Hopefully the Briefing slides will be posted soon, but until they are the following graphic is an overview of our SPRING like weather we will experience over the next 7 days(70's for Highs, mid 50"for lows) until next Tuesday thru Thursday when the next cold front visits us with a return to cooler temps. The weather pattern is a series of upper air weak Lows that will give us much warmer conditions with some daily opportunities for light ran of.05 to maybe 1/10 inch each day or a total of 1-1.5 inches for us here in Deep East Texas.

Tri-County Community Action, Inc. will hold a Board Meeting on Monday February 4,in Center, Texas. The meeting will be held at the Central Office located (214 Nacogdoches St.) Center, Texas. The meeting will begin at 6:30pm. For more information call (936)598-6315 ext:201.

Center Broadcasting Company traveled to Center High School to met with their new Athletic Director Scott Ponder.

Video Interview:

LUFKIN – Did you know that a crash with minor vehicle damage and where no one is injured
can be moved off the main traveled portion of the roadway?

Texas law states, “If an accident occurs on a main lane, ramp, shoulder, median or adjacent area
of a freeway in a metropolitan area and each vehicle involved can be normally and safely driven,
each operator shall move the operator’s vehicle as soon as possible to a designated accident
investigation site, if available, a location on the frontage road, the nearest suitable cross street or
other suitable location.” (Texas Transportation Code, Section 550.022)

Moving a fender bender crash where there are no injuries helps keep you safe, reduces crashrelated traffic congestion and improves safety conditions for yourself and first responders.

“In light of the numerous vehicle crashes that occur in Texas and across the nation on a daily
basis, we encourage motorists to move minor crashes where there are no injuries to a safe
location” said Highway Patrol Captain Michelle McDaniel. “In addition to complying with the
law, moving fender bender crashes from the regular traffic flow reduces the number of secondary
crashes.”

For every minute a lane is closed or blocked, the risk of a secondary crash increases
significantly. Moving minor crashes where no one is injured improves the safety of everyone.

The following Dragon Football players were selected for the All-East Texas Football Team:

Sawyer Hendricks - Linebacker
AJ Cartwright - Defensive End
Jaylon Brinson- Running Back

The East Texas football team is comprised of players from 1A - 6A from as far south as Newton up to Texarkana, west to Corsicana and all along the Louisiana Border.

submitted by: Coach Benbow

(Nacogdoches, Tx)  The Nacogdoches Police Department has made an arrest in the homicide that occurred in the 600 block of Old Tyler Rd on November 18th 2018.   

On January 18th 2019 Officers arrested Johnathan Dewayne Wilson Jr 19 years of age from Nacogdoches, Tx on the charge of Deadly Conduct F-3.  This arrest is in connection to the shooting death of Lyric Polley a 21 year old from Nacogdoches, Tx.  Detectives are actively working to identify more suspects in this case. 

This is an open investigation and Detectives encourage anyone with information to contact the Nacogdoches Police Department at (936) 559-2607. 

The Shelby County Commissioners Court met on Jan. 30, 2019, at the active Shelby County Courthouse located at 200 San Augustine Street in Center, Texas. The court opened with a prayer lead by Commissioner Charles Barr and took the following actions:

1. They approved and paid weekly expenses.

2. No public comment where given.

3. They moved into a closed executive session.

4. They reopened the meeting to the public.

5. They discussed and took action on an item from the executive session, they approved the creation of a position an administrative assistant for Judge James Payne Jr. 

6. The court adjourned.

Free admission tickets available at Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS – The SFA Ladyjack and Lumberjack basketball teams are ready for the match up with Lamar University at Cram the Coliseum on Saturday, Feb. 9.  The women's game begins at 2 p.m., and the men's game will start at 4:30 p.m. in the William R. Johnson Coliseum at the intersection of E. College St. and University Dr.

 
"Cram the Coliseum is the perfect opportunity for the community to support the partnership the Nacogdoches County Chamber has with SFA Athletics," said Ted Smith, Chamber Vice Chairman Community Development. "Plus, it's an opportunity to pack the place and show the Cardinals that SFA has a solid fan base." 

All Nacogdoches County Chamber members received 10 free admission tickets in the February mail packet. 

"The tickets can be shared with anyone, including employees and coworkers, clients and customers, family and friend. A limited number of tickets are available and ready for pick up at the Chamber," Smith said.

Cram the Coliseum tickets are compliments of SFA Athletics Department. For all SFA athletic event schedules, please visit www.sfajacks.com. Go to www.nacogdoches.org for more information about this and other Nacogdoches County Chamber events or call 936-560-5533.

San Augustine - Deep East Texas Council of Government (DETCOG) Board Members received a report on the Retired and Senior Volunteers Program (RSVP) activities at their January meeting.  RSVP Program Director Renee Ricks started by reporting on the program’s food drive held in honor of the MLK Day of Service.  It’s estimated that up to 25% of the population of DETCOG Counties are struggling to avoid hunger.  Board Members had been asked to bring a non-perishable food item to the meeting.  Those contributions will to go to Care & Share of San Augustine, which feeds approximately 600 families per month and provides backpacks filled with food to Headstart children every weekend. 

The report on the RSVP program also included the donation of a $15,000 check to DETCOG by the RSVP Advisory Council.  The council raises funds by sponsoring trips throughout the year to places as diverse as Alaska and Vermont.  The money raised by the Council will be used as matching funds for the RSVP program operating grant.

Senior Corps RSVP is America’s largest volunteer network for people 55 and over, with more than 300,000 volunteers nationwide. RSVP Volunteers choose how and where they want to serve and how much time they want to give. If you interested in volunteering in your community, or just want more information about the RSVP Program in Deep East Texas, contact Renee Ricks at (409) 384-5704 ext. 5402.

Born and raised in Hemphill, Texas, Judge James Payne Jr. Is no newcomer when it comes to law. His father was the Sabine County Attorney and practiced law for decades. 

Payne has earned a business degree from the University of Texas and a law degree from the University of Houston.

Raised by a practitioner of the law Payne was inspired to follow in his father’s footsteps and began a 24-year long legal career working on civil cases with the Fairchild Price law firm.

After learning of Judge Mitchel plans to retire, Payne decided to run for the position 273rd District Judge. Payne wanted a change in life and thought that he could do some good as a judge.   

BEAUMONT, Texas — A 33-year-old Jasper, Texas woman has been sentenced to 320 months in federal prison for child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown today.

Janel Saphire Trahan pleaded guilty on Sep. 13, 2018 to production of child pornography and was sentenced to 320 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield on Jan. 23, 2019.

According to information presented in court, on Jan. 13, 2018, Trahan took a photograph of herself performing oral sex on a 2-year-old female and sent it to her husband.  On Jan. 14, 2018, she sent the photograph in a private group chat using a mobile instant messaging application.  Trahan was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 7, 2018.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

This case was investigated by HSI-ICE, the Beaumont Police Department and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher T. Tortorice.

San Augustine - Deep East Texas Council of Government (DETCOG) Board Members received a report on the agency’s Pilot Transit Voucher Program conducted in Sabine, San Augustine, Jasper, Newton and Tyler Counties. The presentation was made by Natalie Villwock-Witte from the Western Transportation Institute (WTI) at Montana State University which consulted on the project.

Willock-Witte started her presentation with consumer spending statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics showing that consumers were spending 16% of their income on transportation in 2016. She made the point that low income households often had trouble paying for housing, food and medicine.  The most recent American Community Survey showed that 6% of the households in DETCOG Counties did not have a vehicle at their disposal.  The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Transit Voucher Program was started because the low-income seniors in the region had difficulty accessing health care, were often socially isolated and had a lack of health food choices.  Some participated in the AAA “meals-on-wheels” program because of this.

Sabine, San Augustine, Jasper, Newton and Tyler Counties were chosen for the pilot program because they had small populations with high percentages of seniors, veterans and people with disabilities. They also have average household incomes twenty-five percent below the state average, high percentages of the disabled and no existing public transportation options.

Participants in the Pilot Transit Voucher Program had to be 60 years of age or older.  They were given vouchers worth $150.00 a month ($1,800 a year) which they could use for medical appointments, grocery shopping, personal care appointments, socializing, banking or trips to the post office.  The program started in May 2018 with rides initially the provided by two regional Medicaid Transportation companies and qualified private individuals serving as volunteers.  DETCOG paid over $5,000.00 in one month for rides for the fifty participants that had been qualified and enrolled in the program by November.

The transit vouchers were used mostly for medical (44%), shopping (36%) and social trips (11%).  Additional benefits from the program came from DETCOG staff being able to identify other programs the applicants qualified for, like SNAP (Food Stamps) and to allow participants to access those benefits.

Willock-Witte concluded her report saying that the program was continuing, but was dependant on funds available to DETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging and thereby restricted to individuals 60 years of age and older.  She said that diversifying funding sources would be important to the future of the program and to be able to expand it to address the needs of those younger than sixty.

They are issuing a boil water notice for the San Augustine Rural WSC because of problems at Water Plant #4.

BEAUMONT, Texas – A 25-year-old Beaumont, Texas man appeared in federal court on firearms and drug trafficking charges in the Eastern District of Texas announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown today.

James Anthony Madrid had an initial appearance today pursuant to a criminal complaint issued by the U.S. District Court charging him with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

According to information presented in court, on Jan. 24, 2019, local and federal agents responded to the 8700 block of Newfield Lane in Beaumont, Texas, in connection with a shooting.  Officers discovered Madrid’s one-year-old child and girlfriend had been shot. An investigation revealed Madrid had shot the girlfriend and child as individuals attempted to break into the house in connection with Madrid’s drug trafficking activities.  A search of the home revealed approximately 1.5 kilograms of cocaine, evidence of drug distribution and several firearms. 

If convicted, Madrid faces up to Life in federal prison.

This case is being investigated by the Beaumont Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell James.

It is important to note that a complaint, arrest, or indictment should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

AUSTIN – With the excitement of Super Bowl weekend just days away, the Texas Department of Transportation is urging football fans to “Plan While You Can”  for a sober ride before enjoying game-day watch parties and other activities that may involve alcohol.  

“Super Bowl weekend is a potentially dangerous time for alcohol-related crashes,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “With so many transportation options available, there is absolutely no excuse to drink and drive. If you plan to drink alcohol, plan ahead for a sober ride. It’s a game plan that could save a life.”

During last year’s Super Bowl weekend,* there were 258 alcohol-related crashes in Texas. Those crashes killed eight people and seriously injured another 21.

Drivers under the influence of alcohol not only risk killing or seriously injuring themselves or others, but also face up to $17,000 in fines and fees, jail time and loss of their driver’s license. As always, TxDOT urges drivers to find alternatives to drinking and driving, such as:

Designating a sober driver.
Contacting a cab or ride-share service.
Using mass transit.
Asking a sober friend or family member for a ride home.
Spending the night.
 

Since Nov. 7, 2000, at least one person has died on Texas roadways every single day. In an effort to end this deadly streak, TxDOT encourages everyone to drive sober, buckle up, slow down, drive to conditions and respect other drivers. Driver education efforts such as “Plan While You Can” are key components of TxDOT’s #EndTheStreakTX awareness campaign that reminds drivers it’s a shared responsibility among all of us to keep our roads safe. Please help us end the streak. 

Jury selection was set to begin today in the trial of Raymond John Fleming, Jr. in the 273rd Judicial District Court of Shelby County, Honorable James A. Payne, Jr. presiding. Mr. Fleming was charged by indictment with four felony crimes: two counts of forgery, one count of forgery against the elderly, and one count of fraudulent use or possession of identifying information against the elderly.

Mr. Fleming was accused of stealing checks from people’s mailboxes, altering them to be made payable to himself, and then cashing them. Just before the start of jury qualification, however, Mr. Fleming decided to waive his right to a jury trial on the question of his guilt/innocence, and he entered a plea of “guilty” in each case. Mr. Fleming has requested that the Court assess his punishment – as such, Judge Payne order a Pre-Sentence Investigation be conducted for Mr. Fleming. The punishment trial will take place later this month on a date to be determined by the Court.

The backup cases to Mr. Fleming’s case were resolved, had a lawyer preferentially set elsewhere, or had a defendant that did not show up (with a new arrest warrant being issued). There was a very good turnout by the jurors for Mr. Fleming’s trial. Judge Payne and Shelby County District Attorney Stephen Shires thanked them for coming in and explained that their service, though brief, was invaluable.

On Jan. 28, 2019 at 10 a.m. the Shelby County VFW Post 8904 and the auxiliary hosted a memorial ceremony in honor of those who served and died in Vietnam. The event had a decent turnout, as Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian attended today's ceremony.

Wayne Christian

Video Coverage:

The names of the Shelby County Vietnam veterans that died in service to our country were read and a memorial wreath was placed on the veterans memorial.

Taps was played and the ceremony came to a close. After the ceremony, the group had a photo taken by the local media and for VFW publication.

For the photo gallery click here:

Center Basketball Score:

Center 44

Huntington 36

The Paris Peace Accord ending the Vietnam War was signed on January 27, 1973, and was followed by the withdrawal of the remaining American troops. The terms of the accord called for a complete ceasefire in South Vietnam, allowed North Vietnamese forces to retain the territory they had captured, release of US prisoners of war, and called for both sides to find a political solution to the conflict. As an enticement to South Vietnam, President Nixon offered US airpower to enforce the peace terms (this was stopped in December 1974 when Congress cut off all military aid to South Vietnam).

More than 58,000 Americans gave their lives in the Vietnam War and there are still 1,590 missing in action.

In observance of the 46th Anniversary Shelby County Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8904 and the Auxiliary will host a Memorial Observance for those who served in the Vietnam War.  A wreath laying will take place at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 28h, 2019 at the Veterans Memorial on the grounds of the 1885 Historic Shelby County Courthouse.

The names of ten Shelby County Veterans who were killed in action during the Vietnam War will be read.  They are:  Ted W. Adams, William L. “Shorty” Andrews, Jimmy Barnett, Mac Curtis Buckley, Larry Byford, Ray Chatelain, Jr., William H. Eaden, Jerry Lynn Hughes, Taylor D. Johnson and Patrick Calvin.

As always, the public is cordially invited.  Questions call Post Quartermaster Larry Hume at 936-598-2976.

Schools from across East Texas will be showing their support today 1-28-19 by wearing maroon to show respect for the Athens middle school student that passed away in a school bus wreck with a train.

Center City Updates:

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 30th day of January, 2019 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.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

3. An Executive Session will also be held for the purpose of discussing courthouse security procedures and assignment of duties, as well as personnel, hearing complaints against personnel, or to deliberate the appointed, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee. This closed session is authorized by Texas Open Meeting Act, Texas Government Code Section 551.072-551.087.

4. Reopen meeting.

5. Discuss and possibly make a decision on issues discussed in the Executive Session.

6. Adjourn.

On Friday, January 25, 2019, Judge LeAnn Rafferty of the 123rd Judicial District Court had six (6) inmates currently incarcerated in the Shelby County Jail brought over to the Court to follow up on their appearances yesterday.  As a result, Shelby County District Attorney Stephen Shires was able to finalize nine (9) cases.  This included State v. Peterson, where the defendant received 15 months incarceration in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice State Jail Division for the offense of burglary of a building.

TEMPLE, Texas, Dec. 18, 2018 –  An upcoming Texas Soil Health Short Course will focus on increasing biological wealth with livestock Feb. 26-27, 2019 at the Palestine Civic Center in Palestine, Texas. The workshop will offer attendees a greater understanding of dynamic soil properties including water infiltration, water holding capacity, and organic matter content. Producer’s practical approaches to implementing a Soil Health Management System on their farm will also be discussed.

“We are very excited to bring this opportunity to farmers and ranchers in Texas,” says Jason Hohlt, a range management specialist with USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Texas. “The topic of soil health is getting increasingly common in ranching publications across the nation.  This is a great opportunity to better define soil health and why it is important to ranchers.”

The workshop is being conducted by the USDA-NRCS, Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board, Association of Texas Soil & Water Conservation Districts, and Texas Wildlife Association with the Anderson-Houston Soil and Water Conservation District hosting the event.

According to Hohlt, several Texas NRCS staff have been working closely with ranchers to implement projects to help identify effective soil health practices for this region. This event will showcase preliminary results from a three-year demonstration project aimed at application of commonly discussed management practices geared to improve soil health. Hohlt states the workshop will be an opportunity for the project participants to share their findings with ranchers at the workshop.

“Soils are the foundation of life and the factory of biological workers that help us provide necessities for our society,” says Nathan Haile, NRCS Agronomist. “They serve many roles for water capture and filtration, carbon storage and cycling, pollution breakdown, and much, much more. Understanding how to manage the soil to improve that factory’s efficiency is critical for ranchers, not only for their own economic benefit but the benefit of the nation.”

The short course will feature leading researchers and producers in soil health. Speakers include Dr. Christine Jones, an internationally renowned and highly respected groundcover and soils ecologist from Australia; Dr. Richard Teague, Texas A&M AgriLife research ecologist from Vernon; David Daigle, rancher from Beauregard Parish, Louisiana; Jimmy Downe and Joe Beall, ranchers from Anderson County, Texas; and several soil health and range management specialists from the NRCS.

The short course’s unique format will include two field tours (one each day of the conference) to observe soil health systems being implemented locally, with conference room presentations prior to the tour to provide knowledge of the concepts of principles of soil health. A speaker panel will provide participants the opportunity to question both researchers and practitioners about the principles and practices they present. There will be a rainfall simulator demonstration that will provide insight to how functioning soil is important to agriculture producers, water providers and users downstream. The short course includes two noon meals and will also feature a “A Plan and Purpose for Every Acre” social hour and dinner on the evening of Feb 26.

Early bird registration is $50 for the short course by Feb 15, 2019, followed by $75 regular registration after Feb 15.  For more registration information, or opportunities for your nonprofit or association to sponsor visit the Soil Health Short Course website at https://www.texas-wildlife.org/resources/events/texas-soil-health-short-course  or call Iliana Pena at 210-826-2904.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

The missing Joaquin man Mr. James Edward Pugh has been located and he is safe. No further information is available at this time. This is according to the Shelby County Sheriff's Office.

As we once again plan our Memorial Day program that will happen on Monday, May 27, 2019 we would like to collect as many photos of those from Shelby County who died during a time of war that are available.  We honor those who were killed in action as well as those who died of other causes such as accidents and disease who are native from Shelby County or are now buried here. 

We have accounted for 14 from the Mexican American War (April 25, 1846 – February 2, 1848; 21 from the Civil War (April 12, 1861 – April 9, 1865); one from the Philippine American War (February 4, 1899 – July 2, 1902); 35 from World War I (April 7, 1917 – November 11, 1918); 126 from World War II (December 7, 1941 – September 2, 1945); 8 from the Korean War (June 25, 1950 – July 27, 1953); 12 from the Vietnam War (November 1, 1955 – April 30, 1975); and 3 from the current War on Terrorism (September 11, 2001 – present day).

If you can supply a photograph or any other information, please contact VFW Post 8904 Quartermaster Larry Hume at 936-598-2976 or email chief@chiefimaging.com.  You can also bring anything you have by Chief Imaging, Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5pm.  We would also be happy to share any information we have of your loved one.

On Thursday, January 24, 2019, in the 123rd Judicial District Court, Honorable Judge LeAnn Rafferty presiding, 63 cases were on the docket for status hearings and other pretrial purposes.  Shelby County District Attorney Stephen Shires finalized 22 cases.  This included State v. Watts, on a revocation of probation, where the defendant received 10 months in the Texas Department of Corrections Criminal Justice State Jail Division for a drug possession offense.   That also included State v. Jacobs, where the defendant received 24 months State Jail incarceration for drug and other offenses.  Persons incarcerated in the State Jail Division do not receive credit for “good time” and are not eligible for parole.  That means, with the exception of individuals who voluntarily educate or train themselves (and become eligible for a slight reduction of their sentence), persons sentenced to the State Jail Division do their time day-for-day.  District Attorney Shires announced that discovery had been provided on each of the cases, and he and defense lawyers agreed that most of the remaining cases are close to being resolved via plea bargain.  After the 63 case docket was completed, Judge Rafferty brought over several additional individuals jailed at the Shelby County Jail on recent charges, to inquire into their statuses.  A number of those individuals are being brought back to court on January 25, 2019, for further proceedings.  The remaining cases are set on the March-April Trial Docket.

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On Thursday, January 24, 2019, David Nathan Lewis, Jr., of Timpson Texas, was convicted guilty and sentenced in the following cases:

Endangering a Child 24 months incarceration in the State Jail Division

Forgery: 24 months incarceration in the State Jail Division

Possession of a Controlled Substance 24 months incarceration in the State Jail Division

Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle 24 months incarceration in the State Jail Division

Fraudulent Use of Identifying Information 6 Years TDCCJ Institutional Division (Prison)

The endangering a child charge, forgery charge, possession of a controlled substance charge, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle charge are all considered “state jail felonies” under the law and subject the defendant to incarceration in the TDCCJ State Jail Facility for a period of 6 months to 24 months.  Thus, Mr. Lewis received the maximum sentence from Judge LeAnn Rafferty, in the 123rd Judicial Court, on those charges.  The fraudulent use of identifying information charge is a third-degree felony, with a punishment range of 2-10 years.  Mr. Lewis received six (6) years incarceration in prison on that charge.  As previously noted, persons incarcerated in the State Jail Division do not receive credit for “good time” and are not eligible for parole.  That means, with the exception of individuals who voluntarily educate or train themselves (and become eligible for a slight reduction of their sentence), persons, like Mr. Lewis, sentenced to the State Jail Division do their time day-for-day.

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On Thursday, January 24, 2019, Shelby County District Attorney Stephen Shires moved to have the bonds on Tracy Whitaker, of Timpson Texas, revoked.  Mr. Whitaker was on bond for the offenses of burglary of a habitation and engaging in organized criminal activity.  While out on bond, Mr. Whitaker allegedly committed additional criminal offenses.  For that reason, District Attorney Shires asked that Mr. Whitaker’s bonds be revoked, that he remain in custody pending trial, and that his cases be preferentially set for trial.  Judge Rafferty granted the State’s Motion.  Mr. Whitaker is set for trial on March 18, 2019.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office is seeking the whereabouts of James Edward Pugh of Joaquin, TX. 

The Paris Peace Accord ending the Vietnam War was signed on January 27, 1973, and was followed by the withdrawal of the remaining American troops. The terms of the accord called for a complete ceasefire in South Vietnam, allowed North Vietnamese forces to retain the territory they had captured, release of US prisoners of war, and called for both sides to find a political solution to the conflict. As an enticement to South Vietnam, President Nixon offered US airpower to enforce the peace terms (this was stopped in December 1974 when Congress cut off all military aid to South Vietnam).

More than 58,000 Americans gave their lives in the Vietnam War and there are still 1,590 missing in action.

In observance of the 46th Anniversary Shelby County Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8904 and the Auxiliary will host a Memorial Observance for those who served in the Vietnam War.  A wreath laying will take place at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 28h, 2019 at the Veterans Memorial on the grounds of the 1885 Historic Shelby County Courthouse.

The names of ten Shelby County Veterans who were killed in action during the Vietnam War will be read.  They are:  Ted W. Adams, William L. “Shorty” Andrews, Jimmy Barnett, Mac Curtis Buckley, Larry Byford, Ray Chatelain, Jr., William H. Eaden, Jerry Lynn Hughes, Taylor D. Johnson and Patrick Calvin.

As always, the public is cordially invited.  Questions call Post Quartermaster Larry Hume at 936-598-2976.

The Louisiana State Police has issued a Silver Alert on behalf of the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) and is requesting assistance with locating Daisy Hardy, who was reported missing to BRPD this evening. She was last seen at approximately 3:30 pm this afternoon in the Zachary area driving a white 2013 Cadillac CTS bearing Louisiana license plate XGK123.

Daisy Hardy is a 79-year-old black female with silver hair and brown eyes. She is approximately 5’6” tall and weighs about 150 pounds. She was last seen wearing a red button up blouse, black slacks, and a black beanie cap.

Family members confirm Ms. Hardy suffers from a medical condition which may impair her judgment.

Anyone having any information as to the whereabouts of Daisy Hardy should immediately contact the Baton Rouge Police Department at 225-389-2000 or Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867.

On Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019, the Center Fire Department responded to a wreck on HWY 7 East and Loop 500. According to the Center Fire Chief Keith Byndom, it was a two-vehicle accident and no one was hospitalized. 

On January 22, 2019, in the 273rd Judicial District Court of Shelby County, Honorable James A. Payne Jr. presiding, ninety-four (94) felony cases were set on the docket for arraignment, status hearings, and other pretrial purposes.  Twelve (12) cases were disposed. 

In all but a couple of the cases set for status hearings, discovery had been completed.  Shelby County District Attorney Stephen Shires and defense attorneys on numerous of the cases set for status hearing indicated that the cases were close to being resolved via plea bargain. 

A number of defendants did not show up for their arraignment at Court.  As a result, warrants for their arrest have been issued.  The cases that aren’t disposed by plea bargain are set on the May-June trial docket.

UPDATE: US 59 North, just south of Tenaha in Shelby County, is currently confined to two lanes as wreckers upright and remove an overturned 18-wheeler after an earlier crash. NB traffic is being diverted to SB lanes until the scene is cleared. Prepare for delays and reduce speed.

LUFKIN – TxDOT Commissioners in December approved a reduction in the speed limit for sections of roadways in Nacogdoches, Polk and San Augustine counties.

In Nacogdoches County, the speed limit will be reduced from 70 miles per hour to 65 miles per hour on SH 21 East from the Nacogdoches city limits to the San Augustine County line.

In Polk County, the speed limit will be reduced from 70 miles per hour to 65 miles per hour on US 190 from the Livingston city limits to the Tyler County line.

In San Augustine County, the speed limit will be reduced from 70 miles per hour to 65 miles per hour on SH 21 from the Nacogdoches County line to the San Augustine city limits.

As new signs are placed, motorists are urged to be alert and aware of the reduced speed limits. The new speed limits are enforceable once signs are set. For statewide road closures and conditions, visit drivetexas.org. For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.

According to USGS, there was a 2.6 magnitude earthquake that occurred on Jan. 20, 2019 about 13 kilometers east, north, east of San Augustine, Texas. 

A correction to an earlier post the quake occurred at 11:31:58 (UTC) which is 5:31 a.m. local time.

The San Augustine Commissioners Court will have a meeting on Tuesday, 22nd day of January at 9 a.m. in the Commissioners Court Room at 100 W. Columbia.

Click here for the Agenda:

On January 17, 2019, in the 273rd Judicial District Court, Honorable Judge James A. Payne, Jr. presiding, the Shelby County District Attorney Stephen Shires disposed of 14 cases.  This included State v. Lee, Cause Number 18-CR-20657, where the defendant received 6 years in the Texas Department of Corrections Criminal Justice Institutional Division for the charge of Delivery of a Controlled Substance.  In State v. Wuyts, Cause Numbers 18-CR-20735, 19-CR-21009, 19-CR-21010, the defendant received 2 years in each case in the Texas Department of Corrections Criminal Justice Institutional Division for drug charges and a forgery charge.  Numerous other cases, in addition to the ones that were disposed of, were called for various pre-trial purposes.

On January 8, 2019, the Shelby County Grand Jury for the 273rd Judicial Court was impaneled by the newly sworn-in Judge James A. Payne Jr.  In an abbreviated setting, the grand jury returned 23 true bills of indictment.

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 23rd day of January, 2019 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 current payroll.

3.Public comments on Agenda item.

4.Discuss Capital Credits for FY 2018.

5.Discuss and possibly approve Participation Agreement between Tyler Technologies, Inc. and Shelby County for the benefit of the District Clerk’s office for receiving fees through the Search Tx website.

6.Discuss and possibly approve the District Attorney’s office to purchase a new vehicle. 

7.Discuss and possibly approve the District Attorney’s office to apply for a Grant for Drug Court.

8.Discuss and possibly approve the District Attorney’s office to apply for a Grant for Equipment. (Surveillance and Ballistics) 

9.Adjourn.

SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public (DPS) responded to and investigated a two-vehicle major crash on 1-18-19 at the intersection of SH 103 and FM 1277.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 10:20 a.m., a 2002 Nissan passenger car failed to yield right of way from the stop intersection at FM 1277 and drove into the path of a 2015 Chevy SUV traveling east on SH 103. The driver of the Nissan is identified as 79-year-old Ronald Otis from Broaddus. Otis and a passenger identified as 79-year-old Bobbie Otis were both pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the Chevrolet is identified as 64-year-old Ireece Nutt from Houston. Nutt was transported to CHI St. Luke’s Hospital in Lufkin for treatment. This crash remains under investigation. No additional information is available at this time.

The Board of Directors of Deep East Texas Council of Governments (DETCOG) will hold their first meeting of the New Year in San Augustine.  The meeting will be held Thursday, January 24, 2019 at the San Augustine County Expo Rodeo Center located at 1109 Oaklawn Street (off State Highway 147 North) in San Augustine.  A luncheon will be served at noon with the board meeting to follow. 

Welcoming members and guests to San Augustine County will be County Judge Jeff Boyd; San Augustine Mayor Leroy Hughes; San Augustine County Commissioners, Tommy Pickard, Edward Wilson, Joey Holloway and Rodney Ainsworth as well as San Augustine County Minority Representative Musetta Hosey.

DETCOG's President, Houston County Attorney, Daphne Session, would like to extend an invitation to the meeting to all interested parties.  Anyone needing further information may contact the Deep East Texas Council of Governments Office at (409) 384-5704 ext. 5254.

NO IMPACT SO FAR FROM FEDERAL SHUTDOWN ON DETCOG HOUSING PAYMENTS

The DETCOG Regional Housing Authority has received inquiries from
tenants and landlords who are concerned about the effect of the
partial federal shutdown on the HUD Section 8 Housing Choice
Voucher Program.

DETCOG received its regular monthly funding from HUD for Housing
Assistance Payments and Administrative Fees for the month of
January, and we have been advised that the funding is scheduled to be
paid on time for the month of February.

The DETCOG Housing Program has not been affected by the shutdown
so far and we do not anticipate any negative impact over the next six
weeks. Our Housing staff is continuing to work every day at full
strength to serve the tenants and landlords who participate in this
program throughout Deep East Texas.

It is our hope that the partial federal shutdown will conclude before
the end of February. Should it linger on past then, we are hopeful that
HUD will make alternative arrangements to ensure that funding for
this program is continued without interruption.

The DETCOG Regional Housing Authority provides housing assistance
to approximately 1,700 families in Angelina, Hardin, Houston, Jasper,
Newton, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity and
Tyler counties.

Saturday, January 19th the JV Boys will play at the Joaquin Tourney.

1st Game 9:00 am; 2nd Game 2:00 pm

Girls do not play.

In a previous release from Tenaha, the first game was listed as  9 p.m. it is supposed to be 9 a.m.

Sheriff Jayson Richardson would like to update the public on a case that began on October 31, 2018 where the remains of a body were found near Highway 512 in Benson, LA.  The remains have been identified as Zachary James Hebert (W/M - DOB: 03/31/1981) of Shreveport, LA.  Agencies involved in this case that proved vital in both collection and identification included:  DeSoto Parish Coroner's Office, L.S.U. FACES Laboratory, Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory, and DeSoto Parish Sheriff's Office.  This investigation is currently being investigated as a homicide.  No further information is available at this time.
 
DeSoto Parish Crime Stoppers is offering a reward up to $1000.00 for any information that leads to the arrest of the person or persons responsible in this case.  Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stoppers line at 1-800-505-STOP(7867) or contact the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office at (318) 872-3956, Detective Jordan Ebarb. All calls are confidential. You may also visit P3Tips.com or download the free P3 Tips App in Google Play or Apple Store.

LUFKIN — TxDOT is conducting a statewide Truck Parking Study and assessing current highway design and how it impacts the movement of freight in the state of Texas.

The informative meeting and study will be held Wednesday, Jan. 23, from 8:30 – 11 am at Angelina College in Conference Room CS104, 3500 South First Street in Lufkin.

As part of these studies, TxDOT is holding statewide workshops to gather input from freight shippers, drivers, logistics professionals and facility operators to assess truck parking and freight infrastructure design needs, challenges, opportunities and solutions.

This meeting is free and open to the public and designed for those who work in the freight and/or trucking industry. TxDOT staff will be available to answer questions.

For more information or early registration, visit https://www.dot.state.tx.us/move-texas-freight/resources/workshops.htm or contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.

The Paxton public water system has taken the necessary corrective actions to restore the quality of the water distributed by this public water system used for drinking water or human consumption purposes and has provided TCEQ with laboratory test results that indicate that the water no longer requires boiling prior to use as of 01/17/2019.   

If you have questions concerning this matter, you may contact Stacey Cransford at 936-572-0973

Roughrider Academy will graduate 12 students at the winter graduation ceremony in the Center High School cafeteria on Thursday, Jan 17 from 6:30 p.m. until approximately 7:15 p.m. Seven students will receive the Roughrider Foundation Scholarship.

The public is welcome to watch the graduation. The audience and participants may enter through the doors next to the student parking lot.

Today - 45 start/67 for a high, mostly cloudy with some peaks of Sun, winds from the WSW at 10 mph.

Friday - 47 start/67 hi, Cloudy, again with winds blowing at 15 to 20 mph, And T-storms with the arrival of the cold front, 1.23+ inches expected as the very dense upper air cold front collides with the warm surface air over us.

Saturday - 46 start, 51 high as the front passes, showers in the am, less than 1/10th inch, dropping to a 28 "feels like" low with very gusty winds continuing

Sunday - 31 start with winds making it "feel like" 21 degrees at 7 am, high of only 49 degrees even with sunny skies

Monday - 31-degree start will feel like it is in the mid to upper 20's. The high rebounds into the mid-50s' under sunny skies, ahead of another front......with more am showers under cloudy skies and a high of mid-'50s

Can hardly wait to hear what the NWS and SPC have to say later this morning. At least we are NOT under the Winter Storm Watch/Warning like the folks to our North!     

The Daughters of the Republic of Texas gave a presentation at yesterday's 1-15-19 meeting of the Shelby County Historical Society at the Shelby County Museum. The meeting began at 2 p.m.

Police were called to 1723 Clarice St in reference to a gunshot victim in the early evening of January 14th 2019.  At 5:34 PM Officers were dispatched to a report of a gunshot victim at 1723 Clarice St.  Officers located a single gunshot victim at the residence. 

The victim was suffering from a single gunshot wound to the upper leg and was transported to Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital and believed to be in stable condition.   

The victim was identified to be Joel Garcia 30 years of age from Nacogdoches, Texas.  At this time it appears a male suspect was outside the residence near the street and discharged a firearm multiple times at the victim striking him once in the leg. The suspect then fled in a white four-door car. Detectives are still actively working on identifying the suspect in this case.  

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

At 3:59 am it was 28.5 degrees. As you can see from our weather map below, we are in a very disturbed pattern with lots of single digit lows behind the cold fronts. The Gulf moisture and winds will warm us thru Friday into the 60's for highs and 50's for lows.....with T-storm and rain of about 3/4 to 1 inch......Then, we put up our light jackets, long sleeve shirts and sweaters ...pull out or winter gear, gloves and hats. The second graphic....Very cold, very windy, and our "Feels Like" temp will likely fall into the TEENS! Saturday and Sunday as our lows will be in the low 20's.

Remember to check on People, Plants, Pets, Pipes & the Elderly.

According to Shelby County Precinct 2 Commissioner, Jimmy Lout, County Road 2571 willed be closed for repair on Wednesday, January 16^th. Mr. Lout said he hopes to have the road re-opened by late Wednesday evening. County road 2571 runs from FM 139 near East Liberty to McClelland church.

The public is invited to our Texas Historical Marker Dedication Ceremony at Excelsior School on February 23, 2019 at 10:00 A.M. The Historical marker commemorates what is now Excelsior Independent School District as being the only Common School in Shelby County, Texas remaining out of approximately 90 common schools in the late nineteenth century.

In conjunction with the dedication of the historical marker, Excelsior will host a school reunion for the first time ever. It seems like only yesterday that we stood pledging allegiance in our class rooms. Time has flown by and it’s hard to believe that we are getting ready to celebrate our long overdue school reunion. 

Our program for the day of events is shaping up something like this:

10:00 a.m. - Fellowship in Excelsior Gym – Slide Show

11:00 a.m. - Program begins in Gym  

Opening Prayer

National Anthem with Excelsior 8th Grade entering with Flags

Pledge of Allegiance

Benny Russell – Excelsior School Board President

Shelby County Judge Allison Harbison

Colleen Doggett – Shelby County Historical Commission

Laura Harris – Excelsior Timeline

Laura Harris - Introduction of some of Excelsior’s earliest Students

Present day Excelsior Teachers – Alice Howard  ~  Mila Smith ~ Alyson Porter

Benny Russell – Remarks & Recognitions

At this time, we will gather at the front entrance of the school for the unveiling of the marker.

David Chadwick – Mayor of Center - Historical Commission

Presentation of the Historical Marker

Closing Prayer

Ringing of the bell

Announcements:

Food Truck available for purchasing lunch

Tables for lunch in historic, 1916 White Building (formerly class rooms & cafeteria)

Open Microphone for sharing old memories.

Texas VFW District 19 held its winter meeting this past Saturday, January 12 at VFW Post 3893, Nacogdoches.  Virginia Fischer who teaches at the Roughrider Academy and family joined us for lunch and the awards ceremony.  Virginia was selected as the District 19 Teacher of the Year, grades 9-12.  Those in the photos l-r; VFW Post 8904 Commander Gene Hutto, Auxiliary Chaplain Joy Hutto, Auxiliary Sr. Vice Mary Fausett; Virginia’s son-in-law Michael Grimes, mother-in-law Barbara Fischer, daughter Starla, Virginia with plaque, daughter Molly Grimes, Auxiliary Secretary Beverly Langford and State of Texas Chief of Staff Terry Contella who made the presentation.

Wreck on HWY 96 South about 9 miles outside of Center. This information was obtained from listening to the Center Fire Department communications. 

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 16th day of January, 2019 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.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

3.An executive session will be held for the purpose of consulting with the law firm of Flowers and Davis. This closed session is authorized by the Texas Open Meeting Act, Texas Government Code Section 551.071.

4.Reopen Special meeting.

5.Discuss and possibly make a decision on issues discussed in the Executive Session.

6.SCHC request permission from Commissioner's Court to submit application for grant funding with the Texas Historical Commission for the Shelby County 1913 Historical Courthouse Annex Bldg. 

7.Discuss and possibly approve the Resolution in Opposition to Unfunded Mandates which when approved will be sent to Members of the Legislature

8.Approve Draw Request Transmittal for GrantWorks Invoice No. 1 in the amount of $7,837.50.

10.Adjourn.
 

The Roughrider Radio Team will cover the Riders' district basketball season, beginning tonight with their district opener at home against rival Carthage. 

The broadcast will begin at 7:00 with an extended visit with head coach Hiram Harrison discussing the season to this point, the district challenges ahead, and tonight's match-up. 

At halftime, they visit with cheerleader of the night Katelyn Duvon.

The coverage will be on KQQB 100.5 fm:  Roughriders v Bulldogs, 7pm tonight.

The Joaquin Economic Development Corporation will meet in regular session Tuesday, January, 15, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. at the Joaquin City Office located at 124 N. Preston, Joaquin, Texas.
          

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest  
2.Board approval of the previous month’s minutes.
3.Board approval of bills paid and to be paid.
4.Review of financial standing & current priorities list of JED Corporation.
5.Adjourn.

The Joaquin Public Safety Corporation will meet in regular session Tuesday, January 15, 2019
at 5:30 p.m. at the Joaquin City Office located at 124 N. Preston, Joaquin, Texas.

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest  
2.Board approval of the previous month’s minutes.
3.Board discussion & possible action on taking of bids for construction of JVFD substation on Hwy 7 property.
4.Board approval of bills paid and to be paid.
5.Review of financial standing of JPSD Corporation.
6.Adjourn.

The City Council of Joaquin will meet in regular session Tuesday January 15, 2019
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 & Adjustments Report.
c.Public Works Manager-Update – Departmental Updates
d.Water Department-Update—Ongoing Water Projects
e.Events Committee -Christmas Festival Report.
f.Joaquin Public Safety Development Committee -Report.
g.Joaquin Economic Development Committee -Report.
6.Council approval on Payment of Bills.
7.Presentation to Council by RG3 meters
8.Discussion & Council action possibly writing off debt owed to the city by Ms. Rose Mary Frost.
9.Discussion & Council action on scheduling a tour of the city streets with economic development and city employees to discuss a course of action & prioritize repairs needed based on condition of roads. 
10.Discussion & Council action on creating a work schedule/trash duty in our city park. 
11.Discussion with Council members about our current policy on cut dates from city utilities. 
12.Discussion and Council action on declaring a day on our calendar in our city in honor of Boo’s Battle.
13.Discussion & Council Action on approval of contribution of funds for Recycle Trailer.
14.Discussion & Council Action on Ordering City Election May 4, 2019.
15.Discussion & Council Action on approval of loan from Texas State Bank for the purposes of installing back-up generators for water system.
16.Adjournment.

I want to start off by saying thank you to the local businesses who pulled together in my time of injury and donated food, or other items for the benefit, without your donation it wouldn’t have been possible. I’d also like to thank everyone who donated time and effort into the benefit and made it all possible. A special thank you to Chief Byndom, and the Center Fire Department for allowing the benefit to take place at your facility. Thank you to the Shelby County Cookers for preparing the chicken and helping with other task throughout the benefit. I want to say thank you to all who have prayed, sent donations, or came to visit me during my stay in the hospital. I’ve never been more proud of the the City of Center and all of its residents and business than I am now. To see the heartfelt compassion they have for me, never in a million years did I realize I meant so much to so many. Everything you’ve all done has been a tremendous help for my family and I. I can not wait to regain my strength, health, and make a full recovery to be able to come back to work and serve the great community and it’s people! Again Thank You to all that have helped in anyway, I owe everything to you all!

Officer Andrew Williams

The Shelby County Historical Society will hold its monthly meeting January 15, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. at the Shelby County Museum located on Pecan Street. The speaker this month will be Mrs. Margaret Casto with other DRT members.  They will be speaking on the history of the Republic of Texas.

Austin, Texas – Members of the Deep East Texas County Commissioners and Judges Association met in Austin Tuesday just before the 86th Legislature was sworn in.  Their main item of business was a briefing on the upcoming legislative session from the Senior Legislative Manager of the County Judges and Commissioners Association Rick Thompson and the General Counsel for the County Judges & Commissioners Association of Texas, Jim Allison.  The focus of the discussion was potential legislative actions that would affect county government.

Allison gave the commissioners and judges a quick review of some of the issues expected to come up during the session.  “Public Education funding is expected to be high on everyone’s priorities,” said Allison.  ”Also, Governor Abbott and Lt. Governor Patrick are still talking about a property tax cap which could affect one of the few income sources for counties” added Thompson.  Alliston stressed that Unfunded Mandates placed on the counties often drive the need to raise local taxes.

“On one hand, counties have very limited ways to generate operating funds, but property taxes are what most counties depend on for income. So it’s a double whammy when the state gives counties additional responsibilities without giving them a way to pay for the costs – and – then want to put additional limits on how we handle property taxes,” said Deep East Texas

County Commissioners and Judges Association President, Shelby County Judge, Allison Harbison.

One of the most interesting changes this session involves the outcome of the recent general election.  “This time the rural counties – not the folks living along Interstate 35 – are the ones that put the statewide office holders back in office,” said Allison, “and we’ll be reminding them.”

In wrapping up, Allison urged the commissioners and judges to get to know their legislators, and their staff, early in the session.  “There have been over six-thousand bills pre-filed, fifteen hundred of them pertaining to county government.  They will not have the time to research every one that comes up so they will need to be comfortable reaching out to reliable resources, like you, to tell them how the legislation would affect county government,” he concluded.

East Texas Collision Center located on the loop in Center had their official ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 10, 2019. Tune in on Friday Jan. 11, 2019 to our morning news on KDET 930 AM or KQBB 100.5 FM to hear owner Casey Metcalf tell us why he got into the business. 

Due to a water outage from a broken main the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has required the Paxton  public water system ID# 2100031 to notify all of the customers on the Jackson side that were without water on 01/10/2019 to boil their water prior to consumption (e.g., washing hands/face, brushing teeth, drinking, etc). Children, seniors, and persons with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to harmful bacteria, and all customers should follow these directions). 

To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking, and ice making should be boiled and cooled prior to use for drinking water or human consumption purposes. The water should be brought to a vigorous rolling boil and then boiled for two minutes. 

In lieu of boiling, individuals may purchase bottled water or obtain water from some other suitable source for drinking water or human consumption purposes. 

When it is no longer necessary to boil the water, the public water system officials will notify customers that the water is safe for drinking water or human consumption purposes. 

Once the boil water notice is no longer in effect, the public water system will issue a notice to customers that rescinds the boil water notice in a manner similar to this notice. 

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. 

If you have questions concerning this matter, you may contact Stacey Cransford at 936-572-0973.

Not much to talk about. Nothing severe. Just typical weather for this time of the year.  Some Sun. Some warm. Some Cold. Some clouds. Some rain. Some wind. Mostly 50's for highs...couple of 60's late in the 10 day view. 40's and 30's with some frost for lows.

On 01-05-19 a suspect entered a business on highway 59 South by breaking the front glass door. Once inside the business the suspect took several items and then left in a white Chevy 4-door car. This crime was captured by video surveillance cameras that the business had installed.

 
On 01-08-2019 the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office made the video public to help identify the suspect.  Later that night the Sheriff’s Office received a call from a clerk in Mt. Enterprise that a subject matching the description and vehicle had just left there store and was possibly headed to Arkansas. 

Working with Mena Police in Arkansas, we were able to positively identify the suspect as John Mejia 43 years of age from Mena Arkansas. After NCSO made positive identification of the suspect and vehicle, a warrant was issued for the arrest of John Mejia. 

The Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office was advised last night by the Mena police department that the suspect had made it home to his residence. NCSO requested that the Mena Police Department execute the warrant that been issued for the suspects arrest.  Shortly after 9 pm last night the Mena police department took the suspect into custody. The Mena Police Department gained consent to search the suspect’s residence and vehicle.  Some items recovered at that location are believed to be stolen. 

NCSO detectives have learned that John Mejia has been gone from his residence since 12-31-18 and has been traveling through Texas. NCSO detectives have searched a national data base linking Mejia to numerous pawn shops in Texas. Further information obtained by NCSO leads us to believe that Mejia has possible committed burglaries in the Houston area as well. 
John Mejia has been booked into the Polk County Jail in Arkansas but has refused extradition back to Texas. The Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office is working with the Nacogdoches District Attorney’s Office to obtain a Governor’s Warrant on Mejia to have him extradited back to Nacogdoches County. 

John Mejia has been charged with burglary of building a state jail felony at this time. This investigation is ongoing and more charges are likely to be filed by other agencies in the near future. 

We would like to thank to the public for their assistance in this case, and a special thank you to the clerks that work in Mt. Enterprise for contacting us. Your assistance has helped us capture a burglary suspect! 
 

The State of Texas has declared Excelsior Common School No. 47 is a historical site. Excelsior School has been in existence for over 120 years. Plans are in motion for a Spring dedication ceremony for the unveiling of the marker.

An Excelsior Alumni reunion is also being planned in conjunction with the marker dedication. This will be a first time reunion for Excelsior School. We are requesting copies of pictures and any of your Excelsior school memories. The reunion committee is also on the hunt for the oldest living student. If you would like to help with the planning or if you need to submit any information, please contact the following reunion committee members:

Laura Harris - harris2632@sbcglobal.net - 936-591-1278
Barbara Scates - bscates@excelsior.esc7.net - 936-591-1047
Or call:

Benny & Thelma Russell - 936-598-2259
Excelsior School - 936-598-5866

Everyone is invited to this very special historical event!

Pass the word around and watch for updates!

The Shelby County Commissioners Court held a meeting on January 9th, 2019 here are the results:

1. They approved the minutes of the previous meetings.

2. They approved and paid weekly expenses.

3. They approved the current payroll. 

4. They approved the officer's reports.

5. No public comments.

6. They discussed and approved a deed on a tract of land that was deed to the County by the Albert Burns Estate, giving a portion of the land back. 

Center Roughriders

The Center Roughriders varsity basketball team has a home game vs. their rival school the Carthage Bulldogs on Friday, January 11 at, 7:30 p.m.

Shelbyville Dragons 
The Shelbyville Dragons varsity basketball team has a home game vs. the Tenaha Tigers on Friday, January 11 at, 9:30 p.m.

Timpson Bears

The Timpson Bears varsity basketball team has an away game vs. their rival school the Garrison Bulldogs on Friday, January 11, at 8 p.m.

San Augustine Wolves

The San Augustine Wolves varsity basketball team has a home game vs. the Martinsville Pirates on Friday, January 11, at 5 p.m.

Logansport Tigers
The Logansport Tigers varsity basketball team has an away game vs. the St. Mary Tigers in (Natchitoches, LA) on Tuesday, January 15, at 6 p.m.

This time on Pastor Stories we met with Pastor William Dee Daniel pastor of the Timpson First Baptist Church. He shares how he became involved in the ministry. 

SHELBY COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded to a one-vehicle crash on Jan. 8, 2019, on SH 7, about eight miles west of Center.

The preliminary investigation indicates at approximately 3:50 p.m., a 2012 GMC pickup was traveling west on SH 7. Investigators believe the driver fell asleep and drove off the roadway to the right and struck a tree.

The driver is identified as 27-year-old Eliezer Briones, from Nacogdoches. Briones was transported by medical helicopter to LSU Medical Center in Shreveport for treatment.

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

For the full article click here:

Hector Renee Sandoval  24 years old
6'2  175 lbs

Wanted for:
Aggravated Kidnapping Felony 1
Aggravated Sexual Assault Felony 1
Probation Violation MA 

Sandoval was last known driving a 2018 gray jeep wrangler with Oklahoma license plates. 

Sandoval may possibly be in the Mt. Enterprise or Tyler area.  Further information on the case will not be released until Sandoval is in custody.

On 01-05-2019 shortly after 3:00 am, an unknown white male broke into a business in the 7000 block of Highway 59 S. The suspect entered through the front door by breaking the glass. The subject is seen on video stealing several items and then exiting the business. The suspect gets into a mid-2000 model white Chevy Malibu and proceeds on highway 59 S toward Lufkin.

Items stolen:
150 Two dollar bills 
30 Eisenhower dollar coins
One baseball hall of fame commemorative coin

Suspect:
White Male, bald head was wearing a long sleeve shirt with shorts and some type of lace up boots. The subject appears to have a tattoo on his left calf muscle. Also appears to have a tattoo around his left arm, possibly a sleeve tattoo.

Vehicle:
2000 model Chevrolet Impala 4 door with missing front hubcaps. 
If you have any information on this crime or the identity of this person please contact the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office or crime stoppers at 936-560-4636. We will be enhancing this video in the near future and will update this information when the enhancement is completed.

Join CASA of Deep East Texas for our annual CASA Royale Fundraiser at The Fredonia Hotel in Nacogdoches on Saturday, January 19. Guests will enjoy Vegas-style casino games including craps, blackjack, roulette, and poker while listening to the smooth sounds of the SFA Jazz Band. Casino coins are exchanged for raffle tickets. Fajitas will be served and a cash bar will be available.

All proceeds go to support CASA of Deep East Texas.

Tickets are $50 each and include $250 in casino cash. Sponsorship packages available.

CASA of Deep East Texas was founded in 2006 by a group of citizens who saw a need CASA in the child welfare system in Nacogdoches County. CASA of Deep East Texas expanded their services to Shelby and San Augustine Counties in 2011. In 2017, CASA of Deep East Texas served 276 children in Nacogdoches, Shelby, and San Augustine counties and currently have 43 active volunteers. CASA of Deep East Texas is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors and is a member of the National and Texas CASA Associations. There are more than 1,000 CASA programs nationwide and 72 CASA programs in the state of Texas.

CASA of Deep East Texas serves Nacogdoches, Shelby, and San Augustine Counties.  We recruit and train volunteers from the community to advocate on behalf of children in foster care.  We currently serve 186 children and we need the support of our community to continue our efforts to make sure that every child in foster care has a voice.  Won’t you please join us at our CASA Royale Event on Saturday, January 19, at the Fredonia Hotel.

Below is a list of already scheduled classes with location dates and times.  If you would like, I can schedule a class here in San Augustine. It is always fun and informative to have the Senior Meteorologists available to visit in person and ask questions in person. Let me know what you think. (You can always attend at one of the locations listed below).

Master Gardeners.  Education Hours. Let me know. I would like to have as many as possible to make it worth their time and effort.

Despite the current government shutdown, we are still scheduling SKYWARN classes for this spring. However, we cannot come out and teach the class if the shutdown is still ongoing. In these cases, we will email you one week before the class to touch base. A final "GO or NO GO" decision will be made 24 hours prior to a class. In the event the shutdown forces us to cancel, we will do our very best to reschedule your class as quickly as possible.

In the meantime, we still have plenty of dates open! We have only received five requests for classes, so far. You can view our listing of scheduled classes by clicking here. As a reminder, here are some details to keep in mind about the upcoming SKYWARN season.

Dates are available from January 14, 2019, through April 30, 2019. All scheduling requests must be sent to us by February 16, 2019. Each class usually lasts between two and three hours. When requesting a class, please include the following information:

A facility and room for us to teach the class (including the address).
Three dates/times that you would like us to come and teach. 
We have lots of meetings and events in the works for this spring.

Giving us multiple dates will provide us with plenty of options to check against our schedule to make sure we can visit you.

Attached is my 2017 letter giving more details on the class.

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the governing body of the above named City will be held on the 10th day of January 2019 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. Conduct interviews with applicants for the position of City Secretary 

2. Adjourn

Just one more day of the really nice stuff like we have had the last few days.

Tuesday will be sunny and warm with lots of sun to give us a high of 70 late day before the clouds move in ahead of a cold front.

Wednesday will be partly cloudy and windy with a high of 59 after a 43 start

Thursday will be mostly cloudy all day with a high of only 56 after a start of 39

Friday will start at 47 with a high of only 52 and afternoon showers. we could see some 1/2 inch of showers. nothing severe.

Saturday will kick off with a starting temp of 40 degrees, clouds with carryover shower or two and warming to only 54 as the sun presents itself after a cloudy start to the day.

Sunday will show us clouds to start again at 35 degrees but warming to 54 again with sunny skies all day long.

Monday will again be sunny and warming to 54 again with all the sunshine.

Tuesday still bright sun and a warm afternoon temp of 57 degrees.

On December 26, 2018, at approximately 7:00 p.m., DeSoto Parish Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a call that involved an altercation that was witnessed in the parking lot of a business east of Mansfield, La.  Upon arrival, deputies were able to locate an abandoned vehicle owned by a female employee who had not shown up for work that day.  Deputies obtained cell phone information of the female and working with the cellular provider were able to locate the victim at Natchitoches Central Jr. High School. 

It was later learned by detectives that the female had been taken against her will and was being held by an abductor, later identified as Brian Young (B/M - DOB - 09/05/1986) of Natchitoches, La, who was a coach at the school.  With assistance from Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office, Young was taken into custody by Natchitoches Parish Sheriff's Office.  Young was later transferred to the DeSoto Parish Detention Center and booked for Kidnapping and Domestic Violence.  The investigation into the incident is still on-going.

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the San Augustine Commissioners Court will be held on Tuesday, the 8th day of January 2019 at 9 a.m. in the Commissioners Court Room at 100 West Columbia, room 103 in San Augustine, Texas.

Click here for the agenda:

Notice is hereby given that a Regular meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 9th day of January, 2019 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 of the December 5, 2018, Special meeting, December 12, 2018, Regular meeting, December 19, 2018, Special meeting of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court Regular meeting, December 19, 2018, Special meeting, December 26, 2018, Special meeting of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court.

2. Approve and pay weekly expenses.

3. Approve current payroll.

4. Approve Officers Report.

5.Public comments on Agenda item.

6. Discuss and possibly approve a deed on a tract of land that was deeded to the County by Albert Burns Estate on November 2, 2011.  

7. Adjourn.

The fundraiser scheduled for today Jan. 1, 2019, for Center Police officer Andrew Williams has been moved to the Center Fire Department located at 110 Patton St. due to the cold weather, also they have run out of BBQ Chicken and have fried chicken for sale. 

There is a blood drive going on at the Shelby County Sheriff's Office today 1-4-19.  

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the governing body of the above named City will be held on the 7th day of January 2019 at 5:00 pm. at the City Hall, 456 Jacob Street, Timpson, Texas, at which time the following subjects will be considered, to-wit:  

1. Discuss and review applications submitted for the position of City Secretary 

2. Discuss and set up date and time slots for potential interviews for the position of City Secretary

3. Discuss and set temporary position and title for Interim Secretary, Paula Mullins

4. Adjourn

New and updated property tax information has just been compiled by Shelby County Appraisal District and is available now to assist taxpayers. This property tax information is current and covers a wide range of topics, such as taxpayer remedies, exemptions, appraisals and is of value to select groups, such as disabled veterans and persons who are 65 years of age or older.

“Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, disabled veteran or a taxpayer, it’s important you know your rights concerning the property tax laws.” said Robert Pigg, chief appraiser of Shelby County Appraisal District. “You can contact us about any property tax issues with full confidence that we will provide you the most complete, accurate and up-to-date available information to assist you.”

This includes information about the following programs:

Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans - The law provides partial
exemptions for any property owned by veterans who are disabled, surviving spouses
and surviving children of deceased disabled veterans. This includes homesteads
donated to disabled veterans by charitable organizations at no cost or not more than 50
percent of the good faith estimate of the homestead’s market value to the disabled
veterans and their surviving spouses. The exemption amount is determined according
to percentage of service-connected disability. The law also provides a 100 percent
homestead exemption for 100 percent disabled veterans and their surviving spouses
and for surviving spouses of U.S. armed service members killed in action.

Property Tax Exemptions - Non-profit organizations that meet statutory requirements
may seek property tax exemptions and must apply to the appraisal district by a specific
date. Businesses that receive tax abatements granted by taxing units; ship inventory out
of Texas that may be eligible for the freeport exemption; store certain goods in transit in
warehouses that are moved within 175 days; construct, install or acquire pollution control
property; own and operate energy storage systems; convert landfill-generated gas; or
store offshore drilling equipment while not in use may also be eligible for statutory
exemptions.

Rendering Taxable Property - If a business owns tangible personal property that is
used to produce income, the business must file a rendition with its local county appraisal
district by a specified date. Personal property includes inventory and equipment used by
a business. Owners do not have to render exempt property such as church property or
an agriculture producer’s equipment used for farming.

Appraisal Notices - A Notice of Appraised Value is mailed to each taxpayer in mid May.
This is the taxpayer’s opportunity to check for any discrepancies in their value, property
description, address, exemptions, etc.

Property Taxpayer Remedies - This Comptroller publication explains in detail how to
protest a property appraisal, what issues the county appraisal review board (ARB) can
consider and what to expect during a protest hearing. The publication also discusses
the option of taking a taxpayer’s case to district court, the State Office of Administrative
Hearings or binding arbitration if the taxpayer is dissatisfied with the outcome of the ARB
hearing.

Homestead Exemptions - A homestead is generally defined as the home and land
used as the owner’s principle residence on January 1 of the tax year. A homestead 
exemption reduces the appraised value of the home and, as a result, lowers property
taxes. Applications are submitted to the appraisal district.

Productivity Appraisal - Property owners who use land for timberland production,
agricultural purposes or wildlife management can be granted property tax relief on their
land. They may apply to the appraisal district for an agricultural appraisal which may
result in a lower appraisal of the land based on how much the taxpayer produces, versus
what the land would sell for in the open market.

Residence Homestead Tax Deferral - Texas homeowners may postpone paying the
currently delinquent property taxes due on the appreciating value of their homes by filing
a tax deferral affidavit at the appraisal district. This tax relief allows homeowners to pay
the property taxes on 105 percent of the preceding year’s appraised value of their
homestead, plus the taxes on any new improvements to the homestead. The remaining
taxes are postponed, but not cancelled, with interest accruing at 8 percent per year.

Property Tax Deferral for Persons Age 65 or Older and Disabled Homeowners -
Texans who are 65 years of age or older, or who are disabled as defined by law, may
postpone paying current and delinquent property taxes on their homes by signing a tax
deferral affidavit. Once the affidavit is on file, taxes are deferred, but not cancelled, as
long as the owner continues to own and live in the home. Interest continues to accrue at
5 percent per year on the unpaid taxes. You may obtain a deferral affidavit at the
appraisal district.

Notice of Availability of Electronic Communication - Chief appraisers of a county
appraisal district and appraisal review boards may communicate electronically through
email or other media with property owners or their designated representatives. Written
agreements are required for notices and other documents to be delivered electronically
in place of mailing.

Protesting Property Appraisal Values – Property owners who disagree with the
appraisal district’s appraisal of their property for local taxes or for any other action that
adversely affects them may protest their property value to the appraisal district’s
appraisal review board.

For more information about these programs, contact the Shelby County Appraisal District at
(936) 598-6171. More information is also available from the state Comptroller’s Property Tax
Assistance Division website at www.comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/.
 

In this new video series, we take a look into the motivation of pastors and ministers and find out why they decided to teach the gospel; spread God's word. 

SHELBY COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigated a one-vehicle crash on Jan. 2, 2019, on US 59, about one-half mile north of FM 2667.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 1 p.m., a 2014 Dodge pickup was traveling north on US 59 when the pickup drove off the roadway to the right and struck a tree.

The driver of the pickup is identified as 44-year-old Dale Gaura, from Bossier City, LA. Gaura and a nine-year-old passenger were transported to a Nacogdoches hospital for treatment. Two other passengers were not reportedly injured during the crash.

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

Just for the folks North of IH 20 & not expected to accumulate even there.

I just received an email from the NWS and will gain more detail tomorrow during the Weather Briefing. Until then, here is the latest on our continuing rain and a teaser on the snow.

*A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect through late Thursday night for portions of Louisiana and east Texas*  

- Weather Timing and Overview:
An upper level low pressure system will approach from the west on Thursday and cross the area Thursday night into Friday.  Widespread rainfall will be heavy at times and continue across the region tonight and through Thursday night, especially for areas in the Flash Flood Watch.  On Thursday night into Friday morning, a mix of rain, snow, and sleet will be possible along and north of the I-20 corridor as the upper low moves over the area.  

Four State Impacts:

Impacts:  Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding of low-lying and poor drainage areas, as well as flooding of rivers, creeks, and streams.  No impacts anticipated from snow/ice at this time as surface temperatures should mostly be above freezing, we will be monitoring this closely over the next day.

Rainfall Accumulation: 3-5 inches possible in the watch area with isolated higher amounts.  1-3 inches possible elsewhere.  

Snow/Ice Accumulation: Little or no snow/ice accumulation along and north of I-20 Thursday night into early Friday morning.

Video Coverage:

The Shelby County Commissioners’ Court met on Jan. 2. 2019, at 9:30 a.m. at the active Shelby County Courthouse located at 200 San Augustine Street in Center, Texas and took the following actions:

1. They swore in Shelby County elected officials starting with the newly elected county commissioners and then proceeding to a group of other newly elected county officials.

Shelby County Judge Allison Harbison swears in Commissioners Jimmy Lout and Tom Bellmyer

County officials were sworn in

2. The court approved the bounds for the incoming elected officials.

3. The court paid and approved weekly expenses except for the payment on a piece of equipment that has yet to be received.

4. The court approved the current payroll.

5. No public comments were given on agenda items.

6. The discussed and adopted a resolution to designate authorized signators for the 2018 Texas CDBG program contract 7218440.

7. They discussed and approved mileage rate change reimbursement for county employees in accordance with IRS Standard Rates.

8. They discussed and tabled the action to disperse the capital credits for the Fiscal Year of 2018 because a check from the State of Texas has yet to arrive.

9. They discussed and approved replacing the paper towel dispensers in the public restrooms with wall mounted hand dryers at the courthouse.

10. They discussed and approved putting a wall mounted baby changing table on the ladies restroom on the 2nd floor of the active Shelby County courthouse.

11. They discussed and approved a designated room in the courthouse for nursing mothers.

12. They discussed and took action on reserve officer for Constable Pct. 3. The reserve officer was approved. 

13. Lastly, the court adjourned.

The East Lamar Water Supply boil water notice has been lifted it is no longer necessary for customers to boil their water.

Flags that have been at half-staff for the past 30 days in honor of the passing of President Bush should now be raised.