South East Texas Events

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june 2015

S o u t h e a s t

plus

Complete Summer Kid Camp Guide High School Graduates Pay Tribute to Dad

T e x a s

E v e n t s

Something for Singles, Cyclists & Sea Seekers Summer in the City: Jazz, Movies, Concerts & More

june 2015 10-12

features A Season of Entertainment at the Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts Area Top-Ranking Kids Pay Tribute to Dad No Summer Boredom: Kid Camp Guide

6-8

380 Main Street Beaumont, Texas 77701 409.201.9934 SoutheastTexasEvents.com

10-12 Publisher Mark Adkins

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Performing Arts Visual Arts Charity Singles Entertainment Kids Corner Festivals Sports & Recreation Health, Wellness & Education Free Fun Business & Networking Event Listings

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d e pa rtm e n t s Infographic On this Date in Southeast Texas Word of the Month Brew Review Pin-Tested Social Seen Go Out Hobby Time Classified Pick of the Month SoutheastTexas.com Stats Sneak Peek Cartoon Corner Final Photo

a publication of the Beaumont Enterprise

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Editor-In-Chief Shelly Vitanza Editor Beth Gallaspy Creative Director Tina Breland Art director Therése Shearer Web Content Managers Kathleen Gantner Geneva Quitugua Account executive Renee Cox circulation Don Shellenberger photographer Jim Debes

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from the cover One venue in Southeast Texas delivers musicals, comedies, classic Broadway and contemporary Broadway, dance troupes and band troupes, celebrities and kids theater, and it has for 30 years. The Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts announces a wide variety of entertainment for its 2015-2016 season. Get the entire season lineup plus information about how to become a ticket holder, pages 6-8.

Subscribe to the EventsBook If you would prefer to receive your copies of the EventsBook in the mail for one year, please send $19.95 to: Beaumont Enterprise, 380 Main Street, Beaumont, TX 77701 Include your mailing address.

We list all events for Free. We are the one calendar for Southeast Texas.

For the latest and most exciting events, visit us at

www.SoutheastTexasEvents.com.

contributing writers Brandon East Beth Gallaspy Courtney Mleczewski Chrissie Mouton Melissa Tilley Emily Wheeler Advertising Information: For advertising, please contact Renee Cox at 409.781.3603 or rcox@southeasttexas.com.

To list your event on Southeasttexas.com: Visit Southeasttexas.com, click events. Under the Calendar tab, click “Submit an Event,” or email us at events@southeasttexas.com.

Copyright 2015, Beaumont Enterprise. All rights reserved. All contents copyright 2015 Beaumont Enterprise, The Events Books. All rights reserved.

EventsBook is a monthly publication. Events shown are from SoutheastTexasEvents.com. Priority listing is given to SoutheastTexasEvents.com’s member organizations. Other events are listed as space allows. For additional information on the events listed in the EventsBook and other events not listed, visit SoutheastTexasEvents.com.

Beaumont Enterprise is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes that may have occurred since the publishing of this issue. Every effort has been made to ensure accurate information at the time of publication, however, this cannot be guaranteed. Beaumont Enterprise recommends visiting SoutheastTexas.com or contacting the represented companies to determine availability of service and to confirm date, time, location and other related event information. All submissions of editorial, photography, advertising and event information are accepted only without risk to the publisher for loss or damage.

june 2015

Editor's Letter

Operation Inspiration Squash

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This is the first in a two-part series detailing the extreme obstacles I’ve overcome to continue to produce the EventsBook in 2015.

ou think you know someone if you live with him/her?

That’s what I always thought until my husband and I began sharing a home office. The new working arrangement has not only challenged my productivity but shed new light on that man of mine.

After living with my Mr. Wonderful, Carl Vitanza, for more than 12 years, (And, I do mean “wonderful.” Truly, I won the husband lottery. Vitanza turns his clothes right side out before putting them in the laundry, even socks; he always offers to eat the oldest leftovers first and periodically he surprises me with a yellow Gerber daisy symbolizing our friendship and a red rose representing our love; he loves to dance and sings to me often, and that’s just for starters.) he decided to change jobs taking a sales position that allotted him a home office, my home office. So in late January, my florally feminine, tastefully decorated, sanctuary of thought and creativity was invaded and is now occupied.

Next to my turquoise mermaid bookends sits a “Rocky Mountain Big Horn” statuette, and where my vibrant “Birds of Paradise” watercolor hung, now resides a hideous brown-on-brown print of two whitetail deer running through the woods. Next to my lifetime collection of eclectic and artistic crosses above my favorite antique chair, a framed map of what? Who can see or care. And the lovely jewel-toned antique chair had to be removed to make space for two printers, plastic filing bins and stacks of technical three-ring binders.

This aggressive offensive “Operation Inspiration Squash,” – destroying my décor and halving my personal space – was followed by outrageous personal habits that required strict intra-office procedures.

Most despicable – Vitanza wakes up happy and enthusiastic, a fact I knew, because we’re both early risers, but I had never witnessed the extent of his predawn energy. He is ready for anything from a conference call on his speaker phone with four other people to Eric Johnson guitar music on the loudest setting. He embodies the word “loud.”

He types loud, talks loud; he even chews loud.

One morning early on into our office cohabitation, before coffee…before 6 a.m., he had turned every light on in the house and was listening to some sporting event. From my bedroom I could hear cheering fans and a sports announcer but couldn’t quite make out the event nor fathom what game was being played before the sun rose. Was he live streaming something halfway around the world?

As I walked the hallway from the bedroom to the kitchen turning all lights off in my path, I passed the office and glimpsed him working in his underwear with the front window blind open for all the world to see. After a few sips of my joe standing in my now dimly lit kitchen, which is the way a kitchen/house/office should be until at least 8 a.m., I decided to make my way back to the sound of the roaring fans and inquire as sweetly as possible: WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE YOU LISTENING TO SO GOSH DARN EARLY IN THE MORNING? His excited, animated answer… “Babe, this is a great game…in 1990 the Houston Cougars beat Texas A&M 36 to 31!” I just stared, letting his words sink in. Was he saying he was listening to an old football game, a football game played 25 years ago?

I (an Aggie) continued to look at him (a Cougar) dumbfounded, which he interpreted as interest and began rattling off details of the plays and the players.

There was now a real-time Cougs vs. Ags battle. Having given up my space and co-mingling my mermaids with his mountain goats, I had to stop any further threat to my identity, sanity. I offered the rules of a continued working, and marriage, relationship: low lighting and no outside noise – especially rock, hillbilly funk or sporting events – before 8:30 a.m.; as quiet as possible at all times; a copy of his weekly calendar so as to optimize my productivity while he’s away and avoid simultaneous conference calls, no deeply engaging conversations before one cup of coffee and absolutely closed blinds while working half nude.

Going forward, I resolved to focus on the positive. Isn’t that what you do when you learn that loved ones’ mannerisms, quirks and issues are not compatible with your own?

Vitanza has lots of positive qualities, aforementioned plus many more, and since it’s the month we celebrate fathers I want to acknowledge his sacrifice and the sacrifice of so many dads and step dads, like my husband, who work hard, love their children’s mother and give of their time and attention when they’d rather be hunting, fishing, golfing or listening to quarter-of-a-century old football games, etc. We celebrate dads and their impact on pages 10-12.

Acknowledge dad this month and the fact that hurricane season is upon us. We’ve got some great graphics, stats and advice for preparing in our infographic, pages 18 and 19. We also give details about many events to get you active – Spindletop Spin, the Twilight Run, Sea Rim Striders Summer Run Series and the MOJO Challenge. In addition, you’ll find our comprehensive kid camp guide and all the visual and performing arts and entertainment you can pack into a summer including a very special interactive kiddo exhibit at the Texas Energy Museum.

Happy Father’s Day!

P.S. Little did I know this office adjustment was the first of two for me in 2015. The second, a welcomed change, was nearly thwarted by my inability to…well, let’s just say there were some bio blockers to my career. Read about overcoming a very personal physical anxiety in the July EventsBook.

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By Shelly Vitanza

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ix a little Vince Gill, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Duke Wellington, Woody Allen, Mel Brooks and Travis Wall with characters Tony Manero, Annie and Max Bialystock, and you’ve got a good start on the lineup of the Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts 2015-2016 season.

“It’s very diverse,” said Lynae Sanford, marketing director for the Lutcher Theater, one of four Stark Cultural Venues. “We have classic Broadway and new Broadway. We’ve got some star power, and we’ve got musicals and dance, humor, the Symphony of Southeast Texas for something new, a fantastic children’s series, and we’ve got three matinees this year, too.”

Kicking off the season Oct. 3 for two performances is the Biblical saga of Joseph, his 11 brothers and the coat of many colors in the Tony Award-winning, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber production “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor

Dreamcoat.” The heart-wrenching musical parable is a story of old melded with different genres of music and a timeless message, making for an irresistible family production.

“Joseph” is one of three classics in the Lutcher season. “Ragtime, The Musical” and “Annie” are also included in the seven-month schedule. “Ragtime,” a 13-time Tony Award-nominated musical and Tony Award winner for both best book and best musical score, is one of two December performances, scheduled Dec. 12, for one evening show.

The big cast and orchestra production is a celebration of life, combined with history and family struggles, examining turn-of-the-century subjects like racism, immigration and the role of women through the lives of three New Yorkers - an upperclass wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a daring Harlem musician.

While “Ragtime” is serious and thought-provoking, the third classic Lutcher performance “Annie” is light-hearted entertainment, a sweet story that theater-goers may find themselves singing along to because everyone loves the familiar musical score, including “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You” and “Tomorrow.” “Annie” is a great way to

SoutheastTexasEvents.com

Lutcher

Incredible Kids Events

The BFG (Big Friendly Giant) Tuesday, Oct. 6, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Dallas Children’s Theater

In the much beloved tradition of Roald Dahl (“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”), we join two misfits on an unforgettable odyssey. The job of this larger-thanlife vegetarian is to blow magical dreams into children’s bedrooms. For a young orphan “human bean,” however, the sight of the giant is too much, and she fears for her life when he takes her away to an enchanted land. The harmless, cheeky B.F.G. ultimately shows that heroes can come in all sizes.

Grades: 2-4; Curriculum Connections: language arts, math, performing and visual arts

Caps for Sale, The Musical start off 2016, and “leapin’ lizards” there are two performances on Jan. 23, so kids of all ages have a chance to see this favored classic.

“Each year as I search for shows to present on the Lutcher Theater Series, I review the definition of what a presenter should do when picking a season.

Several years ago the Association for Performing Arts Presenters created this definition: ‘Presenters have a strong understanding of, and experience with, a wide variety of art forms, artists and cultural contexts. Presenters function as knowledgeable curators of the arts and artists on their stages. They also take the initiative in effectively and appropriately marketing arts and their work, making the community an integral part of what they do, educating new audiences and creating a welcome atmosphere for them, building long-term relationships with artists, articulating their organization’s purposes and responsibly managing resources, staff and facilities,’” said Jim Clark, Lutcher’s managing director. “Finding and knowing about a wide variety of performing arts events that complement each other is one of the hardest elements of programming. Finding shows that fit in the right place, at the right time and for the right audience means juggling a multitude of many possible shows and aligning them in just the right place for the season to work.”

Variety is the thread of the Lutcher season combining the time-honored with new Broadway including two productions that are stories about making Broadway productions.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Adventure Theatre

Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of this beloved classic children’s book, with a fantastic new Broadway-style musical based on the illustrations by author, Esphyr Slobodkina. "Caps! Caps for sale! Fifty cents a cap!" The cap peddler, Pezzo, wears a huge stack of caps, balanced carefully on top of his head. Brown caps, blue caps, gray caps and red caps. When no one buys a cap, he takes a nap under a shady tree. But, when he wakes up, the caps are gone! Where could his caps have disappeared to? Was it bears, pirates, 1,000 thieves or a band of merry mischievous monkeys? How will he ever get them back?

Grades: K-3; Curriculum Connections: English, language arts, theater arts, math

Spot

Monday, Nov. 9, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Theater Terra

Together with Spot, students and their parents will have a new adventure in the theater. Spot will take the audience to the farm of his father, Sam, where all the animals are lost. Spot and his friend Helen are going to need the help of the audience to find all the animals and bring them back to the farm. Can everybody recognize the sounds of the animals and help Spot and Helen to find them?

Grades: PreK-2; Curriculum Connections: literature, theater arts, relationships, responsibility

Room on the Broom

Thursday, Nov. 19, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Tall Stories of London

The witch and her cat are flying happily on their broomstick – until a stormy wind blows away the witch's hat, bow and wand. A helpful dog, bird and frog find the witch's lost things, and they all hop on the broom for a ride. But this broomstick's not meant for five and – CRACK – the broom snaps in two! When a hungry dragon appears, who will save the poor witch? And will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? In this musical based on the book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler, prepare for songs, laughs and scary fun from the company that brought you “The Gruffalo and The Snail and The Whale.”

Grades: PreK-3; Curriculum Connections: language arts/literature, science, fine arts, community values

Groups of 10 or more attending kid shows can purchase tickets for $5 each. Individual adults are $10 and all students are $5.

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A Very Electric Christmas

Wednesday, Dec. 16, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Lightwire Theater

Lightwire Theater returns with their signature brand of dazzling visuals, poignant storytelling and music with the story of a young bird named Max and his family as they head south for the winter. When Max gets blown off course during a snowstorm and tries to make his way home, his adventure begins. Featuring Nutcracker soldiers, caroling worms, dancing poinsettias, mischievous mice and an evil Rat King, this magical tale brings a whole new meaning to coming “home for the holidays.”

Grades: All; Curriculum Connections: language arts, science, theater

Elephant and Piggie’s “We are in a Play!”

Thursday, Feb. 4, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Kennedy Center Theater for Young Audiences on Tour

Elephant Gerald is an elephant: lumbering, formally attired, prone to melancholy. Piggie is (what else!) a piggie: perky, smiley, full of fun.

Total opposites? No way! In Mo Willems' beloved, awardwinning, best-selling children's books, Elephant Gerald and Piggie are best friends! And in “We Are in a Play!,” a brand-new vaudevillian romp of a musical, Elephant Gerald and Piggie sing and dance their way through plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense, facing fundamental questions like, what do you wear to a fancy pool costume party?

Grades: PreK-2; Curriculum Connections: pre-literacy, speaking, listening, creativity, imagination

Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny Wednesday, March 2, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia

Adapted from Margaret Wise Brown's 60-year-old classic, “Goodnight Moon” is a celebration of familiar nighttime rituals, while “The Runaway Bunny” offers a pretend tale of leaving home that evokes reassuring responses from his loving mum. Both feature the endearing animal puppets, stunning scenic effects and evocative music that have earned international recognition for Mermaid Theatre.

Grades: PreK-2; Curriculum Connections: literature, family security, imagination, storytelling, drawing and puppetry

Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat Wednesday, April 14, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Childsplay

From the moment his tall, red-and-white-striped hat appears at their door, Sally and her brother know that the Cat in the Hat is the most mischievous cat they will ever meet. Suddenly the rainy afternoon is transformed by the Cat and his antics. Will their house ever be the same? Can the kids clean up before mom comes home?

With some tricks (and a fish) and Thing Two and Thing One, with the Cat in the Hat, the fun’s never done!

Grades: PreK-4; Curriculum Connections: six pillars of character, rhyming, physical comedy, imagination, play, literacy

Moon Mouse A Spacey Odyssey

Wednesday, April 27, 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Produced by Lightwire Theater

Marvin the mouse wants to be popular. Constantly bullied and picked on by the "cool" rats, he is labeled as a loser and a geek. To get away from the continuous badgering, he retreats into his science books and a world of fantasy. He longs to have adventures, to be the hero. Join Marvin on the space adventure of a lifetime: a trip to the surface of the moon on his homemade rocket, where he meets a strange cast of misfit creatures, learns of infinite peril and awesome beauty. Will Marvin make his dreams come true and gain the glory and acceptance he craves?

Grades: PreK-5; Curriculum Connections: language arts, science, theater

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The first is “The Producers,” the Mel Brooks classic cult comedy film now a big Broadway musical.

Winner of a record 12 Tony Awards, “The Producers” is hilarity Mel Brooks style, outrageous and brazen. It’s playing Jan. 15 for one evening performance. The second is also a musical comedy written by another film icon, Woody Allen. “Bullets Over Broadway” will be at the Lutcher for a matinee and evening performance on March 5.

The final musical production of the Lutcher season, also considered new Broadway, may have members of the audience dancing in the aisles but for sure singing out loud. “Saturday Night Fever” is set for one show on March 29 at 7:30 p.m. In one of the most loved dance movies of all time - made famous by John Travolta’s memorable moves and white suit and the Bee Gees legendary hits “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” “Jive Talking,” “You Should Be Dancing,” and “How Deep is Your Love?” - Tony Manero pursues his dreams to become a disco king. Can you dig it?

The Lutcher not only brings in new Broadway but a new event altogether. On Oct. 18 at 5:30 p.m. at the Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center and at the peak of the Scarecrow Festival, Shangri La and the Lutcher will host a “Symphony in the Garden,” featuring the Symphony of Southeast Texas, combining seasonal nature and magnificent music. The symphony will perform selections from “West Side Story,” “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Spiderman,” plus classics like “Moon River,” Duke Ellington favorites and more. Attendees are invited to bring lawn chairs and picnic baskets for an evening of alluring sights and sounds at sunset.

More musical entertainment is in the offing this season including a very special group of talented musicians, individually accomplished, collectively masterful. “An Evening with Vince Gill featuring the Time Jumpers” comes to the Lutcher Nov. 4 for one evening performance.

“We’re really excited about this performance because the tour is fairly new and includes many talented artists,” said Sanford. Basically, the Time Jumpers is a group of professional musicians who began to get together in Nashville and jam every

Season Ticket Su

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Monday at a bar. Word got out, and others would show up and join them, like Reba McEntire, Bonnie Raitt, Norah Jones and many recognizable artists, so they decided to take the group on the road.”

The Jumpers, who play classic country music and bluegrass, include 10 artists – Brad Albin (upright bass), Larry Franklin (fiddle), Paul Franklin (steel guitar), Vince Gill (vocals, electric and acoustic guitars), “Ranger Doug” Green (vocals, acoustic rhythm guitar), Andy Reiss (electric guitar), Kenny Sears (vocals, fiddle), Joe Spivey (fiddle, vocals), Jeff Taylor (accordion, piano) and Billy Thomas (drums, vocals).

Hear the different but also masterful sounds of “The Band of the Royal Marines & The Pipes, Drums and Highland Dancers of the Scots Guard,” Feb. 16 at 7:30 p.m. The group is known in the military musical world as the most versatile, playing everything from orchestral to dance band music distinguished by their synchronized movements and precise pageantry.

“Next year, for the first time ever, The Band of the Royal Marines will tour the U.S. The pageantry and the history of this organization is what attracts audiences and why I wanted to bring them to the Lutcher stage,” said Clark. “As they march towards the audience in full uniform, with leopard skins, bagpipes and drums, the audience will feel the sound and fury that has intimidated armies across the world. I expect that this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this group will make it an evening not soon forgotten.”

Another distinct musical group comes to the Lutcher – the Hot Sardines. Vanity Fair applauds their “unique repertoire, and a sound and style that are distinctly their own,” and Forbes magazine calls them “one of the best jazz bands in NYC today.”

Bandleader Evan “Bibs” Palazzo leads a brass lineup, layered with a rhythm section led by a stride-piano virtuoso in the Fats Waller vein combined with lead singer “Miz Elizabeth” Bougerol, who sings in both English and French, and a tap dancer. Their sound fuses musical influences from the Prohibition era to the Great Depression and beyond. The musical and talent diversity of the Hot Sardines bridges generations and captivates 21st-century audiences. See them April 6.

bscriber Advant ages

• Subscribers know ab • Entertainment pl out Lutcher events before the gene ans are set as patr ral public on • Opportunities to enjoy the same gr s often procrastinate and miss even eat seating area ye ts without prior pl • First opportunity ans ar af to • Ticket exchange purchase tickets the following seas ter year privileges on • Two payment op tions with purchase of • Discounted seat ing areas availabl six or more shows e for subscribers

Music and dance come together for two Lutcher productions. The first, “Shaping Sound,” is a production of artistic choreography also called “dance reimagined,” scheduled Jan. 29 at 7:30 p.m.

“If you love to watch ‘So You Think You Can Dance,’ or ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ on TV, this is a show you don’t want to miss because this is that same type of contemporary dance that we see on those shows,” said Sanford. “The artistic director is Travis Wall, who is the choreographer featured regularly on ‘So You Think You Can Dance,’ and this is his company performing.”

A diversity of options means a wide range of audience members will appreciate a variety of the shows, which is why the season includes a Christmas show, “A Very Electric Christmas,” Tuesday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. Lightwire Theater presents a heartwarming story combining new characters like an adventurous young bird named Max with traditional Christmas characters from the Nutcracker in a magical tale of adventure, friendship and love all powered by electroluminescent wire, essentially blacklight technology that brings puppet-based creatures to life.

In another incredible family show scheduled after the new year, internationally renowned “Riverdance” returns to the Lutcher on its 20th anniversary world tour for two shows, Feb. 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. This Irish dance phenomenon blends dance, music and song during this tour through North America following sold-out performances across Europe and Asia.

“This is the original ‘Riverdance,’ so it’s the same creative team but reworked and reimagined with new dances and new songs,” said Sanford. “Basically ‘Riverdance’ tells the story of the life of a river and how it begins and flows and works its way down where it ends and mirrors life and celebrates its Irish traditions.”

From October 2015 to March 2016, the Lutcher stage comes alive with first-rate productions but also Lutcher Incredible Kids Events which continue through April. In all there are nine kid events, including the Christmas show. (See sidebar.)

“Last year in 2014, we hosted more students in Lutcher events than ever - 20,000,” said Sanford.

“Most of the productions are what is called ‘page to stage’ and meet learning criteria for the schools, making these performances excellent field trips, but they are also open to the public.”

Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts season ticket renewals begin June 1, and new subscribers can begin ordering June 29. Various season ticket packages are available from the minimum fourshow package to packages including the full season. This season, a package of four shows will be available starting from approximately $140.

All shows, dates and times are subject to change.

For more information about the season or about becoming a season ticket holder, contact the Lutcher at 409.886.5535 or go online to www.lutcher.org.

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father

knows

best Top Ranking High School Graduates Share Advice

In honor of area high school valedictorians and salutatorians and in recognition of Father’s Day, we asked top ranking graduates to tell us a little about their future plans and share some of the best advice their dads and/or admired role models have given them.

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Camellia Pouncy, Valedictorian Future Plans: After high school, I plan on attending Texas A&M University gaining all of the knowledge on the aspect of engineering. I am focused on becoming a chemical engineer. Being involved in GT -TAME gave me hands-on experience of the everyday duties of an engineer, so I want to travel the world making improvements to people’s everyday life whether it’s from developing a newly designed plastic or creating effective medications to prevent various illnesses. Another goal that I have is to speak with and assist students in potentially being part of the engineering field. People informing me about this prestigious area helped me see that my academic interest tied into the major. Ultimately, I have the dream of being more than just a statistic. I want to make a difference in this world.

Best Advice: The best advice my father gave me was to always try my best in whatever task that I may have, be myself, and God will do the rest. This has made a great impact throughout my life. Having him as my father and a male role model has been a blessing. I love him for all that he has done in order for me to be the successful young lady that I am today.

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Jessica Paredez, Salutatorian Future Plans: I plan on attending Texas A&M in the fall. I have been admitted to their College of Engineering and will be majoring in chemical engineering. I will also add the necessary classes to my degree plan to receive my teaching license upon graduation.

Best Advice: Mr. Ben, my best friend’s dad, once told me that I needed to speak my mind more often.

I’ve always been a shy person, so this wasn’t exactly uncommon advice. However, instead of just leaving it at that, Mr. Ben actually explained why, which was a first. He told me that not expressing my good ideas was essentially the same as not having them, as it resulted in the same lack of results. Mr. Ben told me that no matter how smart a person is, that intelligence means nothing if it is not harnessed.

MONSIGNOR KELLY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

Matthew Miller, Valedictorian Future Plans: After graduating from Kelly, I plan to attend Rice University in Houston, Texas. I'm not 100 percent certain on my major as of yet, but two likely options right now are biology and biomedical engineering. Whatever I choose, there's a good

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It's a common piece of advice, but it's helped shape my plans for the future and has had a big impact on my life.

Alizeh Ahmad, Salutatorian Future Plans: Beginning in the fall, I will be attending Stanford University in California to study either human biology or bioengineering with a minor in creative writing. While these areas of study seem to be diametrically opposed, I find value in the unique and complementary perspectives that they provide; they are also relevant to my career goals as I hope to work in science and to write.

Best Advice: I am immeasurably grateful to both of my parents for selflessly making my growth and education a top priority. My father, Dr. Shariq Ahmad, encourages me to be tenacious and resilient by reminding me that "there are no failures, only results" from which one can learn and improve. His ceaseless efforts to better my future are inspiring.

My mother and father have both taught me much about diligence and integrity, and I continue to inculcate their teachings in my endeavors.

CLIFTON J. OZEN HIGH SCHOOL

Jolie' Gabriela Russell, Valedictorian Future Plans: I plan to attend Lamar University and major in chemical engineering.

Best Advice: To manage my time wisely so that I can get the most out of my day.

Denisse Sanchez Cardenas, Salutatorian Future Plans: I plan to attend Lamar University and major in nursing.

Best Advice: You must make sure you have goals in life in order to know where you want to go.

MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

Armani LaRae’ Alpough, Valedictorian Future Plans: I plan to attend Howard University and major in finance and then pursue a master’s degree in health administration.

Best Advice: The only person standing in the way of you pursuing your dreams is you. Know your selfworth and demand it from others. Be careful of those that want you to do good in life but not better than them. It’s easier to do wrong than to do right. To be the best you have to be able to handle the worst.

Jennie Nguyen, Salutatorian Future Plans: I plan on attending the University of Houston to pursue a degree in chemistry.

Best Advice: The best advice I have ever received came from the doctor I work closely with at a local clinic. Before we close up and call it a day, he and I always engage in light-hearted and sometimes even insightful conversations. Out of all of our witty discussions and jokes, there was something he said that stood out from all the rest: “Money comes and goes, but you can never get experiences back.” There are many flashy things that will catch your eyes; however, there will be a few that will make your heart race beyond words and do back flips across the ocean. We don’t live to buy luxury cars or wear fancy clothing; rather, Dr. P has taught me that we live for the people in life and the experiences that the world can offer.

NEDERLAND HIGH SCHOOL

Joshua Ortego, Valedictorian Future Plans: I plan to obtain a four-year degree at Lamar University in Beaumont in chemical engineering Best Advice: My dad, Darrel Ortego said: Stay focused and set goals and you will always achieve them.

Hung Justin Tran, Salutatorian Future Plans: After high school, I plan to attend Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas and pursue my chemical engineering degree. Hoping to graduate in five years, I plan to work in industries to create and seek new ideas within various products, such as plastics, and increase efficiency and productivity.

Best Advice: My father, Thang Tran, had always said to never give up on my dreams. He would support me on all of my decisions. He would also give me insights to the consequences of my decisions because he has aged and experienced many bad consequences.

silsbee HIGH SCHOOL

Jennifer Watters, Valedictorian Future Plans: I will be attending Lamar University to major in chemical engineering, following in my dad's footsteps. Hopefully, through college co-ops, I will be able to secure a position at a local plant.

Best Advice: The greatest piece of advice he has ever given me is that success can only be achieved through hard work and dedication.

The hard work might be accompanied by pain, but without pain, we can never grow to reach our goals. I have watched my dad work tirelessly for years to provide for his family and get the job done. He is the perfect example of where hard work can take you. He has also taught me that if you enjoy your job, it really isn't work. You have too much fun.

WEST BROOK HIGH SCHOOL

Maggie Zhang, Valedictorian Future Plans: I will attend the University of Houston in the fall and major in honors biomedical sciences.

Best Advice: Do your best at whatever you try. At the end of the day, if you have done your best, then you can be proud of yourself.

Maret Montanari, Salutatorian Future Plans: I will attend the University of Alabama in the fall and major in public relations.

Best Advice:: The phrase “pursue what makes you happy” remains the best advice I have ever been given. This means live your life for you, not anyone else. Despite its simplicity, the message remains profound, and I’ll continue to use this advice as a guideline for my future. Roll Tide!

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Acting

thumbs

up

to kid camps in southeast texas

W

by shelly vitanza

e’ve got fun, lots of fun for every age and interest of Southeast Texas kids this summer. Tot to teen you’ll find painting and soccer, acting and football, band and dance, exploring and engineering, swimming, reading, bubbles, movies and history! Whatever your offspring likes, or whatever you want them to try, Southeast Texas has got it in the form of summertime kid camps.

Find the listings here by organization and online at www.southeasttexas. com/events. Click “Events,” then “Calendar” and then select “Kid Camps” from the dropdown menu. Don’t forget to choose the dates that you are most interested in reviewing.

Beaumont Community Players Kidmunity Theater camps resulting in four productions based on age. All rehearsals being June 8.

- Players, grades 2 & 3; Performances of “Bugz,” June 25 & 26 - Jesters, grades 4 & 5; Performances of “The Grunch,” July 2 & 3 - Krewe, grades 6-8; Auditions May 11 & 12; Performances of “The Little Mermaid, Jr.,” July 9-11 - Troupe, grades 9-grad.; Auditions May 4 & 5; Performances of “The Pajama Game,” July 23-25 Contact: 409.833.4664 6th Annual CELT Kids Interactive Theatre Camp at Port Arthur Little Theater June 8-19 for ages 5-15 Camp runs M-F 9 a.m.-noon with performance on June 20 Contact: 409.727.7258 Lamar Theater/Film Camp July 21-22, 8 a.m.

Contact: 409.880.7244 jfgrothe@lamar.edu Lamar Musical Theatre Camp July 20-24, 8 a.m.

Contact: 409.880.8137

Art Beaumont Art League Kids Summer Art Camp, ages 6-13 July 27-31, Aug. 3-7 Contact: beaumontartleague.org/ summer-art-camp

Painting with a Twist: Kid Paint for All Ages 1-3 p.m.

June 6, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 27, 30 July 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 18, 22, 23, 25, 29, 30 Aug. 1, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 19, 20, 22 Contact: 409.866.0399 Summer Art Ventures 2015 at the Art Museum of Southeast Texas Culture in Colors, ages 8-11, June 15-19, 9 a.m.-noon Sculpture-iffic!, ages. 8-11, June 15-19. 1-4 p.m.

POW! Comic Art! ages 8-11, June 22-26, 9 a.m.-noon Clay Creations, ages 8-11, June 22-26, 1-4 p.m.

ModLife, ages 12-14, June 29-July 3, 9 a.m.-noon Let Me Make a Selfie, ages, 12-14, June 29-July 3, 9 a.m.-noon Young Art Adventurers I, ages 4-7, July 6-10, 9 a.m.-noon Young Art Adventurers II, ages 4-7, July 6-10, 1-4 p.m Young Art Adventurers III, ages 4-7, July 13-17, 9 a.m.-noon Young Art Adventurers IV, ages 4-7, July 13-17, 1-4 p.m.

Contact: 409.832.3432 Art Quest at the Stark Museum of Art Bird is the Word, grades K-2, June 16-19, 9 a.m.-noon iDraw, grades 3-5, June 23-25, 9 a.m.-noon Sculpture Matters, grades 3-5, July 21-23, 9 a.m.-noon Do You Want to Be a Sculptor, grades K-2, July 28-30, 9 a.m.-noon Mix It Up, grades K-2, Aug. 4-6, 9 a.m.-noon Me, Myself & 1, Aug. 11-13, grades 3-5, 9 a.m.-noon Contact: 409.886.2787 Explore the Mysteries of the Museum at the Museum of the Gulf Coast, ages 3-10 July 7, 14, 21, 28, 10-11 a.m.

Contact: 409.982.7000 EnviroKids at the Museum of the Gulf Coast June 8-19, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., grades 2 & 3 June 22-July 3, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., grades 4 & 5 Contact: 409.982.7000 Lamar Pre-College Art Program, ages 14-18 July 20-24, 8 a.m.

Contact: 409.880.8141

SoutheastTexasEvents.com

Cooking Rao’s Bake Camp, 1-4:30 p.m.

Making Cakes, ages 5-8 June 9, 16, 25; July 8, 14, 21 Making Cookies, ages 5-8 June 10, 23, 30; July 9, 16, 28 Making Cakes for ages 9-12 June 18, 24; July 1, 15, 22, 29 Making Cookies for ages 9-12 June 11, 17; July 2, 7, 22, 30 Contact: raos.bakecamp@yahoo.com Two Magnolias Cooking Camp, ages 5-12 from 9 a.m.-noon at the Art Museum of Southeast Texas Kids Cuisine, June 16-18 Fiesta Time, June 23-25 Time to Party, June 30-July 2 Grillin & Chillin, July 7-9 Deep in the Heart of Texas, July 14-16 Baking Basics, July 21-23 Time to Party, July 28-30 Contact: twomagnolias@hotmail.com

Day Camps Learn and Grow Day Camp at the Sterling Pruitt Center, ages 5-11 June 15-Aug. 13, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: 409.838.3613 ARC of Greater Beaumont Summer Camp, ages 5-21, at Westgate Memorial Baptist Church Day Camp, July 13-17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Teen Camp, Aug. 3-7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Contact: arcofbmt@arcofbmt.org Health & Wellness Center Summer Day Camp June 8-12, M-F, ages 6-12, 8 a.m.

Contact: 409.899.7777

Educational Beaumont Public Library Summer Reading Program June 5-July 17 at all libraries in the city system Contact: 409.981.5911 Beaumont Children's Museum Critter Camp, ages 7-12, June 8-12, 9 a.m.-noon Girls in Engineering, ages 8-12, June 22-26, 9 a.m.-noon Ready for Math, grades 1 & 2, July 6-10, 9 a.m.-noon Ready for Math, grades 3 & 4, July 6-10, 1-4 p.m.

Contact: 409.347.7919 Sign Language for Kids at the Miller Library Mondays, June 8-Aug. 10, 2-2:30 p.m., grades K-2 Mondays, June 8-Aug. 10, 2:30-3 p.m., grades 3-6 Contact: 409.866.9487

Camp Invention at Regina Howell, grades 1-6 June 15-19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: campinvention@invent.org

CHEM-E 101 Program, grades 9-11 July 27-31 Contact: deidra.mayer@lamar.edu 409.880.7870

Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center EcoRanger Camps Flocks of Feathered Friends, grades 5 & 6, July 7-10, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Mad About Mammals, grades 4 & 5, July 14-17, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Picture This: Nature Photography, grades 7-9, July 21-24, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Water Wonderlands, grades 3 & 4, July 28-31, 8:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m.

Flowers, Trees, Plants & Seeds, grades 5 & 6, Aug. 4-7, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Contact: 409.670.9113

Sports

Beaumont Heritage Society Camp Lookinback, ages 6-11, at the John Jay French Museum Session 1: July 14-17, 9 a.m.-noon Session II: July 21-24, 9 a.m.-noon Contact: 409.898.0348 Texas Energy Museum Space Camp, grades 3-5, July 28-31, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Contact: 409.833.5100 McFaddin-Ward House Summer Camp, ages 8-12, July 28-30, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Contact: 409.832.1906 Lamar Speech Pathology Articulation Boot Camp, for children with speech delays/impairments July 6-29 M/W; initial screenings, June 8-12 at the Lamar Speech and Hearing Clinic.

Contact: 409.880.8171, 409.880.7499, beth.byers@lamar.edu Lamar Summer Language Enrichment Program, for children with language disorders, autism or developmental delays in grades 3-7 July 7-30 T/Th Contact: 409.880.8171 Lamar Nursing Nightingale Experience, for students entering grades 10 & 11 & nominated by a high school counselor June 12-13 Contact: 409.880.8835 gina.hale@lamar.edu Texas Governor’s School, grades 10-12 June 14-July 3 Contact: 409.880.8046 siskda@lamar.edu ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp, grades 6-8 June 14-26 Contact: 409.880.7786 rlbroussard@lamar.edu Lamar Intro to Engineering (LITE) Program, grades 7 & 8, July 20-24 Contact: deidra.mayer@lamar.edu 409.880.7870

EventsBook

Texas Karate Academy Day Camp June 8-Aug. 21, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Contact: 409.892.9352 Southeast Texas Basketball School at Westgate Memorial Baptist Church June 8-11, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

July 6-10, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contract: 409.656.2785 409.673.8207 Tiger Rock Martial Arts Summer Camp at Beaumont Taekwondo & Jiu-Jitsu June 15-Aug. 7: Unlimited attendance 6 days/week for ages 4 through adult June 15-18: XP Tricking & Free Design Forms Camp June 29-July 2: Bo Staff & Weapons Camp July 27-30: Bully Know & Self Defense Camp Contact: 409.838.6667 Southeast Texas Baseball Academy at Ford Park, ages 4-15 June 16-18 (Tues-Thurs) 9 a.m.-noon July 14-16 (Tues-Thurs) 9 a.m.-noon July 21-23 (Tues-Thurs) 9 a.m.-noon Aug. 11-13 (Tues-Thurs) 9 a.m.-noon contact: 409.842.3900 Health & Wellness Center Youth Club, grades 2-6, June 8-Aug. 14 Activity Class: Mon., Wed., Fri., 10 a.m.

Tennis Club: Intermediate, Tues. 5 p.m.; Beginner, Thurs. 5 p.m.

Swim Club: Advanced, Tues. & Thurs., 3 p.m.; Beginner/Intermediate, Tues. & Thurs. 4 p.m.

Contact: 409.899.7777 Aces Tennis Academy at the Health & Wellness Center June 8-29, July 13-Aug. 3 Ages 6-8, 4 p.m., Ages 9-11, 5 p.m., Ages 12-17, 6 p.m.

Contact: 409.899.7777 Lamar Football Camp Youth Camp, June 8 & 9, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

High School, June 10 at Pearland High School; June 11 at Cy-Falls High School and Euless Trinity; June 12 for Mesquite High School, July 18 at Lamar University Contact: 409.880.7157 www.lamarfootballcamps.com Jim Gilligan Baseball Camps, ages 6-12 June 15-19, 9 a.m.-noon June 15-19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

June 22-24, 9 a.m.-noon June 22-24, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: www.jimgilliganbaseballcamps. com/summer-camps.cfm

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Games People Play Junior Golf Clinics, boys & girls, ages 7-16, 9-11 a.m.

Jun 8-11, June 15-18, June 29-July 2 & July 13-16 Contact: 409.866.3883 staff@gppgolf.com Breakthrough Basketball Camp at Vidor High School June 9-11, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: 409.533.6779 breakthroughbasketball.com Lamar Boys Basketball Camp June 9-12, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

June 22-25, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Elite Camp, June 27, 1-4 p.m.

Contact: www.lamarmensbasketballcamps.com Lamar Tennis Camp, ages 10-18, 9 a.m.-noon June 9-12, June 16-19, June 23-26, July 21-July 24, July 28-31 Contact: 409.880.8056 Lamar Volleyball Camp Individual Skills Camp, grades 7-9, June 8-10, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Youth Camp, grades 3-4, June 10-11, 9 a.m.-noon Setting & Attacking Clinic, any age, June 15 & 16, 5-6 p.m.

Serving & Defense Clinic, any age, June 15 & 16, 6:15-7:15 p.m.

Individual Skills Camp, grades 6-9, July 6-8, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Skills & Game Series, grades 10-12, July 8, 15 & 22, 4:30-6 p.m.

Skills & Games Series, 6th-9th grades, July 8, 15, 22, 6:30-9 p.m.

Advanced Skills, grades 9-11, July 13-15, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Contact: www.lamarvbcamps.com Zumba for Kids at Rogers Park Community Center, ages 5-13 June 9-30, 11 a.m.-noon Contact: 409.866.9487 Lamar Girls Basketball Elite Camp, June 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Individual Basketball Camp, June 16-19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Team Basketball Camp, June 20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: www.lamarwomensbasketballcamps.com Swim Like a Fish at the Health & Wellness Center Divided by age and skill level, 8 classes for 2 weeks, Mon.-Thurs., 45 minutes June 1-11, 9 a.m., June 15-25, 10 a.m., July 6-16, 11 a.m., July 20-30, 6 p.m., Aug. 3-13, 7 p.m.

Contact: 409.899.7777

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Lamar Boys & Girls Soccer Camp, ages 4-17 Half Day Soccer Camp, July 6-10, 9 a.m.-noon Full Day Soccer Camp, July 6-10, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Half Day Soccer Camp, July 20-24, 9 a.m.-noon Full Day Soccer Camp, July 20-24, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: 409.880.7595 www.lamarsoccercamp.com/boys-andgirls-summer-day-camps.cfm Lamar Speed & Power Camps ages 12 & over, July 7-10, 9 a.m.-noon ages 5 & over, July 7-10, 10:30 a.m.-noon Contact: www.lamarspeedandpowercamp.com/summer-day-camps.cfm

Vacation Bible Schools Saint Anthony Cathedral Basilica June 8-11, 9 a.m.-noon Contact: 281.889.0006 Summer Camp- Learning about God, Grace Community Church, Vidor June 10-Aug. 26, 7-8:30 p.m.

Contact: 409.769.6609 Calvary Baptist Church June 15-19, 9 a.m.-noon Contact: 409.898.7074 Calvary Baptist Church North June 15-19, 9 a.m.-noon Contact: 409.755.4100

City of Beaumont Swim Lessons at Magnolia Pool June, 9-19 for kids beginning at age 5; June, 23-26 for adults $10 per person Times Vary Contact: 409.838.3613

Lumberton First Baptist Church June 15-19, 6 p.m.

Contact: 409.755.4213

Music & Dance

Parkdale Assembly of God "Jesus The True Superhero" VBS 2015 July 25, 9-11 a.m.

Contact: 409.892.4450

Lamar Band Camp Middle School, June 14-18, 8 a.m.

High School, June 21-25, 8 a.m.

Contact: 409.880.8147 Lamar All-State Choir Camp July 19-22, 8 a.m.

Contact: 409.880.8144 Lamar Summer Dance Intensive July 13-17, 8 a.m.

Contact: 409.880.8037 Lamar Drum Camp, grades 6-12, July 13-16, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Contact: 409.651.4346 Percussion Camp, high school, July 21-25 Contact:409.880.8148 www.lamar.edu/bandcamp www.lamar.edu/music

First United Methodist Church June 22-26, 9 a.m.-noon Contact: 409.832.0295

Wesley Church Beaumont VBS 2015, age 3-grade 6 July 27-31, 8:45 a.m.-noon Contact: 409.892.7733

Have a safe, fun summer!

Be sure to visit us online throughout the summer for even more updates! www.southeasttexas.com/events

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Infographic 18 2015 EventsBook june

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weather or not it happens... be

prepared!

Those of us living on the Gulf Coast may not remember the year we graduated from high school or our wedding anniversary dates, summer equinox or tax day, but we for sure know hurricane season is June 1 – Nov. 30. That’s the time of year when it’s most likely that a gigantic storm that can measure up to 600 miles wide and has winds sustained at 74 mph or higher forms over tropical waters and moves onto land. Results as we’ve experienced include storm surges, flood waters and tornadoes.

Since the season is here, we’ve gathered some interesting facts to remind us all to heed weather warnings and take any threats of storms making landfall in Southeast Texas seriously.

Protect Yourself Hurricane App

Download the hurricane tracker app available for iPhone and Android free from the American Red Cross. The app allows you to monitor conditions in your area or throughout the storm track, prepare your family and home, find help and let others know you are safe even if the power is out. It’s a must have for anyone who lives in an area where a hurricane may strike or has loved ones who do. To download, text "GETCANE" to 90999 or search "Red Cross Hurricane" in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Register with STAN

STAN is the Southeast Texas Alerting Network. It is a messaging and notification system that allows emergency management officials and industry to make important information available to Southeast Texas residents. Register online at www.thestan.com and receive not just weather emergency information but any emergency news related to Southeast Texas.

Facts about

Hurricanes The word hurricane comes from the Taino Native American word, hurucane, meaning evil spirit of the wind.

Tropical cyclones with maximum sustained surface winds of less than 39 mph are called tropical depressions.

Tropical cyclones with maximum sustained winds of 39 mph or higher are called tropical storms.

When a storm's maximum sustained winds reach 74 mph, it is called a hurricane.

Before you evacuate, place a clear plastic pitcher filled with ice cubes in the freezer. When you get back home, if it is a solid block of ice, you'll know that everything was defrosted and should be thrown out. If the ice is still whole or only partially melted, the power returned before the food spoiled.

some cool tips Southeast Texans that evacuated during Hurricane Rita were nervous about possibly returning to a flooded house or a tree through their roof. Those of us who were fortunate enough to have avoided that breathed a sigh of relief... until we opened our refrigerators! These tips will keep you from unnecessarily tossing out food, but if it does have to be done, will keep the "gross out" level to a minimum.

Prior to evacuating, place food inside plastic garbage bags and return it to your refrigerator and freezer. That way, when you do return, if it does need to be discarded, simply remove the already bagged up food.

Major Hurricanes in recent U.S. History EventsBook

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Sandy Category 2 October 22-29, 2012

Rita Category 5 September 20-24, 2005

Andrew Category 5 August 16-28, 1992

Path: Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba and New Jersey and New York coastlines

Path: Louisiana/Texas; makes landfall in Louisiana/Texas as a Category 3

Path: Northwestern Bahamas, southern Florida peninsula and south-central Louisiana

Death toll 147 $50 billion in preliminary damages Isaac Category 1 August 21-September 1, 2012

Path: Haiti, Cuba, southern Mississippi and southeastern Louisiana

Death toll 34 $2.35 billion in estimated damages Irene Category 1 August 20-29, 2011 Path: Makes landfall in eastern North Carolina

Death toll 49 $7.3 billion in damages Tomas Category 2 October 29-November 7, 2010 Path: St. Lucia, Barbados, St. Vincent, the Grenadines, Curacao and Haiti

Death toll 44 $350 million in damages Ike Category 2 September 1-14, 2008

Path: Hispaniola, Cuba and the U.S. Gulf Coast

Estimated death toll 103 $29.5 billion in damages Wilma Category 3 October 15-25, 2005 Path: Florida, Haiti, Mexico, Jamaica

Death toll 22 $21 billion in damages

Death toll directly attributed to Rita is 7 $12 billion in damages Katrina Category 3 August 25-29, 2005 Path: Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana; hits Florida as a Category 1; hits Grand Isle, LA as a Category 3

Death toll 1,833 $108 billion in damages Ivan Category 5 September 2-24, 2004

Path: Grenada, Jamaica, Grand Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Tobago, Barbados

Death toll 92 Over $18.8 billion in damages Frances Category 2 August 25-September 8, 2004 Path: Florida, Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands, Bahamas

Death toll 8 $9.5 billion in estimated damages Charley Category 4 August 9-15, 2004 Path: Grand Cayman Islands, Cuba, Florida and South Carolina

Death toll 15 Over $15 billion in damages

Death toll 26 $26.5 billion in damages Hugo Category 4 September 10-22, 1989 Path: Caribbean Islands (Puerto Rico), South Carolina and North Carolina

Death toll 50 $7 billion in damages

Hurricane Categories

As Ranked by the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

1 2 3 4 5

74-95 mph winds 96-110 mph winds 111-129 mph winds 130-156 mph 157 mph or higher

States hit by the most hurricanes

tats S y m r o t S

ce 1851. in s . .S U d n la nes hit main a ic r r u h 0 9 ing been 2 851 occurr 1 e There have c in s s e an en 11 hurric vember 30. e b e v a h e r The e 1-No outside Jun anes have ic r r u h e v fi or y .

Three categ since 1851 . .S U d n la hit main storm hit ly d a e d t s o The m in 1900. d n la Is n o t Galves to for a storm e c la p ly e k .; The most li atteras, N.C H e p a C is hit the U.S. .37 years.

1 y r e v e e r e at one hits th s Katrina th a w m r o t s sive pi costing ip Most expen s is s is M d a an hit Louisian n. $108 billio

20

Louisiana

SOURCES: NOAA, CNN, hurricanecity.com, hurricane-facts.com

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wordof themonth Hurrication The combination of two words “hurricane” and “vacation” come together to form a term Gulf Coasters have become all too familiar with but hope to not experience – hurrication. A hurrication is a forced vacation due to the threat of a hurricane.

Southeast Texans start thinking about preparing for a hurrication when the meteorologist says, “We have a tropical storm in the Gulf.”

As a storm moves past the Yucatan Peninsula, gains strength over the warm Gulf of Mexico and the colored cone of landfall possibilities tightens on our tracking charts, we prepare for the worst – evacuation, which is the beginning of a hurrication.

Some Gulf Coasters stay hurrication ready; others prepare when there’s a storm in the Gulf. Preparations can include ensuring full gas tanks in the car, stocking up on water and nonperishables, keeping refrigerators and freezers clean, organizing photo albums and scrapbooks for easy load-and-go, and even making hotel reservations in locales west and north.

Although both a vacation and a hurrication are trips, time away from home, the two terms represent completely different life experiences. A vacation is a much anticipated, well-planned, time designated, oftentimes, relaxing time away from home at a desired location with loved ones and no pets. A hurrication is a last-minute, chaotic, rushed, stressed and forced departure from your home because of a mandatory evacuation. It’s shared not only with your immediate loved ones but also your in-laws and pets and 100,000 other people going in the exact same direction at the exact same time. Oftentimes the destination of a hurrication is unknown. It can be a hotel/motel, shelter, your car, or a distant relative with whom you don’t even exchange Christmas cards. The length of time of a hurrication is also unknown contingent on a hurricane’s path, damage done to your town/home and restoration of power and town infrastructure as well as travel time to return due to your travel companions - 100,000 people also traveling home at the exact same time.

on this date

in Southeast Texas Saturday, June 4, 1983 Barbara Mandrell performs at the Civic Center.

Tuesday, June 14, 1960 Houston receives preliminary census of 932,680, making it the 6th largest city in the United States.

Friday, June 23, 1978 “Grease” starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John played at the Gaylynn Twin Theatre.

Friday, June 17, 1994 O.J. Simpson was hunted down and captured in his driveway after running from charges of murdering his ex-wife and her friend and leading police along 60 miles of freeways and streets in Los Angeles.

Thursday, June 10, 1965 Groundbreaking took place for a new $43,000 assembly and exhibits building on the South Texas State Fairgrounds.

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BrewReview Have a Session

By Brandon East Over the past several years we've seen most craft breweries launch low-alcohol (around 4.5 percent ABV), high-flavor brews in their portfolio, otherwise known as "session beers." Session really means you can have one or two and not worry too much about what you're doing afterwards. These beers could also be pretty good after a workout or some outdoor exercise as the beer's natural carbohydrates, protein, electrolytes and plant-based nutrients help to replenish some of what your body lost.

A gose is good here because it has salt and is, in many cases, lower in alcohol. If you're wanting some beers that are lower in alcohol and pack a nice flavor punch, I recommend the following:

Anderson Valley Blood Orange Gose 4.2% ABV

Firestone Walker Easy Jack 4.5% ABV

Founders All Day IPA 4.7% ABV

Lagunitas Day Time IPA 4.65% ABV

New Belgium Session IPA 4.5% ABV

Odell Loose Leaf 4.5% ABV

Real Ale White 4.6% ABV

Tips & Tricks fro m

By Emily Wheel

er

DIY for Dad

my Pinterest Bo ards

June is all about dads, and there are so many fun ways to make yo urs feel special.

It's not always about what's be hind that cute , golf-themed wrapping paper, but the creativity and thought that went into planning that special gift for dad. Some simple little deta ils can make a big impact on dad and your kidd os!

Decorate for Dad Leading up to Fa ther's Day (or m aybe just at one cial meal) get cr speeative and turn your table into a dadthemed affair.

Whether it's go lf, fishing, beer or cooking he likes, little touches can go a long way. Turn napk ins into bow ties with a simple notch of ribbo n. Fill vases with golf balls.

Ask your childre n to help by deco rating fish made from craft pape r and hang them from the light fix ture. See photos for inspiration.

Tackle a Sweet Tooth If dad has a swee t tooth, fill a sm all tackle box with candies like Swed ish fish, Skittles, gummy worms, sour straws, etc.

Maybe dad is a beer lover... fill empty, clean Co rona or Model o Especial bottles (clear) w ith his favorite ca ndies or treats, and presen t them in a pain ted or decorated six-pac k carrier.

Rao’s Beer Glass Tasting and Dinner Still needing a Father's Day gift idea for the craft beer-loving guy in your life?

Rao's Bakery has the perfect solution.

On June 20 Rao's is hosting its first Beer (Glass) Tasting and Dinner. The first part of the evening will include a craft beer glass tasting hosted by world-renowned German glassmaker Spiegelau. You’ll will sample wheat, IPA and stout glasses with Golf in Style some amazing beers while comparing them to a traditional pint glass.

For the father w ho golfs... let yo ur little ones ge You'll keep these three special beers glasses as well. ative with perm t creanent markers an d golf balls! What The second part of the evening will be a smoked brisket dinner wouldn't want th dad e fanciest and m ost personalized accompanied by several side dishes and desserts made in house. balls on the cour golf se?

The event will be held at the Rao's party room on Dowlen Road and is a very limited engagement. The cost of the event is $60 per Your kids will ha ve a "ball" helpin g make somethi person, which includes the beer glass tasting, your beer glasses for dad! ng fun and dinner. All reservations can be made by contacting Kyndale SoutheastTexas.co at 409.832.0252 and must be paid when signing up. This event is m is compatible with Pinterest!

Father’s Day weekend and will be a great gift for any father. The second portion of the evening is a B.Y.O.B. bottle share. We'll be busting out some goodies.

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social seen 1. Happy lobster eaters: Connie and Paul Szuch.

2. Kathy and Johnnie Gonzรกlez enjoyed the tunes of Champagne Room at the Chamber's LobsterFest.

3. Iris and Jerry Nathan celebrated the Grea ter Beaumont Chamber of Commerce LobsterFest Hawaiian style.

4. Benita Davis humors golfers at the Mira cle Match for Life Golf Tournament and finds the tournament's best dressed Chris Harmon.

5. District Attorney Bob Wortham and Judg e Raquel West help host CASA of Southeast Texas' Justice is Served.

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featured performances

performing arts

the other mozart

By Beth Gallaspy In 18th century Europe, two Mozarts drew praise for their breathtaking compositions and virtuoso performances, but today only one is remembered. An exciting new play telling the story of “The Other Mozart” opens June 4 in Beaumont and runs for two weekends.

A one-woman show telling the story of Nannerl Mozart, the forgot-

ten sister of the well-known composer, “The Other Mozart” by Sylvia Milo has earned critical acclaim during runs in New York, New Orleans and Austria and is nominated for a Drama Desk Award for sound design.

Its limited run in Beaumont is being produced by local theater group Ad Hoc Beaumont in collaboration with Beaumont Community Players.

“It’s a heartbreaking story that’s

The Other Mozart 2 p.m.

June 6

7:30 p.m.

June 4-6 & June 12-13

by Sylvia Milo

Betty Greenberg Center for Performing Arts 4155 Laurel Ave., Beaumont

Tickets $20, available at

beaumontcommunityplayers.com or email adhocbeaumont@gmail.com

PROFESSIONAL

COMMUNITY

Lutcher Theater for the Performing Arts, 707 W. Main, Orange, 409.886.5535 Mamma Mia June 17 at 7:30 p.m.

Julie Rogers Theatre, 765 Pearl, 409.838.3435 Quartet Across America June 26 at 6:30 p.m.

Ad Hoc Beaumont at the Betty Greenburg Center for the Performing Arts, 4155 Laurel Ave., Beaumont, 409.833.4664 The Other Mozart June 4-6, 12 &13 at 7:30 p.m. & June 6 at 2 p.m.

Bugz: A Kidmunity Production June 25 & 26 at 7 p.m.

told in a beautiful way,” said Sara Florence Fellini, the New York-based actress who will portray Nannerl in Beaumont. “It’s a little window into the delicate beauty of that time period with the story of this woman who is so charming and so lovely that you just want to get to know her.”

Fellini calls the show “visually stunning” with all of the action performed atop a specially designed 18-foot dress. Fellini said audiences appreciate the intimacy of the show.

At some performances, she has seen young girls mesmerized by the costume throughout the 75-minute runtime. The show includes minimal adult language.

Although none of Nannerl Mozart’s compositions survive, the show incorporates music by her brother and Marianna Martines, a female composer of her time, as well as new compositions making use of household objects such as teacups and corsets.

Expectations for women of her time

eventually forced Nannerl to abandon music for the domestic sphere.

While assisting with an early production of “The Other Mozart” starring Milo, the writer, Fellini memorized the script she found so beautiful and readily volunteered when an understudy and alternate performer was needed.

Audiences have responded to this story of a woman who faced restrictions and biases simply because of her gender and have found parallels in their own lives.

“She explores the outward biases women can’t play instruments; that’s absurd - but also there are these delicate biases, the small biases that kill you quietly over a long period time,” Fellini said. “Her father will say, ‘My son you are a genius, and Nannerl, you have talent.’ Those are the more evocative ones we can relate to today.”

Tickets for “The Other Mozart” are $20 each, available at beaumontcommunityplayers.com or by emailing adhocbeaumont@gmail.com.

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visual arts

Vietnam troopship graffiti reveals messages from the past

By Melissa Tilley The Museum of the Gulf Coast presents a history-filled exhibition revealing the stories of American soldiers and Marines traveling to Vietnam during the 1960s. “Marking Time: Voyage to Vietnam” includes graffiti drawn by those young men reflecting their attitudes and the events they endured during that turbulent time.

“This exhibit is important as it showcases the thoughts and ideas of young American men headed to war in a country most knew nothing about,” said Museum of the Gulf Coast Director David Beard. “These young men, many who had never even seen the ocean, spent three long weeks on troopships with lots of time to think. The graffiti is a product of both introspection and boredom.”

The exhibit features an eight-person berthing unit removed from the troopship General Nelson M. Walker, complete with original sheets, pillows and life preservers. Over 300 graffiti-

inscribed canvases were collected from the ship and are exhibited as wall hangings along with the name of the man’s hometown and personal stories from the voyage incorporated into exhibit text panels. According to Beard, there will be four bunk canvases with graffiti drawn by Texans.

Every bunk canvas has at least one story to tell, especially since some of the artwork and slogans capture the era’s politics, military pride, humor and anti-war sentiments.

Former Walker troop passenger, 7/17th Air Cavalry helicopter pilot Al Sebaka, offered his explanation: “Who could’ve known that anyone at all (besides us) would ever follow the story of this well-used troopship and the souls who rode it to war and home.

Our scribbles and doodles were left certainly to mark our passing, our existence, and with the knowledge that when it turned around and headed home that even if we never made the return trip, our mark would.”

“Marking Time” also includes personal items left behind by the troops and collected from the bunks during the scrapping operation. Other artifacts, including personal photos taken by Walker troop passengers aboard the ship, are also used to tell the story of the young Americans going to war by sea.

When the graffiti aboard the Walker was discovered in 1997, the Vietnam Graffiti Project was created

by Art and Lee Beltrone of Keswick, Va., to preserve the historic canvases by removing them from the ship and placing them in museums throughout the country. The ship was eventually scrapped in 2005, and more of the artifacts were saved. The Beltrones then set to develop an exhibit that would travel the country and present the stories as a way to honor the veterans’ military service.

The Museum of the Gulf Coast is also using this exhibit as the basis of an oral history project for Vietnam-

era veterans. They are planning to record local veterans’ experiences during their voyage to Vietnam and then compare and contrast experiences of those who spent weeks at sea on a ship with those who traveled by air and arrived in Vietnam in a matter of hours, with far less time to contemplate their destination. For more information on this project, contact the museum at 409.982.7000.

“Marking Time: Voyage to Vietnam” will be on view at the Museum of the Gulf Coast June 6 through Aug. 30. The museum is located at 700 Procter St. in Port Arthur. For more information, visit www.museumofthegulfcoast.org.

featured exhibits Art Museum of Southeast Texas

500 Main, Beaumont, 409.832.3432

Artwork by Annie Orchard in Café Arts, June 4-Aug. 9 Will-Amelia Sterns Price: Mike's Road to Taos, through Aug. 30 Selections from the Permanent Collection, through Aug. 30 The Art Studio

720 Franklin St., Beaumont, 409.838.5393

The Alternative Show, June 6-30 OPENING RECEPTION: June 6, 7 p.m.

Beaumont Art League

2675 Gulf, Beaumont, 409.833.4179

Barney Stinnett Exhibit, through June 10 Summer Breeze Show, through June 10

Museum of the Gulf Coast

700 Procter Street, Port Arthur, 409.982.7000

Marking Time: Voyages To Vietnam, through Aug. 31 Stark Museum of Art

712 Green Avenue, Orange, 409.886.2787

Left: Original eight-man berthing unit, complete with original sheets, pillows and life vests, removed from troopship General Nelson M. Walker.

Above: “Marking Time: Voyage to Vietnam” exhibit introduction panel features original General Nelson M. Walker voyage photographs taken in 1966 and 1967.

Below: Vietnam Graffiti Project volunteers collect troopship General Nelson M. Walker artifacts during 2005 ship scrapping at Brownsville, Texas.

Drawn to Life: Audubon’s Legacy, through July 17 The Legacy Lives On, through July 25 Doodle Day, Every Friday, noon-3 p.m.

Scavenger Hunt: Explore the Great ARTdoors, June 3-27 Gallery Conversations: John James Audubon "Myself", June 13, 11a.m.-noon Exhibition Celebration Special Event, June 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Texas Artists Museum

3501 Cultural Center Dr., Port Arthur, 409.983.4881

Nederland Art Guild Meet to Paint, Every Saturday, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

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singles

single socializing in Southeast Texas

By Chrissie Mouton Is marriage the magic to happiness? For many, the answer is no.

If you’re American, odds are you’re single. In fact, more than half of Americans are in the same boat, up from 37 percent back in 1976, according to a report by economist Edward Yardeni.

Television shows like “Sex And The City” portray glamorous lives for single women. The “Friends” were mostly single and had, well, great friends.

But the reality is, with so many Americans not bringing a “plus one” to the next dinner party, coupled with a huge diversity in preferences and practices in a potential “soulmate,”, the dating world is a scary place.

Then you add living in a small area, like Southeast Texas, where it might seem that the dating pool is shallow. After all, Texas finds itself nationally about in the middle when it comes to the number of those not married. It makes the pool sound big, but if you’re checking off a list of required traits for a mate, you could find yourself in the kiddie pool.

So what’s a single looking for love to do?

Here are a few options in the area.

Salsa Dance Lessons at D’Vine Wine. Turn up the heat, meet new people and learn this popular dance style.

“It is very social, and you definitely have an opportunity to meet a wide range of individuals, from college students to people in their early 70s,” said Gordon Scott Williams, host.

“I want to make sure it is a fun atmosphere. We rotate dance partners giving everyone the opportunity to meet and dance with each other. You can't help but meet people in this situation.”

For more information, contact D’Vine Wine at 409.861.0400.

The Jefferson County Single Adults Club is for the young at heart, both single and single again, because being single can be difficult no matter the age.

“People come here for socializing and for friendships,” said Mickey Riley, club president. “Our mission is to promote socializing and enhancing the life of people who are single.”

Many of the group’s members are either divorced or widowers.

“We have people from all walks of life there,” Riley said. “We have retired doctors, lawyers, a lot of housewives whose husbands have died, and this is the first opportunity in their lives to get out and socialize.”

Riley said some of their members found love again mingling at their twice a week dances at what is the largest dance floor in Southeast Texas at the Jefferson County Singles Club, 7725 Green Ave.., Nederland.

“We’ve had quite a few people that have met their soulmates and have built a nice life for themselves,” Riley said.

Get involved by contacting Tonia Hass at 409.549.7257 or email ton4hug@aol.com.

Beaumont Christian Singles was organized

for those seeking connections to those with the same religious values. Nikki McBride, organizer, said there was a calling for her to form the group for singles and single again Southeast Texans from about 20-40 years old.

Members gather for Bible studies at church (Westgate Church of Christ) and at various homes. “We’ve [also] gone salsa dancing, bowling, putt-putt, game nights, picnics and much more,” McBride said.

McBride said her inspiration comes from knowing the hardships that can sometimes come with being a Christian single.

“That’s why I feel compelled to provide opportunities for other singles to cultivate personal and spiritual growth while developing meaningful Christian relationships,” said McBride.

"Since my first post about starting this group my inbox has been flooded with messages from people going through a divorce and feel so alone or they're just plain lonely," she said. "Those are the people this group is for."

“This group is not about finding a mate at all.

It’s about finding a community of people going through the same thing.” McBride said many of the members are just looking for someone to talk to. “If people happen to find a mate, great!”

Single is no longer a lack of options- but a choice. A choice to refuse to let your life be defined by your relationship status but to live every day Happily and let your Ever After work itself out.”

Mandy Hale The Single Woman: Life, Love, and a Dash of Sass Though there haven’t been any love connections yet, several friendships have developed, which is more about the connection than the relationship.

She believes the key out of singles land is indeed to find love, but not in a significant other.

"I believe that once they find love in Him, earthly love will follow," McBride said.

Learn more about Beaumont Christian Singles by following them on Facebook at facebook.com/ beaumontchristiansingles.

Researchers in the Harvard Grant study, one of the most comprehensive longitudinal studies on happiness, discovered that joy was found over-

whelmingly in one thing: relationships, but not necessarily romantic relationships.

George Vaillant, Harvard psychiatrist who directed the study ending in 2004, told the Huffington Post, “Joy is the connection. The more areas in your life you can make connection, the better.”

Research is really telling us there is no recipe for happiness, but connections, friends or otherwise, will ultimately lead us to feeling fulfillment. And who knows, a connection could indeed lead to a walk down the aisle.

For the largest group of singles in Southeast Texas go to www.SoutheastTexas.com Singles Club.

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charity

Southeast Texas Hosts International Cycling Event

10th Annual Spindletop Spin

Bikers are coming from near and far, Australia to be exact, to ride in Beaumont’s 10th Annual Spindletop Spin.

More than 1,000 bikers from all over the country, including riders from Wisconsin and Kansas, Houston and Lake Charles, and out of the country, are expected to pedal over to the Great Lawn of the Event Centre, Saturday, June 6 for the Jefferson County Bar Association Foundation’s cycling fundraiser. The ride is designed for every age group and riding level, featuring four courses and varied start times. The 96-mile ride starts at 7 a.m., followed by the 52-mile ride and 29-mile ride at 7:30 a.m. and a 13-mile route at 8 a.m.

Locals need speed, too, and represent the majority of cyclists. Patrick O’Sullivan, 15, is a freshman at West Brook High School who will be riding for the fourth year.

“The first year I was 12 years old and borrowed a friend’s bike and rode on my own, and it’s always been really good,” said O’Sullivan, whose mom, Coni Little, is one of 200 volunteers for the event.

“The first year I rode 13 miles; the next year I did the 29 miles and then the last two years, I did 52 miles. I

am shooting for the 100-mile route this year.”

According to Bonnie Dean, director of the Jefferson County Bar Association and the Foundation, the Spin has become known in cycling circles across the world as a high-energy serious, summer ride that is a lot of fun because of the hospitable Southeast Texas rest stops.

“When I quit this job, I want to work one of the rest stops,” jokes Dean. “Most of the rest stops are themed, decorated and the people who work them dress up in character. When the riders get to the rest stop, we’re told they are refreshed and replenished but also entertained.”

Dean said rest stop themes and décor have become a little competitive, and rest stop sponsors keep their plans secret until the morning of the event. One rest stop last year featured an Old West theme and served root beer floats, for example.

Another compelling feature of the run is the purpose. All of the monies raised ($68,000 last year) stay in Southeast Texas, funding Jefferson County Bar Association Foundation programs (showcased in the sidebar this page) like the Veterans Initiative, created to help U.S. veterans with their legal needs, and

Adoption Day, which helped 29 children children in Southeast Texas find permanent homes in 2014.

Spindletop Spin is an athletic event but also a community get together. Everyone is invited to cheer riders on all day along the race route but also at the main event tent at the Event Centre where there will be food, live music and a DJ, trivia, door prizes and lots of fun until the last rider makes it to the finish line.

Cyclists can register online at www.spindletopspin.com, the day before the race, June 5 from 3-7 p.m. or the morning of the race at 6 a.m. at the Event Centre, 700 Crockett St. The cost for an individual is $30; the cost for the family ride is $40 for two adults and child/children; $25 for one adult and child/ children. Children must be under 18. Packet pickup June 5, from 3–7 p.m. at the Event Centre.

Jefferson County Bar Association Foundation Programs The Evelyn Lord Teen Court program (which is a partnership with the City of Beaumont, the Municipal Court of the City of Beaumont and the Jefferson County Bar Association) provides assistance to first-time misdemeanor (non-traffic) juvenile offenders who have pled guilty as an alternative to the adult criminal system. The defendants appear before a jury of their peers (teen volunteers). Teen Court is conducted once a month excluding December and summer months.

are awaiting adoption. It is celebrated locally in November of each year and finalizes the adoptions of children in foster care. Adoptions are provided at no cost to the families.

The Pipeline Project introduces at-risk fourth and fifth graders to the legal system and the law highlighting the Constitution & the Bill of Rights. The program encourages them to stay in school and seek higher education. A volunteer attorney team is assigned to a school and the same team conducts at least four programs during a school year for two years.

Community Education – A legal workshop for Parents with Special Needs Children was conducted to educate more than 100 parents, teachers and caregivers on dealing with the legal needs facing special needs children as well as informing them of the public educational rights.

The Veterans Initiative was created to help U.S. veterans with their legal needs. Quarterly legal seminars/advice clinics are provided at the local VA Outpatient hospital on topics such as family law, consumer law, wills and probate. At least two times per year, a three-hour legal advice clinic is offered to veterans and in some cases pro bono representation is provided. Any veteran needing legal assistance can contact the Jefferson County Bar Association throughout the year for assistance – 500 veterans get legal assistance.

National Adoption Day is a partnership between the Department of Family & Protective Services, CASA of Southeast Texas, Jefferson County Domestic Courts and the Jefferson County Bar Association. It helps raise awareness of the 129,000 children (IS THIS IN TEXAS OR REGIONALLY?) in foster care who

Pro Bono Program provides legal aid for indigent residents (in non-criminal issues) in Southeast Texas year round, and last year provided legal aid to 284 new applicants.

Civics Education – I Was First, Vote For Me! Educated more than 100 students on why it is important to VOTE and taught them about important historical figures who shaped our legal system.

Constitution Day presentations exposed more than 2,415 students (K-12) to the ideals of the Constitution.

Community Education – More than 100 area seniors (55 or older) were informed about wills, estate planning, Medicare and elder law.

Legal Line – Legal Line is a community service outreach program of the Jefferson County Bar Association. It is designed to help the public get simple legal advice, answers to legal questions and referrals to helpful resources over the telephone.

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entertainment

Summer in the City No matter how hot the temps get this summer in Southeast Texas, the entertainment in downtown Beaumont will be hotter. The City of Beaumont has plans for events at varying locations throughout downtown destinations.

Family nights get jazzed with musical entertainment at the Event Centre. On two nights, the community is invited for free food and beer samplings while listening to live performances of the Jazz Innovators, June 25, and Justin Pierce Band, July 23.

Both Jazz at the Lake events are 5:30 -7:30 p.m. and designed for business networking after work or for a fun family night. The band will be set up inside the Event Centre with music piped outside. Guests can sit inside and outside. Music will be audible from the Centennial playground for those families who want to swing to their jazz.

Celebrate the country’s birthday – the Fourth of July – down on the Neches River. The city will host the annual music and fireworks celebration

Classic Movie Nights on July 4 with food vendors, beer garden and the traditional Symphony of Southeast Texas patriotic concert in the Julie Rogers Theater.

Mid-July means more music. Expect multiple stages and an unbeatable lineup of live music inside and outside the Jefferson Theater for the City of Beaumont’s 10th Annual Kinsel Lincoln Jazz+Blues Festival on July 18. Bring the entire family for food and fun. Tickets are $10.

Take in more tunes at one of the coolest places to hang out on a hot summer day – Beautiful Mountain Skate Plaza, 999 Laurel Ave. at Magnolia downtown – where Southeast Texas Chevy Dealers Association is sponsoring three concerts all beginning at 4 p.m.

June 13 the Ramblin Boys will hit the high notes; other bands are being booked for July 11 and Aug. 1. Beaumont’s Skate Plaza features ledges, rails, banks, manual pads, a bank-to-bank and long quarter pipes for transitional skating for all ages and skill levels.

Cooler than cool is classic movie night at the Jef-

at the Jefferson Theater June 4: Ghostbusters June 11: Caddyshack June 19: Jaws June 26: Frida July 3: Top Gun July 10: Raging Bull July 17: The Lost Boys July 24: El Mariachi ferson all summer long. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the movies start at 7:30 p.m. Come early for a good seat and yummy concessions, beer and wine.

Stay jazzed this summer but get ready to rock in the fall. The Second Annual ROCKtoberfest is scheduled for Oct. 30 at the Jefferson Theater.

go out

Sea Rim State Park

A Must-Do for Your Southeast Texas Summer Need to put your toes in the sand and hear the ripple of the waves on the shore but don’t have a beach house? Sea Rim State Park is less than an hour from Beaumont and ideal for a quick beach fix, an overnight camp and hike, and even some fishing.

The park was closed from 2010 until June 2014 after being decimated by Hurricanes Rita and Ike, but with the completion of some basic amenities and campsites, Sea Rim is back for public enjoyment.

Phase one of the state’s reconstruction effort is nearly complete, allowing visitors to enjoy this diverse natural beauty including the D. Roy Harrington Beach unit, which gives access to 5.2 miles of shoreline on the Gulf of Mexico, and also the Marshlands unit, allowing visitors to hike and canoe/kayak the marsh.

The 4,141-acre state park south of Port Arthur and west of Sabine Pass, now has campsites for rent that provide water and electricity. A cabin that sleeps six people is also available for rent. In addition, campers are invited to more primitive camping on the beach. Sea Rim has rinse-off showers and pit toilets.

“Basically, phase one of the rebuilding of Sea Rim is done,” said Nathan Londenberg, park superintendent. “We have the campsites, basic bathrooms and the last part of phase one will be complete by the fall. It includes building a dune fence to help protect the park from storm surges and reestablish our dunes. It is out to bid right now, and we should see work on that this summer.”

Phase two to rebuild Sea Rim will include a new headquarters and restrooms with showers and hot running water.

“We see quite a bit of traffic now,” said Londenberg. “But people don’t realize the park is open, and they are welcome to come out.”

Most who do happen upon Sea Rim take the Gambusia hike, a decked, three-

quarter-mile hike named after a fish that eats mosquito larvae and winds through the marsh where crabs, fish and alligator live and are visible.

Various areas of the park can also be enjoyed by boat. Sea Rim rents canoes and kayaks for $15 an hour.

Much is planned at Sea Rim this summer starting with the Gambusia Trail Hike on June 6 at 11 a.m. The second Saturday of each month, June-August, Sea Rim will host fishing clinics for all ages beginning at 9 a.m.The last Saturday of each summer month, Sea Rim offers "Crabbing 101" at 2 p.m., and June 11 and 22, at 10 a.m., the park sponsors "Beach Babies," for moms and/or dads to bring toddlers to explore the beach, hear a story and do a craft.

On Aug. 22, at 9 a.m. Sea Rim invites kids to come to the annual Kids Fishing Event, a fish clinic where the first 100 kids get a free rod and reel. On Sept. 26, the public is invited to Sea Rim for an Adopt-A-Beach event to clean the entire beach.

Cost to visit Sea Rim or participate in the fishing clinics is $3 for each person 13 and older. All kids under 13 are free.

For more information visit the Sea Rim State Park website at tpwd.texas. gov/state-parks/sea-rim or call to reserve a campsite or the cabin at 409.971.2559.

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kids' corner

Summer Fun at the Energy Museum

By Courtney Mleczewski Sandals, suntans and swimming pools... everything kids love about summer! Parents, however, are usu-

ally more concerned with finding activities to keep kids busy, out of trouble and if lucky, maybe even sneaking in something a little educational.

How about adding a little science to your summer? The Texas Energy Museum is doing just that! This summer the Energy Museum is putting together multiple opportunities to give kids hands-on experience with science in their everyday life.

The exhibit “Experimenting with Mirrors and Light” will run from June 9 through Sept. 1. During the interactive sessions, kids will be guided through activities designed to educate them on the science of light rays, reflection, refraction and how to manipulate light using mirrors.

“We’re really excited about the ac-

tivities that will show the kids how light moves,” said Ryan Smith, executive director of the Texas Energy Museum. “We’ll be lining up multiple mirrors angled across a table and bouncing a ray of light down the line.

It’s very fun to watch the kids see how the light moves.” The exhibit is free with museum admission. Please check the museum website for times.

“We’ll also be taking the museum on the road hosting two Bubble Days,” Smith said. “Toddlers love bubbles, and we’ll have 12 different stations where the kids can have some hands-on play with the bubbles.” The first Bubble Day will be Thursday June 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Northland Community Center, 3580 E. Lucas Drive in Beaumont. A second

festivals

Buu Mon Buddhist Temple Host Annual Festival

By Beth Gallaspy Rising above the murky waters where they flourish, lotus flowers have long symbolized purity and rebirth. Each June, Southeast Texans have the opportunity to enjoy hundreds of these beautiful blossoms when the Buu Mon Buddhist Temple opens to visitors for its annual Lotus Garden and Bamboo Festival.

This year’s festival is planned for June 6-7 at the Buu Mon Buddhist Temple, 2701 Procter St. in Port

Arthur. Grounds will open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day with a cultural celebration beginning inside the temple at 5 p.m. Saturday, June 6.

“We work in the garden to make our temple more beautiful year to year and contribute something good for the city,” said the Rev. Thi Guang, a monk at the temple.

The festival welcomes visitors to stroll through the spacious gardens filled with hardy lotuses, colorful water lilies, towering bamboo, productive citrus trees and lively koi ponds. Bring a camera and plan to capture striking images of the beauty of this Southeast Texas treasure.

Along with the elaborate gardens, visitors can enjoy tours of the temple, which opened in a former Baptist church in Port Arthur in 1987. On Saturday evening, festivities move inside the temple for a cultural celebration including food, music and traditional dances.

Admission is free, but don’t forget to bring cash for vendors selling crafts and delicious Vietnamese food.

For more information or to schedule a private garden tour by appointment, call 409.982.0319. If there is no answer, try again later. The monks are often busy in the garden, making it more beautiful day by day.

Bubble Day will be held Friday, July 10, also from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Rogers Park Community Center, Gladys Ave. at Dowlen Road in Beaumont. The Bubble Day events are free.

As always, the museum is filled with educational exhibits exploring the beginning of the Texas oil industry and its roots in our area. From the science of oil formation to the geology surrounding it, the museum’s interactive exhibits depict the unique history of oil exploration, production and refining. The museum is located at 600 Main St., Beaumont, and is open Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. Please check the museum’s website www. texasenergymuseum.org for more information and exhibit times.

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sports & recreation

One-of-a-Kind Physical Challenge: MOJO Southeast Texas’ premier obstacle-racing competition is back for individuals, teams and spectators. The MOJO Challenge will be at Nutty Jerry's Rodeo Arena, 18291 Englin Road in Winnie, Saturday, June 13, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Running is secondary to MOJO, which is a onemile course of obstacles, including challenges like the Texas Cake Walk, a series of inclined monkey bars with a hanging rope in the middle that transitions to declined monkey bars. Another unique obstacle is King Kong’s Playground, an overhead obstacle with large-frame Olympic rings that competitors swing to until they’ve advanced to the end.

Other tasks include carrying 30- to 40-pound sandbags and hurdling walls that vary from 5 to 15 feet, made more difficult if it’s muddy. Although MOJO is not a mud run, Mother Nature can dictate otherwise, and this is a rain or shine event.

“MOJO cuts out the long distance that’s intimidating but is still a fast-paced race for enthusiasts,” said Seth Slawson, MOJO organizer. “We want people to bring the entire family; this is a spectatorfriendly event, and there is plenty of seating in the rodeo arena.”

Heats will start at 8 a.m. with the competitive heats first and then open-timed heats for the rest of morning. In a free-for-all heat winners will divide up a $2,000 cash prize. The last heat of the day is for MOJO volunteers. A mini-course has been designed for kids ages 9 and up. A special MOJO mini-

course has been designed for children, ages 5 to 9.

Last year the fastest time for the elite runners’ division was 10 minutes, and Slawson thinks that will be a hard time to beat.

“Our course has a lot of obstacles in that one mile,” said Slawson. “Completing it in 10 minutes is going to be hard to beat.”

MOJO is a for profit event that benefits the Lone Survivor Foundation, which gives assistance to frontline military personnel transitioning to post-military life, whether wounded in combat or simply adjusting to the civilian sector. The organization helps America’s wounded service members and their families adjust to the effects of their military experiences.

After the race, participants and spectators can enjoy the Sponsor Expo. The Army is one of the major sponsors and will display military equipment, such as Hummer trucks, and further challenge attendees with physical competitions, like a pull-up contest. Army personnel will also be out on the course cheering participants on.

One of Southeast Texas’ favorite disc jockeys, Mark Guzman, will play music, and food, drinks and more will be provided “We just want people to come celebrate an active lifestyle and the impactful new sport of obstacle racing,” said Slawson.

For more information, contact Slawson at 409.920.5437 or email mojoslawson@yahoo.com.

COST: Competitive Heat $74 Timed Run $55 MOJO Mini Course $20 all-day pass Volunteers $20 Spectators FREE

SoutheastTexasEvents.com

health, wellness & education

Memory of Calder Project Runs On

The City of Beaumont Calder Drainage Project is a distant memory, but the event celebrating the June 2012 completion of the largest engineering project in the history of the city is a favorite June event. It’s the Calder Twilight 5K Run, this year Friday, June 12 at 7 p.m.

The family-friendly, closed-course race showcases the Calder Project completion and takes participants through historic Old Town, an area between McFaddin and Beech Streets and First and Eleventh Streets on the north and between Broadway and Smart and First, Fourth and Eleventh Streets to the south.

Coordinated with the help of the Sea Rim Striders, the chip-time 5K starts and ends at Rao’s Bakery on Calder at 10th Street and features an after, comeas-you-are, party at Luke’s at 2325 Calder. Chips must be picked up on race day from 6-6:45 p.m. Awards will be given for overall male, overall female and first, second and third place finishers in five-year age groups.

The route takes runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels east on Calder to the railroad tracks then back west to 8th Street to Gladys where runners take a left and go to 9th Street. At 9th Street they take a left and head back to Calder and Rao’s.

One of the featured “watering” stations on the run is located at Evalon and 9th Street where the Oaks Historic District Neighborhood Association offers the “Town Toddy” which is a secret recipe; only six people know how to concoct it. The key ingredient is Pimm’s Liquor, but previous partakers say it’s light and refreshing!

The Calder Drainage project started at the Neches River, actually on Elizabeth Street near Main Street, and ended at Phelan. The project lasted from April 2008 to June 2012, not including the design phase, which began in 2006.

The first Twilight Run was in June 2012 and was overwhelmingly supported. In 2013 more than 750 people attended; last year nearly 1,000 people participated.

To participate this year, get a reservation form and additional information at www.beaumonttexas.gov or pick up registration forms at Exygon, Basic Foods, On the Run and all City of Beaumont libraries. The cost is $25 and can be paid on race day beginning at 6 p.m. Packets can be picked up early on race day, Friday, June 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Beaumont Convention & Visitors Bureau, 505 Willow St. Parking for the race will be available at the Beaumont Tower lot with entry from Broadway Street.

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hobby time

Walk, Run, Volunteer…

Southeast Texas Running Groups are Here for You

By Brandi Dupuis Hensley, president Sea Rim Striders Trying to keep exercise in your routine? Look for a local run/walk group in your area! Running groups are crucial for keeping the running community connected on a consistent basis. They will keep you motivated, encourage you, cheer you on, acknowledge your accomplishments and make you feel like family.

When you are ready, find some free local events to get you started competing or at least challenging yourself to move. One such event series is held by the Sea Rim Striders Run club. The annual Summer Run/Walk Series is a great place to launch your walk/run lifestyle. This event series is free and open to the public, held 12 Mondays throughout the summer at different locations in Southeast Texas.

With this year’s summer series, the Sea Rim Striders is introducing a new program to help newbies integrate and stay with their routine – the Buddy Program.

The Buddy program was designed to ease the fear of joining a running group and will be available to all new walkers and runners who may need encouragement and introduction to the running community. Representatives from Southeast Texas running groups will be on standby to be a newbie’s buddy at all events. So if you’re new to the running community, just come to the membership table at any summer run event and request a buddy. Joining an exercise club can be intimidating, and this new program was created to make it easier to meet people and feel a part of the group.

The most misunderstood aspect of a running group is that it is crazed running people, only marathon runners. While some of the members are advanced runners, Sea Rim Striders, as well as the other walking/running clubs in Southeast Texas (listed below), welcomes all levels of fitness, from marathon and long-distance trail runners to walkers and families with strollers. Whatever level you are, you can be part of our runner family and find your speed.

When you feel confident, attend

some local 5K events! Many of these events benefit local charities, so not only do you achieve your goals of health and fitness, you also give back to your community. If you are not able to run or walk, local events can always use great volunteers.

Many local events are listed on the Sea Rim Striders website, www.searimstriders.org. For questions about the Sea Rim Striders Summer Series, email SRSclub.SummerSeries@gmail.com.

Southeast Texas

Walk/Run Clubs Mid-County Run Club 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Central Middle School track, Nederland Saturday mornings, Meadowgreen Park, Port Neches Contact: midcountyrunclub@gmail.com facebook.com/MidCountyRunClub?fref=ts

Mid-County

Summer Run Series June

Juan Direction Beaumont A small Filipino community that loves to run and encourage other Filipinos to join.

Times and places vary. facebook.com/groups/102368869866591/ Bridge City Runners Bridge City A place to post your planned runs and see who might want to run with you! facebook.com/groups/403366809795055/ Golden Triangle Strutters Beaumont 6:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays- meet in HEB parking lot and run/walk Delaware extension Contact: gtstrutters@gmail.com www.gtstrutters.com and facebook.com/GTSTRUTTERS?fref=ts Bearly Runners www.facebook.com/search/str/Bearly%20Runners/keywords_top Moms RUN This Town bridgecitymrtt@gmail.com

Bridge City

Slow and Steady Beaumont Slow and Steady is the pace at which lifestyle changes are best adapted by most people. Come join us as we slowly adapt to changes in daily activity. www.facebook.com/teamslowandsteady Sundays- Downtown Beaumont roads.

Tuesdays- Health and Wellness Center See Facebook for times and updates.

1 7 p.m. Hike & Bike Trail 8 6:30 p.m. Lumberton City Park 15 7 p.m. Tyrrell Park 22 7 p.m. Port Arthur Seawall 29 7 p.m. Hike & Bike Trail July 6 6:30 p.m. Lumberton City Park 13 7 p.m. Tyrrell Park 20 7 p.m. Port Arthur Seawall 27 7 p.m. Hike & Bike Trail August 3 6:30 p.m. Lumberton City Park 10 7 p.m. Tyrrell Park 17 7 p.m. Port Arthur Seawall

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free fun

gulls galore and so much more Who doesn’t love a boat ride? No matter how old you are, there is something spectacular about cruising over waves, creating a wake, watching the birds and feeling the wind in your face. The Port Bolivar or Galveston Ferry, the car taxi from Bolivar Peninsula to Galveston Island, is not just free transportation but a

joy ride for summer fun and family memory making.

The 18-minute ride is basically a 2.7-mile bridge of Texas Highway 87 operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The Texas Department of Transportation runs the multi-ferry service which includes two boats beginning at 6:30 a.m.; three during peak traffic times and up to five ferries during the summer and holiday traffic. Ferry lines can be long. The best way to avoid waiting is to follow the Galveston Ferry on Twitter.

Drive your car onto the ferry or just walk on and ride over and back. Either way take day-old bread, potato chips or leftover French fries, and feed the seagulls. So tame are these birds, they’ll eat from your hands. Ferry rules permit feeding at the back of the boat once launched from the dock.

Hold food straight up and wait for the birds to swoop or toss food in the air and watch them dive to retrieve it.

Kids love feeding birds from the ferry, spotting porpoise in the waters and eyeing the large brown pelicans that sit on the dock pylons.

It’s also thrilling to climb the ferry stairs and view the Peninsula and Galveston Island from above.

For the most fun, take sunscreen, wear hats and be prepared for bird droppings. Get more details 409.795.2230.

business & networking

Awards Banquet, Also a Roast

Press Club of Southeast Texas, A Night of Media Highlights Local journalists are expected to receive respect and a little razzing at this year’s Press Club of Southeast Texas banquet. The 24th Annual Excellence in the Media & Newsmaker of the Year Awards Banquet, June 5 at the MCM Elegante Hotel, is a night when the Press Club, a non-profit organization, recognizes outstanding

journalistic work and names a Newsmaker of the Year from five finalists while raising money for Lamar University scholarships. And, this year, for the first time, public officials have been invited to roast members of the media.

Beaumont Mayor Becky Ames, Hardin County District Attorney David Sheffield, BISD Board of Managers President Jimmy Simmons, Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick and Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce President Jim Rich will serve as emcees of the event adding their candid comments about media personalities.

The annual event also recognizes the top area newsmakers from Southeast Texas. This year’s list of Newsmaker of the Year candidates, most of whom are expected to be in attendance, were whittled down by a vote of the Press Club membership to include: • The Beaumont ISD board of managers, appointed by the state education commissioner to clean up the troubled school district.

• Jennifer Daniels and Shawn Hare, organizers of Beaumont’s first Pride parade in support of LGBT rights.

• Earl Thomas III, former West Orange-Stark football player, current member of the Seattle Seahawks, sponsor of many local charity efforts.

• Raquel West, the first woman elected to a district court judgeship in Jefferson County, surviving a

spirited primary, runoff and general election.

• Bob Wortham, who gave up a judge’s post to be elected Jefferson County district attorney, dominating a crowded ballot.

While all of these worthy candidates will be recognized for their work over the past year, only one will be selected as the 2014 Newsmaker of the Year by the Press Club of Southeast Texas.

Throughout the evening members of the media will be recognized for outstanding journalistic work completed in 2014 in the areas of broadcast, print and web in more than 100 specific categories.

More than 515 entries were submitted in March 2015 and judged by journalists across the country who chose the winners.

Proceeds from the banquet fund the Press Club Memorial Scholarship at Lamar University dedicated to deceased journalists and awarded annually to students in communication, journalism, mass communications, advertising, public relations or related fields.

The Press Club of Southeast Texas meets the third Thursday of every month at Café Del Rio at 11:30 a.m. Meetings are open to any member of the media, communications, public relations and advertising professionals and related fields.

For more information about the Press Club of Southeast Texas and to get tickets for the banquet, go to pressclubofsoutheasttexas.org.

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SoutheastTexas.com by the numbers

SoutheastTexas.com Wedding Headquarters Betrothed? Engage in SoutheastTexas.com before you shop for any wedding items.

SoutheastTexas.com classifieds has everything you need for your special day from the event venue to the cake to the limo service, dress, ring, decorations, photographer, makeup, disc jockey, caterer and flowers. Hundreds of classified ads with

descriptions and pictures are listed for local, wedding services and products.

There are several ways to find wedding products and services on SoutheastTexas.com. First, from the main “classifieds” page, type “wedding” into the space for “keyword search.” An entire list of classifieds with the word “wedding” in the description will appear. The second way to search for wedding related products and services is to select specific wedding-related categories from the “goods” dropdown menu. From the left-hand side dropdown where you’re invited to “Choose Category” select “Food,” “Food-Baked Goods,” “Jewelry,” “Party Supplies,” and “Wedding Items.” Then search “services” from the dropdown menu to the right. Try categories such as “Bakeries,” “Catering,” “Limousine,”

“Wedding Items,” and “Party Planning.”

If you’re planning a wedding, SoutheastTexas. com is your best resource to get started working with local vendors. And if you’re not planning a wedding and looking for a bride or a groom, SoutheastTexas.com has you covered there too – Singles Club is a tab at the top of SoutheastTexas. com with more than 17,000 singles!

The community is invited to place

one ad a month for FREE! Call for information, 409.832.9869

If you want to buy and sell local, YOUR best choice is SoutheastTexas.com.

Contact live support at www.southeasttexas.com/help/index2.cfm or call 409.832.9869, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

classified pick of the month

Planters are Husband-Easy, Wife-Approved

By Dominique Delgado Higher Ground Raised Beds is taking your garden to new heights while also keeping it lightweight, portable and environmentally friendly.

Jason Christian and his business partner, Gage Coldwater, build and sell quality raised garden beds and ladder planters customized to suit anyone’s landscape needs. What’s so unique about Higher Grounds Raised Beds? They’re made of metal and wood. The sides of the beds are made of hot-dipped galvanized steel or corrugated metal siding and Lifewood and Prowood. The metal is lightweight, making the beds easy to move, and the wood is environmentally friendly without preservatives.

“With the corrugated metal siding on the side of the boxes, they are sturdy but lightweight,” said Christian, a corrosion expert by day. “You can pick them up and move them anywhere. Plus they’re tall so you don’t have to get on your hands and knees to pull weeds, which is why we started making them, to save our backs.”

Christian and Coldwater also make ladder planters out of western red cedar. Christian says these

planters are perfect for shallow root plants, like herbs, marigolds, mint, chives and more. They come in varying sizes and heights.

Planters to be placed on the ground are open at the bottom to the earth below. Christian suggests putting cardboard underneath them between the planter and the ground. Taller planters have holes for water drainage as do the ladder planters.

“People put loose paper in the bottom of these planters and then poke holes to keep the dirt in but let the water drain,” said Christian. “For our sometimes heavy rainfall times in Southeast Texas, this acts as a strainer.”

Higher Grounds Raised Beds standard-sized boxes are either 13 inches tall or 26 inches tall and vary in price depending on width from $119 to $219. Ladder planters range between $49 and $109 based on the number of planters and the width. All orders can be customized as well.

“We deliver anywhere in the Golden Triangle for $25 no matter if you have one planter or three,” said Christian. “See, these beds are husband-easy and wife-approved.”

To get more information or to order a planter, contact Christian at 832.457.4724 or visit Higher Ground Raised Beds at www.highergroundraisedbeds.com.

Are you a Southeast Texas artisan who advertises on SoutheastTexas.com?

Contact us to be featured in this section. Call 409.201.9934 or email shelly@southeasttexas.com.

SoutheastTexasEvents.com

sneak peek july Relax with the Reoccurring First Thursdays on Calder is July 2 and the first Thursday indefinitely. The hub of eating, shopping and entertainment is the Mildred Building at Calder and MLK Boulevard, but shops and restaurants up and down Calder from 11th Street to Pine, including Edison Plaza, stay open late. Every Saturday the Beaumont Farmer’s Market bell rings at 8 a.m. opening business for local, fresh produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, honey and more.

Don’t miss it at the Langham Athletic Complex.

Also on Saturdays at 10 a.m. through November the Ivory Bill departs from Riverfront Park in downtown Beaumont for a tour of the Neches River. The Big Thicket Association operates these educational and scenic tours with a capacity of 30 each Saturday.

Star Spangled Celebration Red, white and blue celebration will be happening all over Southeast Texas. The City of Beaumont will throw its traditional Riverfront event with music, food vendors and fireworks, and the Symphony of Southeast Texas will put on a patriotic concert in the Julie Rogers Theater.

Summer Thespians After auditions, practices, set design, practices and more practices the kids of Kidmunity, the Beaumont Community Players summer theater camps, will perform. July 2 and 3 at 7 p.m. enjoy “The Grunch;” July 9 and 10 the young thespians perform “The Little Mermaid, Jr.” and on July 23, 24 and 25, the summer theater productions culminate with “The Pajama Game.”

Friday Favorite Classic Movie Nights at the Jefferson Theater have quickly become everyone’s favorite. On Fridays in July see “Top Gun” on July 3; “Raging Bull” on July 10; “The Lost Boys” on July 17 and “El Mariachi” on July 24.

Kid Kicks With kids out of school, lots of special events are planned just for them like Art-to-Go with the Art Museum of Southeast Texas at the Elmo Willard Library, July 9, followed by the Texas Energy Museum’s Bubble Day at Rogers Park Community Center the very next day, July 10. Also in Rogers Park on July 18, kiddos and parents can enjoy a movie together at dusk. The featured show – “Babe the Gallant Pig.” At month’s end go east to Orange for Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center’s Up Close with Nature, July 25. You’ll meet live critters! And then on July 31 the Stark Museum of Art is hosting a playdate.

Exercise Some Purchase Power… …at Orange Trade Days in downtown Orange July 17, 18 and 19 and Kountze Big Thicket Trade Days July 24, 25 and 26. Men and women will shop together and like it at the Peddler Show and the Southeast Texas Great Outdoors Expo at Ford Park, July 24, 25 and 26.

See all of these events and more at southeasttexasevents.com.

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event listings WEEKLY MONDAYS 11:30 AM Intentional Eating Group Class, Nutrition Solutions, 409.454.0417 6:00 PM Anger Management for Men, Family Services Counseling Center, 409.833.2668 TUESDAYS 12:00 PM Great Speakers Unlimited (GSU) Toastmasters, Nutrition Solutions, 409.659.3559 12:00 PM Toastmasters International Great Speakers Unlimited, Health & Wellness Center Meeting, 409.659.3559 5:30 PM Free Community Yoga, Miller Library, 409.866.9487 WEDNESDAYS 9:30 AM Wild Wednesday, Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, 409.670.9113 6:30 PM West Coast Swing lessons, St. Anne Catholic school cafeteria, 409.658.4884 FRIDAYS 6:30 PM West Coast Swing lessons, St. Anne Catholic school cafeteria, 409.658.4884 SATURDAYS 8:00 AM Beaumont Farmers Market, Langham Municipal Athletic Complex 10:00 AM Neches River Adventures, Riverfront Park, 409.651.5326 3 11:00 AM Critiquing & Self-Publishing, Miller Library, 409.866.9487

4 5:00 PM First Thursdays on Calder, Mildred Building 5:30 PM Heritage Happy Hour -The Chambers House Museum, Chambers House Museum, 409.832.4010 6:00 PM Classic Movie Nights: Ghostbusters, Jefferson Theatre, 409. 838.3435 7:00 PM Nederland High School Graduation, Ford Park, 409.951.5440 5, 6 & 7 8:00 AM Larry’s Old Time Trade Days, 14902 FM 1663 Road, 409.296.3300 5 10:00 AM ARC of Greater Beaumont Mom's Talk, S.T.A.R.S. Pediatric Center, 409.838.9012 6:30 PM West Coast Swing lessons, St. Anne Catholic school cafeteria, 409.658.4884 7:00 PM USFA State Tournament, Ford Fields, 409.951.5440 7:00 PM Hamshire-Fannett Graduation, Ford Park, 409.951.5440 6&7 8:00 AM Buu Mon Garden Festival, Buu Mon Buddhist Temple, 409.673.6625 8:00 AM USFA State Tournament, Ford Fields, 409.951.5440 6 7:00 AM Spindletop Spin, Event Centre, 409.839.2332

7 4:00 PM The Arc Autism Support Group Meeting, The Foundation for Southeast Texas Building, 409.838.9012 8 3:00 PM LIT Fall Orientation, Lamar Institute of Technology, 409.880.8321 6:00 PM Texas Gulf Coast Writers Association, Miller Library, 409.866.9487 9 8:00 AM Breakthrough Basketball Camp, Vidor High School gym, 409.533.6779 6:00 PM Men Against Cancer: Prostate Cancer Support Group, St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 409.833.3663 11 10:30 AM Storyteller, Ricky Pittman, Elmo Willard Library, 409.892.4988 6:00 PM Neuroscience Lecture Series, Kirby-Hill House, 409.246.8000 6:00 PM Classic Movie Nights: Caddyshack, Jefferson Theatre, 409.838.3435 12, 13 & 14 5:00 PM Bill Pickett Trail Riders Annual Trail Ride, Zydeco Festival and Rodeo, LaDay’s Arena, 832.398.1425.

12 9:00 AM Orange Trade Days, Downtown Orange, 409.883.4344 7:00 PM Calder Twilight 5K Run/Walk, Rao's Bakery, 409.838.3613, Ext. 1213

13 8:00 AM Bringing Back Memories Car Show, Crockett Street Entertainment District, 409.833.0504 8:00 AM Breakfast with the Bishop, St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 409.924.4400 8:00 AM MOJO Challenge, Nutty Jerry's Rodeo Arena, 409.920.5437 9:00 AM Pride Parade, Event Centre, www.Beaumont-Pride.org 9:00 AM Jefferson County Fruit and Vegetable Show, Central Mall, Port Arthur, 409.835.8461 10:30 AM Paper Making Workshop, Stark Museum of 409.886.2787 4:00 PM Skate Plaza Concert, Beautiful Mountain Skate Plaza, 409.838.3435 6:00 PM Spindletop Roller Girls vs. Magnolia Roller Vixens, Beaumont Civic Center, 409.838.3435 7:00 PM Jamal Charles Homecoming Roast, Carl A. Parker Multipurpose Center, Port Arthur 409.984.6262 7:30 PM City of Beaumont Movies in the Park: Muppets Most Wanted, Wuthering Heights Park, 409.838.3613 7:30 PM Kirbyville Country Music Festival, Palace Theater, Kirbyville, 409.423.3319 13 & 14 8:00 AM Downtown Beaumont Junk Days, BAW RESALE and Interiors, 786.209.9712 13, 14 & 15 9:00 AM Orange Trade Days, Downtown Orange, 409.883.4344

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cartoon corner

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2:00 PM Temple to the Brave Open sponsored by the Col. George Moffet Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, 409.880.1713.

18 10:00 AM Texas Energy Museum Bubble Day, Northend Community Center, 409.833.5100 11:30 AM Press Club of Southeast Texas Meeting, Cafe Del Rio, pressclubofsoutheasttexas.org 12:00 PM Pink Power Network: Girl Talk with an Expert, Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas - Cancer Center, 409.833.3663 6:00 PM Pink Power Network: Girl Talk with an Expert, Julie Rogers Gift of Life Program, 409.833.3663

8:00 AM Juneteenth Celebrations, Downtown Port Arthur, 409.332.9105 10:00 AM ARC of Greater Beaumont Mom's Talk, S.T.A.R.S. Pediatric Center, 409.838.9012 6:00 PM Classic Movie Nights: Jaws, Jefferson Theatre, 409. 838.3435 20 12:00 PM JJ Caillier and The Zydeco Knock Outs, Bassett Ranch, 409.434.1361 2:00 PM City of Beaumont: Neighbors & Concerts in the Park - Juneteenth Celebration, Tyrrell Park, 409.838.3613 21

FLAG DAY

Juneteenth Day

Father's day

25 10:30 AM Beaumont Animal Sciences, Elmo Willard Library, 409.892.4988 7:00 PM Kidmunity 2015: Bugz, Betty Greenberg for Performing Arts, 409.833.4664 26, 27 & 28 8:00 AM Kountze Big Thicket Trade Days, Kountze Trade Days Grounds, 409.880.5667 26 12:00 PM Women in Networking (WIN), Nutrition Solutions, 409.454.0417 6:00 PM Classic Movie Nights: Frida, Jefferson Theatre, 409. 838.3435 7:00 PM Kidmunity 2015: Bugz, Betty Greenberg for Performing Arts, 409.833.4664

27 2:00 PM Up Close with Nature, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 409.670.9799 29 6:00 PM Alzheimer's Support Group Calder Woods Senior Living, Calder Woods in the Library, 409.861.1123 7:30 PM Beaumont HAM Radio Club, North End Baptist Church, mech5@gt.rr.com 6:45 PM Monday at the Museum, McFaddinWard House, 409.832.1906

For more events, go to southeasttexasevents.com.

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final photo

Blue Snow Cone & Dad

“Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him father.�

Lydia Maria Francis Child

Kaylee Robinson with her dad, Casey Robinson, on the merry-go-round at the Texas Crab Festival.

Photo by Shelly Vitanza

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