Oct. 3-9, 2024

We stand with Israel

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.

2 Chronicles 7:14-15 (New International Version)

This page is generously sponsored by Crystal Beach Community Church

City of Beaumont’s ‘uncollectible’ process: alleged debtors report never getting bills

By Barbara Davis Staff Writer

The Examiner’s coverage of the Sept. 17 Beaumont City Council meeting, which followed adopting a budget that would increase utility bills, highlighted the council’s decision to write off more than $60,000 in commercial and personal unpaid water bills, brought the city’s collection process under examination.

The discussion of alternative collection strategies sparked a lively debate within the council. Councilmember Taylor Neild, familiar with some of the businesses involved, suggested turning the accounts over to the city’s legal team for potential collection.

Councilmember Randy Feldschau voiced the concern of many Beaumont residents, questioning why well-known commercial entities were allowed to default on their bills.

Of the more than $91,000 in unpaid water bills classified by the city’s finance department – also the department in charge of water customer service –as “uncollectible” were several business accounts, whose owners went on record with The Examiner stating they had no knowledge of the alleged outstanding balances.

accounts for Lucite International for $1,703.12, attributed to a November 2022 disconnection, and ALH Properties, the former owner of the Best Western Jefferson Inn, for two accounts totaling $9,410.21. Also excluded was an account for Knife River in the amount of $1,311.90 for disconnection at 2155 Seventh St. commercial location on Jan. 6, 2023. Although the “uncollectible” report included the business phone number, Senior Accounting Clerk Celia Rivera

‘Our accountant went to the water office the next day, asking to see the bill, and they could not find it.’

According to Rivera, whose job at the time of the alleged debt accumulation was paying the company’s nine water accounts before the company sold to Modern Concrete, Knife River’s policy upon the sale was to pay any and all utility bills – even following the transfer of the company – and they would subsequently back bill Modern Concrete for the expense.

CEO Allison Landrum emailed the city manager, assistant city manager and all council members to notify them that the owner of Northridge Manor was the actual debtor of the bills attributed to BHA.

- Beaumont Housing Authority Vice President of Corporate Communications Jennifer Gregory

Excluded from being written off, as recommended by the city manager, were

with Knife River said she never once received a phone call or correspondence from the city of Beaumont regarding an outstanding debt for unpaid water bills.

“We gave them some grace to get things switched over and kept paying all the bills as they came in,” said Rivera, who added that, to this day, Knife River employs a remote worker to check the company’s Beaumont Post Office box and forward the mail as soon as it arrives.

“If I had known about this, I would have said, ‘Send us the bill,’ and it would have been paid out that week,” said Rivera.

The final excluded account from the write-off belonged to Beaumont Housing Authority, with two accounts totaling $9,951.85 stemming from a disconnection dated March 14, 2023. With more than 18 months to collect, Beaumont Housing Authority Vice President of Corporate Communications Jennifer Gregory reported, the agency never received a single phone call or letter to collect the outstanding debt. Upon learning of the debt through the Sept. 17 city council meeting, Beau-

“I’m not sure why these two bills are listed under BHA’s name — we are not receiving those bills; they are likely going to the owner,” Landrum shared with the city administrators and elected officials. “Therefore, we were completely unaware that the property had a delinquency, or we definitely would’ve cleared the confusion up when it occurred.”

According to Gregory, the sole response BHA received from the mass email was from Councilman Mike Getz: “He said he wasn’t surprised that it was the city’s issue and not us.”

“Our accountant went to the water office the next day, asking to see the bill, and they could not find it,” Gregory said, adding that staff was again going to follow up to check the status of alleged bad debt attributed to the housing authority.

Gregory said that, if the burden falls on BHA because the city says they didn’t turn off the water, the housing authority will pay it.

“We always want to pay our debts and we’re always on time with our payments,” Gregory said, still unsure if BHA even owes said debt. “We had no

mont Housing Authority (BHA)

‘If I had known about this, I would have said, ‘Send us the bill,’ and it would have been paid out that week.’

- Knife River Senior Accounting Clerk Celia Rivera

idea.

“If they would’ve called, we would have rectified this immediately … I hope that calling people is part of their collection process.”

“I have received numerous communications from constituents over the recent

over $60,000 in delinquent water bills,” Getz wrote in an email to Beaumont City Manager Kenneth Williams on Sept. 30. “I understand that ‘writing off’ is not the same as forgiving a delinquent bill, but the general public does not, and I think that needs to be made clear in a

Getz further inquired as to the city’s collection process for the unpaid water bills, asking “What efforts do they make to collect? How does the process work? Do they simply send out a single letter and if no response, do they refer it back to the city to ‘write off,’” asked Getz. “When they come across a delinquent account and the account holder is no longer at that location, do they attempt to skip trace the delinquent account holder?”

Williams responded to Getz that he had previously informed the council that this would be brought back as an agenda item and that his questions would be addressed when the info is compiled and/or addressed during the agenda item. Williams stated he would target the second

Texas PBSto air 370-mile coastal adventure featuring SETX

For viewers in Beaumont and the surrounding Upper Texas Coast, “Chasing the Tide” offers a deeply local perspective on the state’s coastal treasures and challenges, according to producers. Highlighting the resilience and spirit of the area, the series features stories of those who weathered Hurricane Harvey in Port Arthur, efforts to conserve the Salt Bayou Watershed, and the vibrant songbirds of High Island. The documentary also delves into the destruction brought by Hurricane Ike on the Bolivar Peninsula, the creation of the Ike Dike and the struggle against sea level rise on Galveston Island. Unique stories, like the rediscovery of the Ghost Wolves of Galveston Island and the cultural revival of the Karankawa Kadla, give insight into the area's ecological and historical significance. The documentary series, part of Texas PBS’ “Made in Texas” series, also touches on the coastal erosion challenges faced by Surfside Beach.

In October 2023, Chrissy Kleberg, Jay Kleberg and their crew embarked on an ambitious 370-mile journey, walking the Texas coastline from the Louisiana border to the Rio Grande. Over the span of just 21 days, they captured the coast’s raw beauty and its rapidly evolving environment, resulting in the creation of “Chasing the Tide.”

Beginning Oct. 5, the first episode will premiere on all 10 Texas PBS stations, including Beaumont’s local station.

Following the premiere, the full six-part series will be available on the PBS app Oct. 7, ensuring the local audience can easily access the show on various streaming platforms.

meeting in October for this item. While Williams’answer has yet to be revealed, the answer The Examiner uncovered from multiple businesses accused of not paying their debts is, “No, not even a phone call.”

Although cities in Texas are legally permitted to place liens on properties with certain limitations, the city of Beaumont does not have an ordinance adopted to allow for such, Communication Director Tracy Kennick advised.

Among the “uncollectible accounts” the city agreed to write off were numerous personal accounts, several exceeding $2,000 and some with bills as high as $2751.83, although the city of Beaumont states that its policy is to disconnect service shortly after bills become delinquent.

The next meeting of the Beaumont City Council is slated for Oct. 15, and citizens who pay their utility bills can expect to see a 4% increase in water, an 8% increase in sewer, and an additional $1.75 charge for solid waste on their October bills released later that same week.

According to Chrissy Kleberg, “Texas’ coastal region embodies what the state is and aspires to be – breathtaking and gritty, storied and inspiring, expansive and eclectic – and it’s rapidly changing.”

For residents of Southeast Texas, this documentary is touted to shine a spotlight on efforts by local nonprofits, government agencies and individuals to safeguard the coast’s future in the face of rising seas and increasing storms. Greg Stunz of the Harte Research Insti-

tute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi underscores the importance of these conservation efforts as he maintains that “Chasing the Tide” reveals the critical work being done to balance environmental sustainability with the economic needs of coastal communities.

The series will also feature educational resources for students, created in partnership with PBS LearningMedia. These resources reportedly align with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills and Next Generation Science Standards,

aimed at grades 3-8, offering both English and Spanish materials for classroom use. Teachers and parents can explore topics related to the Coastal Plains region, enriching science and social studies learning.

A companion book, detailing the journey and the making of the series, is set to be published in November. For more information about the series, viewers can visit chasingthetideseries.com.

– Barbara Davis, Staff Writer

Trial begins for mother of special needs son starved to death

By Barbara Davis Staff Writer

Jury selection began before 252nd District Court Judge Raquel West on Sept. 30 for the trial of Tina Louise Louis. Charged with two counts of injury to a child, Louis is the mother of 3-year-old King Dewey, a special needs child found deceased and extremely emaciated in his sister’s home May 31, 2022, weighing only 19 pounds at the time of his death.

The probable cause affidavit for Louis’ arrest indicates that she had left Dewey in the care of her daughter, Kirsten Louis, and the daughter’s live-in boyfriend, Jaylin Jevon Lewis, at the couple’s Port Arthur apartment.

According to Kirsten’s testimony in Jaylin’s trial just last month, mother Tina had been informed of King’s deteriorating medical condition and was repeatedly asked to pick him up, as well as collect two other children left with Kirsten and Jaylin months prior.

Louis was represented by defense attorney Ryan Matuska; assistant district attorney Tommy Coleman prose-

cuted the case on behalf of the state.

According to the probable cause affidavit for Louis’ arrest, and as stated by Coleman to potential jurors, Louis is accused of injury to a child, specifically by failing to provide adequate food and adequate medical care for the child.

Within opening arguments Oct. 1, Coleman advised the jury that, as King’s mother, Tina Louis had a duty to provide and protect the toddler. Instead, Coleman insisted, evidence would show that Louis abandoned her son a month before his death, leaving her adult daughter overwhelmed with her mother’s three young children. Coleman also told the jury that evidence would show Kirsten made it clear to Tina that King was struggling and would not eat to the mother’s response to give him milk and vitamins. Tina, when interviewed by law enforcement, indicated that she had last spoken with her children on a video call the night before; however, Coleman said evidence would prove that to be a lie.

“His life was tragic in a number of ways,” Coleman told the jury of King’s short time on this earth. According to

the prosecutor, Tina’s failure to provide mental and physical care, failure to provide food, and failure to be a decent parent causally contributed to her son’s death. “There’s enough guilt to go around here.”

Matuska, Tina’s defense attorney, impressed upon the jury that King died at the hands of his sister and her boyfriend, to no fault of the defendant.

“King died because Kirsten Louis and Jaylin Lewis locked him in the closet and starved him to death,” said Matuska. “You’re not going to see an intent by Tina … you’re not going to see

Former councilman sentenced for escape

Cross Coburn, a former Groves City Councilmember, was sentenced to 5 years’probation for a 2024 escape from arrest or confinement charge that occurred May 29, 2024.

Coburn, who was originally arrested for the accompanying charge of assaulting a peace officer, was allowed to plead guilty to the single escape felony allegation. The assault of a peace officer charge was dropped at Coburn’s sentencing hearing held Oct. 2 in Jefferson County Criminal District Court under the direction of Judge John Stevens.

Defense attorney Jill Swearingen said she’s known the defendant since he was 14 years old. Coburn, she said, is on a positive path forward, but comes from a hard background.

“He’s had a difficult life,” she said, adding that Coburn’s past has been a burden to navigating a productive future –but the defendant is working on altering

a knowing omission or recklessness.”

Testimony in the trial against Tina Louis began the afternoon of Oct. 1 and will be detailed in next week’s edition of The Examiner.

Kirsten Louis accepted a plea deal and entered a plea of guilty in both charges of injury to a child before Judge West on Aug. 27, agreeing to a 30-year sentence for each charge, to run concurrently.

Jaylin Lewis was sentenced to 60 years in prison after being found guilty on two counts of injury to a child for his role in King’s death.

Tina was originally arrested on May 31, 2022, and released on a $200,000 bond on February 23, 2024.

If found guilty, Tina Louis faces a minimum of 5 years to 99 years or life in prison with the possibility of parole. During pretrial hearings, Louis elected to allow the jury to assess her punishment if she is found guilty.

his ways.

“85%aresuccessstoriesinthisroom,” Stevens said of probationers completing their community supervision. If all goes well, the judge added, Coburn could be off probation in one-third the time sentenced. “You know you can do better. I expect you will do better.”

Weed odor leads to prison lockup

Dosha Shamar Gilder, 26, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 55 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael Truncale on Sept. 26.

According to information presented in court, on May 23, 2023, Gilder was stopped by law enforcement for speeding on West Lucas Drive in Beaumont.

The officers reportedly noticed a strong marijuana odor coming from the vehicle and marijuana was observed in plain sight. Gilder informed officers he had marijuana and a firearm in the vehicle. Gilder also told officers he was a convicted felon, having been convicted of burglary of a habitation in Jefferson County in 2017.

Officers located a loaded pistol with an extended magazine in the vehicle. As a convicted felon, Gilder is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

Louis

Coburn

King Dewey

Voter registration deadline approaches

Individuals wishing to vote in the Nov. 5 election must register or make necessary corrections to their name and/ or address on or before Monday, Oct. 7. Jefferson County Interim Voter Registrar Terry Wuenschel indicated that Jefferson County residents may register in person at the Jefferson County Courthouse at 1149 Pearl St. in Beaumont, the Mid-County Tax Office at 4605 Jerry Ware Dr. in Nederland, or at the Jefferson County Sub-Courthouse, located at 525 Lakeshore Dr. in Port Arthur. Several deputy voter registrars are also working throughout the community to register individuals.

Persons with a name or address change, or are unsure of their status, can call (409) 835-VOTE (8683) or (409) 985-VOTE (8683) for assistance.

‘One Pot Throwdown’ returns Oct. 10

United Way of Beaumont and North Jefferson County will host its 8th annual United Way One Pot Throwdown fundraiser at the Civic Center in downtown Beaumont on Thursday, Oct. 10, from 5:30 - 8 p.m.

The cook-off competition will showcase some of Southeast Texas area’s most prominent and well-known restau-

rants and caterers, as well as other local businesses and community organizations. Guests will have an opportunity to vote on their favorite dishes throughout the evening. All-you-can-eat “one pot” tastings, adult beverages, live entertainment by Southeast Texas musical duo Caleb &April, a fun-filled Kidz Korner, raffles and more will make for an actionpacked night in downtown Beaumont –all for one entry price.

Admission is open to all ages, and purchasing tickets in advance is recommended. Tickets are $35 per person presale, and $40 per person at the door. Pre-sale tickets will be sold until noon Oct. 11, online at www.uwbmt.org, by calling (409) 835-4575, or stopping by the United Way office at 700 North St. in downtown Beaumont.

All proceeds will benefit 36 programs of United Way of Beaumont and North Jefferson County’s 20 local non-profit partner agencies.

Fall Job Fair set for Oct. 9

The Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce announced a Fall Job Fair alongside the Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas set for Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the RobertA. “Bob” Bowers Civic Center, 3401 Cultural Center Dr., in Port Arthur. The event presents an opportunity for local businesses to connect with potential employees and showcase their company to local job seekers.

Anyone wishing to participate, but cannot be there physically, can send hiring material, such as a link to fill out an application or a QR code. To confirm participation or for questions, call (409) 963-1107.

Beaumont to host CDBG orientation

The city of Beaumont’s Consolidated Plan, comprised of two entitlements that includes the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and the HOME Affordable Housing (HOME) program, will be the focus of a two-day session offered at City Hall on Oct. 7 and 8, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

According to the city communication announcing the event, the CDBG program provides annual grants on a formula basis to state and local governments.

“The CDBG program establishes viable communities through a wide array of activities that help to ensure the commitment to decent affordable housing, create suitable living environments and create jobs through the expansion and retention of businesses,” city communique stated. All wishing to be 2024 grant awardees are required to attend the mandatory information session.

BISD moves to app-based transport alert system

According to a Sept. 24 alert to parents and guardians of Beaumont ISD students, the district is now offering access to a “SMARTtag”Transportation Parent App.

This new mobile parent app is replacing the web accessed SMART tag Parent Portal. SMART Alerts and other transportation communication previously received as text will now be sent as push notifications to the app.

The Transportation Parent App is available for Android and iOS at www. qbit.codes/q/smart-tag-parent-app.

Another BISD app change

Beaumont ISD announced transitioning to a “new and improved application” employment application platform, www. bmtisd.com/careers, scheduled to go live Oct. 1.

Current applicants that have not been hired by Oct. 1, BISD added, will need to resubmit a new application using the new platform at www.bmtisd.com/ careers.

Southeast Texas gears up for a spook-tacular season

By Barbara Davis Staff Writer

Fall in Southeast Texas is shaping up to be a whirlwind of fun, spooky and festive events, perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit! Kicking things off is the Orangetober Festival in Orange from Oct. 4-6 at Riverside Pavilion (708 Simmons Dr.). This festival will feature over 10,000 pumpkins and loads of activities, including a pumpkin pie eating contest, a gumbo cookoff and a cornhole tournament. Don't miss live music from bands like PaperChase and Drew Parker, with country star Wade Bowen headlining at 9 p.m. on Oct. 5. For runners, there’s the Big Pumpkin Run 5K through downtown Orange, and

the weekend wraps up with a massive Pumpkin Scramble on Oct. 6, where all the pumpkins from Pumpkin Village will be given away. Admission and parking are free, making this a can'tmiss event for the entire family.

Oct. 5, Beaumont will transform Rogers Park into a slice of Germany with its 9th annual Oktoberfest, running 3 – 8 p.m.

Alongside a large beer garden, Oktoberfest will feature live performances by The Suffers, Ole Lonesome and some good ol' polka music. If you’ve got children in tow, Kidtoberfest offers free face painting, a petting zoo and lots of family-friendly activities.

Looking for a Halloween prelude? Sour Lake’s Trunk or Treat on Oct. 12 at

Lion’s Park (577 W Cora Lee St.) will be a spooky good time for the whole family. From 6 p.m., enjoy music, food vendors, a DJ and, of course, plenty of candy for the kiddos as they make their way through a line of decorated trunks. All activities are free, allowing families to get into the spooky spirit early and at no cost.

For history and Halloween lovers, the Pumpkin Walk and Fall Festival at John Jay French Museum (3025 French Rd.) will take place Oct. 19, from 6 to 9 p.m. Wander through a haunted tour of the 1845 French home, hop on a haunted hayride and get creative with a pumpkin carving contest. Prizes include tickets to the Jefferson Theater, bowling vouchers and more. Admission is $5 for nonmembers, while members and kids under 3 get in free.

The Spindletop Boomtown Museum is also getting in on the fun with Spookfest on Oct. 18 from 5:30 – 9 p.m. Located at 5550 Jimmy Simmons Blvd in Beaumont, this event will feature trick-or-treating along Boomtown’s historic streets, spooky decorations and an outdoor showing of Hotel Transylvania.

Ready to celebrate with your furry friends? The Humane Society of Southeast Texas is hosting

its annual Howl-O-Ween Celebration on Oct. 26 at 2050 Spindletop Ave. in Beaumont from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Expect a shelter dog fashion show, pet parade and $31 adoptions! Dress up your pets and join the fun, with contests for the spookiest, cutest and most creative costumes.

If you prefer a more outdoor experience, Martin Dies Jr. State Park in Jasper is hosting a Trick or Treat Loop on Oct. 26 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The park’s 200’s Loop will be decorated with spooky displays, big trucks and first responder booths, all offering treats for the kiddos. The park entrance fee is waived for this event, allowing families the opportunity to enjoy all the Halloween fun for free.

The fun doesn’t stop there –Oct. 26 is packed with events such as: The Amelia Baptist Church in Beaumont will host its Harvest Market & Festival from 4 p.m., offering food trucks, games, market vendors, and an outdoor movie. The event is free, though be sure

Gift of Life Monster Dash 5K Ribbon Run

Oct. 26, 8 a.m. Downtown Beaumont

Marsh Monster Mash at Cattail Marsh

Oct. 22, 12-4 p.m. Tyrrell Park, Beaumont

Museum Madness Pumpkin

Walk and Fall Festival at John Jay French Museum

Oct. 19, 6-9 p.m.

3025 French Rd, Beaumont

Southeast Texas Fall Festival at Creekwood Farms

Oct. 25-27 999 Creekwood St., Vidor

Cowboy Church of Orange County Fall Festival and Chili Cook-off

Oct. 19 673 FM 1078, Orange

Ghosts, Goblins, and Gardens at Beaumont Botanical Gardens

Oct. 26, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tyrrell Park, Beaumont

Orangetober Festival at the Riverside Pavilion

Oct. 4-6 708 Simmons Dr., Orange

Spooktacular Howl-OWeen Celebration with the Humane Society Oct. 13, 3-5 p.m.

2050 Spindletop Ave., Beaumont

Trick or Treat in the Park at Martin Dies Jr State Park

Oct. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 634 Park Road 48 S., Jasper

Thrill the World Beaumont at Taluka Trades

Oct. 26, 5 p.m. 489 Pearl, Beaumont

Harvest Market and Festival at Amelia Baptist Church Oct. 26, 4 p.m. 8055 Brighton St., Beaumont

Scarecrow Festival at Shangri La Oct. 8-26, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 2111 West Park Ave., Orange

Trunk or Treat at LIT

Oct. 29, 4-7 p.m. 855 E Lavaca St., Beaumont

Outdoor Movie Night at Lumberton City Park featuring Hocus Pocus Oct. 26, 6:30 p.m. FM 421, Lumberton

Trunk or Treat at Lions Park

Oct. 12, 6-9 p.m. 577 W Cora Lee St., Sour Lake

Beaumont PD Trunk or Treat

Oct. 29, 2-5 p.m.

255 College St., Beaumont

Cruella’s Halloween Party with Fire Museum of Texas

Oct. 31, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 400 Walnut St., Beaumont

Sterling Pruitt Haunted House

Oct. 31, 6 – 9 p.m.

2930Gulf Ave., Beaumont

to bring cash for those tasty food truck treats and any vendor purchases.

For a good cause, join the Julie Richardson Proctor Gift of Life 5K

Thrill the World Beaumont will take over 489 Pearl St in downtown Beaumont on Oct. 26 at 5 pm. This worldwide dance event hosted by Taluka Trades brings together people from all corners of the globe to perform Michael Jackson’s Thriller simultaneously. Tickets are $25 and go towards event costs, so start practicing your zombie moves or get in some practice every Thursday to learn the dance. More details are available at Taluka Trades or by calling or

Helping after Helene

The American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region issued an urgent appeal for volunteers willing to travel this fall to support emergency shelters for major national disaster relief efforts. Increasing frequency of extreme disasters like Hurricane Helene are driving high demand, Red Cross staff shared.

Interested volunteers are urged to sign up at redcross.org/volunteer. All candidates must complete necessary training and commit to a two-week deployment. Applicants without disaster experience, but have supervision, management or organization skills, as well as a strong desire to help others and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, are encouraged to apply.

“When disasters upend lives, Red Cross volunteers are on the frontlines providing refuge and comfort to people in their darkest hours,” Jake Peters,

Regional Disaster Officer of Texas Gulf Coast Region, said. “They truly are the heart and soul of the Red Cross – comprising 90% of our workforce – to help ensure families never face a crisis alone.”

In emergency shelters, Red Cross disaster volunteers provide people with a safe place to stay, necessities like food and water and critical services like mental health support and basic health services such as replacing lost medications or medical equipment.As of Sept. 30, more than 900 Red Cross disasters responders were on the ground across 10 states devastated by Hurricane Helene. The prior night, more than 2,600 people stayed in 69 emergency shelters supported by the Red Cross and other community organizations. Overnight totals jumped by roughly 600 people as storm-ravaged communities like those in North Carolina became more accessible.

“Hurricane season is far from over –and the threat of more storms looms now in the Gulf andAtlantic oceans,” the call for assistance assured. “What’s more, the Southwest and California are forecast to have above-normal wildfire risk this fall. As the climate crisis worsens, disasters are becoming more intense and frequent – leading the Red Cross to respond on a nearly continuous basis.”

Mom’s death remembered during pedestrian safety effort

October was the deadliest month for pedestrians in our state last year, with 80 pedestrians dying in Texas traffic crashes, according to information from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT),whichreporteda22%increase in pedestrian traffic fatalities over the last five years.

As National Pedestrian Safety Month is celebrated, TxDOT is launching its “Be Safe. Drive Smart” pedestrian safety campaign to encourage drivers and pedestrians to look out for each other, particularly as fall and winter bring fewer daylight hours and reduced visibility.

At the center of TxDOT’s new campaign is Lisa Torry Smith, who was killed in a pedestrian crash in a crosswalk in October 2017, while she was walking her 6-year-old son to kindergarten in Missouri City. A motorist drove through a crosswalk, hitting Smith and leaving her son with a broken leg and fractured pelvis – and without a mother.

At the time of the crash that took Smith’s life, hitting a pedestrian, bicyclist or other vulnerable road user in a crosswalk held virtually no consequences for Texas drivers, TxDOT reported. Afterwards, the Lisa Torry Smith Act was passed into effect as of Sept. 1, 2021, and requires drivers stop and yield the right of way to people in crosswalks. Texas motorists failing to stop and yield and cause serious injury or death to someone in a crosswalk can face criminal penalties ranging from a fine, a mis-

demeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the injury.

To prevent a deadly crash, TxDOT encourages drivers to stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks, yield the right of way to pedestrians when turning, putting the phone away and paying attention, following speed limits, and being cautious when passing stopped buses or other vehicles that can block a view of pedestrians.

Local groups nix flag burning

Jefferson County Veteran Service Office Supervisor Pamela Miller advised that, “Local veterans groups are no longer honorably burning old flags.”

Instead of bringing in flags to be retired, Miller stated, those in need of discarding a worn or tattered flag is instructed to “honorably bury” the national symbol.

“We can no longer accept them in our office,” according to Miller. “If you have a flag that needs to be disposed of, please bury it at a location of your choice.”

‘Riverside’ hosts seal reveal

Oct. 4, at 11 a.m., join the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce for an official ribbon cutting ceremony at the Riverside Grille, 290 Crockett St. in downtown Beaumont. At the same time, catch the first glimpse of a planned “seal reveal” for the Better Business Bureau serving Southeast Texas. Guests will enjoy free admission, door prizes, and more. Light refreshments and snacks will be offered.

Jasper County Sheriff’s Office new hire has 37years’ experience

Setting up a team to hit the ground running when he officially assumes office Jan. 1, 2025, Jasper County Sheriff-Elect Chuck Havard has announced another major player –this time, a true Major, named in 37-year law enforcement vet eran Steve Crowell.

Havard stated that he has spent the months leading up to him assuming the sheriff’s role interviewing existing and potential candidates for sev eral positions, “in an effort to put the best, most quali fied and professional per sonnel in place for the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO).” To that end, he assured the community, Havard is confident is appointing Crowell to the position of JCSO major. Crowell began his law enforcement

career in 1986 at the Sour Lake Police Department before moving to the Lumberton Police Department as a patrol officer from 1987-90. In 1990, Crowell graduated from the Texas DPS Academy and went on to serve DPS as a highway patrol trooper until 2004, when he was promoted into the Criminal Investigation Division (CID), where he became an agent with the Special Crimes and Criminal Intelligence Divisions of DPS. Additionally, he was a member of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, U.S. Marshal’s Service Fugitive Task Force and provided executive protection for numerous state and federal dignitaries.

Upon his retirement from DPS, Crowell took a sales/marketing position

in the private sector, which allowed him to spend time in Jasper County as part of his territory and bolster his experience in management and leadership, Havard explained while reiterating his commitment to the people of Jasper County to bring in top Texas professionals in law enforcement: “Steve is exactly this!”

Havard said his primary goal is to keep deputies in the neighborhoods of Jasper County, combatting theft and drugs – and he believes Crowell’s background will aid in the endeavor.

“He will oversee both the Patrol and Criminal Investigation Divisions; however, the buck always stops with me,” Havard said. “Steve is an honorable man of the highest integrity and will be an asset to Jasper County. (He) is one of the most respected lawmen in Southeast Texas and we are proud to have him on our team.”

“I appreciate the confidence sheriff-

elect Havard has shown in me and I look forward to serving the citizens of Jasper County,” Crowell stated. “My No. 1 priority will be to see the sheriffelect’s mission implemented and carried out and to make Jasper County a safe place to live, work, worship and play. I am looking forward to working with the hardworking men and women that are there and providing an atmosphere of teamwork and leadership.”

Lamar State College-PASBDCSymposium concludes; Ignite the Vision Award winners announced

Lamar State College Port Arthur Small Business Development Center (SBDC) hosted a Small Business Symposium to bring together local entrepreneurs, business leaders and industry experts for a day of learning, networking and inspiration. The event featured Elliott Cook of Retail Strategies as the keynote speaker, who delivered a presentation titled “Community Retail: Renew, Reuse, and Revitalize.”

During his session, Cook highlighted the latest retail trends and shared strategies for repurposing old retail spaces to drive both national and local growth. In addition to the keynote, the Symposium concluded with the Ignite the Vision competition, powered by Motiva, where local entrepreneurs had the chance to pitch their business ideas for cash awards.

The winners were announced as:

• First Place: Cruz Events and Décor, LLC, Daniel Cruz, owner, awarded $10,000

• Second Place: Angel’s Devine Touch, LLC, Angel Maze, owner, awarded $5,000

• Third Place: Salon Flourish, LLC, Leah Smith, owner, awarded $3,000

“Two of the top needs of small business owners today are access to capital and a willing workforce,” said Dana M. Espinal, director of LSCPA SBDC.

“This competition may not provide full capital needs for our area small business owners, but these funds will provide some capital that this competition

was developed to do.” Sponsors included Motiva Enterprises, Golden Pass LNG, Cheniere, Sempra Infrastructure, Central Mall, His-

panic Business Association of Southeast Texas, Cruz Events & Décor, Port of Port Arthur, Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas, Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation and Lamar State College Port Arthur.

In addition, during the Keynote Luncheon, information was provided about Google and their partnership with Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) across the United States to provide the tools and resources for a train the trainer program.

“This program is aimed to get information out quickly and accurately to our small business owners about AI through your local SBDC,” Espinal explained, adding that future workshops and programs aimed at helping small businesses grow and thrive utilizing AI as a tool will be announced soon.

The Lamar State College PortArthur SBDC is a business advising and training center of the University of Houston Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network serving 32 counties in Southeast Texas. The LSCPA SBDC coverage area includes Port Arthur, Nederland, Groves, Port Neches, Bridge City, Orange and Vidor municipalities. All area small businesses are welcome to contact Espinal for more information.

Ignite the Vision award winners Leah Smith, owner of Salon Flourish, LLC; Angel Maze, owner of Angel’s Devine Touch, LLC; and Daniel Cruz, owner of Cruz Events and Décor, LLC.

Crowell

Woman found dead;three men arrested for murder

Final moments of victim's life recorded on Ring doorbell camera

By Dannie Oliveaux Staff Writer

During the last Sunday morning service of September, the fellowship of New Day Deliverance Holiness Church in Beaumont gathered to honor the life of one of their own, a long-time congregant tragically murdered in front of her own home this past week.

Sept. 27, Ebonie Gilbert, 39, was found dead in her home by her mother about 3 p.m. Evidence from the victim’s Ring doorbell camera led to the arrest of three men; all in custody for Gilbert’s murder as of press time.

During the brief, 10-minute memorial service, Bishop Eldridge Charlot Sr. spoke of Gilbert’s commitment to the church, her family and her profession. According to the Bishop, Gilbert was born and raised in Orange, and was a

plant operator in Orange at the time of her death.

“Knowing the sweet, loving person she was, she didn’t deserve what happened to her,” Charlot reminisced along with the assembled congregation. Gilbert’s death, he added, was “a senseless crime.”

“If you would have needed something, knowing Ebonie, and who she was, she would have given it to ya,” Charlot reflected, impacted by the violent end to the life of a woman who only knew work and church. “You didn’t have to kill her.”

Three men, barely out of their teenage

years, were arrested in the days following the crime: D’Corey Bernhard Shillow and Javonte Turner, both 21, and Tydrick Jamard Davis, 20, were arrested in connection with Gilbert’s murder, according to the Beaumont Police Department (BPD).

Excerpts of the investigations reveal that Gilbert’s mother discovered the victim’s lifeless body shortly before 3 p.m. In short succession, BPD officers and detectives were called to the 3500 block of Bennett Road, between Helbig and Bigner Roads in north Beaumont, to investigate a deceased person.

At the scene, BPD uncovered video evidence from the homeowner’s Ring doorbell video camera that showed a “brutal, cold-blooded killing,” reported BPD officials. According to investigators, the video showed Gilbert interrupting car burglars in her driveway at approximately 8 p.m. Sept. 26. She can be seen confronting two burglars and being shot by one at close range, the law enforcement agency further revealed of the video.

Fatally wounded, Gilbert can be seen on the video struggling to crawl back into her home and call for help while the assailants ran away. Gilbert never made it to the phone.

Images recorded of the assailants on the Ring doorbell were circulated in an attempt to identify the murder suspects and, immediately, one of the men was recognized. Sept. 27, Shillow was placed under arrest for first-degree murder after his family brought him to BPD headquarters to speak to detectives. His bond was set at $750,000.

According to a probable cause affidavit signed by Magistrate Marc DeRouen, Shillow admitted his involvement in the shooting and provided details about the incident, as well as the identity of codefendant Turner. According to the recitation of Shillow’s statement, he had given the clothes he was wearing during the homicide to Turner to conceal.

Sept. 29, Turner was arrested for mur-

executed an evidentiary search warrant at an apartment located at 4150 block of Maida Road, where Turner was reportedly hiding. Turner was arrested and his bond was set at $800,000.

During the search of Turner’s alleged hideout, detectives recovered police body armor that had been reported stolen during a prior automobile burglary, as well as the clothing Shillow was wearing during the homicide.

RickyTurner, 40, was arrested for hindering apprehension of a fugitive and possession of body armor by a felon. His bond was set at $18,000.

Sept. 30, Davis was arrested by the U.S. Marshal Task Force for a murder warrant also connected to the case. Bond was set at $800,000.

All three murder suspects remained in custody in the Jefferson County Correctional Facility as of press time.

BPD homicide investigators ask anyone with any information about the homicide to call (409) 832-1234. Information can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas at (409) 833-TIPS (8477) or via the P3 tips app.

Gilbert's was the 13th murder this year in Beaumont.

der after BPD Person Crimes detectives

Turner Davis Shillow

Gilbert

Price check: Don’t’ get conned by closeout sales

By Dannie Oliveaux Staff Writer

After more than 100 years of serving the Golden Triangle, Conn’s stores are hosting a “Going Out of Business Sale,” featuring name brand appliances, furniture and other items from 50-70% off – a great deal depending on what the price is being discounted.

As revealed from a price check comparing identical items, the company’s last days sales event is failing to post better prices than those routinely offered at other national-brand stores in Southeast Texas, such as Best Buy, Lowe’s and Home Depot.

The Examiner price searching showed that some people could be paying higher prices for some products that are advertised with mark-offs from 50-70%. According to the company’s website, the extra discounts are valid until Oct. 9 – and all sales are final.

Earlier this week, a Samsung AutoRelease Smart 39dBA dishwasher with linear wash in stainless steel sold by Conn’s was listed at 55% off at $1,199.99. The same dishwasher was selling on Samsung.com and Lowes. com for $799, $400 lower than the Conn’s “sale” price.

A black Samsung over-the-range microwave (2.1 cubit feet, 1,000 watts with sensor cook) was $290 at Conn’s, 50% off the listed price of $579. A similar stainless steel model was list at $299, $160 off the original price of $459, on Lowes.com.

A Conn’s GE range was listed at $3,799, minus the 50% off, and HomeDepot.com, BestBuy.com and Lowes.com have the same product listed originally at $3,777. HomeDepot is offering $1,279 off the original price, Lowes.com dropped $1,078 off the price and BestBuy.com’s price is $900 off.

A LG French Door refrigerator (30 cubic feet capacity, stainless steel, fully convertible drawer, measured fill dispenser, craft ice maker and door-indoor) was priced at $4,299.99 minus the 50% off ($2,149.99). LG.com lists the same product at $2,499, $1,500 off the original $3,999 and HomeDepot. com lists at $2,999, $300 off the original price of $3,299.

Also, an out-of-the-box stainless steel slide-in range listed at Conn’s as 50% off of its $2,199.99 price tag, or $1,099.99, can be purchased from HomeDepot.com for $1,298, $801 off the original price of $2,099. Lowes. com has the same product marked $800 less than the original $1,299.

ASamsung 65-inch QLED 4K Smart TV is listed at $1,400 at Conn’s, 50% off of the original $2,999 price. BestBuy.com has the same TV listed at $1,499.99, $100 off the original price of $1,599.99.

An Apple MacBook Air M2 256

computer, at 50% off, would cost $850 at Conn’s. It was initially priced at $1,699.99. A similar computer, originally priced at $999, is $859 on BestBuy.com.

Two employees, who have worked less than 18 months for Conn’s, confirmed that a liquidation company is handling the store’s closing sale. Liquidation is selling off goods and assets to pay off debts, according to ASDonline.com. Liquidation companies buy these items at a discount and then resell them to the public, often dealing in brand-name products from well-known companies.

AMSET to showcase

Harry Ahysen paintings

The Art Museum of Southeast Texas (AMSET) will present “Harry Ahysen: Devices for Study” for its fall 2024 exhibition, on view Oct. 5 – Dec. 8. This willAhysen’s first solo show since his death in 2006.

Ahysen (1928-2006) was born in Port Arthur and lived most of his life in Texas before moving to Ohio. In fact, the 67th Legislature of Texas named Ahysen “State Artist of Texas” in 1980, and is also one of ten official Coast Guard artists. Seven of his works are a part of the Coast Guard Collection.

The theme and title for this exhibition are derived from Ahysen’s published sketchbook/textbook, Composition Devices for Landscape and Seascape Painting (1970).

An opening reception will take place on Friday, Oct. 11, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public and includes a gallery talk with Donna Tennant, independent writer for the Houston Chronicle, Arts and Culture Texas, Visual Art Source (LA) and Glasstire. A free gallery guide handout with an essay by Tennant will be available to the public.

A free Family Arts Day will take place in conjunction with this exhibition on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information, visit amset.org or call (409) 832-3432.

Annual Fire Festival set for Oct. 5

Join the Beaumont Fire DepartmentFire Museum of Texas for the annual Fire Festival 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, on the grounds of the Fire Museum of Texas, 400 Walnut St., Beaumont.

The Fire Festival Kick-Off party in October marks the beginning of Fire Prevention Month, with a goal to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention through a fun, family-focused experience.

The free event will include food, games, bounce houses, prizes and live demonstrations from Beaumont Fire/

learn about the past, present and future of Big Thicket from the staff.

EMS personnel, as well as activities provided by local vendors throughout Southeast Texas.

For more information or vendor/ sponsorship opportunities, call (409) 880-3927.

Big Thicket National Preserve celebrating 50 years

The Big Thicket National Preserve (BTNP) will celebrate 50 years on Saturday, Oct. 12, at the visitor center from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The free familyfriendly event will feature a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new trail, free lunch, activities led by Big Thicket staff and partner groups and guest speakers talking about the importance of Big Thicket, which was established in 1974.

Dr. Ben Morris, an assistant professor of music composition at Stephen F. Austin State University, will be giving the keynote presentation about his recently debuted multimedia composition that tells the story of the longleaf pine forest. It will be followed by a short question-and-answer session with the composer.

The new Longleaf Pine Trail will be formally opened in the afternoon. Visitors will be able to walk the short trail beginning from the visitor center and

Multiple booths will be open throughout the event for visitors to learn more about other organizations that support Big Thicket. Cultural demonstrations by the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe and the Atakapa-Ishak Tribe will take place throughout the day and a free lunch will be provided by the Big Thicket Association.

“Fifty years is a milestone worth celebrating,” stated Superintendent Wayne Prokopetz. “We can’t wait to have our biggest supporters, the communities in Southeast Texas, help us celebrate.”

Find general information about BTNP, call the preserve visitor center at (409) 951-6700.

Master weaver to speak at McFaddin-Ward

Internationally-known textile historian, designer and master weaver Rabbit Goody will detail the process of creating historically accurate textiles for museums, the film industry and clothing companies during her free public lecture, “A Stitch in Time: Historic Textiles for Museums, Movies and Designers,” presented by the McFaddin-Ward House on Thursday, Oct. 10, at 6:30 p.m. in the museum’s Visitor Center Lecture Hall, 1906 Calder Ave. in Beaumont. Goody says she knew what to do from the very beginning “as if from some past life”

when she started weaving without formal instruction at age 16.

“I compare it to people who can pick up a musical instrument and play,” Goody said. “There’s some innate knowledge that’s in your D.N.A. somehow. It just made sense to me. Weaving is really just mathematics, and so, I didn’t have to study a lot to be able to do it.”

As owner and operator of Thistle Hill Weavers in New York for the past three decades, Goody has created historically accurate textiles for museums and historic houses such as George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and The Lincoln Birthplace. Her studio has also produced custom fabrics for numerous films, including “Master and Commander” (2003), “Lincoln” (2012), “Road to Perdition” (2002) and “Winter’s Tale” (2014).

Earlier this year, she was featured in “Smithsonian Magazine.”

In conjunction with the lecture, Goody will offer a free Textile Identification Clinic for the public, which will be held at the McFaddin-Ward House Visitor Center on Friday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Suggested items to bring include quilts, blankets, tablecloths, wall hangings, samplers and historic clothing. Item limit is three pieces per person. Reservations are encouraged by calling (409) 832-2134. McFaddin-Ward House lectures are free and open to the public, but space is limited. Doors open at 6 p.m.

sports

HIGHSCHOOLFOOTBALL

Week 6 Schedule

Thursday, Oct. 3

East Chambers (3-1) @ Hardin (4-1), 7p

Friday, Oct. 4

Lufkin (4-1) @ West Brook (2-2), 7p PA Memorial (4-1) @ Galveston Ball (5-0), 7p Nederland (3-1) @ Dayton (2-2), 7p PNG (4-0) @ Huntsville (4-1), 7p Trinity (4-1) @ Kountze (3-1), 7p Newton (2-3) @ New Waverly (2-2), 7p Deweyville (4-1) @ Colmesneil (2-3), 7p West Hardin (4-1) @ Evadale (3-1), 7p

Burkeville (2-2) @ Legacy Christian (1-4), 7p

Vidor (1-3) @ Bridge City (4-0), 7:30p

Hardin-Jefferson (3-1) @ LCM (2-2), 7:30p

Lumberton (0-4) @ Huffman (4-0), 7:30p

Orangefield (3-2) @ Anahuac (4-1), 7:30p

Kirbyville (3-2) @ Coldspring (3-2), 7:30p Warren (1-4) @ Woodville (4-1), 7:30p

Week 4

Scores

PA Memorial 34, Bmt United d0

PNG 62, Lake Creek 56

Nederland 63, Splendora 12

Hardin-Jefferson 33, Livingston 24

Bridge City 28, Lumberton 7

LCM 16, Vidor 12

Hamshire-Fannett 34, Stafford 14

WOS 34, Crawford 14

Palestine Westwood 43, Kelly 0

Legacy 63, SA Lutheran 33

Carthage 58, Jasper 14

Hitchcock 42, Silsbee 10

East Chambers 34, Buna 6

Anahuac 49, Kirbyville 6

Orangefield 59, Hardin 0

New Waverly 31, Warren 0

Deweyville 27, West Sabine 18

West Hardin 40, Hull-Daisetta 14

Sabine Pass 27, Colmesneil 8

Evadale 34, Acadiana Christian 6

On the football side, Central Arkansas jumped out to a 10-point first quarter lead and never surrendered the advantage in a matchup of two nationally ranked teams Sept. 28 at Estes Stadium. Central Arkansas topped the No. 19 Cardinals, 34-14, dropping Big Red to 3-2 on the season.

Lamar’s offense struggled to find its rhythm Saturday finishing the night with 220 total yards of offense. The Bears recorded 439, including 281 on the ground.

The Cardinals played some opportunistic football throughout the game recording a blocked punt – their third block of the season – to go along with an interception and a fumble recovery.

Lamar (3-2) will have a week off before they return to action Saturday, Oct. 12, to host Stephen F. Austin (2-2) for Homecoming at 3 p.m.

In their first conference sweep since 2020, LU volleyball came out victorious against New Orleans on the road Sept. 28 by the score of 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-23). This marks the first win for the Cardinals in the Big Easy since 2016.

Lamar (9-5, 1-1 SLC) finished the match hitting 40-15-107 (.234) with seven aces and eight blocks. Sophomore Lyric Jordan led the team with 12 kills while freshman Maja Malinowska finished with eight kills and a teambest 11 digs. Freshman Ashlyn Gamble added a career-high six blocks.

outings of the season, Shugart recorded a 1.64 ERA (2 ER/11.0 IP) and .190 opponent batting average (8-for-42).

He was selected by Boston in the 12th round of the 2018 First-Year Player MLB Draft.

Lamar Cardinals

Baseball

The Boston Red Sox announced the winners of the organization’s 2024 Minor League Awards that included former Bridge City standout Chase Shugart as the team’s Relief Pitcher of the Year.

Shugart, 27, made five appearances for the Red Sox in 2024, his Major League debut, posting a 4.70 ERA (4 ER/7.2 IP) with one save. The righthander also went 6-2 with a 4.46 ERA (35 ER/70.2 IP) and 80 strikeouts in 36 games (five starts) with Triple-A Worcester. In his final eight Triple-A

Led by Isela Ramirez’s first two goals of the season, LU’s soccer team exploded for four goals and earned their first conference win on the season, toppling Nicholls 4-0 on Sept. 29 at the LU Soccer Complex.

Ramirez scored on both of her shot attempts to record her first multi-goal game since 2021 against Alcorn. Also scoringfortheCardinalswereAnneliese Switzer and Ronke Abudu. Maddie Rich would spend 80 minutes in goal recording five saves while Taylor Howard came on in relief in the final 10 minutes to preserve the shutout.

For her efforts, Rich was named the Southland Conference Goalkeeper of the Week. The sophomore from Katy, Texas recorded 12 saves in two wins last week for LU.

The Cardinals (3-5-3, 1-1-1) will make the road trip east to Hammond, Louisiana, to take on Southeastern Louisiana (3-5-1, 2-1) on Friday, Oct. 4, at 7 p.m.

Senior Robert Coleman returned to the line up behind center and completed 11-of-20 passes for 112 yards on the night, but was picked off once. He connected with six receivers in the game. Classmate Sevonne Rhea hauled in a game-high five catches for 55 yards. Fellow senior running back Khalan Griffin led LU’s ground attack with 18 carries for 72 yards and one touchdown.

Junior Kristian Pugh was the leader on defense with 10 tackles including seven solo stops.

The Cards return home to McDonald Gym on Thursday, Oct. 3, to host Texas A&M-Commerce

Lamar returns home next week for their conference home opener against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (6-9, 3-0) on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. The Cards will then travel to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (4-8, 0-2) on Saturday, Oct. 5, at 1 p.m.

Stephen F. Austin (10-5, 2-0) will visit the volleyball Cardinals on Tuesday, Oct. 8, at 6:30 p.m.

East Chambers Buccaneers (3-1)

Shugart

More about the death of a spouse

Sometimes I’ll include something in a column about a broader topic that I think is just a small, almost insignificant piece of the puzzle. But then that nugget ends up confusing many people, causing them to write to me for clarification.

That happened recently when I wrote about the measly $255 one-time benefit that Social Security pays when someone dies. One of the points I made in that column is that the benefit can only be paid to a spouse who was living in the same household with the deceased at the time of death.

Many readers wrote to me explaining that their spouse is living in a long-term care facility or other institution because he or she can no longer be taken care of at home. And they asked if that means they will not qualify for the death benefit when the spouse dies.

The good news is they will qualify for the death benefit. The Social Security rulebook says that the “living in the same household” law will apply if the couple is apart for medical reasons and would have otherwise been living together.

Second, the law says you must be alive for an entire month to get a Social Security check for that month. And third, Social Security benefits have never been prorated. People don’t like this rule because the Social Security check for the month of death must be returned. For example, let’s say Mary is a 72-year-old woman whose 78-yearold husband, Fred, dies on Sept. 28. Mary would not be due the proceeds of that September Social Security check (paid in October) even though Fred was alive for 28 days of the month.

Tom

Margenau columnist

I griped in that column, as I have a hundred times in the past, that the $255 “death benefit” is a joke and that it should be raised. I suggested maybe $2,500. Coincidentally, a reader, who is a Canadian citizen, wrote to tell me that the Canadian Social Security system does pay a $2,500 one-time death benefit.

But there is a flip side to this lack of proration rule. If Fred does die on Sept. 28, Mary would be due widow’s benefits for the whole month of September, even though she was a widow for only three days of the month.

As I’ve explained many times, the lack of proration can help out when someone first starts getting Social Security.

For example, if Fred took benefits at age 66 and he turned 66 on April 30 of that year, he would have received a check for the whole month of April even though he was 66 for only one day of the month.

Security and You

So, when Mary’s husband dies, the Social Security check for the month of death (paid the following month) must be returned. But that’s only if she gets the check in the first place.

Mary usually doesn’t have to worry about returning any Social Security checks. It’s almost always done for her.

There can be a little twist to this scenario, though. For example, let’s say that your husband dies on Oct. 2. And let’s say that his Social Security check was normally sent to him on the third of each month. In other words, your husband died just before his Social Security check was deposited into his bank account. Because he was alive the whole month of September, that means he was due the money from that September check. And now you, as his widow, are due that money. Sometimes, bank officials will sort of just wink at you and let you keep the proceeds of that last Social Security check. But if they follow the letter of the law, that September Social Security benefit (paid on Oct. 3) would have to be returned to the Social Security Administration. Then it would be reissued to you in your name. (There is a form that needs to be filled out to get that to happen. You’d have to talk to an SSA rep about that.)

You will have to contact the SSA at (800) 772-1213 to set up an appointment to file a widow’s claim. (For reasons too complicated to explain in this column, widow’s claims must be filed in person.) At the same time, you will file a claim for that measly little one-time death benefit of $255 I discussed at the beginning of this column. You will probably need to provide two bits of documentation: a copy of your marriage papers and a death certificate.

Anyway, since I’m talking about benefits for a deceased person, I’ll spend the rest of this column going over what to do when a spouse or relative dies.

The first issue I will cover is what to do with the final Social Security check for the deceased. I must start by making three points. First, Social Security checks are paid one month behind. So, for example, the check you get in September is the benefit payment for August.

I added that qualifier because there is a very good chance the check won’t even show up in the person’s bank account. As you maybe have heard, there are all kinds of computer-matching operations that go on between various government agencies and banks. So, if the Treasury Department learns of a person’s death in time, they won’t even issue the Social Security benefit. Or, if the check was issued, the bank will likely intercept the payment and return it to the government before it even hits their checking account. In other words,

So far, I’ve been talking about dealing with the last Social Security check that was sent to your husband. Now let’s talk about getting any Social Security widow’s benefits that will be due. Because you said his benefit is more than yours, after he dies, your benefit will be bumped up to whatever he was getting at the time of death. For example, if he was getting $2,800 per month and you are getting $2,100, after he dies, you will start getting $700 in widow’s benefits to take your total benefits up to his $2,800 level.

There may be some women reading this column who are not getting their own Social Security, but instead are getting only spousal benefits on their husband’s account. If that is you, when your husband dies, no widow’s application is required. You would simply notify the SSA that your husband died, and they switch you from wife’s benefits to widow’s benefits. As part of the process, you may have to provide a copy of the death certificate. I say “may have to provide” because there is a chance the SSA will already have some proof of death in their files. And you don’t need to provide a marriage certificate because you already did that back when you filed for spousal benefits.

Finally, let me make this point. In this column, I kept referring to a woman whose husband dies. The same rules would apply to a man whose wife dies or to a member of a same sex couple whose partner dies.

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.”

Death Notices

Jommy Clyde Holder, 73, of Beaumont, died September 28, 2024.

Michael Wayne Poole, 70, of Lumberton, died September 28, 2024.

Bessie Mae Proctor Trahan, 90, of Saratoga, died September 28, 2024.

Kittie Faye Kay, 80, of Nederland, died September 28, 2024.

Thomas Olan Vernon, Jr., 95, of Beaumont, died September 28, 2024.

DonnaKayWelch, 70, of Nederland, died September 27, 2024.

Rick Outcalt, 73, of Beaumont, died September 27, 2024.

Bobby Lee Miles, 73, of Silsbee, died September 25, 2024.

Betty “Memaw” Mattison, 92, of Beaumont, died September 25, 2024.

Tony “PawPaw” Rosetta, 85, of Beaumont, died September 25, 2024.

Mahendrakumar S. Patel, 70, of Beaumont, died September 24, 2024.

Joyce Nadine Hughes Owens, 75, of Beaumont, died September 23, 2024.

Mary Jane Young, 77, of Silsbee, died September 23, 2024.

Cindy Ligon Vaughn, 73, of Sulphur, Louisiana, died September 23, 2024.

RoyGlennPotts,Jr., 57, of Silsbee, died September 23, 2024.

LeoHarrisSchion,95,ofNederland,diedSeptember 22, 2024.

JimmyDonArmour,84,ofKountze,diedSeptember 21, 2024.

Laura Jeanne Davidson Guye, 75, of China, died September 21, 2024.

Milby Dow Chauvin, 75, of Nederland, died September 21, 2024.

Beverly Ann Slaydon, 76, of Silsbee, died September 21, 2024.

Deborah Kay Bartels, 72, of Beaumont, died September 20, 2024.

Clifton Wayne Callaway, 58, of Silsbee, died September 20, 2024.

James A. Ainsworth, Sr., 86, of China, died September 20, 2024.

Craig Hill, 71, of Beaumont, died September 20, 2024.

Wanda Morgan, 70, of Sour Lake, died September 19, 2024.

Donna Jean Higginbotham, 59, of Beaumont, died September 19, 2024.

MelissaSueMullins, 45, of Silsbee, died September 19, 2024.

James Irving Graham, Sr., 74, of Kountze, died September 19, 2024.

BonnieMaeLee,83,ofBrookeland,diedSeptember 18, 2024.

Exa Dana Harvill Fountain, 96, of Bon Wier, died September 17, 2024.

Robert G. “Bob” Quinn, 80, of Beaumont, died

September 16, 2024.

Eamlie Posey-Landry, 77, of Orange, died September 20, 2024.

Bennie Dallas Ivy, 86, of Orange, died September 24, 2024.

Marlene Huckaby, 92, of Orange, died September 24, 2024.

Heather Ann Taylor, 52, of Beaumont, died September 23, 2024.

Marie Elaine Johnson, 100, of Orange, died September 22, 2024.

JoAnn Bradley, 83, of Orange, died September 22, 2024.

Tommy Lynn Woodcock, Jr., 46, of Orange, died September 20, 2024.

Jerry Dayton Rogers, 82, of Orange, died September 20, 2024.

Charles Joseph Hartman, 75, of Orange, died September 20, 2024.

James Tyler Duke, 20, of Mauriceville, died September 19, 2024.

Zilda Sue Darby-Bland, 82, of Bridge City, died September 19, 2024.

Bart Allen Corder, 56, of Orange, died September 18, 2024.

Maria "Ely" Elia Cortez, 79, of Bridge City, died September 18, 2024.

JamesArden"Jimmy"Jenkins, 81, of Mauriceville, died September 16, 2024.

Coach Tony M. Brown, Sr., 55, of Beaumont, died September 27, 2024.

Laura Lee Ford, 77, of Beaumont, died September 27, 2024.

Lelia Anita Charles Jeffero, 69, of Beaumont, died September 25, 2024.

Ronald Wayne Mayes, 68, of Beaumont, died September 24, 2024.

Ivory "Luv" Lee Johnson, 73, of Beaumont, died September 23, 2024.

DanielJones,Sr., 61, of Beaumont, died September 21, 2024.

Joseph A. Stelly, Sr., 83, of Beaumont, died September 19, 2024.

Damien"DLB"LawrenceBriggs, 36, of Beaumont, died September 16, 2024.

THEIRSCOMESKNOCKING

Sleuthing your way through a tax audit or responding to a letter from the IRS by yourself is not the same as fixing a leaky faucet or changing your oil. Here are reasons to partner with a tax professional as soon as youreceivealetterfromtheIRS:

• IRS auditors do this for a living – you don’t. Seasoned IRS agents see your situation many times and know the rules better than you. Even worse, they are under no obligation to teach you the rules. Just likeadefendantneedsthehelpofalawyerincourt,youneedsomeone in your corner that knows your rights and understands the correct tax codetoapplyincorrespondencewiththeIRS.

• Insufficientrecordswillcostyou.Whenselectedforanaudit,the IRS will typically make a written request for specific documents they want to see. The list may include receipts, bills, legal documents, loan agreements and other records. If you are missing something from the list, things get dicey. It may be possible to reconstruct some of your records, but you might have to rely on a good explanation to avoid additionaltaxesplusapossible20percentnegligencepenalty.

• Too much information can increase audit risk. While most audits are limited in scope, IRS agents have the authority to increase that scope based on what they find during their original analysis. That means if they find a document or hear something you say that soundssuspicious,theycanextendtheaudittoadditionalareas.Being prepared with proper support along with concise answers to their questionsisthebestapproachtolimitingfurtherauditrisk.

• Missinganauditdeadlinecanleadtotrouble. When you receive the original audit request, it will include a response deadline (typically 30 days). If you miss the deadline, the IRS will change your tax return using their interpretation of findings, not yours. This typically means assessing new taxes, interest and penalties. If you wish your point of viewtobeheard,gethelprightawaytoprepareaplanandmanagethe IRS'sdeadlines.

• Relying on an expert gives you peace of mind. Tax audits are never fun, but they don’t have to be pull-your-hair-out stressful. A tax expert can help map out a plan and take it step-by-step to ensure the best possible outcome. You’ll rest easy knowing your audit situation is beinghandledbysomeonewiththeproperexpertisethatalsohasyour bestinterestsinmind.

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.

I & E Maintenance Engineer

I & E Project Manager Lab Technician

Planning and Scheduling Team Leader

Procurement Team Lead

Safety Intern

Sr. HR Business Partner

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!

General Utility 16754755 BEAUMONT, 77701

Maintain the Machine Shop and other production areas throughout the plant facility. Perform painting and assembly operations of valves and hydrants as needed. Interpret the Material Detail List (MDL) to gather product specifications. High school diploma or equivalent,noexperiencerequired.Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Paint Coordinator 16751527 BEAUMONT, 77708

Performthequalitycontrolactivitiesas the client to observe, test, verify conformance, and report the technical aspects of assigned coating project/s. Provide objective and professional QC records of the coating systems conformance or deviation from the defined project specification. Read and understand the coating specification/s. Perform as part of an effective team. Perform pre-inspection meetings if required. Understand cures for design, fabrication defects, and hard to reach areas in regard to surface preparation, and coatings. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Pipe General Foreman 16751537 BEAUMONT, 77708

Strong knowledge of pipefitting, tools, procedures, and best practices. Ability to lead multiple foremen and crews. Assign job tasks to each foreman and ensure that each foreman is properly

trained. Being a safety role model for the team. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Structural Welder 16746074 BEAUMONT 77708

Weld skids, structural steel and related equipment according to specifications. Read drawings and recognize basic symbolsforthejobapplication.Operate tools and equipment including: angle grinders, beveling machines, cut-off grinders, hammers, tape measure, levelsandtorches.Call1-877-834-5627 toapply.

Assignment Editor/Photographer 16730963 BEAUMONT 77701

Aggressivelyconfirminformationabout breakingnewsanddispatchcrewswith urgency.Publishcontenttowebsiteand social media accounts. Enterprise news stories. No experience needed, high school diploma or equivalent. Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Construction Inspector I-IIIBeaumont Area Office 16753405 BEAUMONT 77708

Ensures adequate levels of equipment and materials are assigned to projects; ensures material tests are performed andmaterialsmeetrequiredstandards.

Drives to ensure contractors build roadways, bridges and related highway structures and airport improvements in accordance with plans and specifications. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

HCV Counselor I

16754196 PORT ARTHUR, 77640

The primary purpose of this position is to perform intake, case management, and other activities in support of the Authority's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV). The incumbent performs a variety of tasks related to the regular HCV Program. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Process Technician Job 16754147 BEAUMONT, 77701

Observes instruments, meters and gauges to verify specified conditions and record readings. Operates pumps, compressors,fans,dryers,controlvalves and other equipment to achieve optimum operating conditions and product quality. Makes rounds on a periodicbasistoverifysafeandefficient operating conditions and to identify maintenance needs. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

Rodbuster 16753392 BEAUMONT, 77708

Spaceandfastentogetherrodsinforms according to blueprints using wire and pliers.Position and secure steel bars, rods, cables or mesh in concrete forms using fasteners and hand tools.Place blocksunderrebartoholdthebardsoff the deck.Bend steel rods with hand tools and rod-bending machines. 1.5 years experience as rodbuster. Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Boiler Maker

16710287 PORT ARTHUR, 77642

otheragenciesasrequried.Receivesand keypunchesrequestsforgroundandair response. Documents daily activity. No experience needed, high school diploma or equivalent. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

ES Clerk II

16754642 BEAUMONT, 77705 Provides clerical support to Eligibility Operationsstaff.Processmail,openand date stamps incoming applications and supporting documents. Reviews applications for required signature, date, and supporting documents. Logs applications and assigns complete applications for processing. Returns incomplete applications to clients and assists with completion when necessary/requested. Copies and returns original documents upon request to clients/customers. Responds to client inquiries and requests for assistance. Call 1-877-834-5627 to apply.

Engineer (Utility-Power Generation Plant)

16752725 ORANGE,77630 Conduct project management and technical oversight. Coordinate and execute betterment capital and O&M projects, interface with plant production and maintenance, project personnel, and other stakeholders. Ensure plant modification process is followed on projects. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

Administrative Assistant

is

and

protected by law.

Constructing, assembling, and installing tanks, furnaces, towers, heat exchangers, and other heavy metallic structures. Constructing specific components for hydroelectric power stations. Installing and maintaining large pipes used in dams to send water to and from hydroelectric power generation turbines. Call 1-877-8345627toapply.

Dispatcher

16752206 BEAUMONT, 77701

Assists ground and/or air resources for emergency and non-emergency responses. Coordinates first responder notification of fire departments and

16738452 ORANGE,77630 Manage calendar, schedule events, travel arrangements, departmental meetings,andarrangeconferencecalls. Manage correspondence and routine documents and presentations given minimal direction. Prepare documents, spreadsheets, presentations, interoffice correspondence, and copies. Manage administrativeaffairsofthedepartment including invoice processing, supply equipment procurement, training records, etc. Manage site mail, legal holds, and site calendars. Call 1-877834-5627toapply.

CDL Class A 16752567 PORT NECHES, 77651 Deliverpalletson48-53'trailersand53' dryvan.RouteisbetweenHoustonand Lake Charles. Not required to keep log. Mustbeabletodrivemanualtruck.Call 1-877-834-5627toapply.

Office Assistant

16752139 NEDERLAND, 77627

Job duties will include answering phones, taking messages, posting and issuing notices, filing, faxing and general clerical duties as assigned. Interested candidates are preferred to haveatleast2-3years.Call1-877-8345627toapply.

LegaLs

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Bids will be received by the City of Beaumont, Beaumont, Texas, until 2:00 P.M. (CT), THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2024, and all bids will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers on that date for:

ANNUAL CONTRACT OF GROUNDS MAINTENANCE FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. PARKWAY, BEAUMONT, TEXAS

A MANDATORY Pre-Bid meeting will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 9:00 A.M. (CT) in City Council Chambers located in City Hall, 801 Main St., Beaumont, Texas 77701.

Questions about the Bid must be submitted by 10:00 A.M. (CT) on Thursday, October 10, 2024. Answers to the questions may be provided through anAddendum.

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

Bids 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 bids, or to accept any bid or combination of bids deemed advantageous to it.

Please make reference to Bid Number: DF0924-31

Bid Closing Date: OCTOBER 17, 2024

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Proposals will be received by the City of Beaumont, Beaumont, Texas, until 2:00 P.M. (CT), THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2024, and all proposals will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers on that date for:

ANNUAL CONTRACT FOR MINOR HOME REPAIR PROGRAM, BEAUMONT, TEXAS

A MANDATORY Pre-Proposal meeting will be held onFriday,October4,2024, at 10:00A.M. (CST), in City Council Chambers located in City Hall at 801 Main St., First Floor, Beaumont, Texas 77701.

Questions about the bid must be submitted by 10:00A.M.(CST)onThursday, October 10, 2024. Answers to the questions may be provided through anAddendum.

Proposal forms, specificationsandallnecessaryinformation 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 torejectanyorallproposals, or to accept any proposal or combination of proposals deemed advantageous to it.

Please make reference to RFP Number: DF1025-01

Proposal Closing Date: OCTOBER 17, 2024

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Bids will be received by the City of Beaumont, Beaumont, Texas, until 2:00 P.M. (CST), THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2024, and all bids will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers on that date for:

ANNUAL CONTRACT FOR TOWING SERVICES FOR FLEET MANAGEMENT, CODE ENFORCEMENT,AND POLICE DEPARTMENT

Questions about the bid must be submitted by 10:00A.M.(CST)onThursday, October 10, 2024. Answers to the questions may be provided through anAddendum.

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

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

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

Please make reference to Bid Number: DF0924-32

Bid Closing Date: OCTOBER 17, 2024

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

INVITATION TO BID

Sealed bids will be received by the City of Beaumont, Texas, until 2:00 P.M. (CT) THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024, and all bids will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers

on that date for:

ANNUAL CONTRACT FOR TRAFFIC MARKING MATERIALS

Questions about the Bid must be submitted by 10:00 A.M. (CT) on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Answers to the questions may be provided through anAddendum.

Bidding forms, specifications, and all necessary information may be downloaded fromtheCity’se-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/ Login.aspx.

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

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

Please make reference to Bid Number: JF0924-69

Bid Closing Date: October 24, 2024

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

INVITATION TO BID

BID NO. PW1025-02

Sealed bids will be received online until 2:00 p.m. (CST), THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024, for furnishing all plans, administration, superintendence, labor, services, materials, tools, equipment, supplies, transportation, utilities, and all other items and facilities necessary therefore, as provided in the Contract Documents for the construction of:

CITY OF BEAUMONT

STREET PAVEMENT PRESERVATION CITYWIDE - PHASE II BID NO. PW1025-02

Bids will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. The City reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept any bid or combination of bids deemed advantageous to it.

Bidders must submit an original Bid Bond, Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or irrevocable Letter of Credit issued by a bank satisfactory to the Owner, payable without recourse to the order of the City of Beaumont in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the largest possible bid amount as a guaranty that the Bidder will enter into contract and execute bond and guaranty in the form provided within fourteen (14) calendar days after date of. Notice of Award of the contract. Bids withouttherequiredfinancial security deposit will not be considered.

Pre-bid Conference will be held at 9:00 A.M., on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2024, on Microsoft Teams. Attendees may join by internet or phone call:

https://bit.ly/4eODu7d +1903-405-2009

Passcode:32333863#

Attendance at the Pre-bid meeting is a prerequisite to bidding. Prior to the prebid conference, interested bidders should obtain forms of proposal, contract, bond, and specifications. No one will be allowed to enter the pre-bid virtually or in-person if arrival is later than 5 minutes after the designated time. Calls for any technical difficultiesmustbemadeprior to the meeting.

Biddingforms,specifications and all necessary information may be downloaded from the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/Login. aspx and on civcastusa. com. There is no cost to view the plans, and printing can be done through the websites. Sets of hard copies of bidding Documents will not be sold.

Bids must be submitted through the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/ Login.aspx. Vendorsmust registertosubmitabid. Be advised, e-bids is the only option to submit bids to the City of Beaumont effective 8/1/23.

Please make sure to reference to Bid Number: PW1025-02.

CITY OF BEAUMONT, TEXAS, OWNER

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

INVITATION TO BID

BID NO. PW1025-03

Sealed bids will be received online until 2:00 p.m. (CST), THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024, for furnishing all plans, administration, superintendence, labor, services, materials, tools, equipment, supplies, transportation, utilities, and all other items and facilities necessary therefore, as provided in the Contract Documents for the construction of:

CITY OF BEAUMONT

CONCRETE PAVEMENT

REPAIR CITYWIDEPHASE III

BID NO. PW1025-03

Bids will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. The City reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept any bid or combination of bids deemed advantageous to it.

Bidders must submit an original Bid Bond, Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or irrevocable Letter of Credit issued by a bank satisfac-

tory to the Owner, payable without recourse to the order of the City of Beaumont in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the largest possible bid amount as a guaranty that the Bidder will enter into contract and execute bond and guaranty in the form provided within fourteen (14) calendar days after date of Notice ofAward of the contract. Bids without the required financial security deposit will not be considered.

A MANDATORY virtual Pre-bid Conference will be held at 11:00 A.M., on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2024, on Microsoft Teams. Attendees may join by internet or phone call:

https://bit.ly/3XRORnQ +1 903-405-2009

Passcode: 418 089 649#

Attendance at the Pre-bid meeting is a prerequisite to bidding. Prior to the prebid conference, interested bidders should obtain forms of proposal, contract, bond, and specifications. No one will be allowed to enter the pre-bid virtually or in-person if arrival is later than 5 minutes after the designated time. Calls for any technical difficultiesmustbemadeprior to the meeting.

Biddingforms,specifications and all necessary information may be downloaded from the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/Login. aspx and on civcastusa. com There is no cost to view the plans, and printing can be done through the websites. Sets of hard copies of bidding Documents will not be sold.

Bids must be submitted through the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/ Login.aspx. Vendors must registertosubmitabid. Be advised, e-bids is the only option to submit bids to the City of Beaumont effective 8/1/23.

Please make sure to reference to Bid Number: PW1025-03

CITY OF BEAUMONT, TEXAS, OWNER

Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

INVITATION TO BID

BID NO. PW1025-04

Sealed bids will be received online until 2:00 p.m. (CST), THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024, for furnishing all plans, administration, superintendence, labor, services, materials, tools, equipment, supplies, transportation, utilities, and all other items and facilities necessary therefore, as provided in the Contract Documents for the construction of:

CITY OF BEAUMONT

BRIDGE REPAIR

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

CITYWIDE (REBID)

BID NO. PW1025-04

Bids will be opened and publicly read in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. The City reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept any bid or com-

bination of bids deemed advantageous to it.

Bidders must submit an original Bid Bond, Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or irrevocable Letter of Credit issued by a bank satisfactory to the Owner, payable without recourse to the order of the City of Beaumont in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the largest possible bid amount as a guaranty that the Bidder will enter into contract and execute bond and guaranty in the form provided within fourteen (14) calendar days after date of Notice ofAward of the contract. Bids without the required financial security deposit will not be considered.

A MANDATORY virtual Pre-bid Conference will be held at 10:00 A.M., on WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2024, on Microsoft Teams. Attendees may join by internet or phone call:

https://bit.ly/3ZMZ9Iz +1903-405-2009

Passcode:754554074#

Attendance at the Pre-bid meeting is a prerequisite to bidding. Prior to the prebid conference, interested bidders should obtain forms of proposal, contract, bond, and specifications. No one will be allowed to enter the pre-bid virtually or in-person if arrival is later than 5 minutes after the designated time. Calls for any technical difficultiesmustbemadeprior to the meeting.

Biddingforms,specifications and all necessary information may be downloaded from the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/Login. aspx and on civcastusa. com. There is no cost to view the plans, and printing can be done through the websites. Sets of hard copies of bidding Documents will not be sold.

Bids must be submitted through the City’s e-bids platform at: https://beaumonttexas.ionwave.net/ Login.aspx. Vendorsmust registertosubmitabid. Be advised, e-bids is the only option to submit bids to the City of Beaumont effective 8/1/23.

Please make sure to reference to Bid Number: PW1025-04

CITY OF BEAUMONT, TEXAS, OWNER

By: Tina Broussard, TRMC City Clerk

CITY OF BEAUMONT BEAUMONT, TEXAS *NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING*

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

DATE: Monday, October 14, 2024

TIME: 3:30 p.m.

PLACE: Council Chambers, City Hall, 801 Main Street

The meeting will also be broadcast on the

City’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCnY6nNk8zfXZulMg1zbwEBg

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness to construct a second driveway. Planning Division File #PZ2024-265.

FILED BY: KW Rentals

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 2137 Liberty Avenue

ON PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Being Lot 10 and the Western half of Lot 11, including the adjacent alleyway, Block 5, McFaddin Second Addition Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 0.217 acres, more or less.

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness to install an 8’ fence. Planning Division File #PZ2024-266.

FILED BY: Charlie Jones

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 2390 Broadway Street

ON PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Being all of Lots 15 and 16, Block 22, Averill Addition Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 0.306 acres, more or less.

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: A request for a Certificate of Appropriateness to support a designation for a State Historical Marker. Planning Division File #PZ2024-296.

FILED BY: Jennifer Trenbeath

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 801 Pearl Street

ON PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Being all of Block 12, Beaumont Townsite, SE Library, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 4.55 acres, more or less.

“Equal Housing Opportunity”

THE MEETING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION

Elayna Luckey, Planner l

CITY OF BEAUMONT BEAUMONT, TEXAS

*NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING*

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

DATE: Monday, October 21, 2024

TIME: 3:00 p.m.

PLACE: City Council Chambers, 1st Floor of 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 FOL-

LOWING: A request for approval of a Replat of a portion of Tract II, Executive Business Park Section II Addition and Lot 2, Executive Business Park Section III Addition and a portion of Tract 39, Plat D14 of the A. Williams Survey, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas into Block 1, Reserve 1, Caliber Beaumont Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson, County, Texas. Planning Division File: PZ2024-295.

FILED BY: Rodney Davis of Destin Developments LLC

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 3375 Avenue C

ON PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Being all of Lot 4 and the Northern half of Lot 5 Block 1, Louis Amaimo Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 0.241 acres more or less.

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

DATE: Monday, October 21, 2024

TIME: 3:15 p.m.

PLACE: City Council Chambers, 1st Floor of City Hall, 801 Main Street

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: A request for a Specific Use Permit to allow a duplex in an RS (Residential – Single-Family) District. Planning Division File: PZ2024-271.

FILED BY: Rodney Davis of Destin Developments LLC

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 3375 Avenue C ON PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Being all of Lot 4 and the Northern half of Lot 5 Block 1, Louis Amaimo Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 0.241 acres more or less.

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: A request for a Specific Use Permit to allow a second dwelling unit on a property located in an RS (Residential – Single-family) District. Planning Division File: PZ2024-276.

FILED BY: Christopher Vargas

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 8590 Humble Road

ON PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Being all of Lot 8, Unit 4, Amelia South Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 0.289 acres more or less.

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: A request for Rezoning from an RM-H (Residential Multiple Family – High Density) District to GC-MD (General Commercial – Multiple Family) or a more restrictive zoning district. Planning Division File: PZ2024-286.

FILEDBY: DeeRichardReal Estate Investments LLC

LOCATION OF PROPERTY: Lots South of 3250 S 11th Street

ON PROPERTY DE-

SCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

Being all of Lots 10-13, Block 4, West Oakland Addition, Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, containing 0.64 acres more or less.

TO CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING: To consider proposed amendments to Chapter 28, Section 28.03.023 and Section 28.04.008(23)(32)(33) of the City of Beaumont Code of Ordinances. Planning Division File: PZ2024-292.

FILEDBY: CityofBeaumont

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

PLANNING COMMISSION

Demi Engman, Secretary

LEGAL NOTICE

Advertisement for Invitation for Bids

October 8, 2024

Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be accepted by the Jefferson County Purchasing Department for Invitation for Bid (IFB 24062/MR) Jefferson County Diversion Center Renovation, pursuant to Chapter 262, Texas Local Government Code, the County PurchasingAct and 2 CFR Sections 200.318-326. Specificationsforthisproject may be obtained from the Jefferson County website, https://www.co.jefferson.tx.us/Purchasing/ or by calling 409-835-8593.

Bids are to be sealed and addressed to the Purchasing Agent with the bid number and name marked on the outside of the envelope or box. Bidders shall forward an original and two (2) copies of their bid to the address shown below. Jefferson County does not accept bids submitted electronically. Late bids will be rejected as non-responsive.

Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Jefferson County Engineering Department Conference Room (5th Floor, Historic Courthouse) 1149 Pearl Street, Beaumont, Texas 77701, at the time and date below. Bidders are invited to attend the sealed bid opening.

BID NAME: Jefferson County Diversion Center Renovation, pursuant to Chapter 262, Texas Local Government Code, the County Purchasing Act and 2 CFR Sections 200.318-326.

BID NUMBER: IFB 24-062/ MR

DUE BY TIME/DATE: 11:00

AM CT, Wednesday, November 13, 2024

MAIL OR DELIVER TO: Jefferson County Purchasing Department 1149PearlStreet,1stFloor Beaumont, Texas 77701

There will be a Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference and Walk-Through at 10:00 AM CT on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the Diversion CenterSiteLocationat3890 FM 3514, Beaumont, Texas 77705.

The County shall require the Bidder to furnish a Bid Security in the amount of

five percent (5%) of the total contract cost. The bid bond must be executed with a surety company authorized to do business in the State of Texas.

Within ten (10) days after the date of contract execution and prior to the issuance of Notice to Proceed and/or Purchase Order, the Bidder shall furnish the following bonds: Performance Bond to the County for the full amount of the contract if the contract exceeds one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000). Payment Bond to the County for the full amount of the contract if the contract exceeds twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00).

Any questions relating to these bid requirements should be directed to Mistey Reeves, Assistant Purchasing Agent at 409-835-8593 or via email at: mistey. reeves@jeffcotx.us. If no response in 72 hours, contact Deborah Clark, Purchasing Agent at 409-835-8593 or via email at: deb.clark@jeffcotx.us.

Jefferson County encourages Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), Minority/Women Business Enterprises (M/WBEs), and Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) to participate in the bidding process. Jefferson County does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in employment, or the provisions of services. Individuals requiring special accommodations are requested to contact our office at least seven (7) days prior to the bid due date at 409835-8593.

All interested firms are invited to submit a bid in accordance with the terms and conditions stated in this bid.

Bidders are strongly encouraged to carefully read the entire invitation, as failure to return and/or complete all required documentation will result in a response being declared as non-responsive.

Deborah L. Clark, PurchasingAgent

Jefferson County, Texas

NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE STATE OF TEXAS No. F221767 ASHLEY JEFFORDS VS. CAMERON KNAUS

CITATION BY PUBLICATION 279th DISTRICT COURT of JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: CAMERON PAUL KNAUS

AND TO ALL IT MAY CONCERN, CAMERON PAUL KNAUS 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 againstyou,theanswerdate being at or before 10 o’clock A.M. on Monday, October 21, 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:

Ashley Lynn Jeffords was filed in the 279th Family District Court of Jefferson County, Texas, on the 12th day ofAugust 2014 against

CAMERON PAULKNAUS RESPONDENT

numbered F221767 and entitled ‘In the Interest of:

DAKOTARILEY JEFFORDS

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:

DAKOTARILEY JEFFORDS. 07/19/2012

ISSUED and GIVEN under myhandandthesealofsaid court, at office, this the 5th day of September 2024.

The court has the authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree in the interest of the CHILD will be binding upon you, including the termination of the parent-child 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 Damaris Miranda, Deputy Damaris Miranda, Deputy

THE STATE OF TEXAS

No. C235069 CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES VS ASHLEY JEFFORDS, ETAL

CITATION BY PUBLICATION 317th DISTRICT COURT of JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: CAMERON PAUL KNAUS

AND TO ALL IT MAY CONCERN, CAMERON PAUL KNAUS 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 againstyou,theanswerdate being at or before 10 o’clock A.M. on Monday, October 28, 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:

Ashley Lynn Jeffords

was filed in the 317th Family District Court of Jefferson County, Texas, on the 22nd day of May 2019 against

CAMERON PAULKNAUS RESPONDENT

NumberedC235069andentitled ‘In the Interest of:

DAKOTAJEFFORDS

SKYE COOLEY

The nature the suit is a request for PETITION TO MODIFY THE PARENT CHILD RELATIONSHIP.

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

DAKOTAJEFFORDS

07/19/2012

SKYE COOLEY 05/12/2016

ISSUED and GIVEN under myhandandthesealofsaid court, at office, this the 11th day of September 2024.

The court has the authority in this suit to enter any judgment or decree in the interest of the CHILDREN will be binding upon you, including the termination of the parent-child relationship, the determination of paternity and the appointment of a conservator with authority to consent to the adoption of the CHILDREN.

JAMIE SMITH, DISTRICT CLERK JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS BY DianeHerrera, Deputy Diane Herrera, Deputy

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Mary Claudine Cox, Deceased, were issued on August 19, 2024, in Cause No. 24CCPR0968, pending in the County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to: Richard L. Cox.

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

c/o Richard G. Lewis

BONEAU & LEWIS, P.L.L.C.

Attorney at Law

1503 S. Highway 69 Nederland, TX 77627

DATED the 13th day of September 2024.

/s/ Richard G. Lewis

Richard G. Lewis

Attorney for Richard L. Cox

State Bar No.: 12302300

BONEAU & LEWIS, P.L.L.C.

1503 S. Highway 69 Nederland, TX 77627

Telephone: (409) 983-5188

Facsimile: (409) 983-4171

Email: Rglewis1@sbcglobal.net

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS

§ COUNTY OF JEFFERSON

§

Viola G. Carreon appointed Independent Executor of the Estate of Roberto Carreon, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR0757 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on July 29, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to her, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis19th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS

§ COUNTY OF JEFFERSON

§

Wanda Gail Neel, appointed Independent Executor of the Estate of Nolan Ray Neel, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR0755 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on July 29, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to her, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis19th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §

Raymond Gene Elmore, appointed Independent Executor of the Estate of Willie Mae Elmore, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR1076 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on August 26, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to him, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis19th

day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §

Dempsey Scalf, appointed Independent Executor of the Estate of Deborah Mills Scalf, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR0754 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on July 29, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to him, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis19th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §

Jeanine Dartez, A.K.A. Jeanine Dartez Mullin and Lori Denise Porter A.K.A. Lori Denie Porter, appointed Independent Executrices of the Estate ofAngelina Bruno Dartez Deceased, Cause #24CCPR0910 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on August 26, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to him, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis26th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §

Jewel Jenette Johnson, appointed Independent Executor of the Estate of Sarah Simpson Williams, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR1109 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on September 11, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the es-

tate to present them to him, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis27th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §

Johnny Michael Porter, appointed Independent Executor of the Estate of LillyAdell Porter, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR1053 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on August 19, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to him, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis27th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §

Melinda Alane McGee and Chandra Pylate Guzeman, appointed Independent Co-Executors of the Estate of James P. Pylate, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR1163 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on September 23, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to him, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis26th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS

THE STATE OF TEXAS § COUNTY OF JEFFERSON §

Hannah Charlene Feldschau, appointed Independent Executor of the Estate of Charles Feld-

schau, Deceased, Cause #24CCPR0696 in Jefferson County, Texas, by the Judge of the County Court of said County on September 11, 2024, hereby notifies all persons indebted to said estate to come forward and make settlement, and those having claims against the estate to present them to him, within the time prescribed by law,

c/o LAW OFFICE OF LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR., attorney for said estate, at 1217 Nederland Avenue, Nederland, Texas.

WITNESSmyhandthis27th day of September 2024.

LAIRON W. DOWDEN, JR. State Bar #06072700 (409) 724-7979

THE STATE OF TEXAS No. 24DCCV1512

LABELLE PROPERTIES, LTD., ETAL VS. CHARLES BOLINGER, ETAL

CITATION BY PUBLICATION –CHARLES BOLINGER, DECEASED, ETAL

58TH DISTRICT COURT of JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS

To: CHARLES BOLINGER, DECEASED, ETAL 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 againstyou,theanswerdate being at or before 10 o’clock A.M. on Monday, November 04, 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’s Office, 1085 Pearl St., Room 203, Beaumont,TX77701,orbybringing it to the office. The case is presently pending before the 58th District Court of Jefferson County sitting in Beaumont, Texas, and was filed on the 26th day of August 2024. It bears cause number 24DCCV1512 and is styled:

LABELLE PROPERTIES, LTD, ETAL vs. CHARLES BOLINGER, ETAL

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

ETHAN L. SHAW 1690 SHAOLCREEK BLVD. SUITE 301 AUSTIN, TX 78701

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 19th day of September 2024.

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

CAUSE NO. 24CCPR1142

ESTATE OF LEZY MANUEL, DECEASED

§§ IN THE COUNTY COURT OF JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS IN PROBATE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Lezy Manuel, Deceased, were

issued on September 23, 2024, under Docket No. 24CCPR1142pendinginthe County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, in Probate, to Ruby Theresa Manuel.

Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the estate, addressed as follows:

Ruby Theresa Manuel IndependentExecutrixofthe Estate of Lezy Manuel

c/o FrankA.Adams 3280 Delaware Street

Beaumont, Texas 77703

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

Dated: September 24, 2024

/s/ Frank A. Adams FrankA.Adams,Attorney for Ruby Theresa Manuel , Independent Executrix of the Estate of Lezy Manuel State Bar No. 00855700 3280 Delaware Street

Beaumont, Texas 77703

Phone: 409-899-1900

Fax: 409-892-3903

Email: frankaadamspc@ yahoo.com

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters of Administration for the Estate of Wilbert Jimmy Sonnier, Deceased, were issued on September 18, 2024, in Cause No. 24CCPR0975, pending in the County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to: Christopher James Sonnier.

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.

Mr. Christopher James Sonnier

Independent Administrator of the Estate of Wilbert Jimmy Sonnier, Deceased

c/o Thomas O. Moses

Attorney at Law 2499 CalderAve. Beaumont, TX 77702

DATED the 25th day of September, 2024.

/s/ Thomas O. Moses

THOMAS O. MOSES

Attorney for Christopher James Sonnier

IndependentAdministrator of the Estate of Wilbert Jimmy Sonnier, Deceased

State Bar No.: 14579000 2499 CalderAvenue

Beaumont, Texas 77702

Telephone: (409) 838-4422

Facsimile: (409) 838-2017

Email: moseslawfirm@ aol.com

NOTICE TOALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMSAGAINST THE ESTATE OF GILBERT J. LEGE a/k/a GILBERT JURIS LEGE, DECEASED

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Gilbert J.

Legea/k/aGilbertJurisLege Deceased, were issued on September 17, 2024, in Cause No. 24CCPR1086 pending in the County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to CRAIGANTHONY LEGE.

The address of such Independent Executor is:

CRAIGANTHONY LEGE

c/o Bradley Law Firm

P. O. Box 1148

Port Neches, TX 77651

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

DATED the 24th day of September 2024.

BRADLEY LAW FIRM

Attorneys at Law

P. O. Box 1148 Port Neches, TX 77651 (409) 724-6644

By:/s/ Stephen L. Townsend

STEPHEN L. TOWNSEND

State Bar No. 24071539

NOTICE TO CREDITORS No. 24CCPR0991

Notice toAll Persons Having ClaimsAgainst the Estate of Doris Jane Ellis Davis, Deceased

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Doris Jane Ellis Davis, Deceased, were issued on September 16, 2024, in Cause No. 24CCPR0991pendinginthe County Court of Jefferson County, Texas, to: Jacob Lee Davis, as Independent Executor, whose mailing address is:

Estate of Doris Jane Ellis

Davis

c/o Michael K. Hatchett 11200 Broadway Street, Ste. 2705 Pearland, TX 77584.

Attorney for the Estate of Gilbert J. Lege a/k/a Gilbert Juris Lege, Deceased

Dated this 25th day of September 2024.

(s) Michael K. Hatchett

State Bar No. 00796723 11200 Broadway, Ste. 2705 Pearland TX 77584 Tel. 281-795-6827

Fax: +1-844-463-5297

TBN: 00796723

NOTICE TOALL PERSONS HAVING CLAIMSAGAINST THE ESTATE OF DORIS JANE STEELE, DECEASED

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the ESTATE OF DORIS JANE STEELE, DECEASED were issued on September 30, 2024, in Cause No. P20013, pending in the County Court at Law of Orange County, Texas, to Mark Dwayne Steele, Sr., a/k/a Mark Dwayne Steele.

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

The address of such Independent Executor is:

Mark Dwayne Steele, Sr., a/k/a Mark Dwayne Steele 10100 Laura Drive Orange, Texas 77630

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

Dated this 1st day of October 2024.

RANDY DREWETT, P.C. 6280 Delaware, SuiteA Beaumont, Texas 77706 (409) 833-4000 By: /s/ Randy Drewett

Randy Drewett,Attorney for Mark Dwayne Steele, Sr., a/k/a Mark Dwayne Steele, Independent Executor of the Estate of Doris Jane Steele, Deceased

Entertainment SOUTHEAST TEXAS

Sip with scarecrows at Shangri La

By Chad Cooper Entertainment Editor

Now that it’s officially October, the fall frenzy is underway. Every October, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center in Orange hosts the largest Scarecrow Festival in Texas with dozens of hand-crafted scarecrow exhibits displayed throughout the gardens. Created by talented members from community organizations, businesses, schools, churches and families, scarecrow designs range from funny to clever to wacky and weird – no two scarecrows are ever the same.

For those who have never been to Shangri La Botanical Gardens, shame on you. It’s nestled within 252 acres in the heart of Orange at 2111 W. Park Ave. and is an ecological wonderland and living museum for visitors of all ages to explore.

Celebrate the changing of the sea son at their 14th Annual Scare crow Festival held Oct. 8-26. The Southeast Texas community is invited to enjoy the unique scarecrow contest exhibits, fall flowering displays such as marigolds and crotons, thousands of pumpkins, and autumn decorations displayed throughout Shangri La Gardens. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free.

“It’s a beautiful time of year to see Shangri La Botanical Gardens,” said

What excites me the most is the scarecrow creativity. It gets better and better every year.”

this after-hours experience while enjoying live music and treats during the golden hour. Admission is also free.”

Angie Mason, executive director. “All of the fall colors you can think of are here, even the sunflowers.

The scarecrow exhibits are always innovative, inspiring and kind to the world as they are created with repurposed and recycled materials. Visitors may also vote for their favorite scarecrow exhibit in the Scarecrow Festival.

For the first time, visitors will also get a chance to view the scarecrows at night during the Sip and Stroll – Thursday, Oct. 17, from 5-8 p.m. “This is a perfect chance for those who can’t get to Shangri La during the day,” said Mason. “The community can discover all the gardens have to offer throughout

Shangri La Botanical Gardens has teamed with Free State Cellars during Sip and Stroll. Visitors are welcome to bring a blanket to sit on while they enjoy artisanal wines, craft sangrias and delicious charcuterie, which will be available for purchase from Free State Cellars.

Performing at the Sip and Stroll is Austin’s own Texas swing band, Pendulum Hearts.

The finale of this year’s Scarecrow Festival is the annual Autumn Fair –Saturday, Oct. 26, from 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. It’s a family-friendly event to celebrate the season and the final day to view the scarecrows. This is also the day that the winners of the scarecrow voting are announced. The day includes multiple opportunities for hands-on activities such as a scavenger hunt, tackle the Shangri La Gardens obstacle course, decorate pumpkins, enjoy a hayride, investigate some of the critters that call Shangri La Gardens home, cruise Adams Bayou on a pontoon boat ride and much more. Admission to the Autumn Fair is also free.

For more information, call (409) 670-9113 or view shangrilagardens.org.

LU to celebrate Homecoming on Oct. 12

Lamar University welcomes the entire community to celebrate Homecoming on Saturday, Oct. 12, with a massive array of events, which leads up to the football game when the Cardinals host Stephen F. Austin at Provost Umphrey Stadium at 3 p.m.

This year’s homecoming festivities include a bonfire and pep rally Thursday, Oct. 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Spindletop Boomtown Museum. Join the fun times with the LU band, cheerleaders and dance team. Admission is free.

Texas Rice Festival

For more than five decades, the weekend-long Texas Rice Festival at Stowell Park (307 Park Rd.) in nearby Winnie has been entertaining thousands of people with live music, activities for the entire family and fantastic food.

The 55th annual affair continues Thursday, Oct. 3-Saturday, Oct. 5.

One staple of the Texas Rice Festival is the “world famous rice balls.” A major fundraiser for the St. Louis Catholic Church in Winnie, hundreds of volunteers begin preparing rice balls a week before the festival even begins.

According to Monica Jones, one of the many volunteers of the church, what once started as selling as little as 50 or so rice balls years ago has grown into more than 16,000 each festival.

What is a rice ball? Well, it’s a ball of chili surrounded by cooked rice (which has been cooked with cheese and butter) then rolled in cracker meal and fried to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate festival food.

And to create 16,000 rice balls for all to enjoy, it literally takes a village. More than 200 volunteers help assemble the delicious ball.

Jones said five days before the festival, a dozen or more people cook the chili using 540 pounds of ground beef. Once the chili has cooled for 24 hours, volunteers then scoop 16,000 chili balls with a tablespoon for a spot in the freezer.

On Day 3, the process gets started as early as 4 a.m. as 135 massive pots of Douget’s rice (which is donated) is cooked, then dumped into a pan and mixed with cheese and butter. Volunteers then scoop about 1/3-cup rice to make rice patties. Once those are cooled and created into a cup-like ball, the chili

meatball is placed in the middle of the rice and covered completely. The rice ball takes a final roll in cracker meal, then back to the cooler where it stays before its fried at the festival, for $4 a ball.

Gates open at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3; 10 a.m. on both Friday, Oct. 4, and Saturday, Oct. 5. Parades, pageants, antique car show, carnival midway and

Get ready to dance the night away Friday, Oct. 11, inside the Neches FCU Arena at the Montagne Center, with a performance by popular hip-hop star Waka Flocka Flame, at 7 p.m. Tickets are free for current LU students, and two ticket options are available for the general public ($30-$40) that can be purchased online at lamar.edu.

Big Red’s Ride Classic & Antique Car Show jumpstarts game day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Spindletop Boomtown Museum (5550 Jimmy Simmons Blvd.). Take a step back in time to view an amazing assortment of beautifully restored cars from area car clubs. Admission is free as well as shuttle service. Admission is free.

There’s something for the entire family at Big Red’s Boomtown Tailgate. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., fans of all ages are welcome to enjoy live music, plus partake in lawn games and a performance by the LU Marching Band at Plummer Lawn at Virginia Street and MLK. Admission is free.

Located on campus at 1030 E Lavaca St., the Dishman Art Museum opens from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission to view art exhibits.

The day concludes with LU’s marching band, “The Showcase of Southeast Texas,” performing during the pregame show at 2:40 p.m. inside the stadium before the Cardinals kickoff with the Lumberjacks of SFA at 3 p.m. Football ticket prices start at $12.50.

For detailed information, visit lamar.edu/ homecoming.

loads of live music from the likes of Wayne Toups, Jake Worthington, Kings of Neon, Bri Bagwell, Stoney LaRue and Bag of Donuts will all perform this weekend.

For advance tickets and complete schedule of the 55th annual Texas Rice Festival in Winnie, view texasricefestival.com.

Rice balls

Jaime Taylor and Big Red

SNL – comedy central

I wonder who theaudienceforthis movie is supposed to be. Nostalgia-addled geezers who happened to tune in to NBC at 11:30 on the long-ago night of Oct. 11, 1975, for the debut of a new show called “Saturday Night” (soon to be “Saturday Night Live”)? Since those moldering oldsters are no longer big moviegoers, perhaps it is hoped that a fit of wistfulness might lure them away from their fancy home-theater setups and down to the multiplexes.

Or maybe it’s the youths of today –the ones still watching SNL in its 49th year – who are the target audience for

“Saturday Night.” If so, they may be puzzled by the big deal the movie makes about the show’s launch, and all the off-camera foofaraw that accompanied it (backstage pot antics don’t seem all that wild and crazy anymore).And since the movie focuses only on the first-ever broadcast, those younger fans, who can now pick and choose among endless YouTube clips for their SNL fixes, may be vaguely disappointed by not seeing some of their vintage faves alluded to in the film – people like Chris Farley, Phil Hartman or Eddie Murphy, maybe, or Tina Fey or Kristen Wiig. But they won’t.

What they will see is a simulation of the show’s founding cast — the one that did in fact change television and American culture in often-noted ways.

There’s Chevy Chase (Cory Michael Smith), Gilda Radner (Ella Hunt), John Belushi (Matt Wood), Dan Aykroyd (Dylan O’Brien), Laraine Newman (Emily Fairn), Jane Curtin (Kim Matula) and Garrett Morris (played by Lamorne Morris, no relation). Also pinballing

around are saturnine head writer Michael O’Donoghue (Tommy Dewey), inaugural host George Carlin (Matthew Rhys), Andy Kaufman and Jim Henson (both played by Nicholas Braun), and – struggling to stay atop all the story’s rather forced backstage frenzy – Canadian comedy-heads Lorne Michaels (Gabriel LaBelle) and his wife, the long-undervalued writer and sketch specialist Rosie Shuster (Rachel Sennott).

Focusing on one night in the long history of SNL – or actually just the 90 minutes of that night between the end of the first dress rehearsal and the show’s official airtime – the movie feels overstuffed, as if there had been too much material to deal with. (The picture isn’t based on any of the books about SNL, but on new interviews with surviving participants in its launch.) It would be understandable if director and cowriter Jason Reitman (“Juno,” “Tully,” “Ghostbusters: Afterlife”) became overwhelmed by the many elements available for his film and ran out of time to fully structure it. At least one of the characters (Willem Dafoe’s chilly NBC hatchet man) is annoyingly ambiguous, and another (Nicholas Podany’s Billy Crystal) could have been deep-sixed altogether with no loss to the picture. And while the great J.K. Simmons’impersonation of NBC comedy god Milton Berle is positioned in the film as if it were a triumph of character-capture, it’s hard to imagine a major actor who bears less resemblance than Simmons to the braying Berle – an old-school comic whose ilk would ultimately be elbowed aside by the SNL upstarts.

The movie is predictably undermined by the fact thatwe know where it’s going and how it will end. We feel no anxiety about Michaels possibly screwing up his first big TV opportunity and getting the chop from NBC, because the show is still on the air today. Nor can there be any concern about the headstrong Belushi not signing his NBC contract before showtime: You can still see him

with O’Donoghue doing “Wolverines,” the first-ever SNL sketch, on – where else? – YouTube.

The picture makes some no-big-deal adjustments to the facts of its story, but it also dispenses a bold bit of misinformation about NBC’s reigning talk-show king Johnny Carson, who is portrayed (by a voice on the phone) as being hostile to Michaels’ new show. In fact, it was Carson himself who pressured the network to create a new Saturday night program so that it would stop airing “Tonight Show” reruns on weekends, allowing Johnny, in pursuit of more time off, to rerun the shows on selected weeknights. The movie’s endorsement of this apparently bogus conflict is especially odd since it was Michaels’ company, Broadway Video, that produced the picture.

As undercooked as the movie may be, it has some lively performances. Matt Wood pulls off the difficult trick of capturing Belushi’s belligerent charisma without slipping into facile muggery. And Lamorne Morris manages to give Garrett Morris some of the respect he was never accorded as the show’s token Black person. (Garrett was also a Broadway veteran and a playwright, if not a particularly compelling comedy performer.) And it’s fun to see the nods to famous old show elements like the ridiculous Bees sketch that so infuriated Belushi, and O’Donoghue plunging imaginary skewers into the eyes of an imaginary Mr. Rogers. There are also attentive little touches like a passing glimpse of Howard Shore’s All-Nurse Band (an early gig for the future Hollywood soundtrack titan).

But there’s no ignoring the movie’s dominant problem: It is essentially a tightly bundled collection of anecdotes that never cohere as a plot. Even more disappointingly, it’s not all that funny, either.

Kurt Loder, a New York Times best-selling author and former host of MTV’s “The Week in Rock,” is the film critic for Reason Online.

Screener with Kurt Loder

BAYOUCAFÉ(VIDOR)

Thurs.,Oct.3:Crossroads

BRUNO’S

Wed.,Oct.9:HunterCourts

CAMPMARGARITAVILLE (CRYSTALBEACH)

Fri.,Oct.4:KyleGarrett

Sat.,Oct.5:TheKidIcarusProject

CHARLIE’S(WINNIE)

Sat.,Oct.5:AlWhite

DYLAN’S(PORTARTHUR)

Thurs.,Oct.3:JPPrimeaux

Fri.,Oct.4:DeadorAlive

Sat.,Oct.5:4WaySplit

Sun.,Oct.6:JerryMullin

GOLDENNUGGET

(LAKECHARLES,LA)

Thurs.,Oct.3:CoryLandry(Rush Lounge),HillbillyDeluxe(BlueMartini)

Fri.,Oct.4:JonKottBand(Rush),No Idea(Blue)

Sat.,Oct.5:GeorgeBirge(GrandEvent Center),JonKottBand(Rush),NoIdea (Blue)

Sun.,Oct.6:DaniLaCour(Rush)

Mon.,Oct.7:Bubba(Rush)

Tues.,Oct.8:GinoVallecillo

Wed.,Oct.9:CoryLandry(Rush)

HONKYTONKTEXAS(SILSBEE)

Thurs.,Oct.3:LarryTillery

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

Sat.,Oct.5:DustinSonnier

JEFFERSONCO.DANCECLUB (NEDERLAND)

Sun.,Oct.6:ShadowRoad

MACKENZIE’SPUB

Thurs.,Oct.3:BrittGodwin

Fri.,Oct.4:EndlessRoad

Sat.,Oct.5:BradBrinkley

MADISON’S

Fri.,Oct.4:Shinoak

Sun.,Oct.6:DavidJustin

PINETREELODGE(LABELLE)

Fri.,Oct.4:JaceNunnelly

Sat.,Oct.5:QuanaEasley

Sun.,Oct.6:LouisianaLandfall

RANCHOGRANDE(PORTARTHUR)

Fri.,Oct.4:ChloeOverstreet

RAYBURNCOUNTRY(BROOKELAND)

Fri.,Oct.4:ToddHoward

Sat.,Oct.5:Static

RIKENJAK’S(VIDOR)

Sat.,Oct.5:BrianWinfield

TEXASRICEFESTIVAL(WINNIE)

Thurs.,Oct.3:JakeWorthington

Fri.,Oct.4:KingsofNeon

Sat.,Oct.5:BagofDonuts,Stoney LaRue

The Texas Rice Festival is in full swing with a massive array of music including Cajun Harmony, Jarrod Birmingham and Jake Worthington on Thursday; JT Reserve, Kin Faux and Kings of Neon on Friday; and Wayne Toups (4:30 p.m.), Bri Bagwell (6:30 p.m.), Stoney LaRue (8:30 p.m.) and Bag of Donuts (10:30 p.m.) on Saturday. From New Orleans, Louisiana, Bag of Donuts has been entertaining crowds for more than three decades with their kabuki makeup, extravagant costumes and “Superpop” tunes. Their flamboyant performances are a combination of ultimate showmanship, call and response audience participation, visual ingenuity, professional musicianship, and pure entertainment. Simply put, “It’s like a Mardi Gras party all concert long.”

Bag of Donuts

SOULJA BOY

Rapper Soulja Boy, born DeAndre Cortez Way, hit the music scene in 2007 with his debut song, “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” a song that spent several weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard charts and was dubbed “the biggest dance fad since the Marcarena.”

The video alone amassed nearly 600 million views on YouTube and still can be frequently heard today. Soulja Boy followed the hit with more popular tracks like “Pretty Boy Swag,” “Kiss Me Thru the Phone” and “Turn My Swag On.” He has received a Grammy Award nomination as well as four Teen Choice Award noms. The rapper also created a popular men’s cologne – “S-Boy for Him.”

THEGRILLONCALDER

Thurs.,Oct.3:MellonJelly

Fri.,Oct.4:SpencerMarks&James Fasulo

Sat.,Oct.5:ToddHoward

THELOGONCAFÉ

Fri.,Oct.4:TheB-Sides

Sat.,Oct.5:TheRuxpins,HotGrits

THEPOMPANO(PORTNECHES)

Tues.,Oct.8:HunterCourts

THEROXY

Sat.,Oct.5:SouljaBoy

THETREE(LUMBERTON)

Tues.,Oct.8:EthanOsborne

THEVENUEATBELLEOAKS

Thurs.,Oct.3:MikeRyan

THEWHEELHOUSE(PORTNECHES)

Fri.,Oct.4:AustinStepchildren

Sat.,Oct.5:DoubleD

Sun.,Oct.6:DoubleD

THIRSTY’S

Fri.,Oct.4:TheAlleyKats

Sat.,Oct.5:StephenPerricone

TIAJUANITA’S(ORANGE)

Thurs.,Oct.3:WayneDylan

Fri.,Oct.4:ScottMcGill

HOUSTON

BAYOU MUSIC CENTER

Thurs., Oct. 3: Marcus King Fri., Oct. 4: Clutch & Rival Sons

HOUSE OF BLUES

Thurs., Oct. 3: Lorna Shore Sat., Oct. 5: Architects Sun., Oct. 6: Jinjer

713 MUSIC HALL

Thurs., Oct. 3: Still Woozy Sun., Oct. 6: Porter Robinson Mon., Oct. 7: A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Tues., Oct. 8: Kehlani

STEREO LIVE (EDM/DJ) Fri., Oct. 4: Cash Cash

THE HEIGHTS THEATRE Fri., Oct. 4: Robert DeLong Sat., Oct. 5: Gary P. Nunn

THE IMPROV (COMEDY)

Fri., Oct. 4: Martin Amini

Sat., Oct. 5: Martin Amini Sun., Oct. 6: Martin Amini

WHITE OAK MUSIC HALL

Sat., Oct. 5: Seether

Mon., Oct. 7: Jungle Sat., Oct. 5, 10:30 p.m. • Stowell Park, Winnie • $15

Sat.,Oct.5:ChloeOverstreet

Oct. 5, 8 p.m. • The Roxy, Beaumont • $29+

The Foundation of Southeast Texas held its third annual fundraiser recently, which financially supports other nonprofits in Hardin, Jefferson and Orange counties. Guests enjoyed delicious bites and libations as they played conversation catch-up until the main attraction – Straight Tequila Night band – took the stage for a lively and entertaining evening. In the mix were Andrea Deaton, Donna Homann, Terry Wilman, John Wilman, Kandy Daniel, Amy Darchuk, Shona Honey, Mary Smith, Bobby Smith, Jason Byrd, Tina Bradley, Derrick Rivers, Lindsay and Justin Sanderson, Jess Mudd, Michelle Keuster, James Bice, Tara and Justin Audilet, Lisa and Bryan Mathews, Mandy and Brian Mazzola, Rene and Jonathan McCabe, Jamie and George Pope, Terri Hawthorne, Taryn Beinvenu, Kelli and PaulTrevino,Amy and Patrick Maloney, Monica and Jimmy Broussard, Nicole and Jeremy Saba, Christy and Reed Lowrance, Christi and RockyLowdermilk,MollyMoore, Wyatt Snider, Kirksey and Stephen Reynolds, Linsi Walker, Sarah and DarrellFisher,MarisMehaffy,Haylee Faggard, Debbie Bishop, Paige Windham, Sunni and Jared Bishop, Cory

Crenshaw,Natalie and HunterWilson, Susanne Lewis, Jean Peyton, Kathryn and Jason Fuller, Suzanne and Don Maloney, Aimee and Jerry Richards, Amanda and Anthony Love, Gina and Woody Barton, Pam and Eli Berry, Leslie and Jimmy Harrison, Amanda and TJ Lingle, Connie Browning, Robert Wharton, Regina and Blaine Callier, Nicole and Austin Williams, Kristin and Chris Davis, Abby and Alan Frazier, Julie Aimee, Kristin and Brandon Fisher, Robert Kocot, Stephanie and Jacob Taylor, Michael Perez, Haley and Cody Cupit, Pat and Craig Sherlock, MaryAnn and Robert Reid, Ashley and Brandon Willis, Melissa and Martin Edwards, Katherine and Mike Williams, Mellie and Sam Bevilacqua, Caroline Heinz, Pam Wisner, Mandy and Brady Griffin, Brent Griffin, David Thieme, Emily and JD Beckman, Tobey and Bob Cleek, Todd Maines, Carrie and Justin Murphy, Kendra Broussard, Andrew Graham, Pride and Richard Parr, Adam Duff, Michaela Dozier, Amanda and Keith Robichau, Jesse Granger, Chad Granger, Shelby Kelly, Kayla White, Sharon and Craig Strickland, Anthony Anniboli, Rachel and David Jew,

Carli and Darrian Graves, Ben Mazzola, Simona Cast, Brooke and Mike Morrow, Marianne and Justin Youngblood, Lauren and Josh Shenkir, Jessica and Nathan Camp, Jennifer and Kirk Smith, Tonya and GAWimberly, Jan and Dan Parker, Madison Lytle, Jillian and Ryan Citrano, Katie and Clarke Baker, Jessie and Cody Goodman,Maite and BenBroussard,Christina and JoshLokey,Paige and Patrick Wells, Scott Blanchard, Missy and Michael Woodson, Kate Thorne, Beth Broussard and too many more to mention. Great turn out for a super cause! Darling Debs… the 2024 Debutantes and their mothers were honored last Sunday at the annual Debutante Tea hosted by the Symphony League of Beaumont.The Downtown Event Centre was the perfect setting for this gorgeous event. Tea Chair Tiffany Neale did an outstanding job transforming the venue into a lovely Chinoiserie Garden themed area. She was assisted by her committee of Lauren Turner, Sarah Frasher and Kim Jaynes. Debutante Co-Chairs Ronda Harkey and Christina Crawford welcomed the honorees and aided them in practicing for their stage presentation. Former SLB Third Vice President Shelley Duke orchestrated the presentation and assisted the Debs and mothers on how to walk across the stage. Symphony League President Rachel Grove

then introduced Maestro Chelsea Tipton II who discussed the Symphony of Southeast Texas. Guests were thrilled to see the Debs and their mothers take the stage as their daughters bowed to the audience. A lovely afternoon and wonderful to see the Debutantes in their lovely ball gowns. Their next exciting event is the Ranch Party on Sunday, Oct. 13, at Amelia Farms.

Don’t forget… First Thursday this Thursday evening, Oct. 3 at the Mildred! Meet for a yummy dinner at Katharine & Co.

News of I do’s… Dane Steinhagen proposed, and Savannah Elkins said “yes!” Congrats!

Candles and cakes… belated best to Betty Wells, Roy Philp Jr. and Whitney Stiles. B-day wishes to Charlotte Levine, Lauren Burleson, Collier Christian Thompson, Christy Persia, Ronald Baumer, Jessica Everett, Marlys Williams, Melanie Heartfield, Parker Langley, Terry Quinn, Caleb Bluiett, Minnie Lindsey, Olive Ann McLaughlin, Peggy Starnes, Nicole Kavouspour, Kristen Fuller, Clark Winslow, Larry Busceme, JaneAngel, Staci Harken, Delores Ellis, Elaine Smith, Evee Stovall, John Wilson, Adonis Bateaste, Melanie Dishman, Joseph Fertitta and LouAnn Peacock

Until the next RSVP!

OUT & ABOUT

Mark Kubala and Shelley TortoricePaige Windham and Newton Hopkins

WHAT: Art Museum of Southeast Texas Gala WHERE:

Art Museum of Southeast Texas

Photos by Brandon Gouthier

OUT & ABOUT

Art Museum of Southeast Texas Gala • Continued from page 7B

Sherrie and Jeff Branick

Amy and Albert Faggard

Jane and Dan Parker

Mike and Karen Fuljenz

OUT & ABOUT

Art Museum of Southeast Texas Gala • Continued from page 8B

Zack Falgout, Tina Novelli and Lauren Falgout

Vivian and Coffy Pieternelle

OUT & ABOUT

Art Museum of Southeast Texas Gala • Continued from page 9B

Mike Cacioppo, Lynne Lokensgard and Jeff McManus

Scott and Lee Mann

Terry and Lee Ann Garth

OUT & ABOUT

Art Museum of Southeast Texas Gala • Continued from page 10B

Odile and Marco Silva

Glen and Teri Morgan

Sharon and John Bissell

OUT & ABOUT

Museum of Southeast Texas Gala • Continued from page 11B

Nicole and Mike Albanese

Ken and Jan Fulbright Reed

Seth and Marcia Crone

Jim and Kathe’ Hendricks, Rachel Grove

Cindy and Michael Lindsay

Bill and Sheri Callahan

OUT & ABOUT

Art Museum of Southeast Texas Gala • Continued from page 13B

Charlotte Mains, Linda Gail Blackwell, Susan Grantham and Laura Hayes

Ashton Ohmstede and Kit Ohmstede

Catherine Holtzclaw and Jo Vance

Bob and Karen Wortham

OUT & ABOUT

Art Museum of Southeast Texas Gala • Continued from page 14B

Brian and Rose Blount

Lynn Castle and Andy Gardner

Dishing it out

By Chad Cooper Entertainment Editor

It was the Greek philosopher Plutarch who is credited with posing the age-old question, “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” Though many still argue over it today, one answer we know for sure –Twisted Egg Shack knows their eggs.

Restauranter Bret Baumgartner has a passion for serving up delicious breakfast food with quality customer service. Just look at the track record with his other ventures in Beaumont and Port Arthur – The Toasted Yolk.

Located at 4318 Dowlen Rd. in Beaumont, Twisted Egg Shack is for the real egg lovers. Open 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, the new restaurant has a great variety on their menu and we first recommend the Shack Tots – tater tots that are stuffed with potato, cheese, sour cream and chives then deep to a golden perfection. You can dip them in queso. Oh my.

There are breakfast style tacos such as the Good

Morning, Chicken Shack and Twisted Tender and the hand-held breakfast “sandwiches” we all know and love including The Daisy – a made from scratch sandwich with fresh sliced ham, scrambled egg, Swiss cheese, sliced tomato and their in-house creamy hollandaise sauce.

The Twisted Chicken handheld is also legit. Just imagine a juicy chicken tender with a scrambled egg, cheddar

cheese and a drizzle of hot honey all on a bagel. It’s real. And it’s tremendous.

If you want to “build your own omelette,” you can do that or try one of several brunch bowls, avocado toast, Belgian waffle as well as true sandwiches like the Baja-Club, Classic Club or Chicken Salad sandwich.

To make it even more magnificent, TwistedEggShackalsohasthefreshest squeezed orange juice in the city. Bar none. For those into adult beverages, try the Shack’s mimosas. For more information and even order online, view twistedeggshack. com.

Twisted Chicken

Great obscure wines

In the coming two decades, American wine lovers surely will face dozens of interesting wines made from grape varieties they’ve never heard of before, mainly as a result of climate change.

This is not a surprise to people who today are harvesting cabernet, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. These people know climate change is forcing them to rethink which grapes will make the best wines in their regions.

Increasing temperatures globally are altering many of the wines we made decades ago. And adventurous wine lovers are slowly seeing that the most interesting wines may be from grapes with which they are unfamiliar.

This subject came to mind last week when I tasted a sensational red wine made from a grape variety I had never heard of and which came from an area of the world that I never thought could make world-class wine.

The grape is called Areni, the brand is Khachen, and the country it came from is Armenia!

Armenia may sound like a remote location for fine wine. It is. Located in a mountainous enclave in westernAsia, Armenia was for decades under the Soviet sphere of influence but gained its independence just over 30 years ago.

It is home to one of the planet’s oldest civilizations and may be where wine was born. Archaeolo gists have unearthed a thriving wine culture dating back 4000 B.C.! It is located in what is called the Areni-1 cave, and artifacts found there tell a fascinating tale of a nascent culture.

The Areni I tasted was a medium-weight red wine. It had a fascinating aroma of violets and black pepper and was impeccable. It is not, alas, available in the United States yet. Los Angeles resident Alek Harounian owns Khachen and is seeking someone to import the wine.

He told me he is also planning on making a rose and a white wine from the obscure Voskehat grape. His project, which started in 2021, is now 18 acres of grapes, 70% of them Areni, the main grape in Armenia.

This is only one of the amazing stories about recent developments in wine alternatives that may be essential as global climate change wreaks havoc on more tradi

tional varieties.

For example, in Bordeaux, several districts are experimenting with at least four different grape varieties – arinarnoa, touriga nacional (a Portuguese variety), castets and marselan.

Two other grape varieties have been approved for experimentation in Bordeaux. And other ancient Bordeaux varieties are also coming back from obscurity, like bouchales, tarney, mancin, and Saint-Macaire.

Several other red grape varieties that once were considered in decline have come back from obscurity. Included are pinot meunier, carignane, St. Laurent and Norton (which is best known in Virginia and in Missouri).

There are also a few new dry white wines being produced around the United States from chenin blanc, colombard, petit manseng, gruner veltliner, picpoul, vermentino, arneis, tocai friulano, sylvaner, fiano, pecorino and Ribolla Gialla.

The above list numbers 12 white wines, and this does not include chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and several others that are popular in California today.

This article is not intended to confuse. It is intended to alert readers to the fact that excellent wine today is being produced around the world from regions and grapes that almost no one has ever heard of.

My suggestion is that wine lovers become more adventuresome. Avoid sameness, embrace exploration.

Wine of the Week:

2023 Bonny Doon Vin Gris (van gree) de Cigare, Central Coast ($16) – Bonny Doon Vineyard’s dry rose wine every year is this stellar example that always exhibits strawberry, peach, guava and rhubarb. Here the blend starts with grenache, and that adds a note of pomegranate. Although it is dry, the aftertaste leaves you with a succulence that invites another sip. Terrific chilled for the last hot months of summer.

com. He is also co-host of “California Wine Country” with Steve Jaxon on KSRO Radio, 1350 AM.

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 bath and walk in closet for the perfect escape at the end of a long day. Outside, the estate sized lot provides endless possibilities for outdoor enjoyment, whether you envision creating a stunning garden oasis, adding a pool and spa, or designing an outdoor entertainment area. Don't miss this incredible opportunity!

Wine Talk with Dan Berger

Dan Berger lives in Sonoma County, California, where he publishes “Vintage Experiences,” a weekly wine newsletter. Write to him at winenut@gmail.

Fun with flowers

How could you not love a flower? Just look at these beauties. I’m trying to learn to just enjoy them, have fun with them. Since Masterpiece Theatre began, I’ve been a Public Broadcasting fan. It started more years ago than I care to remember, in 1972 with Alistair Cooke and his classy English accent.HeintroducedustotheFirst Churchills. Addiction. Many years later we enjoyed “Downton Abbey” and so many other well-acted programs through the years. My most recent “addiction” is the floral show hosted by J. Schwanke, a fourth-generation florist. His goal in “Life in Bloom” is to help us all have fun with flowers.

I recently read an article from The Field Trip Academy, which gavemesomecreativewaystosimply enjoy the flowers and outdoor spaces around us.

Some playful ideas to help us enjoy the flowers around us aren’t just for children. Stop and smell when you are outside. Try to find five different flowers that have a scent. Different flowers have their

own special scents. You can decide if their scent is strong. Is it spicy? Fruity? Musty? You can even pick a favorite. If it can grow in our part of the world, go buy more and plant them. Plant them near where you sit in the morning or have tea later in the day. Not an artist? That doesn’t matter one bit. Take a trip to one of our local stores and buy watercolors, paper to paint on and a paintbrush. It’s just fun to round up a group of flowers or even a single bloom and try something new, painting. Feeling

likeMonethimself?Getyournewsupplies and a container of water and some paper towels and find yourself a seat in the grass to paint.

A friend of mine has the best luck with her cameras. It doesn’t matter if she uses the iPhone or her “real” camera. She always seems to catch a flying bee just as it lands on a beautiful bloom. She has one photo of a butterfly landing on her hand. Wouldn’t it be a playful way to spend an hour or two roaming the yard or neighborhood at the ready to catch that perfect photo?You may catch a ladybug or roll bug on

some of your blooms.

You’re never too old to find just that certain spot in a grassy area or chaise lounge. Lie back and look up. There is nothing like laying down under a beautiful tree and watching its leaves move in the breeze.Justthinkofaspringbloomingtree with a few blooms blowing down around you. Yes, the things dreams are made of. Many years ago, I picked flower blooms while traveling. I pressed each bloom between glass and a cloth backing in an inexpensive photo frame. Although the blooms have faded over 30 or so years, they still tell a story of my adventure that summer. The shapes are still there, and the memories are too. Yes, pick some blooms. Press them flat and put them into a frame. It’s just one more way to have fun with flowers.

I bet you’ve taken trips to visit family members or to see the Grand Canyon or to attend a special event. It would be a wonderful idea to plan a trip with the main purpose of going to a flower festival. We have always heard about the Cherry Blossom Festival and the Philadelphia Flower Show. But there are thousands of flower festivals and flower contests close to home and across the world. You could wear the colors of your favorite flower, put on a fancy hat and just enjoy the show.

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

Your Garden with Joette Reger

TPWD completes bass tracking study

One of the first largemouth bass I ever caught weighed about five pounds and she hit a Black Hawk spinnerbait at night. Needless to say, I was forever hooked on bass fishing after that deal, and to this day I can’t wait to get out on the lake and cast lures for bass.

Recently biologists from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department completed a study that tracked the movement and behaviors of largemouth bass atToledo Bend and at Lake Fork. The goal of the multiyear study, which was launched in 2020, was to learn more about fish behavior and help anglers be more effective when they target largemouth bass.

The study at Toledo Bend and Fork focused on seasonal habitat use, the movement and home range of largemouth bass andhowitcorrelatedwithanglingactivity. It also explored the effects of boat motor noiseandanglingactivityonfishbehavior.

In the recent TPWD study biologists monitored the movement patterns of individual largemouth bass ranging from 16 to 24 inches in length. Biologists implanted radio transmitters into 43 fish at Toledo Bend and 38 fish at Lake Fork to track them over a two-year period.

“Some of the biggest surprises were the small home ranges that these fish actually had and how little of an area they occupied throughout the course of a year,” said Jake Norman, Inland Fisheries Division Tyler District Supervisor. “I think most anglers and even biologists, me included, expected to see more seasonal movement especially of individual fish. Overall, we just didn’t see that happen on a larger scale. For example, on Lake Fork, the average total home range these fish occupied was 60 acres or less over the course of the entire study, and the average core use area was just over 10 acres.”

Norman pointed out that the bulk of these fish have home areas and don’t migrate throughout the lake. The time of year didn’t seem to have a big effect on movement and neither did the weather or lake levels.

“There wasn’t a large movement of fish back and forth from the bank to offshore structure,” said Norman. “It highlights that some fish just like to stay in shallow areas and some just like to be more offshore. Fish movement appeared to be the same throughout all four seasons and stable the whole year without a lot of seasonal movement.”

In terms of structure and habitat, the study found that, in general, largemouth bass exhibited habitat preferences.

“Abig ‘take home’of this study is how important it is to be as stealthy as possible

when fishing for largemouth bass,” added Norman. “When anglers are sight-fishing and see a fish on a bed, they should do everything they can to make a cast to the fish before it knows they are there. Truthfully, that should be the angler’s mindset throughoutalltheseasonsnomatterifthey arefishinginafootofwateror30-plusfeet of water. Doing everything you can to be as stealthy as possible will increase your chances of catching the fish you are targeting.”

Overall, when it comes to locations, the traditional target spots proved to be the best when angling for largemouth bass.

“The fish in these studies still selected

A recent TPWD study on bass revealed some interesting findings about boat noise and the subsequent reaction by fish when hearing a motor. Biologists indicated that 59% of all the fish reacted to boat noise in some capacity.

more of what I call ‘high percentage spots’ like drops, points creeks and other habitat structure,” said Norman. “The places where anglers typically look for to target bass are the areas the fish are still utilizing the most. The study also shows that they are really educated and are very wary when noting an anglers’ presence, which could correlate to the reported lower catch rates.”

The study indicated that fish could also be found in featureless flats – areas that typically had less pressure from anglers. However, in those areas they were more spread out and less concentrated.

Outdoors with Robert Sloan

Robert Sloan for The Examiner

BREAKOUT PERFORMANCE

BY JEREMY NEWTON AND TRACY GRAY / EDITED BY JOEL FAGLIANO

ACROSS

1 One getting into some hot water?

7 Home monitors

11 Data sought in phishing attempts, in brief

15 Thus far

21 Cry from a treehouse

22 Doesn’t rule out, as a possibility

24 Wrinkle-free, say

25 Turned on an axis

26 Real no-brainer?

27 Colorful ingredients in some cookie recipes

28 Trash

29 Reef lurker

31 Ways off

32 Part of H.M.S.

34 Word with body or blood

35 Texter’s alternative to an eye-roll emoji

36 Olympians on stunt bikes, informally

38 Genre for Fall Out Boy

41 U.S. currency: Abbr.

42 Negative influence on others, metaphorically

44 Expressed

47 To sweeten the deal

49 Declines to

50 Houdini’s signature feat ... or a hint to the circled squares in this puzzle

53 Basis for a feud

54 Rudder found in nature

57 ‘‘Bad luck, I guess. ... It was my turn, that’s all. I was in the path of the ____’’ (quote from 18-Down)

58 Became stuck

61 ‘‘This is the worst!’’

62 Receptacle for soaking before a pedicure

64 Brainy bunch

66 Electronica pioneer Brian

67 Bulgarian or Bosnian

69 Rap group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

70 The White House grounds have 18 of them

72 Some online pings, in brief

73 ‘‘Yo!’’ on the downlow

74 Lightning-fast hedgehog of video games

76 What ‘‘washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life,’’ per Picasso

78 Lane for carpoolers

79 Six-foot-tall Aussie sprinter

80 Grows dimmer

81 ‘‘Are you ____ drive?’’

86 ‘‘Breaking Bad’’ channel

88 Fastener that’s one letter ahead of ‘‘U-bolt’’ in the dictionary

89 Org. with the Artemis program

90 Office-building unit: Abbr.

91 What a police escort may offer

95 Classic cover-ups for spies

100 Fumble or bumble

101 Card game with a Power Grab edition

102 ‘‘Good joke!’’

103 Red side, in brief

104 Indecency

108 Female in the forest

111 ‘‘Like that matters to me!’’

114 Stage a jailbreak à la 18-Down

115 Annual May race, familiarly

116 Held together in a makeshift way

117 Wraps

118 Sizable challenge for a mover

119 Make a break for it

120 Yearn (for)

121 Swain

122 Parts of N.F.L. highlight reels, for short

123 This really blows!

DOWN

1 Exceeds 21, in blackjack

2 Poise under pressure

3 With 6-Down, prison drama released on Sept. 23, 1994

4 Hacks with an ax

5 Ahead of, in poetry

6 See 3-Down

7 Instrument strummed in the Train song ‘‘Hey, Soul Sister’’

8 Popular gala venue, with ‘‘the’’

9 Sneaky ____ (sly dogs)

10 Glasses, informally

11 Like cashmere

12 Imagine, casually

13 Prefix with -lithic

14 16-time gig for Steve Martin

15 Portrayer of 18-Down

16 ‘‘Cup ____ cone?’’

17 Terse admonishment

18 Lead role in 3-Down/6-Down

19 They’re measured in beats per minute

20 Famed Ford flop

23 Honorific from Sanskrit

30 Date on a debit card: Abbr.

33 Pollution-regulating org.

36 Resort town in Alberta’s Rockies

37 Kicks back

39 ‘‘The Heart of Georgia’’

44 Fall accessory?

45 Bygone channel that launched with the two-hour pilot of ‘‘Star Trek: Voyager’’

46 4x100 relay, for one

48 Org. with Student Success Grants

51 ____ América (quadrennial soccer championship)

52 Juice drinks

54 To-do

58 Overplay

59 Erase from one’s memory, in slang

60 Target audience for ‘‘Peppa Pig’’

63 Decks with cards numbered I through XXI

65 Apelike

68 Curriculum ____

71 Take inventory?

73 Prefix with -lithic

75 Make sense

77 Ingredient in a niçoise salad

83 Harbor helper

84 It might get booted

87 Main blvd. through N.Y.C.’s Chinatown

90 Treated unfairly, informally

91 The swans in ‘‘The Twelve Days of Christmas,’’ e.g.

92 In the area

93 Some makeshift fans

94 ‘‘Already?!’’

98 Unwrapped with gusto

99 Accelerated

105 Shot makers, for short

106 Top of a titmouse

107 H on a frat house

108 Shoveled stuff

109 Unwelcome obligation

110 Irish novelist O’Brien

111 Coding pioneer Lovelace

Solutions on page 23B

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

82 Certain online video snippet

85 Downwind, to seafarers

Dear Annie:

I really don’t like having my picture taken because I don’t feel photogenic. I’ve asked my husband multiple times not to post any photos of me on his social media without my permission. However, every now and then, he disregards my feelings and posts them anyway. Each time, I remind him of how I feel and ask him to respect my wishes. Recently, he did it again, but this time, when I brought it up, he became furious. He shouted at me, saying I was accusing him of being a bad person. ShouldItrytooverlookmydiscomfort and allow him to post, even though it bothers me deeply?

– Without Permission

Dear Without Permission:

Theanswertoyourquestionissimple: No, you should not overlook your discomfort. You’ve made it clear that you don’t want your picture posted, and when your husband disregarded that, he was being disrespectful. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect

124 Airport monitor, for short

125 Razz

126 Pennzoil competitor

40 ____ Corner, section of Westminster Abbey

43 ‘‘What was I thinking!?’’

for each other’s needs and boundaries.

His shouting and defensiveness seem like attempts to shift the blame onto you, which isn’t fair.

This kind of behavior often signals that someone knows they’ve done something wrong but doesn’t want to admit it. Keep standing up for yourself. If he raises his voice again, calmly walk away and make it clear that you will not tolerate being spoken to that way.

And please, if you ever feel unsafe or threatened, don’t hesitate to seek help. TheNationalDomesticViolenceHotline can provide support and resources at thehotline.org.

Dear Annie:

I am writing in response to your advice to “Grieving Widow,” who is struggling after the loss of her husband. I agree that a grief support group can be incredibly helpful, but I noticed you didn’t mention how she could go about finding one.

She mentioned that her husband was receiving hospice care before he passed away. She should consider reaching out to the hospice that provided those services and ask to speak with their bereavement department. They often offer both individual and group bereavement support and can guide her

55 Yeti’s commercial rival

56 ‘‘Ain’t gonna happen!’’

79 Conditional coding word

80 ‘‘Hey, I’m walkin’ here!’’

96 Ostentatiously stylish

97 Early Christian meals of love and fellowship

to the resources she needs during this difficult time.

– Retired Hospice RN

Dear Annie:

I am writing to you basically needing advice on a matter of snobbery and arrogance. This in regard to one of my relatives. They say money changes people, and in this case, I think it has.

I’m now past 70 years of age. I have a male first cousin near my age. We grew up in the same Midwestern town only a few miles apart. Let’s call him “Frank.”

After high school, Frank left the Midwest and moved to California seeking bigger dreams. Having no skills, he worked part-time jobs and eventually found substantial employment. Then with a stroke of luck, he met and married a woman who had inherited a sum of wealth from her family. Together, they began to enjoy a comfortable life.

Frank had always been a genuine person, but after he moved into a higher income bracket, his personality changed from genuine to snobbish. He returned to the Midwest one time to visit and, in front of a group of relatives, bragged of being a “somebody” and referred to me as a nobody. I left the gathering determined not to speak to him again.

At our age, many of our relatives –uncles, aunts, cousins – have passed

112 Be bad, like really bad

113 Kin of a zin

away. Five years have passed, and Frank called me. I believe, now realizing the familyissmallerandwantingfriendship, that he somehow wants to become friends again. I explained to him that he owed me an apology. He denied this. He wants to sweep the entire incident under the rug as if it never happened. I would not mind rekindling the friendship, but I don’t know how to handle this.

– “Pete” in the Midwest

Dear Pete:

It makes sense why you’re disheartened by Frank’s attitude shift over the years, but it sounds like he misses you and finally wants to bury the hatchet. You need to decide which is more important – harboring resentment and judgment over a comment he made many years ago or putting the past aside and giving him a second chance. Reconciliationdoesn’thappenovernight, so give yourself, and Frank, grace and time if you choose to reconnect. Better late than never.

Dear Annie:

My new boyfriend told me he’s polyamorous, and I am not. He often tells me he wants me plus another woman in order to satisfy his sexual needs.Idolovehim,butthisissomething I’ve never encountered. I’m willing to try different things, but I’m not sure if

Jeremy Newton, of Austin, Texas, works as an engineering manager for a mobile-game company. Tracy Gray, of Hunt Valley, Md., recently retired from the lawn and landscaping business. They found that coming up with suitable answers to complete the interlocking shaded squares was the most satisfying part of making this puzzle, as well as the most difficult and time-consuming.

this is something I’m mentally ready to do. I want to stay with him, but I’m not sure if I can handle the whole situation.

– Lost and Confused

Dear Lost:

Compromise in a romantic relationship is one thing, but this falls firmly into deal-breaker

territory. Have an open, honest conversation with your boyfriend about your boundaries and the fact that you may never be ready or able to give him something polyamorous – which is 100% OK. If you can’t land on something that works for you both, it’s probably time to part ways.You both deserve to be in relationships that make you feel supported, seen and safe.

WEIRD

News That Sounds Like a Joke

The Hong Kong Education Bureau has produced a 70-page sex education manual for kids between 12 and 14 years old, The New York Times reported on Aug. 26. The booklet advises kids to avoid premarital sex and other “intimate behaviors” by participating in exercise and other pastimes,suchasbadminton,that“drawattention away from undesirableactivities.”The Education Bureau is undeterred by criticism and ridicule; it said the advice will help kids “cope with the various physiological and psychological consequences of premarital sex.” Meanwhile, teenagers are incorporating it into their slang, with phrases such as “friends with badminton.”

News You Can Use

Residents of Oxford, Massachusetts, are buzzing over a voluntary curfew officials put in place in late August, CNN reported. The restriction on outdoor activities after 6 p.m. through the end of September (and 5 p.m. in October until the first frost) is meant to keep citizens safe from mosquitoes that may be carrying eastern equine encephalitis, or EEE, a deadly infection, but about 200 people showed up at a town meeting to protest it. Officials say the curfew makes people more aware of the threat and gets them off the streets while communities are spraying chemicals to combat the mosquitoes. “It’s an unpopular recommendation, but we feel that it’s a really important part of a layered prevention strategy,” said Dr. Catherine Brown, the Massachusetts state epidemiologist. One commenter on social media complained: “Government overreach in the name of safety has upended the lives of our kids enough.” Others called for a dusk-to-dawn curfew, which would mean getting inside by about 8 p.m.

Least Competent Criminal

Deario Wilkerson, 20, literally fell into law enforcement’s lap on Aug. 26 after he tried to hide out in the attic of a home in Memphis, NBC News reported. Wilkerson was wanted for firstdegree murder in a case from April, in which Troy Cunningham was shot and killed in downtown Memphis. After the U.S. Marshals Service surrounded the home where Wilkerson was hiding, the fugitive fell through the ceiling into the kitchen of the home, landing uninjured.

Look, Don’t Touch

Picture it: a curious young boy at a museum. An ancient artifact unprotected by glass. Bet you can’t guess what happened next. On Aug. 23, reports CNN, a 4-year-old boy visited the Hecht

Museum in Haifa, Israel, with his parents. According to the child’s father, the boy noticed a large ceramic container and “pulled the jar slightly,” wanting to see what was inside –accidentally smashing the 3,500-year-old relic in the process. Museum officials were unfazed: “We are appealing to parents: Don’t be afraid. Things like this happen,” said museum head Inbal Rivin. “We will fix (the jar) and put it back.” The Hecht Museum displays some items withoutprotectivecases,anodtofounderReuben Hecht’sbeliefinallowingthepublictoexperience archaeological finds with as few barriers as possible. The jar dates to between 2200 B.C. and 1500 B.C. and was likely used for storing and transporting liquid goods such as wine or oil. Finding an intact vessel was something of a rarity, and restoration efforts are already underway.

Book Lover Booked

A 71-year-old flat owner in Rome woke one night to find a burglar in his residence ... reading a book about the Iliad. The BBC reported on Aug. 24 that the would-be burglar claims he broke into the building to visit someone else and simply found himself in the wrong unit. Spotting Giovanni Nucci’s book “The Gods at Six O’Clock,” a retelling of The Iliad from a divine perspective, the 38-year-old settled in for story time.Whenthehomeownerawokeandconfronted him, the thief attempted to get away via the balcony but was soon arrested. News of the bookworm burglar made its way to the author, who said he’d like to give the criminal a copy: “... he’ll have been arrested halfway through reading it. I’d like him to be able to finish it.” Nucci added that his favorite deity is Hermes, the god of thieves – and of literature.

Better Late Than Never

The U.K.-based Royal Mail service delivered a postcard to the Swansea Building Society in Wales – a mere 121 years after it was posted. The BBC reported on Aug. 21 that the Christmasthemed postcard was addressed to “Miss Lydia Davies” and signed by “Ewart.” Among other lines, Ewart apologizes for not picking up a “pair” of an unknown item: “I am so sorry, but I hope you are enjoying yourself at home.” The postcard made waves online after Henry Darby, the Swansea Building Society’s marketing and communications officer, found it when sorting through the post. Unable to find any information about Lydia, he took to social media for help. West Glamorgan Archives confirmed that a John Davies once lived at the address in question with his wife, Maria, and six children – including Lydia, who would have been 16 when the postcard was sent.

Unclear on the Concept

AgroundhogmadeheadlinesInHollidaysburg, Pennylvania, about an hour from Punxsutawney

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

– but not for predicting the weather. Fun-seekers playing the claw machine at a local arcade realized that one of the “stuffed animals” was blinking back at them, reported the Associated Press on Aug. 14. Manager Lynn Castle of The Meadows frozen custard and mini golf isn’t sure how the critter got in, but said it almost took an army to release the rodent. Employees contacted the machine’s owners, who passed the buck to the police department, who called in the PennsylvaniaGameCommission.Gamewardens were able to open the machine and set the rodent, dubbed Colonel Custard, free in a nearby field. Castle and The Meadows wasted no time capitalizing on the incident, making T-shirts that said, “Respect the Groundhog” and naming a frozen treat flavor after their furry visitor. “It’s a good story that ended well,” Castle said. “He got set free. No one got bit.”

U R in Trouble

Some people yell, throw things or shut down when they get mad. Not Dr. Giovanni Baula. According to court records in St. Petersburg, Florida, on two separate occasions, the good doctor expressed his ire with Dr. Dylan Dinesh by dousing the latter’s office doors in gallons of fluid that smelled suspiciously like urine.As The Smoking Gun reports, court documents say the liquid “soaked into the front wooden doors, causing irreparable damage.” Dinesh’s practice suffered $6,000 worth of losses, in addition to the $1,500 to replace the doors. Baula was arrested and charged with a felony count of criminal mischief but released after paying a $5,000 bond. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Baula doesn’t exactly have a clean rap sheet. In 2003,

he was fined $10,000 and reprimanded by the Board of Medicine for a number of standard-ofcare violations, including improperly prescribing medication for a telehealth client that he never physicallyexamined.Hismedicallicenseexpires in January 2025.

Is Nowhere Sacred?

Thanat Thangtewanon of Thailand recently had a bathroom break that was, well, nuts. India’s Deccan Herald reported that on Aug. 22, what started as a routine trip to the washroom ended with Thangtewanon killing the python that had bitten his testicles. “I felt something biting my balls, which was very painful, so I put my hands in,” he said.After whacking the reptile on the head with a toilet brush until it died and released its grip, Thangtewanon headed to the hospital for a tetanus shot. Doctors assured him that his injury wasn’t too deep, and that no stitches would be required. Perhaps he should count himself lucky, all things considered –pythons are known for suffocating and squeezing their prey to death!

Party Hearty

On Aug. 28 in Almhult, Sweden – the site of the first IKEA store – 2,052 of the furniture giant’s employees donned two-piece pajamas and set a Guinness World Record for “the largest-ever gathering of people wearing twopiece pajamas in a single venue” ... or, you know, the world’s largest pajama party. The matching pjs featured images of lingonberry jam and gravy, an homage to the store’s iconic Swedish meatballs. The party was scheduled to align with IKEA’s new yearlong initiative to “innovate a range of sleep products to improve every aspect of home that supports better rest,” according to a company statement.

The dogs at Beaumont Animal Care spend most of the day in their kennels until they’re adopted or pulled by a rescue. Give them a much-needed break by taking them out for a fun-filled day around town! This is a FREE and fun way to help the dogs in your community. All you have to do is visit the shelter at 1884 Pine St. between the hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. No appointment is necessary and dogs can leave the shelter as early as 10 a.m., but need to be back at least an hour before closing. Let our staff know you want to take a dog out for a day and we’ll help you pick the right fit!

Meet Nola! She is a shy girl with tons of affection for the right person. Nola wants “TLC” but is very shy when asking for it. She enjoys being around other dogs and seems to find comfort in them. Nola will be a medium/large size dog once full grown (Great Pyrenees mix) and would do best in a home with a yard.

Adoption fee is $70.

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

By John Deering and John Newcombe

Forsaking All, I Trust Him

In a recent column, I wrote saying that people must trust Christ and believe by faith. We don’t see him sitting across the table from us, nor does he usually physically ride to work with us in a manner folks can see or meet us in the classroom or at the grocery store. So, for many, faith is hard to get a handle on, especially when the Devil is working overtime to keep us from believing or sharing.

I had the joy of helping to host Mitch Albom, a prolific writer, at an event in Beaumont some years ago where he was speaking. Not only is Mitch a talented writer, sports enthusiast, ESPN commentator, and conversationalist, he is funny. He wrote the popular “Tuesdays with Morrie,” about a former teacher, “The Five PeopleYou Meet in Heaven,” and other books. Sitting in the hospitable green room we had provided, he signed over 700 copies of his current book. Mitch chatted as though we had been friends for years.

I had thought he would want to go change his clothing before he spoke, but he is so down to earth, he simply wore the open necked green shirt and tan slacks he had flown there in earlier in the day. I have heard many speakers over the years, but seldom have I ever seen one hold the audience as he did. When he finished speaking, no one moved, no one said a word, or even coughed. Finally, one gentleman in the crowd stood and began clapping. Others followed in a very long, wild, and cheerful standing ovation.He stayed late into the night and shook hands and spoke to every single person that wanted to meet him.

As he left, he asked me straight up, “What is faith to you?” I thought quickly, and answered, “Forsaking all, I trust Him.” He handed me a slip of paper out of his pocket and a pen and said, “Write that down.” And I quickly did. His car was waiting to take him back to the airport. He hugged me, thanked me, and handed me a copy of his book that he had signed for me with a greeting and thank you that I treasure.

Folks, the very definition I shared with Mitch is still what I would say if he askedmeagaintoday.Faithisseeingand believing what may seem impossible. The Bible says, “Faith is the substance

of things hope for, the evidence of things not seen.” You may be thinking, “But I have no faith or so little faith.” That really is not true. You have and exercise faith every day of your life and so do I. That chair we casually pull out from the table and sit in evidence our faith. We believe the car we drive is safety tested and will get us to school or work.

It is the object of our faith that matters. Please consider placing your faith in the finished work of Christ to provide eternally peace and rest when this life ends here on earth.

What if I am wrong and you are right about this matter? What have you lost to try what I sincerely believe? On the other hand, what if I am right and you are wrong?Abig, gaping eternity is at stake. By faith, trust Him today. Pray the sim

ple prayer by faith. “Dear Lord, I know that I am a sinner. I have sinned and come short of your mark. I believe you were not a sinner and that you died for my sins and the sins of the world. The best way I know how, I trust you today.” And, please, tell someone what you have done. They will rejoice with you.

Brenda Cannon Henley columnist