Jasper

Turnout yields surprises in elections

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Two incumbents and a political newcomer captured the three Jasper city council positions at stake during Saturday's election. All three winners led after the early voting numbers were released and coasted to their victories. Tommy Adams was re-elected for another term in office as he defeated James Collier 72-60 for the District 3 seat. Adams led 52-46 after early voting.

Citizens say 'yes' to propositions on streets, alcohol

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

And the voters said "yes" to all three Jasper propositions on the ballot Saturday. Jasper voters approved all three propositions on the ballot Saturday including two that will allow the sale of beer and wine in grocery stores and convenience stores and mixed beverages at restaurants in the city limits.

Three gain nods to Jasper ISD board

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Jasper school voters returned two "veterans" and one newcomer to three positions during Saturday's school trustee elections. James Riley, Carolyn Armitage and Tommy Street were elected to office and were sworn into office during Monday's meeting.

Rodeo action

05/14/2008

THIS COWBOY IS IN for a rough landing as he was sent high in the air by a bull during the bullriding competition at the Jasper Lions Club Rodeo.The four-day event concluded Saturday at the Lions Club Rodeo fairgrounds. See more photos on the rodeo on Page 12A. Newsboy photo/Charles Kerr

Utilities on at DMH with bankruptcy

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

According to Jasper City Manager Alan Grindstaff, the city has received notice that Greater Gulf Medical Alliance has filed bankruptcy papers. Greater Gulf Medical Alliance is the company that owns Dickerson Memorial Hospital.

Jasper's Kier to play drums with Memphis Sound

By GEORGIA PURDY Newsboy Correspondent — 05/14/2008

Jasper High School junior Andrew Kier has been selected to tour with the Drum Corps International group Memphis Sound this summer. Kier is a drum major with the JHS band. "I've never seen Andy so excited about anything as he is this," Jasper High School Band Director Jeff Parma said.

Two indicted by grand jury over toddler's death

By SHARON KERR Staff Writer — 05/14/2008

Crystal and Leo Desormeaux, the stepmother and the father of the toddler allegedly shaken to death in December, 2007, were each indicted in separate cases on exactly the same capital murder charges by the Jasper grand jury May 6.

Arena of faith

05/14/2008

Newsboy photo/ Charles Kerr A MOMENT OF SILENCE is held at the beginning of the Jasper Lions Club Rodeo.

Attacking others' beliefs earns no converts to Christ

JOE MILLER JR. — 05/14/2008

1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 The church is under attack from the surrounding culture. People who have converted to Christianity no longer seem to "fit in" with their friends.

Ministerial Alliance will hold Baccaluareate service May 18

05/14/2008

The Jasper Ministerial Alliance (JMA) will hold a Baccalaureate service May 18 at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Jasper to honor all 2008 high school graduates. Guest speaker will be Dr. S.C. Nash, president of the B.M.E. State Convention, and a candidate for the national. He is pastor of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church in Dallas.

Bits of Faith

05/14/2008

Deadline: announcements must reach us by Friday at 4 p.m.; fax 384-8803, email reporter@jaspernewsboy.com , or drop off at 702 S. Wheeler in Jasper. Plum Ridge Plum Ridge Baptist Church will have a revival beginning at 6 p.m. May 14-16 with Mark Humble and music by the Humble family.

Turnout yields surprises in elections

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Citizens say 'yes' to propositions on streets, alcohol

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Three gain nods to Jasper ISD board

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Rodeo action

05/14/2008

Utilities on at DMH with bankruptcy

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Jasper's Kier to play drums with Memphis Sound

By GEORGIA PURDY Newsboy Correspondent — 05/14/2008

Two indicted by grand jury over toddler's death

By SHARON KERR Staff Writer — 05/14/2008

A honor roll

05/14/2008

THE JASPER NEWSBOY inadvertently omitted one photo of Few Primary's second grade honor roll students last week. Pictured are Lyndon Poore, Mattie Hamilton, Bradley LeBlanc, Holly Lucas,Alex Camacho, Madeleine Jones, Cameron Morgan, Claire Walker,Armin Panjvani and Britney Scott.

Clownin' around

05/14/2008

PARNELL ELEMENTARY'S own Zane Morgan, a fourth grade student, was a model for the Rodeo Clowns to show students how they prepare for the rodeo.

School lunch menus

05/14/2008

Jasper ISD Thursday, May 15 - Spaghetti with meat sauce, garden salad, hot roll, apricots, choice of milk, "cool kit" pre-k - 6 Friday, May 16 - Corndogs, sweet potato fries, peas/carrots, apple wedges, choice of milk Monday, May 19 - Barbeque sandwich, cole slaw, baked beans, frozen fruit pop,

Few lists winners of Olympic Field Day

05/14/2008

Few Primary's first and second graders used their athletic talents in April at their Annual Few Olympic Field Day. Students rotated through over 30 stations, competing in their individual classes, for the title of Field Day Champions.

Walking the halls

By ANDY GOLDEN STARS Director — 05/14/2008

Hello from the STARS campus. We just finished another session of TAKS testing. We are anticipating a record number of graduates this spring. The STARS spring graduation ceremony will be Monday, June 2, in the Jasper High School auditorium at 6:00 pm.

Students of the Week

05/14/2008

Jasper High School Matt Garland is Jasper High School's student of the week for the week of May 12-16. "Matt is a quiet young man with ideas of where he wants his life to go," said teacher Kenneth Simmons. "He keeps his grades up while working. Matt is involved in showing livestock and in extra-curricular activities.

Penny by penny

05/14/2008

Newsboy photo/ Sharon Kerr TEACHER KARON RADFORD can't wait to unwrap the new Rowe Intermediate School marquee. Students and Rowe Pride supporters can be proud they earned the money to buy the marquee.

Walking the halls at Newton ISD

By GENE ISABELL Superintendent — 05/14/2008

Newton Independent School District has many events coming up before school ends. The board meeting will be May 19 at 6 p.m. Newton Elementary will have end of school awards May 21 - 29. Awards for sixth and seventh graders will be at 8:30 a.m. Kindergarten graduation and awards will be May 23. Staff will present a talent show May 30.

Beaumont boy wins 2-horse trailer from Booster Club

05/14/2008

Devin Sieble from Beaumont was the winner of the two-horse trailer at the drawing held May 10 during the Jasper Lions Club Rodeo. The Jasper High and Junior High School Rodeo Booster Club sold chances to raise money for future projects.

Memorial held for TDCJ employees

05/14/2008

The Glen Ray Goodman Unit of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice joined other units throughout the state in a memorial ceremony May 6 for TDCJ officers who have died in the line of duty. "Aceremony such as this is a most fitting tribute to those brave souls who have died in the line of duty," said Warden Michael Davis.

Hesters indicted by federal grand jury

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Two Kirbyville men were indicted by a federal grand jury May 7 on environmental crimes. Simply Aquatics, Inc. President Kevin Wayne Hester, 34 and his father, Kyle Hester, 59, were indicted on unlawfully transporting and disposing of hazardous wastes.

Last of FEMA trvel trailers leaving Texas before next Hurricane season

05/14/2008

The last handful of families in Jasper County who are still living in FEMA-owned travel trailers will be moved to other housing by June 1, according to Don Jacks, lead public information officer for the FEMA Texas transitional recovery office.

Caught in the act

05/14/2008

STUDENTS DRAWING ON THE WALLS were encouraged by the Jasper Junior High science department, who decided the blank walls needed a little character. From left: Brittney Pate, Noemy Navarrete, Joshua Thomas, Charnicia Burnett.

Jasper Lions Rodeo 2008 Ticket to Ride

05/14/2008

Newsboy photo/Charles Kerr COURTNEY ELLIOTT, 16, of Alvin was named 2008 Jasper Lions Rodeo Queen. Elliot is the daughter of Doug and Michelle Elliott.

WorkForce places youth with business for job experiences

By SHARON KERR Staff Writer — 05/14/2008

"It's your life, what's in it for you?" asks a brochure on what WorkForce Solutions can offer youth to prepare them for productive careers, and they offer employers a chance to find the right student to fill a part-time need.

A penny saved...

05/14/2008

IS JUST ENOUGH to buy a one cent stamp from the post office, because your old 41-cent stamps are no longer enough to mail a first class letter that weighs less than one ounce. New rates effective May 12 for first class is $0.42; up to two ounces is $0.59; a postcard, $0.27; a large envelope, $1; money orders, $1.05; certified mail, $2.70; first class international to Mexico or Canada, $0.72; first class international to all other countries, $0.94.

Take a RealityCheck with your teen

05/14/2008

If you are an adult and paying your own bills, you know what life costs on a monthly basis. If you are a kid, like most kids you probably tune your folks out when they start to lecture on what things cost today. Now there is a site for both groups to look at and make a reality check: www.twc.state.tx.us/realitycheck.

Hot or cold?

05/14/2008

Newsboy photo/ Sharon Kerr HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR ANTS? This ant farm was one of many projects where students formed a hypothesis, tested it, and drew conclusions in the Rowe science fair last week.

JHS scholarship night Thursday, 7 p.m.

05/14/2008

Jasper High School scholarship night will be May 15 at 7 p.m. in the JHS auditorium to recognize all seniors who are receiving scholarship awards. Seniors must provide proof of the scholarship to Tamara Harper in the main office by May 15. JHS 2008 yearbooks are now on sale; see Sharon Atkins in room 202 or call 384-2526.

J. Armand Lanier, Sr.

05/14/2008

Armand was born in 1917 in Newton, Texas about fifteen miles from Louisiana and considered himself a deep East Texan, this despite having lived in Austin since 1946. His people are from Jasper and Tyler counties, again far-east Texas--a part that is culturally Deep South.

Jean Evelyn Jackson

05/14/2008

Graveside services for Jean Evelyn Jackson, 58, were held Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at Sunset Memorial Park in Nacogdoches, Texas. Dr. Allen Richmond officiated. Mrs. Jackson passed away in her home on Monday, May 5, 2008 in Nacogdoches, Texas. Mrs. Jackson was born February 21, 1950 in Kirbyville, Texas to C. V. and Alice Sanford.

Clemons claims ABA District 53 title

By DONALD GERVAIS Lakecaster Correspondent — 05/14/2008

Chris Clemons captured the 2008 American Bass Angler (ABA) District 53 Championship tournament held May 10-11 on Lake Sam Rayburn with a total of 30.76 pounds. Terry Helgeson earned Angler of the Year title in a close battle.

Wright's documentary about Mt. Union is finalist in Boomtown Film Festival

By SHARON KERR Staff writer — 05/14/2008

The Long Black Line, Herman Wright Jr.'s documentary about some of the founding families of Jasper County, is a finalist in the Boomtown Film Festival this Saturday, May 17. The film will show at noon at the Beaumont Civic Center at 701 Main St.

Congressman Kevin Brady introduced bill to expand Big Thicket as eco-tourist destination

05/14/2008

The Big Thicket is poised to become an eco-tourist destination if U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady succeeds with his new House Bill 5891. "With the right vision and support, the Big Thicket can become a premier ecotourist attraction," said Brady.

Dies Park sets date for annual Fish Flop Tournament for kids

05/14/2008

Martin Dies Jr. State Park is sponsoring the annual Fish Flop Little Kids Fishing Tournament on Saturday, June 7. Registration starts at 8:00 am at the Hen House Ridge Unit fish cleaning shelter. Texas Parks & Wildlife Department recognizes the first Saturday in June as a great time to get outdoors and fish.

Couple celebrating 60 years

05/14/2008

Raymond Ellis and Vaudis Hopson recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They were married April 22, 1948 in Hemphill. They have one surviving son, Raymond Leamon Hopson of Jasper, and two deceased children, Don Windle Hopson and Darlene Hopson.

Faces & Places

05/14/2008

Deadline: announcements must reach us by Friday at 4 p.m.; fax 384-8803, email reporter@jaspernewsboy.com , or drop off at 702 S. Wheeler in Jasper. Bluebonnet Garden Club The Bluebonnet Garden Club will meet at the home of Beth Waxman May 15 at 10:30 a.m.

Wallers win top Ashley honors

05/14/2008

Ashley Furniture Homestores of Hemphill and Jasper recently won top performer awards among the more than 350 stores nationwide. The local Ashley stores are owned and operated by Bealls Furniture. They opened the local Ashley stores in October 2006 and July 2007.

Local small businesses eligible for EPA grants

05/14/2008

Small businesses in Jasper are eligible to apply for Environmental Portections Agency (EPA) grants for developing green alternatives in many fields. An Arkansas nanotechnology company won this year's award of $224,997 for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) to develop a green alternative to fluorescent lighting. A total of $1.

Scouts hike Big Thicket

05/14/2008

Jasper's Scout Troop 932 hiked seven miles in the National Big Thicket Preserve May 3. They hiked a northern portion of the Turkey Creek Trail near Warren. The hike included the Pitcher Plant Trail. The scouts went to an observation area where they saw thousands of the insectivorous plants growing in their natural environment.

Births

05/14/2008

Luis Fernando Vargas Gabriel and Blanca Vargas of Jasper announce the birth of their son, Luis Fernando, born May 5 at 9:24 p.m. at Christus Jasper Memorial Hospital. He weighed 4 pounds 10 ounces and was 19 inches long. Grandparents are Javier and Bertha Osequera.

Arrests

05/14/2008

The following persons were charged but not convicted of the crimes listed. Jasper County Sheriff Ronnie McBride provided this information under the Texas Open Records Act, Article 6252-17 April 25 t Michael Wayne Curtis, 51, motion to revoke probation; bond $3,000 t Gemeca Shwone Castle, 24, capias pro fine X 2; fines $337, $325 t Freda Franchelle Reed, 31,

Livestock

05/14/2008

Kirbyville Kirbyville Auction Barn reports 341 head sold May 3. BULL CALVES under 300 -$.90 to $1.65 300-399 lbs.-$.80 to $1.27 400-499 lbs.-$.77 to $1.15 500 lbs. &up-$.72 to $1.02 HEIFERS under 300 -$.90 to $1.55 300-399 lbs.-$.78 to $1.

Dawgs drum Horns; next stop Bridge City

By GEORGIA PURDY Newsboy Correspondent — 05/14/2008

If there was any doubt as to the strength of baseball teams in District 21-3A, it was dispelled this past weekend as the Jasper Bulldogs swept the Class 3A area play-off series with Bellville while the Bridge City Cardinals defeated Needville in three games, and the Hardin-Jefferson Hawks took out Sweeny in two.

Buna sweeps Centerville in two straight

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

The Buna Cougars made short work of Centerville in the Area round of the playoffs as the Cougars swept Centerville in two straight games 2-1, 16-3. In the first game, played Thursday, May 8, Buna found themselves tied 1-1 in the contest before scoring a late run to claim the 2-1 victory.

Showdown time

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

There must be something about District 21-3A baseball. Here it is, Class 3A playoffs and all three District 21-3A representatives are still alive and well in the playoffs. "This is one of the strongest districts in the state if not the strongest," Jasper Head Baseball Coach Shawn Mixon said a year ago of District 21-3A. "Nobody will 10-run rule another team.

JHS football camp set for June 16 - 19

05/14/2008

Jasper High School's youth football camp will be June 16 - 19, 8 a.m. - noon. The training is for ages 6 - 14. The last day of camp, will feature the return of the "Out Back Bowl." For more information call Coach Kevin Jackson at the JHS field house at 384-2526, ext. 1360.

If you didn't vote, please don't gripe

05/14/2008

The voters of Jasper and Jasper County chose our political direction Saturday, May 10. Those who went to the ballot box chose our leaders for city and school board as well as made crucial decisions on alcohol sales and economic development within Jasper's city limits.

Your Viewpoint Letters to the Editor

05/14/2008

Thanks for help By TERRI CHEELEY Jasper I would like to thank the Jasper community for supporting our fundraiser breakfast at Elijah's on April 25th. The funds will be used for supplies for a mission trip to Honduras. What a joy it is to be a part of such a giving and supportive community.

Guest Commentary One person's viewpoint

Mack Hall — 05/14/2008

This is an old wheeze; this version is from the 'blog Happy Catholic: Ayoung man hired by a supermarket reported for his first day of work. The manager greeted him with a warm handshake and a smile, gave him a broom, and said, "Your first job will be to sweep out the store. Work from the front to the back.

In Jasper County

05/14/2008

Capital Highlights A summary of the week's significant events in Austin

Ed Sterling Texas Press Association — 05/14/2008

A USTIN - Gov. Rick Perry was in Fredericksburg on May 9 to help break ground in a ceremony to begin construction of a 40,000 square foot expansion of the National Museum of the Pacific War. While there, Perry spoke to reporters and repeated his assertion that he plans to seek a third full term as governor in 2010.

If you didn't vote, please don't gripe

05/14/2008

Your Viewpoint Letters to the Editor

05/14/2008

Guest Commentary One person's viewpoint

Mack Hall — 05/14/2008

In Jasper County

05/14/2008

Capital Highlights A summary of the week's significant events in Austin

Ed Sterling Texas Press Association — 05/14/2008

Couple celebrating 60 years

05/14/2008

Faces & Places

05/14/2008

Wallers win top Ashley honors

05/14/2008

Local small businesses eligible for EPA grants

05/14/2008

Scouts hike Big Thicket

05/14/2008

Births

05/14/2008

Arrests

05/14/2008

Livestock

05/14/2008

Arena of faith

05/14/2008

Newsboy photo/ Charles Kerr A MOMENT OF SILENCE is held at the beginning of the Jasper Lions Club Rodeo.

Attacking others' beliefs earns no converts to Christ

JOE MILLER JR. — 05/14/2008

1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 The church is under attack from the surrounding culture. People who have converted to Christianity no longer seem to "fit in" with their friends.

Ministerial Alliance will hold Baccaluareate service May 18

05/14/2008

Bits of Faith

05/14/2008

J. Armand Lanier, Sr.

05/14/2008

Jean Evelyn Jackson

05/14/2008

Dawgs drum Horns; next stop Bridge City

By GEORGIA PURDY Newsboy Correspondent — 05/14/2008

Buna sweeps Centerville in two straight

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

Showdown time

By JIMMY GALVAN Editor — 05/14/2008

JHS football camp set for June 16 - 19

05/14/2008

A honor roll

05/14/2008

Clownin' around

05/14/2008

PARNELL ELEMENTARY'S own Zane Morgan, a fourth grade student, was a model for the Rodeo Clowns to show students how they prepare for the rodeo.

School lunch menus

05/14/2008

Few lists winners of Olympic Field Day

05/14/2008

Walking the halls

By ANDY GOLDEN STARS Director — 05/14/2008

Students of the Week

05/14/2008

Penny by penny

05/14/2008

Walking the halls at Newton ISD

By GENE ISABELL Superintendent — 05/14/2008

Beaumont boy wins 2-horse trailer from Booster Club

05/14/2008

Clemons claims ABA District 53 title

By DONALD GERVAIS Lakecaster Correspondent — 05/14/2008

Wright's documentary about Mt. Union is finalist in Boomtown Film Festival

By SHARON KERR Staff writer — 05/14/2008

Congressman Kevin Brady introduced bill to expand Big Thicket as eco-tourist destination

05/14/2008

Dies Park sets date for annual Fish Flop Tournament for kids

05/14/2008