AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Antonio Jaso Aguilar, 28, to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list, and a cash reward up to $7,500 is now being offered for information leading to his capture. Aguilar is wanted for attempted capital murder and parole violation. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.

Aguilar is a violent fugitive with ties to Shelby County, including the cities of Center and Joaquin. On Nov. 28, 2018, Aguilar allegedly exchanged gunfire with a DPS Trooper following an attempted traffic stop in rural northeast Shelby County. Aguilar fled the scene, and his whereabouts are unknown. Aguilar’s criminal history includes aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm by felon, burglary of a habitation, deadly conduct, evading arrest/detention, obstruction or retaliation, manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and driving while intoxicated.

Aguilar is 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs approximately 180 pounds. He has tattoos on his abdomen, back, chest and both arms, as well as a scar on his neck. For more information or updates in the event of his arrest, see his wanted bulletin.

Texas Crime Stoppers, which is funded by the Governor’s Criminal Justice Division, offers cash rewards to any person who provides information that leads to the arrest of one of the Texas 10 Most Wanted fugitives or sex offenders. So far this year, Texas Crime Stoppers has paid $31,500 in total rewards for anonymous tips that resulted in arrests.

To be eligible for the cash rewards, tipsters MUST provide information to authorities using one of the three following methods:

Call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477).
 

Submit a tip through the DPS website by selecting the fugitive you have information about, and then clicking on the link under their picture.
 

Submit a Facebook tip by clicking the “SUBMIT A TIP” link (under the “About” section).
 

All tips are anonymous – regardless of how they are submitted – and tipsters will be provided a tip number instead of using a name.

DPS investigators work with local law enforcement agencies to select fugitives for the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive and Sex Offender lists. You can find the current lists – with photos – on the DPS website.

Do not attempt to apprehend these fugitives; they are considered armed and dangerous.

The Texas Department of Public Safety and area law enforcement officers continue to search for Antonio Jaso Aguilar. Aguilar is wanted for Attempted Capital Murder of a Peace Officer stemming from an incident that occurred on Wednesday, November 28 in Shelby County, TX.

Aguilar is described as a white Hispanic male, 5’10”, 185 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. He has multiple upper body tattoos and a large tattoo on his upper back. The word "DIRTY" is tattooed vertically down his right forearm and the word "SOUTH is tattooed vertically down his left forearm.

The silver Cadillac SUV Aguilar was driving has been recovered and at this time, his means of transportation are unknown.

Aguilar is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information regarding his location or whereabouts is urged to contact the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office at 936-598-5601.

If anyone is found to be hindering the apprehension, harboring or concealing, providing or aiding with any means of avoiding arrest or effecting an escape, or warns Aguilar of impending discovery or apprehension, will be arrested and charged in accordance to Penal Code 38.05 Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution (F-3).

The San Augustine Main Street HomeComing and Sugar Plums Christmas Parade will be held on Nov. 30, 2018, at 5:30 p.m. 

Parade Rules:
 
Parade entry forms are due by 5 p.m. on November 29, 2018.  
Turn the entry forms in to Texas Star Retail on the square or the City of San Augustine Main Street Office in the county courthouse on the 3rd floor.   (exception Miss Merry Christmas Contestants turn their forms into San Augustine County Chamber of Commerce according to the designated time that the chamber has set up)

All entries must be at Boliver Street by 4:30 p.m. to check in and line up for instructions by parade officials.  (please enter Bolivar Street down by the Senior Center) (call for exceptions 936-201-9798)

All entries must stay in the line until the parade is over.

For the safety of the community, we ask that candy not be thrown.  Downtown Merchant sponsored candy bags distributed by Santa’s Elves along the route.       
Please decorate in a Christmas Holiday theme.   (Winter Wonderland)
Lighted and musical entries encouraged!  

Winter Wonderland ideas:    icicles, snow, snowman, sleds, sleighs, Christmas trees snowflakes, park benches, pole lights, snowcapped gingerbread houses, lights, lights, and more lights!      

Parade route:  

Start at Boliver Street turn right onto Columbia Street and continue straight down taking a left on Montgomery Street and circling past the City Cemetary and taking a left on Harrison Street and back up to the square taking a right onto Columbia Street and down to Bolivar Street.    This is the end of the parade.     

Parade participants can be picked up at the end of the parade route on Bolivar Street.       
Trophy Categories are:

Best Animal Unit  (horses, carriage, K-9, etc)
Best Marching Unit  (military, American Legion, VFW, ROTC, etc.) 
Best Marching Band  (SAISD, other )
Best Commercial Entry  (business advertising, nursing home, etc.)
Best Non-Commercial Float  (churches, Lions Club, Rotary, etc.)
Best Miss Merry Christmas (Queen, Princess, Duchess, other 1 per category)    

In keeping with the holiday tradition, the Grand Marshal will lead the parade at 6 p.m. this Saturday, Dec. 1,2018,  Dr. Jheri-Lynn McSwain, the 2018 Distinguished Service Award recipient is this year's, Grand Marshal. Over 20 floats will make their way through the heart of downtown Center to delight the young and old alike.

Blush Boutique, COR Boutique, Center Floral & Gifts, Hughes Florist, Mooney's Emporium, Payne & Payne Home N'Suchlike, Simply Personal, The Century Shoppe and Vintage Junkie will be holding their Open Houses during the day and many will be open during the parade.

The Rio Theatre will be showing a special Matinee of The Grinch at 3:30.  The box office will open at 3:00.  The Rio Theatre will also have its usual 7:30 movie showing following the parade.

Thank you to this year's Presenting Sponsor, Shelby Savings Bank.  Also, thank you to the City of Center, our Float Competition Sponsor; Farmers State Bank, Specter, Inc. and Tyson Foods, all Silver Sponsors. 

 Parade winners will be announced via media on Monday, December 3rd. 

Alexander Nathan Barter a Joaquin man who was arrested on child exploitation charges was indicted by the Grand Jury for the attempted sexual performance of a child and possession of child pornography on November 14, 2018, in Beaumont, Texas. His case is based in Lufkin and he is still under a review for mental competency.

Fees at some National Forest recreation areas will increase Jan. 1, according to Forest Supervisor Eddie Taylor. The last increase for most sites in Texas was in 2003.

“The changes will help to ensure fees are more comparable to similar public and private sites in the area, be consistent with inflationary costs, and help defray rising maintenance and operation costs,” Taylor said. 

Fee changes include:

Sam Houston National Forest

-- Cagle Recreation Area camping: $30 a night per site; currently $27

Davy Crockett National Forest

-- Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area swim area: $5 a day per vehicle; currently $3

Angelina National Forest

-- Boykin Springs Recreation Area camping: $10 a night per site; currently $6

-- Caney Creek Recreation Area boat launch: $5 a day per vehicle; currently $3

Notices of the fee increases will be posted in each recreation area.

The Interagency (Access, Senior) Passes and Golden (Access, Senior) Passports will be honored at standard day-use locations. Senior and Access passes offer a 50 percent discount on all single occupancy campsites, boat launch sites and swimming areas.

Congress passed the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act in 2008 which allows the Forest Service to keep 80-95 percent of fees collected at recreation sites to operate, maintain and improve the sites.

The 2018 Timpson Christmas Parade will be December 1st at 1 p.m. on the Square in Timpson, Texas. 

LUFKIN, TEXAS – Texas Forestry Association (TFA) is pleased to announce the following individuals who will serve on the 2019-2021 Board of Directors. Candidates were chosen by the TFA Nominating Committee based on names submitted by the TFA membership and were sworn in on Oct 18, 2018, during the annual convention held at Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas.

Board members from Lufkin are Justin Penick, Owner and President of Acorn Forestry, and Craig Teer, Vice President for Teer Logging. Board members from Nacogdoches are David Alders, managing partner of Alders Enterprises, Ltd. and Buck Bay Timber, Ltd., and Dr. Jeremy Stovall, Associate Professor of Silviculture at Stephen F. Austin State University.

From Cushing, Evadale, and Livingston respectively are Quentin S. Burnett, owner and operator of Burnett Ranch; Ryan Daniel, Procurement Forester for WestRock; and Lux Davis, Nursery Business Specialist for ArborGen.

From Kirbyville, Corrigan, and Tyler respectively are Russell Elder, owner of Elder Hardwoods; John Hamilton, Procurement Manager for Roy O. Martin; and John Heath, District Manager and Real Estate Broker for American Forest Management.

From Henderson, Orange, Livingston, and Jacksonville respectively are Michael Pinnell, owner and President ofPinnell Logging; Vince Rogers, President of Rogers Lumber Company; Jennifer Smith, District Manager for Resource Management Service; and Taylor Wilson, forester with Farmers National Company.

“Each of these board members will bring with them quality leadership and proven expertise that will advance TFA’s mission to perpetuate and promote the Texas forest resource,” Rob Hughes, TFA Executive Director, said. “We are grateful for their willingness to serve and look forward to working with them to advance TFA as the voice of forestry in Texas.”

ABOUT:
Texas Forestry Association, the voice for forestry for over 100 years, promotes an economic, social and political climate that will advance forestry in Texas through education, political action and public relations, as well as serving the broad needs of the forest resource of landowners, producers and consumers, and to enhance and perpetuate the Texas forest resource.

LUFKIN – Texas Transportation Commissioners recently approved more than $402.1 million for new construction projects statewide, with nearly $14 million approved for the Lufkin District.

Two projects were approved in the Lufkin District for $10.9 million and $2.9 million. The projects are designed to resurface the roadway with sealcoat throughout the nine-county district. Work is scheduled from May to August, 2019.

Newman & Keng Paving Co., Inc, Giddings, TX will serve as contractors for the $2.9 million contract, and Missouri Petroleum Products Company LLC, Mountain View, MO will serve as contractor for the $10.9 million contract.

As these projects begin, motorists are urged to stay alert and respect all work zones and traffic control devices. For information on current projects, road closures and conditions statewide, visit drivetexas.org.

The suspect involved has been identified as 28-year-old Antonio Aguilar, from Center, Texas. A felony warrant for attempted capital murder has been issued for Aguilar with a $5 million bond. Aguilar is described as a Hispanic male, five foot ten inches tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds. He has short brown hair and brown eyes (pictured below).

If anyone has any information regarding the whereabouts of Aguilar, please contact the DPS Lufkin Communications at 936-699-7340 or your local law enforcement agency or by calling 9-1-1. Hindering the apprehension of Aguilar may be a felony offense.

SHELBY COUNTY - At approximately 1:40 p.m. on 11-28-18, a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)Trooper attempted to stop a Cadillac SUV on FM 699 for a traffic violation when the driver fled from law enforcement.

The felony suspect continued his flight onto CR 3853, near Joaquin, where he briefly stopped and allowed his two passengers to get out of the Cadillac (they were detained by law enforcement and later released) before he continued evading.

Based on the preliminary investigation, after a short distance, the suspect stopped, backed into the DPS patrol vehicle causing substantial damage, prompting the Trooper to discharge his weapon. The suspect then retrieved a rifle from his Cadillac and fired, striking the windshield of the marked DPS vehicle.

The Trooper was uninjured during this incident. Law enforcement continues to search the area for the suspect who fled from the scene in the Cadillac.

Anyone with information regarding the location of the suspect is asked to contact the DPS Communications facility in Lufkin at 936-699-7340. This is an ongoing investigation. No additional information is available at this time.

Below is the newest forecast from the National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center for our Friday Weather. 

North of IH 20 is now in the level 4 ENHANCED RISK. 

Those of us South of IH 20 have moved from the level 2 MARGINAL RISK into the level 3 Slight Risk area and that does include a line from Shreveport to Longview and South to Livingston and on to the West into the Dallas area.

The threat of severe thunderstorms will return to the NWS Shreveport Region on Friday as a power storm system tracks East into the area. Areas near and North of Interstate 20 have been upgraded from a slight to an enhanced risk.       

Timing and Overview:

Although a few thunderstorms may develop during the morning hours on Friday, it appears that the main threat of severe storms will occur later in the afternoon and evening, and possibly continue well into the overnight hours.          

Four State Impacts:

Impacts:  The main threat from these storms will be damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes. Locally heavy rainfall and flash flooding are other possible threats with these storms, although the occurrence of either of these threats will remain more limited in scope in the Slight Risk Area.  I will have more information during the morning NWS Weather Briefing.

SHELBY COUNTY - At approximately 1:40 p.m. today 11-28-18, a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Trooper attempted to stop a Cadillac SUV on FM 699 for a traffic violation when the driver fled from law enforcement.

The felony suspect continued his flight onto CR 3853, near Joaquin, where he briefly stopped and allowed his two passengers to get out of the Cadillac (they were detained by law enforcement and later released) before he continued evading. After a short distance, the suspect stopped, backed into the DPS patrol vehicle causing substantial damage, prompting the Trooper to discharge his weapon. The suspect then retrieved a rifle from his Cadillac and fired, striking the windshield of
the marked DPS vehicle.

The Trooper was uninjured during this incident. Law enforcement continues to search the area for the suspect who fled from the scene in the Cadillac. Anyone with information regarding the location of the suspect is asked to contact the DPS Communications facility in Lufkin at 936-699-7340.

This is an ongoing investigation. No additional information is available at this time.

It began when Japanese aircraft appeared in the air over Pearl Harbor, Hawaii just before 8:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, December 7th, 1941.  When the attack ceased shortly before 10:00 a.m., less than two hours after it began, American forces had paid a fearful price.  Eighteen (18) ships were either damaged or sunk, 180 aircraft were destroyed and 2,403 were dead and thousands of others wounded.

In honor and remembrance of those who served and died at Pearl Harbor, Shelby County Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 8904 and the Auxiliary will hold a remembrance program at Veterans Memorial, 1885 Historic Courthouse at 10:00 a m, Friday, December 7th, 2018. 

As always, the public is cordially invited to attend.  More information contact Post Quartermaster Larry Hume, 598-2976.

Game Details - Nacogdoches High School, Football Stadium

The San Augustine varsity football team vs Garrison (TX) 

Saturday, December 1st at 1 p.m. 

The game will be covered live on 92.5 KXXE.

Tri-state and the City of Tenaha are working together to give bicycles to children this Christmas. Center Broadcasting Company met with and interviewed Tenaha PD Captain Joey Hudnall. 

Video Coverage:

The San Augustine vs Garrison Region Semi-Final Playoff game has been rescheduled for Saturday, December 1, 2018 at Nacogdoches High School. Game time will be 1:00 PM. Listen live on 92.5 FM KXXE with Tracy Broadway. Tenaha will play Carlisle Saturday at 2:00 PM in Hallsville.

Center Motor Company had some hand tools and test equipment stolen over the Thanksgiving Holiday sometime between when the employees left for the Thanksgiving Holiday and returned Friday morning November 23rd, 2018. Center Motor Company is offering a $1,000 reward to anyone who can help lead to an arrest, this is according to General Manager Kevin Jones.

If you have any information contact the Center Police Department at 936-598-2788. Detective Bobby Walker is working on the case. 

Life-Saving Community Blood Drive.

First Baptist Church

Thursday, November 29

10:00 am – 2:30 pm

Contact Theresa Crawford at 936-598-5605

FREE T-SHIRT to donors!!

In keeping with the holiday tradition, the Grand Marshal will lead the parade at 6 p.m. this Saturday, Dec. 1,2018,  Dr. Jheri-Lynn McSwain, the 2018 Distinguished Service Award recipient is this year’s, Grand Marshal. Over 20 floats will make their way through the heart of downtown Center to delight the young and old alike.

Blush Boutique, COR Boutique, Center Floral & Gifts, Hughes Florist, Mooney’s Emporium, Payne & Payne Home N’Suchlike, Simply Personal, The Century Shoppe and Vintage Junkie will be holding their Open Houses during the day and many will be open during the parade.

The Rio Theatre will be showing a special Matinee of The Grinch at 3:30.  The box office will open at 3:00.  The Rio Theatre will also have its usual 7:30 movie showing following the parade.

Thank you to this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Shelby Savings Bank.  Also, thank you to the City of Center, our Float Competition Sponsor; Farmers State Bank, Specter, Inc. and Tyson Foods, all Silver Sponsors. 

 Parade winners will be announced via media on Monday, December 3rd. 

The CPD Ladies Auxiliary has donated a Beautiful Christmas wreath for Operation Blue Santa to use to raise funds for our Toy drive. Raffle Tickets will be sold for $1 each, and will be drawn on Dec 9th during Cookies & Cocoa with Santa. Please come by the Center PD to purchase your tickets. We will also have the wreath and tickets available tonight at Holiday on Foster! 

Don’t forget about the Toy Drive RAFFLE DRAWING! Bring in a Toy to the Center Police Dept and be entered into a drawing for a Christmas Movie Package : 32 inch Smart TV, DVD player, Popcorn, Cocoa, Cozy Blanket, and a Christmas movie set. 1 Entry per person, 1 Entry per day! Please bring in a New In package toy, Boy or Girl or all Ages! Drawing to be held on December 9th at the close of Cookies & Cocoa with Santa! Get your picture taken with Santa that day also!

Deadline for Forms is November 30th! If you know of any child in Shelby County that may not have any Santa this Christmas, please fill out this form. One for each child and turn back into the Center Police Department Dispatch, or Shelby County Today. This form will need to be returned to the PD no later than Thursday, November 30th 2018. Any form turned in after the due date will NOT be accepted. This ensures us plenty of time to get all the toys we will need. Remember, all forms are anonymous. Forms or Monetary donations can also be mailed to BLUE SANTA at P.O. Box 322 Center, Tx 75935. If you would like to donate new toys, clothing, hygiene items please bring them to the Center Police Dept. Boys and girls of all ages will be needed, infant to 15yrs old. The entire Blue Santa team would like to thank everyone for your generous donation to the Blue Santa program. With your donation and others like yours, we will be able to provide Christmas to many children in Shelby County. Again thank you, we can not do it without you! Let Blue Santa help You make a Childs Christmas blessed this year.

Our NWS Shreveport Center has issued an early statement of a severe weather pattern developing based of the advice of the Storm Prediction Center view of its early rapid development.

The threat of severe weather will return to the Shreveport Region later this week & on through the first half of the weekend. 

A powerful storm system will shift East from the Rockies on Friday with a strong cold front tracking into our Deep East Texas Area (graphic below) by Friday evening into Saturday morning.   Storms may develop during the afternoon on Friday, but the timing of greatest threat for severe storms appears to be during the evening and overnight hours from Friday night through early Saturday morning.    

Impacts:  Damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes all appear to be possible threats at this time. Additional impacts include heavy rainfall and flash flooding with widespread 1-2 inches of rainfall and isolated higher amounts possible. 

Video Coverage:

After taking the area football championship win over Jewett Leon, 46-14 Friday in Crockett, the SA Wolfpack will play the Garrison Bulldogs in the Region III semifinals at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30 at Nacogdoches High School. SA is the visitor.

Garrison defeats Alto, 43-13 Friday.

Both SA & Garrison are 10-2.

Tenaha vs Price Carlisle at 7 p.m. Friday in Hallsville.

Click Here for More Information:

Sheriff Jayson Richardson wanted to notify the public of two narcotics arrests after multiple complaints were received.

Agents conducted an undercover operation involving the distribution of methamphetamine in the Logansport area.  During the operation, Agents were able to identify Annie Louise Murray (W/F – DOB: 07/29/1981) of Joaquin, TX as being one of the dealers transporting suspected methamphetamine from Joaquin into Logansport.  Agents found that after transporting the narcotics into DeSoto Parish, she would then sell the methamphetamine to local residents.  Agents obtained an arrest warrant for Murray.  She was later arrested and booked into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center for Possession of Schedule II with Intent to Distribute - Methamphetamine.  Additional arrests are anticipated from this undercover operation.

Agents conducted a brief investigation following complaints received within Mansfield city limits.  Citizens reported narcotics activity at an abandoned house at the intersection of Williams Street and Sample Street.  Agents responded to the location and observed a vehicle parked in the roadway in front of the house.  A subject, later identified as Derrick Thomas (B/M – DOB: 11/28/1976) of Shreveport, LA, was standing in the yard of the abandoned house.  During the investigation, Agents learned the vehicle parked in the roadway belonged to Thomas and observed within plain view what appeared to be a marijuana grinder, digital scales, and marijuana cigars.  Agents searched the vehicle and located the above listed items as well as 6 bags of suspected synthetic marijuana, another digital scale, and empty plastic bags commonly used as packaging material for narcotics.  Thomas admitted to having possession of the items, was placed under arrest and later booked into the DeSoto Parish Detention Center for the following charges:

Obstruction of a Public Passage

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Possession of Schedule I with Intent to Distribute

Annie Louise Murray (W/F – DOB: 07/29/1981)

Derrick Thomas (B/M – DOB: 11/28/1976)

The Center Police Department Gun raffle winner was Billy Neal. 

A Heavy Frost on the pumpkin this morning even though it was 35.5 degrees....happens when it is clear and still.  The last freezing weather really did away with my garden.  I suppose it is time for me to get to prepping for the Spring garden.  Good news it is warming up and will be mostly sunny through next week. The temps will range from the upper 50's to upper 60' for highs and our low around 40....so no frost during the evenings. 

Notice is hereby given the regular scheduled called meeting of the governing body of the City of Tenaha will be held on Monday November 26, 2018 @ 5:15 p.m. in the City Hall Council Meeting Room located at 238 N. George Bowers Drive in Tenaha, Texas. If while the meeting, any discussion on items on the Agenda should be held in executive session, the Council will convene in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Government Code Section 551.101.

Order of Business
1. Call to Order
2. Welcome/Prayer/Pledge
3. Roll Call and Establish a quorum.
4. Public Comments (Limited to 3 minutes)
5. Discuss and Consider Approval of Minutes from October 2018 Meeting. (Action)
6. Discuss and Consider Approval of Financials for October 2018 Meeting (Action)
7. Discuss, consider, and adopt resolution designating a planning service provider for the 2019 Texas
CDBG Planning and Capacity Building Fund application and project implementation. (Action)
8. Discuss and Consider having December City Council Meeting. (Action)
9. Discuss and Consider adding Piney Wood Sanitation Survey to next month’s water bill.
(Action)
10. Mayor and City Council Members Concerns
11. Department Head Reports/City Council Comments
12. Adjourn

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 28th day of November, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. in the Courtroom of the Shelby County Courthouse at 200 San Augustine Street, Center, Shelby County, Texas to deliberate and consider action on the following items:

1.Approve and pay weekly expenses.

2.Approve and pay current payroll.

3.Public comments on Agenda item.

4.Discuss and possibly approve County Information Resources Agency Services Agreement for Texas Association of Counties. 

5.Discuss and possibly approve Roof Restoration for the Clerks Building to be paid out of Records Management. 

6.Discuss the 2020 Redistricting process and possibly approve to contract with Allison, Bass & Magee, L.L.P. to perform the service.

7.Adjourn.

The San Augustine courthouse will be closed on Thursday and Friday of this week. Please find the attached Commissioners Court agenda for November 27, 2018. We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving, and safe travels for you and your family.

Go Wolves!

San Augustine Commissioners Court Agenda 11-27-18:

WASHINGTON — Are you a Black Friday shopper or Cyber Monday shopper? Maybe you shop throughout the holiday season. No matter when you buy your holiday gifts, you can relax knowing the U.S. Postal Service will get your packages to their destination this holiday season.

Holiday mailing deadlines are fast approaching, and the Postal Service is ready to deliver. Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the Postal Service expects to deliver more than 900 million packages and nearly 15 billion pieces of mail – for a total of nearly 16 billion cheerful deliveries this holiday season.  

Customers planning to mail cards and packages are encouraged to visit a local Post Office no later than the below dates for expected delivery by Dec. 25 to Air/Army Post Office/Fleet Post Office/Diplomatic Post Office and domestic addresses:*

·       Dec. 4    – APO/FPO/DPO (ZIP Code 093 only) Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 11  – APO/FPO/DPO (all other ZIP Codes) Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 14 – USPS Retail Ground

·       Dec. 18  – APO/FPO/DPO (except ZIP Code 093) USPS Priority Mail Express

·       Dec. 20 – First-Class Mail (including greeting cards)

·       Dec. 20 – First-Class packages (up to 15.99 ounces)

·       Dec. 20  –  Hawaii to mainland Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 20 – Priority Mail

·       Dec. 20  – Alaska to mainland Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 22  – Alaska to mainland Priority Mail Express

·       Dec. 22  – Hawaii to mainland Priority Mail Express

·       Dec. 22 – Priority Mail Express

*Not a guarantee, unless otherwise noted. Dates are for estimated delivery before Dec. 25. Actual delivery date may vary depending on origin, destination, Post Office acceptance date and time and other conditions. Some restrictions apply. For Priority Mail Express shipments mailed Dec. 22 through Dec. 25, the money-back guarantee applies only if the shipment was not delivered, or delivery was not attempted, within two (2) business days.

To send packages to loved ones serving in the military or at diplomatic posts abroad, the Postal Service offers a discounted price of $17.40 on its largest Priority Mail Flat Rate Box. The price includes a $1.50 per-box discount for mail sent to APO/FPO/DPO destinations worldwide.

To handle the surge in volume, the Postal Service is expanding its Sunday delivery operations in select high package volume locations during the holiday season. More than 5 million packages are expected to be delivered each Sunday in December. Mail carriers will also deliver Priority Mail Express packages on Christmas Day for an additional fee in select locations.

Busiest Week

The notion of a “busiest day” is a thing of the past, thanks to the increase in early and online gift shopping. Customer mailing and shipping traffic is expected to increase beginning Dec. 10, and the Postal Service expects to deliver nearly 200 million packages per week during these two weeks. The week of Dec. 17-23 is predicted to be the busiest mailing, shipping and delivery week, when nearly 3 billion pieces of First-Class Mail, including greeting cards, will be processed and delivered.

Wrap Up the Holidays from Home

Consumers don’t even have to leave home to ship their packages, they can simply visit usps.com. The Postal Service anticipates Dec. 17 will be the Postal Service’s busiest day online with more than 8 million consumers predicted to visit usps.com for help shipping that special holiday gift. It’s predicted that nearly 105 million consumers will visit the website between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. And usps.com is always open.

It’s estimated nearly 400,000 consumers will use the Click-N-Ship feature and other online services on Dec. 17 to order free Priority Mail boxes, print shipping labels, purchase postage and even request free next-day Package Pickup.

Holiday Advertising Campaign

The Postal Service’s 2018 holiday campaign features direct mail, TV, radio, print, digital and social media promotions highlighting the organization’s proud tradition of delivering cheer and value to consumers and businesses.

The first of several TV spots began airing Nov. 9 and can be viewed on USPS-TV. A direct mail piece with information customers need to know for the holidays will be mailed to 105 million homes by Thanksgiving.

Additional Tips

Informed Delivery is the Postal Service’s free daily digital preview of what’s coming to your mailbox. This holiday season, not only can you manage your packages and sneak a peek at cards headed your way, you can also see some exterior images of magazines and catalogs — all from your mobile app, dashboard, tablet or computer. Informed Delivery is one more way the Postal Service is helping you anticipate, communicate and celebrate this holiday season.

The Postal Service also offers shipping tips in 10 video “how to” guides. Each video is less than three minutes long and shows customers how to address packages, ship packages and pack a box so items arrive safely.

Additional news and information, including all domestic, international and military mailing, and shipping deadlines, can be found at the Postal Service Holiday Newsroom: usps.com/holidaynews.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

(COLLEGE STATION, Texas), Nov. 13, 2018 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Gary Six reminds Texas producers who experienced losses from natural disasters during the 2017 and 2018 calendar years that they may be eligible for assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) and Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). 

“We want to ensure that all eligible agricultural producers who experienced losses from natural disasters get the assistance they need,” said Six. 

Tree Assistance Program (TAP):

TAP provides financial assistance to qualifying orchardists and nursery tree growers to replant or rehabilitate eligible trees, bushes and vines lost due to natural disasters. Payment eligibility is triggered when a mortality loss in excess of 15 percent on a stand (adjusted for normal mortality) occurs due to natural disaster. 

In addition, up to $15 million is available to eligible pecan orchardists or pecan nursery tree growers for certain mortality losses incurred during 2017. To be eligible, the grower must have suffered a mortality loss on a stand in excess of 7.5 percent, but less than 15 percent, adjusted for normal mortality from Jan. 1, 2017, through Dec. 31, 2017. 

For 2017 and 2018 TAP losses, and 2017 Pecan TAP losses, growers have until the later of Dec. 3, 2018, or 90 calendar days after the disaster event or date when the loss of trees becomes apparent to submit an application with supporting documentation.

Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP):
ELAP provides emergency assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybees and farm-raised fish who have suffered losses due to an adverse weather or loss condition, including blizzards, disease, water shortages and wildfires. ELAP assistance is provided for losses not covered by other disaster assistance programs. 

For 2017 and 2018 ELAP, producers must file a notice of loss and application for payment at their local FSA office by Dec. 3, 2018. for losses occurring from Oct. 1, 2016, through Sept. 30, 2018.

Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP):

LIP provides compensation to eligible livestock owners or contract growers for livestock deaths in excess of normal mortality, or injury resulting in reduced value, caused by an eligible loss condition. 

For 2017 and 2018 LIP, a livestock owner or contract grower must file a notice of loss the later of 30 calendar days from when the loss of livestock is first apparent, or Dec. 3, 2018. For 2017 losses, a livestock owner or contract grower must file an application for payment by Dec. 3, 2018.  For 2018 losses, a livestock owner or contract grower must file an application for payment by, March 1, 2019.

Other Amendments to the 2014 Farm Bill by the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018

“In February, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 made several changes to FSA disaster programs,” Six said. “This includes eliminating the $20 million fiscal year funding cap for ELAP, eliminating the $125,000 payment limitation for LIP for 2017 and future years and allowing producers to receive a payment for injured livestock that are sold for a reduced price due to an eligible event.” 

As a result of these changes, starting June 4, producers were allowed to submit ELAP, LIP and LFP applications for 2017 losses if they reached the payment limitation under the previous rules. The application periods for these programs for the 2017 program year will close on Dec. 3, 2018. Producers who already submitted applications and received decisions on their applications for these years do not need to file again but can reapply if they have additional losses or their application or notice of loss was denied because it was late filed.

Contact your local FSA office for program deadlines. For more information on FSA disaster assistance programs or to find your local USDA Service Center, visit https://www.farmers.gov/.

(Nacogdoches, Tx)  The Nacogdoches Police Department are investigating a homicide that occurred early yesterday morning 11-18-18 at 603 Old Tyler Rd also known as the ASD Lounge.

Police were called to 609 Old Tyler Rd also known as the ASD Lounge multiple times in reference to large disturbances in the early morning of November 18th 2018.  At 1:14 AM Officers responded again to the club, this time in reference to a gunshot call.

Upon arrival, officers found a large disturbance and a victim lying on the ground outside of the club.  The victim had suffered an apparent gunshot wound to the head. The female victim was identified to be Lyric Polley 21 years of age from Nacogdoches, Tx.  The victim was determined to be deceased by emergency medical personnel that responded to the scene. 

Officers have not made any arrests in reference to the homicide but are actively working the case.  As information becomes available it will be released. 

Anyone with information about this homicide is encouraged to call the Nacogdoches Police Department at (936) 559-2607. 

The Logansport varsity football team has a game vs. West St. John on Friday, November 23 @ 7 p.m. it will be a home game. 

Garrison vs. Alto Friday in Nacogdoches @ 7 p.m.

Tenaha Tigers vs. Centerville Tigers, Palestine High School, Friday @ 2:00 p.m.

San Augustine Wolves vs. Leon Cougars, Friday @ 1 p.m., Monte Jack Driskell Stadium, Crockett.

Joaquin Rams vs. Carlisle Indians, Carthage, Friday @ 7:00 p.m.

SHELBY COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded to the scene of a forced airplane landing on State Highway 7 that occurred due to mechanical issues, about five miles south of Joaquin.

The preliminary investigation indicates at approximately 1 p.m., a 2009 Jabiru Sport airplane was reportedly flying from Baton Rouge, LA to Center, TX when it was forced to land and overturned, off SH 7. No injuries were reported. The pilot of the aircraft is identified as 53-year-old Leaonard Lorden, from Mansfield, TX. Lorden and a nine year-old passenger were not reportedly injured during the crash.

The Federal Aviation Administration has been notified. No additional information is available at this time.

Video Coverage:

Center 38  Liberty 55

Joaquin 42  West Sabine 0

Logansport 48  Gueydan 0
San Augustine 40  Timpson 12

Tenaha 49  Shelbyville 18

Area Football Championships

Tenaha Tigers vs. Centerville Tigers, Palestine High School, Friday @ 2:00 p.m.

San Augustine Wolves vs. Leon Cougars, Friday @ 1 p.m., Monte Jack Driskell Stadium, Crockett.

Joaquin Rams vs. Carlisle Indians, Carthage, Friday @ 7:00 p.m.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Stephen F. Austin State University’s Beef Research Center barn was destroyed in a fire that occurred early on the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 14.

“The fire caused significant damage to the structure and contents of the building,” said Dr. Hans Williams, dean of SFA’s Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture. “We are very thankful that no people or animals were injured.”

The Beef Farm is a part of SFA’s 726-acre Walter C. Todd Agricultural Research Center, and it is an integral part of the learning experience for SFA’s agriculture students.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Friends and alumni who wish to donate funds to aid in the recovery of the facility and its contents may contribute in a variety of ways.

To donate online, visit www.sfasu.edu/give. Select “other,” specify “Beef Farm” and follow the designated steps to complete the donation.

Checks made payable to the SFA Office of Development also may be sent to P.O. Box 6092-SFA Station, Nacogdoches, Texas, 75962. Please include a note stating the contribution is for the SFA Beef Farm.

Donors also may call the SFA Office of Development at (936) 468-5406 to make a gift by phone. Once again, please designate the donation is intended for the SFA Beef Farm.

For any inquiries regarding other ways to help, contact Dr. Joey Bray, chair of the SFA Department of Agriculture, at (936) 468-3705 or Dr. Erin Brown, professor of animal science, at (936) 468-3705.

The City Council of Joaquin will meet in regular session Tuesday November 20, 2018
6:00 p.m. at The Joaquin City Hall located at 124 North Preston, Joaquin, Texas.

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1. Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest.
2. Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Open Forum.
4. Council approval of the previous month’s minutes.
5. Monthly Reports:
a. City Secretary- Administrative updates.
b. Utility Billing Manager Report -- Monthly receipts.
c. Public Works Manager-Update – Departmental Updates
d. Water Department-Update—Ongoing Water Projects
e. Events Committee Christmas Festival Report.
6. Council approval on Payment of Bills.
7. Discussion & Council Action on  purchase City Work Truck.
8. Council will hold a closed Executive Session Meeting-Personnel Matters (551.074).
a. Consideration & possible approval of Christmas Benefits
b. Public Works Position- Selection of Candidate.
9. Council reconvenes & possible action on matters discussed in executive session.
10. Adjournment.

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the governing body of the above named City will be held on the 20th day of November, 2018 at 5:30 pm at the City Hall, 456 Jacob Street, Timpson, Texas, at which time the following subjects will be considered, to-wit:  

1.    Call to Order:

2. Invocation:

3. Pledge:  United States Pledge, Texas Pledge             

4. Chamber of Commerce:  Chamber of Commerce, presented by Paul Smith.

5. Council Items:   Reports by the members of the City Council on matters not on the

             agenda will be made at this time.  A total, not to exceed 10 minutes will be devoted 

             to these reports.

6. Christmas Activities:  There will be a Christmas Parade on December 1, 2018 at 

             1:00pm.  Floats and participants need to line up between 12:00-12:30 in front

             of the High School.  Joyce Moore will be in charge of the lineup.

7. Citizens Input:  This time is provided for members of the public to address the City

             Council on items that appear within the Consent and Action Items or a matter not

             listed on the agenda.  Each speaker is limited to 3 minutes.  A Citizens Input Form

             may be filled out and filed with the City Secretary prior to the meeting.    

     8.          Department Reports:

                  A.    Public Works Report:  Larry Burns

                  B.    Police Department Report: Kent Graham

                  C.    Municipal Court Report:  For the month of October 2018, there were 29 

                  citations issued,  35 violations, 0 to juveniles and 0 to a minor.  Total amount 

                  reported $9,521.45 the City’s portion a 55% estimate of $5,236.79.  

            D.   City Secretary:  Leslie Leathers reporting that there will be no Regular City

            Council Meeting in December.  ALL regular monthly bills will be paid as usual and    

            then ratified in January.  Bear Drive update, nothing has been fixed to date and no

            invoice has been issued.  Also, update the Council on what is going on with the Water

            Grant.

     9.           Consent Agenda:  Items included under the Consent Agenda require little or no 

       Deliberation by the Council.  Approval of the Consent Agenda authorizes the       

       City Secretary to proceed with the conclusion of each item as reflected in the    

       Minutes of this meeting.

A.  Consider approval of the minutes of the regular meeting held on October 16, 2018 

B.  Consider approval of Financial Statement for the month of October, 2018

C.  Consider approval of Accounts Payable – Unpaid bills for October, 2018

D.  Approval of the Engagement Letter from Frank Campos for the Audit of the City

 2017-18 financial statements.  The fee this year was $12,750 and the estimated fee

 for next year is from $12,450 to $13,200.

REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS  (10 –13)

     10.        Discuss and possibly take action:  Adopt Resolution 20181120-1 designating 

                  East Texas Press as the official “printed” newspaper for the City of Timpson.

     11.        Discuss and possibly take action:  Renew contract or accept bids for the 2018 

                  Woodlawn Cemetery Mowing Contract.  Contract is currently with Pineywoods 

                  Lawn Care (Ricky Askins) for $1,250 per month and ends January 31, 2018.

     12.        Discuss and possibly take action:  2018-19 COLA raises.  Per the Meeting on 

                  October 16, 2018,  A) rescind the vote at the September 18, 2018 meeting to not

                  issue

                  COLA raises to City Employees.  B) approve a 2-3% COLA raise for all City 

                  Employees (Electric, Water/Sewer and General Departments). 

     13.        Adjourn:

LUFKIN – Work schedules for the next week will be altered due to the holiday, but crews will be working part of the week through construction projects and monitoring roadways and traffic signals during peak travel hours.

“This is normally one of the busiest travel weeks on our roadways and we want everyone to stay safe and respect any work zone they might drive through,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer. “Our crews and contractors plan on being off of the roadway ahead of the holiday. Motorists should expect delays during peak travel hours. Be patient, obey all traffic control and drive safely.”

Signal techs will be on call through the holiday as traffic signals on US 59 in Nacogdoches, Corrigan and Diboll will be set to dynamic maximum and optimized to allow for as much northbound and southbound traffic to clear the intersections as possible during peak travel hours. The signals will also be programmed to stop traffic to allow side streets to cycle when vehicles are detected.

SHELBY COUNTY

US 96: Crews are placing temporary striping and winterizing this project from US 84 to SH 87. Alternating lane closures should be expected.

CR 4789: Rip rap is being placed at this tributary of Blackwater Creek and at Risinger Creek on CR 4620. This project is designed for bridge replacements at both locations.

SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY

SH 21: Crews are monitoring vegetative establishment at Venado Creek, Perkins Creek and Niciper Creek where new bridges and approaches have been constructed.

Various locations: Crews will work to repair potholes, remove debris and monitor roadway conditions.

SABINE COUNTY

SH 103: Crews will be repairing base in various locations.

Various locations: Work is scheduled to monitor the roadway, remove debris and repair potholes.

ANGELINA COUNTY

US 59: Crews are scheduled to resume milling the southbound lanes and shoulder on this project designed to resurface the roadway from Whitehouse Drive to FM 2497 near Diboll. Motorists should expect delays.

US 69 South: Work to place asphalt beginning in the turning lane and moving south will continue from Huntington to FM 844. All lanes are scheduled for treatment through this section of the project. From FM 844 to FM 1270 in Zavalla, crews will continue to work to install drainage structures, excavate and place embankment for the northbound lanes and pour drill shafts and columns for bridges throughout this section of the project. Traffic control is in place and motorists should expect delays.

FM 324:  Crews are scheduled to continue installing safety end treatments on driveways and cross drainage structures on this project to improve guardrail to design standards and safety treat fixed objects from just south of SH 94 to US 59.

FM 1669: Crews are scheduled to repair base near Odell Creek.

FM 326: Base repairs are scheduled in various locations.

FM 1336: Crews continue to work on cross culverts at various locations in this project to improve and upgrade guardrail and safety treat fixed objects.

FM 841: Work is scheduled on front slopes on this bridge replacement project at Biloxi Creek. The roadway and bridge have been reopened, but motorists should expect intermittent lane closures.

FM 325/Lufkin Avenue: Crews are working to complete the sidewalk and curb ramps in front of Lufkin High School and will continue to work west on this project designed to install sidewalks and intersection ramps to near Timberland Drive.

Robinson Lane: Stone rip rap is being placed and crews are preparing the right of way on this project designed to replace the bridge and approaches at Gilliland Creek. The roadway remains closed. Detours are in place.

Various locations: Work is scheduled to repair signs and patch potholes.

NACOGDOCHES COUNTY

FM 95: Crews are scheduled to remove the detour bridge and seal the roadway at Terrapin Creek where a new bridge and approaches have been constructed. Daily lane closures expected.

FM 226: Work to place sod and upgrade metal beam guard fence continues from SH 21 to the end of pavement on this project designed to safety treat fixed objects.

FM 1638: Crews will continue to monitor vegetative establishment from FM 698 to US 59/SL 224.

Various locations: Crews will be monitoring the roadways, repairing potholes and removing debris.

TRINITY COUNTY

FM 2262: Crews continue to work to upgrade metal beam guard fence throughout this project designed to reconstruct and widen pavement from FM 357 to SH 94.

Various locations: Crews will work to repair potholes and signs.

HOUSTON COUNTY

US 287 South: Crews will work to repair edges in various locations.

SH 21 West: Crews will continue to place base material and stabilize the subgrade on this project that will reconstruct pavement and add passing lanes, improve guardrail to design standards and safety treat fixed objects from 2.3 miles east of FM 2967 to SH 7.

SH 21: Right of way is scheduled to be cleared in Austonio from FM 1280 to the Trinity River bridge on this project designed to widen pavement and add passing lanes.

SH 19: Crews are scheduled to work on cross culverts on this project designed to improve guardrail and safety treat fixed objects from 1.6 miles north of FM 231 to the Trinity County line.

SH 19 South: Crews will be working in various locations to repair and clear ditches.

SL 304:  Work is scheduled to cut high shoulders in various locations.

FM 227: Work is scheduled to repair slopes, ditches and wash-outs on this project designed to safety treat fixed objects from SH 21 to SH 7.

FM 2967: Crews are scheduled to place a layer of asphalt and work on slopes in this project designed to reconstruct and widen pavement from FM 132 to SH 21. Traffic is confined to one lane with a pilot car in use during work hours.

CR 2245 and CR 1515: Work is scheduled to continue at Big Elkhart Creek in this project designed to replace the bridge and approaches at both locations. The roads are closed to traffic. Detours are in place.

Various locations; Work is planned to patch potholes and repair signs.

POLK COUNTY

FM 350 North: Crews are working to set culvert headwalls in various locations on this project designed to safety treat fixed objects from 2.6 miles north of FM 3152 to US 190.

FM 2798: Crews will continue to place an overlay to seal the surface through this project that is designed to upgrade the roadway from FM 943 to the Hardin County line.

CR/Holly Grove at Menard Creek: Crews are scheduled to work on placing base material at bridge approaches on this bridge replacement project.

SAN JACINTO COUNTY

US 59: Crews are scheduled to continue this project to upgrade guardrail to design standards in various locations.

FM 224: Barricades have been set on this project designed to upgrade guardrail from SH 156 North to SH 156 South.

FM 2693: Crews are scheduled to continue to upgrade culverts to design standards in this project designed to safety treat fixed objects from SH 150 to 4.5 miles north of SH 150.

FM 1725: Work is scheduled to install safety end treatments from SH 150 to the Liberty County line. Lane closures expected.

For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.

John Davis 38 was arrested yesterday 11-15-18 by the Tenaha Police department Captain Joey Hudnall on the charges of Burglary of a Motor vehicle and Burglary of a Building.  He was booked into the Shelby County jail by Tenaha Police Department Officer K. Lawrence.

The Shelbyville ISD health fair was held on 11-15-18 at Shelbyville ISD. Center Broadcasting Company attended the event below is video coverage.

Video Coverage:

For more photos click here:

This morning gave us a 28 degree low, quiet winds, and therefore lots of thick frost covering everything. 

This warming and sunny sky trend will continue into next week. The weather conditions for our playoff game in Henderson will be almost exactly the same and ours!  So, get out and support our San Augustine Wolf Pack in their playoff game with the Timpson Bears.

Tri-County Board of Directors Special Call Meeting will be held tomorrow Nov 15 6:00 p.m.

214 Nacogdoches St.

Center, Texas 

The local VFW Post 8904 and the women's auxiliary made and set up this display of quilted buddy poppies in honor of those who served in WWI.  

Tri-County Community Action Inc. Board Election for a representative of Shelby, Sabine & San Augustine Counties will be held:

Monday November 19, 2018
10am-2pm
Tri-County Community Action (Front Office)
214 Nacogdoches St.
Center, Texas 75935

Tuesday November 20, 2018
10am-2pm

Tri-County Community Action
1012 Partin Rd.
San Augustine, Texas 75972

Candidates on Ballot:
Patsy Handy
Joyce Johnson
Sharon Ratcliff

If you have any questions please contact
LaTisha Hendrix @ (936)598-6315 Ext: 502

 Or

 Yolanda Neal Ext: 200

              

The San Augustine Main Street HomeComing and Sugar Plums Christmas Parade will be held on Nov. 30, 2018, at 5:30 p.m. 

Parade Rules:
 
Parade entry forms are due by 5 p.m. on November 29, 2018.  
Turn the entry forms in to Texas Star Retail on the square or the City of San Augustine Main Street Office in the county courthouse on the 3rd floor.   (exception Miss Merry Christmas Contestants turn their forms into San Augustine County Chamber of Commerce according to the designated time that the chamber has set up)

All entries must be at Boliver Street by 4:30 p.m. to check in and line up for instructions by parade officials.  (please enter Bolivar Street down by the Senior Center) (call for exceptions 936-201-9798)

All entries must stay in the line until the parade is over.

For the safety of the community, we ask that candy not be thrown.  Downtown Merchant sponsored candy bags distributed by Santa’s Elves along the route.       
Please decorate in a Christmas Holiday theme.   (Winter Wonderland)
Lighted and musical entries encouraged!  

Winter Wonderland ideas:    icicles, snow, snowman, sleds, sleighs, Christmas trees snowflakes, park benches, pole lights, snowcapped gingerbread houses, lights, lights, and more lights!      

Parade route:  

Start at Boliver Street turn right onto Columbia Street and continue straight down taking a left on Montgomery Street and circling past the City Cemetary and taking a left on Harrison Street and back up to the square taking a right onto Columbia Street and down to Bolivar Street.    This is the end of the parade.     

Parade participants can be picked up at the end of the parade route on Bolivar Street.       
Trophy Categories are:

Best Animal Unit  (horses, carriage, K-9, etc)
Best Marching Unit  (military, American Legion, VFW, ROTC, etc.) 
Best Marching Band  (SAISD, other )
Best Commercial Entry  (business advertising, nursing home, etc.)
Best Non-Commercial Float  (churches, Lions Club, Rotary, etc.)
Best Miss Merry Christmas (Queen, Princess, Duchess, other 1 per category)     

Center vs. Liberty at Woodville at 7 p.m. Friday 16, 2018 on broadcast on KDET 930 AM.

Joaquin vs. West Sabine at Nacogdoches High School Friday 16, 2108 at 7:30 p.m

Tenaha vs. Shelbyville at Waskom Friday 16, 2018 broadcast on KQBB 100.5 FM at 7 p.m.

Timpson vs. San Augustine at Henderson Friday 16, 2018 AT 7:30 p.m. broadcast on KXXE 92.5 FM.

Groveton vs. Garrison at Lufkin Saturday 17, 2018 at 7:30 p.m.

Logansport vs. Gueydan in Logansport Friday 16, 2018 at 7 p.m.

Video Coverage:

The Center High School career and college fair was held on 11-13-18 at Center ISD. The event started at 9:30 a.m. Teens from across the area gathered to learn of different education and work opportunities.

The event took place inside of the Center High School gym. Featuring local business, game wardens, the Center PD, and Center Broadcasting Company had a table also.

Click here for photos of the event.

Facebook Live Coverage:

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Postal Service expects to deliver nearly 15 billion pieces of mail and 900 million packages, for a total of nearly 16 billion cheerful deliveries this holiday season – the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.

“The Postal Service is ready to deliver for the holiday season.  We have increased our operating capacity to include additional transportation and extended our delivery windows,” said Megan J. Brennan, Postmaster General and CEO. “Our dedicated employees are proud to deliver more packages to homes than any other shipper.”

Once again the Postal Service is expanding its Sunday delivery operations to locations with high package volumes beginning Nov. 25. The Postal Service already delivers packages on Sundays in most major cities, and anticipates delivering more than 8 million packages on Sundays this December. Mail carriers will also deliver packages on Christmas Day in select locations.

Delivering for the Troops and Overseas

The Postal Service also processes mail for overseas Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of State (DoS) recipients. Interestingly, the DoD measures their mail volumes in pounds not pieces, and it’s expected that the Postal Service will process more than 16 million pounds of mail for DoD and DoS recipients between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve.

Busiest Mailing and Delivery Days

With an increase in early and online shopping for gifts, there is no longer a “busiest day” for holiday shipping. Instead, the Postal Service’s busiest time is now two weeks before Christmas. Starting the week of Dec. 10, customer traffic is expected to increase, and the Postal Service expects to deliver nearly 200 million packages per week during these two weeks. The week of Dec. 17-23 is predicted to be the busiest mailing, shipping and delivery week, when nearly 3 billion pieces of First-Class Mail, including greeting cards, will be processed and delivered.

Skip the Trip and Ship Online

Consumers don’t even have to leave home to ship their packages, simply visit usps.com. The Postal Service anticipates Dec. 17 will be the Postal Service’s busiest day online with more than 8 million consumers predicted to visit usps.com for help shipping that special holiday gift. It’s predicted that nearly 105 million consumers will visit our website between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. And usps.com is always open.

It’s estimated nearly 400,000 consumers will use the Click-N-Ship feature and other online services on Dec. 17 to order free Priority Mail boxes, print shipping labels, purchase postage and even request free next-day Package Pickup.

What’s New this Year

Informed Delivery is the Postal Service’s free daily digital preview of what’s coming to your mailbox. This holiday season, not only can you manage your packages and sneak a peek at cards headed your way, you can also see some exterior images of magazines and catalogs — all from your mobile app, dashboard, tablet or computer. Informed Delivery is one more way the Postal Service is helping you anticipate, communicate and celebrate this holiday season.

2018 Holiday Shipping Deadlines

The Postal Service recommends the following mailing and shipping deadlines*:

·       Dec. 4      – APO/FPO/DPO (ZIP Code 093 only) Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 11    – APO/FPO/DPO (all other ZIP Codes) Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 14    – USPS Retail Ground

·       Dec. 18    – APO/FPO/DPO (except ZIP Code 093) USPS Priority Mail Express

·       Dec. 20    – First-Class Mail (including greeting cards)

·       Dec. 20    – First-class packages (up to 15.99 ounces)

·       Dec. 20   –  Hawaii to mainland Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 20    – Priority Mail

·       Dec. 20    – Alaska to mainland Priority Mail and First-Class Mail

·       Dec. 22    – Alaska to mainland Priority Mail Express

·       Dec. 22    – Hawaii to mainland Priority Mail Express

·       Dec. 22    – Priority Mail Express

*Not a guarantee, unless otherwise noted. Dates are for estimated delivery before December 25. Actual delivery date may vary depending on origin, destination, Post Office acceptance date and time and other conditions. Some restrictions apply. For Priority Mail Express shipments mailed December 22 through December 25, the money-back guarantee applies only if the shipment was not delivered, or delivery was not attempted, within two (2) business days.

Additional news and information, including all domestic, international and military mailing and shipping deadlines, can be found at the Postal Service Holiday Newsroom at usps.com/holidaynews.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS, Nov. 6, 2018 – Texas Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Gary Six today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin mailing ballots to eligible agricultural producers for the 2018 FSA county committee elections on Monday, Nov. 5, 2018. Producers must return ballots to their local FSA offices by Dec. 3, 2018, to ensure their vote is counted. 

“County committee members represent the farmers, ranchers and foresters in our Texas communities,” said Six. “Producers elected to these committees have always played a vital role in local agricultural decisions. It is a valued partnership that helps us better understand the needs of the farmers and ranchers we serve.”

Nearly 7,700 FSA county committee members serve FSA offices nationwide. Each committee has three to 11 elected members who serve three-year terms of office. One-third of county committee seats are up for election each year. County committee members apply their knowledge and judgment to help FSA make important decisions on its commodity support programs; conservation programs; indemnity and disaster programs; emergency programs and eligibility.

Six said producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election. Farmers and ranchers who supervise and conduct the farming operations of an entire farm, but are not of legal voting age, may also be eligible to vote. 

Farmers and ranchers will begin receiving their ballots the week of Nov. 5. Ballots include the names of candidates running for the local committee election. Voters who did not receive a ballot can pick one up at their local FSA office. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked no later than Dec. 3, 2018. Newly elected committee members will take office Jan. 1, 2019.

For more information, visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov/elections.  You may also contact your local USDA Service Center or FSA office.  Visit http://www.farmers.gov to find an FSA office near you.

#

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

Tenaha ISD held their Veteran's Day program on 11-12-18 at 9:30 a.m. in the morning.  Local veterans were honored by the students of Tenaha.

For photos of the event click here:

To Whom It May Concern:

Every year, Shelby County Outreach Ministries, Inc. holds a Free
Community Thanksgiving Dinner. This gives people of this wonderful
Community of ours, that may not be able to spend this time with loved
Ones, a chance to have a great meal with amazing fellowship.

The Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be on November 22nd,
Thanksgiving Day, and lunch will be served from 11am to 1pm.

As with any community event, there are many variables unknown to us
Like the number of people that show up and how much food will be 
Needed.  We are asking all the local businesses and churches to help
Contribute to this Thanksgiving Dinner to ensure that we have enough 
Food to feed everyone.

We appreciate your past donations for this annual event.  If you feel
You can contribute, please contact our office at 936-598-4990 or
936-598-7768.

Thank you and God Bless,

Sherry Harding
Executive  Director

The local VFW Post 8904 and the Auxillary held a special Veteran's Day program in honor of the 100 year anniversary of the end of WWI. 

For the photo gallery click here. 

SHELBY COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigated a two vehicle fatal crash on the morning of 11-11-18 on US 96, about 10 miles south of Center. The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 6 a.m., a 2011 Buick passenger car was traveling south on US 96. For unknown reasons the Buick crossed over the center of the roadway and into the northbound lanes where it was struck by a 2017 Peterbilt truck tractor semi-trailer.

The driver of the Buick is identified as 23-year-old Marquis Musco from Shreveport, LA. Musco was pronounced deceased at the scene by a Shelby County Justice of the Peace.

The driver of the Peterbilt is identified as 26-year-old John Cooper from Mansfield, LA. Cooper was transported to Nacogdoches Medical Center in Center where he was reportedly treated and released.

This crash remains under investigation. No additional information is available at this time.

Center City Council meeting on 11-12-18 at 5 p.m. 

Click here for the agenda and city updates:

Center, TX - The "Shelby County Appreciation for our Veterans Ride" was held Saturday afternoon. Veterans and supporters gathered at the historic 1885 Shelby County courthouse. 

Notice is hereby given that a Regular meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 14th day of November, 2018 at 9:30 a.m. in the Courtroom of the Shelby County Courthouse at 200 San Augustine Street, Center, Shelby County, Texas to deliberate and consider action on the following items:

1.Approve the minutes if the October 3, 2018 Special meeting, October 10, 2018 Regular meeting, October 17, 2018 Special meeting, October 24, 2018 Special meeting, and October 31, 2018 Special meeting.

2.Approve and pay weekly expenses.

3.Approve Officers’ Report.

4.Approve and pay current payroll.

5.Public comments on Agenda item.

6.Canvas votes for the November 6th General Election.

7.Accept or reject sealed bids for 2005 Chev. Trailblazer and 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew 4x2 for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

8.Adjourn.

On November 8, 2018, at about 12:40 a.m., deputies with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office Directed Patrol Unit conducted a traffic stop that resulted in a narcotics arrest.  Deputies stopped a vehicle on Highway 171 in Stonewall, LA for a traffic violation and made contact with the driver, later identified as Cordarrel Cooksey (B/M – DOB: 06/28/1990) of Shreveport, LA.  During speaking with the driver, deputies noticed what they believed to be marijuana in plain view on the floor board of the vehicle.  Consent was requested to search the vehicle but the driver refused.  Deputies advised Cooksey they had observed what they believed to be marijuana in plain view, explained his Miranda rights, and conducted a vehicle search.  Deputies located digital scales, over $2,000 in cash, a pill bottle with no prescription label that contained pills believed to be ecstasy, a large glass jar containing suspected marijuana, and large sandwich bags containing additional pills believed to be ecstasy.  A total of over 700 grams of ecstasy and 2.5 ounces of suspected marijuana were located in the vehicle Cooksey was operating.  Deputies seized all of the evidence and currency and placed Cooksey under arrest.  He was later transported to DeSoto Parish Detention Center and booked on the following charges:

No Proof of Insurance

License Plate Light

Possession of Schedule I MDMA (Ecstasy) with Intent to Distribute

Possession of Schedule I Marijuana with Intent to Distribute

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the above-named Commissioners Court will be held on 
Tuesday, the 13th day of November 2018 at 8:00 o’clock A.M.

Click here for the agenda:

The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds producers to review available USDA crop risk protection options, including federal crop insurance and Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) coverage, before the crop deadline of December 1, 2018. 

Federal crop insurance covers crop losses from natural adversities such as drought, hail and excessive moisture. NAP covers losses from natural disasters on crops for which no permanent federal crop insurance program is available, including perennial grass forage and grazing crops, fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, floriculture, ornamental nursery, aquaculture, turf grass, ginseng, honey, syrup, bioenergy, and industrial crops.

Federal crop insurance coverage is sold and delivered solely through private insurance agents. Agent lists are available at all USDA Service Centers or at USDA’s online Agent Locator: http://prodwebnlb.rma.usda.gov/apps/AgentLocator/#. Producers can use the USDA Cost Estimator, https://ewebapp.rma.usda.gov/apps/costestimator/Default.aspx, to predict insurance premium costs.

December 1, 2018 is the deadline to purchase NAP for grass and mixed forage for grazing or hay.

   
For more information on NAP, service fees, premiums and sales deadlines, contact your local FSA office at 936-564-5891 extension 2 or visit the web at www.fsa.usda.gov/nap.

SHELBY COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigated a one-vehicle crash yesterday evening 11-8-18 on US 96, about one mile north of County Road 3774. 

Photos by: Ray Fountain

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 7:15 p.m., a 2001 Dodge pickup was traveling south on US 96; towing two trailers. The pickup was reportedly traveling at an unsafe speed and left the roadway to the right and traveled down a grassy hill off the roadway. 

The driver is identified as 79-year-old Lige Horton Jr., from Kirbyville, TX.  Horton was not reportedly injured during the crash.  No additional information is available at this time.

State Representative Chris Paddie will be at the active Shelby County Courthouse on San Augustine Street 2nd floor community room at 1 p.m. today 11-9-18.  

From Chris Paddie:

I hope that everyone is able to join us at one of these town hall meetings, however, if you are not able to there are several ways to get in touch with me either before or during the legislative session. I encourage everyone to stay connected as we move through the legislative session, as we will be dealing with many important issues, such as school finance and property tax reform.

On Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018, the Center Fire Department received a call regarding a man who fell out of a deer stand.  The individual was in pain and thought he might have broken something.  

The accident occurred on County Road 1006 off of HWY 96 South.  The Center Fire Department and other local emergency services responded to the scene.  The man was transported by an ambulance service to the hospital in Center, TX.  

Yesterday 11-8-18 at around 1 p.m. there was a two-vehicle accident that occurred near Steel Building Supply in Center, TX.  According to a DPS officer no one was harmed in the wreck. 

UPDATE:

At approximately 12:29 p.m. on 11-8-18 Mr. Daniel Perry McSwain 75 of Center was driving a silver Chevrolet when he was struck by a Nissan Path Finder driven by Dianne Walker 72 of Center.  Both vehicles suffered major front end damage as a result of the collision.  Both drivers were taken by Allegiance Mobile Health former ACE EMS to Nacogdoches Medical Center.   

A two-vehicle wreck occurred outside of Center, Texas at the intersection of Loop 500 and HWY 7 on 11-8-18 at around 1 p.m. 

The Center Fire Department and Center Police Department formed a traffic blockade while Allegiance mobile health formerly ACE EMS responded. 

Wrecker services responded and the road was cleared and traffic resumed, more information to follow as is released by the Center Police Department.  

As a mark of solemn respect for the victims of the terrible act of violence perpetrated in Thousand Oaks, California, on November 7, 2018, the President of the United States has issued a Proclamation that the Flag of the United States be flown at half staff until sunset, Saturday, November 10, 2018.

All flags flying with the US Flag should also be lowered.  If you have US Flag that remains outdoors and cannot be lowered, respect can be shown by tying a black ribbon or cord to the top of the staff.

On November 3, 2018 students from Self Defense America went to a Karate Championship tournament in Shreveport LA and represented Shelby County! In the first photo we have from left to right;

Zoey Deas with a 5th in Chanbara Fighting, Caitlyn Madden with a Bronze in Point Sparring, Emma Madden with a Bronze in Point Sparring, Rex Payne with a Silver in Chanbara fighting, Logan Galindo with a 1st trophy in Speciality Forms, and 2 Bronzes  in Weapons and Forms, Zac Payne placed 5th in Chanbara and Point Sparring and Ryder Moody placed 1st place trophy in Point Sparring, Silver in Chanbara and Silver in Forms. Congratulations to you all for your hard work.

On Nov. 5, 2018, officers with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety went to a residence at 1153 FM 2026 in Center in response to reported illegal activity at the residence.

An SCSO investigator and DPS officer arrived on scene and identified one individual as Roy Denver Byrd JR. Byrd who was known to have an active warrant for Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle (SJF). Byrd was taken into custody without incident.

Further information obtained on scene led to the led officers to a consensual search by the occupant of the residence and surrounding property. During the search, Juan Tramaine Tutt was found hiding in a closet in the residence. Tutt had multiple warrants out of Shelby County and was taken into custody without incident.

During the search in the closet area, approximately 2 ¼ ounces of marijuana was located. Officers also recovered eight ounces of suspected methamphetamine. Tutt also had $1,100 in cash that is believed to be derived from the sale of illegal narcotics. Seizure paperwork will be filed on the money.

At the time Byrd was booked into the county jail; additional illegal narcotics were found on his person. A warrant for Prohibited Substance in a Correctional Facility (F-3) was obtained and served on Byrd.

Multiple warrants are forthcoming for Manufacturing/Delivery of a Controlled Substance as well as other charges on multiple individuals.

The SCSO extends sincere thanks to the Texas Department of Public Safety for their assistance.

The Shelby County Commissioner’s Court met this morning 11-7-18 and took the following actions:

1.  They approved and paid weekly expenses and additional expenses.

2.  No public comments on Agenda items.

3. They discussed and approved the purchase of a small trailer for Commissioner Pct.3.

4. They approved a new lease with Pitney Bowes for the postage machine, Quarterly at 813.69.

5.  They approved the 2018 Resolution for the Indigent Defense Grant Program.

6.  They adjourned.

State Senator, District 3

Robert Nichols (Rep) 5,924

Shirley Layton (Dem) 1,432

Bruces Quarles (Lib) 44

Total: 7,400

State Representative, District 9

Chris Paddie (Rep) 6,208

Total: 6,208

Justice 12th Court of Appeals District, Pl 3

Greg Neeley 6,114

Total: 6,114

County Judge

Allison Harbison (Rep) 6,314

Total: 6,314

District Clerk

Lori Oliver (Rep) 6,290

Total: 6,290

County Clerk

Jennifer Fountain (Rep) 6,265

Total: 6,265

County Treasurer 

Ann Blackwell (Rep) 6,167

Total: 6,167

County Commissioner Pct. 4

Jimmy Lout (Rep) 1,293

Total: 1,293

Justice of the Peace Pct. 1

Melissa Crouch (Rep) 2,846

Total: 2,846

Justice of the Peace Pct. 2

Marla Denby (Rep) 944

Total: 944

Justice of the Peace Pct. 3

Margie Anderson (Rep) 1,109

Total: 1,109

Justice of the Peace Pct. 4

Jackie Kirkwood (Rep) 400

Jenny L. Hicks (Dem) 148

Total: 548

Justice of the Peace Pct. 5

Tracy Broadway (Rep) 674

Write-In (Mike Crouch) 328

Total: 1,002

City of Center Council Member, Dist 2

Rogers Yarborough 68

Jerry G. Lathan 126

Total: 194

Center ISD School Board

Joyce Edwards 620

Daphne LaRock 1,482

Deuce Wulf 1,350

Greg Hubbard 1,222

John Henry Holloway 1,434

Traci Willoughby 1,618

The Tenaha Police Department will be sending a patch to a young boy battling cancer who enjoys collecting law enforcement patches.  

The Tenaha Police Department said, "A few individuals tagged us in a post of a young man who is battling cancer. The post stated the boy was collecting police patches and is a big fan of law enforcement. We are honored, here at the Tenaha Police Department, to send this young man a patch of our very own to add to his collection. Please feel free to share this post so that other agencies may see this post and be able to bring a smile to this young mans face by receiving their agencies patch as well." 

On October 30, 2018 at approximately 0745 hours Sgt. Knowlton, of the Center Police Department, conducted a traffic stop on Arcadia Road with a vehicle for a traffic violation.  During the traffic stop the driver of the vehicle was identified as Troy Anderson and was known by Sgt. Knowlton to have an active parole warrant for his arrest.  After instructing Mr. Anderson to exit his vehicle, Mr. Anderson placed his vehicle in drive and sped away from the scene.  Pursuit of the vehicle was then conducted with the pursuit ending on CR 1490- after the suspect vehicle became stuck in a ditch. Mr. Anderson then fled on foot where he was apprehended a short time later by K9 Elliott.  Suspected methamphetamine was later recovered from the suspect’s vehicle and a firearm- that was reported as stolen out of Timpson, TX- was recovered after it was removed from Mr. Anderson right hand by K9 Elliott.  Mr. Anderson was subsequently arrested and booked into the jail for the following charges:

1.Delivery of a Controlled Substance PG1>=1G<4G
2.Evading Arrest/Detention w/ a Motor Vehicle 
3.Tampering/Fabricating Physical Evidence w/ Intent to Impair
4.Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
5.Parole Warrant

Additional charges are expected in this case.

(NACOGDOCHES)  November 6, 2018 – Ballots for the 2018 Angelina-Nacogdoches-Trinity-San Augustine-Shelby Farm Service Agency county committee elections began on Monday, Nov. 5, with the mailing of ballots to eligible voters.    The deadline to return the ballots to local FSA offices is Dec.3, 2018.

Eligible voters who do not receive ballots can obtain ballots from their local USDA Service Center.  Dec. 3, 2018, is the last day for voters to submit ballots in person to local USDA Service Centers. Ballots returned by mail must also be postmarked no later than Dec. 3. Newly elected committee members and their alternates will take office Jan. 1, 2019.

Producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election.  Farmers and ranchers who supervise and conduct the farming operations of an entire farm, but are not of legal voting age, also may be eligible to vote.

Committees are a critical component of the day-to-day operations of FSA.  They are comprised of three to 11 members who serve three-year terms.  Farmers and Ranchers who are electd to serve apply their judgement and knowledge to help with the decisions necessary to administer FSA programs in their counties, ensuring that the needs of local producers are met.

For more information, visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov/elections. You may also contact your local USDA Service Center or FSA office. Visit http://offices.usda.gov to find an FSA office near you.

Looks like we will alternate upper air disturbances that will give rain chances and Highs with dry air to allow much cooler weather by Thursday. More sunshine on the way for this week.

Monday - 58/77, wind 10-12 mph, clouds begin to form by 10 with rain and some thunder by 1 pm 1/10"

Tuesday - Am clouds, 65/80, light winds
Wednesday - 57/75, clouds early, T-storms by noon, 1/0"
Thursday - 45/67,Afternoon T-showers, 1/2"
FRIDAY - clouds early, chilly  low of 41/56 Hi with noontime sunshine, light winds for Wolf Football
Saturday - Sunny, chilly again, 42/58
Sunday - 46/53 with lots of sun for Veterans Day
Monday - Holiday to celebrate Veterans Day, Sunny, 44/61
Tuesday - 39/59 Sun shine

The polls close at 7 p.m. tonight 11-6-18.   

On Saturday, October 27, the Timpson High School Marching Band competed at the UIL Area C Marching Band Contest held at Pine Tree’s Pirate Stadium in Longview.  Fifteen bands competed in class 2A, and the Bear Band placed second. The top three bands from the area contest advanced to the state contest, which will be held at the Alamodome in San Antonio on November 6.  This is the second year in a row for the Bear Band to advance to the State Marching Contest!  The Carlisle and Union Grove bands will join Timpson in representing Area C at the Alamodome.  Timpson will perform at 9:00am on Tuesday morning. There will be 17 class 2A bands competing, and the top 7 bands from the preliminary round will perform again on Tuesday evening for the final round.    

Some of the judges’ comments from the Area Contest were:
“Impressive technique!”
“Difficult marches played well. Impressive music selection.”
“What a treat to see this kind of superb marching!”
“Tasty, supportive percussion.”
“Expressive control. Great finish!”
“Wonderful step size and posture!”
“Your ranks were exemplary.”

“Thanks for a musical treat, and a great look of posture and elegance.  I loved it!”

The band will leave this Monday morning for their trip to State and will have a rehearsal that afternoon followed by dinner in the Alamo City.  The band is excited to see San Antonio again and visit The Alamo and other attractions.  Marching in the Alamodome will certainly be the highlight of the trip!  At the end of the contest, the band will visit Market Square and have dinner at the famous Mi Tierra Café y Panderia!  Great job and good luck, Bear Band! 

Veterans Day, Sunday, November 11, 2018 is fast approaching.  Shelby County Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Auxiliary cordially invites you to attend their remembrance program that will be held in the 1885 Historic Courthouse at 1 pm that day.  The 100th anniversary that ended World War I will be celebrated as will the lives of 884 citizens from Shelby County who served during that time.

During the past year the Auxiliary and other citizens from the community have completed the knitting of over 2500 remembrance poppies for their “Weeping Window” that will be on display that day.  Flowing out of one of the windows will be knitted poppies of; red, representing blood shed by Americans in the World War; white for the nurses who served, tended to the sick and wounded and died from disease, accidents and enemy action; and purple for the animals who also served and died in the chaos of war.

The Weeping Window should make a great photo opportunity to remember those who served a century ago. 

A slight risk for severe thunderstorms remains possible Monday through Monday evening primarily over Southwest Arkansas, North Louisiana, and extreme Eastern Texas. However, the new suite of model data suggests that the greatest and more organized severe weather threat will remain to our north and east Monday afternoon and evening.   

Please continue to monitor the latest forecasts and information from your favorite weather sources, as there remains a threat for severe thunderstorms Monday. Damaging winds, isolated tornadoes, and brief heavy rainfall remain possible in the stronger storms before they diminish from west to east Monday evening.    

Center NAMMB Ratings: 1-1-1-1-1 Congratulations Roughrider Band, you have earned a first division from every judge so far this year.

Timpson Lady Bears Volleyball defeated Rivercrest for the area championship Thursday night in Union Grove to advance to the regional quarter-finals.

The Timpson Lady Bears Volleyball will take on North Hopkins in the Regional Quarter Final game on Monday, November, 5th at Mabank High School. 6:30 p.m.  

At the NAMMB (National Association of Military Marching Bands) contest in Nacogdoches Saturday at SFA, the Timpson Bear Band won the Bobby Goff Superior Performance Award, and First Place in Class 2A. 

Carlisle placed 2nd and Beckville placed 3rd. Timpson will now perform at the UIL State Marching Contest at 9 a.m. Tuesday in San Antonio ar the Alamodome. This will be a prelim performance.

SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigated a one-vehicle crash early this morning 11-4-18 on SH 147, about three miles south of San Augustine.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 12:30 a.m., a 2014 Chevrolet passenger car was traveling north on SH 147. The driver was reportedly traveling at an unsafe speed when the vehicle drove off the roadway to the right, overcorrected to the left and crossed back over the roadway to the left and struck a tree.

The driver of the vehicle is identified as 21-year-old Octavian Burrell, from San Augustine. Burrell was pronounced deceased at the scene by a San Augustine County Justice of the Peace.

This crash remains under investigation. No additional information is available at this time.

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County

Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 7th day of November 2018 at 9:30 a.m. in the Courtroom of the Shelby County Courthouse at 200 San Augustine Street, Center, Shelby County, Texas to deliberate and consider action on the following items:

1. Approve and pay weekly expenses.

2. Public comments on Agenda item.

3. Discuss and possibly approve a purchase of a small trailer for Commissioner Pct.3.

4. Discuss and possibly approve a new lease with Pitney Bowes for the postage machine, Quarterly at 813.69.

5. Approve the 2018 Resolution for the Indigent Defense Grant Program.

6. Adjourn.

The City Council of Joaquin will meet in regular session Monday, November 5, 2018
4:00 p.m. at The Joaquin City Hall located at 124 North Preston, Joaquin, Texas.

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest.

2.Discussion & Council Action on purchase of 250 KW generator and 85 KW generator for water plant.

3.Discussion & Council Action on approval of installation bid for Water Plant generator installation.

4.Discussion & Council Action on Inter-local agreement with Buy-Board.

5.Adjournment.

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is taking sealed bids on:

2005 Chev. Trailblazer with 87,000 miles $3000. Min bid

2004 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4x2 with 222,000 miles $3000.min. bid

Both vehicles are in good running condition and are sold as is.

Both vehicles may be seen at the Sheriff’s Office

ALL SEALED BIDS ARE TO BE DROPED OFF AT THE SHELBY COUNTY JUDGES OFFICE AT 200 San

Augustine Street Center Texas 75935

The Deadline is November 13th, 2018.

Some of these monthly totals are off due to outages or new installation dates. Some like mine have only missed a couple of days where I had to use rain in my manual gauges. Just to give you a reference point to average yearly totals, my average annual rainfall total over the last 38 years is 52.12 inches that was taken from a stack of "Big Chief Tablet" records by Jerry Nickerson and Sam Malone. 

Individual years has seen some very wide swings in the years from VERY DRY to VERY WET. An example: the last 12 years the swing has been 2010's drought 31.85 inches to 2009's wet 55.65 inches.  I will try to dig back thru and find  the month and years with the Highest and Lowest rain totals. I do remember one of the highest was something like 17 inches above normal.

The Personal Weather Stations in GREEN are the 6 PWS that are located in San Augustine County.

Center KTXCENTE16  10.97 inches {Year 50.55}
Harmony Hill  KTXSANAU10  No report. possible outage. 
Deep East Texas  KTXSANAU9    11.51 {year 40.59} 2 weeks outage 4 Davis eqpt repair
Ayish Bayou North  KTXSANAU12  7.78 inches  {27.03} recent install
San Augustine  KTXSANAU6   6.81 inches {year 49.13} 3 day outage-battery backup failure
Swanson Hill  KTXGOOD2 8.15 inches {year 27.69}  
Broaddus  KTXBROAD2 6.95 inches {52.60 currently down} 
Etoile    KTXETIOL2   6.22 inches {year 38.22} down due to lightning hit earlier in the year 

 
Santa Claus recently delivered an invitation to Dr. Jheri-Lynn McSwain to serve as Grand Marshal of the 19th annual Santa’s Christmas Parade. The parade, presented by Shelby Savings Bank, will be held on Saturday, December 1, 2018 beginning at 6:00 p.m.  

Dr. Jheri-Lynn McSwain was the recipient of the 2018 Distinguished Service Award and was recognized at the annual Shelby County Chamber of Commerce awards banquet for her contributions in and around Shelby County.  

Categories for the 2018, ”A “Mardi Gras Christmas” themed parade will include Individuals, Schools, Businesses, Churches and Civic Organizations.  Parade participants are asked to decorate with lights for the nighttime parade and have audible Christmas music playing. There are applicable rules and considerations for entries with horses. Judges will award cash prizes to the top three places in each category, First $100, Second $50 and Third $25 and the Overall Best in Show Float will receive $250 cash prize.

Parade float entry registration is free and completed applications must be returned to the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce office by the entry deadline on Wednesday, November 21, 2018.  Applications for the parade, vendor space and entry rules are now available at the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce office located at 100 Courthouse Square, A-101 on the historic downtown Center square or online at  www.shelbycountychamber.com.  

For more information please contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce at (936) 598-3682 or info@shelbycountychamber.com.

A big THANK YOU to everyone that participated this year!

And a big CONGRATULATIONS to all of the Finalists!

We have two overall winners! The winner of the Facebook voting and the winner that was voted on by judges.

Our Facebook winner this year for the $100 gift card is Brylee Rogers and her Witch Pumpkin!

Our Judges voting winner this year for the $100 gift card is Jacie Keele and her Chicken/Pen Pumpkin!

The two runner ups for the Facebook voting are:

In second place for the $50 gift card is Raylee Erwin!

In third place for the $25 gift card is Madilynn Roe!

Congratulations to everyone involved, we had an awesome turn out this year and we look forward to next year!

Please come in to claim your prize as soon as possible!