Montgomery County News, March 27, 2024

by Ruben Borjas

Jr MCN contributing writer

districtsareperforming.

During meeting trustees guaranteed maximum renovations

an to Montgomery ISD the of March pricing f r re ti n to High

In an ongoing effort to make Montgomery ISD schoolsbetter,theBoardof Trustees, in their March gatheringapprovedpricing for renovations to MontgomeryHighSchool. Thiscomesontheheelsof MISD’s move to bring the curriculum more in line with possible career opportunities that students will encounter in the the future The district continues to perform well as judged by websites like Niche com, which rates based on student surveys that provide an in-depth picture as to how school

During the meeting on the19th,trusteesapproved the guaranteed maximum price for renovations at MontgomeryHighSchool. The dollar amount has yet to be released, but the Board vowed to continue tofocusontransparencyon projects such as the renovations, and share updatesastheycomeabout on the progress until completion The high school renovation project isfundedbythe2022bond election.

positively impact learning environment the school and teachers support of students years come.”

positively impact the learning environment at the school and allow our teachers and staff to support the needs of our students for years to come.”

r ormanc in t e said had studentsearn all-district this year, 31 earned academic allstatehonors.” also noted that district 33 student t l t w a e pursuing their at next b n Bo s MCN contributing

M I S D A t h l e t i c Department, Athletic Director Clint Heard, reportedonthestateofthe district'sathleticprograms, their highlights and accomplishments across the 32 sports that are represented across the secondarylevel.

performance in the classroom,” said Heard “Wehad123studentsearn academic all-district honors this year, and 31 who earned academic allstatehonors.” Heard also noted that the district had 33 student athletes who have committed to pursuing their athletic endeavors at the collegiate level next year

The dollar amount be released, vowed to continue pr j c s h th and astheycome the progress school the2022bond h r u s e the ongoing to d a t o b ‘Music month tradition f la y ic

are to begin renovations tg High ho l, a d o rd President Laurie Turner “These will

“Weareveryexcitedto begin these renovations at Montgomery High School, ” said Board President Laurie Turner “These improvements will

“ W h i e w r incredibly proud a h e em n of h student athletes p i e n ur programs, we proud to share their

“ W h i l e w e a r e incredibly proud of the achievements of the student athletes who participate in our o programs, we are equally proud to share about their

T h e t r u s t e e s recognized the district’s ongoing bond to music e d u c a t i o n , b y acknowledging ‘Music In Our Schools’ month MISDhasaproudtradition of exemplary music

b

day

Parents and guardians a fun, educational way children to summer options at Sam

Parents and guardians looking for a fun, educational way for their children to spend the summer can find great summer camp options at Sam HoustonStateUniversity

SHSU School of Music Camps TheSchoolofMusicatSam HoustonStateUniversityoffersa wide variety of summer camps for middle school and high school music students The faculty is comprised of outstanding educators from the publicschools,theSHSUfaculty a n d t o p - l e v e l performer/educators from around the country The camps provide an inspiring and educational experience in a s u p e r v i s e d a n d s a f e environment.

Music Camps of middle high faculty comprised educators from n t o - e v experience in p e r e d a

Campdates:

Campdates: June2-6 JrHighBand Camp June9-12 SingleReed Institute

July 21-24 All-State ChoirCamp

more r e s e r , i s t

For more information or to r e g i s t e r , v i s i t https://wwwshsu edu/academic s/music/camps/.

SHSU Criminal Justice Camps If you have dreams of a career in criminal justice, come getaglimpseoftherealdealina fourdayinpersonsummercamp. Campers will have an opportunity to speak to professionals in the criminal justice field They will also engageinactivitiesthatwillgive them hands-on experience, such as investigating a mock crime sceneandopportunitiestospeak directly to experienced professionals.

Campdates:

June9-13 June

June23-27

July7-11

For more information or to r e g i s t e r , v i s i t https://wwwshsu edu/academic s / c r i m i n a ljustice/events/camp.html.

Bearkat STEM Summer Camp The Department of Engineering Technology will offertwocampsatthesametime June10-14,2024.Onecampwill be focused on automation and roboticsandtheothercampwill be focused on construction and safety These camps will be funded by a Texas Workforce Commissiongrant,andtherewill not be a charge to students who attend However, there is an application and selection process.Highschoolstudentsare encouraged to apply and the department will update the websiteastheapplicationcloses and applications are evaluated. The application link is coming soonandwillbereadyinthenext two weeks. The handbook will alsobeupdated.

Campdates:

June10-14

June10-14 June

For more e g r , s https://wwwshsu edu/academic s r i m n a l STEM Department of will be automation be focused on safety These camps will by Texas Workforce be charge students attend However, is update two The alsobeupdated.

For more e g r v s https://wwwshsu edu/academic s / e n g i i n g h n o l o g y

For more information or to r e g i s t e r v i s i t https://wwwshsu edu/academic s / e n g i n e e r i n gt e c h n o l o g y / s u m m e rcamps/index.

College of Health Sciences SummerCamp

ChoirCamp in an opportunity speak to criminal will also engageinactivitiesthatwillgive such investigating a crime sceneandopportunitiestospeak to experienced It

Campdates: of Sciences SummerCamp

The College of Health Sciences at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is pleased to offer it's Health Sciences Summer Camp, a three-day educational camp for junior and senior high school students interested in health sciences and related fields. Participants will enjoy hands-on and engaging learning experiences interact withprofessionalsfromavariety of disciplines, and spend time with SHSU students. The camp isdesignedtoexposestudentsto a diverse set of professions throughout the health sciences andrelatedfields.

The Sciences at Sam Houston (SHSU) is pleased to offer it's Camp, a three-day educational camp for junior high school interested in Participants hands-on and engaging time with SHSU health sciences

Campdates:

Campdates:

July16-18

July16-18

For more information or to r e g i s t e r v i s i t

https://wwwshsu edu/academic s/health-sciences/cohs-summercamp/summer-camp.

earlier this month amongst the flags as they danced in the wind, as members of the Conroe Service League conducted

a ceremony to dedicate a bench at the Montgomery CountyVeteransMemorial ParkinConroe. Theevent

Commission Chairman JudgeJimmieC.Edwards;

contributing writer

Park

Sports Community

RebelJoanofARC=Boldestand GrandestatDistrict111Meeting

Submitted by: RJOA by:

Chairman of Public Relations:

Submitted Ch i m n o P l c Relations:

Elaine Collings, ehcollings@gmail.com

2721 of D g ter Confederacy attended in their grand style elegance at their District 111 This year it was in Texas Nine make District and but OF members highest members

The

The Chapter did lovely Meeting,andseveralTexas Division Officers, Past-General in Texas Division President of the United Confederacy RUBEL also attendance and traveled many miles to be with District 111. It honor to have

in attendance and traveled many miles to be with District 111. It was our honor to have her with us.

Texas

Texas Division President

RUBEL Member REBEL J O A CHAPTER.

RUBEL is the Honorary Member of the REBEL J O A N O F A R C CHAPTER.

Chairman TXUDCConfederate A c s o B

Division Chairman of the NewTXUDCConfederate A n c e s t o r s B o o

: K A T H E R I N E

TAGLIENTI of the Rebel Joan Of Arc Chapter gave an inspirational message about this wonderful Book being developed WE CAN’T WAIT! Texas Division Chairman of Public Relations: JENNY

LEHRoftheRebelJoanOf A r c C h a p t e r w a s introduced. Texas Division Chairman of the Presidents Pin Project: ELAINE

COLLINGS of the Rebel Joan Of Arc Chapter gave an exciting report that all Pins are Sold Out, and the last Donation Presentation madewasattheTexasCivil WarMuseuminFortWorth by TX Division President LOUANNRUBEL.

RJOA President JENNY LEHR gave her Chapter’s Successes in her Report, and introduced the RJOA 3 Prospective Members in Attendance: CHRISSY BARTON, KELLY HALL, and KARENJACOBS!

LADIES! awarded d a w i n n d A R My, Lucky O r i e t LEHR her Chapter’s her 3 in Attendance: HR A KELLY HA nd

The Slate of District 111 Officers 20242026 Joan OfArc MILLER will District 111 T r e u r CONGRATULATIONS EVELYN!

The new Slate of District 111 Officers 20242026wasVoted.RebelJoan OfArc EVELYN MILLER will serve as District 111 T r e a s u r e r CONGRATULATIONS EVELYN!

Joan Arc donated Texas Wreath Silent Auction and All wasconducted.

The Texas Division in attendance were introduced:

The Texas Division Chairmen in attendance were introduced: Texas

MISD

from page 1

TheAnnualDistrict111 Memorial was held, and R J O A C H A RT E R MEMBER CHARLENE KEBODEAUX MotherIn-Law of DIANNE KEBODEAUX was amongst several who were memorialized and remembered.

Rebel Joan Of Arc donatedaverylovelyTexas Wreath to the Silent AuctionTableand

LYN HOWARD of the Rebel Joan OfArc Chapter won it back! RJOA

won beautiful TAGLIENTI won lovely SpaBasket,and u

DANEAN MYERS won thebeautifulTexasRangers Cross.RJOAKATHERINE TAGLIENTI won a lovely SpaBasket,andsecondlya Basket of decorated tea c u p s CONGRATULATIONS

LADIES! Then the Door Prizes were awarded by d r a w i n g s a n d CONGRATULATIONS to RJOA S: KATHERINE TAGLIENTI DANEAN

M Y E R S , K A R E N JACOBS, AND KELLY HALL! My, My, My,

Flag

from page 1

ALL These lovely Lucky Ladies!

programs across all secondary campuses, and they heard a performance from the newly formed Men s A capella group from Montgomery High School,underthedirection of Heather Orr and Emma Cockerham.

pro s a ro s l secondary campuses, and they heard performance from the formed Men A group from Montgomery High School,underthedirection of and Emma Cockerham.

Moons from Lake Creek HS. MISD beenmaking in m o r a c a d e i c in possible career choices the 2024-25 school year students will be relevant to re s t while

MISDhasbeenmaking strides in giving students m o r e a c a d e m i c alternatives in regards to possible career choices for the 2024-25 school year They are adding courses available to students that will be relevant to their interests and postgraduationgoalswhilealso

changingtechnologies.

changingtechnologies.

“One area have worked in MISD i he mast r scheduling the secondarylevel,”saidAmy Busby, then interim MISD Superintendent, in fall press Starting this year a lows s de ts a d families to ahead in of their

“One area we have worked to improve in worked MISD is the master scheduling process at the secondarylevel,”saidAmy Busby, then interim MISD Superintendent, in a fall press release Starting this process for next year allows students and s families to start thinking ahead in terms of their

TrusteesposewiththenewlyformedMen’sAcapellagroupfromMontgomery HighSchool,underthedirectionofHeatherOrrandEmmaCockerham

Inaddition,thetrustees acknowledge ‘Career & Technical Education’ month, where board members recognized students from the district’s Robotics Programs, along withtheirsponsorsRussell Reid from MHS, and Eric

providing an expanded opportunity to meet a variety of academic needs.

Artificial Intelligence, American Sign Language, Interpersonal Studies (Faith and Community S e r v i c e s ) , M u s i c Appreciation (starting at 6thgrade),arejustthestart. New course pathways into C o n s t r u c t i o n Transportation Systems, Automotive technology Welding, and Oil & Gas Production, are all coming on-line to give MISD to s t u d e n t s b e t t e r opportunities for more technical fields than ever before.

Sign Language, Studies and r c s ) M u i justthe course pathways o s t r u t o , Transportation technology and Oil & Production, all give MISD t d n t s e t r opportunities for fields MISD building students in d v n t g e f t h make them accessible for devotedto ff r nc world of t u r e A n d t h e n i n s f will be there in time to students be for the next in

MISD is building a program that students will be interested in taking a d v a n t a g e o f t h e educational resources and make them accessible for studentsdevotedtomaking a difference in the technological world of the f u t u r e A n d t h e r e n o v a t i o n s o f Montgomery High School will be there in time to see successful students be ready for the next step in theiracademiccareers.

General who the ceremony i p y r; CS Lindsay Smith, and mem ers of er as as thepublic.

Retired Marine Corps Lt. General Steven Hummer, who opened the ceremony with a prayer; CSL President Lindsay Smith, and members of her organization, as well as membersofthepublic.

“It is an honor for the Conroe Service League to becomepartofthefamily,” said MCVMC Executive Director Elizabeth Woods, asshethankedtheCSLforCSL their generous gift to the park. “We not only honor our Veterans, but our First Responders, which makes our park unique amongst othersacrossthenation.”

TheVeteransMemorial Commission the cont ib supporting Veterans the areworking diligently to park,education and museum one

Ruben reached trustees acknowledge & Technical Education’ m nth wh r b rd members recognized students district’s Robotics Programs, along with sponsorsRussell Reid Eric from

The initiative was launched last fall, as a routine review of improving academic opportunities for students to remain pertinent to ever

providing an to meet of h in ti t ve a fall, rou i e r view o p o i g a mi for to pertinent to ever

desired courses and also p r o v i d e s c a m p u s leadership teams with the ability to start planning ahead as it relates to looking at staffing and other items to meet the needsofourstudents.”

desired courses and also o i e m p u s teams with the ability to planning it to looking staffing and to meet the needsofour

Ruben can be reached a t : ruben@montgomerycount ynews.net

By denoting their organization on a bench, the CSL is showing their appreciation to the flag park, the memories of the Veterans who have served, as well as for those who have passed on; and in on; addition providing an outlet for Veterans and their family members to come and sit down, and reminisce in the memories of their battle buddies, friends,orrelatives.

The new education and commission being built on site, will eventually be history, stories our brave S and F r Responders, those paramounttotheirmission.

TheVeteransMemorial Commission appreciated the contribution to supporting Veterans and thepark. Theyareworking diligently to provide a park,educationcenter and museumallinonelocation. The new education center and commission offices being built on site, will eventually be preserving history, and sharing the stories behind our brave Soldiers and FirstResponders, and honoring those great individuals is paramounttotheirmission.

Courses entailing

Courses e t iling

“Several of our members suggested that we raise funds, and dedicated it to the park in the form of a dedicated bench.”saidCSLPresident Lindsay Smith “The Conroe Service League was a big part of making the original 1976 Veterans MemorialParkdowntown, and today’s ceremony was awayofgivingbacktothe Veteransandthecitizensof MontgomeryCounty.”

y no i g t eir organization on a bench, the is showing their appreciation the park, the memories of the Veterans as for have passed and addition outlet and their members come reminisce in the memories of their battle friends, S ve al members suggested w se fu ds, an dedicated it to the in the form of bench.” CSL Lindsay Smith Conroe was a of the 1976 Memorial downtown, and awayofgiving tothe Veteransand Montgomery

“The Conroe Service League is a great organizationandthethings they do for the community is impressive,” said retired Lt Gen Hummer “And weappreciatetheirservice in providing Veterans breakfast at The Lone Star Honor Flight Veterans Group near Thanksgiving, Christmas, and on other occasions.”

The CSL’s mission statement reads: “The mission of the Conroe Service League is and always will be to provide organized service opportunities for the w o m e n s e r v i n g MontgomeryCountyinthe areasofeducation,cultural arts health and welfare and to effectively use the workoftheLeagueforthe betterment of the community..”

L g e is a g organizationandthe they the is impressive,” said Lt “And weappreciate in breakfast at The Lone Honor Group Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other occasions.” mission statement mission Conroe Service League always to or v opportunities the w e s v Montgomery the areasofeducation, arts and and to effectively work the for b r f h community..”

“This is amazing and so tobea all of this,” said CSL Mary Womack in the believethis to sit an for the Service to partofthe said Executive she CSLfor gift to the park. our but our First which our park thenation.”

“This is amazing and wearesoproudtobeapart of all of this,” said CSL member Mary Womack in reference to the bench dedication.“Ibelievethisa beautiful place to just sit andremember.”

TopRow:DarlaSharer,DianneKebodeaux,KellyHall,KarenJacobs,EvelynMiller,ChrissyBarton. FrontRowof RJOAOfficers:LynHoward,DaneanMyers,TXDiv.Pres:LouannRubel,JennyLehr,KatherineTaglienti,andElaine Lyn Collings. Lehr,

Review how six major lifeeventscanimpactyour federalreturn.

Review how six major life impactyour federal

Legislation and life –two things guaranteed to change federal tax situation. Here a few major milestones you'll needto taxproand your about soon aspossible.Theformercan find youqualifyfor and dig deductions, while can help you come up with flexible solutions like of credit, to pay unexpected tax from the IRS.

of household. your divorce is 2024, then you'd file as married single or filing jointly for 2023eventhoughyou'llbe divorced tax Dependents can only be one of you; have two each spouse could one, for example. If an odd number of childrenorcan'tagree to claim dependents, the tends to favor the custodialparent.Plus,only the parent claimthechildtaxcredit. TAX

You

Yousay

For

For married couples, filing jointly tends to yield lower taxes and higher deductions,but always.

you use to file matches your Social Security card and updateyourW-4s.

Make sure the name you use to file matches Social and updateyourW-4s.

The

'That'sawriteoff!'

It'saphraseIcommonly hear thrown around. But, notsofast...itturnsoutnot allhomeimprovementsare treated equally from a tax perspective.

Let'sbreakitdown:

1) Home Office

Deduction:

To claim a deduction, you must have a dedicated and exclusive workspace. Using your dining table unfortunately doesn't qualifyhere.

2)RentalProperties:

When updating rental properties, you won't be able to deduct the renovationcosts.

come with a bundle of tax breaks for qualifying care costs, educationandthechildtax credit. Single parents can file as head of household, which offers better tax ratesandahigherstandard deduction New parents maywanttoconsidera529

You welcome a –whetheradopted, step foster children – come with bundle of tax breaks for qualifying care costs, educationandthechildtax credit. Single parents can file as head of which offers better tax andahigher New parents may toconsidera

But expenses like mortgageinterest,property tax operating costs depreciation, and repairs are usually eligible deductions to take. Keep a running tally of these expenses.

3) Residential Medical Upgrades:

Expenses related to improving medical accessibility are deduct- are ible This includes constructing entrance or exit ramps, widening doorways, installing railings or support bars, and making bathroom modifications.

4) Energy-Efficient Improvements:

Consider energyefficient upgrades. Things likeinstallingsolarpanels, solar water heaters, small wind energy turbines, geothermal heat pumps, fuelcells,andbiomassfuel stoves qualify for various taxbenefits.

college-savings plan as well; savings grow taxdeferred and many states offerdeductionsorcredits.

college-savings plan as well; savings grow taxdeferred many states offerdeductionsorcredits.

Youupsizeordownsize

Ahousepurchaseopens up potential deductions on paid points, mortgage interest and property taxes if you itemize In some cases, there are credits or deductions for home improvementsandenergyefficient upgrades Selling?Ifyoumeetcertain conditions, you may y exclude the first $250,000 of gain from the sale of your home from your income and avoid paying taxesonit.Theexclusionis increasedto$500,000fora married couple filing jointly

Youupsizeor Ahousepurchaseopens up potential deductions on paid points, mortgage interest and property taxes if you itemize In some cases, there credits or deductions for home improvementsandenergyeffici nt upgr des Selling?Ifyoumeetcertain conditions, ou may exclude first $250,000 of from the sale of your from your income and avoid paying taxesonit.Theexclusionis increasedto$500,000fora married couple filing jointly

Youlosealovedone

Youlosealovedone

Thedearlydepartedstill needsomeonetofileafinal tax return (perhaps also an estate tax return) on their behalf. Money left to heirs generally is income-tax- generally free at the federal level, with the exception of

Thedearly still needsomeonetofileafinal tax return (perhaps also an estate return) on their behalf. Money left to heirs income-taxthe federal level, the exception of

5) Home Sellers

Deduction:

If you make improvementstoyourhomebefore sellingit,theycanincrease your home's basis (purchase price + improvements), reducing capital gainsand,inturn,lowering the taxes you'll owe. Keep a running spreadsheet of thoseimprovements!

Make sure to collaborate with a tax pro to maximizeyourdeductions.

Source: Which Home Improvements Are Tax Deductible?

Tips on Rental Real EstateIncome,Deductions and Recordkeeping | InternalRevenueService

-MeganStultz

Call or Text 936-5372587

Megan@MeganStultz .com

www.FairwaterWest Expenses

www.FairwaterWest mont.com

money withdrawn from an inherited IRA or 401(k) plan account (distributions from qualified accounts havetheirownrules).

money withdrawn from an inherited IRA or 401(k) plan account (distributions from qualified accounts havetheirownrules).

Heirs

Heirs may also have to pay taxes on gains earned after selling bequeathed after stocks and other property

Whenyouinheritproperty, you get the benefit of what'scalleda“stepped-up basis,”whichmeansifyou sell the asset, you'll be taxedonlyonthegainsince the deceased's date of death,notthegainfromthe originalpurchaseprice.

Note: Surviving spousesmaystillbeableto file jointly up to two years afterward, provided they haven'tremarriedandmeet theotherrequirements.

Yourjobchanges

New gig? Rethink your W-4 Lose an old one? Unemployment benefits are taxable. Promoted? A raise may mean a higher mean taxbracketandachanceto adjust your withholdings, as well as dial up your

New your W-4 Lose an old one? Unemployment benefits are taxable. A raise a higher taxbracketandachanceto adjust your withholdings, as as dial up your

contributions to taxadvantaged retirement accounts Double-check that the higher income didn't phase you out of Roth contributions or out of the ability to deduct contributions to a traditional IRA, which changes based on your modified adjusted gross income Retiring? Distributions fromqualifiedaccountsare taxable, so talk to your finance professionals before you make any distributiondecisions.

to Double-check the higher income didn't phase you out of Roth of the to deduct contributions to a IRA, which based on your gross income Retiring? from accounts talk to your professionals you any decisions.

Pendle Hill Advisors is proud to contribute to the Montgomery County News with our weekly curatedfinancialnewsand topics If you have any you questions about the markets your financial plan, or anything, please feelfreetoreachouttoour office for a no cost initial consultation.

Kent Pendleton, AAMS® Financial Advisor, RJFS

This

Ruben Borjas Jr, Columnist

Ruben’s Montgomery Musings

the Texas-Mexico with the first illegal alien surge Texas Army National Guard troops in El Paso recently, and as w r e r w a t h r approaches, the likelihood ofithappeningmoreduring

the Summer in possibility Illegal immigrants barriers gain entry and matteroftime illegal will be armed and shooting atTARNG. It’s theTexassoldiers threatened lossof is a distinct willbeagame

I continue to ask

I continue to ask

It’s getting scary at the Texas-Mexico border with the first recorded illegal alien surge on Texas Army National Guard troops in El Paso recently, and as w a r m e r w e a t h e r approaches, the likelihood ofithappeningmoreduring the Summer in an ever increasing possibility Illegal immigrants broke down barriers to gain entry, andit’sjustamatteroftime until the illegal immigrants will be armed and shooting atTARNG. It’sgettingreal, andtheTexassoldiersbeing threatenedwithlossoflifeis a distinct possibility and it willbeagamechanger be

Weather for the Lake Conroe area

Wednesday

Aslightchanceofshowersbetween1pmand 4pm,thenaslightchanceofshowersand thunderstormsafter4pm.Partlysunny,witha highnear68.Northeastwindaround5mph becomingnorthwestintheafternoon.Chance ofprecipitationis20%.

WednesdayNight

Aslightchanceofshowersandthunderstorms before10pm,thenaslightchanceofshowers between10pmand1am.Mostlycloudy,then graduallybecomingclear,withalowaround 51.Northwestwindaround5mphbecoming calmaftermidnight.Chanceofprecipitation is20%.

Thursday

Sunny,withahighnear73.Calmwind becomingsoutharound5mphinthemorning.

ThursdayNight

Mostlyclear,withalowaround54.

Friday

Sunny,withahighnear74.

FridayNight

Partlycloudy,withalowaround59.

Saturday

Mostlysunny,withahighnear78.

SaturdayNight

Partlycloudy,withalowaround63.

Sunday

Partlysunny,withahighnear79.

SundayNight

Mostlycloudy,withalowaround68.

Monday

Partlysunny,withahighnear83.

Phone(936)449-6397Fax(936)597-6395

Democ ats why t ey continue sanctuary city and policies. ideals have them bankrupting themselves, for illegal who they wish to turn into future Dem voters. It’s so importanttoDemocratsthat they have thrown Blacks under the bus, as Hispanics abort themselvesthatmuch.

Democrats why they continue to support insane sanctuary city and state policies. Their ideals have them bankrupting themselves, all for illegal aliens who they wish to turn into future Dem voters. It’s so importanttoDemocratsthat they have thrown Blacks under the bus, seeing as Hispanics don’t abort themselvesthatmuch.

This year worst ever as far as border California,Arizona, andNewMexicodon’thave Texashasin its borders IllegalAliens will where the are handed candy, and cities and just ituponthemselves. with illegal aliens thinking that when they get there, they will stay here. might this election.

This year could be the worst ever as far as illegals coming across the US border California,Arizona, andNewMexicodon’thave theresolvethatTexashasin protecting its borders IllegalAliens will go where the benefits are handed out like candy, and sanctuary cities and states are just bringingituponthemselves. And with illegal aliens thinking that when they get there, they will stay here. They might have another thing coming after this election.

This is all about good A trained eye see Recent y, an Obama Judge in dropped charges against an illegal immigrant possessing a firearm, which he a simplythrew Title clearly handles matters, laughable. They want to guns handsof legalAmericangunowners,

This is all about making the illegals good little Democrats. A trained eye can see right through it. Recently, an Obama appointed Judge in Illinois, Sharon Coleman, dropped charges against an illegal immigrant for illegally possessing a firearm, which he purchased illegally. Coleman, a worthless Democrat,simplythrewout Title 18 of the U.S. Code, which clearly handles such matters, and made her own law Democrats are laughable. They want to takegunsoutofthehandsof legalAmericangunowners,

yet when it comes to illegal aliens; it’s for them to haveguns?

yet when it comes to illegal aliens; it’s OK for them to haveguns?

Another worthless Democrat Governor Jay Inslee of Washington State, justsignedalawthatallows illegal immigrants to get professional licenses in his state. Which leaves all kinds of legal implications open for that stupid move.

I’ve always maintained Democrats think not of the consequences to their actions, and they don’t Look at their previous sanctuary city policy virtue signaling, and when someone took them up on theirpledgetoacceptillegal aliens,likewhenTexasGov Greg Abbott called their bluff. TheDemsthrowfits, and now have their legal citizens hating them Mayors like Brandon Johnson of Chicago, and Eric Adams of New York, are holding firm in their investmentsofthehomeless industrialcomplex;ofwhich illegals have cornered the market.

the worthle s Democrat, Governor Jay Inslee of State, justsignedalawthatallows illegal immigrants to get professional licenses in his state. Which all kinds of legal implications open for that move. I’ve maintained Democrats think of the consequences to their actions, they don’t Look their previous sanctuary city policy virtue s gnal ng, and en someone took on theirpledge illegal aliens,likewhenTexasGov Greg called their bluff. TheDemsthrowfits, and now have their legal citizens hating them Mayors like Brandon Johnson of Chicago, and Eric York, are their investments thehomeless industrial ofwhich illegals have cornered the market.

we’re running of fingers. If it breaks, is at ifitisn’talready

and we’re running out of fingers. If it breaks, then Montgomery County is at risk,ifitisn’talready

In acityof700K, Mayor Mike Johnston is cutting services to pay for the migrant crisis, which save million off their $180 millionbudget servicethe illegal The main hospitalDenver Health is $130 in the red thanks to treatments illegals receivedinthepastyear,and it’son verge

InDenver acityof700K, Mayor Mike Johnston is cutting back city services to pay for the migrant crisis, which will save 60 million off of their projected $180 millionbudgettoservicethe illegal immigrants. The mainpublichospitalDenver Health is $130 in the red thanks to treatments illegals receivedinthepastyear,and it’sonthevergeofcollapse.

The e i o ch craziness out there. The dikethatisholdingcommon sense has holes,

There is so much craziness out there. The dikethatisholdingcommon sense back has many holes,

statedbeforethatthe we are living through nowis be the 1968 e o at c t o a Convention all over guess be year sameplace backthen,Chicago. I’ve doubtthe craziness that erupted there in in the as that will so this

RubenBorjasJr

I’vestatedbeforethatthe Era we are living through nowisour1960s. Thisyear is gonna be the 1968 Democratic National Convention all over again, and guess where it’s gonna bethisyear Thesameplace asbackthen,Chicago. I’ve nodoubtthesamecraziness that erupted there in 1968, will be prevalent in the city this time around as well. Republicans won that year, and it will be so again this time. Themedialandscapehas changed so much thanks to Donald Trump and Elon Musk, that the outright lies and mistruths coming from socialist media don’t have the power they did have in 2020. BigTechisashellof its former self, so is Big Media and University TheireffortstoturnAmerica

into a one-party communist state have sunk their own institutions And they couldn’t foresee it. The underlings in those institutionsnowfiredorlaid off are wondering what happened after they got rid of Donald Trump? A socialist utopia was to develop. But what they forgotisthatsocialismtakes capitalists money And when it's not forthcoming, theylose.

Soit'stimetobuckupand prepare yourself for the rest of the year There may be times when it's gonna get hairy but be assured that therearemanyouttherethat are fed up with worthless Democrat policies that have harmed their communities and families. We will right our left listing ship. We havetoo. IftheU.S.doesn’t lead The World, then it is lost. Hanginthere. Wewill getthroughthisstorm.

Soit'stime buckup prepare yourself for the rest the year There may be times when it's gonna get hairy, but be assured that thereare there are fed with worthless policies have and We will right listing ship. We havetoo. IftheU.S.doesn’t lead World, then lost. Hanginthere. Wewill getthroughthisstorm.

Themedialandscapehas so thanks Elon Musk, the outright coming from media the power did have in BigTechisa of its former self, so is Big Media and University turnAmerica into communist have their And they foresee l n in th now or wondering what happened they got of Donald A utopia was to develop. what they forgotis capitalists money it's lose.

A Sip and A Thought: Bar & Vines' 'Smoky Old Fashioned’

bourbon allowing for everything to go down smooth, with the tail end revealing the taste of the orange and cherry doing theirfruitypartstotheend.

E-mail:news@montgomerycountynews.net web; http://www.montgomerycountynews.net

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Reporters/Contributing Writers: Ruben Borjas Jr, Pat Spackey, Eva Raines, Diana Anderson,GailBox, KimWest,MeganWest Stultz Students and Staff of MISD, and friendsofMontgomeryCountyNews. Montgomery

AssistantEditor:JamieSandefer Montgomery

©Copyrights, Montgomery County News, Montgomery,Texas2017-2023

I wasn’t planning on reviewing anything that day butIstoppedintosee my friend Rollis Johnson over at Slice of Amish in HistoricMontgomery;and thenextthingIknowIwas invited to a birthday party at Bar & Vines (right next door), for owner Harold Vines. I then went to say ‘Hi!’ to my friend Holly who bartends there, and she bum rushed me “Ruben, Ruben, you gotta try the Smokey Old Fashioned.’” I looked at myself, unshaven and not properlyattiredtohandlea smoked drink. It was around 2:15pm, and the surprisepartywasat6that evening. So I headed home to clean up, check some email, and do a little writing,beforeIwasback.

I arrived ahead of the unscrupulous ploy to get Haroldtothebar Isatnext to a former Ohio couple, Bob and Pam Petro, who looked familiar, and it turnsoutwesaweachother atanothervenueIrecently reviewed The chief bartender, Michelle Marciano, crafted the drink, which was wrapped in the smolder of this scientific looking glass cloche I half way expected to see Michelle donned in a lab coat and protective glasses when shepresentedittome.

I couldn’t even see the drink until the glass rose revealing a smokey cauldron of premium bourbon, three bitters, an orange peel, a premium cherry; all in a beautifully twisted crystalline whiskey glass Quite frankly, it was a work of art.

Bar & Vines caters to the more substantive crowd. And rightly so. ThestockB&Vmaintains

wouldwalkoutonstrikeif placed on lesser shelves. Their Smokey Old Fashionedisdesignedfora refined palate. A palate that has seen things, did things, risked things, and now enjoys the better things in life. It’s an ‘Old Fashioned’ liquid offering to the God’s that deserves to be praised in a higher way The smoke is a modern invention that takes it to another level, and adds another layer of flavor, of earthiness, or of The North Woods as somemaysay

Once you rescue the SOF from its smokey tomb, I’d advise just to look at. Take your time with this masterpiece Thinkofitasamarination period. Lettheorangepeel get to know the bourbon, the bitters, and the must have Luxardo cherry You’ll thank me later Go aheadandgetthescoopon what’s been happening at the tennis or pickleball courts. And find that cherry and crush it. You don’t want to miss out on

theintensityofaflavorthat couldhavebeenenhanced.

B & V allows you to choose your bourbon, and the flavor of your wood smoke. The bourbon’s strong, earthy flavor, pairs nicelywiththesmokefrom the wood chips. I chose Blanton's Private Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon Anything with a racehorse cap, I’m partial to. I also chose the cherry wood chips. Some recipes call forasugarcube,butB&Vs doesn’t, which is why I crushedthecherrytoallow the natural sugars to balance out the smoky flavor The fresh orange peel allows for the release ofthearomaticoils,which heightens the intensity of the cocktail. To start off without the aromatics is unthinkable. Which is whyIcalledforaceasefire before engaging with the SOF Andonceyoutakeyour first sip, let it pool on the tongue for a few seconds. You’ll find as it rolls off, you can taste how the bitters play off the

The Bar & Vines atmosphere is inviting Evenduringtheslowparts of the day you’ll catch friends in for a glass of wineandaquietchat. The staff is great. Michelle, Holly,andToriarethereto take your orders, to make yourvisitasmemorableas possible. The walls are adorned with pictures of famous country singers, ‘Come and Take It’ paraphernalia rodeo posters,oilcompanysigns, Texas flags, including one madeofwinecorks. There are a few American flags, and a ‘Howdy’ sign from the Brazo Valley uni-town uptheroad.

The Smokey Old Fashioned is very sophisticated. It has a smokey complexity and savorocitytoit,andit’sthe 21stCenturyrebirthofthe classic hundreds year old cocktail. It’sbeenhonored on the big and small screens,aswellasinsong. AndIknowit'sgonnahave a starring role with you when you are sitting, chatting,andhavingfunat Bar & Vines in Historic Montgomery Bar&Vinesislocatedat 401 College Street. Their w e b s i t e i s :

Alcohol Disclaimer: This column is intended forentertainmentpurposes only Please drink responsibly not just for yourself, but for others aroundyou.

This column may upset some, and make some see the light, but it neededtobewritten.

I have always said that taking a

ways necessary Sometimesaroadtriptonotso crowded and out of the way places closer to home can be as entertaining and enjoyable aswell.

Agreatplacetolearnabout those famous names and the history of Port Arthur and surrounding areas is at the Museum of the Gulf Coast. TheMuseumtellstheexciting story of the Texas/Louisiana Gulf Coast region, beginning with local paleontology and detailing some ofTexas's rich history Permanent exhibits include a section on Native Americans,Europeancontact, the Civil War, economic and culturalgrowth,thepetroleum industry and the maritime historyoftheregion.Muchof the Museum's second floor is dedicated to the many internationally-recognized musicians and athletes –Jimmy Johnson, Janis Joplin, Babe Zaharias The Big Bopper,etc–whocalltheGulf Coast home The museum had hands on activities like digging for fossils and interactivetouchscreenkiosks thatgivesdetailedinformation about each subject The Museum's 39,000 square foot facility contains many exhibits which capture the essenceoflifealongtheUpper GulfCoast.Visitorsmarvelat the 125-foot mural depicting the area's history from the prehistoric era to the discoveryofoilatSpindletop. For those who love the outdoors, Port Arthur is for you. Fromfishingtobirding, orjustastrolldownthebeach,

there is plenty for everyone.

Sea Rim State Park is located on the southern coast and has drive-on beaches which some seem to enjoy Fishing from the beaches, collecting seashellsorwalkingthemilelong boardwalk searching for different birds, there is something for the whole family They also have camping spots available on and off the beach. On the inlandside,theyhavemarshes and kayak rentals, with great spots for exploring and fishing.Andforthosewhoare adventurous, they have floating campsites that you can stay overnight in the marshes. RightnearSeaRim is the McFadden Wildlife Refugewhichoffers5milesof interiorroadsprovidewildlife viewing and access to boat ramps, fishing piers and observation platforms, it is a natureloversparadise.

Port Arthur s Pleasure Island is an 18.5 mile long man-made body of land that extendsfromthemouthofthe NechesRiveronthenorthwest side, to the Sabine Causeway on the

Asforthefood,PortArthur isknownastheCajunCapital of Texas There are many restaurants in and around the Beaumont area, but we will mention our 3 favorites. If you are hungry for a great burger Daddio'sistheplaceto gowithover20differenttypes of burgers! They also have chicken, hotdogs, salads, and more Another grea

CornerstoneChristian AssemblyofGodof Conroe,locatedat100 MosswoodDr.,Conroe, TexasinfrontofRiver Plantation.936-273-1755

Phone:PastorBear936 448-4027

GaryChapelBaptist Church

BenuiBaptistChurch,

ScottRidgeandFM 1097,Montgomery

AntiochBaptist, Dobbin,936-597-5560

ChinaGroveBaptist Church,Willis,936-7674744

DacusBaptist,Dacus,

936-449-0845 dacuschurch@gmail.com, dacusbaptist@consolidated.n etwww.dacusbaptist.org

FirstBaptistChurch, Hwy105W.,Montgomery,936-597-4230

HoneaBaptistChurch,

FM2854,Montgomery, 936-588-1260

MontgomeryUnited MethodistChurch

If

SundayMorningBible Study9:30a.m.Worship Service10:45a.m.

112,Montgomery, 77356

Montgomery TX77316

Admin@TCMontgomery

We want to thank Darragh at the PortArthur Convention &VisitorsBureauforinviting and hosting us And as always, we stayed at a Hilton property, the Hampton Inns andSuitesonMemorialBlvd. A beautiful property which upgradedustoasuitethatwas nice and spacious for our 2 nights in Port Arthur The hotel is centrally located and close to everything you will wanttoexperience. Hampton Inns offer complimentary breakfast every day If you want to get away from the busyandcrazybutstillwantto enjoygreatfood,beaches,and outdoorsyactivities,visitPort Arthur(visitportarthurtx.com) Youcancallusat777Travel, 281-541-1301 and we can help you find the best activities and lodging that suitsyourneeds.

On a side note, do not be alarmed as you drive to Sea Rim Park and Sabine Pass, youwillpassthroughmultiple refineries and shipping ports. That is what keeps the area thriving. And don't forget to fill up with fuel before you headdownastherearenogas stations down in the area of SabinePassandthecoast.

Worship

JonesChapelBaptist, Mt.CalvaryBaptist

FM2854,936-756-2505

OldHwy105,936-5882330

936.582.7722

THESTATEOFTEXAS

COUNTYOFMONTGOMERY

ByvirtueofanOrderofSaleissuedoutoftheHonorable284thJUDICIALDISTRICTCOURTof MONTGOMERYCounty Texas;Cause#220913029CVinaJudgementrenderedonthe14thdayof February, 2023, where as in Style GLEN OAKS/ GRAND OAKS HOMEOWNERS ASSOC/A TION,INC.,PlaintiffagainstDeannaHighsmith,Defendant.Ididlevyonthe28thdayofFebruary, 2024at12:20o'clockp.m.uponthefollowingdescribed"property"ofDefendant:

LotTwo(2),inBlockOne(1),ofGLENOAKS,SECTIONONE(1),asubdivisionof23.92Acres ofLandintheCyrusT WardSurvey,A-612,MontgomeryCounty,Texas,accordingtothemap orplat thereof recorded in CabinetV, Sheets 76 and 77, of the Map Records of Montgomery County,Texas.

Andonthe2nddayofApril,2024,at10:00o'clocka.m.;whichisthefirstTuesdayofsaidmonth,on theCourthouseStepslocatedat301NMainStreet,Conroe,Texas77301ofsaidMONTGOMERY County TexasintheCityofCONROE;Iwillproceedtosellatthetimeofthepublicauctionforcash, alltherights,titleandinterestofDeannaHighsmith,Defendantinandtosaidproperty,representing interestand

ofsuit,togetherwithlegalfeesandcommissionsthroughthedateofjudgment,plus allcostsofcourt,

ofsale,andpostjudgmentpenaltiesandinterestrecoverablebylawinfavorof GLENOAKS/GRANOOAKSHOMEOWNERSASSOC/AT/ON,INC.

ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY

TAXCODE.

GIVEN

KENNAM.

L.BRANDONSTEINMANN

GIVEN

th

By:

By:

th

Determine who the heirs and only heirs of the decedent are and their respective sharesandinterestsinthisestate;thatnoappraisersbeappointed;andforallother relieftowhichapplicantmaybeentitled.

CountyClerk

(SEAL,ProbateCourt#1) L.

/s/KiarraFlores

PublishedDate:March27,2024

byRubenBorjasJr

This week’s Veteran is Bryan Evans, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1979 - 1992. He was recently at the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park for a ceremony Bryan started out as an Operations Specialist in the Combat InformationCenter(CIC), on his ship which monitoredsurface,sub-surface, and air contacts. On his longcruiseshewouldvisit theFarEastandAustralia.

Bryan also was deployed to South America in

Article by Mark Hooker

Article by Mark

limitthattippedthescales at 17.06 pounds, landing these cousins in 5th place out of 160 Individual Teams.

ment,an8.42-poundtank.

This past weekend the MISD Fishing Team pulled “Double Duty,” by competing in two tournaments. The first one was the Texas High School BassAssociationHouston Division Tournament at Lake Conroe on Saturday the23rd. Thesecondwas the Bass Federation event held on Sam Rayburn Sunday the 24th. Both events saw students from both Montgomery and Lake Creek High Schools having tremendous success.

Following the “Firm” was the Team of Hunter Sumner and Jace Zabiegala This pair broughtinanicelimitof5

Rayburn on Sunday

At Lake Conroe, the Team was able to defend their THSBA Houston Division Crown, by handily defeating the other 20 High Schools in theDivision. Thismarked the program's 9th Divisional Title in 10 years of competing.

Team to defend their THSBA Houston Division handily defeating other theDivision. the sional 10 years competing.

Leadingthechargewas

the“BassFishingFirm”of Scogin & Scogin. Lucas and Brad Scogin brought in an impressive 5 fish 5

17.06 pounds, of Following was the Team of and This 6th

The 3rd Team that did well for MISD were Caden Jendrusch and Harper Heathcott. This pair brought in a 5 fish limit of their own for 14 05 pounds, landing themin12thplace.

well MISD Caden Jendrusch and Harper Heathcott. This pair a 5 fish limit own for 14 pounds, landing themin12thplace.

Fishing in first one was Texas High School Division Tournament at held on Sam the 24th. events saw students Montgomery and Creek High tremendous Unfortunately,

These teams left straight from the weigh in at Conroe and descended up Sam Rayburn with the goalofoneoftheseTeams qualifying to go to the National Championship bywinningthisevent.

Unfortunately, the

All totaled, the top 3 Teams for MISD had a combined weight of 47.92, easily outdistancing their closest competitorbyover4pounds. This victory was the 4th of the Divisional Season and coupled with a 2nd place at Sam Rayburn earlier in the year, earns the Team the THSBA Houston Division ChampionsTitle forthe2023-24campaign.

totaled, top 3 Teams a combined of 47.92, outdistancing their closest competitorbyover4pounds. This victory was the 4th of the Divisional Season and coupled with a 2nd place at Sam in the year, Team the THSBA Houston Division ChampionsTitle forthe2023-24campaign.

place in the event. This pair had an impressive 5 fish limit for over 16 pounds, but this valiant effortwasjustnotenough tosendaTeamtotheTBF Individual National Championship this Summer

Now, comes the “DoubleDuty”partofthis story, as we had 8 teams signed up for the Bass Federation event on Sam

basswhichweighed16.81 pounds, claiming 6th place. Hunteralsocaught the big fish of the tournament,an8.42-poundtank.

Now, comes the “DoubleDuty”partofthis story, we had 8 teams signed up for Bass Federation event Sam

and short, in 2nd

came up just short, landing in 2nd

Rayburn on These teams descended with to Championship bywinningthisevent. and Brad in 5

in the pair 5 but this this Summer Next THSBA Lake there that

Next up for the Team will be the THSBA Regional Championship to be held on Lake on Limestone on April 13th. It will be there that the MISD Fishing Team will will look to capture their 5th RegionalChampionship.

Photos Courtesy of DebbiePietsch

Team of Colton Hatzold and Jett Moore