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IF CHRIST HAD A DOG

I often wonder if Christ had a dog, all shiny and silky like mine, with cute little ears and a nose round and wet, and eyes brown and tender that shine. I'm sure if HE had, that little dog would know from the start HE was God. He'd need no proof that Christ was divine and would worship the ground where HE trod. I am afraid that he hadn't cause I have read how HE prayed in the garden alone. When all of HIS friends and disciples had fled, even Peter, the one called the stone. And I am sure that little dog, his heart so tender and warm, would never have left HIM to suffer alone, but creeping right under HIS arm, would have licked HIS dear fingers in agony clasped and knowing no feeling but loss, when they took HIM away would have trotted behind and followed HIM right to the cross.

The recent high jinks of the Beaumont Enterprise and the Silsbee Bee are shameful. Their slanderous articles about former DA Bugs Coe and their attempts to make a paragon out of recently elected DA David Sheffield is more at home in some third rate rag. Bugs was not allowed to defend his record and in truth his record should not have been discussed on a front page forum. It is very obvious the Enterprise and the Bee have some long term agenda as regards the Silsbee clan. To date Bug's response has NOT been published. I know from personal experience the Enterprise does not respect truth or hard work as my paltry pay for more than six years as a writer for the Hardin County News did not reflect the quality of work I contributed. I realize as a woman and a WHITE woman my worth is not often esteemed by a male dominated world. I did and do however believe my contributions to the community as a whole - although often overlooked - are still important and worth the effort even if many are grudging in their compensation. I have heard it a thousand times - "I just love how you write." What seems to pass over their heads is writing takes time and money. They seem to want something for nothing. Well excuse me but nothing does not pay the bills - least not around my house! But back to the Enterprise and the Bee - they need to apologize not only to Bugs but to their readers. They were wrong to publish such rot and they need to be man or woman enough to

Most of you have seen long time game show Wheel of Fortune. I have always considered the show light entertainment - suitable for family viewing. After Monday night's episode - I won't anymore. One of the contestants - a young man - introduced his fiance - also a young man. When the show was over - the two young men hugged and kissed. Host Pat Sajak walked off. Personally we should all contact our local CBS outlet, the media, SONY who owns Wheel of Fortune. Their address is 12400 Wilshire Blvd., West Los Angeles, CA 90025. Remember - all it takes for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.

After last April's fire which destroyed the First Baptist Church - many were interested to learn about the church's history. I recently came across an original program of the church's dedication - dated January 30, 1955 at 2:30 PM. On the front cover is a photo of the church and on the inside a welcome from Rev. and Mrs. Dan Gardner and their three children, Frank, Dana and Jack. A photo of the old church - which was located near our current library is also shown as well as a history of the church. The building committee consisted of my dad Willie Bean, Willie Freeman and Frank Pitts. Furnishing and color committee was Mrs. Lester Jenkins, Mrs. A. H. Holt, Mrs. H. A. Crosby. Employment Committee was Milton Reeves, R. C. Williams and Ed Carrier. Legal Committee was T. M. Jordan and Willie Bean. Plans Committee: E. D. Kennedy, Elton Spivey and R. A. Williford, Jr. Purchasing Committee: Elton Spivey, H. A. Crosby and Virgil Jordan. Publicity Committee was Mrs. James McKim, Jr. and my Mom - Eloise Bean. Kitchen Committee: P. G. Ellis, David Sharp and Elton Spivey. Finance and Bond Selling Committee consisted of Nine Committees. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hawthorne, Mr.Fred Jordan, my Dad Willie Bean, Mr. and Mrs. Dave Roundtree, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Harrell were but a few of the members who participated in the church's success. A photo of the members is shown on the opposite page. The Memorial page listed the donors and they were three windows in memory of Mrs. Fanny Hooks by Allums children, six windows in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Coe by the Coe family, pulpit Bible given by Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Holt in memory of Mrs. Henry Holt. The cry room was given in memory of Miss Ruth and Miss Coo Seale by their family. Pulpit furniture and organ in memory of Zula Hooks by children and grand-children. There were others also. A complete list is available if you would like to contact me. The dedication service began with Amazing Grace, a prayer followed, there was recognition of committees, volunteer labor and memorial gifts. Fred Hobbs presented special music. Rev. Dan Gardner introduced the speaker Dr. W. R. White. A prayer of dedication by Rev. Don Covington closed the service. It brought back memories for me to read the names - to many - just a name but to me - an image, a memory, a touch stone of a by-gone era.

"In you O Lord do I put my trust and confidently take refuge; let me never be put to shame or confusion!" Psalm 71:

WILLIAM MARLOW ETCHING - TONCHO II - CIRCA 1986 FOR SALE. CALL 409-246-1295

In less than two months Prince William will marry commoner Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey. There is much talk about what gown she will wear, who will be invited, etc. It seems our President will not be included for one. Fetching Kate will no doubt be decked out befitting a future Queen. One thing she should not be wearing is a white dress as she and Prince William have been openly living together for years. No matter what the current moral climate dictates - sex is for marriage as created by God. It is not to be tossed about carelessly. Every society which has sought to thwart God's laws have paid a bitter price. They at long last realize the moral compass will point straight back to the Bible and its invaluable wisdom. They often do so at a great cost. I pray for this couple - that they too will come to know the Lord.

"Give honor to marriage and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultry."Hebrews 1

History is not always fair and that certainly seems to be the case of President Herbert Hoover. He has been painted as a dufus who lost to FDR but in reality he was not only a smart man but a great humanitarian. He was responsible for the rescue of one million Belgian refugees during WWI. During the horrific famine in Russian during the year 1921 he was in charge of the relief effort which has been credited with saving the lives of three million people. He also made certain much needed crops were planted to ensure no more famine. It must have saddened him to realize most did not remember his positive contribitions in history or as in my case never taught these facts in any history book. If President Hoover's family has a chance to read this I would like to say a big thank you and quickly add how sorry I am most have such short memories. Shame on us all for that.

"Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so God can heal you. When a believing person prays, great things happen. Elijah was a human being just like us. He prayed that it would not rain and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Then Elijah prayed again and the rain came down from the sky, and the land produced crops again." James 5: 16 - 18

Do you know what the signs of a stroke? Warning signs are: 1. Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body. 2. Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding 3. Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes 4. Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordiation 5. Sudden severe headache with no known cause. ACT FAST: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is his speech slurred or strange? If you observe any of these signs call 911 ASAP!

Did you get a chance to watch the Royal Wedding? Nobody can outdo the Brits when it comes to putting on the dog. - but please those hats - some of them should have been at Picadilly Circus ratherf trhan Westminster Abbey. The couple prayed the Lord's Prayer and I hope that awesome prayer will become an intrigal part of their daily lives. From what I have seen the Lord does not hold a very high position with the Royal Family and that is a shame. Hopefully HE will because to neglect HIM has deadly eternal consequences.

"Preserve me O Lord for in You I put my trust." Psalm 16:1

For those of you who own land which has been passed down from generation to generation it might be a good idea to make certain the acres you are paying taxes on are accurate. I know of one family who has been paying taxes on a half dozen acres for more than 70 years - only to recently learn they have been paying for an acre which does not exist. Should get a 72 year refund if folks want to be fair. The only way to obtain an accurate reading of your land is to hire a high priced surveyor. It is such a pity some want to benefit from your need by showing their excessive greed and there are a number of occupations which fall into that unenviable category.

Patricia Morgan - mother of Dana Pitman and mother-in-law of Rev. Jeff Pitman recently passed away. She was always a fashion plate - beautifully dressed and a real testament to her strong Christian faith. She had battled cancer for a number of years and I know her pain is over but her friends and family will dearly miss this

classy lady. Prayers their way!

"There is a season for everything., and a season for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die," Ecckesuastes 3: 1,2

I have been visiting family in beautiful Ruidoso, New Mexico. I have heard from my local family how awesome the scenery is but until I saw it for myself - it is hard to imagine. Ruidoso is a few hours drive from El Paso but has a charm all its own. Majestic mountains surround the quaint town which has become a playground for the retirees or those who wish to get away from the fast paced city life. There are a number of hotels, inns, cottages, bed and breakfast as well as RV parks which provide easy access to ski resorts, hiking, camping. My cousin and I checked out several of the shops which are geared for tourists. She and I as well as her husband drove to Ski Apache which has yet to see this season's snow fall. The ski lifts are ready to go. Gorgeous aspen trees have shed their leaves but a few are still in full view. Coming from an area where fall follage is rarely impressive - is a reminder there are some spots in the USA which adheres to splendor and does so in style. A flight of less than two hours from Houston to El Paso will introduce you to some breathtaking sights. Of course for those who don't wish to fly - the long and tedious drive on I 10 is also a possibility. Either way you will not regret your stay in this glorious part of New Mexico.

"I have been young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or HIS seed begging for bread." Psalm 37:25

Read in the news the infamous Tonga Men's Club is going out of business. Gee - what a shame it was in business at all but after 40 years of disservice to the community it will be closing its doors. Supposely the two owners have passed away. One can only assume they did not die in church. One can hope they did repent and accept the Lord.

The shocking news of the sudden death of Bobby Bolch has left many grieving friends and family. This is no more true for members of Great Promise Church. I met Bobby earlier this year at Great Promise and found him to be a caring and genuine person. He was a gifted musician and singer and a very good artist. He had retired to Kountze from Jefferson County where he had worked as a welder. His modest but comfortable home on Villa Road provided an enjoyable retirement. His last day here on this earth was spent in church. He had played four songs at Great Promise Church and according to more than one attendee was glowing. He even helped serve the coffee following the afternoon service. As he started to leave on his motorcycle - several church members asked him if he wanted them to carry his guitar in their truck and follow him home? His prophetic words were he was ok as he didnt have far to go. As he left - his customary smile and wave were the last they saw of him. Minutes later he met his end or should I say his beginning at Trade Days when he ran into a vehicle which was making an illegal U turn. I was out of town when this happened but upon hearing the news and finally connecting the dots - I drove to Bobby's home and sat on his swing. His cowboy boots were there - as was his pick up and a magazine dedicated to guitars. The quiet serenity seemed to defy the grief so many are feeling. We don't know why this happened - only that it did and once again we are reminded God does not need our permission nor does HE have to explain why. The hard part is to accept what has occurred and carry on as best we can. For sure no one is promised tomorrow and that is something everyone should realize.

One of the interest things I learned while in New Mexico was the infamous Billy the Kidd seemed to be a rather intelligent young man if his letters written from jail are any indication. His English better than most from that era no doubt. He begged Gov. Lew Wallace to be pardoned and expected to be but that didnt happen. In fact Gov. Wallace signed the Kidd's death warrant and promptly left the area. He had other things on his mind at that time - like the completion of his historic novel Ben Hur.

"All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever." I Peter 1: 24,25

Happy Valley celebrated October 30th in style when the Stanleys - a well known gospel group performed during the morning service. A yummy lunch was served and enjoyed by all. It was time for everyone to say their Amens and eat all at the same time.

The recent wildfire which consumed 500 acres had us all scared. My brother who was driving back from the Houston airport could see the smoke from Dayton. The closer he got to home the worse it got. I heard smoke was so bad - visibility was very sparce. Thank God it was soon extinquished and hopefully that will be the last. Thank God for the rain but we need so much more. Trees everywhere are dying and that includes quite a few in Houston near the airport.

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When a giant passes away - that is often the time when one realizes just how much they contributed. Often one regrets they didn't give them bouquets while they were living. I hope my respect for Geraldine Watson has been adequately reflected throughout the years. I will attempt to do her justice now. I first met Geraldine when I was 13 and she was teaching art classes at the Silsbee library. I later became a private pupil and trekked to her home south of Silsbee. At that time her children were young and simply adorable. Marvin Ellis, David, Eden and Regina reminded me of the mice from Cinderella. When I would walk down their drive way to the front door I would often hear "Here comes the Beanie Weenie!" Mrs. Watson's home reflected her creative genius and I marvel even now how she wore so many hats. She raised a young family, tended to her husband - an even tempered man named Earl, wrote a newspaper column, taught art classes, went to college to learn even more about plants, nature and the Big Thicket. She was mentored by legendary Lance Rosier and spoke highly of him all her life. Her soft dialect masked a sharp and inquisive mind. Later she founded a nature preserve in Tyler County where she would often retreat to paint, write yet another book or just enjoy nature. Her best selling book Reflections on the Neches was a work of love for her and something she was duly proud of. She took more than one boat ride down the Neches River and did so until she was in her 80s. Ill health forced her to cease many of her activities but not all. The last time we spoke - her mind sharp and clear. She was planning to return from Austin and continue on with her work. I remember our last visit - a lunch at a local restaurant which followed sitting outside where we watched the birds fly over head and the turtles sun on the logs. I like to think that Geraldine is sitting in heaven - basking in untold beauty, surrounded by her friends and family. She will never again suffer any pains, never again battle ill health. If one wishes to honor her memory she would be happy to know watsonpreserve.org was the beneficiary. By knowing her I have been the beneficiary and am the richer for it.

Well the 69 Sports Bar and Grill has reopened with new owners. I passed the other day and noted a nice, new sign so will have to check it out.

Heard about the family from Minnesota who was in the horrible car crash. Seems they were travelling in a motor home - all 19 of them - and a teenage driver in a truck struck them. Seven members have died and others are hospitalized. No doubt they most certainly need our prayers and any financial assistance one can render. To make a donation the address is: Kerber Family Fund, Home Town Bank, 101 S. Creek Lake, Jordan, MN 55352 - attn: Dave Holzer

I got a chance to visit with long time Kountze business woman and resident Erma Anderson while working in Jasper. She sends her regards to one and all. Despite being over 90 - Erma gets around and has a sharp mind. She was a giving and caring person when she lived here and continues to be. She is the owner and landlord of apartments in Jasper off the main highway. The world would certainly be a better place if more people took a leaf out of Erma's book.

"Peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near Says the Lord and I will heal him." Isaiah 57:19

Happy Valley Church hosted a meeting which everyone should attend - atleast once. Sgt. Bill Davis, retired from the Beaumont Police Dept. spoke about the importancne of being safe, at home, when driving, when shopping,etc. He shared a number of good tips on home safety as well as safety when out and about. Brochures entitled Personal Safety: A Fact of Life, Taking Care of Children, Sex and the Law.Documenting every item in your home by make and serial # is a must as well as photographs. Storing on your computer's hard drive is also a great way to improve your chances of reclaiming items stolen should such happen. He also stressed the importance of pepper spray, learning to be aware of your surroundings when shopping, etc. I highly recommend should you have the opportunity to hear Sgt. Davis I would do so and take a friend or two with you. Ralph Martin of Broussards also spoke of the importance of planning your funeral, taking care of details which so many simply forget to do. He spoke of completing the Thoughtful Decisions Guide as well as contacting an attorney who is certified in elder law. One he recommended - Randy Drewett of Beaumont. Speaking of the law - did you know if you or your loved one goes to a nursing home and Medicaid pays for it - when death comes - the government has every right to garnish your estate to reclaim the funds? I learned at the meeting from Dee Hall who works at Texas Health and Human Services there is a Lady Bird law which will protect someone's home but she recommended contacting an attorney to learn all the details. Thanks to Happy Valley for a very informative evening.

"Your words have I hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11

The April Trade Days went off without a hitch. Beautiful weather drew the crowds who enjoyed good food, new as well as regular vendors. Fellow Happy Valley church members - John and Joyce Hankamer sold home made bird houses, garbage cans and the likes and made quite an impression. Salty Sweet Creations - Body and Beauty Products a first time vendor from Pt. Neches. I tried and liked the products so much I purchased a basket of goodies. Check them out at saltysweetcreations@yahoo.com. Gold Mine Farm which hosts minature donkeys and BEW donkeys was also a new vendor. Jerry and Barb Persinger from Livingston created alot of interest as one of their donkeys had a three week old baby who was absolutely adorable. Contact information is 936-328-0474 or www.goldminefarm.com. One Creative Family - hand made bling blings, bows, crosses, signs, paintings, wooden pens and pencils just another indication of all the variety at our Trade Days. Their contact information is 409-622-9584. Other vendors - Ronnie Bingham at 409-679-9302 and James Ward at 409-200-9346. Of special; note - last month I donated to Frankie's Wildlife Metal Art a large piece of drift wood I had retrieved off Cypress Creek the summer of 1969 and placed on the wall in my old bedroom. There it has hung til recently when I decided to make good use of it and donated such to Frankie. I also had several more interesting wood which I happily gave to Frankie. He is a true artist and has already created several gorgeous pieces from the old drift wood - one which he gave to me. I really appreciate his generosity. Frankie's contact info is 409-926-3959. Remember Trade Days is the 4th week-end of every month. Many of the vendors will be at the Music Fest. Either way - hope to see you there.

The passing of Neal House Jr. took me back to the year he was my high school history teacher. His teaching style was very laid back but he did enjoy sharing the merits of a solid knowledge of history. His mother was our school librarian and his sister and brother lived in the area. His dad was a part of the courthouse as well as school history. Prayers for his many friends and family.

"Not by might, nor by power but by My Spirit says the Lord of hosts." Zechariah 4:6

The 5th Hardin County MusicFest was by all accounts a great success. The weather was near perfect - show cased by a full moon. Friday night local boy Mark Chestnutt entertained more than 3,000 people who danced, swayed and enjoyed his folksy humor and references to his close connections. Mark as many of you know lives in Sour Lake. Some of the Trade Day vendors were on hand to feed the masses as well. Saturday night long time favorite Gene Watson sang a number of his beloved tunes. Gene who hailes from Palestine, TX was followed by country/rock cross overs The Bellamy Brothers who had hits with Let Your Love Grow, Red Neck Girl but to name a few. That night an estimated crowd of more than 5,000 were on hand. Coupled danced, crowds cheered and despite the presence of a few drunks who in some cases were legless - it was a well behaved audience. No doubt the festival which began in 2007 will continue to grow in stature. To all those who worked to create an atmosphere of success - hats off to you.

The shocking loss of John Brekel who passed away at the relatively young age of 53 brings back into focus the reality nobody has tomorrow. I knew John through his wife Vickie and her former in-laws the Carters. I had just seen John, Vickie and his brother at St. Elilzabeth back in March. From all the glowing guest book comments online John was a terrific guy. Keep the family in prayer as they cope with this sudden and unexpected loss.

Today is Mother's Day and for me it is a bittersweet reflection of mom. I recall all the times we as a family celebrated. I would drive over from Houston and we would share a family meal. That is now a hazy memory as there is no family meal. I had salad and pizza and the family get together has been fractured. I encourage all of you to enjoy mama. All too soon she will be gone and nothing - I REPEAT - nothing wil be the same.

I met the owner of the 10 acres across the street from me and he seems like a nice, ambitious young man with a family. His wife is on her way to being a nurse practioner and he plans to build a nice family retreat on the acreage.

Remember to keep my brother in prayer as he goes back to MD Anderson for more chemo. I know the Lord is able to heal. There is nothing too hard for HIM. I know HE is not a man that HE should lie. There are so many will illnesses right now. It seems to be an epidemic. I for one am going to dig down deep and pray and fast and expect to see the Lord move just as HE has promised to do.

"So we fasted and entreated our God for this and HE answered our prayer." Ezra 8:23