Alzalenia Carey *Braden Wade Carrell Adrian Ray Madrid Carreon **Sandra Carreon Gonzalez **Rachel Christine Cascio *Kirstie Ann Cheek Elizabeth Christine Chisum Dillon Wayne Clark Myra Kathlea Clark **Carli Ashton Cooper *Dillon Franklin Costlow William Barry Cowart
Congratulations
Chambree Smith on your accomplishments. We are so proud of you and look forward to seeing what the future will bring.
Love, Dad, Mom, Neeleigh and family
2015 Silsbee Grad
Matthew Nickola Craft *Shyanne Marie Cravy Letha Rena Idell Crites *Alexis Renee Cryer *Kaylee Brianne Cryer *Carly Anne Elizabeth Czerwinski *Jose Luis Damian *Austin Dakota Davenport *Jill Christine Davenport *Hannah Rachelle Dawson *Hayley Danielle Dawson *Ali Janiece Day Kristen Amber Dickerson Savanna Nicole Dilley *Ruth Ann Drake *Coy James Edds *David Glenn Eller Landon Colt Ewing **Nicole Marie Few Thomas Howard Earl Fondren *Hunter Lee Ford Christian Lynn Foster Marvin Edward Foster Angel Lee Jean Gardner Christopher Andrew Giffin *Lauren Ashley Gilbert Clancy Renea Glasspool *Carly Ann Goff *Connor Joseph Goff Troy Allen Gore **Brayli Jo Griffin *Jason Michael Guy *Vanity Michael Hale *Tate Anthony Hardy Robert Daniel Harlan *Roderick Wayne Harper *Franklin Allen Harris **Joseph Ryan Hart **Brooke Kyndal Harvey *Alexis Nicolette Hawthorne Deontre O'Neil Haynes Keith Allen Haynes Jr. Madisyn Maree Hebert Kody James Hernandez *Laura Brunita Hernandez *Daniel Holton Hess Shelby Lynn Hogan *Elizabeth Marie Hoke *Taylor Ann Hollier *Sidney Isadora Holmes Shalayna Alexis Hudson *Bry Jo Huebel *Cedric Zelshun Irvin Austin Earl Johnson *Colton Andrew Johnson *Pake Dalton Johnson
*Seth Cordell Johnson *George Gordon Jones *Hayley Marie Jones Taloy Tykeira Jones *Dustin Earl Josey *Ashton David Keith Jesse Michael Rowden Keith *Katlin Danielle Kerl **Kristen Alden Key *Dakotah Kaeli Kilday *Ryan Daniel Kirkendall *Beau Cameron Kuebodeaux Meagan Nicolle Lacey Andrew Dante Lakin See GRADS on PG. 4
YOU’VE DONE IT. Now it’s up to you to decide what your next step will be. Whether your’re continuing your education or embarking on a new career. We wish you the best of luck as you create a bright and wonderful future.
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Page 4
THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Best Wishes To All Area Graduates Preparing to defend our country A Special Congratulations To
2015 Silsbee High Grad
2015 Silsbee High Grad
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MATTHEW MCKEON – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Matthew McKeon knew his calling was the armed forces since he was at a young age. “The best thing that has happened so far is that I’m graduating,” McKeon said with a chuckle. “I hate school. I can’t stand it.” McKeon suffers from dyslexia, making it hard for him to learn, but his will to finish never stopped. “I paid people to do my homework,” he said. “I failed three years of high school and went to summer school three years.” Though he is not shy about showing his displeasure about high school, he will admit that he is a history buff and he can ace just about any history test. “I watch the History Channel all day and every day,” McKeon said. “That is my bread and butter, especially military history.” Because his love of history and military, Matthew made the choice to enlist in the Army his junior year at the age of 17, and he is set to go to basic training at Fort Benning in Columbus, GA at the be-
Photo by Daniel Elizondo/Silsbee Bee
Matthew McKeon is ready for basic training as he pursues a career in the U.S. Army.
ginning of June. He will be training to become an 11th Bravo Infantryman, who are the front line
regiment. “I knew I wanted to fight,” McKeon said. Matthew has been learning
about weapons since he was a kid, and made regular visits to Beaumont to play tactical air soft games. “My stepmom is really apprehensive about me enlisting,” McKeon said. “None the less, she is supportive, but not that she agrees with it.” Matthew grew up in a hard life, having lost his birth mom Deanna McKeon when he was 10 years old. “She passed away Dec. 22, 2008,” he said. “I didn’t know what to do. My father didn’t know what to do. It was mass chaos.” Matthew said he became a mean person after the death of his mother and it took him years to get over the loss. Because his father worked in the oil fields and was gone for months at a time, Matthew was forced to stay with a Pentecostal family in Silsbee before living with Martha Dean. While living with Dean, Matthew said that her son, Charlie, took him under his wing, and helped him to become the person he is today. “He was an inspiration to me, because he was dyslexic See McKEON on PG. 5
SILSBEE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2015 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
*Garrett Taylor Lejune Ray Allen Lejune Katie Rasha Lewis **Victoria Gayle Lightfoot Quinston Neal Lockett *Kaylee Breean Lott *Gregory James Lundvick Amy LeeAnn Lyles Emily Cheyenne Martin *Tia Shanta Martin *Payton Shaye McClelland Kolton Wayne McGallion Matthew Ryan McKeon
*Daniel Cruz Moncada Steven Andrew Monday Megan Kennedy Myers *Brianna Marie Nelson *Kelsi Brooke Nixon *Shadye Leigh Nolan-Vaughns *Hannah Elaine Ornduff *Leslie Nicole Orona *Brandon Lee Payne Kevin Dorello Pearson Jr. *Zackary Vincent Pena *Maggie Mikayla Pender *Garrett Tiberius Powell
*James Madison Powell *David Wayne Vincent Rando *Megan Elaine Rawls *Rebekah Nicole Roach *Taylor Nicole Roach Kilpatrick *Chelsea Chanel Robertson **Keith Dewayne Ruggles Cameron Wayne Russ *Jessica Lynneette Scharber Jonathan Wade Scharber Robert Scharber *Taylor Ann Schwartz
A f O n o i s o l p x Have A n E
n o i t a r b Cele Congratulations To All Area Graduates • • • •
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*Jade Alexia Scott Cody Allen Shaw *Zachary David Simental *Christopher Michael Simer Shawnee Naconah Kathr Simpson Bailey Cheyenne Sirmons *Kengel Elizabeth Skaggs **Arden Deborah Smith **Chambree Taylor Smith John Earl Smith *Kimberli Noel Smith Richard Gage Smith Alexis Iliana Sosa *Joshua William Stange *Blaine Alexander Stephens Jacob Isaac Stewart Sh'Kaela J-Ni Stimpson Kenneth Ray Sullivan *Aaron Mark Sumner Layna Mae Kirstin Swope *Ian Michael Tate Nicollette Sharda Thomas Terrence James Thomas *Krysten Renee Thompson *Gus Patrick Tolleson Ashley Le'Anne Townsend Elizabeth Marie Upshaw *Victoria Alyssa Valencia *Lazaro Vasquez III Tevin Keyshawn Walker **Jennifer Cole Watters Johnathan Skyler Weaver K'Drian Christopher Wells *Dalton Cole White Quintessa Daisy White Tyler Joe Whitmire Anfrenee Lee Williams *Michael Wayne Williams A'Ronisha Renae' Wilson Tristan Ray Woods *Dlana Lynn Wright --*Recommended **Distinguished
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Overcoming struggles in a foreign school Alexandra
Castilaw
SANDRA CARREON GONZALEZ – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Sandra Carreon Gonzalez, 19, knew that growing up in a small village in central Mexico was a safe haven with close classmates and a small population of people that all knew each other. However, little did she know that her life would change after her family was granted amnesty in the U.S. Gonzalez’ father, Jose Carreon, had lived in the U.S. for most of his life, having been granted amnesty in 1986. As he fulfilled his life dream of working in the states, he supported his family by finding work and living in Silsbee. His off time was often spent traveling back to his roots in a small village outside of San Miguel de Allende, Guanajato, Mexico, to visit his wife, Isabel Gonzales and their children. After years of working to move his family, Carreon received the papers to have them move four years ago, when Sandra was 15 years of age, and becoming a 10th grader in Mexico. “It was horrible when I moved here,” Sandra said. “I just didn’t like it. I couldn’t speak English so it was hard to make friends.” The struggles were even harder when Sandra learned that counselors felt she should be put into eighth grade at Edwards Johnson Memorial Silsbee Middle School because of her lack in speaking english. Suddenly, a 15-year-old was now in a much larger school taking classes with students 12 and 13 years of age. “I didn’t like middle school at all,” she said. “I wouldn’t
Photo by Daniel Elizondo/Silsbee Bee
Sandra Carreon Gonzalez overcame her struggles in speaking English, and learned the language on her own. She is now enrolled at the University of Houston and prepared to purse a major in business management and French.
talk to people, and I didn’t like the environment that I was in.” Sandra struggled to learn english on her own, having only a small amount of time in a day in an ESL class while in middle school, and practically no friends to help her learn. So she set out to do it all on her own, studying the English language during her off time at home, every day.
“I wanted to communicate with others but I couldn’t,” she said. “So I studied, studied, studied. It was actually easy, because it came quite naturally to me. Language is something that I find comes natural.” Sandra said that she was able to understand a few words, but she would get frustrated at times not knowing complete sentences and the
2015 SILSBEE HIGH SCHOOL SUPERLATIVES
Best All Around Jennifer Watters Devonthia Alfred Most Artistic Dakotah Kilday Roderick Harper
Most Athletic Katlin Kerl Ryan Kirkendall
Cutest Bry Huebel Leslie Orona Kimberli Smith
Best Dancer Ashunta Adams Atren Arline
Best Dressed Talor Jones Michael Williams
Congratulations 2015 SHS Grad
Kristen Dickerson
Biggest Flirt Brayli Griffin Matthew McKeon
Friendliest Brooke Harvey Tate Hardy Funniest Tia Martin K'Drian Wells
Gorgeous Grin Victoria Lightfoot Quintessa White Lazaro Vasquez
Most Handsome Bry Huebel Most Beautiful Kimberli Smith
Best Laugh Destiny Butler Terrence Thomas
I love you and I’m so proud of you!
Most Polite Ali Day Blaine Stephens
Love, Mom
See SUPER on PG. 6
Congratulations!
Tate Hardy
Dad, Mom, Ty, Penelope, Mamaw & Papaw
meaning of what others were saying. Through the first six months in Silsbee, Sandra said she did nothing but study english by reading and writing, and even skipped lunch period to study, because she didn’t have any friends. However, she decided to begin going to lunch, because she wanted to learn to speak English properly, and it was then that she made friends, particularly Ashley and Patricia, she said. Sandra not only struggled to be able to communicate with people, she soon found out that adjusting to a large high school was a different experience from what she was used to. She said growing up in a small village of about 150 people, there was only one classroom for multiple grade levels. And when Sandra entered high school at Silsbee, her world was changing quickly. “I think this was all good for me,” she said. “I knew there was a world out there, I just never saw it. When I came here, I got to see a part of it. I’m glad I moved here because now I want to continue traveling and see other parts of the country.” Sandra continued her studies at Silsbee High School, having to do much of the paperwork and teacher meetings on her own, since her parents could not understand English. “My mom was very involved in my school in Mexico,” she said. “My parents just aren’t able to understand everything that is happening when it comes to school, so I take care of it on my own.”
McKEON
See GONZALEZ on PG. 6
like me,” McKeon said. “He over came all of that and became valedictorian of his class.” Matthew said he was frustrated through high school because of dyslexia, failing a lot of english reports. He is hoping to make it to Airborne jump school after basic training, and then ranger school, or Ranger Assessment and Selection Program. Matthew is the son of Bill and Stephanie McKeon.
Hayley Mariey
Jones
2015 Alvarado High School
2015 SHS Grad
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Congratulations 2015 SHS Graduate
ANGEL GARDNER
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My First Day of School....
From Page 4
Congratulations Cameron Russ 2015 SHS Grad
We love you and are proud of you!
The Silsbee Bee Fan Page
Daddy, Mom & Justin
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Silsbee High School Prom
Silsbee High School
Photo by Daniel Elizondo/Silsbee Bee
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Congratulations Seniors We Are Proud Of You!
Jacob Bayless suffered an injury and changed the scope of his endeavors of becoming a computer animator.
Life in animation JACOB BAYLESS – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Jacob Bayless expected to be in the top 10 of his class, setting high expectations on himself. He accomplished what he had set out to do and finished at a respectable sixth in the class of 2015. “I really wanted to be top
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As you turn the page to the next chapter, the future is yours to write. Fill it with new experiences, good people and rewarding choices that help make the world a better place.
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After speaking to a hispanic friend from the church she attends, she found out that her friend’s son had graduated from high school in three years. That sparked interest in Sandra, who soon began to research on how she could make up the two years she fell behind in order to graduate in a timely manner. “I started talking to counselors to try and figure out how I can graduate fast,” she said. “I was able to pass all of my Spanish classes so that allowed me to take other courses.” Sandra said she took all her basics her freshman year, and
Silsbee
Most Popular Leslie Orona Lazaro Vasquez Shyest Maranda Baker John Smith
10,” Bayless said. “I was actually fifth last year, but I went down one spot my senior year. I know there were repercussions if I brought home low grades, but it was really me that pushed myself. I always asked myself, why not top 10?” Jacob is planning on attendSee BAYLESS on PG. 7
studied on her off-time to gain credits towards graduation. After her junior year, a counselor told her she was lacking some core courses that she could take during the summer in order to graduate this year. “I didn’t have the money to take the core courses over the summer,” she said. “So I took them all in my senior year.” Sandra weathered a senior year that included U.S. history, science, and mathematics. She overcame the struggles and is set to walk the stage as a high school graduate, the first in her family to accomplish the feat. All while holding a job on the weekSmartest Jennifer Watters Jacob Bayless
Photo courtesy Silsbee High School
The 2015 Silsbee High School Prom Queen was Leslie Orona and Prom King was Michael Williams
ends. Sandra’s goals are not complete, and she is preparing for college. She said she has applied to 12 different colleges, but expressed interest in St. Edwards University in Austin. However, she is unable to afford the cost of living despite being offered a scholarship there, so she has accepted an invitation to attend the University of Houston. Sandra will be majoring in business management and French, with the hopes of attaining a job in international business. She said she is already starting to learn the French lan-
Favorite Administrator Mary Sapp Favorite Teacher Mona Harrell-Bodle
Most Likely to Succeed Jennifer Watters Jacob Bayless
guage, and very eager to learn more. “This was self motivation, otherwise I wouldn’t have done this all by myself,” she said. “I would still just be sitting quietly in class with no friends.” Sandra reflects on her life growing up in a primary class in Mexico that had three students to becoming a high school graduate from the United States. “I’m very excited to be going to Houston soon, to experience even more,” she said. “They offer exactly what I’m looking for in my goals to travel the world.”
From Page 5
Dedication Hiawatha Hickman
Most Spirited Jade Scott David Eller
From Page 5
Mr. SHS Jacob Bayless
Miss SHS Jennifer Watters
Favorite Coach Joe Sigler
Class Favorite Leslie Orona Atren Arline
Prom King Michael Williams Prom Queen Leslie Orona
Best Buds Victoria Lightfoot and Kimberli Smith Atren Arline and Lazaro Vasquez
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Silsbee High School Miss Satsuma
THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Page 7
Silsbee High School
2015 SENIOR GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS
Photo courtesy Tammy Lowe-Gilbert
Lauren Gilbert was crowned 2015 Miss Satsuma. She was escorted by Tate Hardy. Miss Satsuma – Lauren Gilbert Brooke Harvey 1st Runner Up – Carli Cooper Katlin Kerl 2nd Runner Up – Ali Day Victoria Lightfoot Payton McClelland Satsuma Candidates Brianna Nelson Kristi Barnes Jade Scott Jessica Barnett Arden Smith Ashlee Biskamp Chambree Smith Destiny Butler Kimberli Smith Rachael Cascio Ashley Townsend Nicole Few Shadye Nolan-Vaughns Angel Gardner Quintessa White Brayli Griffin Jennifer Watters
BAYLESS
ing Sam Houston State University in Huntsville and majoring in computer animation. However, that wasn’t his first inclination to major in when he began thinking about college. “I always wanted to be an author,” Bayless said. “I actually starting writing a few chapters for a fiction novel, but drawing and animation have always been a passion.” Jacob said he was in a GT Independent Study project during his senior year, and thought about finishing his novel in the year long project. But in thinking about his love for computers, he came up with a plan to add animation with it to present it at the
end of the year, which sparked his interest to pursue the career. “I started doing animations with a program called Pivot,” he said. “Then I took classes in Beaumont to learn more complex animation with Flash.” From there, Jacob began working with 3D animations, expanding his knowledge in the field. But Jacob ran into a problem his senior year, after he broke his arm in three different places. This injury has changed the way he would have to perform duties. “I just got the wound off of it,” Bayless said. “I’ve had four different surgeries on it, and I’ve lost function with my
DAVID ELLER 2015 Silsbee High School Grad
From Dad, Mom & Brother. We are proud of you!
Congratulations! Harmony Chantel Biscamp 2015 SHS Grad
United States Army Reserves, $32,000, Adrian Carreon Satsuma Scholarship, $1,000, Ali Day Silsbee Masonic Lodge # 927, $1,000, Ali Day Florence Elizabeth Wright Scholarship, $2,000, Arden Smith James & Doris Perkins: Barlow-Champion Boys Club, $1,000, Arden Smith Jesse Glenn Harrell, Sr. Memorial Scholarship, $500, Arden Smith R.F. "Sleepy" Sanford and Mattie Dee Baker Sanford Memorial Scholarship, $2,000, Arden Smith Silsbee Volunteer Fire Department Scholarship, $1,000, Arden Smith Brittney Withers Memorial Scholarship, $500, Ashlee Biskamp Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, Ashley Townsend Trinity Valley Show Team Scholarship, $6,000, Ashley Townsend Hardin County Area GoTexan, $2,500, Bailey Sirmons James & Doris Perkins: Barlow-Champion Boys Club, $1,000, Beau Kuebodeaux Silsbee High School Fishing Team Scholarship, Brandon Payne United States Army, $150,000, Brayden Carrell Hardin County Sheriff's Benefit Association, $500, Brayli Griffin Silsbee ISD - BERTA C. GORE, $1,000, Brayli Grif-
hand.” The problem is that Jacob broke his right hand, and he is right-handed, forcing him to learn how to use his left hand for writing. And drawing for Jacob came to an end in the time being, until he learns how damaged his hand has become. Jacob is now forced to relegate is animation to 3D animation, which uses mouse and keyboard on computer to create. He can’t do any 2D animation which is drawing on a tablet that goes straight to a computer. “It’s been really tough,” Bayless said. “I was actually born left-handed and my parents taught me how to write right-handed, so I’m making the adjustment, but it’s tough.” Jacob was going to take some core classes and art classes his first year at SHSU, but now the plan has changed and he will be taking all core classes the first year. “It’s a struggle, but I am teaching myself to draw lefthanded,” he said. “Because I was left-handed before and it is coming back slowly.” Jacob said teachers that inspired him in high school were Ms. Carrell, Ms. Bodle, and Ms. Willis, who has been her multimedia teacher. “Considering what happened this year with my arm, I feel accomplished,” Bayless said. “The fact that I still went through the GT program, I was able to drop out if I wanted and quit. It’s like I told the
fin Florence Elizabeth Wright Scholarship, $2,000, Brooke Harvey R.F. "Sleepy" Sanford and Mattie Dee Baker Sanford Memorial Scholarship, $2,000, Brooke Harvey Satsuma Scholarship, $1,000, Brooke Harvey DECA Student Scholarship, $500, Carli Cooper Hardin County Sheriff's Benefit Association, $500, Carli Cooper Satsuma Scholarship, $1,000, Carli Cooper Eastex Federal Credit Union, $500, Chambree Smith United States Army, $150,000, Chris Giffin Cruise 'N Silsbee, $500, Cory Blincoe Christians in Action, $250, Dalton White Silsbee High School Fishing Team Scholarship, Dalton White Edward C. Dominguez Memorial Scholarship, $1,500, Daniel Hess Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, David Eller Silsbee Chapter #298 Order of the Eastern Star, $1,250, David Eller Silsbee Masonic Lodge # 927, $1,000, David Eller 1 M.A.D.D. Mamma: Lester Banks Memorial Scholarship, $500, Destiny Butler Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, Dustin Josey Silsbee High School Fishing Team Scholarship, Greg Lundvick
Kaylee Cryer 2015 Silsbee High School Grad
We are proud of you and we love you! Mom, Meme, Ninny, Madi & Addy
Congratulations!
Gracie Hoyt 2015 Kindergarten Grad
We are very proud of you! Love, Pawpaw & Gigi
675 South 4th St • Silsbee
Jacob Isaac
Stewart
See SCHOLARSHIPS on PG. 10
2015 Silsbee High Grad
From Page 6
judges, if I quit, then it’s like quitting all of my life. I’m definitely proud of where I’ve come and who I am.”
Love Moma & Daddy, Dustin, Dylan, Kristen, Isaiah & Family
If we could give you one thing it would be the ability to see yourself through our eyes. Only then would you realize how truly special you are and how much we love you!
Best Wishes to all 2015 Graduates 2015 Colorado Springs Grad Son of John & Shanna Burgess Grandson of Anna & Jerry Tanton
Meagan
Lacey 2015 Warren Grad Son of John & Missy Ard
Silsbee Oaks Health Care, L.L.P.
Maw, Paw & Uncle Butch
Mom, sister & nanny
920 E. Ave. L 385-5571 Silsbee Anna Tanton, Administrator
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These Silsbee businesses support and congratulate the Silsbee High School graduates of 2015 ROBERT’S PAINT & BODY SHOP
Johnson’s Repairs • Upgrades • Networking On-Site • New & Used
Agent
Call In & Take Out 386-6662
510 W Ave N
8364 Ponderosa Dr (Off Hwy 92 N) • Silsbee Hand Battered Homemade
Mon-Sat
The Wash House 200 Hwy 327 • Silsbee
409-385-0077
Scott and Shawn 8723 Skinner Rd. 385-2074 Silsbee
Silsbee
David Fisher, Attorney at Law 560 4th St Silsbee
325 N 4th St •
925 Hayes Rd Silsbee
385-0061 1051 Hwy 327 E• Silsbee
1195 Hwy 96 S
“A Unique Restaurant” A Cozy, Casual Family Atmosphere, with Orders To Go or Dine In!
5125 Old Hwy 96 Bypass • Silsbee
Tues - Sat 9 am - 9 pm
Silsbee
Hardin County Commissioner Pct. 2 AC • Heat • Refrigeration TACLB014826C
Chris Kirkendall & Staff
420 N. 4th • Silsbee
385-4647
BROOM’S Paint & Body 5145 FM 92
Silsbee
Kenneth Broom - Owner
General Dentistry
112 Pine Plaza • 385-7758 • Silsbee Special Wishes to Allison Davison, 2014 SHS Grad
Paul & Jeannie Durr - Owners 102 Pine Plaza Silsbee
We Sell Lottery Tickets
We Cash Payroll Checks
1-800-410-0061
www.a1wastewater.com
BROOKS SERVICE
COMPANY
Air Conditioning & Heating 1400 N 6th St • Silsbee
386-1200
1350 Hwy 327 E Ste. B
Silsbee
290 FM 421 Lumberton Jimmy Priest, Owner
385-0402 Serving As Your Paint & Body Shop Since 1990
#B019465E
1240 N 5th St.
Silsbee 155 E Ave H • Downtown Silsbee 215 North 5th St
Tue-Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-4
Silsbee
Creole Chicken It’s The Best
Charles E. Reed & Associates, PC Certified Public Accountants 295 Hwy 327 E
Silsbee
344 N 4th St
Silsbee
895-3700 www.SilsbeeToyota.com
385-4445 1490 Kirby Ave Silsbee, Texas TECL#17110
WORLD www.silsbeebee.com • 409-385-5278
• Silsbee
Hours: 8-5 M-F
Over 40 Vendors Located in One Shop
Urgent Care STORAGE
Web and Commercial Printing Matt Reneau - Manager
8351 Bryant Rd. Silsbee
Market On The Square
Silsbee Family Medicine Certified Public Accountant
Residential & Commercial Sales and Service
James & Debby Johnson
Hwy 96 By-Pass
SESCO Skinner Engineering Services
(Country Crossroads)
Insurance Agency
Aletha Kaiser, Owners
550 S. 1st St • Silsbee
Industrial • Residential • Commercial
JACKSON
( )
Fine Diamonds and Gifts 135 East Ave H • Silsbee
MORONES
Attorneys at Law
Barri Hoffman Gillette, FNP, BC 735 N 5th St Silsbee
Ted Vorster • OD, MS 1205 Hwy 327 E • Silsbee (Across from Novrozsky’s)
409-385-2811
SILSBEE FARM & RANCH Owners: Glenn & Peggy Eddings 301 North 3rd • Silsbee
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Wednesday, June 3, 2015
S C H O O L THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
•
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These Silsbee businesses support and congratulate the Silsbee High School graduates of 2015 ROBERT’S PAINT & BODY SHOP
Johnson’s Repairs • Upgrades • Networking On-Site • New & Used
Agent
Call In & Take Out 386-6662
510 W Ave N
8364 Ponderosa Dr (Off Hwy 92 N) • Silsbee Hand Battered Homemade
Mon-Sat
The Wash House 200 Hwy 327 • Silsbee
409-385-0077
Scott and Shawn 8723 Skinner Rd. 385-2074 Silsbee
Silsbee
David Fisher, Attorney at Law 560 4th St Silsbee
325 N 4th St •
925 Hayes Rd Silsbee
385-0061 1051 Hwy 327 E• Silsbee
1195 Hwy 96 S
“A Unique Restaurant” A Cozy, Casual Family Atmosphere, with Orders To Go or Dine In!
5125 Old Hwy 96 Bypass • Silsbee
Tues - Sat 9 am - 9 pm
Silsbee
Hardin County Commissioner Pct. 2 AC • Heat • Refrigeration TACLB014826C
Chris Kirkendall & Staff
420 N. 4th • Silsbee
385-4647
BROOM’S Paint & Body 5145 FM 92
Silsbee
Kenneth Broom - Owner
General Dentistry
112 Pine Plaza • 385-7758 • Silsbee Special Wishes to Allison Davison, 2014 SHS Grad
Paul & Jeannie Durr - Owners 102 Pine Plaza Silsbee
We Sell Lottery Tickets
We Cash Payroll Checks
1-800-410-0061
www.a1wastewater.com
BROOKS SERVICE
COMPANY
Air Conditioning & Heating 1400 N 6th St • Silsbee
386-1200
1350 Hwy 327 E Ste. B
Silsbee
290 FM 421 Lumberton Jimmy Priest, Owner
385-0402 Serving As Your Paint & Body Shop Since 1990
#B019465E
1240 N 5th St.
Silsbee 155 E Ave H • Downtown Silsbee 215 North 5th St
Tue-Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-4
Silsbee
Creole Chicken It’s The Best
Charles E. Reed & Associates, PC Certified Public Accountants 295 Hwy 327 E
Silsbee
344 N 4th St
Silsbee
895-3700 www.SilsbeeToyota.com
385-4445 1490 Kirby Ave Silsbee, Texas TECL#17110
WORLD www.silsbeebee.com • 409-385-5278
• Silsbee
Hours: 8-5 M-F
Over 40 Vendors Located in One Shop
Urgent Care STORAGE
Web and Commercial Printing Matt Reneau - Manager
8351 Bryant Rd. Silsbee
Market On The Square
Silsbee Family Medicine Certified Public Accountant
Residential & Commercial Sales and Service
James & Debby Johnson
Hwy 96 By-Pass
SESCO Skinner Engineering Services
(Country Crossroads)
Insurance Agency
Aletha Kaiser, Owners
550 S. 1st St • Silsbee
Industrial • Residential • Commercial
JACKSON
( )
Fine Diamonds and Gifts 135 East Ave H • Silsbee
MORONES
Attorneys at Law
Barri Hoffman Gillette, FNP, BC 735 N 5th St Silsbee
Ted Vorster • OD, MS 1205 Hwy 327 E • Silsbee (Across from Novrozsky’s)
409-385-2811
SILSBEE FARM & RANCH Owners: Glenn & Peggy Eddings 301 North 3rd • Silsbee
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Congratulations!
Who’s gonna fill their shoes?
Ryan Hart 2015 Silsbee High School Grad
You have grown into a fine young man and we are so very proud of you! Continue allowing God to lead you and you will go far. Gig ‘Em! We Love You! Dad, Mom, Zach & Dylan Proverbs 3:5-6
Shelby Hogan 2015 Silsbee High School Grad
We Love You! Mom & Dad
Gary D. Freeman, AAMS® Financial Advisor
959 N. 5th Street Silsbee, TX 77656 (409) 385-0410
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com George Jones Jr. of Silsbee may not be the musician everyone knows, but he will tell you that he is a seasoned harmonica player. Having worked summers at the Hardin County Airport while his dad George Jones Sr. was working there, he received a harmonica from a frequent flyer into the airport. “He taught me how to play a couple of songs,” Jones said. “I just took it from there, and basically now I’m self taught.” George isn’t your typical high school student, having been involved in the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) program since his sophomore year. “School has come natural to me, but it hasn’t been super important,” Jones said. “I’ve
GEORGE JONES JR. – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015 had to do a lot of things that kids don’t normally do.” George has been working at Market Basket in Lumberton for the last three years, and he says he was probably the only sophomore at Silsbee High School working at that time. At 15 years of age, he received a hardship driver’s license to get himself to work. “I’m basically a front end manager right now,” he said. “When I get out of high school, they will put me in manager’s training.” George has been a manager for about a year, and his responsibilities are far more than expected for a high school senior. He works in the booth of the grocery store, responsible for closing time and managing money in the booth. He says he started at Market
SCHOLARSHIPS
Stuart - Griffin-Perlitz Foundation, $2,000, Gus Tolleson Christians in Action, $250, Hayley Jones Silsbee Chapter #298 Order of the Eastern Star, $1,250, Hayley Jones Silsbee ISD - Wells Peyton, $500, Jacob Bayless Silsbee Woman's Club: Lucille Moreland Scholarship, $2,000, Jacob Bayless Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, Jade Scott 1 M.A.D.D. Mamma: Lester Banks Memorial Scholarship, $500, Jade Scott Satsuma Scholarship, $1,000, Jade Scott Silsbee ISD - BERTA C. GORE, $1,000, Jade Scott James Kenneth Bean III Memorial Scholarship, $10,000, James Bean Lamar University - Beaumont: Mirabeau B. Lamar Scholarship, $70,000 $80,000, Jennifer Watters Carol Shilling Memorial Scholarship, $1,000, Jessica Barnett Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, Jessica Barnett Silsbee ISD - BERTA C. GORE, $1,000, Jessica Barnett
Class of 2015
Especially our Silsbee Brookshire Bros 2015 Senior Employees
See JONES on PG. 11
Silsbee Kiwanis Club David Read Memorial, $2,000, Jessica Barnett Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, Jill Davenport Hardin County Sheriff's Benefit Association, $500, Jill Davenport United States Army, $150,000, John Smith United States Army, $150,000, Jose Damian Eastex Federal Credit Union, $500, Joseph Ryan Hart Frazier, Waldo, Matthews, Robinson Alumni Scholarship, $500, Katie Lewis Cruise 'N Silsbee, $500, Keith Ruggles Lamar University - Beaumont: Cardinal Scholarship, $6,000 a year, Keith Ruggles Lamar University - Beaumont: General Academic Scholarship, $3000 a year, Keith Ruggles Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, Kristen Key Silsbee Classroom Teacher's Association Scholarship, $1,000, Kristen Key Silsbee ISD - James S. Conne, $1,000, Kristen Key Eastex Federal Credit Union, $500, Kristi Barnes Hardin County Go-Texan Scholarship: Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, $18,000, Kristi Barnes Hardin County Rotary Club Scholarship, $250, Kristi Barnes Lamar University - Beaumont: General Academic Scholarship, $3000 a year, Kristi Barnes Silsbee ISD - Edgar & Estelle O’Neil, $1,000, Kristi Barnes Silsbee Masonic Lodge # 927: Mirabeau B. Lamar Award, Kristi Barnes DECA Student Scholarship, $500, Leslie Orona Silsbee Lions Evening Club, $2,000, Maranda Shantel Baker
Photo by Daniel Elizondo/Silsbee Bee
George Jones Jr. has already made a jump-start in the work world as a seasoned employee while in the DECA program at Silsbee High School.
United States Army, $150,000, Matthew McKeon Whataburger Basketball Scholarship, $450, Michael Williams Silsbee Lions Club - SHS Leo Club Member, $2,000, Nicole Few The Ford Family Award for Excellence in the Arts, $750, Nicole Few James & Doris Perkins: Barlow-Champion Boys Club, $1,000, Nicollette Thomas Texas Association of Vocational Adjustment Coordinators Scholarship, $2,000, Nicollette Thomas Education First Federal Credit Union Scholarship, $1,000, Rebekah Roach Hardin County Area GoTexan, $1,000, Rebekah Roach United States Army,
Silsbee
Matthew McKeon United States Army, Adrian Carreon United States Army, John Smith Silsbee ISD - BERTA C. GORE, $1,000, Sandra Carreon-Gonzales Edward C. Dominguez Memorial Scholarship, $1,500, Shayde NolanVaughns Satsuma Scholarship, $1,000, Shayde NolanVaughns Silsbee Silver Lining Scholarship, $200, Shayde Nolan-Vaughns James & Doris Perkins: Barlow-Champion Boys Club, $1,000, Sidney Holmes Texas Association of Vocational Adjustment Coordinators Scholarship, $2,000, Tevin Walker
Class of 2015 Especially These Special Grads
Taylor Roark Kilpatrick 2015 SHS Grad
James Payne
2015 LHS Grad
Brianne Horn
2015 LHS Grad
PAYNE’S Anytime...Anywhere 24 Hour Wrecker Service
Wrecker Service, Inc. Body Shop, Inc.
1310 Hwy 327 E • Silsbee, TX 77656
(409) 385-3277
Congratulations to all of our local 2015 graduates!
Pictured above from left to right: Talor Jones, Atren Arline, Lazaro Vasquez III, Leslie Orona, Kengel Skaggs and Dalton White. Not pictured are: Thomas Fondren and Matthew McKean
333 S. Fifth St.
From Page 7
145 Hwy 96 S
Silsbee
OPEN: Mon-Fri 7am - 5:30pm • Saturday 7am - 5pm
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Rekindling with a mother SHADYE NOLAN-VAUGHNS – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Shadye Nolan-Vaughns has grown up in Silsbee all of her life, being raised by her Godparents since she began kindergarten. She basically knew no different until one day during her sophomore year. Shadye had known her mother was sent to prison on that dreadful day when she was 5-years-old. And as a sophomore at Silsbee High School, her mother was released, and it was the beginning of rekindling their relationship. “It was hard for me,” Nolan-Vaughns said. “To me, it was like, this person wants to know everything about me, and I know nothing about her. My initial thoughts were that I have two mom’s now, so what do you do with that?” Shadye was raised by Lillian and Louis Gilbert in Silsbee, and she says it was a blessing in her life. The family raised her in a Pentecostal church, and she says she wouldn’t be who she is today if it weren’t for them. “I am who I am today because of them,” she said. “I don’t want to imagine where I would be, not that my mom was a bad person.” She admits that being raised by a caring family helped her cope with her life. However, she says that she was still missing something. “Looking around at other kids having their families, moms and dads so close, I remember at times being jealous of that,” she said. “I’m so
Photo by Daniel Elizondo/Silsbee Bee
Shadye Nolan-Vaughns hadn’t seen her mother since she was sentenced to a federal prison when she was in kindergarten. When she became a sophomore, it was her first meeting to rekindle that mother-daughter relationship.
grateful of what I had, but there is something that is good between a mother and a daughter that was missing.” Shadye said that her Godmother had always told her biological mom that she would never take the place of her. Shadye had planned on spending more time with her mother during her sophomore year, but she suffered a stroke
that paralyzed a part of her body. She plans on spending the summer time with her in Fort Worth in hopes of getting to know more of her. Though she says her Godparents are encouraging her to visit, she says they are sad because of the distance. Ironically when Shadye met her father for the first time
since she was young, they were at a circus when her mother noticed her biological father there. Shadye never knew her dad. “She basically told me that he was my dad,” she said. “I didn’t believe her, but she reassured me that, that was him.” Shadye has taken up health sciences at Silsbee High School, and was inspired by Ms. Middleton, who was also working towards becoming a nurse practitioner while teaching. “She cares so much about us,” she said. “She cares enough to tell us real world things – things that people don’t ever tell you.” Shadye plans on attending Lamar University and majoring in nursing with a minor in social work. Her future plans include opening her own foster home named after her Godparents. “They did take in kids that they knew needed to be taken in and needed that love,” she said. “I want to do that for somebody else, because I know what it’s like to be in that place.” Shadye worked at a nursing home over the summer, having gone through the Certified Nursing Assistance program at Silbee High School. She is now certified to work in the state. “Being able to help someone, even though it may be so little, is something I love doing,” she said. “Being that light in their day makes me so happy.”
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go.” Dr. Seuss
General Dentistry • Family Practice
Joe R. Keneson, DDS James Landis, DDS
Eleven must-haves for your dorm
The Internet is full of checklists that can help you and your child find the essentials for dorm room living. But some items often get disregarded and others don’t get put on the packing list at all. Here are 11 items you should be sure to pack in the car, or purchase once you arrive on campus with your child.
1. Portable fan Many dorms are not airconditioned, but opening the windows in the late summer heat could attract bugs. Having a small fan next to the bed will keep your child cool at night without disturbing their roommate.
2. Office chair Your child’s school will provide a desk chair, but it may be uncomfortable. Think about investing in a wheeled office chair to replace the old wooden one given to your child, which will make those long nights of studying much easier.
3. DVDs Movies will be a great way for your child to take a break from studying. Be sure to pack their favorite movies and TV shows, which they can share with their roommates and friends on the weekends.
4. Disinfecting wipes A new school year can mean exposure to new germs, especially if your child is living with a roommate. Pack plenty of disinfecting wipes for things like doorknobs and faucets, which will help your child stay healthy.
5. Plunger If the toilet or sink is clogged, and maintenance can’t get there fast enough, your child will need a plunger nearby. Keep one in the bathroom in case of mishaps.
6. Flip-flops Living in a dorm often means sharing a bathroom with numerous people. Pick up a pair of flip-flops at the dollar store that your child can
wear in the shower, to keep their feet free of any bacteria.
7. Dish soap Many dorms now feature sinks in each room, which means your child will need to stay on top of the dishes. Purchase a bottle of dish soap large enough to last them through the year.
8. Fly swatter If your child is living in a dorm, especially on the first floor, bugs will be unavoidable. He or she will want a fly swatter to take care of fastmoving or stubborn creatures.
9. Dry-erase boards with adhesives Sticking a dry-erase board on the front of the door, or on the wall in the bedroom, will allow your child to write messages to their friends, as well as remind themselves of important to-do list items. Pick up one or two at the campus bookstore, along with markers and an eraser.
10. Extension cords and power strips TV, DVD player, computer, printer, hair dryer – your child will need a lot of outlets at school. Make sure they bring at least one power strip, with plenty of extension cords to reach under the desk or bed.
Cravens Insurance Agency Carey, Rob, Michelle, Chloe, Amy & Lisa
See DORM on PG. 12
You’ve worked hard, and proved you can succeed. Now it’s on to bigger and brighter things. The world is yours for the taking graduates.
Looking to Our Future Congratulations 2015 Graduates 2015 Vidor HS Grad Daughter of Brenda Smith, Business Office Director
Citizen Bank
Kiwanis Club
Mobiloil FCU
Mead Westvaco
Entergy
Individual Member
Community Bank of Texas
Novrozsky’s
South Hampton
Better Business Bureau
Individual Member
2015 Silsbee HS Grad Son of Diane Smith, RCS
Call Today
385-0033 705 FM 418 West
409-385-0033
Silsbee, Tx
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Silsbee High School
Graduation Party Food Headquarters Congratulations Class of 2015 Special Wishes To
Jimmy Bean 2015 Silsbee High Grad
Mesquite Smoked Meats and Homemade Pies and Rolls
Hwy 96 By-Pass • Silsbee, TX
Congratulations Class of 2015!
JEFF’S PAINT & BODY All Insurance Claims Welcome
Lifetime Warranty
386-1400
From Africa to Silsbee By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Arden Smith had been home-schooled for most of her life. When her parents made the decision to move to Africa when she was in fourth grade, it was a quest to spread a religious word, and she was accepting of it all. “Growing up, I’ve never been very sheltered,” Smith said. “I never really had a fear for anything.” Smith and her family were granted permission to get a one-way ticket to Kenya with no return ticket home, and $150 to the family’s name. When they arrived, they immediately found a home to rent, and in no time, they took in a mother and her two children. Arden says they became their family, and they nestled their home outside of Kenya. While there, Arden says they did mission work, while handing out free food and clothes in the five years that they were there. Arden got as much education as she could through home-schooling by her mother, but she still lacked in math skills, which was difficult for her to learn when she re-entered public school as a high school freshman. Thanks to Coach Nelson, Arden feels she was able to gain some ground with his patience in helping her learn. “He let me learn at a pace that I was used to,” she said. “If it weren’t for him, I don’t know where I would be with math today.” Arden returned to Silsbee older and mature, with hopes of keeping friends she had made in the third grade. Her one friend remained in contact with her throughout her stay in Africa, and the adjustment was not as bad as she anticipated. “Of course when I had come back, people had
ARDEN SMITH – SILSBEE CLASS OF 2015
Photo by Daniel Elizondo/Silsbee Bee
Arden Smith has experienced missionary work in Africa and lived out of the country for five years before returning to public school in Silsbee.
changed – I had changed,” Smith said. “But my friend Brooke from third grade was my rock. It was easy to adjust.” Arden says her and her family have done mission trips all over the world, including Mexico and Costa Rica. “I can honestly say there is no other place I’d rather live than in Silsbee, Texas,” she said. “It’s home. And you have everything accessible at your fingertips, and people just don’t realize that.” Arden’s experiences in Africa go beyond mission trips, having entered the country during turmoil and elections that saw a lot of fighting. Her family was forced out of a home after six months of
living there. However, they were able to find refuge in a different home as the fighting escalated. “The two tribes were fighting against each other during the election,” Smith said. “There was murdering and raping. It was a scary situation, but I grew up pretty fast.” Arden’s parents began doing missionary work when she says her mother found a calling. The created a non-denominational group called Days of Elijah. Arden and her parents did a lot of crusades and preached the Gospel to Kenyans. “Every time we gave away food or clothes, we told them it was by the grace of God,”
Story behind “Pomp and Circumstance”
You’ve passed the test with flying colors! Congratulations to the entire graduating class of 2015 on a stellar achievement. Thanks for making us proud!
Certified Public Accountant
180 W. Ave. O
385-3200
Silsbee
When asked to list renowned classical composers, Mozart or Beethoven may come to mind. Many people may not think to mention Edward Elgar. But there's an excellent chance thousands of people are very familiar with the most famous work by Elgar. "Pomp and Circumstance" is undoubtedly Elgar's biggest claim to fame. It has become the standard to which many soon-to-be graduates proceed into their graduation cere-
monies, both in high school and college. As such, it has become one of the most recognized concert marches. The song -- the trio section of the first march in a series written by Elgar -- was not written with the intention of being a graduation processional. Elgar built up his reputation as a composer of works for great choral festivals throughout England. In 1901, Elgar began composing five marches that would be named "Pomp and Circumstance Marches." He is perhaps best known for the first of the marches, which went on to be simply named, "Pomp and Circumstance," or "The Graduation March." Since 1905, it has been use at virtually all high school and university graduations in America. The first time "Pomp and Circumstance" was played in
a graduation setting was when Elgar received an honorary Doctorate from Yale University in 1905. At the end of the ceremony, the march was performed as recessional music. It was so well received that it was soon expected to be played during graduation ceremonies at many other prominent schools. Today it is rare to hear "The Graduation March" played outside of commencement ceremonies. Many graduates have fond memories of hearing "Pomp and Circumstance" at their school commencement, even remembering the exact moment they received their degrees. For those attending a graduation ceremony in the near future, expect to hear this powerful march.
she said. “We told them this was not us and because of us, but because God loves them.” Due to corruption in the religious world of Kenya, Arden says it was up to them to teach them the true meaning, as opposed to many that posed as religious leaders for the sole purpose of money. “There were some rural people that had never heard of Jesus before,” Smith said. “We found a film in Swahili and showed it to them. It opened their eyes to something they had no idea had happened.” Though Arden says she never formally learned the language of Swahili, she understands it and can speak some portions. She said that there are as many as 42 different tribes there that all speak a different language that is based from Swahili, and that there could be different dialects within each of those languages, which causes quite a bit of confusion. Arden says she went on her own on a mission trip two years ago to Costa Rica, and she plans to continue to go on mission trips as time permits. When she returned to Silsbee as a freshman, she fell in love with theater, and plans to begin college at Blinn in Brenham before transferring to Texas A&M to major in liberal arts. Ms. Webb, a former theater arts teacher at Silsbee High School, inspired Arden and her love for the stage. “My biggest passion in life, besides mission work, is theater,” she said. “If I could do something with theater in my life, I would be thrilled.” Arden is hoping that someday her Kenyan family will be able to move to the states, but until then, they will visit them as much as possible.
DORM 11. Printer
From Page 11
As soon as classes start, your child will hit the ground running with assignments. But printing at the library may cost money. Instead, send your child to school with a printer of their own, fully stocked with ink cartridges and paper. … And don’t forget the duct tape. It’ll come in handy at some point during the school year.
The Silsbee Bee Fan Page
Class of 2015!
Special Best Wishes to our 2015 Silsbee High School Grad Employees
Alexis Cryer and Blaire Brown
SONIC GIFT CARDS
We’d like to take a moment to congratulate our area graduates on this milestone accomplishment. We wish all of you continued success as you pursue new challenges and goals after graduation.
860 Hwy 96 • Silsbee
385-4911
1230 Hwy 96 South Silsbee wphillips3@farmersagent.com
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Lumberton High School Wednesday, June 3, 2015
THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
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Striving for the best in the class ZACHARY KELLAS – LUMBERTON CLASS OF 2015
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Zachary Kellas of Lumberton found out his sophomore year he was ranked third. It was then that he realized that the chance to become valedictorian or salutatorian was a goal he could reach. By the beginning of his senior year, he was ranked number two of his class. “It’s because I know what I’m capable of, and I always try to be my best,” Kellas said. Kellas has a mixture of interests and can’t really be classified in any particular category. First off, he likes sports. He played football from his freshman to his junior year, and he is also a varsity powerlifter. The summer after his junior year, he decided to do something different than football. Kellas started taking a Brazilian jiu-jitsu class last year on the first Monday of June. He has taken it ever since and has fallen in love with it. He has even looked into join-
Photo courtesy
Zachary Kellas is aiming for a mechanical engineering degree at Texas A&M University.
ing a club on campus at Texas A&M University, where he plans to attend college. Despite being active in sports, Kellas also loves to
read. His favorite book is “The Count of Monte Cristo”. According to him, it’s elaborate and contains many side
LIT announces President’s, Vice President’s lists Lamar Institute of Technology announces its President’s and Vice President’s lists for the Spring 2015 semester. Students on the President’s List maintained a GPA of 4.0; students on the Vice President’s List earned a GPA of 3.4 to 3.99. Students on the President’s List are: Baytown: Paul Javier. Beaumont: Kayla Nicole Borne, Sophia Loraine Charlot, Christine N. Church, Christine L. Comer, Ricardo Compean, Brian Barker Free, Gage Lasater Gardner, David Wayne Greer, Brian Adam Handly, Md Monimul Haque, Robert Calvin James, Ryan Johnsen, Tameika Michelle Johnson, Britton Patrick Jones, Jeremiah Demarcus Kelly, Karen Lynn Kelly, Cameron Leslie Love, Terry Sang Nguyen, Kristin Sherette Owens, John Michael Phillips, Kassandra Denise Pitre, Hillary Dale Poullard III, Addie Grace Richardson, Victoria Elizabeth Riffe, Hope Evette Robinson, Dylan Reese Rogers, Andrew Dinh Salgado, Dylan James Savoy,
Troy L. Sellers, Matthew Brian Snure, Thomas Joseph Stovall, Trang T. Truong, Erin Jachelle Turk, David Thanh Vo, Sabrina Marie Whittley, Cori Uliss Wiliams, Brenda Michelle Young. Bossier City, La.: Eric S. Olsen. Bridge City: Johnathan D. Curl, Caryn Lynn Odom, Carlos Vargas. Buna: Chad Lee Eickenhors, Ramona Lynn Tate, Tommy Dean Tate Jr., Daniel Phillip Wright. Burkeville: Bobby R. Vanveckhovan. Deweyville: Kurt Aaron Stephenson II. Evadale: Kenneth Lane Bean. Groves: Charles Joseph Anselmo III, Jenifer Hamil, Robert Lynn Kennedy, Ethan Josiah Pedraza. Hamshire: Jessica Maureen Abshire, Jeremy Elisha Brister, Sarah Elizabeth Cooper, April Nicole Stutes. Jasper: Brady Mccray Hebert, Heather Marie Oalmann. Kirbyville: Tanner Lee Sims. Kountze: Joshua Eugene
Alfaro, Jarrod Elliot Droddy, Cash Gonzales. Mariela Briones Perez. Leesville, La.: Demetrius Devaun Mark. Livingston: August Nicole Conatser. Lumberton: Fred Anthony Chauvin, Avery Mahlyn Hemmings, Tyler Jude Laudig. Nederland: Julio Alberto Alvarez, Brenden Mitchell Babin, Vaughan C. Campbell, Darrin Zackary Cooper, Bryce Paul Darder, Russell Wayne Henckel, Slade Alan Hicks, Rachel Ann Honza, Emily Taylor Landrum, Mike Tinh Le, Scott Van Nguyen, Maleika Lillian Nugent, Aubry Brooke Placette. Orange: Jalanta Cuyler Allen, Quinton James Carriere, Joseph Daniel Daigle, Joshua Blake Fuss, Brian Paul Latiolais, Cory Allen Rogers, John Kenneth Sanderson, Joseph Eric Taylor, Mack G. Toler IV, Miguel Alonso Vela Jr., Andrew Mann Wappler, Ryan Douglas Whitten, Jordan Lynn Worthy.
plots. It has a mixture of action, complex drama, deceit, and redemption for its characters. However, it is 1,200 pages long. Other organizations that Kellas is a part of include National Honor Society, student body council, and the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Organization. The organization is a national leadership one that he joined his sophomore year. Kellas won a scholarship to go to their Advanced Leadership Academy last October. He plans to go again this year as a junior facilitator. However, the most important interest of Zachary Kellas is his love of math. “I am best at math and could see myself in an engineering position,” he stated. Kellas plans on majoring in mechanical engineering at Texas A&M University in College Station. His diverse interests will keep him busy while he is away at college.
Silsbee High School Who’sWho Jacob Bayless Cullen Bebee David Eller Tate Hardy Greg Lundvick Zackary Pena Blaine Stephens Kristi Barnes Jessica Barnett Rachel Cascio Carli Cooper Ali Day Brayli Griffin Dakotah Kilday Shadye Nolan-Vaughns Jade Scott Jennifer Watters
All 2015 Silsbee High School Grads 2015 Buna High School Grad
480 S 7th St
Silsbee
Congratulations!
Gracie Hoyt 2015 Kindergarten Grad
We are very proud of you! Love, Pawpaw & Gigi
675 South 4th St • Silsbee
2015 Graduates
Especially
Cory Moore 2015 SHS Grad Wishing You All The Best! May your education and experience as a student serve you well in your career and your future. We wish you much happiness and fulfillment.
Congratulations on your graduation achievement!
210 N 5th
See LIT on PG. 14
ART • CHAPEL • CHARACTER • COMPUTERS • FRIENDS • MATH • MUSIC • PHONICS • SCIENCE
Congratulations To Our Graduating Class 2015 FBC Kindergarten
You’ve earned high credits, grads. We are confident you will find success.
350 Hwy. 96 385-3883 Silsbee www.fbcacademy.net ART • CHAPEL • CHARACTER • COMPUTERS • FRIENDS • MATH • MUSIC • PHONICS • SCIENCE
Mayor Herbert Muckleroy Council members: Jim Willis, James Collins, Thomas Tyler, Adalaide Balaban, Chris Barnes, Sue Bard, and all City employees
Silsbee
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“Take action. Every story you've ever connected with, every leader you've ever admired, every puny little thing that you've ever accomplished is the result of taking action. You have a choice. You can either be a passive victim of circumstance or you can be the active hero of your own life.”
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Bradley Withford
Peyton
Sells
Logan McClelland
2015 Kindergarten Grad
2015 Kountze Kindergarten Grad
All your family especially MawMaw Carol
Mama, Daddy & Nathan
Madison
Sarah
Frazier
Parker
2015 Kindergarten Grad
2015 Kindergarten Grad
THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Lumberton High School
Paving the way for the Marines MAISIE OHLER – LUMBERTON CLASS OF 2015
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Maisie Ohler has only what a small population have: a twin. The most interesting thing about Maisie isn’t that she has a twin, but that she had to refamiliarize herself with that fact after receiving a concussion and losing her memory. In 2012, on Labor Day Weekend, Ohler and her family were enjoying a trip to the beach. She was riding in a mule her father was driving, and mounted to the top was a 45 pound wooden box. One side of the box came loose and hit Maisie in the head, knocking her out. When she woke up, she was in the hospital with her family crying over her. Ohler had to re-meet several family members, and it took her a little bit to even recognize her immediate family members, including her twin sister. She stayed in the hospital for about a week; relearning how to walk. However, Ohler didn’t go back to school for six months, as she had nine different surgeries and procedures done. “I felt like I was never going to get better,” she said. While recovering, her friends took the chance to stop by so that Ohler could get to know them again. It was a bit overwhelming for the Lumberton senior.
She would have people ask her all the time if she remembered them, and it would just make her cry because she couldn’t. Ohler’s parents and close friends encouraged her to make the best of what she did have. Her parents told her that she could just make new memories and not to worry about the old ones. Although she lost her memories and received a concussion, something good did come out of her experience. “My parents think I am a completely different person,” Ohler said. “I was told that before the accident I didn’t really care about anything. I was failing most of my classes, and now I’m making all A’s and B’s.” Before her concussionn Ohler played soccer, softball, and select volleyball, but after the accidentshe had to quit soccer and volleyball because her neurologist didn’t think participating was a good idea. She hasn’t let her injury hold her back. Ohler has every intention of joining the Marine Corp. after she graduates. Her family and friends were a little shocked by her choice. Ohler has remained steadfast in her decision to go into the military. She is both nervous and excited. Her dad, on the other hand, wasn’t. “He started crying and told me it was stupid, and I wasn’t
2015 LUMBERTON HIGH SCHOOL GRADS
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Mom & Dad
From your very proud family
Graduation 2015
Those late nights and weekends spent studying and working have earned you success. We’re proud of our town’s graduates, and we wish each of you the best in your journey ahead.
740 Hwy 96
118 N Main
1005 Hwy 96 Bypass
645 S. Pine St.
Graduation 2015
Congratulations and Best Wishes All ‘15 Grads
Luke Olen Nelson+* Thomas Neale Newton* Taylor Nicole Odom* Maddison Marie Ohler* Maisie Elisabeth Ohler Cade Wayne Overbey Keely Rae Ozio* Amy Elizabeth Page*** James Joseph Payne* Trystin Lane Payne* Joseph Anthony Edward Peddy* Chase Tanner Pellerin* Jace Lee Pendino* Kayla Renee Perez* Joshua Caleb Perkins* Robert Brian Peterson, Jr.* Jordan Miguel Piedra* Stephen John Lucas Pieper* Courtney Wailani Pipps* Joseph Louis Plaia* Taylor Nicole Powell* Lindsey Rose Pratt* Sabrina Alexandra Priest* Chelsey Alece Puente*** Abbygale Marie Rains* Keifer Austyn Rains* Kyleigh Leeanne Randall* Emily Nicole Reinert** Maci Ann Riecken* Autumn Brooke Rojo*** Colleen Elise Routt* Christian Evanny Maldona Rubio* John Charles Sanchez* Brody Mitchell Saxe* Lauren Renee Scarborough*** Briana Kristine Schmidt* Emilee Rae Sitton* Cameron Reed Smith Lanie Danielle Smith*** Maddison Raeann Nora Smith Madison Teneille Smith Grant Taylor Soileau* Peyton Danielle Spears Alexis Brett Spera* Dalton Wade Steinbarth* Nathaniel Tristan Stephens* Matthew Lee Streety**** Dylan Joe Stringer* Colton Michael Stuntz Daniel Patrick Caleb Sullins* Cole Andrew Swearingen Meridith Belle Swindells* Timothy Jacob Talley* James Douglas Tamblyn III* Emily Grace Tassin* Makayla Elizabeth Terrell Joshua David Terry* Breelyn Elise Thames*** Sierrah Naquole Thatcher* Kayla Nicole Thomas****
Parker Riley Reyne Townley-Smith*** Jessica Maegan Tweedel*** Nicholas Conner Van Dorn* Jael Rachel Roy Varble* Kaelyn Jill Vaughn Chad Everett Venable Trey Chance Venable* Callie Ashton Watkins* Jordan Renee Welborn*** Cody Michael Welch* Madison Morgan West* Jessica Denise Whitworth* Christopher Thomas Wideman* Stephen Ryan Wilson* Kavan Thomas Wise* Samantha Leigh Wise* Tristan Kyle Wise* Riley Cole Womack*** Keevin Lee Wood* Megan Elizabeth Worry*** Jacob Paul Wright* Sheena Dae Yarbrough* Brooks Allen Young* Michael Thomas Yu*** Kennedy Alexa Zoll*
+ Three Year Graduate * Recommended ** Distinguished Achievement *** National Honor Society and Recommended **** National Honor Society and Distinguished Achievement
going,” Ohler said. “Then he talked to my staff sergeant, and now he supports it a little more.” Ohler compared her excitement to become a marine to that of stepping onto a softball field for the first game of the season.
After a concussion and memory loss, any other obstacle that comes her way will seem mild by comparison. Ohler is determined to take control of her life and the direction it’s going in.
LIT announces President’s, Vice President’s lists
Lamar Institute of Technology announces its President’s and Vice President’s lists for the Spring 2015 semester. Students on the President’s List maintained a GPA of 4.0; students on the Vice President’s List earned a GPA of 3.4 to 3.99. Students on the President’s List are: Baytown: Paul Javier. Beaumont: Kayla Nicole Borne, Sophia Loraine Charlot, Christine N. Church, Christine L. Comer, Ricardo Compean, Brian Barker Free, Gage Lasater Gardner, David Wayne Greer, Brian Adam Handly, Md Monimul Haque, Robert Calvin James, Ryan Johnsen, Tameika Michelle Johnson, Britton Patrick Jones, Jeremiah Demarcus Kelly, Karen Lynn Kelly, Cameron Leslie Love, Terry Sang Nguyen, Kristin
Sherette Owens, John Michael Phillips, Kassandra Denise Pitre, Hillary Dale Poullard III, Addie Grace Richardson, Victoria Elizabeth Riffe, Hope Evette Robinson, Dylan Reese Rogers, Andrew Dinh Salgado, Dylan James Savoy, Troy L. Sellers, Matthew Brian Snure, Thomas Joseph Stovall, Trang T. Truong, Erin Jachelle Turk, David Thanh Vo, Sabrina Marie Whittley, Cori Uliss Wiliams, Brenda Michelle Young. Bossier City, La.: Eric S. Olsen. Bridge City: Johnathan D. Curl, Caryn Lynn Odom, Carlos Vargas. Buna: Chad Lee Eickenhors, Ramona Lynn Tate, Tommy Dean Tate Jr., Daniel Phillip Wright. See LIT on PG. 15
NS CONGRATUL15AGTraIO duates All 20
Sandra Gonzalez 2015 Silsbee Grad
Christian
We are proud of your hard work and all your accomplishments and wishing you a bright future.
Photo by Meagain Moore/Silsbee Bee
Maisie Ohler is preparing to join the Marines after graduation. This is a choice she thought she would never make.
Myra Clark 2015 Silsbee Grad Ryan Kirkendalll 2015 Silsbee Grad
Reneau
Not Pictured: D’Lana Wright 2015 Silsbee Grad
2015 Kingwood Kindergarten Grad
Olivia Keith 2015 Buna Grad
Jake Russell 2015 Kirbyville Grad
980 Highway 327 E • Silsbee
Silsbee Animal Clinic “Always Great Food and Great Service”
Dr. Jay Benton, Jodye, Debbie, Kristi & Dutchess
7729 FM 1122
Silsbee Grandma & Grandpa Reneau
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Lumberton High School
THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Persevering in macro-economics Sidney Duckworth was ranked as the top student by the middle of the school year for Lumberton High School. Her GPA was 4.4629. Duckworth has pushed herself to achieve the goals that she had set. “I’ve always been someone who wants to do their best. My dad has always pushed me to be the best that I can be,” she said. “Although my parents have backed off in high school, it’s engrained in me to do my best.” Duckworth played soccer and tennis and was on the varsity team for both early in her high school career, but really decided to focus on academics her senior year. She is the Spanish Club Treasurer and is also a member of the National Honor Society. Because of her focus in academics, Duckworth will be starting her freshman year at college with about 12 hours of college credit. She took several Advanced Placement courses, scoring a four in English, which is accepted at her college of choice.
LIT
inza L. Whitaker, Shanette Leann Whitmore. Bon Wier: Dequita Shanta Jenkins. Bridge City: Michael Keith Baber, Dylan Kayne Segura. Buna: Zakary Blessing, Michael Allen Edwards, Tara Renee’ Rice. China, Texas: Amy Mechelle Schroeder. Devers: Paul Travis Duval IV, Marie Del Rosario Gallegos. Evadale: Matthew Garrett Totten. Groves: John David Chirafis, Aspen Sierra Dean, Timothy Scott Garcia, Uziel Guzman, Gailen Joseph Hood, Nathan Allen Odle, Darrell Wayne Stelly Jr., John Lee Studstill IV, Everett John Sweeney, Jessica Lynn Teller, Chance Ward. Hemphill: Neilbert Mabanta Benito. Houston: Okeidra Shanice Gorrer, Taylor Kyle McBride, Jasmine Monea Phillips, Marissa Marie Roy. Hull: Dakota James Abraham. Jasper: Deshawn Lavell Southwell. Kirbyville: Drew Anthony Fricano, Cody Glynn McInnis, Blaine Leland Rhodes. Kountze: Brittany Lynn Breaux, Paige Elizabeth Edmonds, Ashton D. Jennings,
She also has duel credit courses in two semesters of U.S. History and one semester of macro economics. Duckworth applied at Texas Christian University and was accepted. She plans on majoring in general business, but might change to a more focused area like marketing. For her future, Duckworth wants to own a small business or become the CEO of one. The decision to become a business owner stemmed from the examples that her mom has set before her. Her mom owns the Smoothie King in Beaumont and used to own the one in Lumberton before selling it. She watched her mom put so much work into it. Plus, she likes the thought of making her own hours and doing whatever she likes to the business. Although Duckworth has her priorities straight, she doesn’t plan on getting too caught up in studying. She is planning on joining a sorority. “Sorority life is a major aspect at TCU,” Duckworth said. “I’m excited for the social aspect and life there.”
Jesse Cheyenne Ray, Jordi Joseph Stewart, Colt Allen Woods, Tori Cheyenne Yount. Liberty: Karla E. Lopez. Lumberton: Mikelyn Marie Castillo, Ty Jordan Choate, Colby Michael Delk, Brandon Fooks Fielder, Devon M. Fontenot, Macie Beth Humble, Jesse Marie Kulhanek, Garret Alan Laudig, Alex Dickens Lowe, Chad Allen Morrison, Shawn Palmer Wilson. Mauriceville: Sydney Earl Frazier. Natalia: Kiara Raynique Thomas. Nederland: Aaron Douglas Blevins, Brielle Jane Burkhalter, Nikki N. Davis, Paige Nicole DeMas, Jennifer Danielle Mccandless, Johnathon Thanh Nguyen, Michael Bill Phillips Jr., Brintiny E. Reynolds, Jessica Lynn Setliff. Newton: Meghan Dionne Limbrick. Orange: Ryan James Adams, Brittany Lynn Barber, Ricky Don Borel Jr., Cody Stewart Edgerton, Crystal Yvette Kibodeaux, Blake Edward Mchenry, Terry Layne Sylestine, Serenity Danelle Williams, Danielle Erica Winn. Port Arthur: Miriam L. Camacho, Nancy Yvette Carr, Efrain Ceja Jr., Alexia
Congrats To All
2015 Graduates And Especially Our Employees
SIDNEY DUCKWORTH – LUMBERTON CLASS OF 2015
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com
Page 15
Nicolette Hawthorne 2015 SHS Grad
Hailey Moore 2015 SHS Grad
2600 Nerren Dr, Suite A Hwy 96 Bypass, 1 Mile from Wal-Mart Next To Acadian Ambulance, Silsbee
385-4800 Courtesy Photo
Sidney Duckworth is preparing to enroll at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.
Fae Eberhardt, Destiny Rayshonda Ford, Brandon Joe Gamez, Kerrington J. Johnson, Jessica Kathleen Kilmer, Charles Ryan Luce, Jexie Joel Mungula, Brandon A. Parker, Aubrielle Umekia Thompson, Abrahan Torres, Tuyet-Nhi Thi Tran, Billy Ray Turner, Erica Kay Vaughan. Port Neches: Morgan Lea Champeaux, Jesse Darrel Cozad, Veronia Melissa Deleon, Jacob Aaron Frost, Shayna Nicole Harper, Andrew Rife Kimler, Brandon Joseph Provost, Trevor Lawrence Singleton, Brennah Elizabeth Thomas, David Bruce Willingham, Raegan Edward Wyble, Aaron Karel Yentzen, Dillard James Youngblood. Rose Hill Acres: Jess Perry Anderson. Silsbee: Heather Leighann Chance, Joshua Gene Durant, Brittany Kiana Mendoza, Johnathan Freeman Rodgers, Jessica Lee Ellen Sheppard, Erin Elizabeth Stephens, Tiffany N. Tompkins, Josey Lee Wood. Sour Lake: Garrett Thomas Floyd, Rachael Louise May, Kolbi Lee Payne, Matthew Hunter Stillwell. Vidor: James Wilson Chandler, Melinda Christine Cochran, Nickolas Randall
Don't be afraid of fear. Because it sharpens you, it challenges you, it makes you stronger; and when you run away from fear, you also run away from the opportunity to be your best possible self.
Ed Helms
From Page 14
Dozhier, Troy Matthew Fowler, Tyler David Harris, Greg Matthew Hutchinson, Zarek Christian Kirkland, Cody Ryan Luke-Chandler, Danuel Craig Phillips, Logan Scott Ramirez, John Aubrey Welch, Kathy Irene White. Warren: Chadwick D. Crawford. Winnie: Ponch Hernandez, Jarred Clifton Lezak, Gustavo Adolfo Martinez, Carolina Olvera, Laura Denise Rodriguez. Woodville: Trent Morgan Daniels.
Silsbee Donut Palace James and Sokanthea Suy
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Congratulations
Silsbee kindergarten students wave to family and friends before receiving diplomas from graduating Kirby Elementary school on May 28 at Silsbee High School auditorium.
to the
“If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; If you can dream it, you can become it.”
LIT
Urbina, Carolina Isela Valdez, Julio C. Valdez, Helena Vallier, Tristan Zane Vargas, Ethan Gabriel Warren, Brian Keith Watson,
Congratulations from all the guys at Modica Bros.
Photo by Danny Reneau/Silsbee Bee
Derek Keith Westbrooks, Jeffery Doyle Westbrooks, Alinza L. Whitaker, Shanette Leann Whitmore. Bon Wier: Dequita Shanta Jenkins. Bridge City: Michael Keith Baber, Dylan Kayne Segura. Buna: Zakary Blessing, Michael Allen Edwards, Tara Renee’ Rice. China, Texas: Amy Mechelle Schroeder. Devers: Paul Travis Duval IV, Marie Del Rosario Gallegos. Evadale: Matthew Garrett Totten.
Groves: John David Chirafis, Aspen Sierra Dean, Timothy Scott Garcia, Uziel Guzman, Gailen Joseph Hood, Nathan Allen Odle, Darrell Wayne Stelly Jr., John Lee Studstill IV, Everett John Sweeney, Jessica Lynn Teller, Chance Ward. Hemphill: Neilbert Mabanta Benito. Houston: Okeidra Shanice Gorrer, Taylor Kyle McBride, Jasmine Monea Phillips, Marissa Marie Roy. Hull: Dakota James Abraham. Jasper: Deshawn Lavell
Payton McClelland
I’m so proud of you and all your hard work, you will do great things in life! Kenan Womack
2015 Silsbee High Grad We Love You! Mom, Dad, Asiah, Ryan, PawPaw & Granny!
From Page 15
Southwell. Kirbyville: Drew Anthony Fricano, Cody Glynn McInnis, Blaine Leland Rhodes. Kountze: Brittany Lynn Breaux, Paige Elizabeth Edmonds, Ashton D. Jennings, Jesse Cheyenne Ray, Jordi Joseph Stewart, Colt Allen Woods, Tori Cheyenne Yount. Liberty: Karla E. Lopez. Lumberton: Mikelyn Marie Castillo, Ty Jordan Choate, Colby Michael Delk, Brandon Fooks Fielder, Devon M. Fontenot, Macie Beth Humble, Jesse Marie Kulhanek, Garret Alan Laudig, Alex Dickens Lowe, Chad Allen Morrison, Shawn Palmer Wilson. Mauriceville: Sydney Earl Frazier. Natalia: Kiara Raynique Thomas. Nederland: Aaron Douglas Blevins, Brielle Jane Burkhalter, Nikki N. Davis, Paige Nicole DeMas, Jennifer Danielle Mccandless, Johnathon Thanh Nguyen, Michael Bill Phillips Jr., Brintiny E. Reynolds, Jessica Lynn Setliff. Newton: Meghan Dionne Limbrick. Orange: Ryan James Adams, Brittany Lynn Barber, Ricky Don Borel Jr., Cody Stewart Edgerton, Crystal Yvette Kibodeaux, Blake Edward Mchenry, Terry Layne Sylestine, Serenity Danelle Williams, Danielle Erica Winn. Port Arthur: Miriam L. Camacho, Nancy Yvette Carr, Efrain Ceja Jr., Alexia Fae Eberhardt, Destiny Rayshonda Ford, Brandon Joe Gamez, Kerrington J. Johnson, Jessica Kathleen Kilmer, Charles Ryan Luce, Jexie Joel Mungula, Brandon A. Parker, Aubrielle Umekia Thompson, Abrahan Torres, Tuyet-Nhi Thi Tran, Billy Ray Turner, Erica Kay Vaughan. Port Neches: Morgan Lea Champeaux, Jesse Darrel Cozad, Veronia Melissa Deleon, Jacob Aaron Frost, Shayna Nicole Harper, Andrew Rife Kimler, Brandon Joseph Provost, Trevor Lawrence Singleton, Brennah Elizabeth Thomas, David Bruce Willingham, Raegan Edward Wyble, Aaron Karel Yentzen, Dillard James Youngblood. Rose Hill Acres: Jess Perry Anderson. Silsbee: Heather Leighann Chance, Joshua Gene Durant, Brittany Kiana Mendoza, Johnathan Freeman Rodgers, Jessica Lee Ellen Sheppard, Erin Elizabeth Stephens, Tiffany N. Tompkins, Josey Lee Wood. Sour Lake: Garrett Thomas Floyd, Rachael Louise May, Kolbi Lee Payne, Matthew Hunter Stillwell. Vidor: James Wilson Chandler, Melinda Christine Cochran, Nickolas Randall Dozhier, Troy Matthew Fowler, Tyler David Harris, Greg Matthew Hutchinson, Zarek Christian Kirkland, Cody Ryan Luke-Chandler, Danuel Craig Phillips, Logan Scott Ramirez, John Aubrey Welch, Kathy Irene White. Warren: Chadwick D. Crawford. Winnie: Ponch Hernandez, Jarred Clifton Lezak, Gustavo Adolfo Martinez, Carolina Olvera, Laura Denise Rodriguez. Woodville: Trent Morgan Daniels.
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GRADUATION CLASS OF 2015 EVADALE • KOUNTZE • LUMBERTON Evadale High School
Making a trek to Austin to become a Longhorn JAMIE RICHARDSON EVADALE CLASS OF 2015 VALEDICTORIAN
By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Jamie Richardson earned her way to becoming valedictorian of Evadale and now makes her way to Austin to become a Texas Longhorn. Jamie came to grips of becoming a child psychologist after having to see one as a child. “When I had to see one, and they helped me, I knew that was what I wanted to do,” Richardson said. “It’s both exciting and scary at the same time reaching this point in my life.” Jamie has enrolled at the University of Texas in Austin
and will major in psychology before earning a doctorate in developmental psychology in hopes of becoming a child psychologist. “I’m definitely going to miss high school,” she said. “But I have such a big support group around me. My family is big, and they are all very supportive of my decisions.” She was a member of the National Honor Society for two years and served as president her senior year. She was also a member of the National Art Honor Society for four years, serving as vice president her junior year, and president her senior year.
Extra-curricular activities included volleyball, basketball, track, drill team and UIL one-act play. She played volleyball and basketball all four years, and was selected to the Texas Girls Coaching Association Academic All-State Volleyball team. While on drill team her senior year, she was selected as Drill Team Sweetheart by her peers. During one-act play, she was stage manager for all three years she participated. Away from school, Jamie was active in Central Baptist Church in Evadale and partic-
ipated in Bible Drill for seven years, having reached the state level four times. This year, she received a Three-Year Participant Award for advancing to state three years in a row. She has also been involved in several mission trips and other activities within the church. In the summer of 2014, she had the opportunity to travel to Stratton, CO with her youth group and provide a Vacation Bible School for the children in the small community. She is the daughter of Milton and Angela Richardson.
Photo by Pam Minyard/Evadale High School
Jamie Richardson earned top spot for Evadale High School and will be attending the University of Texas in Austin.
Evadale High School
Class Flower: Fire and Ice Rose Class Song: “See You When I See You” by Jason Aldean Class Motto: “In growing, we have found friendship. In learning, we have shared knowledge. In pride, we have left memories.”
Evadale High School Class of 2015 Graduates
Hunter Abate Charlea Adams Tyler Angeron Amanda Arnold Thomas Bartosh Karley Beard Sierra Bielecki Wesley Boyette Thomas Henderson Boyette Brenden Burford Kourtlyn Christian Dalton Clack Hannah Conner Jordan Connor Danielle Guzman Joseph Hare Trevor Hemphill Dylan Jinks Haley Leger
Megan Linch Keith Lunsford John Marks Tiayali Marks Matthew Meyers Heather Murphy Haleigh Oldbury Lane Peach Jamie Richardson Colby Solly Sydney Stanton Coty Sterling Colby Thompson David Tomas Ryan Totten Thomas Wells Wendy Williams Forrest Wright
“Our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. The human mind is our fundamental resource.” Jack Kennedy
Or is it? For mingled with every paper fiber are the joyful tears of triumph and accomplishment, the sweat of hard work and perserverance, the lasting impressions of friendships and associations. Threads in the fabric of your life. This simple piece of paper carries a lifetime of meaning. It is a book mark in your history and a passport for your future.
A piece of paper? It’s no more than what you make of it. Best of luck to all seniors especially my granddaughter
2015 EVADALE GRAD
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Evadale High School
EVADALE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Salutatorian’s future inspired by “Nana” KOURTLYN CHRISTIAN – EVADALE CLASS OF 2015 – SALUTATORIAN By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Kourtlyn Christian knew the field of work she wanted to do after losing her grandmother this year. Her “Nana” was suffering from an illness and had trouble speaking and swallowing before her death. “That inspired me to want to help people before they die,” Christian said. Kourtlyn is this year’s Evadale High School salutatorian, and enters the next level of school with 18 college
Evadale High School
credit hours under her belt. She will be enrolling at Lamar University and will major in speech and hearing sciences. She will plan on furthering her education in hopes of receiving a master’s degree in speech language pathology. “I’m going to miss sports the most because it is a team thing,” Christian said. She was a member of the volleyball and track teams in Evadale, having been named academic all-state in volleyball and a regional qualifier in track for four years.
Kourtlyn was an A honor roll student at Evadale and maintained a 4.0 in her college course in high school. She has been a member of the National Honor Society for four years and was secretary her senior year. She was also vice president of the Spanish Club and was a member of the National Art Honor Society for four years. Kourtlyn was a finalist in the Audobon Art Competition, and won first place in the Southeast Texas State Fair Art Show and first place in at the
Houston Livestock and Rodeo and Art Show. She currently has artwork on display at the Stark’s Museum in Orange. Her and her family are active members of Central Baptist Church in Evadale where she has competed in Bible Drill for nine years. She is also youth ambassador for the Julie Rogers Gift of Life Program and active in Relay for Life. Kourtlyn is the daughter of Kyle and Keisha Christian.
Entering world of journalism TYLER ANGERON – EVADALE CLASS OF 2015 – THIRD R ANK By Daniel Elizondo editor@silsbeebee.com Tyler Angeron found his niche in life in hopes of utilizing his voice. Though he often thought of one day becoming an actor, he says that reality hit. “I’ve been told that I have a very mature speaking voice,” he said. “I’ve wanted to put that to my advantage, but I really didn’t know how.” Tyler figured out that it was journalism and being on television was his newfound goal. He has enrolled at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville majoring in mass communication specializing in multi-platform journalism. He finished Evadale High as the third ranking student, and was a member of the National Honor Society for three years. Tyler received the Daughters of the American Revolu-
Photo by Pam Minyard/Evadale High School
Kourtlyn Christian found inspiration after the passing of her grandmother, to become a speech pathologist.
Congratulations We are proud of all of our graduates especially
2015 Evadale Grad
2015 Evadale Grad
2015 Evadale Grad
Photo by Pam Minyard/Evadale High School
Tyler Angeron found that he is ready to pursue a career as a television journalist.
tion Good Citizen Award this year, and he is an active member of the youth group at Central Baptist Church in Evadale. He was very active in FFA throughout the course of his high school career, which he says molded him into the person he is today. “My former ag teacher Mr. McDonald was a huge inspiration in my life,” he said. “I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be anywhere near the person I am today without him.” Tyler says his former teacher inspired to become FFA chapter president and the district treasurer. He was also a member of the football team for one year and participated in the one-act play for three years. Tyler is the son of Christopher and Rebecca Angeron.
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Page 19
Especially
Cody Mitchael 2015 Kountze Grad
WILLIFORD’S Dale Williford, Owner
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Gearing towards a biology major JOSIE GUNTER – KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015 – VALEDICTORIAN
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Students in Kountze School District find out what rank they have in the eighth grade before entering high school. Once Josie Gunter found out she was the top student, so she made the decision she was going to keep her rank, mostly because she knew there was money involved. The thought of giving a speech is the only thing that worried her, because, according to her, she isn't good at writing speeches or speaking to crowds. For the valedictorian of Kountze High School, book work has always come easy, most of the time. "I didn't really work for it, it just kind of happened,” she said. "I'm not very good at math and English. Well, I’m good at them, but I don't really like them." Gunter is wanting to go to the University of North Texas. She believes that she is interested in getting a Bachelors in Biology and maybe teach high school. The university gave her a scholarship for about $6,000 a year, which should pay for her dorms. Gunter is thinking about teaching high school be-
a collegiate level. She even considered becoming a veterinarian, but because sometimes the choice is made to put them down, she doesn't want to do that. She just wants to love on them. "I feel like I’m going to go to college and end up getting a degree in something other than what I’m going in for,” she said. In high school, she participated in band and in art. She is also the treasurer in NHS. For college, she doesn’t plan on joining any sororities, but maybe a crafts club or music ensemble. She even mentioned the possibility of joining a political club because she likes politics. "If I really want something, I'll work hard for it,” Gunter said.
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Kountze
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Josie Gunter will be attending the University of North Texas and majoring in biology.
cause her mom is a teacher. “I didn't really know what I was going to do until I started applying for colleges,” Gunter
said. “I chose biology because I like it.” Gunter eventually wants to get a PhD and maybe teach at
Especially those who have worked with us at Kountze Brookshire Bros.
KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015 Rebeka Lynn Andrus Jakob Lane Arsement Dustin Cole Bevilacqua Shauna Nicole Bowers Megan Elizabeth Brottem Ashley Marie Brown Summer Arline Brown Robert Michade Bumstead Datashia Tiara Burrows Austin Michael Carter Brianna Lynnmarie Chance Roxanna Naomi Chanek Patrick Seth Colton Lysabeth Kay Comer Connie Ann Cormier Katherine Elaine Cunningham Blake Allan David Tyler Ely Davis
Congratulations To All Area Graduates
Trey Justice Deaton Zena Victoria Doiron Zoe Alexandria Doiron Kevin Allen Dominy Jesecca Lea Drake Celeste Nichole Durmon Kyle Martin Franklin Stephen Wayne Fregia, Jr. Michael Anthony Greer Tanner Cole Guillory Josie Pink Gunter George Matthew Guy T’Mia Michelle Hadnot Justin Deantrea Harper Kevin Alexander James Zyria Tatianna Jubert Zoe Bliss Keel Franchelle Carlotta Lafayette Hunter Leon Lejeune
Sarah Emily Lewis Ryder Lane Lognion Brittany Nicole Long Akashia Symone Lowe Tyler Wade Malone Austin Warner Marshall Wyatt David Martin Trevor Patrick Doyle McLendon Joshua Burch McNeely Cody Ray Merchant Cody Alyn Mitchael Deonta Deja Morgan Brandon Christopher Myers Erika Renee Nowlin Bailey Joada Overstreet Cheyenne Spring Parish Katie Janice Peoples Denae Leann Pitman
2015 Warren Grad
2015 Kountze Grad
2015 Kountze Grad
See KHS on PG. 20,
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Thomas
2015 Silsbee Grad
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Congratulations 2015 Graduates
We wish you the best of luck on the road ahead. May good health and good fortune follow you every step of the way!
2015 Kountze Grad
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Kountze High School
An aspiring law degree in the midst BRITTANY LONG – KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015 – SALUTATORIAN
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
David Sheffield Hardin County District Attorney & Staff
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Brittany Long is graduating as the Salutatorian for the Class of 2015 at Kountze High School. Both of her parents are teachers, so she was always encouraged to make good grades and try her hardest in school. The work has finally paid off. Long has been in GT classes since she went to Hardin, but even then, she has always tried to keep her grades up. She would feel horrible if she made a bad grade, even a "B." She knew that if she really wanted to succeed, she would have to make good grades to get into college. "I think I have made one 'B' on a report card, and I think that’s because I was absent,” Lond said. "I don’t feel like I'm doing my best unless I'm making good grades." This salutatorian has taken the SAT three times, and it has shown in her accomplishments. The first time Long took the SAT was in the seventh grade. Some of the students in the GT class took the test just to see what areas they needed to improve in.
Photo by Meagan Moore/Silsbee Bee
Brittany Long earned second rank as salutatorian of Kountze, and will attend McNeese State University.
She took the test again her sophomore year and for the final time her senior year. Long scored around a 1900, a
Kountze High School
higher average than most students. Since Long is in the top of her class and scored high on
the SAT, she was able to get into the honors program at McNeese. The honors program is similar to an academic scholarship, most everything will be paid for by the school for her to attend there, even her outof-state fees have been waived. However, her journey hasn't been an easy one. Math has been a difficult subject. She has had to work for the good grades in her math classes, and even in some aspects of science, like chemistry. Long's goal for the future is to get into law school. In fact, her plans include going to law school at Southern Methodist in Dallas. She had never even heard of the school until she was sent fliers in the mail. Her parents took her up there for a visit, and she fell in love. "Dallas is also a good area for lawyers,” she said. "The law industry is booming. I'd be able to get a job there." Long still has quite a journey ahead of her. She will have to work hard to earn the grades and the GPA to get into law school, but with her dedication the process shouldn't be too tedious.
Overcoming the loss of a brother ARLYSSA WILLIAMS KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015
Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com
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Two days after her birthday on Jan. 3, 2014, Arlyssa Williams’ brother died in a car wreck. However, she has done her best to overcome her grief and graduate high school. It was really hard to cope because Arlyssa and her brother had been really close, being only 18 months
apart. At the beginning of last year, William’s and her brother, Kevin Edwards, were celebrating her birthday and New Year’s. Two days later, she received a phone call about her brother being in a car accident. They stayed on the sight until authorities told her family that Edwards was being transported to a hospital. “All we could do was just pray and hope for the best,” Williams stated. See WILLIAMS on PG. 21`
Photo by Meagan Moore/Silsbee Bee
KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015
Arlyssa Williams struggles with the loss of her brother, but finds peace through school.
Continued from page19
Precious Breann Powell Staci Nicole Richardson Tyrin Ra’mon Rogers Kade Archer Shawver Colton Bradley Smith Dylan Anthony Smith Tori Sheridan Smith Josie Hope Spatola Casey Leann Toushe Jason Fredrick Villalobos Shelby Nicole Welch Kyle Austin Whisenhant Alyssa Breyn Whittle Arlyssa Ilene Williams Kayla Ann Williams Baylee Ann Woods Chad Alan Young
Shari Powell
Gehrig Brown
Charlene Cravey
Tammy Wilkerson
Congratulations All Area 2015 Seniors
Rosie Thulin
Mary Stapleton
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Best Wishes For A Long & Successful Future
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Kountze High School
Page 21
The flute and music soothe the soul CONNIE CORMIER – KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Connie Cormier, a senior at Kountze, has made music one of the most important aspects of her life. She has been able to play the piano since a young age. Due to not wanting to take P.E., Cormier joined band in sixth grade and was introduced to the flute. She got into band thinking that she was just going to do it for a little while, then she fell in love with music and is actually pursuing a career in music. While in high school, Cormier has won several titles and awards for band. She is a three year all-stater, and first chair for flute in the state of Texas for this year for ATSSB. Cormeir has also made area all four years of high school, first division solo and ensemble all four years, and TMEA Band all four years and orchestra two years of that. There is plenty more accomplishments that she has
Photo by Meagan Moore/Silsbee Bee
Connie Cormier is pursuing a degree in music after she fell in love with the flute in sixth grade.
made, but those are only the main ones.
Kountze High School
Mr. Fife and Mr. Long have been her band directors since
sixth grade, and if it wasn't for them she wouldn't be in the position she is now with her gift of music. They have taught her how to be a leader and to work as a team. They have encouraged her and never let her do anything less than her absolute best. They even taught her how to be on time, even if it was only five minutes late. “Rather than just teaching me notes and rhythms, they taught me how to be a good person and life lessons along the way,” Cormier said. The Kountze band directors are the ones who helped her decide to make a career out of music. They have made such an impact in her life that she now wants to make an impact in others. She plans to graduate from Lamar with a doctorate some day in music education, but she has decided to start off as a band director and then work her way up as a flute professor at the collegiate level.
DEONTRA MORGAN – KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015
WILLIAMS
Williams felt like she had to be strong for everyone else, including her mother. She said that she didn’t feel like anyone truly understood what she went through. Her family was grieving, and even her friends were saddened by his death No one really stopped to ask her if she was okay. Upon returning to school, Williams sat down in her physics class, a course she had been taking with her brother. She start feeling suffocated because of his missing presence and
2015 Warren Grad
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Sports minded and ready for college By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Deontra Morgan’s life has consisted of sports since he was a child. This year alone, he has achieved many recognitions and awards for his participation in athletics for Kountze High School. To participate in any extracurricular activities for UIL programs, students must maintain passing grades, which Morgan did by staying on the AB Honor Roll. Morgan’s hobbies include playing football with friends in his spare time and working out. Even though he has lived in Kountze his entire life, he is ready to go out into the world and make a name for himself.
Best Wishes To A Special Graduate
He was voted as the best overall student for the class favorites. This year alone, he went far in each of the three sports he participated. In football, Morgan played the positions of running back and strong safety. In the first playoff game, he rushed over 200 yards. He played as a post in basketball and went to state with the team. However, his best sport by far was track and field. Morgan ran the three relays, the 4x100, 4x200, and 4x400. He was the third leg in the race. The boy’s track team at Kountze won first place at district and then headed off for See MORGAN on PG. 22
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Deontra Morgan has found success in athletics and taken his leadership roles to the college ranks at SFA.
Page 20 asked to leave the room. After that episode, she didn’t return to school for a few days. “For me to go to school without my brother by my side was hard,” she said. A week later, Williams returned to school knowing that she couldn’t let her grades suffer. Instead, she threw herself into her school work to help take her mind off of his death. She would still go home after school, enter her room, and just sit and cry. As the days went by, she started feeling a little better. She
began talking about it with her family and friends. Now, when sad moments begin to overcome her, she reminds herself of all the good memories they had together, and that he is in Heaven having a blast. “No matter how hard I wanted to just stay in my room all the time, I felt like he gave me strength and courage to work harder and made me want to be a better person,” Williams said. Williams got accepted into Stephen F. Austin University, but hasn’t made up her mind if she wants to go to there or Lamar.
Congratulations 2015 Graduates We wish you success and the best of luck in all your future endeavors
Megan Brottem
Josie Gunter
2015 Kountze Grad
2015 Kountze Grad
Dusty Bevilacqua 2015 Kountze Grad
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2015 Kountze Grad
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Her heart is set on SFA but her mind is on Lamar. Going to SFA would mean leaving her family behind. However, Williams knows that her brother would only want what is best for her.
Rebecca Walton County Attorney
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Congratulations Seniors We Are Proud of You!!
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837 N. Main, Suite 102
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We’re proud of you, graduates
May you continue to learn, grow and reach new heights of success
Congratulations to the Class of 2015 We Are Especially Proud of You
2015 LHS Grad
THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Lumberton High School
By the grace of God in success HAILEY FERGUSON LUMBERTON CLASS OF 2015
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Hailey Ferguson was born and raised in Lumberton. She leads a very active life, including sports, clubs, and socializing. The people closest to her are good at setting examples and make an impact in her life, especially God. “God has played a huge role in my life,” Ferguson said. Ferguson played a couple of sports in high school, including volleyball and softball. She was also a member of the National Honor Society. She was president of the Junior Ambassadors, where they do several service projects. Juniors and seniors meet up once a month to learn about jobs and techniques to prepare students for life after school. One of the most important organizations she was involved in was Young Life. In Young Life, Ferguson was a student leader. She was required to go to meetings outside of the normal ones.
There, everybody interacts and has discussions on God and the Bible. As a people person she is always wanting to help people and she has always wanted to go into the medical field. One day, a friend of her mother’s was talking about radiation therapy and things suddenly clicked into place. Ferguson has every intention of going to Texas State to major in radiation therapy. Ferguson’s best friend applied to the same college. Together, they are going to try to become roommates. Their friendship stems back to the womb. Both were born on the same day, and their mothers had been friends in high school. Ferguson has no plans on joining any particular clubs or sorority, but she has decided that she might play intermural sports to help her stay active. As far as what she plans on doing after college, she will leave things up to wherever the wind takes her. “I’m not tied to here, and I’m not against leaving, but at the same time, it would be nice to come back here because it’s where my family is at,” she said.
Kountze High School
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By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Jake Arsement isn’t your average student at Kountze High School. This particular senior was voted by his graduating class as most likely to cure cancer. Arsement has made “A”s all year and plans on attending Texas State University for biology/pre-med. "I kind of stepped it up this year,” He said. “Thinking about college has made me step it up." Arsement participates in the work program, where he attends school half of a day then proceeds to go to work at Rock'n’A Café in Beaumont. There he helps cater weddings, retirement parties, graduation parties, churches, etc. According to Arsement, they even cater to Exxon and Valero a lot. Arsement played baseball throughout high school except his senior year. His reasoning was that he wasn't passionate for baseball like he is for science. He reads science books for
regionals. While at regionals, the 4x100 relay team was .04 seconds away from going to state. They placed fourth in the 4x200. At the last minute, the coach changed the positions, and told Morgan that he was going to run last leg because he was the strongest at finishing. Morgan stated that he ran his best time that day. Morgan has been accepted into Stephen F. Austin State
JAKE ARSEMENT – KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015
Photo by Meagan Moore/Silsbee Bee
Jake Arsement stepped up his work ethic his senior year and pursuing a major in biology and pre-med at Texas State University.
fun, and would rather read things like that rather than fiction novels. Probably the hardest thing
University. Although it is his desire to move away from Kountze, he will miss his friends and family. However, he Morgan won’t be completely alone. His cousin, graduating from Evadale this year, is also planning on going to SFA. The two hope to become roommates. “Never say you can’t succeed. Always follow your dreams,” Morgan said.
This summer, the family is going back to visit friends and family in Washington, the state Arsement was born in. Out of his family, Arsement is closest to his younger brother. This year, his younger brother is a sophomore in high school with Jake. Arsement’s younger brother is also on the robotics team and sometimes asks for Jake’s help. "Although my parents have given me a lot of independence since it’s my senior year, it’s still going to be a big change being away from them,” Arsement said. However, one thing he is looking forward to while away at college is seeing new faces and meeting new people. Arsement claims he is a social butterfly and socializing keeps him motivated. Arsement loves to learn new things and meet new people. "It inspires me in a kind of subconscious way,” he said. Even though Arsement saves time for socializing he still strives to maintain good grades. This is shown from his grades at school and his ranking of the number ten position. His plans include maintaining good grades throughout college as well.
Congratulations 2015 Area Graduates
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From Page 21
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Hailey Ferguson is interested in radiation therapy and planning on attending Texas State University in San Marcos to pursue her degree.
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MORGAN
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Page 23
Finding a niche in fishing JACOB TALLEY – LUMBERTON – CLASS OF 2015
By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Unlike the majority of his classmates, Jacob Talley was not born and raised in Lumberton. In fact, his place of birth isn’t even in Texas. Talley was born in Quitman, Miss. His family moved approximately three times in three different states before settling in Lumberton. Due to his step-dad’s job, Talley’s family moved to Lake Charles, LA and lived there for five years. Afterwards, they packed up and moved to Edmond, OK, lived there for three years, then finally to Lumberton. They have lived in the area for eight years, the longest the family has settled down anywhere. Overall, Lumberton is the best place he has lived. It’s there where he had the most friends. Talley also likes the fact that, as a student, you can get to know everyone in the same graduating class. Although, living in Oklahoma came a close second to the best place to live, as there were plenty of theme parks near his home.
Most likely to be in a band (boy): Kevin James Most likely to be in a band (girl): Connie Cormier Most likely to be in Reality TV (boy): Dylan Smith Most likely to be in Reality TV (girl): Sarah Lewis Most likely to succeed (boy): Jake Arsement Most likely to succeed (girl): Brittany Long Most likely to Go Pro (boy): Austin Marshall Most likely to Go Pro (girl): Akashia Lowe Most likely to become a KHS teacher (boy): Tyler Malone Most likely to become a KHS teacher (girl): Shauna Bowers Most likely to cure cancer (boy): Jake Arsement Most likely to cure cancer (girl): Josie Gunter Most likely to become president (boy): Blake David Most likely to become president (girl): Brittany Long Most likely to become a millionaire (boy): George Guy Most likely to become a millionaire (girl): Jesecca Drake
Photo Courtesy
Jacob Talley became an avid fisherman for Lumberton High School, and now enters a new phase of his life, enrolling at LIT.
Talley played for the varsity football team his sophomore
year, but he soon decided that hunting and fishing were more
KOUNTZE CLASS OF 2015 – FAVORITES
Most likely to win the lottery but lose the ticket (boy): Josh McNeely Most likely to win the lottery but lose the ticket (girl): Baylee Woods Most likely to be IDʼd at 30 (boy): Brandon Myers Most likely to be IDʼd at 30 (girl): Cheynne Parrish Most likely to sleep through a hurricane (boy): Cody Mitchael Most likely to sleep through a hurricane (girl): Staci Richardson Most likely to host a talk show (boy): Seth Colton Most likely to host a talk show (girl): Tori Smith Most likely to be seen out of class (boy): Josh McNeely Most likely to be seen out of class (girl): TʼMia Hadnot Most likely to travel the world (boy): Trevor McLendon Most likely to travel the world (girl): Kennedi Mathews Most likely to crash a wedding (boy): Seth Colton Most likely to crash a wedding (girl): Josie Spatola Most likely to live with their parents (boy): Blake David
Most likely to live with their parents (girl): Megan Brottem Mr. KHS: Michael Greer Ms. KHS: Franchelle Lafayette Best Smile (boy): Wyatt Martin Best Smile (girl): Megan Brottem Most Athletic (boy): Justin Harper Most Athletic (girl): Precious Powell Best All Around (boy): Deontra Morgan Best All Around (girl): TʼMia Hadnot Worst Senioritis (boy): Jason Villalobos Worst Senioritis (girl): Breyn Whittle Most Attractive (boy): Deontra Morgan Most Attractive (girl): Macy Matthews Most Friendly (boy): Dylan Smith Most Friendly (girl): Zoe Doiron Best dressed (boy): Chad Young Best dressed (girl): Arlyssa Williams Most Accident Prone (boy): Michade Bumstead Most Accident Prone (girl): Katherine Cunningham Most Musical (boy): Kade Shawver Most Musical (girl): Jesecca Drake
his style. The Lumberton High School Fishing Club was first started only three years ago, but this was Talley’s first year to join, and, according to him, he has had a blast. The team placed 22nd in the association out of about 375 schools. At one of the tournaments, they placed ninth, and in a couple of the others they were in the top 10 percent. Tournaments occurred once a month, usually on Saturdays. Talley also like to go fishing with his girlfriend. His interests even overflow into his work life. Last year in August, Talley started working at the 1-in100 Gun Club in Lumberton. He hopes to keep working there as he attends L.I.T. in Beaumont. He hopes to earn a process operating degree, but he keeps changing his mind. Despite having moved around a lot growing up, Talley has no plans to up-root himself from this area. “With the degree I will have, it gets me up for the best job opportunities, and I just like the area in general,” Talley said.
Most Artistic (boy): Austin Carter Most Artistic (girl): Josie Gunter Biggest Overachiever (boy): Kevin James Biggest Overachiever (girl): Tori Smith Most changed since 7th grade (boy): Ryder Lognion Most changed since 7th grade (girl): Sarah Lewis Worst Driver (boy): Tyler Malone Worst Driver (girl): Denae Pitman Biggest Bromance (boy): Austin Marshall & Dusty Bevilacqua Most Inseparable Friends (girl): Jesecca Drake & Zoe Keel
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THE SILSBEE BEE • GRADUATION 2015
Lumberton High School
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Garnering the top of the class for success By Meagan Moore reporter@silsbeebee.com Jessica Eberling has worked hard to stay at the top. Freshman year of high school she was tied with Sidney Duckworth for the number one spot in their class.
JESSICA EBERLING – LUMBERTON – CLASS OF 2015
However, Lumberton High School is very competitive, and as of the beginning of her senior year, she was ranked number three. “Whenever you work really hard, it makes you want to work harder because you’ve put in so much work already,”
Eberling said. She realized that even though her classmates were competitive, she wanted to keep up her grades and graduate in the top five. Eberling is attending Texas A&M University in the fall with plans to major in mechanical engineering. The reason she chose that particular major is because she loves math and science. Engineering has plenty of physics and calculus. She chose the mechanical aspect because it helps create more efficient ways of making things, and she really wants to be a part of that. While in high school, Eberling was in student council, NHS, and a seven year choir member as well as the treasurer. The club that she put her heart into, though, was the Key Club, becoming the edi-
The Silsbee Bee Fan Page
tor her senior year. The Key Club is a service organization where the students do service projects for the community. Their most recent service project was a beach clean-up. In fact, Eberling plans on joining Circle K, the college equivalent of the Key Club. Last year, Eberling received the Who’s Who All American Scholar at Large and Excellence in Advanced Spanish IV. She knows enough Spanish from taking high school classes that she can understand to an extent and reply. Eberling has said that if she could, she would like to learn a little more about Spanish, but right now, she just wants to focus on her freshman year and see how it goes. She might even decide to study more and learn it on her own.
“You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. You can't get there by bus, only by hard work and risk and by not quite knowing what you're doing, but what you'll discover will be wonderful. What you'll discover will be yourself.”
Alan Alda
Photo courtesy
Jessica Eberling is taking her top honors to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering at Texas A&M University.
Congratulations Lumberton Seniors
The Power to Succeed is in Your Hands
www.countysigns.net
2091 FM 418
Kountze
Back Row - Arlayna Armfield, Carter Howard, Layla Holmes, Mrs. Michelle Conner, Garrett Conner, Addy Bearden, Austin Cunningham. Front Row - Easton Gray, Terry Thomas, Mandy Ard, Brayden Boyd, Levi Ferguson
Back Row - Hallie Jasken, Landry Smith, Ms. Catina Marshall, Corey Pickney, Lexi Hopkins Front Row - Leyton Boucher, Jason Okun, Alexis Kroemeke, Logan McGaughey, Brayden Allen. Not Pictured: Amelya Leblanc
Back Row : Dakota Chatelain, Brady Jones, Mrs. Marsha Moore, Abigail Balsamo, Tucker Burns Front Row: Jase Smith, Ava Fortenberry, Conner Gallowary
Younger Years, Inc Child Care Learning Centers Accepting Children Newborn to 12 Years of Age 100% committed in the services of manufacturing and developing technical products.
615 Creekmore
719 South Main
Owners: Kathy & Michael Merritt/Diane Gore
9807 Hwy 92 N • Silsbee • 409-386-0364