Jan. 4-10, 2024

Normand Dickenson

Perkins

Cole

Naymola

We stand with Israel

And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.

II Kings 6:16-17

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2022 crash claims continue into 2024

Billionaire bows out of court appearances in 2023

By Jennifer Johnson Managing Editor

Now going on two years since a Texas-based billionaire was cited for drunkenly crashing into a half-dozen vehicles on a busy street in front of a west end Beaumont middle school, defendant Walter Eugene “Loddie” Naymola has yet to be seen inside of a Jefferson County courtroom. Throughout 2022 and 2023, Naymola was scheduled to appear in the Criminal District Court yet, time and time again, dockets ended without a sighting of the defendant. Scheduled again for “announcement” on

Jan. 18, Naymola may – or may not –finally be called to answer in 2024 for the 2022 crash that one man claims cost the life of his unborn child.

Airborne ‘4HORN’

June 22, 2022, motorist Tiffany Barnaby, 21 years old at the time, approached the intersection of Gladys and Dowlen roads in Beaumont when her life was forever changed. In a court filing against Naymola, as well as the global National Tank & Equipment (NTE) and “4 Horn” companies he commands ownership of, Barnaby alleged that the billionaire was driving a work truck when he drunkenly plowed over her vehicle and five others.

“Suddenly and without warning,” Barnaby’s claim against Naymola and his companies reads, “defendant Naymola failed to control his speed and

violently crashed into the back of plaintiff’s vehicle.”

According to Barnaby’s account, she suffered “severe personal injuries” as a result of Naymola’s actions, and she was seeking in excess of $1 million in retribution for medical expenses, future medical expenses, pain and suffering now and in the future, loss of earnings in the past and future earning capacity, physical impairment, physical disfigurement, mental anguish, the loss of her vehicle, and attorney fees.

Several others impacted by Naymola’s drunk driving that June lunchtime in 2022 filed claims against the billionaire, as well, Carlos Zunigo Castillo et al claiming “severe and disabling injuries” including neck, back and internal organ damage, and Matthew Esthay et al further asserting that Naymola “was unable to safely drive and operate a motor vehicle,” and administrators of National Tank & Equipment and 4 Horn “knew, or in the exercise of ordinary care should have known, of such recklessness, incompetence, unfitness and/or lack of qualification.”

A pair of law enforcement crash reports covering the crash detailed Naymola’s blue 2021 Dodge Ram 1500, with a license plate reading “4HORN,” as beginning on a path of peril prior to hitting Barnaby’s car and causing a pileup six-vehicles deep.

Beaumont Police Department Officer Stewart Hanley reported that, on June 22, 2022, a witness called the police station to report that a blue truck bearing Texas license plates “4HORN” was seen driving erratically just moments before Naymola crashed into Barnaby.

“It left the roadway and struck some trees, shrubs and a sprinkler system,” the witness said of Naymola’s driving on his way to the Gladys and Dowlen

intersection at 12:55 p.m. “It then traversed through the parking lot and then onto the street in the 300 block of Dowlen Road.

“It crossed the two lanes of traffic before striking a metal light pole.”

A few minutes later, the driver of the truck bearing “4HORN” license plates was again the subject of a call to police – many calls to police, actually. The second BPD report regarding the six-car accident at the intersection of Dowlen and Gladys reports that witnesses saw Naymola’s vanity-plated “4HORN” truck barreling down Dowlen “at a high rate of speed” when he drove into the southbound lanes at the Westgate intersection “to get around traffic.”

Instead of clearing traffic, witnesses advised, Naymola slammed into Barnaby’s vehicle “and became airborne,” prompting a chain-reaction of collisions that left eight injured as reported at the scene of the crash, including several children. Officers at the scene listed “intoxication assault – citation number (2022-12357)” as a pending charge for Naymola but, due to his reported injuries, the billionaire was taken to the hospital rather than jail.

In August 2022, Naymola was indicted on three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.After reporting to the jail and posting immediate bond, Naymola has not been seen in court since.

Fatality alleged after the fact

February 2023, Dezman Parkerson was called before the Criminal District Court that is also the court of jurisdiction for Naymola’s pending felonies. Parkerson, who had been on probation for over a decade for robbing a

Photos by Jerome Cabeen

Naymola

convenience store with a BB gun in 2010, pleaded with the court for mercy in allowing more time to pay off debts attributed to the prior bad act.According to Parkerson, his life took a downturn the day Naymola rammed into a car carrying the mother of his unborn child.

“I’m in a bad state right now,” Parkerson said, going into detail as to how Naymola’s drunken driving on June 22, 2022 detrimentally derailed the expectant father’s life and took the life of his baby. Among the victims taken to the hospital that day was Parkerson’s pregnant girlfriend/common law wife, he said. The mother, badly injured due to the collision, was taken to the hospital where the couple’s child was born premature.

“She was born two months early,” Parkerson explained of his daughter’s death. “They gave her a second blood transfusion and she ended up dying. She only stayed alive for 12 days.”

Adding further to the tragedy, the billionaire’s actions impacted a family without the means to afford a proper burial for the deceased infant: “So,” Parkerson sighed, “we ended up having to get my daughter cremated because we didn’t have enough money to bury her.”

Parkerson added that he left work to be at the hospital, which further compounded the financial despair he was experiencing, and his only vehicle, the truck the mother of his child was driving when Naymola crashed into her, was a total loss.

“We haven’t heard anything else back about it,” Parkerson said, but added that, “I can’t even afford to pay my phone bill,” so there could have been calls missed, however.

Assistant District Attorney Pat Knauth said the prosecution office attempted to confirm Parkerson’s allegation – to no avail. According to Knauth, the alleged car crash victim was uncooperative when contacted concerning Parkerson’s statements and had not previously reported any injury.

Parties seek payouts

Several individuals involved in the accident filed suit against Naymola and his companies seeking to recover damages for their injuries, consolidated collectively as the Barnaby Lawsuit; Parkerson is not among them.

June 28, 2022, Tiffany Barnaby filed suit against National Tank & Equipment, LLC; 4-Horn Investments, LP; 4-Horn Industrial, LLC; and Walter

Naymola.

July 8, 2022, Carlos Zuniga Castillo and Karla Ho, as next friend of KH, a minor, filed a petition in intervention in the Barnaby Lawsuit against National Tank&Equipment,LLC;4-HornInvestments, LP; 4-Horn Industrial, LLC; and Walter Naymola.

July 11, 2022, Matthew and Alexa Esthay, both individually and as next friend of minors H.E. and N.E., filed a petition in intervention in the Barnaby Suit.

A year to the day after Barnaby filed suit against Naymola, the National Tank & Equipment owner settled with the company’s insurance provider for an undisclosed agreement that made the federal civil lawsuit seeking to force the insurance provider to cover damages “moot,” as recorded by District Judge Michael J. Truncale.

Records from Jefferson County show Barnaby’s suit for damages as still pending, given the cause number “B-0209996,” in Judge Justin Sanderson’s 60th District Court. However, information from the 60th District Court shows that all matters settled outside of a judge or jury two days prior to Naymola settling with his insurance carrier.

Joshua B. Baker and Carlos R. Soltero, attorneys for Berkley National Insurance Company (BNIC), Naymola’s insurance carrier, had argued up until the secret settlement that Naymola was advised of his insurance denying coverage as of Oct. 5, 2022, when a denial letter was sent that “speaks for itself,” even though the insurance carrier later agreed to defend Naymola in civil cases

brought by victims of the Beaumont wreck “under a reservation of rights, while maintaining its position that no defense or indemnity is owed.”

Attorneys for the insurance company pleaded that coverage for Naymola’s claims were barred because the policy excludes coverage for the National Tank

& Equipment (NTE) truck that Naymola was driving at least, in part, because: “At the time of the accident, (Naymola), an NTE employee and co-owner, was intoxicated and driving a vehicle owned by NTE.”

Referencing the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report that showed Naymola was cited for intoxication assault, the insurance attorneys proffered that, “NTE requires that drivers of its company vehicles comply with NTE’s vehicle and driving safety policies,” that provide, “among other things, that all company vehicles must be operated in accordance with applicable laws, and expressly prohibit drivers from operating company vehicles while impaired and/or under the influence of alcohol.”

Not settled

Knauth said that the status of civil lawsuits bears no relationship to the pending criminal matters. According to Knauth, no deal has been reached with Naymola to preclude prosecution of the indicted crimes.

“Right now, we’re ready for trial,” Knauth said as of Jan. 3. “There is no plea deal.”

Alleged Jefferson County murderers on bond

By Barbara Davis Staff Reporter

Among 63 individuals facing murder charges within Jefferson County, a trio of accused killers remain out on bond, one in excess of a year.

Jaye Vincent Normand, who happens to share the same last name as a local attorney, remains free on a $100,000 bond since admitting to shooting Corry Demarcus Beckett on July 29, 2022, and leaving him dying on the pavement of the Shell gas station at State Highway 105 and Major Drive while he went home to bring snacks to his children.

Normand’s bond, as for most murder suspects in Jefferson County, was initiallysetat$1millionbyJusticeofthePeace Ben Collins. According to the judge, the bond was lowered after the elected official received a letter from the murder suspect’s attorney, asking for a bond reduction. The Examiner, after some back and forth with staff from Collins’ office, acquired the letter requesting Normand’s bond reduction. In an email sent July 30, attorney Wendell C. Radford Jr. urged the judge to reconsider the stiff bail, in part, since Normand “comes from a respected family in the community,” that of Radford’s co-counsel and local politicalphilanthropistMarshaNormand. Normand is scheduled on Judge John

Stevens’ Criminal District Court announcement docket for Jan. 18.

Carron Joseph Dickenson Jr. posted a $200,000 bond on June 21, 2023, after being arrested as a suspect in the Sept. 21, 2022, robbery and shootout that led to themurderof20-year-oldBeaumontman RandleCormier.Dickensonisalsoscheduled on Judge Stevens’ Criminal District Court announcement docket for Jan. 18. Out on a $75,000 bond since November 5, 2022, Mychelle R. Cole is sched-

uled for a trial hearing before Judge Stevens’ Criminal District Court on Jan. 22. Cole admitted to manslaughter for her alleged role in the murder of 31-year-old Isaiah Brandon Wagner, of Beaumont, and was released on a reduced bond in return for full cooperation in the pending prosecution. Wagner’s body was found on the side of the Beaumont Heights Apartment Complex at the corner of Dowlen Road and Phelan Boulevard on Jan. 29, 2022.

Cole’s co-defendant, Kedrain Perkins, was identified as the shooter in a shooting a week prior in an attempt on Wagner’s life. In addition to being the alleged gunman in Wagner’s death, Perkins is also facing prosecution for the New Year’s Day 2022 death of Felton Jones. Perkins remains in custody at the Jefferson County Jail and is set for a trial hearing before Judge Stevens’ Criminal District Court on Feb. 5.

Normand

Dickenson Cole

Beaumont PD raids game room, charges pending

Jan. 3, at 11 a.m., detectives with the Beaumont Police Department Special Services Division, Special Assignment Unit and SWAT were assisted by Beaumont Fire Department investigators in executing a search warrant at a game room located in the 8000 block of College St.

“This search warrant was a result of an investigation into promotion of gambling,” BPD reported. “After SWAT made entry and secured the location, SSD personnel searched the business and interviewed all patrons and suspects on scene.”

The search of the business reportedly yielded varied evidence of promotion of gambling and U.S. currency that is believed to be proceeds of the illegal gambling organization. In addition, a patron was found to be in possession of a handgun. No arrests were announced and pending charges will reportedly include engaging in organized criminal activity (promotion of gambling) and unlawful possession of firearm by a felon.

Standoff ends in suicide

A man reportedly died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after standoff with police on Dec. 27.

Officer Haley Morrow, spokesperson for the Beaumont Police Department (BPD), reported Lee Austin Senegal Jr. kidnapped a woman, drove her to Louisiana, then returned to Beaumont and barricaded himself in a home with two children inside.

BPD hostage negotiators began speaking with Senegal and were successful in getting Senegal to release the children. After more than two hours of negotiations, officers found the man inside the home on Broun, dead from a gunshot wound.

Morrow reported that the incident began about 1:25 a.m., when BPD responded to a residence in the 6700 block of Greenwood after a neighbor called in a disturbance. Morrow noted that the preliminary investigation revealed a family violence/aggravated kidnapping had occurred.

Officers determined the identity of the suspect and victim through previous call history. BPD further discov-

ered the suspect stole the victim’s vehicle during the kidnapping and officers began searching for the vehicle. At about 2:20 a.m., BPD officers were notified that the victim’s vehicle was spotted in Vinton, Louisiana.

According to Morrow, at 4:35 a.m., BPD received a 911 call from a residence in the 9600 block of Broun to report a man was inside the residence with a gun. When officers arrived at the home, they located the victim’s vehicle, the kidnapping victim and homeowner.

Police say both the kidnapping victim and homeowner were previously in relationships with the suspect.

Justice of the Peace Ben Collins Sr. ordered an autopsy.

No other information has been released as of press time.

New Orleans kidnap victim escapes to safety in Vidor

The Vidor Police Department (VPD) is investigating a case in which a woman was apparently kidnapped from Louisiana on Dec. 28.

VPD reported that, at 7:42 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 900 block of North Main Street after a caller informed police he was approached by a woman in a parking lot that asked him to call the police.

The victim stated she was kidnapped from a bar in New Orleans and was able to escape around North Main and the westbound feeder road along Interstate 10. She was transported to St. Elizabeth Hospital and listed in stable condition.

The suspect was last seen driving a white 2010 to 2015 Cadillac Escalade pickup with three Cadillac rims; the rim on the driver’s side was a spare tire with a black rim.

No other information was available at press time.

Promethazine and prescription pills found in overturned Chrysler

A 23-year-old woman was arrested by Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers following investigation of a single-car crash on County Road 4123, east of state Highway 87, near Deweyville.

Dec. 28, DPS reported a preliminary investigation indicated that the driver of a 2016 Chrysler passenger car traveling east at an unsafe speed on a loose gravel road lost control, causing the car to travel into the ditch and overturn. Troopers located suspected promethazine and prescription pills. The driver, Angel Sutton of Newton, was not injured but was placed under arrest for

two counts of possession of a dangerous drug, both misdemeanors. No further information was available at press time.

PAPD seeking information on shooting

The Port Arthur Police Department (PAPD) is searching for information regarding a shooting victim injured on Dec. 29 at 1:41 a.m., when officers responded to the 3800 block of Russell Drive in Groves and later determined the victim had been shot at Sabina Townhomes in the 4100 block of 39th Street in Port Arthur.

According to PAPD, video revealed two suspects armed with handguns ambushed a vehicle occupied by several juveniles. The suspects fired at the vehicle several times, seriously injuring one juvenile occupant. The suspects were seen fleeing the scene on foot in a northeasterly direction.

PAPD is asking everyone in that area to check security camera footage during the timeframe of Dec. 29 from 1:15 to 1:35 a.m. for anything suspicious.

Contact Crime Stoppers by calling 833-TIPS (8477), logging online at 833 TIPS.com or downloading the P3 TIPS App with any information; tipsters could be eligible for a cash reward and all tips remain anonymous.

Photo by Beaumont PD

Deadly New Year’s weekend in SETX

Six people killed in three separate incidents

By Dannie Oliveaux Staff Reporter

The old year went out and the new year came in, but not without deadly tragedies in Southeast Texas that left six dead and families and friends stunned.

During the New Year’s weekend, six people were killed in three separate incidents, including four in a reportedly apparent triple murder-suicide in Orange County.

Residents living along North 8th Street and vicinity in Orange woke up New Year’s Day to find out that four people, including a teenager, died from gunshot wounds.

According to information released by the Orange Police Department (OPD), officers were dispatched to 2406 North 8th St. at 7:50 a.m. regarding a shooting and found the bodies of four people inside the residence. Justice of the Peace Pct. 2 Chad Jenkins pronounced the four subjects deceased and ordered autopsies on each. The victims were identified as Bobby Kiel Jr., 53; Porsha Kiel, 34; Janiya Lewis, 17, all of Orange; and Lester Lewis Ray Jr., 33, of San Augustine.

Lester and Porsha Lewis, who were married, owned a single-family home on County Road 170 in SanAugustine since September 2021, according to San Augustine County Appraisal District records.

San Augustine County Sheriff Robert Cartwright said his deputies were called out a couple of times about disturbances at their home in the Roberts community, south of San Augustine. He said there were no arrests or charges filed.

OPD reported the Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the incident as a homicide with one of the victims as the possible gunman. Romona Barnes, the wife of Bobby Kiel, claimed on social media that her husband, daughter and granddaughter were murdered by Lester Lewis, but police have yet confirmed her allegations.

Sgt. Issac Henry III said more information will be released later but does not have specific time or date.

“However,” Henry added, “our investigation division is very thorough and will not rush when it comes to specific things.”

Kiel, a Kountze native, worked at International Paper, according to his social media account.

Janiya Lewis was a student at Little Cypress-Mauriceville High School in Orange.

Trail ride shootings

A large gathering for a “trail ride” on Bigner Road slowed down police and first responders after a shooting was reported on Dec. 30. Beaumont Police

Department (BPD) officers responded to the 6500 block of Bigner Road after a caller reported two victims were shot and lying near the West Beulah Baptist Church.

According to BPD, officers arrived and maneuvered through approximately 1,000 patrons attending the event. Because of the large amount of people, Beaumont EMS and patrol units could not reach the victims by automobile. Officers approached the victims on foot and carried the gunshot victims out of the “uncooperative crowd,” according to BPD.

One victim was taken to an awaiting Beaumont EMS unit and the other victim was transported to a local hospital by BPD patrol unit. A third gunshot victim arrived at a local hospital by private vehicle.

Shooting victim, Rodtravian Perry, 25, of Houston, was pronounced deceased; a second shooting victim was listed in critical condition; the third suffered nonlife-threatening injuries.

BPDrequestedamultiagencyresponse from local law enforcement to assist with clearing and securing the crime scene. Detectives believe there are numerous witnesses and possible cell phone video oftheincident,buttheyhavenotreceived any cooperation from witnesses on the scene.

BPD reported they received multiple calls for service throughout the night

about the “trail ride.”

According to Officer Haley Morrow, BPD public information officer, two additional gunshot victims were later reported, both having minor injuries.

During the initial response to the shootings, officers locatedTom Simpson, 26, who had an AR pistol in his waistband. Simpson was arrested for unlawfully carrying a weapon and the incident is believed to be separate from the shooting at this time, according to BPD.

Anyone with information about the triple shooting is asked to call BPD at (409) 832-1234 or submit a tip to Southeast Texas Crime Stoppers at (409) 833TIPS (8477).All Crime Stoppers tips are anonymous and callers may be eligible for a cash reward.

Store clerk killed

BPD reported one suspect was arrested and another suspect is at large in the Dec. 29 shooting death of a store clerk at Kris Food Mart, 3090 Gulf Ave.

BPD responded to the convenience store at 10:09 p.m. regarding a shooting victim and discovered the store clerk dead from gunshot wounds. Preliminary investigation revealed two suspects entered the store and robbed the clerk at gunpoint. One suspect shot and killed the clerk, before stealing cigarettes and fleeing on foot.

The clerk was identified as Sheikh

Abir-Hossain, 34, of Beaumont.

According to BPD, officers working off of multiple Crime Stoppers tips identified Keandre Marquis Robinson, 19, of Beaumont, as one of the suspects.

Pct. 1 Place 1 Justice of the Peace Naomi Doyle issued the murder warrant and set bond at $800,000 for Robinson.Three hours later, Robinson was arrested. BPD reported Robinson allegedly shot and killed the clerk during the aggravated robbery.

Jan. 2, a murder warrant was issued by Doyle for the second suspect, Larry Nathaniel Hagan, 26, of Needville, who has ties to Beaumont. His bond was set at $1 million.

Hagan, who was still at large at press time, was believed to wearing a black hoodie with “NERD” printed on it and armed with a handgun, according to surveillance video obtained by detectives.

A GoFundMe account organized by the Bangladesh Student Association (BSA) at Lamar University for AbirHossainstatedsurvivorsincludehiswife, a 2-year-old daughter and his mother. BSA also stated that Abir-Hossain was pursuing his dreams at Lamar University.

Facebook photos

Three of the bodies found inside an Orange home belong to (left to right) Bobby Kiel, Janiya Lewis, and Porsha Kiel.

Robinson

Sheikh Abir-Hossain (left) was shot and killed during a robbery at Kris Food Mart.

Courts approve grant applications

The Hardin County Commissioners Court approved for three departments to apply for grants through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts to provide offices in eligible rural counties professional law enforcement and legal representation, pursuant to Senate Bill 22.

The court approved the sheriff, district attorney, and county attorney to apply for the grants.

Senate Bill 22, passed in June, created grant programs to provide financial assistance to qualified sheriff offices, constable offices, and prosecutor offices in rural counties.

Rural counties with populations between 35,000 to 500,000 residents

could receive $500,000 in additional funding. Counties with populations between 20,000 to 50,000 residents could receive $350,000; and counties with less than 20,000 residents could receive $250,000.

Sheriff Mark Davis said the money canbeusedforraisingsalaries,improvement to vehicles, firearms or safety equipment.

District Attorney Rebecca Walton stated the grant can be used in her office for increasing salaries or for creating new positions.

Pre-Christmas crashes involve local residents

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported two crashes on Hardin County roads leading into the holiday.

CLASSROOM VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

According to Sgt. Shana Clark, DPS spokesperson, a Silsbee woman was seriously injured in a Dec. 21 rollover wreck between the Mt. Union and Spurger communities. It happened shortly before 8 p.m. on FM 1013 at the Neches River, just inside Jasper County.

Clark noted Lacey McLendon, 31, was driving a 2017 Lexus SUV eastbound when the vehicle left the highway and then flipped over multiple times. She was flown from the scene by medical helicopter to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont.

DPS reported a two-vehicle collision on U.S. 69 in Hardin County, near Kountze, on Dec. 18.

DPS reported the preliminary crash investigation indicates that at approximately 6:05 p.m., a Ford F-150 towing a travel trailer was traveling south, followed by a Freightliner truck. It is reported the Ford slowed to make a right turn into a private drive and was struck in the rear by the Freightliner.

The driver of the Freightliner, Kenneth Jones, 42, of Beaumont, was treated on scene and the driver of the Ford, Joshua Hare, 51, of Kountze, was not injured.

There is no further information on the crashes were available at press time.

City hosting blood drive Jan. 4

The city of PortArthur and LifeShare Blood Center are partnering for a community blood drive to help citizens and families with life-saving blood donations on Thursday, Jan. 4, beginning at noon.

A LifeShare mobile unit will be parked in the City Hall parking lot.

PAHD reports 30 COVID cases

The Port Arthur Health Department (PAHD) reported 30 COVID-19 positive cases from Dec. 21-28. The vaccination clinic is open at the Texas Artists Museum, 3501 Cultural Center Dr. in Port Arthur, across from the Civic Center.

The clinic is open daily, from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Contact the PAHD for any questions about vaccinations at (409) 983-8800 or (409) 983-8832.

PAPD: ‘His fight is our fight’

Dec. 23, members of Guns and Hoses, Port Arthur Police Association, Port Arthur Blue Santa, Port Arthur Police Department (especially Telecommunications Operators), and others participated in an event atWal-Mart, 8585 U.S. 69, Port Arthur, in support of Telecommunications Operator Ralph Odom. Odom and family offered gratitude for the overwhelming response from residents of Port Arthur, Nederland, Port

Hardin County Pct. 3 Deputy Constable Kolin Burmaster, courtesy Hardin County Pct. 3 Constable Trey Brothers

Neches, Groves and surrounding communities.

Train hits truck in Evadale

A Newton County log truck driver reportedly ignored activated railroad crossing signals and his fully loaded log truck was hit by a train in Evadale shortly after 10 a.m. Jan. 2, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Sgt. Shana Clark, DPS spokesperson, reported Donavin Rosemon, 31, of Bon Wier, was driving a 1989 Freightliner southbound on FM 1131 when he came upon the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe railroad tracks.

Clark stated Rosemon disregarded the railroad signals and his truck was hit by a westbound Rio Grande Pacific train, which split the semi-truck in half and scattered the truck’s load of logs. Roseman nor any of the train crew was injured.

Work crews worked most of the day cleaning up debris off the track and roadway.

Elderly man found dead in house fire

An elderly man was found dead in a house fire on Dec. 27, 2023 in Beaumont, reported Beaumont Fire Rescue Captain Otis Brooks.

Beaumont Fire Rescue Station No. 3 and Beaumont Police Department officers responded to the fire about 11:45 p.m. in the 2400 block of Amarillo Street, and found heavy smoke and flames were coming from the home.

Jefferson County Pct. 6 Justice of the Peace Judge Ransom Jones pronounced the victim dead at the scene and ordered an autopsy.

The victim was identified as 93-yearold Lawrence Teal Jr.

Single-car crash injures three

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigated a crash on Bragg Road, south of FM 1293, that injured three people on Dec. 28, 2023.

According to Sgt. Shana Clark DPS spokesperson, the preliminary crash investigation indicated that, at 3:55 a.m., the driver of a 2008 Hyundai Elantra traveling north at a high rate of speed lost control, causing the vehicle to leave the road strike several small trees.

The driver, Phillip Foster, 23, of Vidor, was transported to HCA Kingwood Hospital for treatment of non-lifethreatening injuries. Foster’s passengers, Jazmin Alvarez, 19, and Clayton West, 25, were both transported to St. Elizabeth Hospital for treatment of nonlife-threatening injuries.

Hunter education class for NISD students

The Nederland Police Department will host a hunter’s education class for Nederland ISD students, grades 5-12, on Monday, Jan. 15, in the cafeteria at C.O. Wilson Middle School, 2620 Helena Ave. The cost of the class is $15 and will be paid in cash at the start of class.

There are only 25 seats available to be filled on a first-come/first-served basis through the Texas Parks and Wildlife online registration system.

Parents need to contact School Resource Officer Washburn at dwashburn@nederlandisd.org to receive information on registering their students for the class.

Do not show up for the class without first reserving a seat.

Blossoming Beaumont

Parks and

Greenspace aims to combat hunger

As the pages of the calendar turn and the canvas of a new year unfolds, Kenneth Raggette, the director of Parks and Greenspace for the city of Beaumont, is not only welcoming the promise of a fresh start but is also delighted to witness the tangible progress made in realizing the goals set forth for his department.

In a recent initiative aimed at fostering a healthier and more sustainable community, the Parks and Greenspace team embarked on a transformative project. The focus was on addressing the issue of food deserts within the city, and their strategy involved the strategic planting of numerous fruit-bearing trees throughout various parks.

Last week marked the commencement of this endeavor, as Parks and Greenspace employees diligently planted a variety of fruit trees across different locations. Sprott Park, formerly known as Pear Orchard, saw the addition of a dozen pear trees, while Charlton Pollard Park welcomed 12 fig trees, and Rogers Park was adorned with a dozen peach trees. Looking ahead, Raggette outlined his plans to introduce a dozen citrus trees at Klein Park in late February or March, strategically aligning with prime planting season.

“The goal is to plant a variety of trees at each park each year so that, eventually, every park will boast its own flourishing orchard,” emphasized Raggette, underscoring the long-term vision of the initiative.

Beyond the mere act of tree planting, the conscientious approach extended to the creation of expansive 6 by 6 feet beds surrounding each tree. This design allows for future expansion, with the team gearing up for the addition of vining vegetables and fruits in spring. The envisioned result is a harmonious integration of fruit-bearing trees and edible crops, contributing to a holistic and sustainable urban ecosystem.

Raggette shared his optimism about the project’s timeline, expressing confidence that the fruit-bearing trees will yield abundance within the next 2 to 3 years. He envisions a future where these meticulously planned orchards become a reliable source of fresh and locally grown produce for the citizens of Beaumont.

“As these initiatives take root and blossom, we anticipate an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables being readily available to our citizens in the years to come,” Raggette affirmed, radiating enthusiasm for the positive impact this green initiative will have on the community’s well-being.

— Barbara Davis, Staff Reporter

City of Beaumont photo City workers with the Parks and Greenspace department plant dozens of trees at area parks.

New year resolution

Resolve to make a difference in 2024

Red Cross

As the time for making New Year’s resolutions grows closer, the American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, asks Southeast Texans to make a difference by becoming a volunteer in 2024.

“We’re seeing both the frequency and intensity of disasters increase due to extreme weather,” said Shawn Schulze, Interim CEO, Texas Gulf Coast Region, Red Cross. “Across the country, the Red Cross is responding to nearly twice as many large disasters as we did a decade ago to help people. This uptick in responses means we need more volunteers. The need to help has never been greater.”

Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to sign up for opportunities with the Texas Gulf Coast Region. Disaster-related volunteer roles include Disaster Action Team, Disaster Recovery Care, and Disaster Mental Health.

The Salvation Army

“While the bells are no longer ring-

ing at the red kettles around town, The Salvation Army annual fundraising campaign continues,” said Major Ken Fagan of The Salvation Army. “From providing shelter to those experiencing homelessness, meals for the hungry, and emergency financial assistance to individuals and families in crisis, your gift will keep on giving and provide essential dollars to support the yearround programs and services of The Salvation Army.”

Need for financial support is critical because manyAmericans are struggling morethaneverbefore,thegroupshared.

One in three people say they are worse off now than they were a year ago, homelessness has grown at an alarming rate, and families are struggling to pay for essential household bills and expenses with more living from paycheck to paycheck than in previous years.

“The Salvation Army is here to help 365 days a year and not just at Christmas. Many people don’t realize that the donations made at the red kettles during the holidays are the funds that make it possible for The Salvation Army to help people here in Beaumont all year long,” Fagan said. “Donations stay local, so your dollars are going right back into your community with 82

cents of every dollar donated to The Salvation Army going directly towards support services impacting individuals and families in need.”

Donations can be made online dona-

tion at https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/beaumont/ or via mail a to 2350 IH-10 East. For more information about The SalvationArmy, or to make a donation, call (409) 896-2361.

Progress continues on Southeast Texas Food Bank distribution center

By Barbara Davis Staff Reporter

The Southeast Texas Food Bank is expanding its reach by establishing a second distribution center in Jasper, enhancing its service to eight neighboring counties. The construction of the J.H. Rowe Resource Center is currently in progress, showcasing visible advancements in framing, flooring and various project components with the anticipation of opening this summer.

Situated along U.S. Highway 190, the J.H. Rowe Resource Center is strategically designed to aid the region during significant storm events. In the event of damage, inaccessibility or overwhelming demand at the main hub on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Beaumont, this new center will serve as an alternate distribution point, ensuring continuity of operations for the food bank.

While the Beaumont location presently caters to the entire eight-county region, the mobile pantry program has been actively supporting over 5,000 families across 25 sites, primarily located in Sabine, Tyler, Polk, Jasper, and Newton counties since 2021. The J.H. Rowe Resource Center is poised to streamline resources and efficiently distribute them to residents of Jasper, Newton, Tyler, and Sabine counties from its expansive 68,000-square-foot facility.

Jasper County Judge Mark Allen, a board member of the Southeast Texas Food Bank, expressed gratitude to various contributors, including Harvey Zernial and board members of the Southeast Texas Food Bank, Diane Rashall and board members of the Jasper-Newton Counties Public Health District, Superintendent John Seybold and the Jasper ISD school board trustees, the Jasper County and Newton County Commissioners Courts, Eddie Hopkins and JEDCO, and the T.L.L. Temple Foundation for their collaborative efforts in bringing the J.H. Rowe Resource Center closer to realization. Allen emphasized the importance of

the new location during emergency situations, citing the challenges faced during Hurricane Harvey when distribution points were inaccessible. The J.H. Rowe Resource Center will ensure a sustained nutrition-based partnership during such times.

Beyond emergency situations, the resource center will serve as the primary office for the Jasper-Newton Counties Public Health District during non-emergent times and offer a comprehensive range of medical services, including immunizations and nutritional education for families and their children. Services will also extend to primary care appointments, free mammo-

grams for women age 18 to 64 without sufficient health insurance, and free STD and STI testing.

Allen revealed ongoing plans for additional agencies to provide essential services at the new site, aligning with the shared goal of improving health, nutrition, and overall quality of life for families in Jasper County and the Southeast Texas region. The resource center will also be equipped to assist evacuees from surrounding communities in the event of an emergency.

Photos courtesy of Southeast Texas Food Bank

ESD donates rescue and command truck

Thanks to a recent donation from Orange County Emergency Services District No. 1 in Vidor, the Beech Grove Volunteer Fire Department (BGVFD) has a new rescue and command truck.

The truck is a 2015 Ford F-150 that includes emergency equipment and a camper shell allowing equipment and supplies to be stored in the bed and protected from the weather.

According to BGVFD, the donation was made possible through the Helping Hands Program of the Texas A&M Forest Service.

The Beech Grove community is located southeast of Jasper, near the Steinhagen Reservoir. The fire station is located at 10230 FM 777.

HJHS student recognized

At the December meeting of HardinJefferson ISD school board, High School Principal Patrick Brown announced Trinity Moody was named a Commended Student in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Moody was recognized for her ability and potential for academic success in college and may be a candidate for special scholarships offered by National Merit Scholarship Corp. corporate sponsors.

Beaumonter balls in Pacific Partnership

U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Jared Shivers, from Beaumont, took top shots in a basketball tournament with local Palauan residents during a host nation outreach event at the Palau National Olympic Committee in Koror, Palau, as part of Pacific Partnership 2024-1 on Dec. 29, 2023. Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the IndoPacific and works to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships, according to U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jacob Woitzel.

Brainstorming at the border

The Junior League of Beaumont will be “brainstorming at the border” with members in the Lake Charles Junior League for ways to end human trafficking across the Texas border and beyond on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, Jan. 11, beginning at 4 p.m., at the Lone Star Sculpture at the rest area on the Texas/Louisiana state line

in Orange.

“Our mission is to end this horrendous practice,” shared Junior League of Beaumont Abolish Chair Michelle A. Coon-Matheson, MBA. “Our goal: To eradicate trafficking. We know our border is a heavily trafficked area, in fact 1/4 of all human trafficking in the United States takes place in Texas alone.”

The Junior League representative advised that Southeast Texas community members and officials will take part in the program, including speakers from the Beaumont Police Department and Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office, as well as representatives from the Harvest House, a nonprofit organization in Beaumont that advocates on behalf of trafficking victims.

Meet-up and make plans at First Thursday

The Boomtown Film & Music Festival has been showcasing independent art in Southeast Texas since 2008 and is now inviting potential volunteers to be part of making it all happen, including manning the production of movies, music and parties, during an event scheduled at the BAW Resale Shop on Thursday, Jan. 4, from 4- 9 p.m.

Bring any article of cotton clothing and leave with an official screen printing “Team Boomtown” design on it for free – although donations are appreciated.

Meanwhile, at BAW Resale, enter-

tainment will be provided by live performances by Southeast Texas talents like DJ Best Wave beginning at 6 p.m. Additionally, enjoy free admission to BAW OPEN MIC on Calder Street in Beaumont.

The Boomtown Film & Music Festival is coming together for Friday and Saturday, Feb. 23 – 24.

IEA celebrates 2023 accomplishments

By Kathie Platt Special to The Examiner

On a Tuesday night in December, the LIT Multipurpose Center was decked in holiday cheer and filled to overflowing with community members and guests commemorating the season in honor of IEA-Inspire, Encourage,Achieve “Ben’s Kids” program participants. The organization mentors and supports juvenilejustice involved youth, inspiring them towards a more promising path for their futures. Each December, IEA closes out the year with a Holiday Celebration to highlight the spirit of love, peace and joy that undergirds youth and volunteers.

IEA program founder Regina Rogers remarked on the love-filled atmosphere and the spirit of hope. “This evening brings together a remarkable community of role models and other volunteers who support our youth throughout the year, inspiring and encouraging them to reach higher and achieve their dreams.”

IEA Service Coordinator Donna Taylor hilariously disguised as Mrs. Claus, kicked off the evening with a whimsical

welcome for everyone. A new addition was Our Mother of Mercy of Choir directed by Music Minister Carl Stewart and with the performance of several musical selections that had everyone singing along in the spirit of celebration and love. IEA Program Director Joe Evans introduced guest speaker Chief Donta Miller with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department.

“I’m Sheriff Zena Stephens’ No. 2 in the department,” Miller shared. “I’m mostly behind the scenes and go where she directs me. Last year, she appointed me to help teach ‘street law’to the youth at the MRJJC.

“‘Our kids need us more than ever right now,’she said, and I replied, ‘Okay, but what can I teach them?’

“I speak in front of crowds all the time. But the first time I visited, I discovered a small group of kids with such BIG personalities that I knew I needed to sit this first one out and evaluate what was occurring. I thought, ‘I’m the police. I can’t teach them how to be better.’ I even asked my wife for advice.

“Then, I went back the next week and, instead of telling them something they couldn’t hear, I started squeezing them like sponges, listening closely to their personal stories and drawing them out. I became known as ‘The guy you can talk to.’

“They began opening up, and I never

judged them. Instead, I just listened and loved them, and I learned that they just want to be loved. They have made some mistakes, but they need love and the hope of getting out and going on with their lives.”

Miller concluded with an exhortation to everyone, “IEA needs volunteers more than ever right now, individuals who can show up and talk with the kids. I’m 40, and I realize that the mantel has been passed to me and I have taken it. We must be a forgiving and a hope-filled society. I tell the children, ‘You’re going to leave here and you’re going to be great. So, take this gift of love today and continue to grow and have hope for your futures.’”

IEA Executive Director Alexis Patronis acknowledged those who have been instrumental in turning young lives around this year. They included IEA staff; Jefferson County Juvenile Probation Department Chief Ed Cockrell and probation officers; Beaumont Police Chief Jimmy Singletary and several Cops N Kids officers; IEA Board president Kim Phelan and board members Singletary, Cockrell and Rogers; BISD Superintendent Dr. Shannon Allen, Board President Tillie Hickman and

BISD staff; and local community leaders / dignitaries, including Beaumont Mayor Roy West and City Attorney Sharae Reed. Partnerships with juvenile justice, law enforcement, local schools, government, businesses, and faith-based and community service organizations are vital to IEA’s continued growth and success.

After a catered holiday feast, Taylor also recognized IEA team members and support staff who worked tirelessly behind-the-scenes for a successful evening and throughout the year. A BPD Blue Santa Photo Booth (featuring BPD Officer Brandon Hill), along with inflatable sleigh and reindeer, provided opportunities for holiday photos. As the evening concluded, Taylor supervised the presentation of holiday gifts to the children, their families and IEAmentors and volunteers.

The mission of IEA-Inspire, Encourage, Achieve—in cooperation with the Minnie Rogers Juvenile Justice Center (MRJJC)—is to initiate and support educational programming and rehabilitative services for at-risk youth in Southeast Texas by inspiring and encouraging them to achieve. Call (409) 839-8778 for more information.

Standing: IEA Board Member and BPD Chief Jimmy Singletary, BPD Officer Tim Ocnaschek; Seated: IEA Board President Kim Phelan, BPD Officers Tom Swope and Brandon Hill

Small businesses prep for large jobs

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA), along with the Orange County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), is preparing for the second set of workshops for local small businesses prepare for commerce with industry partners through the Local First Initiative.

Jan. 9, the SBDC will host “You Asked, We Listened” – Local First Make Up Session for Session 1 at the Orange County Expo and Convention Center Meeting Room, from 11 a.m. –1:30 p.m. Admission is complimentary and lunch will be provided, but participants must register in advance online at www.eventcreate.com/e/workshopsseries.

Through strategic planning, adapting to industry standards and enhancing capabilities, local businesses are positioning themselves to integrate into the supply chain of large industries burgeoning in and around Southeast Texas.

“Southeast Texas has over $80 billion in large, industry projects announced over the last 10 years,” said Dana Espinal, MBA, director of the SBDC at Lamar State College Port Arthur. “The ability to do business with industry partners can have a major impact on our local small businesses.”

"Local businesses play a pivotal role in our community's economic landscape,” said Kristie Young, consultant

with the Local First Initiative. “As they prepare to engage with large industry partners, they not only enhance their own growth prospects but contribute significantly to the overall prosperity and sustainability of our region."

"Participating in the Local First's workshop on preparing for collaboration with large industries was a great benefit for us at the Orange Stationer,” said Orange Stationer's Paul Dickerson, a participant in the October 2023 Local First workshop. “The insights gained, and connections made, have opened wonderful opportunities for our business. This workshop not only helps small businesses understand the requirements for large jobs but shows them how to meet those standards. This fosters a community where small business can thrive alongside industry giants ensuring a vibrant and resilient business environment for Orange County.”

The LSCPA SBDC coverage area includes Bridge City, Orange and Vidor municipalities. All Orange County area small businesses are welcome to contact Dana Espinal, MBA, for more information. This series of workshops is presented by Golden Triangle Polymers, Local First, and the Orange County Economic Development Corporation.

The LSCPA SBDC is a business advising and training center of the Uni-

Jefferson County commissioners appoint new county auditor

By Barbara Davis Staff Reporter

During the Jan. 2 special meeting of the Jefferson County Commissioners, First Assistant County Auditor Fran Lee was appointed Jefferson County Auditor for the unexpired term of former County Auditor Patrick Swain, effective Jan. 1 through Dec. 31.

Lee has served the county since 1996, when she began as staff accountant, was promoted to financial manager in 2002, and served as first assistant auditor 2017 through 2023.

Lee’s compensation moving forward will be an annual salary of $153,321.38, an automobile allowance of $6,840, and a cell phone allowance of $900.

“I’m grateful for Patrick’s encouragement and support and for his mentorship through the years, as well as the support from our district judges,” said Lee. “It felt like it was a non-event, and I was very grateful they had the confidence in me to do the job. I want to do the best job for the taxpayers.”

With 12 years of experience with the county, Rebekah Patton will take Lee’s place as first assistant county auditor.

“Through the years, Patrick and I have built a great office and we couldn’t do it without our staff,” said Lee.

Swain was appointed county auditor

in 1996 and said that, aside from cleaning out 30 years of nick-nacks from the closet, he is most looking forward to

spending time with his wife of 38 years, Donna, their three children, and his grandbabies as he looks forward to

welcoming the second grand in February.

“I may have to go back to work to get a break,” said Swain with a laugh as he talked about a list of honey do’s he’s certain to tackle.

Swain informed district judges of his intent to retire last August and had a reception on Dec. 12 to say his farewells.

“Fran is very experienced and has been my first assistant auditor for years. She will do a great job,” said Swain.

versity of Houston Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network serving 32 counties in Southeast Texas. The SBDC program is

funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Newly appointed County Auditor Fran Lee has served the county since 1996.

Former County Auditor Patrick Swain celebrates retirement alongside his wife Donna during a Dec. 12 reception.

Beaux Arts Ball 2024: “Metamorphosis: Art Through the Seasons”

Benefiting education and exhibitions programming at The Art Studio, Inc. (TASI)

By Barbara Davis Staff Reporter

The countdown is on for the most anticipated event of the year in Southeast Texas – the Beaux Arts Ball hosted by The Art Studio, Inc. (TASI). Celebrating its 41st year, the annual gala promises an enchanting evening of art, entertainment and community spirit, all while supporting the educational and exhibition programs at TASI.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, Jan. 20, as TASI transforms its historic space at 720 Franklin in downtown Beaumont into a glamorous wonderland with this year’s theme: “Metamorpho-

sis: Art Through the Seasons.” The celebration will unfold from 7-11 p.m., featuring a visual feast inspired by the four seasons of the year.

Event co-chair Misti Hill, known for her imaginative designs, spearheads the transformation. With sustainability in mind, Hill and her team will craft the magical wonderland using recycled materials such as paper, plastic, metal, and glass. Original installations by local artists, including Kailee Viator, Meghan Cobb, Sheila Busceme, Kameron Acevedo and MauriceAbelman, will enhance the atmosphere, creating a unique and eco-friendly experience.

The Beaux Arts Ball is not just an evening of glamour; it serves a noble purpose. Proceeds from the event contribute to the educational and exhibition programming at TASI. The funds support up to 15 exhibitions annually, offer affordable studio workspaces to local artists, and provide a diverse range of educational opportunities, including adaptive art classes. With use of the

funds raised, TASI was able to introduce several new classes in 2023 including an adaptive art class for people with special needs and their families and the art of mental health, which featured exhibits from local artists who have expressed and sought refuge from their mental health struggles through their art. A schedule for the new year will include these and many more newly established opportunities for local artists of all abilities and ailments to experience art and a better quality of life through it.

Co-chair Olivia King explained the significance of this year’s theme: “In over 40 years serving Southeast Texas artists, The Art Studio has seen many seasons of change, and we wouldn’t still be here if we didn’t have the support of the community to keep thriving through so many different cycles in our world.”

Guests are invited to showcase their fashion finery during the “Grande Promenade” at 8 p.m., a tradition that encourages creative interpretations of the theme. While costumes are optional, traditional formal wear is also wel-

comed.

The night will feature live entertainment, including a glamorous drag show starring Olivia Gardner, live musical performances, and a silent auction featuring curated artworks available for bidding until 10 p.m. DJ Day Drunk will set the dance floor ablaze with music and lighting.

Sponsors for “Metamorphosis: Art Through the Seasons” include Regina Rogers, John D. West/ Attorney at Law, Pete Churton and Beth Gallaspy, and many more.

Tickets can be purchased in advance for $50 from The Art Studio, Inc. or online at events.com. Admission on the night of the event will be $75 per person.

For those who value art, community and a good time, the Beaux Arts Ball promises an unforgettable experience. Join TASI in celebrating art’s enduring ability to transform and adapt, ensuring a vibrant and thriving arts community in Southeast Texas. For more information, visit www.artstudio.org/bab2024 or call (409) 838-5393.

sports shorts

Dallas Cowboys

Port Arthur native Jimmy Johnson won a national championship in college as a player, as a head coach and is also a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. He then won two Super Bowls as a head coach and also became a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Johnson was recently enshrined into the Dallas Cowboys’ Ring of Honor on Dec. 30, 2023 during halftime of the Cowboys-Detroit Lions game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

“I don’t think anybody could ever imagine what this means to me,” Johnson said during a pregame press conference “This was a special time in my life. This was something that paid dividends for me the rest of my life, and it’s something I’m extremely proud of. We took over the worst football team in the NFL – the worst. And not only did we win Super Bowls, but we were able to put together the team of the ‘90s. So, obviously, I’m very proud of it. I’m proud to have my name up in the stadium.”

Johnson replaced legendary coach Tom Landry in 1989 and won just one game, but went on to win consecutive Super Bowls in 1992-93 before parting ways with the team in 1993.

Lamar Cardinals

Former West Brook standout Jacei Denley added to her Golden Triangle legacy as she delivered the game-winning buzzer-beater to help the Lamar University women’s basketball team win Loyola Marymount 61-58 on Dec. 30, 2023. As the year came to an end, so too does nonconference play as the

Cardinals entered 2024 with a 6-4 overall record.

Finishing as the game’s top scorer, Denley poured in 15 points on six field goals including three from downtown. She was also one of four Cardinals with 2 steals along with Sabra Dean and T’Aliyah Miner, both of whom finished with 10 points in the contest. Akasha Davis (6 rebounds) and R’Mani Taylor each had 8 points.

With the scored tied, inbounded the ball near LU’s bench and fed Denley, who fired from Steph Curry range. The ball sailed through the hoop with just three-tenths left to go in the game. LU then held off LMU’s last desperate attempt to secure the win.

The women’s team will open Southland Conference play Thursday, Jan. 4, as they host Incarnate Word at 7 p.m. followed by a league game Saturday, Jan. 6, against Northwestern State at 3 p.m.

Eleven of the 12 players who checked into the game scored at least 2 points and pulled down at least 1 rebound as the men’s basketball team downed Paul Quinn College, 91-64, on Dec. 30, 2023.

Four Cardinals finished the game in double figures for an offense that shot 47.1% from the field, including eight three-pointers.

LU was led by 15 points from both Terry Anderson and Adam Hamilton. Anderson finished the night with a double-double pulling down 10 rebounds. Ja’Sean Jackson came off the bench to score 12 points while Chris Pryor added 10.

LU (6-7) will host Northwestern St. on Saturday, Jan. 6, at 6 p.m. and Incarnate Word on Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 7 p.m.

National Signing Day

Beaumont United

Trevanti Davis (SFA, football)

Weston Davis (LSU, football)

Jasper

Kalani Sells (Mississippi State, softball)

Britain Simmons (Lamar, football)

Ty’Anthony Smith (Texas, football)

Lumberton

Roman Ardoin (Centenary College, baseball)

Haley Davis (McNeese, soccer)

Cannon Faulk (McLennan CC, baseball)

Brock Jackson (Baylor, football)

Trey Kersh (Lamar, football)

Nick Rossomando (Lamar, football)

Grayden Spencer (Lamar, football)

Tanner Tipton (Judson University, football)

Avery Yarbrough (Lamar, football)

Newton

Railyn Adams (Sam Houston, football)

Port Arthur Memorial

Daevon Iles (Old Dominion, football)

Silsbee

Raydrian Baltrip (Abilene Christian, football)

Jared Harris (Memphis, basketball)

Trei Kibbles (Rice, football)

Drelon Miller (Colorado, football)

Brock Jackson, Trey Kersh, Tanner Tipton, Nick Rossomando, Haley Davis, Cannon Faulk, Roman Ardoin, Grayden Spencer and Avery Yarbrough of Lumberton

Weston Davis, coach Darrel Colbert and Trevanti Davis of Beaumont United Daevon Iles of Port Arthur Memorial

Jacei Denley celebrates with Lamar teammates after hitting a game-winning shot Dec. 30, 2023.

Social Security update for 2024

It has been my custom for most of the past 27 years to write a year-end column that summarizes the Social Security updates scheduled to take place the following year. I already discussed some of these updates in a column back in October when they were first announced, but it doesn’t hurt to repeat them here. (They all grow out of the annual cost-of-living adjustments that have been part of the program since 1973.)

But before I go on, I’ve got to address a related and totally misleading ad that pops up every day on my cellphone and iPad, and I’m sure it does on your devices, too. The headline goes something like this: “Here are 6 major changes to Social Security coming in 2024 that you probably don’t know about.” If you open it up (and maybe get sucked in by all the other ads on the site), you will learn that those “major changes” are just the routine COLA adjustments that have been part of the program for over 50 years now. I’m sharing those routine adjustments with you today -- without all the hype.

ty payment anyone can receive. There are millions of Social Security beneficiaries who get much more than that, primarily because they worked well past their FRA and/or delayed starting their benefits until age 70.

Here’s another important point about the COLA. Many readers have been asking me if they must file for Social Security benefits in 2023 in order to get the COLA that’s paid in January 2024. The answer is no. The COLA will be built into the benefit computation formula. So even if you don’t file for Social Security until next year, or some subsequent year, you’ll still get the 3.2% increase.

Social Security and You

Almost all Social Security beneficiaries are familiar with the most popular and publicized upcoming change: the increase in monthly benefit checks for 2024 due to the automated cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA.As all of you are already aware, that increase will be 3.2%.

OK, back to the 2024 Social Security COLA. Due to these increases, the average monthly retirement check will be $1,907 in 2024, a $59 increase from the 2023 level. The maximum Social Security check for a worker turning full retirement age (FRA) in 2024 will be $3,822, compared to $3,627 in 2023. And please note that $3,822 is the maximum for someone turning full retirement age in 2024. That does not mean it is the maximum Social Securi-

Although this is a Social Security column, I must mention the upcoming increase in the Medicare Part B premium, which is deducted from Social Security checks for most people. In 2024, the basic Part B premium is projected to be $174.70. That’s $9.80 more than the 2023 rate. And as has been the case for 20 years now, wealthy people will pay more than the basic premium.

I don’t want to get into the complicated issue of Medicare premiums other than to make this quick point. Even though they are linked in the minds of most senior citizens, Social Security and Medicare are entirely separate programs, administered by entirely separate federal agencies, and they have entirely separate rules and regulations regarding their benefit and payment structures. For example, the Part B Medicare premium increase has nothing to do with the Social Security COLA. Instead, by law, it must be set at a level that covers 25% of the cost of running the program. Taxpayers pick up the remaining 75%. (And again, wealthy people pay more than the 25% share.)

Another measuring stick called the “national wage index” is used to set increases to other provisions of the law

that affect Social Security beneficiaries and taxpayers. Specifically, this includes increases in the amount of wages or self-employment income subject to Social Security tax; the amount of income needed to earn a “quarter of coverage”; and the Social Security earnings penalty limits.

The Social Security taxable earnings base will go up from $160,200 in 2023 to $168,600 in 2024. In other words, people who earn more than $168,600 in 2024 will no longer have Social Security payroll taxes deducted from their paychecks once they hit that threshold. This has always been a very controversial provision of the law. (Bill Gates pays the same amount of Social Security tax as his plumber!)

I think it’s a pretty good bet that any eventual Social Security reform package will include an increase in that wage base.

Most people need 40 Social Security work cred its (sometimes called “quarters of coverage”) to be eligible for monthly benefit checks from the system. In 2023, people who were working earned one credit for each $1,640 in Social Security taxable income. But no one earns more than four credits per year. In other words, once you made $6,560, your Social Security record was credited with the maximum four credits or quarters of coverage. In 2024, the one credit limit goes up to $1,730, meaning you will have to earn $6,920 this coming year before you get the maximum four credits assigned to your Social Security account.

amount of money they can earn and still receive all their Social Security checks. That limit was $21,240 in 2023 and will be $22,320 in 2024. For every two dollars a person earns over those limits, one dollar is withheld from his or her monthly benefits.

There is a higher earnings threshold in the year a person turns full retirement age that applies from the beginning of the year until the month the person reaches FRA. (The income penalty goes away once a person reaches that magic age.) That threshold goes up from $56,520 in 2023 to $59,520 in 2024.

A couple other Social Security provisions are also impacted by inflationary increases. For example, people getting disability benefits who try to work can generally continue getting those benefits as long as they are not working at a “substantial” level. In 2023, the law defined substantial work as any job paying $1,470 or more per month. In 2024, that substantial earnings level increases to $1,550 monthly.

Finally, the Supplemental Security Income basic federal payment level for one person goes up from $914 in 2023 to $943 in 2024. SSI is a federal welfare program administered by the Social Security Administration, but it is not a Social Security benefit. It is paid for out of general revenues, not Social Security taxes.

People under their full retirement age who get Social Security retirement or survivor’s benefits but who are still working are subject to limits in the

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called“Social Security – Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.”

Tom Margenau columnist

Death Notices

Dorothy Charlene Parchmont, 77, of Nederland, died December 18, 2023.

Brenda Joyce Pantalion Rogers, 73, of Beaumont, died December 18, 2023.

Roger Bobbitt, 65, of Kountze, died December 19, 2023.

Major Roy Allen Birdsong, 69, of Port Neches, died December 19, 2023.

Jack W. Tucker, 84, of Beaumont, died December 19, 2023.

Kenny Bernard, 70, of Beaumont, Texas, died December 19, 2023.

Jose Luis Saavedra Gonzalez, 58, of Beaumont, died December 19, 2023.

Sherman "Dooney-Bob" Joseph, Jr., 71, of Beaumont, died December 19, 2023.

PerryJacobBoninIII,36,ofOrange,diedDecember 19, 2023.

SherrolynKay“Sherry”Reagan, 69, of Beaumont, died December 20, 2023.

J.W. “Dub” Graham, 86, of Beaumont, died December 20, 2023.

Kenneth Lee Dupuis, 78, of Bridge City, died December 20, 2023.

Bernice F. Mangum, 89, of Nederland, died December 20, 2023.

Paul Sanders, Jr., 84, of Beaumont, died December 20, 2023.

Glenda Ynfante Johnson, 79, of Fannett, died December 21, 2023.

Eugene Arnold Adams, 86, ofVidor, died December 21, 2023.

Louella Delores Zeno, 75, of Beaumont, died December 21, 2023.

Donnetta Jo Thomas Corbin, 66, of Beaumont, died December 21, 2023.

Fay Alva Jean Williams, 87, of Orange, died December 22, 2023.

Celia Faye Sweat, 82, of China, died December 22, 2023.

Robert M. Dean, 72, of Beaumont, died December 22, 2023.

Romona Carlin, 81, of Beaumont, died December 23, 2023.

Gilbert Saldana, 89, of Beaumont, died December 23, 2023.

Portia “Mimi” Cox, 74, of Groves, died December 22, 2023.

R.L. Jordan, 79, of Kountze, died December 23, 2023.

Joe Lee “Poppy” Bonura, 97, of Beaumont, died December 24, 2023.

Herman Hall, Jr., 86, of Silsbee, died December 24, 2023.

James Kent Tatum, 57, of Silsbee, died December 24, 2023.

Mark Glen Howard, 54, of Silsbee, died December 24, 2023.

AshleiJasmeneColgate-Edwards, 39, of Houston, died December 24, 2023.

Shearon Kay Peterson, 66, of Beaumont, died December 25, 2023.

Patricia Ann Borel, 83, of Port Arthur, died December 25, 2023.

Dale Edward Forse, 63, of Orange, died December 25, 2023.

Debra Jo Watts, 65, of Port Neches, died December 25, 2023.

Phyllis Landgraf, 59, of Silsbee, died December 25, 2023.

Joseph Nobles, 69, of Beaumont, died December 26, 2023.

Thomas Luke Conway, 52, of Port Arthur, died December 26, 2023.

James Louis Noble, 93, of Beaumont, died December 26, 2023.

E.J.Vincent, 92, of Orange, died December 26, 2023.

RaymondG.Knox,77,ofBeaumont,diedDecember 26, 2023.

Severiano Reynaldo Mijes, 59, of Beaumont, died December 26, 2023.

Juanita Riggs, 49, of Beaumont, died December 26, 2023.

Barbara"Bob"Watts,73,ofSilsbee,diedDecember 26, 2023.

Hazel Ann Norris, 84, of Orange, died December 27, 2023.

MaryEvaNewton, 84, of Beaumont, died December 27, 2023.

Taxescanaffectmanyareasofyourlife.Herearesome commonsituationswhenyou'llwanttoscheduleatax review.

1. Somethingchangedinyourlife.Achangeinyour lifecouldmeansignificantchangesinyourtaxstatus. Someofthesechangesinclude:

How your taxes may be different: Tax deductions and credits can increase and decrease because of these and other life changes. You'll want to know as soon as possible if your taxes will be going up so you can be prepared to pay the increased amount.

a. Gettingmarriedordivorced

b. Retirement

c. A child starting college or an adult going back to school

d. Movingtoanewhome

e. Thebirthofachildoranadoption

f. Afamilymemberpassesaway

2. A new job. You'll have several decisions to make when starting a newjobthatwillaffectyourtaxsituation:

How your taxes may be different: You can decrease your taxable income by contributing to qualified retirement and medical savings plans. A tax planning session can reveal how much you can contribute to each of these plans, and if you should consider adjusting your paycheck withholdings.

a. Retirement savings plans - Learn about the available retirement savings plans offered by the employer and any other tax-deferred savings options. Remember that some employers will match a certain percentage of contributions that an employee makes to a plan.

b. Medical savings accounts - Your employer may offer a Flexible Spending Account or a Health Savings Account to help with paying certainmedicalexpenseswithpre-taxfunds.

c. Withholding - You'll need to determine if you want additional federal(alongwithstateandlocalincometaxesifapplicable)income taxes withheld from your paycheck beyond what your employer is obligatedtowithhold.

3. Anewbusinessorsidehustle.Anewbusiness(hopefully!)means more money, but also more tax responsibilities. Here are some things toconsider:

How your taxes may be different: Most small businesses are flow through entities. This means any business profits will add to your personal income. Because of this, your personal tax situation could vary dramatically! So tax planning becomes critical on two fronts: Your new taxable income level AND helping you stay in compliance at the federal, state and local business tax rules.

a. Separate accounts and credit cards - If you only remember one tip,it'stokeepseparateaccounts.Withoutthis,itiseasyfortheIRS todeemexpensesaspersonaland,therefore,notdeductible.

b. Payingestimatedtaxes-Asabusinessowner,youareresponsible for making tax payments throughout the year to the IRS if your businessisprofitable.

c. Setting up a bookkeeping system - Having an accurate bookkeeping system is vital to making sure you don't pay any more in taxes than you're legally obligated to pay. Consider reconciling your bank accounts weekly (or even daily if possible) so they're alwayscurrent.

d. Othertaxresponsibilities-Youmayberequiredtosubmitasales taxreturndependingonwhattypesofproductsyousellorservices you provide. You'll also be required to submit various payroll tax returnsifyouhaveanyemployees.

Nobody likes a tax surprise and now is a great time to schedule a tax planningreview.

JANA URIBE, CPA, IS A PARTNER AT POLLANS & COHEN P.C.

Making chemicals that people use every day

Indorama provides solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges. From cleaner energy and high-performance textiles to fuel-efficient transportation and stronger, lighter building materials, we deliver innovation that touches people’s lives every single day.

Indorama currently has the following positions open at our facility in Port Neches, Texas.

Electrical Engineer Intern

Environmental Specialist

I & E Project Engineer

I & E Project Manager

Production Engineer

Site Reliability Engineer

Indorama Ventures Oxides & Derivatives is a leading chemical intermediates and surfactants producer with a diverse range of products in growth markets such as home & personal care, agrochemicals, oilfield technologies, fuel & lube additives and more. The successful candidate will receive a competitive compensation and will be eligible to participate in a comprehensive benefits package which includes: medical, vision and dental, basic life insurance, AD&D insurance, and 401k. Here, you can make an impact and make a difference. Come join us!

Third-party resumes not accepted.

Indorama is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identification, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.

Porter

16324902 NEDERLAND

Groundskeeping; clean pool, office & some make-readies. Troubleshoot appliances, replace fixtures, etc. TXDL. $13.00/hr. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Retail Optician

16325020 PORTARTHUR

Design, measure, fit, and adapt lenses & frames for patients according to prescription/specification. Starts at $26K/yr. 1 yr. college/career school. Call1-877-834-5627toapply.

Driver Merchandiser 16339303 BEAUMONT

Deliver, merchandise, display. Rotate products according to company standards. Valid Class A CDL. 21YOA/ older. Up to $42K/yr. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

Licensed Vocational Nurse 16339939 BEAUMONT

Functions as part of the multidisciplinary team in providing safe & effective dialysis therapy for assigned patients.$37K-54K/yr.Call1-877-8345627toapply.

Driver Main Transport 16339622 BEAUMONT

Properly load/unload product at customer locations. Use onboard technology (Smartlogix, Samsara) Up to $50K/yr. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Disaster Workforce Engagement Specialist

16339513 ORANGE

Participate in regional volunteer workforceplanning.Supportfunctional leads & supervisors. Bachelors. Up to $86K/yr. Call1-877-834-5627toapply.

Rental Equipment Tech/Mechanic 16340418 BEAUMONT

Perform maintenance &repairs. Must ownpropertoolstoperformnecessary repairs.  $27,548-$54,284/yr. HS/GED. Call1-877-834-5627toapply.

Engineering & Maintenance Manager 16340286 BEAUMONT

Help develop plans, programs & procedures to meet the plant's objectives. Bachelors. Up to $129K/yr. Call1-877-834-5627toapply.

Electrician 16339293 PORTARTHUR

Place conduit, pipes, or tubing, inside designated partitions, walls, or other concealedareas.Pullinsulatedwiresor cables, etc. HS/GED.TXDL. Call 1-877834-5627toapply.

Assistant Manager 16306362 BEAUMONT

Directly supervise & coordinate activities of workers engaged in preparing and serving food.TXDL. HS/ GED. 18YOA/older. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

Accounting and Finance Specialist

16341128 BEAUMONT

Oversee accounts payable (AP), accounts receivable (AR), sales tax reporting, general ledger (GL) reconciliations. Also, statement prep, cash monitoring, inventory controls, etc. HS/GED. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Multi-craft Operator (MCO)

16338994 ORANGE

Performing maintenance on industrial machinery & equipment. Requires installation, dismantling, and/or movingmachineryandequipment.Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Molding Room Production Worker

16337560 BEAUMONT

Prepares equipment & work area for production, performs production room operations&cleansequipment/facility. HS/GED. $12.43/hr. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

Service Technician  16337365 BEAUMONT

Provide high-quality repair, maintenance & installation of sample conditioning equipment in refineries. $27K-$49K/yr. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Customer Service Representative 16306291 BEAUMONT

Interact w/customers; take or enter orders. Determine charges. Use computers;dataentry.Call1-877-8345627toapply.

Personal Care Aide

16302888 BEAUMONT

Provide assistance to individuals w/ disabilities or illness. Help w/personal care, feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, etc. Call 1-877834-5627toapply.

Assistant Food Service Director

16338355 BEAUMONT

Plan, direct & coordinate activities associated w/large food service operation. Supervise food service workers. HS/GED. 18YOA/older. Up to $76K/yr.Call1-877-834-5627toapply.

Clerical Assistant

16337801 BEAUMONT

Operate office machines, copiers, scanners, computers, etc. Answer phones, direct calls; take messages. Communicate w/customers, employees,etc.$22.00-$26.00/hr.HS/ GED. TXDL. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Maintenance Planner

16342286 ORANGE

Prepare job package. Input plan into Tracking System (GEMTS). Indicate required resources, materials, and services.Associates.Upto$96K/yr.Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Retail Store Manager

16342277 BEAUMONT

Overseeingallaspectsofthedailystore operations/ Leading a diverse team of retailstoreemployees.HS/GED.$15.00 - $21.63/hr. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Senior Improvement Engineer

16342260 ORANGE

Serve as a member of the plant improvement team to develop &

implement Plant Specific Technology Plans.Bachelors.Startsat$69K/yr.Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Emergency Services & Security Tech

16342201 ORANGE Share responsibility for emergency services&security(ES&S)management system. Meet business objectives, maintain the license to operate. HS/ GED. $22K-$38K/yr. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

New Assignment Editor 16338979 BEAUMONT Initiate contacts, generate story ideas & react decisively to breaking news. Write & post content to station website, social media sites. HS/GED. 18YOA/older. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Chart Retrieval Specialist 16336492 BEAUMONT Arriveatscheduledtimes.scan/upload assigned medical records using Datavant equipment & processes. Mileage reimbursement, bonuses. HS/ GED.Startsat$27K/yr.Call1-877-8345627toapply.

Behavioral Health Professional 16336709 BEAUMONT Grant-funded position. Provide comprehensive clinical & case management services to victims of crime. $5,788.12/mo. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

Utility Worker

16335774 ORANGE Assist production lead. Load & unload items from machines, conveyors & conveyances. Operate machinery. Call 1-877-834-5627toapply. Hospice Medical Social Worker 16341454 BEAUMONT Assists the patient & family w/health related financial, social & emotional concerns. Assists with effective coping skills. Masters. Up to $68K/yr. Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Field Construction Manager Responsible for complete oversight of field execution activities. Directs all daily craft work. Call 1-877-834-5627 toapply.

Radiographer Tech Level I/II 16335788 BEAUMONT Conduct tests on industrial materials, equipment & assets in order to determine if sound or flaws are present. $36.00 - $40.00 /hr. Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Pest Control Technician  16342137 BEAUMONT Apply or release chemical solutions or toxicgases&settrapstokillorremove pests/vermin that infest buildings & surrounding areas. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

LegaLs

TO CONSIDER THE FOL-

Pursuant to 775.036(f)

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Proposals will be received by the City of Beaumont, Beaumont, Texas, until 2:00 P.M. (CT), THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024 and all proposals will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers on that date for:

Six (6) Month Contract for Water Treatment ChemicalsPhosphate

Questions about the Bid mustbesubmittedby10:00

AM (CT) on Thursday, January 11, 2024. Answers to the questions may be provided through an Addendum.

Proposal forms, specifications and all necessary information may be downloaded from the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/Login. aspx

Proposals must be submitted through the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas. ionwave.net/Login.aspx Vendors must register to submit a bid or proposal.

The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or to accept any proposal or combination of proposals deemed advantageous to it.

Please make reference to RFP Number: DF1224-08

Proposal Closing Date: JANUARY 18, 2024

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Proposals will be received by the City of Beaumont, Beaumont, Texas, until 2:00 P.M. (CT), THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2024, and all proposals will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers on that date for:

Six (6) Month Contract for Water Treatment Chemicals –Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda)

Questions about the Bid mustbesubmittedby10:00 A.M. (CT) on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Answers to the questions may be provided through an Addendum.

Proposal forms, specifications and all necessary information may be downloaded from the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/Login. aspx

Proposals must be submitted through the City’s e-bids platform at: https:// beaumonttexas.ionwave. net/Login.aspx. Vendors must register to submit a bid or proposal.

The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, or to accept any proposal or combination of proposals deemed advantageous to it.

Please make reference to RFP Number: DF1224-09

Proposal Closing Date: JANUARY 25, 2024

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

CITY OF BEAUMONT BEAUMONT, TEXAS

*NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING*

A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BEAUMONT ON:

DATE: Monday, January 22, 2024

TIME: 3:00 p.m.

PLACE: City Council Chambers, City Hall, 801 Main Street

The meetings will also be broadcast on the City’s YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCnY6nNk8zfXZulMg1zbwEBg

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: Request to approve a Replat of Lot 6, BayouOaksEstatesAddition into Lot 6A, Bayou Oaks Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas. Planning Division File: PZ2023-512.

FILED BY: Richard Bartz of Whiteley Infrastructure Group

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 8505 Labelle Road

ON PROPERTY

DESCRIBEDASFOLLOWS:

Being Lot 6, Bayou Oaks Estate Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 7.842 acres more or less.

A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE CITYCOUNCILANDPLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BEAUMONT ON:

DATE: Monday, January 22, 2024

TIME: 3:15 p.m.

PLACE: City Council Chambers, City Hall, 801 Main Street

LOWING: A request for a Specific Use Permit to allow aduplexwithintheR-S(Residential Single-Family Dwelling) District. Planning Division File: PZ2023-513.

FILED BY: Fulton Johnson

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 788 and 798 Shell Street

ON PROPERTY

DESCRIBEDASFOLLOWS:

Being Lots 16-19, Block 3, Shell Road Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 0.275 acres, more or less.

“Equal Housing Opportunity” THE MEETING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

PLANNING COMMISSION Chris Boone, Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Address for Jefferson County Emergency Service District No. 1

Pursuant to 775.036(f)

Section of the Texas Health and Safety Code, notice is hereby given that the address for the Jefferson County Emergency Service District No. 1 is as follows:

Administrative Office: 13550 River Oaks Blvd. Beaumont, Texas 77713

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Address for Jefferson County Emergency Service District No. 3

Pursuant to 775.036(f)

Section of the Texas Health and Safety Code, notice is hereby given that the address for the Jefferson County Emergency Service District No. 3 is as follows:

Administrative Office: 3554 S. Pine Island Rd. Beaumont, Texas 77713

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Address for Jefferson County Emergency Service District No. 4

Section of the Texas Health and Safety Code, notice is hereby given that the address for the Jefferson County Emergency Service District No. 4 is as follows:

Administrative Office 12880 FM 365 Beaumont, Texas 77705

CHARLIES STORAGE

Notice of Public Sale to satisfy a landlord’s lien. To be held online at:

http://www.lockerfox.com/ auctions/details/10595746

facility at 1715 Atlanta Ave, Nederland TX 77627, to conclude 01/18/2024.

Cleanup deposit required. Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale. Unit items sold as-is to the highest bidder.

Property includes the contents of space of Terry Howard: tools.

WESTRIDGE TOWNHOMES HOA ANNUAL MEETING

Westridge Townhomes Homeowner’s Association

Annual Meeting will be held this Saturday, January 6, 2024, from 1 to 3 pm in the meetingroomatCafeDelRio located at 2830 I-10, Beaumont, TX 77703.

Contact James Callas at 409-554-2585 Westridge@setxre.com

THE STATE OF TEXAS

No. 23DCCV0265

Cuc Thi Dong Vs. Miguel Angel Ulin Mejia CITATION BY PUBLICATION - PERSON

136TH DISTRICT COURT of JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: MIGUEL ANGEL ULIN MEJIA DEFENDANT:

NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty days after you were served this citation and peti-

tion, a default judgment may be taken against you. In addition to filing a written answer with the clerk, you may be required to make initial disclosures to the other parties of this suit. These disclosures generally must be made no later than 30 days after you file your answer with the clerk. Find out more at TexasLawHelp. org Said answer may be filed by E-filing through efiletexas. gov, if represented by an attorney; or if filed pro se by deliveringormailingsameto:

District Clerk’s Office, 1085 Pearl St., Room 203, Beaumont, TX 77701. The case is presently pending before the 136th District Court of Jefferson County sitting in Beaumont, Texas, and was filed on the 20th day of April 2023. It bears cause number 23DCCV0265 and is styled:

CUC THI DONG vs. MIGUEL ANGEL ULIN MEJIA

The name and address of the attorney for plaintiff (or plaintiff if pro se) is:

JOHN S. MORGAN MORGAN LAW FIRM P.O. BOX 7728

BEAUMONT, TX 77726

The nature of the demands of said plaintiff is shown by a true and correct copy of Plaintiff’s Original Petition accompanying this citation and made a part thereof.

Issued under my hand and the seal of said court, at Beaumont, Texas, this the 20th day of April 2023.

JAMIE SMITH, DISTRICT CLERK JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS BY Erin Harper Erin Harper, Deputy

CITATION BY PUBLICATION

CLERK OF THE COURT

ROXANNE ACOSTAHELLBERG JEFFERSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE 1085 PEARL STREET BEAUMONT, TX 77701

PETITIONER’S ATTORNEY

THOMAS A. ZABEL 1135 HEIGHTS BLVD. HOUSTON, TEXAS 77008

THE STATE OF TEXAS

You are hereby notified that Plaintiff’s First Amended Statement and Petition for Condemnation was filed in the County Court at Law No. 1, Jefferson County, Texas on the 18th day of July A.D. 2023, in this case, numbered 138455onthedocketofsaid court and styled:

MOBIL PIPE LINE COMPANY

Plaintiff, VS. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, AND ASSIGNS OF ALICE PISTOLE LEBARON, DECEASED; THE

UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, AND ASSIGNS OF GRACE E. LEBARON, DECEASED; AND/OR ANY OTHER PERSONS OR ENTITIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THAT CERTAINSTRIPOFLANDSITUATED IN LOT 127 OF THE GLADYS CITY OIL, GAS AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY SUBDIVISION, J.A. VEATCH SURVEY, A-55, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS, AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED IN JUDGMENT DATED OCTOBER 10, 1903 FROM ANNIE TRENCH, ET AL., TO JOSEPH H. TREMBLY, ET AL., RECORDED UNDER CAUSE NUMBER 4298, DISTRICT COURT, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS Defendants.

To:TheUnknownHeirs,Successors,andAssignsofAlice Pistole LeBaron, Deceased; TheUnknownHeirs,Successors, and Assigns of Grace E. LeBaron, Deceased; and/ or any other Persons or Entities Claiming an Interest in that Certain Strip of Land Situated in Lot 127 of the Gladys City Oil, Gas and Manufacturing Company Subdivision, J.A. Veatch Survey, A-55, Jefferson County, Texas, and Being More Particularly Described in Judgment Dated October 10, 1903 from Annie Trench, et al., to Joseph H. Trembly, et al., Recorded under Cause Number 4298, District Court, Jefferson County, Texas and/ or other persons or entities claiming an interest in that certain of land described as:

6.63acresofland,more or less, situated in Lot 127, Gladys City Manufacturing, Oil and Gas Company, subdivision, J. A. Veatch Survey, A-55, Jefferson County, Texas and being more particularly described in Judgment dated October 10, 1903 from Annie Trench, et al, to Joseph H. Trembly, et al, recorded under cause number 4298, District Court, Jefferson County, Texas, and being further described as a called 6.63acretractoflandin the name of Mobil Pipe Line Company, et al., as recorded in Volume 1723, Page 358 of the Deed Records of Jefferson County, Texas, less and except any conveyances heretofore made (the “Property”).

You are hereby notified that an eminent domain proceeding – Cause No. 138455 in the County Court at Law No. 1 of Jefferson County, Texas – has been initiated with respect the Property. On the 18th day of July 2023, Mobil Pipe Line Company (“MPL”) filed its First Amended Statement and Petition for Condemnation (the “Petition”) with the Jefferson County Clerk. MPL is in the process of locating, installing, and constructing an approximate 58-mile common carrier pipeline (the “Pipeline”) from Mont Belvieu, Texas, to Beaumont, Texas, to expand its existing common carrier

pipeline system (the “System”). The System will operate for the transportation of crude petroleum, oil, oil products, gas, liquified minerals, or other mineral solutions (collectively, “Product”) for public use or service for compensation. MPL is acquiring through this proceeding a fee simple interest in the Property for the purposes of constructing the Pipeline and thereafter for the receipt, transportation, and delivery of the Product.

You are further notified that the Special Commissioners appointed by the Judge of the County Court at Law No. 1, Jefferson County, Texas, have scheduled a hearing to be held on the 1st day of February, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Beaumont-Plaza, (I-10 & Walden), 3950 I-10 South & Walden Rd, Beaumont, Texas 77705, at which time the Special Commissioners will assess the damages occasioned by the condemnation interests sought in the Petition. The interests described in the Petition are being sought in fee against any persons or entities who own or claim an interest in the Property, save andexceptthefollowingpersons or entities to be expressly excluded: any persons or entities who have, as of the date of the Special Commissioners’ hearing, conveyed to MPL certain property rights via deed or easement for the construction of the Pipeline across the Property.

If this Notice is not served by publication within ninety (90) days after its issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Witness Our Hands this the 21st day of February 2023, /s/ Edward Coburn, /s/ Russell Bridges, and /s/ Sue Simon, Special Commissioners, Jefferson County, Texas, hereby order this writ published in The Examiner for the time specified therein.

ISSUED AND GIVEN under my hand and seal of said Court at Jefferson County, Texas, this the 8th day of December A.D. 2023.

ROXANNE ACOSTA-HELLBERG, County Clerk

By: Bridgett Moore Deputy Clerk

CITATION BY PUBLICATION

CLERK OF THE COURT

ROXANNE ACOSTAHELLBERG JEFFERSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE 1085 PEARL STREET BEAUMONT, TX 77701

PETITIONER’S ATTORNEY

THOMAS A. ZABEL 1135 HEIGHTS BLVD. HOUSTON, TEXAS 77008

THE STATE OF TEXAS

You are hereby notified that Plaintiff’s First Amended Statement and Petition for Condemnation was filed in

the County Court at Law No. 1, Jefferson County, Texas on the 18th day of July A.D. 2023, in this case, numbered 138459onthedocketofsaid court and styled:

MOBIL PIPE LINE COMPANY Plaintiff, VS. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, AND ASSIGNS OF ALICE PISTOLE LEBARON, DECEASED; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, AND ASSIGNS OF GRACE E. LEBARON, DECEASED; AND/OR ANY OTHER PERSONS OR ENTITIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THAT CERTAINSTRIPOFLANDSITUATED IN LOT 16 OF THE GLADYS CITY OIL, GAS AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY SUBDIVISION, JOHN VEATCH SURVEY, A-55, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS, AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED IN GENERAL WARRANTY DEED DATED MARCH 25, 1996 FROM HAZEL INEZ JONES TO KELL R. JONES, AND WIFE, MARSHA W. JONES, RECORDED UNDER COUNTY CLERK’S FILE NUMBER 9608862, JEFFERSON COUNTY TEXAS Defendants.

To:TheUnknownHeirs,Successors,andAssignsofAlice Pistole LeBaron, Deceased; TheUnknownHeirs,Successors, and Assigns of Grace E. LeBaron, Deceased; and/ or any other Persons or Entities Claiming an Interest in that Certain Strip of Land Situated in Lot 16 of the Gladys City Oil, Gas and Manufacturing Company Subdivision, John Veatch Survey, A-55, Jefferson County, Texas, and Being More Particularly Described in General Warranty Deed Dated March 25, 1996 from Hazel Inez Jones to Kell R. Jones, and Wife, Marsha W. Jones, Recorded under County Clerk’s File Number 9608862, Jefferson County Texas and/or other persons or entities claiming an interest in that certain of land described as:

1 acre of land, more or less, situated in Lot 16 of the Gladys City Oil, Gas and Manufacturing Company Subdivision, John Veatch Survey, A-55, Jefferson County, Texas, and being more particularly described in General Warranty Deed dated March 25, 1996 from Hazel Inez Jones to Kell R. Jones, and wife, Marsha W. Jones, recorded under County Clerk’s file number 9608862, Jefferson County Texas, and being further described as a called 1 acre tract of land in the name of Mobil Pipe Line Company, et al., as recorded in Volume 1764, Page 29 of the Deed Records of Jefferson County, Texas, less and except any conveyances heretofore made (the “Property”).

You are hereby notified that an eminent domain proceeding – Cause No. 138459 in the County Court at Law No. 1 of Jefferson County, Texas – has been initiated with respect the Property. On the

18th day of July 2023, Mobil Pipe Line Company (“MPL”) filed its First Amended Statement and Petition for Condemnation (the “Petition”) with the Jefferson County Clerk. MPL is in the process of locating, installing, and constructing an approximate 58-mile common carrier pipeline (the “Pipeline”) from Mont Belvieu, Texas, to Beaumont, Texas, to expand its existing common carrier pipeline system (the “System”). The System will operate for the transportation of crude petroleum, oil, oil products, gas, liquified minerals, or other mineral solutions (collectively, “Product”) for public use or service for compensation. MPL is acquiring through this proceeding a fee simple interest in the Property for the purposes of constructing the Pipeline and thereafter for the receipt, transportation, and delivery of the Product.

You are further notified that the Special Commissioners appointed by the Judge of the County Court at Law No. 1, Jefferson County, Texas, have scheduled a hearing to be held on the 1st day of February, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Hotel & SuitesBeaumont-Plaza,(I-10 & Walden), 3950 I-10 South & Walden Rd, Beaumont, Texas 77705, at which time the Special Commissioners will assess the damages occasioned by the condemnation interests sought in the Petition. The interests described in the Petition are being sought in fee against any persons or entities who own or claim an interest in the Property, save andexceptthefollowingpersons or entities to be expressly excluded: any persons or entities who have, as of the date of the Special Commissioners’ hearing, conveyed to MPL certain property rights via deed or easement for the construction of the Pipeline across the Property.

If this Notice is not served by publication within ninety (90) days after its issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Witness Our Hands this the 17th day of March 2023, /s/ Vernon Durden, /s/ Mike Simon, and /s/ Sue Simon, Special Commissioners, Jefferson County, Texas, hereby order this writ published in The Examiner for the time specified therein.

ISSUED AND GIVEN under my hand and seal of said Court at Jefferson County, Texas, this the 8th day of December A.D. 2023.

ROXANNE ACOSTA-HELLBERG, County Clerk

By: Bridgett Moore Deputy Clerk

THE STATE OF TEXAS

No. A-210986

NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC VS. YADIRA PEREZ, ET AL

CITATION BY PUBLICATION –PROPERTY

58TH DISTRICT COURT

JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: THEUNKNOWNHEIRS AT LAW OF OSCAR JACINTO, DECEASED DEFENDANT:

PLAINTIFF NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC, ITS SUCCESSORSININTEREST OR ASSIGNS, BY AND THROUGH ITS ATTORNEY OF RECORD JOSEPH M. VACEK OF ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE&PARTNERS,PLLC, 5601 EXECUTIVE DR., SUITE 400, IRVING, TEXAS 75038, BROUGHT SUIT AGAINST YADIRA PEREZ, COURTNEY MARIE JASINTO, AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF OSCAR JACINTO, DECEASED AND ANY OTHER PERSON CLAIMING ANY SUBORDINATE RIGHT, TITLE AND/OR INTEREST IN 3290 WILLOWOOD DRIVE, BEAUMONT, TEXAS 77703 (“PROPERTY”), AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS: LOTNO.NINE(9),INBLOCK NO. TEN (10) OF MINGLEWOOD ADDITION TO THE CITY OF BEAUMONT, IN JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS, AS PER THE MAP OR PLAT OF RECORD IN VOLUME 7, PAGE 122 OF THE MAP RECORDS OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS.

NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 42 days after the date this citation was issued, a default judgment may be taken against you, the answer date being at or before 10 o’clock A.M. on Monday, February 05, 2024. In addition to filing a written answer with the clerk, you may be required to make initial disclosures to the other parties of this suit. These disclosures generally must be made no later than 30 days after you file your answer with the clerk. Find out more at TexasLawHelp. org Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’sOffice,1085PearlSt., Room 203, Beaumont, TX 77701,orbybringingittothe office. The case is presently pending before the 58th District Court of Jefferson County sitting in Beaumont, Texas, and was filed on the 9th day of January 2023. It bears cause number A210986 and is styled:

NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC vs. YADIRA PEREZ, ET AL

Thenameandaddressofthe attorney for plaintiff (or plaintiff if pro se) is:

JOSEPH VACEK

ROBERTSON ANSCHUTZ ET AL 5601 EXECUTIVE DR., STE. 400 IRVING, TX 75038

The nature of the demands of said plaintiff is shown by a true and correct copy of Plaintiff’s ORDER Signed accompanying this citation and made a part thereof.

Issued under my hand and the seal of said court, at Beaumont, Texas, this the 18th day of December 2023.

JAMIE SMITH, DISTRICT CLERK

JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS BY Rachel Shauberger, Rachel Shauberger, Deputy

of funds to claimants and discharge of Substitute Trustee/Interpleader from any liability.

THE STATE OF TEXAS

No. 23DCCV1205

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C.

Substitute Trustee/Interpleader, VS. DAVID BROADWELL AND JENNIFER E. MCCLEAN, Interpleader-Defendants

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE/ INTERPLEADER’S SUMMARY OF SUIT FOR CITATION BY PUBLICATION - PERSON

136TH DISTRICT COURT of JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: JENNIFER E. MCCLEAN DEFENDANT:

NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 42 days after the date this citation was issued, a default judgment may be taken against you, the answer date being at or before 10 o’clock A.M.onMonday,January29, 2024. In addition to filing a writtenanswerwiththeclerk, you may berequiredto make initialdisclosurestotheother parties of this suit. These disclosures generally must be made no later than 30 days after you file your answer with the clerk. Find out more at TexasLawHelp. org Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’sOffice,1085PearlSt., Room 203, Beaumont, TX 77701,orbybringingittothe office. The case is presently pending before the 136th District Court of Jefferson County sitting in Beaumont, Texas, and was filed on the 7th day of September 2023. It bears cause number 23DCCV1205 and is styled:

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. vs. DAVID BROADWELL, ET AL

The name and address of the attorney for plaintiff (or plaintiff if pro se) is:

ARNETTA J. PORTER

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. 16415 ADDISON ROAD, SUITE 725 ADDISON, TX 75001

The nature of the demands of said plaintiff is shown by a true and correct copy of Plaintiff’s Original Petition accompanying this citation and made a part thereof.

Marinosci Law Group, P.C.

(“Substitute Trustee/Interpleader”), by and through its attorney of record, Arnetta J. Porter or Marinosci Law Group, P.C., 16415 Addison Road, Suite 725, Addison, TX 75001, (972)331-2300, brought suit against David Broadwell and Jennifer E. McClean (“InterpleaderDefendants”), to interplead surplus funds in the amount of $38,460.76 for distribution

Issued under my hand and the seal of said court, at Beaumont, Texas, this the 13th day of December 2023.

JAMIE SMITH, DISTRICT CLERK JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS BY Erin Harper, Erin Harper, Deputy

THE STATE OF TEXAS No. 23DCCV0642

PATINA LOUIS VS. JACKIE MACKEY AND BLINE LOUIS

CITATION BY PUBLICATION

58TH DISTRICT COURT JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: BLINE LOUIS, OR HIS SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, DEFENDANT(S) INTHECAUSEDESCRIBED IN THIS CITATION DEFENDANT:

NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 42 days after the date this citation was issued, a default judgment may be taken against you, the answer date being at or before 10 o’clock A.M. on Monday, February 29, 2024. In addition to filing a written answer with the clerk, you may be required to make initial disclosures to the other parties of this suit. These disclosures generally must be made no later than 30 days after you file your answer with the clerk. Find out more at TexasLawHelp. org Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’sOffice,1085PearlSt., Room 203, Beaumont, TX 77701,orbybringingittothe office. The case is presently pending before the 58th DistrictCourtintheJefferson County Courthouse in Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, and was filed on the June 27, 2023. The cause number 23DCCV0642. It is styled:

PATINA LOUIS vs. JACKIE MACKEY AND BLINE LOUIS

Thenameandaddressofthe attorney for plaintiff (or plaintiff if pro se) is:

JONATHAN VERNON ATTORNEY AT LAW

215 ORLEANS STREET BEAUMONT, TX 77701

The petition discloses that the nature of the suit is as follows:

The suit is a suit for partition of the property, described as Lot2,Block18,ofPortArthur Heights Addition to the City of Port Arthur, Jefferson County, Texas, and that portion of Lot 1, Block 18, of Port Arthur Heights Addition totheCityofPortArthur,Jefferson County, Texas not deeded to the City of Port

Arthur in Instrument No. 8705576 of the Real Property Records of Jefferson County, Texas, by sale. Defendant(s) has(have) a purported interest inherited from Davine Louis in the property.

Issued under my hand and the seal of said court, at Beaumont, Texas, this the 22nd day of December 2023.

JAMIE SMITH, DISTRICT CLERK JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS BY Erin Harper, Erin Harper, Deputy

Notice of Claim of Adverse Interest

The undersigned, J’VonteJaVaughn, Trustee of the Abundant Life Family Trust, of majority age and fully competent to give testimony, give notice as follows:

I am in actual possession of the premises legally described as follows:

Subdivision: Fourth Street Acres

Legal Description: Fourth Street Acres N1/2 L1 B12

Property Location: c/o 3205 Cartwright Street, Beaumont, Texas Republic, 77701

Adverse entry was made on this land by J’VonteJaVaughn, Trustee of the Abundant Life Family Trust on November 22, 2023, and I have been in actual possession of this land continuously since November 22, 2023.

Thispossessionis,andforall of such period of time has been,adversetoanyclaimof any other person, including Linda Richard, Owner.

I am the only living man who has claimed any part of the above-mentioned land/ premises and has made improvements thereon.

I am now the owner of the above-mentioned land/ premises and have the legal and lawful right to remain the owner for the full statutory period prescribed by Texas Law.

This Affidavit of Adverse Possession does not and isn’tintendedtoSlanderTitle to the above-mentioned land/premises. It is solely intended to establish my Adverse Possession claim.

Further, Affiant sayeth not.

I state in Good Faith under the laws of Texas that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed on the 27th day of December 2023.

/s/ J’Vonte JaVaughn, Trustee

J’Vonte -JaVaughn, Trustee of the Abundant Life Family Trust

All Rights Reserved Without Prejudice, UCC 1-308

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Ronald Clair Mygrants, Deceased, were issuedonDecember6,2023, in Cause No. 23CCPR1224, pending in the County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to: Casey Lang Mygrants.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

Casey Lang Mygrants c/o: Michael J. Lindsay Lindsay, Lindsay & Parsons

710 North 11th Street Beaumont, TX 77702-1502

Telephone: (409) 833-1196

Facsimile: (409) 832-7040

DATED 6th day of December 2023.

/s/ Michael J. Lindsay

Michael J. Lindsay State Bar No.: 12368800

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Edith Jane MussonPeacock,Deceased, were issued on December 6, 2023, in Cause No. 23CCPR1226,pendinginthe County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to: Jerry Nelson Peacock.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

Jerry Nelson Peacock c/o: Michael J. Lindsay Lindsay, Lindsay & Parsons

710 North 11th Street Beaumont, TX 77702-1502

Telephone: (409) 833-1196

Facsimile: (409) 832-7040

DATED 6th day of December 2023.

/s/ Michael J. Lindsay

Michael J. Lindsay State Bar No.: 12368800

CAUSE NO. 128181

ESTATE OF TONY DAVIS OVILLE, DECEASED

§ IN THE COUNTY COURT OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF TONY DAVISOVILLE,DECEASED.

Administration of the Estate of TONY DAVIS OVILLE, deceased, commended by issuance of Original Letters of Independent Administration to Paulette Renee Lindsey on December 11, 2023,

by the County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, acting in Cause Number 128181, styled In the Estate of TONY DAVIS OVILLE, Deceased, in which Court the matter is pending.

All persons having claims against the estate are notified to present them to the undersigned at the address shown below within the time prescribed by law, who is the attorney for the Independent Executor set forth above

DATED the 14th day of December 2023.

Wm. Marcus Wilkerson, Attorney at Law

/s/ William Marcus Wilkerson William Marcus Wilkerson Texas Bar No. 24073708 595 Orleans Street, Suite 1115 Beaumont, TX 77701 Tel. (409) 212-9655 Fax (409) 212-9657 wmarcuswilkerson@gmail. com wmwilkersonlawoffice@ gmail.com

NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF BENARD H. MCCOY, DECEASED

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary were issued in the Estate of BENARD H. MCCOY, on December 4, 2023, in Cause No.122828, in the County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to DARRELL L. MCCOY.

The address of such Letters Testamentary is:

c/o Allen Parker 1720 Nederland Avenue Nederland, Texas 77627

All persons having claims against this Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them with in the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

DARRELL L. MCCOY, Independent Executor of the Estate of BENARD H. MCCOY, Deceased

NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF HELEN DIANNE SIMS, DECEASED

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary were issued in the Estate of HELEN DIANNE SIMS, on December 4, 2023, in Cause No.23CCPR1228, in the County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to KAREN WOMACKSIMSAKAKAREN WOMACK HOLSTINE.

The address of such Letters Testamentary is:

c/o Allen Parker 1720 Nederland Avenue Nederland, Texas 77627

All persons having claims against this Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them with in the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

KAREN WOMACK SIMS AKA KAREN WOMACK HOLSTINE, Independent Executrix of the Estate of HELEN DIANNE SIMS, Deceased

Notice is hereby given in accordance with the provisions of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code that Da Spot Frozen Daiquiri Shop, LLC has filed for a Wine and Malt Beverage Retailer’s OnPremise Permit to be issued at 1608 Glasshouse St., Beaumont, Jefferson County, TX.

Officers: Curtis Jackson –Managing Member Jerica Landy –Managing Member

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION

TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MARIE DENNIS WOODS, DECEASED

DEFENDANT(S) GREETING: YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable Probate County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, at the Courthouse in the City of Beaumont,atorbefore10:00 a.m. of the first Monday after the expiration of ten (10) days from the date of issuancethereof,samebeing Monday, 12/25/2023 then and there to answer the proceeding to declare heirship filed by Cynthia M. Dennis, Applicant, in said Court 12/11/2023 in Cause No. 23CCPR1481, styled, In the Estate of: Marie Dennis Woods, Deceased

A brief statement of the nature of the petition is as follows, to-wit:

DETERMINE THE HEIRS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE, SHARES & INTERESTS UNDER THE LAWS OF THIS STATE OR IN THE TRUST, AS APPLICABLE IN THE DECEDENT’S ESTATE

as is more fully shown by the petition on file in this cause. The officer executing this process shall promptly execute the same according

to law and make due return as the law directs. If this citation is not served within (90) days after day of issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Beaumont, Texas, on this 12th day of December 2023.

Roxanne Acosta-Hellberg, County Clerk Jefferson County, Texas

By Victoria Frasier, Victoria Frasier, Deputy Clerk

THE STATE OF TEXAS

No. F239214

IN THE MATTER OF THE MARRIAGE OF IAN JENKINS AND JOCELYN JENKINS

CITATION BY PUBLICATION

279thJUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: JOCELYN JENKINS AND TO ALL IT MAY CONCERN,

JOCELYN JENKINS RESPONDENT

NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 42 days after the date this citation was issued, a default judgment may be taken against you, the answer date being at or before 10 o’clock A.M.onMonday,January22, 2024. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 1001 Pearl St., 2nd Floor, Beaumont, TX 77701, or by bringing it to the office. The Petition of Ian Jenkins, Ian Ross Jenkins

was filed in the 279thFamily District Court of Jefferson County, Texas, on the 14th day of April 2021 against Jocelyn Jenkins RESPONDENT

numbered F239214 and entitled ‘In the Interest of:

IRELYN JENKINS

The nature the suit is a request for Petition to Modify Parent Child Relationship.

The date of birth of the CHILD who is the subject of the suit is as follows:

IRELYN JENKINS 01/25/2017

ISSUED and GIVEN under my hand and the seal of said court, at office, this the 7th day of December 2023.

Thecourthastheauthorityin

this suit to enter any judgment or decree in the interest of the CHILD will be binding upon you, including theterminationoftheparentchild relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the adoption of the CHILD.

Diane Herrera, Deputy

nature of the petition is as follows, to-wit:

JAMIE SMITH, DISTRICT CLERK JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

BY Diane Herrera, Deputy Diane Herrera, Deputy

THE STATE OF TEXAS No. C221182

JASMINE PATRICE LANDRY VS KEVIN WAYNE THOMAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION

317thJUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: JASMINE PATRICE LANDRY

AND TO ALL IT MAY CONCERN,

JASMINE PATRICE LANDRY RESPONDENT

NOTICE: You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 42 days after the date this citation was issued, a default judgment may be taken against you, the answer date being at or before 10 o’clock A.M.onMonday,January15, 2024. Said answer may be filed by mailing same to: District Clerk’s Office, 1001 Pearl St., 2nd Floor, Beaumont, TX 77701, or by bringing it to the office. The Petition of

Jasmine Patrice Landry; Kevin Wayne Thomas

was filed in the 317th Family District Court of Jefferson County, Texas, on the 28th day of November 2023 against

JASMINE PATRICE

LANDRY RESPONDENT

numbered C221182 and entitled ‘In the Interest of:

JASMINE FAYE THOMAS

The nature the suit is a requestforModifytheParent Child Relationship.

The date of birth of the CHILD who is the subject of the suit is as follows:

JASMINE FAYE THOMAS 10/28/2013

ISSUED and GIVEN under my hand and the seal of said court, at office, this the 1st day of December 2023.

Thecourthastheauthorityin this suit to enter any judgment or decree in the interest of the CHILD will be binding upon you, including theterminationoftheparentchild relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the adoption of the CHILD.

JAMIE SMITH, DISTRICT CLERK JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

BY Diane Herrera, Deputy

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION

TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS OF KIMBERLY SHANNON MCCOY, DECEASED

DEFENDANT(S) GREETING:

YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable Probate County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, at the Courthouse in the City of Beaumont,atorbefore10:00

a.m. of the first Monday after the expiration of ten (10) days from the date of issuancethereof,samebeing Monday, 01/01/2024 then and there to answer the proceeding to declare heirship filed by James L. McCoy,Sr.,Applicant,insaid Court 12/18/2023 in Cause No. 23CCPR1520, styled,

In the Estate of: Kimberly Shannon McCoy, Deceased

A brief statement of the nature of the petition is as follows, to-wit:

DETERMINE THE HEIRS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE, SHARES & INTERESTS UNDER THE LAWS OF THIS STATE OR IN THE TRUST, AS APPLICABLE IN THE DECEDENT’S ESTATE as is more fully shown by the petition on file in this cause.

The officer executing this process shall promptly execute the same according to law and make due return as the law directs. If this citation is not served within (90) days after day of issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Beaumont, Texas, on this 19th day of December 2023.

Roxanne Acosta-Hellberg, County Clerk Jefferson County, Texas

By Suzette Johnson Suzette Johnson, Deputy Clerk

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION

TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS OF BARON KEITH BANKS, DECEASED

DEFENDANT(S) GREETING:

YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable Probate County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, at the Courthouse in the City of Beaumont,atorbefore10:00 a.m. of the first Monday after the expiration of ten (10) days from the date of issuancethereof,samebeing Monday, 01/08/2024 then and there to answer the proceeding to declare heirship filed by Shannon Holmes, Applicant, in said Court 12/27/2023 in Cause No. 121302, styled, In the Estate of: Baron Keith Banks, Deceased

A brief statement of the

DETERMINE THE HEIRS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE, SHARES & INTERESTS UNDER THE LAWS OF THIS STATE OR IN THE TRUST, AS APPLICABLE IN THE DECEDENT’S ESTATE

as is more fully shown by the petition on file in this cause.

The officer executing this process shall promptly execute the same according to law and make due return as the law directs. If this citation is not served within (90) days after day of issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Beaumont, Texas, on this 28th day of December 2023.

Roxanne Acosta-Hellberg, County Clerk Jefferson County, Texas

By Suzette Johnson Suzette Johnson, Deputy Clerk

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION

TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JEFFREY WAYNE CRADDOCK, DECEASED

DEFENDANT(S) GREETING:

YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDED to appear before the Honorable Probate County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, at the Courthouse in the City of Beaumont,atorbefore10:00 a.m. of the first Monday after the expiration of ten (10) days from the date of issuancethereof,samebeing Monday, 01/15/2024 then and there to answer the proceeding to declare heirship filed by Carol Craddock Lucas, Applicant, in said Court 12/28/2023 in Cause No. 23CCPR1555, styled,

In the Estate of: Jeffrey Wayne Craddock, Deceased

A brief statement of the nature of the petition is as follows, to-wit:

DETERMINE THE HEIRS AND THEIR RESPECTIVE, SHARES & INTERESTS UNDER THE LAWS OF THIS STATE OR IN THE TRUST, AS APPLICABLE IN THE DECEDENT’S ESTATE

as is more fully shown by the petition on file in this cause.

The officer executing this process shall promptly execute the same according to law and make due return as the law directs. If this citation is not served within (90) days after day of issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued and given under my hand and seal of said Court at Beaumont, Texas, on this 29th day of December 2023.

Roxanne Acosta-Hellberg, County Clerk Jefferson County, Texas

By Trudy Grinnell Trudy Grinnell, Deputy Clerk

Entertainment SOUTHEAST TEXAS

Colossal night planned for La Soirée

By Chad Cooper Entertainment Editor

Uncover the magic of Rome, Italy as the Beaumont Civic Center is transformed into “ANight at the Colosseum” during Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Foundation’s La Soirée on Saturday, Jan. 27, at 6:30 p.m.

Dress to impress and experience a festive evening with music and entertainment that rivals that of the largest amphitheater ever built – the Colosseum, a massive stone amphitheater built to hold 50,000 spectators, which opened inA.D. 80. The structure still remains an iconic symbol of Rome.

Kim Moncla, Executive Director of Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Foundation, said the interior of the Civic Center will look totally different than any previous La Soirée events. “Each Soirée has its own character, which makes this event unique,” she said. “We try to be very immersive with it and there will be a lot of surprises, too.”

The décor will once again be impressive as will the Italian-inspired menu created by Bando’s that includes a variety of appetizers as well as rice balls, risotto, veal chops, gelato for dessert and so much more.

A myriad of performers befitting the theme will keep everyone entertained throughout the evening including a high-energy performance by the Party Crashers, who brings a consistent dynamism to the soirée every year. This seven-piece attraction will keep the dance floor packed all evening.

According to Moncla, this year’s theme was inspired by Jami and Stephen Lee, who are chairing the event. “Jami and Stephen visited Rome on an Italian holiday and stayed neared the Colosseum,” said Moncla. “Their room had a view of Colosseum and they raved how

beautiful and eternal the structure was.

“Stephen is a long time Foundation board member who brings a lot of energy. Jami is very creative and worked closely together with our Atmosphere Chair, Stephanie Rutledge, and Olivia Warner (Coordinator of Philanthropic Services). She selected the fabrics that will be used as decorations.”

The Lees are both graduates of Lamar University. Jami is a retired educator and Stephen is Chairman, CEO and President of First Financial Bank, NA –Southeast Texas Region. While attending Lamar, Stephen played four years for the Cardinal football program and started 33 consecutive games at center where he earned All-American status.

“Jami and I are thrilled and honored with the opportunity to chair the 2024 La Soirée Gala and are looking forward to another fantastic night on Jan. 27,” said Stephen Lee.

“We have always enjoyed La Soirée and the opportunity to support the Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Foundation. Our Foundation is actively engaged in supporting the expansion of our health care services to the residents of Southeast Texas and proceeds from the event will be directed to help expand and improve our grow-

ing oncology services. I am so proud of the work our Baptist Hospital physicians and health care professionals are doing here and hope La Soirée provides needed resources to help them continue to expand their impact across Southeast Texas.”

Tickets start at $250 each and table sponsorships range from $2,500 to $50,000. For tickets and underwriting opportunities, call (409) 212-6113 or view bhsetfoundation.org.

Proceeds from La Soirée will benefit the Baptist Hospitals Cancer Program and help create a new 43,000-square foot facility, state-of-the-art radiation treatment center, new onsite CT scanner with advanced technology, as 12,000-square foot infusion center, which doubles the current capacity, a 14,000-square foot medical oncology and radiation oncology, and a dedicated chapel.

One of the core missions of the Baptist Regional Cancer Network is to provide the highest quality care to patients and eliminate the need for those in Southeast Texas to travel to Houston for that care.

In addition, the Foundation also provides funding to meet patient needs.

“Thecommunity’ssupportisextremely vital and all proceeds stay local,” added Moncla. “Each project makes a huge difference in the lives of the patients and families served.”

Jami and Stephen Lee

The Colosseum in Rome

Swingin’ SinatraJared

Jan. 5-7, 8 p.m., 2 p.m. • Jones Hall, Houston • $48-$155Jan. Houston • $50-$150

A graduate of Penn State University with a degree in economics, Jared Fried hosts several highly-rated weekly podcasts – “U Up?” with Jordana Abraham, “JTrain,” which has more than 450,00 listeners per month and “Rose Rehash,” on Monday nights after “The Bachelor.” In 2019, he released his first full-length comedy album, “Always a Momma Bear” that debuted No. 1 on the iTunes Comedy chart. Just last year, Freid filmed his first comedy special for Netflix titled “Jared Freid: 37 & Single” at the Gramercy Theatre in New York City. Freid’s comedy has a strong focus on dating and relationships.

SETX Whiskey Festival

Swing into the New Year as charismatic crooner Tony DeSare and the Houston Symphony Big Band perform all your favorite Sinatra standards, including “Come Fly with Me,” “Luck Be a Lady,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” “The Best is Yet to Come,” “That’s Life,” “My Way,” and “New York, New York,” along with popular tunes from the golden age of Big Band and Swing. DeSare has lived up to this distinction by winning critical and popular acclaim for his concert performances. From jazz clubs to Carnegie Hall to Las Vegas and headlining major symphony orchestras, DeSare has brought his fresh take on old school class around the globe.

Elvis Birthday Bash

Saturday, Jan. 6, 6-8 p.m. • Pedro’s Taco & Tequila Bar, Port Arthur • Free Sat., Jan. 6, 6 p.m. • Civic Center, Beaumont • $79-$129

Dubbed the “largest whiskey and bourbon event in the Lone Star State,” this festival gives attendees the chance to taste premium spirits, mingle with fellow whiskey lovers and learn from the best in the whiskey and bourbon business. More than 400 bottles of fine whiskey and bourbon will be on display from more than 90 distillers from across the United States. Guests will also have a chance to win a number of high-end prizes including rare bottles of bourbon and whiskey, and more.All proceeds will support Cure Rare Disease, a nonprofit biotech that develops genetic medicines for children and people with life-threatening diseases.

Elvis Presley, “the King of Rock and Roll,” tragically passed away in 1977 at 42. Born on Jan. 8, 1935, Presley would have been 89 if still alive today. Fans of Elvis can celebrate with a performance by Elvis tribute artist and Lumberton native Jeff Rainey, who has performed at casinos, theaters, private parties and cruise ships around the country. Rainey pours out his heart and soul for each performance like Elvis did himself in “That’s the Way it Is,” “Aloha From Hawaii” and “Live From Madison Square Garden.” He’s even performed with Presley’s original backup singers, The Jordanaires.

New Year’s PopsOn Your Feet!

Sun., Jan. 7, 4 p.m. • The Grand, Galveston • $10-$40 Tues., Jan. 9, 7:30 p.m. • Lutcher Theatre, Orange • $35-$85

Founded in 1979, the Galveston Symphony Orchestra performs quality classical music with a strong commitment to artistic excellence and community involvement. Dedicated musicians from all parts of the Galveston-Houston area bring unforgettable live concert experiences to audiences. GSO’s new chamber ensemble is Fossekall, which features a Latin music/dance-inspired program that combines music, imagery, dance, and story-telling to produce an evening of pure magic. A “fossekall” is a plump little gray bird found along unpolluted rivers and streams, almost always near running water. With a repertoire of compositions ranging from the baroque to the contemporary, most concerts include internationally-famous soloists.

“On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan,” is an electrifying production that chronicles the remarkable journey of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, the Grammy Award-winning power couple who took the music world by storm. From humble beginnings in Cuba, to topping the charts with their infectious rhythms and soulful melodies, this Broadway musical celebrates the Estefan’s extraordinary lives, music and the unwavering spirit that fueled their rise to stardom. Hear the hits “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “1-2-3” and many more. This musical is a celebration of love, perseverance and the universal language of music that has touched hearts worldwide.

Top grossing movies of 2023

As 2023 came to a close, the receipts are in for the highest grossing films of the year as $8.7 billion was spent globally on movie theater tickets. According to boxofficemojo.com, here’s what flicks made the list. For those wondering, “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” was No. 21 globally at $250 million and 10th domestically with $179 million sold at the box office.

1. “Barbie”

Released July 21, “pink power” set the record book ablaze at $1.4 billion in sales, which included $636 million in the United States alone. It grossed ninetimes the amount of its budget. Warner Bros. dubbed it, “Barbillion.”

2. “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”

Released April 5, Mario and Luigi earned $1.3 billion ($574 million domestically). The pixelated film became the highest-grossing movie based on a video game and third-highest animated ever. Who would have thought a plumber and his brother trying to save a princess could do big business?

3. “Oppenheimer”

Released July 21 alongside “Barbie,” many deemed the weekend “Barbenheimer.” The story of American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer and his role in the development of the atomic bomb grossed $951.4 million globally and $326 million in the U.S. It’s the highest-grossing biographical film ever, the highest-grossing World War II film, and the second-highest R-rated film of all time behind “Joker.”

4. “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”

Released May 5, the third installment of this series did a whopping $845 million ($358 million domestically). The “space misfits,” led by Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) defended the universe along with Rocket, the racoon.

5. “Fast X”

Released May 19, “Fast X” was the 10th film of the series, “The Fast & Furious.”Theall-starcrewofVinDiesel,Michelle Rodriguez, John Cena, Charlize Theron, Tyrese Gibson, Jason Statham and Jason Momoa topped $707 million globally, but only $146 million in the U.S., which ranked 10th domestically.

6. “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”

Released June 2, the animated Super Hero film cashed in $684 million worldwide and $381 million in the U.S. The sequel surpassed its predecessor, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” by nearly $300 million. It easily became Sony Pictures Animations highest-earner.

7. “The Little Mermaid”

Released May 26, Disney’s live-action remake of the 1989 animated original hauled in $568 million globally and $298 million domestically. It was budgeted for $240 million and wasn’t close to Disney’s 2017-billion-dollar baby,

“Beauty and the Beast.”

8. “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One”

Released July 12, Tom Cruise was back for the seventh film of the “Mission: Impossible” series that globally cashed in at 567 million ($172 million domestically). It was described by “Variety” as a “box office disappointment.” Part two will be released May 23, 2025.

9. “Elemental”

Released June 16, Pixar’s tale was about Ember (fire) and Wade (water) who live in a city where fire, water-, earth- and air-residents live together. It grossed $479 million worldwide and $154 million domestically.

10. “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania”

Released Feb. 17, this Super Hero movie was the sequel to “Ant-Man” of 2015 and “Ant-Man and the Wasp” of 2018. The lukewarm buzz was worth $476 million around the world and $214 million in the U.S. It was the 31st film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

January 5 Regal

‘Barbie’ (Warner Bros. Pictures)

BOCCAFELICE

Fri.,Jan.5:HunterCourts

BULLFISH

Sat.,Jan.6:ReedPlanchard

Tues.,Jan.9:DannyDillon

DYLAN’S(PORTARTHUR)

Thurs.,Jan.4:EzraPedraza

Fri.,Jan.5:BryceKirby&Vick Butler

Sat.,Jan.6:4-WaySplit

Sun.,Jan.7:BrettWelch

GOLDENNUGGET (LAKECHARLES,LA)

Thurs.,Jan.4:JohnnyJimenez (BlueMartini),DaniLaCour(Rush Lounge)

Fri.,Jan.5:ElectricCircus(Blue), HipDeep(Rush)

Sat.,Jan.6:ElectricCircus(Blue), HipDeep(Rush)

Sun.,Jan.7:RhettAnthony(Rush)

Mon.,Jan.8:Bubba(Rush)

Tues.,Jan.9:LoganSoileau(Rush)

Wed.,Jan.10:CoryLandry(Rush)

JEFFERSONCO.DANCECLUB (NEDERLAND)

Sun.,Jan7:DavidBurnham&Texas Thunder

To submit live music, email cooper@theexaminer.com.

Chesnutt,whoisthesonofcountrylegendandoriginalBeaumontBoyMarkChesnutt,beganperforming atanearlyage.Hewentontowinmultipletalent showswhileattendingHardin-JeffersonHighSchool, butthenputhissingingcareeronholdtoservehis countryintheUnitedStatesMarineCorps,wherehe wasaninfantryriflemanandlaterasergeant.After servingfiveyears,CaseyreturnedtoBeaumontwith hiswifeClaireandlaunchedhispathofwritingand recordingmusicforhisdebutalbum,“DownMexico Way,”whichincludedhisfirsthitsingle,“EvenTexas Couldn’tHoldHer.”In2023,hejoinedhisdadonthe iconicBillyBob’sstageinFortWorth.

MACKENZIE’SPUB

Thurs.,Jan.4:BrittGodwin

MADISON’S

Fri.,Jan.5:ChrisHantz

Sat.,Jan.6:EthanOsborne&

KODY WEST

FromtheNorthTexastownofDenton,KodyWestburstonto thesceneinApril2017withhisdebutalbum“Green.”The successofthatalbumquicklygainedalargefollowingof loyalfansashespentthelastsixyearsheadliningshows andservingasthesupportingactforartistssuchasCharlie Robinson,WhiskeyMyersandKoeWetzel.Westwillacousticallyperformsongsoffhisdebutrecordaswellashissophomorerelease,“Overgrown.”Allticketsincludedinner.

ColtonHorner

MICASA(ORANGE)

Thurs.,Jan.4:BradBrinkley

RANCHOGRANDE (PORTARTHUR)

Fri.,Jan.5:WayneDylan

RAYBURNCOUNTRYRESORT (BROOKELAND)

Sat.,Jan.6:ToddHowardBand

RIKENJACK’S(VIDOR)

Sat.,Jan.6:BradBrinkley

TEXASROSESALOON

Thurs.,Jan.4:EthanOsborne

Fri.,Jan.5:ChrisSmith

Sat.,Jan.6:TRoy

THELOGONCAFÉ

Fri.,Jan.5:MudFlats

THESAWDUST

Fri.,Jan.5:RunningonCredit

THESILVERFOX(BRIDGECITY)

Sun.,Jan.7:JulianPrimeauxTrio

THETREE(LUMBERTON)

Tues.,Jan.9:CaseyChesnutt

THEVENUEATBELLEOAKS

Fri.,Jan.5:KodyWest

THEWHEELHOUSE (PORTNECHES)

Sat.,Jan.6:DoubleDee

Sun.,Jan.7:DoubleDee

TIAJUANITA’S(PORTARTHUR)

Sun.,Jan.7:HunterCourts

Wed.,Jan.10:WayneDylan

TIAJUANITA’S(ORANGE)

Thurs.,Jan.4:WayneDylan

Fri.,Jan.5:ScottMcGill

Sat.,Jan.6:ChloeOverstreet

Wed.,Jan.10:BlakeSticker

HOUSTON

DOSEY DOE (THE WOODLANDS)

Thurs., Jan. 4: Mackenzie Phillips Fri., Jan. 5: Bubba Reeves Sat., Jan. 6: Back in Black (AC/DC)

HOUSE OF BLUES

Thurs., Jan. 4: Slaughter Beach Dog Tues., Jan. 9: Reason

STEREO LIVE (EDM) Sat., Jan. 6: Lny Tnz

THE IMPROV (COMEDY) Fri., Jan. 5: Jared Freid

Sat., Jan. 6: Jared Freid

Sun., Jan. 7: Jared Freid

WHITE OAK MUSIC HALL Fri., Jan. 5: Another Run

Friday, Jan. 5, 6 p.m. • The Venue at Belle Oaks • $29+

Tues., Jan. 9, 6 p.m. � The Tree, Lumberton • Free

Courtesy photo

Social studies

Waving goodbye to 2023 and soaring into 2024. It’s always special to reflect back on all of the social events and peruse the photos taken last year. Here’s to a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year and a stroll down memory lane with all of the fun times had by all. While there were too many fun-raising happenings to recall, hope the following will jog a marvelous memory for you.

Out & About with Albert Nolen

Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Foundation hosted their first La Soirée gala since 2020 on Jan. 28, at the Civic Center. Chairpersons for the area’s “Party of the Year” were Melissa and Chris Fisher. Anayat House annual Gala took place on Feb. 3 at the Event Centre with a theme of “Wonder Women of Southeast Texas.” Physicians honored were Jane Angel, Lunny Torres-Barja, Brandy Bergeron, Laurie Jansky, Seema Kansara, Jennifer Kresta, Waheeda Mithani, Deborah Sherman, Lauree Thompson, T. Renee Brown-Nembhard and Janna Nunez Gussman. Lamar University’s Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner was held Feb. 24 with a reception and dinner on the 8th Floor of the Mary and John Gray Library. The honorees

were Hester Bell (1961), Carl Griffith (1981, 1983 and 1987), George J. Hirasaki (1963) and Fred Vernon II (2012 and 2013). The Julie Roger Gift of Life annual Champagne and Ribs also returned as an in-person event with a “Yee Haw” soirée March 9 at the Civic Center. The event also shed light on exceptional community trailblazers including Bishop Emeritus Curtis Guillory, Brad Klein, Bill Scott, Mitch Smith and Chelsea Tipton II Event co-chairs were Mike Roebuck, Verna Rutherford and Tim Sudela. Honorary co-chairs were John Adolph, Mark Kubala, Joe Penland and Bob Wortham. It was a night of dancing for a cause as socials packed the sold-out Civic Center on March 3 for the Junior League of Beaumont’s popular “Dancing with the Stars of Southeast Texas” fundraiser. First place was awarded to Sadé Chick and Everett Green. The crowd selected April Tolbert and Andrew McClusky as the fan favorites! Lamar University’s 100-year Centennial LU Celebration Le Grand Bal was March 23. President Emeritus Jimmy Simmons entertained with his clarinet and Interim Dean of Fine Arts Gold-

en Wright welcomed the group then recognized past chairs Laura and Craig Escamilla, Dean Terrebonne, Kim Steinhagen, Rusty Chimeno, Charlene Babineaux, Sandra Clark, Sandy and Joseph Fertitta, Melanie Dishman, Melody Parsons, Paige Windham, Marty Craig, Patti McSpadden, Michelle and Mitch Smith, and yours truly. Hats off to Michelle and Janey Phelan for the amazing atmosphere. Jeff Branick was named Neches River Festival LXXV Citizen of the Year and King Neches LXXV was Steve McGrade last April. Neches River Festival Queen Josie Broussard was crowned at the NRF Coronation. She is the daughter of Monica and Jimmy Broussard. On an enchanted evening ofApril 15, the Christus Southeast Texas Foundation hosted their 40th annual Gala at the Civic Center with chairs Sally and Randy Lombardo. After an hour of cocktails and conversation, the revelers settled in for dinner and were then entertained by famed Country music star Wynonna Judd. What a night celebrating the Art Museum of Southeast Texas at their annual “Light Up the Night” Gala on Sept. 15. Kudos to honorees Gerald Farha, Sandra Clark and Jamie Kessler for all of their previous support of the museum.” The Ameri-

can Cancer Society hosted their Cattle Baron’s Ball western-themed “party with a purpose” on Nov. 11. Together with an amazing committee and ACS staff partner Kathy Chessher, Shelly and Carl Vitanza helped plan an amazing evening. Honored were Mike and Katherine Williams (Longhorn Liquor) and Mike’s father, Dennis Williams. The annual Garth House “Pour Les Enfants,” chaired by the dynamic Amy Morgan Pyburn, was a tremendous fundraiser Nov. 15. Hats off to the sensational success of these 2023 fundraisers and soirées!

Candles and cakes… belated best to Leo Danna, Mark Fertitta and Rosie Babin. B-day wishes to Daniel Todd, Jeremy Newton, MaryWilliams, Pat Dyson, Hannah Persia Smith, Larry Wood, David Hearne, Allison Reho, Caroline Kinsel White, Elizabeth Wallace, Mary Donaldson, Holly Hunstiger, Lyle Rayburn, Taylor Neild, John Scott, Lindi Messina, Isaac Warren, Erika Ducote, Gloria Moore, Bill Hodges, Keith Domec, Dale Wilson, Charlie Howell, Michael Sitzman, Frank Celli, Ralph Singleton, Kathy Chessher, Clif Walker, Elaine Henderson and Suzette Broussard.

Until the next RSVP!

▪ Comprehensive Audiometric Evaluations

▪ Hearing aid selection and fitting

▪ Noise protection and swim molds

▪ Industrial testing

▪ Hearing aid repairs

▪ Audiometer calibrations

▪ Financing options available

▪ We accept private insurance

Christy Phelan Greig, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Cole Phelan Simon, BS Hearing Aid Consultant

James G. Phelan, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Belles and Beaus

Symphony Belle & Beau Ball

OUT & ABOUT

WHAT: Baptist Hospital Foundation’s ‘La

WHERE: Beaumont Civic Center

WHEN: January 2023

Preston Moncla, Kim Moncla, Cassie Tolin and Leon Moncla

Ariana and Christopher Bates

Marsha and Greg Dykeman

Melissa and Chris Fisher

Susan and Wayne Margolis

Robin and Lynn Johnson

Soirée’

OUT & ABOUT

Baptist Hospital Foundation’s ‘La Soirée’ • Continued from page 8B

Robin and Bryan ChandlerJohnnie and Vernon Durden

Welcome to your Dream Home! Nestled on the prestigious Bellechase Drive, this perfect blend of classic charm & modern sophistication is an inviting atmosphere for you & your guests. Step inside and prepare to be amazed by the spaciousness & attention to detail. The foyer welcomes you into an open floor plan that seamlessly connects the main living areas, providing the perfect flow for entertaining and everyday living. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the gourmet kitchen, featuring a Jenn-Air gas cooktop, double oven, granite countertops, ample cabinets and a convenient center island. The master suite is a private retreat of generous proportions with spa-like en suite

a

area. Don't miss this incredible opportunity!

WHAT: Lamar University Distinguished Alumni Awards WHERE: Mary & John Gray Library WHEN: January 2023

Baptist Hospital Foundation’s ‘La Soirée’ • Continued from page 9B

Wafa and Fred Vernon II

George and Darlene Hiraski

Carl and Lori Ryerkerk-Griffith

Rodney and Becky Ames

OUT & ABOUT

WHAT:

Junior League of Beaumont’s ‘Dancing with the Stars of Southeast Texas’

WHERE: Beaumont Civic Center

WHEN: March 2023

Lamar University Distinguished Alumni Awards • Continued from page 10B

Sally House, Dora Nisby and Hester BellEverett Green and Sadé Chick

April Tolbert and Andrew McCluskyTim and Brittney Ferguson

Emily Wheeler and Ashley MiskoKelli and Qamar Arfeen

Regina Rogers, Sheila Umphrey and Becky Hunter

Bill Scott and John Henderson

OUT & ABOUT

WHAT: Lamar University’s Le Grand Bal WHERE: Dishman Art Museum/Setzer Center WHEN: March 2023

Gift of Life’s ‘Champagne & Ribs’ • Continued from page 12B

Christy Persia and Brad KleinKevin

Roy and Bishop Curtis Guillory

Molly and Frank Messina, Dianne Duperier, Pete RossomondoStacy and Jaime Taylor

Joseph and Sandy FertittaJo Vance, Jimmy and Susan Simmons

OUT & ABOUT

Lamar University’s Le Grand Bal • Continued from page 13B

Laura and Craig Escamilla

Grand Duchess Evei Shipley, Second Lady in Waiting Olivia Johnson, Queen Mary Joseph Broussard, King Steve McGrade, First Lady in Waiting Peyton Tyner and Third Lady in Waiting Mary Guillory

Randy Lombardo, Joe Penland Sr., Teri Hawthorne and Mark SckobelPaul Trevino and Bishop David Toups

Zack and Janis SheltonShaheen and Kerri Farah

WHAT: Neches River Festival LXXV Royal Court

Julie Rogers Theatre

WHAT: Christus Foundation Gala WHERE: Beaumont Civic Center

April 2023

OUT & ABOUT

WHAT: ‘Light Up the Night Gala’

WHERE: Art Museum of Southeast Texas

WHEN: September 2023

WHAT: American Cancer Society’s ‘Cattle Baron’s Ball’

WHERE: Civic Center

WHEN: September 2023

Christus Foundation Gala • Continued from page 14B

Susan and Jordan ReeseJulie Casanova and Gerald Farha

Carol Butner, Keaton O’Neal and Sandra ClarkWill and Gillian Jenkins, Jeff McManus

Lee Ann and Terry GarthBob and Kelli Phillips

Colin Garrett, Kathy Chessher and Natasha GarrettMike Williams, Carl Vitanza, Katherine Williams and Shelly Vitanza

Terri and Lee PotterTim Rushlow, Elaine Henderson, Larry Stewart and Richie McDonald

Savory selections of 2023

By Chad Cooper Entertainment Editor

The Weekly Dish is a place to spotlight the best things to eat in Southeast Texas and 2023 failed to disappoint. Multiple restaurants opened including the highly-anticipated Riverside Grille in downtown Beaumont on Crockett Street.

Restauranters Allen Perkins and Jay Jenkinson launched the new concept, which once housed Spindletop Restaurant and the Spindletop Steakhouse, which was the corner fixture for lunch at dinner during the hay-days of the Crockett Street Entertainment District. The old Spindletop Restaurant was demolished to the studs, so that the state-of-the-art Riverside Grille could be built to exact specifications. Everything is brand new, with a completely open kitchen, allowing guests to witness a team of talented chefs demonstrate their passion for creating exceptional dishes that includes

gourmet burgers and sandwiches, Southern classics, fresh fish and aged steaks.

Chef Antoine Ware, of Houston, purchased both Beaumont locations of New York Pizza & Pasta. The store at 4405 Calder Ave. was transformed into Bocca Felice Italian Cuisine and delivered delicious plates like shrimp tortellini, seared salmon, mushroom ravioli and grilled chicken marsala. The favorites of NYP&P are still available for all to enjoy.

The crowded corridor of College Street near Interstate-10 has been buzzing thanks to the addition of Layne’s Chicken Fingers, which took over the shortlived Rex’s Chicken at 3635 College St. Those chicken fingers are mighty tasty, too.

BeaumontOzenHighSchoolalumandentrepreneur

Deondre Moore opened The Park on Calder. Located at 2325 Calder Ave., the former home to Luke’s was given a complete indoor/outdoor rehaul including turf

and custom-made phone booth by Joe Bonner.

Truth Lounge & Bistro opened in downtown Beaumont at 672 Orleans St. The Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are “must haves.”

Other spots that opened in Beaumont in 2023 were Las Cazuelas Mexican Food (790 Neches St.), Jones Old Fashion Sausage and Restaurant (2950 S. 4th St.) and Essence Restaurant & Lounge (7150 Eastex Freeway).

The popular Yellow Rose Meat Market in Winnie expanded to Hardin County with a location in Lumberton at 467 N LHS Drive.

Mid County also saw a flurry of openings. Al Judice IV, the fourth-generation restauranteur of the famed Judice family and the brains behind Judice’s 1927 and Judice’s Cajun Café, embarked on a true family tradition – a butcher shop. 1927 Meat Company (the 1927 comes from the year the Judices opened their first store in Port Arthur) is located at 3500 Nederland Ave. in Nederland.

Redbird BBQ, which has been doing pop-up spots, transitioned to a brick-and-mortar restaurant. Owner Amir Jalali, a graduate of Port Neches-Groves High School, is now cooking up his barbeque, sides, banana pudding and homemade house rolls are available every day. The location is 1108 Port NechesAve.

Also opening were MOD Pizza (8460 Memorial Blvd.), Lucky Wing House (3350 Jimmy Johnson Blvd.) and the all-you-can-eat Yuka Sushi (8680 Memorial Blvd.)

While many celebrated openings, we also said goodbye to some of our favorites.

Hundreds of patrons rushed to J.B.’s Barbeque Restaurant in Orange last January after owners J.B. and Mary Arrington announced they were closing the popular BBQ joint after 50 years.

The Red Wagon Café in Vidor served its final dish April 2. Owner Sherry Mills and her staff were known for all-you-can-eat buffets, steam tables and great breakfast.

Sha Bebe Cajun Café, Steak ‘n Shake, and Logan’s Roadhouse all closed.

Ending on a positive note, Lumberton resident Brandi Wolfe was named the Biggest DQ Fan in Texas as she beat out more than 6,700 contenders. Wolfe received free food, DQ swag, and a fun celebration at the Dairy Queen in Lumberton.

Madeira Chicken at Riverside Grille

Mushroom Ravioli at Bocca Felice

Layne’s Chicken Fingers

Cyclamen

Such a beautiful flower, with her vibrant colors and sweet fragrance. And this beauty loves cold weather so is the perfect choice for our “holiday season.” It is true dedication and gardening acumen if you see a huge planted area of cyclamen in our triangle of Texas.Alas, the cyclamen doesn’t like heat or damp feet so she insists on being replanted each and every year. But it is worth it!

“Cyclamen is an ancient flower, and some think it can be identified in prehistoric cave drawings. It was certainly known during the first few centuries of the Christian era when it was put to many medicinal uses. Dioscorides, a first century Greek surgeon and naturalist, wrote of the plant’s therapeutic values. In the sixteenth century, an Italian traveling in Greece discovered the Dioscorides manuscripts.”

One entire chapter is devoted to the medicinal uses of cyclamen. I don’t suggest it, but the ancient book says that you can make juice out of the root to inhale to clear your head. Also, the juice of the squeezed roots can be cooked until thickened like

honey and used to “purge and clean the skin and make hair grow again.” Well, the recommendations go on and on. If you want more on this subject you can check out a very thorough contribution on cyclamen with “Pacific Horticulture” by Mary Wilbur a few years ago.

I’ve read in floral lore that cyclamen was, with the Columbine, one of the flowers of choice for Leonardo Da Vinci at the beginning of the 16th century. He covered the margins of his manuscripts with it. Also, Louis XIV, who could have any flower, received them in bunches to flower the lounges of Versailles. Then cyclamen seemed to be forgotten during the 18th century to be rediscovered in the 1800s in gardens near Paris. It is regarded in the “Language of Love” as a flower that represents sincere feelings of affection and love.

The cyclamen is such an interesting plant in that it has a tuber under that beautiful outcropping of fragile looking petals. I have heard that some of our local energetic gardeners have even dug up and stored their cyclamen tubers in late spring, stored them and replanted in the fall as temperatures drop. Now that is dedication!

Cyclamen at Christmas has a history that began in the Holy Land where this interesting flower originated. The most available variety we can find here is cyclamen persicum

with its glorious color block petals.

Cyclamen is believed to have a growing history in the Middle East in countries like Syria, Palestine, IsraelandGreece,whereitisrevered.

The name cyclamen comes from the Greek word “kuklos” (Big Fat Greek Wedding) which literally means “circle” because of the plants circular tuber and circular bloom habit. They are part of the primrose family. It is estimated that there are 20 various species of cyclamen plants that are blooming around the world.

Plant her where she gets the morning sun, keep her well moistened and enjoy the compliments.

Look for cyclamen with her delicate white, pink, red or violet flowers to share with someone you love at Christmas and to add to your own space.

A Poem of cyclamen for Lourdes in memory of Dr. Diaz-Saldana

“They are fragile, pale apparitions among stones after the heavy rains as if to tell us, ‘We’re back, you have to take notice.’

Rosy and white like spun sugar wings about to take off we let these tremblings alert us again to possibility.”

– Shirley Kaufman

If you have questions or comments about anything gardening, email Joette at joreger@msn.com.

Your Garden with Joette Reger

Deer camp is totally unpredictable

Outdoors with Robert Sloan

The ranch that I’ve been deer hunting on for decades is in the Hill Country near Lampasas. It covers about 3,100 acres and is loaded with deer and pigs.

There are only five of us that hunt this particular working ranch. The only working part is when we have to round up the cattle to take to auction. The money from that debacle goes towards paying the taxes on the land. Most recently we rounded up about 40 cows and one bull. The bull was particularly angry at us for ruining his day afield with so many cows and no other competition. To make a long story short I was on the gate that led to the trailer for transporting cattle to the auction. We had most of the cows in the trailer, and then it came time to persuade the bull to head up the ramp and into the trailer. Instead of going up the ramp he decided to come right at me. I started climbing up the coral gate and suddenly I was in the air. The bull used his horns to clip both my feet off the gate railing. I landed on my back in the hard dirt, busted my head open and knocked me out for a few seconds. Fortunately, the bull backed up and went into the trailer. I have never liked rounding up cattle because anything is possible.

The big thing at any deer camp is starting and evening fire and usual-

ly cooking big steaks over the coals. And as you might expect there is always a little drinking going on. Well, one night a few years ago one of the guys around the fire, one that is usually roaring, stood up and tumbled right into the fire and smashed his head on a rock. We managed to pull him out of the fire, and patched him up. It made for some really good conversation the next day.

Game wardens are always visiting deer camps. That’s what they do to make sure nobody is getting seriously crazy, and that deer are tagged properly and everybody has a license to hunt. I’ve got a friend that has a deer lease in South Texas. A few weeks ago they were inside fixing dinner when there was a knock at the door. It was eight p.m. and kind of unexpected. Two game wardens were at the door. As usual they were there to make sure all the hunters had a license. Everything was going well, and as the wardens were about to walk out the door, they look at one guy and asked to see his license. He was about 30 years old and politely said he didn’t have, and that he had been hunting. Long story short, he had to pay $750 in fines for not having a license and also shooting a doe. Not only did he pay the ticket but had his deer confiscated and donated to a

needy family.

Snakes are always a problem at deer camps. Last season I was about to step off of my four-wheeler, and as I looked up the concrete steps leading into the cabin there coiled up was a rattle snake. Talk about a close encounter with calamity that was it. At that point I was about a foot from stepping on the toxic critter.

On another occasion we were all sitting around a campfire one night. I looked over and about two feet from me was about a five-foot rattler slithering along the base of a concrete wall. How I didn’t have a heart attack at time is beyond me.

The best thing about a deer camp is getting up before dawn and heading afield with a rifle.About this time of year sitting in a deer blind is a good way to see all kinds of animals that include bucks, pigs and turkeys. And there is the occasional fox and coyote. But there is nothing better than seeing a buck. That’s why we do what we do, and being able to tag out on something like that is why hunters spend millions of bucks each year on a chance to harvest deer and fill the freezer with some very tasty and healthy venison.Also, there is all that time sitting around a camp fire with friends and family. That is what I call total escape from the real world.

Robert Sloan for The Examiner

This is the reason for the season on deer across Texas. And each hunt is nothing but outdoor adventure with a chance to put a trophy class buck on the wall.

ACROSS

1 Using the bow, in music

5 Guesstimate

9 XXX

13 Private retreat, of a sort

17 Charged exclamation during a court trial

18 ‘‘La ____ de los Espiritus,’’ debut novel for Isabel Allende

19 Littlest sucklings

21 Contents of a pot

22 Ancient landmark whose name translates to ‘‘high city’’

24 Shadow

25 Reporter’s coup

26 One who’s not afraid to brag

29 Fermented honey concoction

30 Let

31 Bygone Seattle hoopsters

34 Sympathize with

36 Computer command

38 What you might get when you purchase Christmas ornaments on Dec. 26

40 Part of a sleigh

41 Contraction that’s a homophone of 13-Across

42 Lover of Hero, in Greek myth

BY DREW SCHMENNER / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ

44 With significance

46 In the manner of

47 ‘‘Ithaca is ____’’ (punny slogan)

48 Actress Diana of ‘ ‘The Avengers’’

51 Arthur Ashe Courage Award, for one

52 Number of lords a-leaping

53 Surprise birthday parties often involve them

54 Quantity of beer ... or monkeys?

56 Max or X

58 Name of Lincoln’s favorite dog

59 Branding need

60 ____ buco

61 End of autumn?

64 Highly prized collectibles, in lingo

65 Bad design feature for a Christmas stocking?

67 Fourth word in ‘‘Jingle Bells’’

68 Hurt

70 Take a risk

71 ‘‘Illmatic’’ rapper

72 Skateboard tricks started by kicking with the back foot

73 Dry, as Italian wine

75 O’er and o’er

78 Bring on board

80 Actress Skye

81 Barks, perhaps

85 Fixes, as broken 93-Down

87 Scary sight at the beach

88 Olympic gymnast Korbut

89 Sign of approval

92 Kim’s ex, in tabloids

93 Formal ‘‘you,’’ in Spain

95 Muffle

97 Actress Wen of ‘‘The Mandalorian’’

99 Dude, in modern slang

100 Workers seen in five squares in this puzzle?

106 Make ends meet

108 End of turn?

109 Binds tightly

110 Speedy Northeast train

111 Topples (over)

112 ‘‘____ Misbehavin’’’

113 Relative of a cassowary

114 Midnight Mass leader

115 Hurdle for a prospective J.D.

116 Some cats, chameleons and chinchillas

117 Locale of the final scene in ‘‘Vertigo’’ DOWN

1 ‘‘Regrettably ... ’’

2 Like Ebenezer Scrooge

6 ‘‘The Winter’s ____’’

7 Clearance-sale warning

8 Iconic features of ‘‘Under Pressure’’ and ‘‘Come Together’’

9 What awaits a tragic hero

10 Bactrian pair

11 Hereditary

12 Walked assuredly

13 Brings to a boil

14 Colorful background

15 Uncle ____ (‘‘Seinfeld’’ character)

16 Madrid’s home, in the Olympics

20 Uncle ____

21 Regarding

23 Tree in ‘‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’’

27 Dispatches

28 Capital just below the 60th parallel

32 Musical style associated with Harry Belafonte

33 What a filthy mess!

34 Order

35 Magazine based in Paris

36 Record kept on an employee

37 What transforms Bruce Banner into the Hulk

39 Spongy dessert

42 Article of clothing that might be decorated with candy canes

49 Goddess of the rainbow

50 [I’ve had enough!]

54 Puts to sleep, say

55 Analyzes, as a metaphor

57 ‘‘The Bells’’ poet

58 Two or three

63 No longer at the top of one’s game 64 Destruction 66 Aphrodite’s frequent companion

69 ‘‘Hustlers’’ star, familiarly

72 She/____

76 ____ gras

77 Incline

79 Breezy, as a book

81 Incline

83 Word added to the Pledge of Allegiance in 1954

84 ‘‘____ everyone?’’

Mononymous Irish singer

Solutions on page 23B

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 4,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

82 Mr. Potter vis-à-vis George Bailey, in ‘‘It’s a Wonderful Life’’

83 ‘‘King Lear’’ daughter

3 Sweet custardy concoction

4 Start of a well-known address in Verona

5 Dress down

Dear Annie:

When I was growing up, my father used to tell my brothers and sisters and me how important it was to set New Year’s resolutions. He would write down one or two goals for the coming year, and then periodically tell us how he was doing over the months that followed. Some years he failed, but more often than not, he managed to reach his goals. What I remember most about him was his optimism. No matter how bad the year, he was always convinced that the future would be better. It has been six years since he died, and I miss him every day. But I especially miss him during the holidays, when he would tell us to expect great things in the upcoming year.

Too many people are cynical these days, and most of my friends scoff at the idea of setting New Year’s resolutions. I don’t care, though, because of my dad. I love setting them and being happy with my progress, regardless of whether I reach all my goals.When I have children of my own, I plan to pass along this

43 Full of sex or profanity, maybe

45 Business-card no.

47 Beam

tradition. I am writing to share my story and to ask for your thoughts about New Year’s resolutions. – Inherited Optimist

Dear Optimist:

It sounds like your father was a wonderful man and that his optimistic outlook was invaluable in your upbringing. I’m going to use your letter as an opportunity to offer 10 suggestions for reaching your New Year’s resolutions:

1. Write down your resolutions. This will help you focus.

2. Be practical with your goals. Setting small, realistic goals will help you build confidence to seek greater goals later.

3. Watch how you speak to yourself about yourself and your progress. Positive self-talk is a must.

4. Set aside some uninterrupted time to really think about what it is that you would like to achieve in 2024.

5. Don’t beat yourself up if you slip. Live one day at a time. If you backslide, start anew the next day.

6. Track your progress. Even small victories are worth celebrating.

7. Reward yourself when you have achieved any of your goals.

8. Stay the course even if it challenges you. It takes 21 days for a new behavior to become a habit and six months for it

59 Big name in book publishing since 1817

60 ‘‘God bless us, every ____!’’

61 1040 fig.

62 Down, at the casino

73 Fictional band fronted by David St. Hubbins

74 Start of a playground rhyme

75 Not custom, as merchandise

86 Heart diagnostic, in brief

90 Heineken brand

91 Floral symbols of purity

93 See 85-Across 94 First-class

to become part of your personality, so be patient and kind to yourself.

9. Spread the news. Tell your friends and family members about your goals so that they can hold you accountable. Partnership leads to progress. If a friend or family member has the same goal, then you could work to achieve it together.

10. Be persistent and never give up. Your father is right. This next year will be our best ever! Happy New Year, everyone!

Dear Annie:

Recently, I retired from youth sports coaching. I am writing this letter to warn your readers about an alarming trend that I have noticed over the last decade. Namely, parents will attend their kids’ sporting events, but then spend most of the time on their smartphones.

This is very different from seeing people glued to their phone screens in an airport or doctor’s waiting room or other places in which they would not normally socialize. I am talking about the people who are parents or guardians at their kids’ practices or games.

Their actions tell their kids that they and their activities are not important enough to hold their attention. It’s a bad message. The kids do something great and look to the sidelines for parental approval and get nothing. I’ve even had

Hiatus

Prefix with friendly

parents approach me after a game to ask me to describe their child’s goal because they missed it.

There is going to be more and more tech. It’s not about the phone, as such. It is about people knowing their role as parents and having the restraint to focus their attention appropriately. Do people own phones or are they owned by them?

– Former Youth Coach

Dear Former Youth Coach:

Your letter brings up an important distinction. Staring at a screen is never that healthy, and there is a time when it is especially harmful – when parents are supposed to be watching and supporting their children.

While your physical presence is nice, your attention to the game, and your child, is what matters. If you are just staring at a screen, your kid doesn’t get that reassurance and love they need to do their best. They might wonder why you’re even there or if they are worth your attention.

Childrenwatchandmimiceverything. If you want to keep your child off of smartphones, put the phone down and be in the moment. Present but absent parents can cause great damage to their children.

Dear Annie:

My 16-year-old daughter is relentless

Drew Schmenner, of Pacifica, Calif., is a technical writer and editor for an education nonprofit. He was formerly an investigative reporter for The Desert Sun newspaper in Palm Springs. This is Drew’s fifth crossword for The Times and first Sunday. He and his wife have two daughters, ages 6 and 3, who will be angels this weekend at their church’s Christmas Eve pageant in San Francisco. — W. S.

in begging me to have a sleepover with her boyfriend. She insists they are not sexually active and that she simply wants to hang out with him, watch movies and sleep next to him. For some reason, nothing I say to explain why my answer is no seems to make any sense to her.

Annie, can you offer any suggestions to shut this down? I hate to say “Because I said so,” but I’m at a loss.

– Exhausted Parent

Dear Exhausted:

Tell your daughter she is more than welcome to invite her boyfriend over to hang out and watch movies, but that’s all. Having a sleepover with a boy at her age, even one sans sex, is not appropriate, and so long as she is living under your roof, she must abide by your rules.

At the end of the day, the exact reason – and there are many – doesn’t really matter. If you’re uncomfortable with it, the answer is no. She may not agree with you or be happy about it, but she

has to respect that boundary. And remember, she will thank you later.

Dear Annie:

My sister has been abused mentally and financially for many years, and it is getting worse with her husband now retired. Her self-esteem is so low, and I’m scared of losing this loving and caring person. But she wants her 18 years of marriage to work.

I want her to get a divorce. And I’ve been supporting her mentally and financially for years.

– Divorce the Bum

Dear Divorce the Bum:

Watching someone you love be torn down by another person is painful. Perhaps the most painful part is you cannot force her to leave. You can, however, be there for her without judgment. Tell her how much you love her, be supportive and find ways to build up her self-esteem. Talk with a counseling or support group or contact the National Domestic Abuse Hotline (800-7997233) for more resources on how to offer support and to talk to someone about your concerns.

WEIRD

News You Can Use

In Stenlille, Denmark, a vehicle fire also damaged a nearby house on Dec. 2, InShort reported. Police issued a warning to the community after the fire, cautioning people against using toasters under the front of cars to keep EV batteries warm. While there were no injuries, the car was heavily damaged, and the owner likely will have to pay a fine.

Least Competent Criminal

A62-year-old woman from Haslett, Michigan, picked a poor time to dash through the selfcheckout at Walmart with $700 worth of merchandise in her cart, WJRT-TV reported. On Dec. 2, as the store participated in a Shop With a Cop event in Genoa Township, a clerk notified one of about 75 police officers on hand about the shoplifter. “I do have to say it surprised me,” said MichiganStatePoliceLt.ReneGonzalez.“When you see 75 cops in the store, I mean, I don’t know if maybe they thought we were too busy.” The alleged thief was detained in the parking lot and taken to jail.

Nah, I’m Done

Joshua James Pinquet, 21, of Orlando, Florida, made an apparent sudden decision on Nov. 28 to quit his job, Iredell Free News reported. As he was driving a van with four prison inmates locked in the cargo area, Pinquet contacted his boss at the inmate transport company and said he was done. He was supposed to deliver the inmates to Hickory, North Carolina, but instead he kept going; when Iredell County sheriff’s officers caught up with him, he was arrested and charged with second-degree kidnapping and larceny.

Saw That Coming

In Venice, Italy, on Dec. 3, tourists once again behaved badly – and this time they ended up all

wet. The Guardian reported that travelers from China were riding in a gondola through the city’s canals, shifting around and standing to take selfies, when the gondola capsized, dumping them in the cold water. The gondolier had repeatedly asked them to stay seated, but as he maneuvered under a bridge, the vessel became unbalanced. He, too, ended up in the water, where he assisted his passengers to safety.

Creme de la Weird

The Kyiv Post reported on Dec. 13 that Russia’s security service, the FSB, has released its 2024 propaganda fundraising calendar, and it’s a doozy! The front cover features “art” of an improbably ripped Vladimir Putin giving his best sultry stare while leaning on a big, black compensatorvehicle.Meanwhile,theapocalyptic November image depicts an FSB special forces soldier standing before the U.S. Capitol while drones and helicopters attack it. Is this a popular holiday gift in Russia? Who knows. The bigger question: Why does the FSB need to fundraise?

Weird Science

Gatorland in Orlando, Florida, can boast a fascinating new resident: a leucistic white alligator, born on Dec. 7, CNN reported. The female gator is believed to be one of only eight in the world and the only one born in human care. She was hatched along with a normalcolored brother of the same size (about 19 inches long). “Leucistic alligators are the rarest genetic variation in the American alligator,” the park said. They have bright blue eyes, as opposed to albino gators, which have pink eyes. The public is invited to vote on a name on the park’s social media sites.

Scientists at Northwestern University in Chicago have created teeny-tiny VR headsets for laboratory mice, Sky News reported on Dec. 8, so that they can experience the freedom they will never have. The Miniature Rodent Stereo Illumination VR has two lenses and two screens to give the little dudes a realistic 3D picture of ... aerial threats, like an owl coming in for a meal. The goggles help the mice “engage with the environment in a more natural way,” said lead

Find the 7 words to match the 7 clues. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in each solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all the letter combinations will be necessary to complete the puzzle.

CHUCK SHEPHERD’S

scientist Daniel Dombeck.

Crime Report

In Louisville, Kentucky, a bronze statue of PresidentAbraham Lincoln has been seated on a rock, overlooking the Ohio River, since 2009, the Louisville Courier Journal reported. But Lincoln’s top hat, which rested at his side on the rock, disappeared sometime at the beginning of December. The sculptor, Ed Hamilton, suspects the hat was stolen: “It was anchored down into that monolith rock,” he said. “I don’t know what they could have used, maybe some more manpower or some crowbars. Bring the hat back, because you can’t wear it,” he warned potential thieves.Policeandparkofficialsareinvestigating.

Bright Idea

An unnamed 22-year-old man from Taiwan was detained on Dec. 5 at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok after he was found to be transporting twoAsian small-clawed otters and a prairie dog, Metro News reported.

The man had the animals stuffed into three separate socks and taped into his boxer shorts; security officers became suspicious about the large bulge below the man’s waistband. They believe he purchased them at a market in the city. The animals were taken to the Wildlife Conservation Office; the smuggler was arrested. “We will catch anyone who tries to take animals on planes,” a Thai customs department spokesperson said.

Suspicions Confirmed

Cops in Genoa, Italy, were stumped by a drug-trafficking case in their city, BNN reported on Dec. 1 – that is, until they noticed a large number of bald and beardless men visiting a local barbershop. Investigators initiated surveillance and searched the shop, where they found 100 grams of cocaine, precision scales and packaging materials. They also found hashish at the barber’s home and evidence of ongoing communication with inmates in a Genoa prison. The 55-year-old barber is awaiting sentencing at the Marassi prison.

is

Galileo was brought in with his siblings. He is an attention seeker and will meow at you when you walk into the room. Galileo loves to use his voice and will purr and purr! Adoption fee is $70. For more information about adopting Galileo, visit 1184 Pine St. in Beaumont or call (409) 838-3304.

Birdie, a cattle dog mix, was abandoned at an apartment complex after her family moved. It took her a few days to adjust, but she’s finally started to open up! She is good natured around both people and other dogs.

Adoption fee is $70.

For more information about adopting Birdie, visit 1184 Pine St. in Beaumont or call (409) 838-3304.

ZackHill

By John Deering and John Newcombe

He

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of light, with whom there is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James 1:17)

“Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and forever.”

(Hebrews 13:8)

Steven, my oldest grandson was about 9 years old and I had just returned home from a class reunion that I planned and conducted every two or three years for my high school group back home in Georgia.

To me, my friends looked much as they had in our youth and I was thrilled to see them (and the photographs of their grandchildren).Adear friend in my class was married to a man who own a film studio and he graciously assumed the job of taping each of the main portions of our reunion and providing a CD for each of us to take home to see over

and over. When I arrived back at the beach, I gathered all of my children and grandchildren around the big TV and we sat down to watch MaMa’s reunion. Different ones commented and some recognized close friends of mine. When the video ended, Steven, who has always been very intelligent, quietly eased up to my side and said, “But MaMa, why were you up there with all of those old people? Are they your friends?”

One man from Philadelphia, who married one of my very best friends, loved our reunions as much as we did after many years of attending. He became a regular with us and we did not think of him as a “spouse,” but as a classmate. Joe came up to me as we wrapping up one fun filled weekend at Lake Lanier, and said very seriously to me, “Do you know what true spousal abuse is, Brenda?” I listened carefully because Joe had given me some very good ideas for in depth articles in the past. I said, “Well, I have written about it and interviewed dozens of folks, but I would be interested in hearing what you have learned.” He put his Yankee arm around me and looked right into my

Crossword Solution

Puzzle on page 20B

eyes, (yep, both of them since he knew about my wandering eye), and said, “It is coming to these reunions over and over and having to hear those same stories every year.” The entire hallway erupted into belly laughs.

Folks, time changes us, and those we love, and there is nothing we can do about it except live each day and enjoy whatever it brings to the fullest. I read a quote the other day that said, “No more expensive anti-aging creams for me or makeup I seldom use. I’ve earned every single one of these wrinkles and scars and I am proud of them.”Another funny one said, “I’ve traveled many roads in my lifetime, and most of them were not paved.”

The verse in Hebrews that I have chosen to include is one of the most special verses in Scripture to me. While everything we know and love changes, including us, Jesus does not. Hebrews 13:8 assures us that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.You can bet your best Texas boots on that.

changes not Brenda Cannon Henley can be reached at (409) 781-8788 or at brendacannonhenley@ yahoo.com.

Brenda Cannon Henley columnist