The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

IT DIDN'T HAVE TO BE THIS WAY

As I sit here in home lock up after three months I'm tired of not being free. Like many of you I yearn for a normal life again. It seems so long ago when the first case of coronavirus was discovered in Seattle back in January. Think about that. Since then over 6 million cases of Covid-19 has been confirmed and still climbing. Over 167,000 citizens have died. That number projected to surpass a quarter million people will die. Unlike other countries around the globe that have returned to normal, we still have plenty of suffering and death to go through. While a number of countries did extremely well, we have done extremely poorly, and there is still no national leadership to help us get to the end game. It's a lie that coronavirus is coming to an end. A vaccine will be rushed through for approval but not yet tested and proven. That will all come before the election. You and I won't get an effective shot for at least six months. Our country and city governments in Orange County are doing a good job under these extreme conditions. Our citizens, for the most part, are being responsible and I believe that is holding cases down in the county. Each person must live their life as a model for others. Follow the rules. Frankly, I've been disappointed in our Texas leadership. Gov Abbott should have not taken the bait and been pressured to open up the state several weeks early. Today Texas is on fire with the virus. *****Today Joe Biden named his vice-presidential nominee. He had a good group of women to choose from. After the Primary I said a calculated guess is that Sen. Kamala Harris would be picked, and in fact she was Biden's choice. I believe at least two of the women up for consideration if Biden wins will be in his cabinet.*****At his golf club last Sunday President Trump signed three unconstitutional executive orders that were only political theater. What needs to happen is negotiating between the congress and the senate, the bodies that represent the citizens, not henchmen from Trump's camp. *****I have to move on. Please come along, I promise it won't do you no harm.

IMPRESSIVE LIST OF REPUBLICANS

JOIN BIDEN TEAM

Today there's no shortage of conservative thought leaders who've had it with President Donald Trump. They include columnist George Will, Editor Bill Kristol and Joe Scarborough, a one-time GOP congressman who now lights into Trump from his perch at MSNBC. There is also Steve Schmidt, the director of Sen. John McCain's 2008 presidential campaign and George Conway, a lawyer who once dug up dirt on President Bill Clinton and who is married to Trump aide Kellyanne Conway. The two have joined other Republicans to form The Lincoln Project, a group whose anti-Trump attack ads are so creative that they just might have elevated the genre to an art form. Now comes word that John Kasich, the former Ohio governor and Republican presidential candidate, is going to speak at the Democratic National Convention Aug. 17-20 in Milwaukee in favor of its presidential nominee Joe Biden. By any measure, it's an impressive array of firepower arrayed for the benefit of the former vice-president. This November, the Democrats' No. 1 job is to restore constitutional rule to this country by ridding it of what Schmidt calls this "illiberal, dishonest, vile, corrupt and incompetent president." Republicans can help with that. They should want to win so many swing voters and erstwhile Republicans that the GOP will be forced to face the reality that it simply has to change. Together with Democrats of all stripes, they could form a broad coalition of Americans intent on getting their country back. Kasich, could make this case. Like Biden, he has developed a deep reservoir of respect by establishing a set of principles of public service and sticking to them. Like Biden, he appeals to the types of voters who want a fair dose of common-sense in their politics. Former president George W. Bush and some members of his family, as well as other prominent Republicans, say they won't vote for Trump because they don't consider him a real Republican and site his lack of leadership.

TURNING BACK THE HANDS OF TIME

10 Years Ago-2010

The Elvis brand is still gold. Owner of the American Idol television program CKx, also owns 85 percent of Elvis Presley Enterprises. CKx is mulling at least two offers to buy the company at $535 million. CKx owns rights to name, image, Graceland Mansion etc. Presley died 33 years ago, in 1977, and the Elvis brand still generate $60 million a year. Elvis was only 42 but much older in miles. *****Longtime Republican chairperson and activist Lydia Damrel is now an organizer for the Southeast Texas Tea Party. *****Orange County star Matt Bryant is a kicker for the Atlanta Falcons. He hit a 30-yarder in Saturday's game. Meanwhile, another NFL local star Earl Thomas started at safety for the Seahawks Saturday. ***** For 10 weeks Gov. Rick Perry has refused to debate Bill White; he also is avoiding newspaper editorial boards. A rumor has it that Gov. Perry and Con. Brady will be in Orange soon for a photo-op having to do with a state of the art piece of equipment at Baptist Orange. Doesn't sound reasonable but we'll see. During election time take all the photo-ops you can get.*****The "Hook 'Um Horns" gesture came about in 1955 when Texas University student Henry Pitts, while playing with shadow figures which we have all done, noticed one gesture looked like the horns on Bevo. Pitts showed the gesture to UT head cheerleader Harley Clark, who introduced it to the student body at a pep rally. The rest is history. Do you know how the Aggies "Gig 'Um" sign got its start?*****Local author Sylvia Dickey Smith released her fourth novel "A War of Her Own," a historical novel taking place in the difficult days of World War II. It's also about her research of Orange's WW II heritage.*****Our friends of 40 years, Doug Harrington and wife Regina, are breaking camp. They have a contract on their four-acre home on 62. For many years Doug was owner of Harrington's Pharmacy. They are selling everything including antiques. Four thousand square feet of furnishings including antiques. They plan to move to Spring to be near their daughter.*****Special thanks to our buddy Jesse Domingue for keeping us supplied with Robbie's Abbeville made French bread. He travels through the Cajun village every two weeks to and from the oil rig. He's a great friend.*****The "Golden Girls" Red Hat Club of Bridge City were seen having a nice ladies outing this past week at the Pompano Club in Port Neches. Mary Frances Riley was hostess this month. Members enjoying the good company were Evelyn Gray, Belle Mouton, Wilma Wood, Ethel Compton, Noel Ogburn, May Maleski, Ruby Mestepay and Anabelle Rost, Roy's dear friend from Abbeville. Queen Donna Cole kept the ladies in order for their monthly meeting of good fellowship. *****Police Maj. M.W. "Mike" Broussard retires from the Orange Police Department after 34 years. That's a lot of days to tote a pistol. We wish Mike and Loretta smooth sailing. *****We understand "Big Mike" Ellender is in town for five days before reporting to a base in Alaska. He just completed basic training in Uncle Sam's Army and loves it. We understand he has a duffle bag full of stories. *****The Ninth Circuit Court puts gay marriages on hold indefinitely in California. Same sex couples can marry in Massachusetts, Iowa, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire and Washington D.C. ***** Bridge City Police has two new sergeants. Richard Teague came from DPS and Robert Bergeron was elevated from the police ranks. *****The annual canoe trip in Louisiana took place this past weekend. Some of the folks we know participating were the Johnny Montagne group, Bobby and Devera Cormier and grandkids and Chad Jenkins. It would have been worth the price just to see Johnny and Bobby fit in a canoe. ***** We were sorry to learn of the death of Marilyn Elaine Romero-Ramsey, 67, of Bridge City. A lifelong resident of the area and a Bishop Byrne High School graduate, Marilyn had worked for TOTAL for more than 25 years. She is survived by husband Mark, sons Doug Romero, Dwayne Romero and David Greiss, granddaughters Destiny, Perry, Grace and Abigail, sister Carol and brother Ron. Services held Wednesday, Aug. 18, at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves with burial at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

Obituaries 10 Years Ago-2010

Kenneth H. O'Barr Sr., 86, of Orange, passed away Monday, Aug. 9. Funeral services were Friday, Aug. 13. He had been a resident of Orange since 1952 and retired from DuPont in Orange as a production supervisor. He was a veteran of the Navy, serving on board the U. S. S. Lexington during World War II. Kenneth is survived by his son, Kenneth H. O'Barr Jr.*****Gladys Bishop Ousley, 93, of Orange died Tuesday, Aug. 10. Services were Friday, Aug. 13. Gladys is survived by her daughter, JoAnn Kibodeaux; son Tim Ousley; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.***** Bill Copelin, longtime resident of Orange, died Wednesday, Aug. 11. Services were Saturday, Aug. 14. He was employed by Gulf Oil for 34 years and later the Jefferson Amusement Company. He managed the Strand and MacArthur movie theaters. He is survived by his wife Ann Copelin; daughters Deborah Ann Boyd and Kimberly Copelin; granddaughter Sophie Elissa-Ann Boyd.

45 Years Ago-1975

At morning service, Aug. 24, "The Witnesses" from the First Baptist Church, Orange, organized in 1969, will appear at First Baptist Church of Joaquin under the direction of Jerry Talmadge. They will appear at Cove Baptist Church at the 7 p.m. service. Of the seven youths, the following are leaving for college this week. Six will be replaced by Sheree Davis, Paul Dorman, Larry Frederick, Shana Hazelwood, Boyd Hopkins and Britton Walters.***** A new arrival to Orange County is Ken Wyatt, owner of an advertising agency. He now makes his home in Bridge City. (Editor's note: Ken, a native of California, for many years was an active member of the community. *****Rotary Dist. Governor Neal Picket of Diboll is visiting with Orange County clubs this week. *****Sam Dunn, a young attorney, joins his dad S.P. in the law firm of Dunn-Windham and Dunn. *****June Badon begins her 20th year as a teacher of dance. Her school is at 2425 Western Ave. *****Linda Johnson weds Harry Price and Martha Hudson marries Rusty Williams.

85 Years Ago-1935

Clyde Dawson, 21 and B.F. Thompson, 28, escaped prisoners of San Antonio, have been charged with the murder of Orange police chief Johnny Godwin, 31. The fatal shooting occurred on Green Avenue when Godwin and Officer George LaFitte stopped the men for hijacking and car theft. After firing the fatal shot, Dawson kidnapped Jessie Webb and Rosalie Patterson, forcing them to drive him to Lake Charles. He was later captured and arrested. Thompson was held at gunpoint in the car by LaFitte.

A FEW HAPPENINGS

Acadians were exiled from Nova Scotia Aug. 15, 1765, 225 years ago. Those of us of Acadian heritage know so well the history about when the British issued the Acadian expulsion order, July, 1755 and carried out le Grand Derangement or great upheaval. The ethnic cleansing of the Acadians from Nova Scotia, resulting in thousands of deaths, was all because of religion and the language they spoke. In 1765, Beausoleil Broussard led 193 out of the thousands of Acadians to south Louisiana where they practiced their Catholic religion. Then in 1776 the U.S. Constitution guaranteed them that they never again would be persecuted because of their religion. It's a right all Americans have to worship in their own way, wherever they choose. *****Our friend, one of Dot's offspring, Monty Eshbach celebrates a birthday Aug. 13. *****On Aug. 14, 1976, Judge Don Burgess and Bobbie Grosman were wed. I remember that but didn't realize it had been that long ago. Don, a young lawyer, showed up with a bride named "Muffins" soon after being hired as an assistant to District Attorney Sharon Bearden.*****On Aug. 14, Kristie Gunn celebrates a birthday and Magic Johnson turns 61.*****Aug. 15, Acadians were exiled from Nova Scotia, 1965, 225 years ago.*****Aug. 16, 1948, Babe Ruth died at age 52. On the same day in 1977, 42 year old Elvis Presley died. *****Aug. 18, 1984, Sheriff Chester Holts died. He has been the longest serving sheriff in Orange County history. He left office in 1968 after 21 years of service with no unsolved major crimes. ***Also today, Aug. 18, Robert Redford turns 84. Does that make you feel old?*****Our apologies to State Senator Robert Nichols, whose first name came out Robery in last week's headline on his column. The senator is a friend of ours. "Sorry Bob, the Gremlins got us.*****We spoke with Karen Fisher, tax assessor collector, and she reports that she is doing fine after her heart procedure last week. "I haven't felt this good in a long time," she said. Ms. Fisher is due to return to her office Aug. 25. *****August marks 100 years since the passage of the 19th Amendment. To commemorate USA TODAY will recognize 100 women who have made a substantial impact on our country or our lives over the past 100 years since being allowed to vote on Aug. 14. Monday they featured actress Rita Moreno, a native of Puerto Rico. *****What a joke, the second coming of Lincoln's Gettysburg address.

BREAUX BIRTHDAYS

Celebrating birthdays in the next few days are Jared Sleeman, Jennifer Babin, Chris Bailey, Melissa Cox, Ken Phelps, Lyn Goodwin, Wade Estes, Terry Walles, Aaron MacCammond, Ada Bridges, Andrew Glover, Diane Justice, Jerry Windham, Lindsey Schaffer, Britanie Long, Christina Myers, Gavyn Fisher, Valerie Richter, Norma Smith, Beth Holm, Joe Sanders, Brenda Gage, Johnny Stimac, John Everett, Jordan New, Karen Day, Shandi Conner, Danielle Heil, Carolyn Ward, Ian MacCammond.

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS

August 12: Maggie Lawson  40,  Actress; Yvette Nicole Brown  49,  Actress; Jim Beaver  70,  Actor.*****August 13: DeMarcus Cousins  30, Basketball Player; Sebastian Stan  38,  Actor.*****August 14: Magic Johnson  61,  Basketball Player; Halle Berry  53,  Actress; Milo Kunis  37,  Actress; Steve Martin  75,  Actor.*****August 15: Jennifer Lawrence  30, Movie Actress Ben Affleck  48,  Actor; Debra Messing  52,  Actress.*****August 16: Madonna  62,  Pop Singer; Steve Carell  58,  Actor; Rumor Willis  32,  Actress.*****August 17: Robert DeNiro  77,  Actor; Donnie Wahlberg  51, Actor; Sean Penn  60, Actor; Belinda Carlisle  61,  Pop Singer.*****August 18: Edward Norton  51, Actor; Christian Slater  51, Actor; Robert Redford  84,  Actor.

CAJUN STORY

Clarence Thibeaux, him, was injured during the war. While recuperation for several months in London he learned to play the bagpipes. He played his pipes free at funerals wen axed. One day Oris Broussard, da funeral director at Vincent's in Abbeville, axe him to play at a graveside service for old man Otis Gillbeaux, wat was a pauper him. He had no family so da service would be on his little piece of land nex to his little cabin.

Broussard gave him da directions. Go to Indian Bayou, take da dirt road to Forked Island, den a couple more turns. Clarence him got lost and arrived an hour late. Broussard, da funeral guy, had evidently gone and da hearse was nowhere in sight. Dere were only da diggers left and dey was eating dere lunch. Clarence him felt bad , he apologized to da mens for being late. Clarence went to do side of da grave and looked down. Da vault lid was already in place but he started to play bagpipe anyway.

Da workers put down dere lunches and gathered around. Clarence played his heart and soul for poor Mr. Gillbeaux. As he played "Amazing Grace" da mens started weeping, Clarance wept wit dem. Wen he finish he packed up his bagpipes, headed to his car, head hung low, his heart heavy. Wen he opened his car door he heard one of dem mens say, "I never seen nutten like dis before me and I've been putting in septic tanks for 20 years."

C'EST TOUT

DONALD TRUMP'S MONUMENT

In Sunday's lead story, the San Antonio Express, shot down border wall claims. President Donald Trump's signature campaign to build a border wall from the Gulf Coast to the Pacific has added only 5 miles of new walls along the U.S.-Mexico border. Since he took office in 2017, the administration has set aside $15 billion for 738 miles of walls and fencing on the 2,000-mile border, with the money coming from Homeland Security, the Defense Department and the Treasury Forfeiture Fund despite vowing that Mexico would pay for the wall. Only 5 new miles of the 30-foot high steel bollard fencing where none existed before, have been completed, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data obtained by the Express-News. At least 3 miles of the new barrier are in the Rio Grande Valley, near Roma. The administration also has completed 24 miles of new secondary fencing - a double barrier - and replaced 236 miles of outdated or dilapidated fencing. However, the administration has allocated funding for 400 miles of replacement walls, 57 miles of new secondary fencing and 281 miles of new primary walls. "Trump is trying to say he's kept his campaign promise, but he's not saying what he's actually doing, which is just replacement sometimes of a double fence," said U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Laredo. The government has been building walls and moving with more urgency on contracts in recent months in advance of the November election. The government this week awarded Fisher Sand and Gravel $289.5 million to build 17 miles of border wall in Laredo - all on private land. "They don't even own the land, yet they are awarding hundreds of millions of valuable taxpayer dollars to contractors to come into our community and destroy something that's irreplaceable. And that's offensive," said Tricia Cortez, executive director of the nonprofit Rio Grande International Study Center. "We think it's a lot of political theatrics and these are just sort of PR moves that they're making right now to make you think this is unstoppable, and this is a done deal," Cortez, the Laredo resident, said. "I think we can see right through a lot of that nonsense and we're not buying it." Armed with City Council approval, residents in Laredo will be painting a "defund the wall" street mural outside the federal courthouse in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, more Mexicans are leaving Texas than those coming in.*****Time's up. Take care, stay safe and God bless.