The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging drivers to help make the holidays safer by driving sober and using extra caution. In an effort to protect travelers on our roadways, DPS Troopers, as well as local law enforcement across the state, will conduct traffic patrols throughout the holiday weekends of Dec. 23 – 26 and Dec. 31 – Jan. 1, looking for drunk drivers, speeders, seat belt violators and other dangerous drivers.
“Impaired driving or reckless behavior on the road can turn holiday celebrations into tragedies, and these DPS patrols are designed to help save lives by identifying drivers who disregard the law and endanger others,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “By always driving sober, obeying traffic laws, and slowing down or moving over a lane when vehicles are stopped on the side of the road, Texans can help make our roads safer for everyone.”
During the eight-day Christmas/New Year holiday enforcement effort last year, DPS troopers made 466 DWI arrests. DPS enforcement efforts also resulted in 9,174 speeding citations, 893 seat belt/child safety seat citations, 320 fugitive arrests and 286 felony arrests during the enforcement period.
DPS offers the following additional tips for safe travel during the holidays:
Don’t drink and drive. Designate a driver or take a cab.
Slow down – especially in bad weather, construction areas and heavy traffic.
Eliminate distractions, including the use of mobile devices.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle – it’s the law.
Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks that are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated – it’s the law. Also, show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the road.
Don’t drive fatigued.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and check the weather forecast before your trip begins.
We could see 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches of rain in some parts of Deep East Texas. And, by the end of next week, more rain and wintry mix is possible. It's too early to get an exact handle on the wintery stuff, but we do know it will be cold!
In 2017 new laws will go into effect that will more heavly regulate antibotics being administered to live stock.
The Angelina County Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Office will be hosting a seminar on Jan.16 where an A&M professor will address concerns and answer any questions. That meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Agrilife office in Lufkin. The admission price is $10.
David Temple convicted of shooting his pregenat wife Belinda from Nacogdoches. Walks free today after 10 years of appeals. Harris County prosecutors said Temple staged a burglary at their House in the Houston area and killed his wife, Belinda Temple. Why?, because he was having an affair. Temple would later marry the other woman.
Temple's lawyers appealed the verdict from his 2007 trial and the appeals court agreed with a state district judge who took another look into the case and found repitious misconduct by the Harris County trial prosecutor. The appeals court stated the prosecutor withheld some evidence from Temple's attorneys and failed disclose other evidence in a timely manner.
Posted
2016-12-28 10:53:00 by Shelby County Sheriff
Three individuals were arrested recently after property was recovered at a residence in Joaquin following a search warrant. Shelby County Sheriff Willis Blackwell reports the arrests were the result of a burglary of a building that occurred on County Road 3229 in Center.
On November 7, 2016 Deputy Ruth Gonzales was dispatched to a residence on CR 3229 in reference to several items being stolen from storage buildings on the property. The complainant stated a weed-eater, chainsaw, miscellaneous tools/items, welding machine and a three-wheeler were taken from the location.
During the course of the investigation, the complainant notified Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Lieutenant Kevin Windham that some of the items stolen from the building had been sold at Loop 500 Salvage in Center. SCSO Investigators Del Birdwell and Michael Griffin made contact with staff at the salvage yard and retrieved video surveillance and a copy of the scale ticket which included the three-wheeler taken from the property.
The ticket listed Ervin Parrie, 43, of Logansport, LA., as the customer selling the scrap load. After reviewing the surveillance footage, it was determined the three-wheeler Parrie sold was the same item stolen from the location on CR 3229. A warrant was issued for Parrie for Burgulary of a Building. He was arrested in DeSoto Parish on November 28 and is awaiting transportation to the SCSO.
A search warrant was executed December 13, 2016 at the residence of Justin Haessly on Highway 7 East in Joaquin. While the search warrant was being served, numerous items believed to be stolen were recovered from inside the home. Haessly, 29, was taken into custody along with Barbara McKelvey, 27, of Joaquin, as per order of the warrant. A Poulan Woodsman Chainsaw believed to be taken from the burglary in Center was recovered during the search warrant. The chainsaw was identified by the complainant as one if the items taken from the location.
Information was received about property recovered from the home during interviews conducted at the SCSO. Center Police Department Detective Stephen Stroud was contacted and advised about a television found at the home which was reportedly taken from a building in Center. The television was confirmed to be stolen and was turned over to Det. Stroud.
McKelvey was charged with Hindering Apprehension/Prosecution of a Known Felon (F-3) - $4,000 bond and Burglary of Building (SJF) - $3,000 bond. She posted bond and was released December 17.
Haessly was charged with Burglary of a Building, State Jail Felony - $4,000 bond; Violation of Probation Original Charge: Possession of a Controlled Substance (F-4); Violation of Probation Original Charge: Possession of a Controlled Substance (M-B); Violation of Probation Original Charge: Possession of a Controlled Substance (M-B); Failure to Appear Original Charge: Resisting Arrest (M-A) – No Bond Panola County; Failure to Appear Original Charge: Possession of Dangerous Drug (M-A) – No Bond Panola County. He is currently in the Shelby County jail.
Deep East Texas Beekeepers meeting Detba invites the public to its next meeting at 6 pm on Tuesday January 3rd at the San Augustine Chamber of Commerce.
Community Watch Night Service will be held at Saint Paul M.B.C on Saturday, December 31st beginning at 10:00 p.m. Pastor Alvin Davis will be the speaker. Everyone is invited!!
St. John's Missionary Baptist Church Women's Department is hosting an evening of elegance, dinner, music and comedy at their annual Valentine's Banquet held at the John Dean Windham Civic Center on February 4, 2017 at 6:00pm. Catering will be provided by Tome' Catering with music by "Soul Flake" Band, Raquita McCollister and The Flash. Individual tickets can be purchased for $25 or a table of 8 can be reserved for $200. Contact any SJMBC member for more information.
The City of Center Public Water System, PWS #2100001, will be conducting water system maintenance beginning January 3, 2017, and lasting until January 31, 2017. The system will be switching to free chlorine as its main disinfection.
This maintenance, which is not a requirement, but is the recommended course of action set by the TCEQ/EPA for the accumulation of disinfection byproducts.
This is a routine maintenance procedure performed to help reduce unstable water conditions in our system and insure the highest quality of water being delivered to our customers.
During this maintenance period you may notice an odor or slight discoloration, but the safety of the water will not be affected. City maintenance crews and the Fire Department will also be aggressively flushing hydrants throughout the City's distribution system.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact our Public Works Department at 936-598-5241.
Yesterdays commisioners court which was the last of the year was also the last for Travis Rodgers Shelby County Commissioner Precent # 3. He retired yesterday after serving for 16 years on the commissioners court.
SearchTX is a web portal to allow judges to secure access to a consolidated database of case information that has been e-filed. The sole purpose of the e-file system developed by the oca was to provide a delivery system for attorneys to file documents electronically to the courts and that the information would only be retained 30 days. Plans to make it available to the public are in the near future as is set to go into effect early next year.
According to Lori Oliver District Clerk this program will lead to a loss in revenue for the county in copy and document fees. Between Jan-Dec 2015, the District Clerk's office collected $3,531 in copy fees which were placed in the General Fund of Shelby County. So far for 2016, Jan 1 - Dec 27, 2016, the records reflect a collection of $9,130 in copy fees which will go into the General Fund. Any loss of a revenue source for the County could eventually mean a loss of service to the residents of Shelby County. The fees charged by the county offices assist in the funding of County & State government. Shelby County and other Counties throughout the State should be able to maintain control of their records and any fee revenue these records provide to each respective county. This may seem like a small amount of money for this office, but for other offices and larger county offices this is very significant. This isn't just an issue about a fee or control of papers, but instead is about the protection of the Shelby County historical record as well as other individual Texas Counties historical records.
For all citzens of Center with left over holiday trash the Center City Annex located on Riggs st. next to the Korean shop has a dumpster for public use 8 am - 5 pm on Tuesdays, you must have a water bill with a city of center address, no paint and or toxic chemicals are allowed.
Pastor Marlin Cloudy Sr. and Abundant Love Ministries will host “Watch Night” services, Saturday, December 31st, beginning at 10’oclock pm.
Sunday, January 1, 2017, morning Sunday School is cancelled, however, we will celebrate in our regular noonday service beginning at 12:15pm.
You are welcome and invited, to both of these events, or any of our scheduled services. Abundant Love Ministries is located at 1426 Shelbyville St. Center, TX 75935
Cindy, Kim and I would like to give a huge thank you to everyone that helped in our County Attorney toy drive this year. We have been able to give gifts to over 650 kids at a result of the community's generosity.
Community Watch Night Service will be held at Saint Paul M.B.C on Saturday, December 31st beginning at 10:00 p.m. Pastor Alvin Davis will be the speaker. Everyone is invited!!
Have you ever seen an abandoned house that has become over taken by nature? Have you ever wanted to explore it and learn its story before it is gone forever? Photographer Melanie Dawn Parent spent a year documenting the remains of vanishing historic structures in DeSoto Parish. On January 7th at 2PM Melanie Parent will present the history and stories behind her photographs. Join her as she reveals her hauntingly beautiful work. Exhibit will run through January and February.
Mansfield State Historic Site is located on La. Hwy. 175, three miles south of Mansfield. Program Admission is $5.00 per person ages 13 and up; children 12 and under are free. General Park Admission is 4.00 per person; children 12 and under and seniors 62 and over are admitted free. For more information, call 318.872.1474 or 888.677.6267, or visit https://www.facebook.com/MansfieldSHS/events/ or LouisianaTravel.com
Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 27th day of December, 2016 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 monthly expenses.
2. Public discussion on agenda items
3. Consider and possibly approve letter of agreement with CVS Pharmacy to service clients of Shelby County Indigent Care.
4. Approve bonds for incoming elected officials.
5. Discuss and possible approve paying inmate medical expenses through the Indigent Care Program.
6. Sheriff Blackwell to request part time secretary.
7. Discuss resolution to oppose any change to current statutes regarding the custody of county and district court records.
Santa is on his way and should arrive at Sabine State Bank from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm today only. Santa is very busy but would like to see as many Shelby County kids, ages 1 to 92, as he possibly can. Please come by and see Santa, he will be here just for you!
Highway 96 near the San Augustine County line was briefly closed this morning while emergency crews worked two accidents. Dense fog and smoke from a controlled burn may have been a contributing factor in the cause of both wrecks.
The first wreck occured at 5:45 am and involved a 2013 GMC driven by Keneth Traver of Bronson, and a 1998 pickup driven by Jimmy Wimburly. According to Texas D.P.S. reports, both vehicles were north bound, when Traver slowed down and was rear ended by Wimburly. Traver was uninjured, Wimburly was transported to San Augustine Hospital by San Augustine EMS. He will be issued a ticket for fail to control speed.
The second accident occured when a San Augustine Fire Department vehicle was rear ended at the scene of the first accident. San Augustine Fireman Ernest Consford, driving a 1979 Ford fire truck with passanger Joseph Consford, was rear ended by an 18 wheeler, a 2016 frieght linner driven by Brian Butt of Woodville, TX. No one was injured, and Butt was issued a ticket for fail to control speed.
Posted
2016-12-22 05:55:00 by Shelby County Children's Advocacy Center
SCCAC Thanks Contributors forSuccessful Toy DriveThe staff at the Shelby CountyChildren’s Advocacy Center would like to thank those of you who contributed toour annual toy drive. Your generosity allowed us to surprise 78 children in ourcommunity with Christmas cheer during a time in their lives when it was mostneeded. Your gifts are a reminder to them that they are loved and valuable. Ourheartfelt thanks goes out to Shelby Savings Bank, Burkes Outlet, Catos, CountyAttorney Gary Rholes, First United Methodist Church, New Life Church, United PentecostalChurch, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Wright Chrysler Dodge Dealership, SanAugustine 4-H, Shelbyville Middle School JCC, Shelbyville High School StudentCouncil, the Vacation Divas, Delta Gamma, and each and every individual whogave food, funds, clothing, bikes, and toys.
The Child Advocacy Center accepted toys and books to use for children with their organization from Delta Gamma chapter of The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International of key women educators. Members filled over two large bags with toys and books for this December project.
The Stephen F. Austin State University School of Art and the Friends of the Visual Arts will present a free, one-night screening of “Inequality For All” at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, in The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House in downtown Nacogdoches.
In this 2013 film by Jacob Kornbluth, former U.S. Labor Secretary Robert Reich discusses the economic and social consequences that may result if the gap between rich and poor continues to widen. A best-selling author of 13 books, Reich is Chancellor’s Professor of Public Policy at UC-Berkley. He is considered an expert on economics.
In directing the film, Kornbluth said he drew on his personal experiences as a child living in extreme poverty to “make a film that a wide variety of people can connect to.”
“The film I hope we made is one that educates at the same time it inspires,” Kornbluth said, “and speaks to what we can hope for to make America better.”
”Inequality For All” won a Special Jury Prize at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and Best Documentary Film at the Traverse City Film Festival the same year.
This screening is part of the School of Art’s monthly Friday Film Series and is sponsored in part by William Arscott, Nacogdoches Film Festival, Karon Gillespie, Mike Mollot, David Kulhavy, Brad Maule, John and Kristen Heath, Galleria Z, Jill Carrington, Jean Stephens, Jim and Mary Neal, Richard Orton, Main Street Nacogdoches and Nacogdoches Junior Forum.
The Cole Art Center is located at 329 E. Main St. For more information, call (936) 468-1131.
Shelby County Sheriff Willis Blackwell reports the arrest of Eric John Bremer, 54, of Shelbyville, December 17, 2016.
A disturbance was reported to the SCSO dispatch in reference to Bremer making threats to kill a family member. Shelby County Sheriff Deputies Jeffrey Gogolewski and Ruth Gonzales responded to the residence on CR 2481 and made contact with the complainant. The caller advised that she and Bremer had been involved in a verbal altercation and Bremer was threatening to kill her.
While deputies were interviewing the complainant, numerous threatening text messages continued to be sent by Bremer. Bremer notified the complainant that he was on the way to the residence and headlights were observed coming down the roadway. Deputy Gogolewski observed Bremer’s vehicle circling the residence at an aggressive speed and attempted to intercept his vehicle.
Bremer pulled into the trailer park behind Trails End restaurant and exited his vehicle upon Deputy Gogolewski’s request. He was handcuffed and placed into the back of the patrol unit. One handgun was removed from Bremer’s waistband and two from the pockets of his jeans. Deputy Gogolewski asked Bremer if any more weapons were in the vehicle and he stated a shotgun.
Search of the vehicle revealed two additional rifles, one pistol and a shotgun. Each weapon located had one round chambered with a full complement of ammunition. A total of seven weapons were removed as evidence.
Bremer was booked into the SCSO December 18 for Criminal Attempt to Murder (F-2). He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Pct. 4, Jenny Hicks on a $45,000 bond. He posted bond and was released the same day.
DPS Launches Enhanced Traffic Enforcement for Holidays
AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging drivers to help make the holidays safer by driving sober and using extra caution. In an effort to protect travelers on our roadways, DPS Troopers, as well as local law enforcement across the state, will conduct traffic patrols throughout the holiday weekends of Dec. 23 - 26 and Dec. 31 - Jan. 1, looking for drunk drivers, speeders, seat belt violators and other dangerous drivers.
"Impaired driving or reckless behavior on the road can turn holiday celebrations into tragedies, and these DPS patrols are designed to help save lives by identifying drivers who disregard the law and endanger others," said DPS Director Steven McCraw. "By always driving sober, obeying traffic laws, and slowing down or moving over a lane when vehicles are stopped on the side of the road, Texans can help make our roads safer for everyone."
During the eight-day Christmas/New Year holiday enforcement effort last year, DPS troopers made 466 DWI arrests. DPS enforcement efforts also resulted in 9,174 speeding citations, 893 seat belt/child safety seat citations, 320 fugitive arrests and 286 felony arrests during the enforcement period.
DPS offers the following additional tips for safe travel during the holidays:
* Don't drink and drive. Designate a driver or take a cab.
* Slow down - especially in bad weather, construction areas and heavy traffic.
* Eliminate distractions, including the use of mobile devices.
* Buckle up everyone in the vehicle - it's the law.
* Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks that are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated - it's the law. Also, show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the road.
* Don't drive fatigued.
* Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
* Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and check the weather forecast before your trip begins.
Shelby County Sheriff Willis Blackwell reports that during an extensive investigation conducted by Chief Deputy D.J. Dickerson into several cases involving victims of Credit Card / Debit Card Abuse, a suspect was identified as a LaDarren Antonio Reed, 29 of Center.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a male subject contacting the victims by telephone and advising the victims that their phone bill had not been paid and would be disconnected if they did not pay it immediately. The caller was so persistent and pressing that the victims provided their pertinent information and credit card/debit card information. The caller has also advised victims that he was with the utility company as well as with the Sheriff’s Office attempting to get victim’s to give money for a widow’s fund.
During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that LaDarren Antonio Reed had used the victims fraudulently obtained information to set up a landline phone for his parents as well as pay utility bills at an apartment where he was staying with his girlfriend.
Arrest warrants were obtained for LaDarren Reed for (2) counts of Credit Card/Debit Card Abuse Enhanced, Felony 3 and (1) count of Credit Card/Debit Card Abuse, State Jail Felony. Reed was arrested by Officers of San Augustine Police Department in San Augustine on November 22, 2016.
Reed is currently incarcerated in the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office jail with total bond set at $35,000.
Posted
2016-12-20 11:42:00 by Texas Workforce Press Release
exas Workforce Commission sets employer tax rates for 2017
AUSTIN – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) today announced the average Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax rate for all employers will be 1.64 percent for Calendar Year (CY) 2017, up slightly from 1.46 percent in CY 2016. The average tax rate for experience-rated employers is 1.51 percent for CY 2017, and is up from 1.30 percent in CY 2016.
The minimum tax rate is paid by 302,738 employers, which represents 69.4 percent of experience-rated employers. The standard minimum UI tax rate paid by Texas employers in CY 2017 will be 0.59 percent, which is up from 0.45 percent in CY 2016. These employer-paid UI taxes replenish the Texas Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, which provides temporary income for Texas workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own.
An experience rating is determined by the amount of an employer’s taxable wages and the amount of UI benefits that have been paid to former employees and charged to the employer’s account for the last three years. An employer paying the standard minimum tax will pay $ 53.10 per employee in CY 2017 compared with $40.50 per employee in CY 2016. The maximum UI tax rate, paid by 3.7 percent of Texas employers, will be 8.21 percent, increasing from CY 2016 at 7.47 percent.
TWC is dedicated to finding ways to lower the financial impact of UI taxes on Texas employers. TWC and its 28 local workforce boards also are committed to helping UI claimants return to work as soon as possible. Through automated processes and database cross matches with state and federal agencies, TWC continues to strengthen and improve efforts to detect and prevent UI fraud. TWC pledges to continue efforts to keep taxes as low as possible and minimize the effects on Texas employers.
Although the Texas economy remains stable, Unemployment Insurance benefit payments outpaced tax collections this year which resulted in a deficit ratio of .10% in 2017 and a slight increase in the replenishment tax rate. The components of the CY 2017 tax rate are as follows:
• The general tax rate is based on claims against an employer’s account. If TWC has paid benefits to former employees who were laid off or separated through no fault of their own in the past three years, then those employers will pay a general tax.
• The replenishment tax rate is charged to all experience-rated employers to cover unemployment claims not charged to a specific employer. This tax tends to rise following economic slowdowns when claims increase and businesses close.
• The deficit tax rate is charged to all employers experienced-rated when the Trust Fund balance falls below the statutory level. It is experienced-rated based on the employer’s 2016 general tax and replenishment tax rates.
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• The employment training assessment (ETIA) is imposed on each employer paying contributions under the Texas Unemployment Compensation Act as a separate assessment of 0.10 percent of wages paid by an employer. Money from the assessment is deposited to the credit of the employment and training investment holding fund.
• The obligation assessment tax rate is collected to repay bond obligations. This tax is experience-rated and based on an employer’s tax rate from the prior year. The bonds scheduled to retire in July 2017 will eliminate the need for an obligation assessment tax after 2017.
Year Taxable
Wage Base Minimum
Tax Rate Maximum
Tax Rate Average
Tax Rate Average Experience
Tax Rate
2017 $9,000 0.59% 8.21% 1.64% 1.51%
2016 $9,000 0.45% 7.47% 1.46% 1.30%
2015 $9,000 0.47% 7.49% 1.54% 1.40%
2014 $9,000 0.51% 7.41% 1.66% 1.54%
2013 $9,000 0.54% 7.35% 1.82% 1.71%
2012 $9,000 0.61% 7.58% 1.96% 1.87%
2011 $9,000 0.78% 8.25% 2.03% 1.96%
2010 $9,000 0.72% 8.60% 1.83% 1.74%
2009 $9,000 0.26% 6.26% 0.99% 0.78%
2008 $9,000 0.10% 6.10% 0.92% 0.65%
2007 $9,000 0.29% 7.70% 1.30% 1.13%
2006 $9,000 0.40% 7.64% 1.51% 1.37%
2005 $9,000 0.58% 8.02% 1.74% 1.63%
2004 $9,000 0.67% 8.26% 1.74% 1.64%
2003 $9,000 0.67% 8.47% 1.68% 1.56%
The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the services it offers in coordination with its network of local workforce development boards, call 512-463-8942 or visit www.texasworkforce.org. To receive notifications about TWC programs and services subscribe to our email updates.
Daniel Williamson recently received his level 1 certification as the city of Center Court Clerk. A native of Shelby County he grew up in Tenaha, and has served the people of East Texas for 10 years as a paramedic and 11 years as a police dispatch officer. He came into his current position when the previous Court Clerk Edna Boykins passed away last year. Mr. Williamson explained the difficulty of training for this position and that there are three levels of certification. As to why he does what he does Daniel stated "I enjoy helping people and serving the public."
The Xi Alpha Delta Rho chapter of Beta Sigma Phi recently held a raffle for a one night stay at the beautiful Gaylord Texan Hotel and four tickets to ICE!, the spectacular exhibit of more than two million pounds of colorful hand carved ice. Congratulations to winners, Dr. Clayton Paul and Jackie Windham!
Pictured with the winners are Xi Alpha Delta Rho members Angie Turk, Jennifer Jones, Anna Stuever, Alison Scull, Amber Mathews and Benita Collard. Thank you to all who so generously supported our fundraising efforts through the purchase of a raffle ticket!
SWEPCO Seeks Base Rate Increase for its Texas Customers
AEP Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), a unit of American Electric Power (NYSE: AEP), today submitted to the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) a request to increase the company’s Texas rates by approximately $83 million. If approved, new rates could go into effect on January 2013 bills.
If approved, the request would result in an average increase of about $12.00 per month, or approximately 16 percent for a residential customer in Texas using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month.
The filing includes $87 million for two new power plants and $6 million for vegetation management, offset by $10 million in cost-saving measures for a requested net base rate increase of $83 million.
SWEPCO is seeking recovery of $87 million to include its two newest power plants in rates. The John W. Turk, Jr. Power Plant in Hempstead County of Southwest Arkansas is scheduled to be operational late this year. The filing also includes recovery for the J. Lamar Stall Unit, a 507-megawatt combined cycle natural gas facility located at Arsenal Hill Power Plant in Shreveport, La. The Stall Unit became operational in June 2010 but has not been fully included in SWEPCO rates. SWEPCO also is requesting an increase of approximately $6 million in the filing for the vegetation management (tree-trimming) program in order to continue the company’s highly successful program to improve reliability. SWEPCO was able to moderate the overall rate increase request by about $10 million from ongoing cost-saving measures.
“We realize that customers don’t like to see rates go up but this request is necessary to recover the significant investments we’ve had to make to ensure that we can continue to provide reliable, reasonably priced electric service,” said Venita McCellon-Allen, SWEPCO president and chief operating officer.
“The Stall and Turk Plants are the first non-peaking power plants that SWEPCO has built in the last 25 years. The Stall Unit has already proven its value by generating electricity for our customers during record energy demand periods in the summers of 2010 and 2011, and the Turk Plant brings fuel diversity to the region, which will support future reliability. The Turk Plant investments also include upgrades to the transmission system. Both are important additions to the area’s electric infrastructure, and allow SWEPCO to keep our rates affordable in Texas,” McCellon-Allen said.
SWEPCO’s current rates are 26 percent below the average for comparable Texas utilities and 40 percent below the national average. SWEPCO previously received a $25 million rate increase approval from the PUCT in April 2010, primarily to increase its tree trimming efforts in the service area, recover a portion of the Stall Unit, and to recover increased expenses since the company’s last base rate case in 1985.
As a base load unit, the Turk Plant is being built using advanced coal combustion technology and is designed to run 24 hours a day to serve demand that exists all of the time in the electric system. SWEPCO’s Texas customers will pay only for their share of the plant – about one-third – of SWEPCO’s ownership of 73 percent (440 megawatts) in the plant. The PUCT approved construction of the Turk Plant in July 2008.
“The economic vitality of the Texas cities we serve requires a dependable supply of electric power at a reasonable cost. Our communities rely on SWEPCO’s proven track record of affordable rates, reliability and customer service. We have contributed to economic development, growth and prosperity in Texas by utilizing a diversified energy portfolio of coal, natural gas and wind to provide affordable electricity to power the economic engine of this region,” said McCellon-Allen. “Our recent power plant projects help ensure that we can continue to provide reliable power to benefit the customers and the communities we serve for decades to come.”
SWEPCO serves 181,000 customers in East and North Texas, along with customers in western Arkansas and central and Northwest Louisiana for a total of more than 521,000. SWEPCO’s headquarters are in Shreveport, La. News releases and other information about SWEPCO can be found at www.swepco.com.
American Electric Power is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, delivering electricity to more than 5 million customers in 11 states. AEP ranks among the nation’s largest generators of electricity, owning nearly 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation’s largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765 kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined. AEP’s transmission system directly or indirectly serves about 10 percent of the electricity demand in the Eastern Interconnection, the interconnected transmission system that covers 38 eastern and central U.S. states and eastern Canada, and approximately 11 percent of the electricity demand in ERCOT, the transmission system that covers much of Texas. AEP’s utility units operate as AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana and east and north Texas). AEP’s headquarters are in Columbus, Ohio. News releases and other information about AEP can be found at www.aep.com.
This report made by AEP and its Registrant Subsidiaries contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Although AEP and each of its Registrant Subsidiaries believe that their expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, any such statements may be influenced by factors that could cause actual outcomes and results to be materially different from those projected. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are: electric load and customer growth; weather conditions, including storms; available sources and costs of, and transportation for, fuels and the creditworthiness and performance of fuel suppliers and transporters; availability of generating capacity and the performance of AEP’s generating plants; AEP’s ability to recover regulatory assets and stranded costs in connection with deregulation; AEP’s ability to recover increases in fuel and other energy costs through regulated or competitive electric rates; AEP’s ability to build or acquire generating capacity (including AEP’s ability to obtain any necessary regulatory approvals and permits) when needed at acceptable prices and terms and to recover those costs through applicable rate cases or competitive rates; new legislation, litigation and government regulation including requirements for reduced emissions of sulfur, nitrogen, mercury, carbon, soot or particulate matter and other substances; new legislation, litigation and government regulation including requirements for reduced emissions of sulfur, nitrogen, mercury, carbon, soot or particulate matter and other substances; timing and resolution of pending and future rate cases, negotiations and other regulatory decisions (including rate or other recovery for new investments, transmission service and environmental compliance); resolution of litigation (including pending Clean Air Act enforcement actions and disputes arising from the bankruptcy of Enron Corp. and related matters); AEP’s ability to constrain operation and maintenance costs; the economic climate and growth in AEP’s service territory and changes in market demand and demographic patterns; inflationary and interest rate trends; AEP’s ability to develop and execute a strategy based on a view regarding prices of electricity, natural gas and other energy-related commodities; changes in the creditworthiness of the counterparties with whom AEP has contractual arrangements, including participants in the energy trading market; actions of rating agencies, including changes in the ratings of debt; volatility and changes in markets for electricity, natural gas and other energy-related commodities; changes in utility regulation, including the potential for new legislation in Ohio and membership in and integration into regional transmission organizations; accounting pronouncements periodically issued by accounting standard-setting bodies; the performance of AEP’s pension and other postretirement benefit plans; prices for power that AEP generates and sells at wholesale; changes in technology, particularly with respect to new, developing or alternative sources of generation; other risks and unforeseen events, including wars, the effects of terrorism (including increased security costs), embargoes and other catastrophic events.
Shelby County Sheriff Willis Blackwell and Chief Deputy D.J. Dickerson recently attended the Sheriff’s Association of Texas 2016 Newly Elected Sheriff’s Seminar held in San Marcos, Texas, December 5-9, 2016.
The Newly Elected Sheriff’s Seminar is held every four years after election time for new Sheriffs and Chief Deputies, education, teaching and preparing them for office. This year, participants received training on a variety of topics, including: Duties and Responsibilities of the Sheriff, Model Policies, Inmate Transportation, Open Records, Media Relations, Texas Department of Public Safety Resources, TDCL Intake and Classifications, Estray Law, Parole Warrants, Civil Processes, Texas Commission on Jail Standards Regulations, Cold Case Review Team, Evidence and Property Room Liabilities, New Technology, Labor Laws, Ethics and many more.
This seminar also allows them a comprehensive overview of the responsibilities of their new office and a chance to meet their peers to whom they can look to for support during the coming term.
(Longview, Texas)-LeTourneau University will host the Supreme Court of Texas for oral arguments in two cases Thursday, Feb. 16, in the Belcher Center at LETU's main campus, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave. in Longview.
The public is invited to attend the oral arguments, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., including a question-and-answer session. People planning to attend should arrive at least 45 minutes early to pass security screening before arguments begin and should not bring backpacks and purses. All cell phones will be required to be turned off . No flash photography is permitted.
The two cases the Court will hear will be set in the next few weeks.
The Texas Supreme Court's visit to LeTourneau University, one of occasional court sessions outside Austin, is planned to educate students and the public about Texas government and how the Court - the highest court in the state for civil appeals - operates.
Justices will hold breakout sessions from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., on campus for students and at the Gregg County Courthouse for attorneys and other legal professionals. Justice Jeffrey S. Boyd, an ordained minister, also will conduct an afternoon session on "God, the Courts and the Law" in the Belcher Center. The public is invited.
Concurrently, LETU is holding "Law as a Career Day" on campus. This legal-career fair is designed for the public, especially college and high school students, seeking to learn more about legal careers. Law schools, paralegal schools and court-reporter schools will have recruiting booths to provide information and answer questions about their programs.
In the two sessions for students, Justice Don Willett will lead one for college students, and Justice John Devine will lead the other for high school students. High school students who attend also will be offered tours of the university and visits with faculty.
Students who register will be provided a free lunch.
Lawyers will be eligible for 2.5 hours of continuing legal-education credit for attending the oral arguments and the question-and-answer session with the Court. Each of seven afternoon breakout sessions at the Gregg County Courthouse will offer 1.5 hours of CLE credit.
A schedule of events and descriptions of breakout sessions is available on the Gregg County Bar Association web page, www.greggcountybar.com. For more information, contact Gregg County Bar Association President Jessica LaRue at jessica@harbourlaw.com<mailto:jessica@harbourlaw.com>.
LeTourneau University is the Christian polytechnic university in the nation where educators engage students to nurture Christian virtue, develop competency and ingenuity in their professional fields, integrate faith and work, and serve the local and global community. LETU offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs across a range of disciplines and delivery models at LETU's residential campus in Longview, Texas, and in hybrid and fully online options at centers in Dallas and Houston.
The Blue Santa program is Santa's helper! If you know a Child who Santa may not get to visit this year, please take the time to fill out an application and drop it off at the Center Police Department.
Applications will be accepted until NOON on Tuesday, December 20, 2016. Toys will be delivered to families between NOON on December 23 through 8 PM on Christmas Eve.
Who is eligible: Any child, who because of financial hardship, may not be able to receive a Christmas gift from Santa.
Merry Christmas from the Center Police Department!
Shop with a Cop
If anyone knows of a troubled teen (12-15) who would benefit from having a mentor in the Police Department. They can contact Officer Jim Blackwell at the Center Police Department for more information at 936-598-2788.
We will be accepting 4 very special little elves to shop for needy kids. These little elves will be provided with spending money to purchase gifts for a needy child. The child will shop with a police officer and do a “good deed”. This is a limited opportunity and only for teenage children who qualify.
CITY OF TENAHA REGULAR CALLED COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
December 20, 2016
If during the course of the meeting, any discussion of items on the Agenda that should be held in executive or closed session, the Council will convene in executive or closed session, in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Government Code Section 551 and Texas Revised Civil Statues.
The City Council of Tenaha will meet in regular session on Monday – December 20, 2016 at 5:15 p.m. at the Tenaha Municipal Building located at 238 N. George Bowers Drive, Tenaha, Texas.
Order of Business:
Call to Order & Roll Call
Pledge and Prayer
Welcome Guests/Public Comments
Consider Approval for Minutes from November 28, 2016 Regular Scheduled Council Meeting – ACTION
Consider Approval for November 2016 Financials – ACTION
Open Floor for Council Member Appointment Discussion/Nominations
Consider Approval of Nominations – ACTION
Consider Approval of Resolution 2016-12-20-1R Designating East Texas Press as the Official Newspaper for the City Of Tenaha – ACTION
Consider Approval for Revision Made to Special Called Council Meeting Minutes – November 10, 2016 - ACTION
Update Regarding Morrow vs. Washington Pending Litigation
A pre-construction meeting was held at the TxDOT Lufkin Area Office Thursday for contractors and TxDOT officials to set start dates for work to begin on a project in Houston County that will benefit Mission Tejas State Park.
Pinto Construction, of Nacogdoches, contractor for the $750,000 construction project, is planning to begin work the first week in January, weather permitting. Completion should be late summer 2017.
The construction project includes constructing a new entrance and parking lots near the new visitor's center, also under construction at Mission Tejas State Park, located outside Weches in Houston County. The historical site is a 660-acre park, situated about 22 miles northeast of Crockett.
Motorists traveling to the area are urged to be aware and alert to workers and moving equipment as the project begins and progresses. Obey all signage and reduce speed in the park area.
For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov<mailto:Rhonda.OaksDonaldson@txdot.gov> or (936) 633-4395.
The City Council of Joaquin will meet in regular session Tuesday, December 20, 2016
6:00 p.m. at The Joaquin City Hall located at 124 North Preston, Joaquin, Texas.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest.
Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance.
Open Forum.
Council approval of the previous month’s minutes.
Monthly Reports:
City Secretary
Utility Billing Manager
Public Works Manager
Water Department
Fire Department
Discussion & Council Action on Payment of Bills.
Discussion & Council Action on adoption of a resolution authorizing the submission of a Texas Community Development Block Grant application to the Texas Department of Agriculture under the 2017-2018 Community Development fund.
Adjournment.
IF during the course of the of the meeting, any discussion of items on the Agenda should be held in executive or closed session, the Council will convene in executive or closed session, in accordance With the Texas Open Meetings Act, Governmental Code Section 551 and Texas Revised Civil Statutes.
As state and local health departments investigate five locally transmitted cases of Zika virus disease in a small area of Brownsville, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued updated guidance for pregnant women living in and traveling to Brownsville.
While the risk of exposure in Brownsville is thought to be low, in accordance with the CDC guidance, the Texas Department of State Health Services recommends all pregnant Brownsville residents and those who travel there on or after Oct. 29 be tested for Zika. Residents and frequent travelers, who visit Brownsville on a daily or weekly basis, should get routine Zika testing once during the first trimester of pregnancy and once during the second trimester. Pregnant women with limited travel should discuss it with their doctor and be tested based on when the travel occurred. Because of the risk of sexual transmission, the same recommendations apply to women who have sex without a condom with a partner who is a Brownsville resident or traveler.
Health care providers can find more detailed testing guidance in the CDC health alert at https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/han00399.asp. DSHS is also emphasizing its previous guidance to test pregnant women who have Zika symptoms or who travel to Mexico or other areas where mosquitoes are spreading Zika.
“Right now, we’re aware that local transmission has occurred in a small area of Brownsville,” said Dr. John Hellerstedt, DSHS commissioner. “However, we want to cast a wide net with testing to develop a clearer picture of what is happening with Zika in the area and provide pregnant women with more information about their health.”
Health officials continue to recommend pregnant women avoid travel across the border to Mexico, given the ongoing local transmission of Zika there. DSHS also continues to urge everyone strictly follow personal precautions against Zika, including the use of mosquito repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants. DSHS particularly urges the use of these precautions in higher risk areas along the border and during any travel to areas with active Zika transmission.
Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito, though it can also spread by sexual contact. The four most common symptoms are fever, itchy rash, joint pain and eye redness. While symptoms are usually minor, Zika can also cause severe birth defects, including microcephaly, and other poor birth outcomes in some women infected during pregnancy. More guidance for clinicians, recommendations for the public and updated case counts are available at TexasZika.org.
The Timpson Ministerial Alliance will be hosting a Community Christmas Dinner at First Methodist Church. The event will be held Saturday, December 17, 2016 between the hours of 11:00 am - 1:00 pm.
First Methodist is located on 312 Sale St. in Timpson, Texas. There is no charge.
The PWPS will be holding their December meeting Saturday, December 17, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church, on Porter St. Center, TX. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. this will be the Christmas gathering and all members and guests are invited to attend.
Members are encouraged to bring their favorite finger food and favorite friend. Anyone who uses a camera or wants to learn how to use their camera is invited to attend.
For more information, contact Billie Jones, 936-591-2426, or jonbill392@hughes.net.
Posted
2016-12-15 09:37:00 by Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade Committee announces the winners of the virtual parade, the alternate plan for the 17th annual Santa’s Christmas Parade that was cancelled due to inclement weather, sponsored by Shelby Savings Bank. Registered parade participants were included in the virtual parade by display or video of the parade floats. The theme for the parade was “O Christmas Tree”.
Winners by Category are:
BUSINESS CATEGORY:
$100 -- 1st Place – City of Center
$50 -- 2nd Place – Ace Hardware of East Texas
CIVIC ORGANIZATION CATEGORY:
$100 -- 1st Place – Center Police Department Ladies Auxiliary
Other supporters that helped make the Virtual Parade possible include Farmers State Bank, City of Center, Specter Inc., and Tyson Foods.
For more information please contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce at (936) 598-3682 or info@shelbycountychamber.com.
Had several folks ask why I can not seem to get the outdoor thermostat regulated. Well, no one gave me the controls and you know how fickle "Mother Nature" continues to be at keeping us all on our toes and she prides herself in making weather forecast be in error.
I also had someone ask if I could send out a voice recording of my forecasts. I will give it a try. Let me know what you think. I don't want to create a load on the lack of Internet bandwidth we have here in San Augustine. The gentleman said he has trouble reading and liked listening when I was on the Center Radio Station talking about the weather.
- Today by mid afternoon clouds then some clearing 60/38
- Thur 50/38 cooler due to mostly clear skies
- Friday 66/65 with clouds, cold front, and rain 1/10 inch
- Saturday 73/36 cloudy with rain 1/4 to 1/2", cold arctic air
- Sunday 39/24 cold, miserable stay in day
- Monday 43/39 but clear
- Then 40's and low 50's for highs with mid 30's and low 40s with MORE rain
Timpson Lodge #437 is raffling off a $500 gift certificate to Academy Sports and Outdoors. It's for their scholarship fund. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20.
The drawing will be held December 15th. Need not be present to win. Call Jesse at 936 254-9213 for information.
Woodmen Life Chapter 250 will hold their annual Christmas party on Monday, December 19th, 2016 at 6:00 pm. The party will be held at Lynn Locke's located on Hwy 96 South in Center.
Members will enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner and participate in a Chinese gift exchange. Limit on Chinese gift is $10, and you may bring male, female, or a unisex gift.
Members will also be donating to the Rainbow Room for the kids of Shelby County again this year. If you would like to help by donating to the Rainbow Room, you can drop off your donations at this time.
Magic is in the air....... The "Blue Santa Toy Drive" is in full force! The Center Police Department and Outreach Ministries have partnered to make sure that all the boys and girls of our county have a Merry Christmas!
Join Shelby Savings Bank by spreading the love of the season. Drop off a toy at our Center Main branch or at the Center PD by December 21st.
Thank you Center Police Department and Outreach Ministries for your special delivery.
That noise we heard on Christmas Eve night while we were snuggled in bed in that small two-bedroom house that my parents rented near Trout School, well, it was all this little girl needed to feel safe and secure. Christmas was special. Santa was on his way.
Nevertheless, it was the overwhelming sense of curiosity on my sister’s part that made her slip out of that full-size bed to find out what, or who, made the noise. A second later, she bolted back onto that feather mattress proclaiming that she had seen him - HIM. She said he was big, his back was turned to her and it was dark, but there he was, kneeling beneath our Christmas tree. Santa was in our living room!
Whispering excitedly, we pulled those homemade quilts over our heads so our muffled giggles wouldn’t be heard. I remember squeezing my eyes closed as tight as I could, smiling from ear to ear, wishing I had been the one to see him.
It’s those kinds of memories that keep Christmas special for me and I know you have similar ones that you recall each year. Christmastime is meant to be full of joy, a time when all is right with the world.
Nevertheless, it doesn’t take long to lose our merry and bright when we walk up to that long line at the checkout, or sit in that long line of traffic. Get ready for the marketing pitches and watch out for the scams, telling us where we shop, what to shop for, where to find the best prices, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and it goes on and on.
With all the hubbub, it’s easy to forget the small things that really make holiday memories. Things like homemade cookies, a visit to a nursing home, paying it forward, listening to children sing Christmas carols, checking out Rudolph (the oil-pumping unit) or watching a child open presents.
The TxDOT family would like to wish a happy holiday season to you and yours. With that, we also want to spread a little merry and bright. The statistics of holiday alcohol-related crashes were fewer in 2015 than 2014. That’s because more of you are making the wise choice not to drink and drive.
From Dec.1, 2015 through Jan. 1, 2016, there were 2,374 alcohol-related crashes in Texas that resulted in 102 fatalities and 205 injuries. That number is still too high, but it represents a 9-percent decrease from the same time period in 2014, when 2,417 alcohol-related crashes were reported that resulted in 112 fatalities and 192 injuries. Those statistics are worth celebrating
We want this downward trend to continue. We want your holidays to be memorable in a happy way. As you plan your holiday parties, remember to make plans for choosing a sober ride. It can save a life, not to mention the $17,000 in fines and fees. We hope your holidays don’t include those memories.
This is the time to celebrate and create wonderful memories. I hope you resist the urge to give in to the commercialization. It’s not about what’s under the tree – but more about who is around that tree with you.
Beneath my tree that Christmas morning long ago, I found some new gloves, a red pajama bag shaped like a dog with some new pajamas zipped inside, and the gift that Santa left the night before when my sister peeked around the corner – a brand new Barbie and a box of hand-sewn Barbie clothes!
I took that Barbie with me to visit my grandparents that day. I wanted to show it off and tell the story about how my sister had seen Santa the night before. However, the happiest memory of all that day was gathering around a crowded table with aunts, uncles, cousins and my own little family of four at my grandparent’s home just south of Nacogdoches.
Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year. Drive safely, make good choices and remember to keep your memories of this holiday season merry and bright!
Wednesday, December 14, 2016 TODAY: Day shift 28 degree room, labeling, and shipping will work. 2nd and 3rd shift shipping will work. All other departments will not work.
Thursday, December 15, 2016 TOMMORROW: The plant will return to a normal work schedule.
A meeting, to develop the Shelby County Criminal Justice Strategic Community Plan, will be held on Wednesday, January 4, 2017, at the Shelby County Court House, Community Room, 2nd floor, from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon.
Anyone involved or interested in law enforcement, court system, non-profit organizations, school districts, faith-based organizations and concerned citizens are encouraged to come out and participate in developing the community plan. This plan will help our county identify challenges and resources, determine solutions, assist with future planning and grant writing opportunities.
For further information, please contact Lenola Wyatt at 936-332-4949 or email at lenolatutt@sbcglobal.net.
The Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts and School of Music will present Gian Carlo Menotti’s “Amahl and the Night Visitors” at 6 p.m. Thursday, December 15, and at 11 a.m. Friday, December 16, in Cole Concert Hall in the Wright Music Building on the SFA campus.
“Amahl and the Night Visitors,” a 45-minute Christmas opera performed in English, has delighted audiences since its television premiere in 1951. The Three Kings, on their search for the Christ Child, stop for the night at the home of a widow and her young, disabled son.
“This touching – and often funny – tale will leave a lasting impression and is a perfect introduction to opera for children of all ages,” said Dr. Scott LaGraff, SFA associate professor of voice.
Noble Peck, son of Dr. and Mrs. Adam Peck, will sing the title role of Amahl. SFA Dance Program students Ashley Jensen and Montrell Releford are dancers, and Haley Hoss Jameson, associate professor of dance, will serve as choreographer.
Other cast members for the Thursday night performance include Julie Moore, Tyler senior, as the mother; Zachary Thomas Newman, Baytown graduate student, as Kaspar; Andrew Michael Sanchez, San Antonio senior, as Melchior; and Brenton Mattox, Dayton graduate student, as Balthazar. Friday performance cast members are Kelsey Quinn, San Antonio graduate student, as the mother; René Rodriguez, Houston senior, as Kaspar; Roland Rodriguez, Houston senior, as Melchior; and E.J. Grayson, Houston senior, as Balthazar. Jacob Rivas, The Colony junior, is Page for both performances.
The opera is part of the School of Music’s Cole Performing Arts Series.
Tickets for the Thursday night performance are $8 for adults and $6 for seniors, students and youth. Tickets for the Friday morning performance are $6 for individuals and $5 each for groups of 20 or more. For tickets or information, visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.
On Saturday, January 7, 2017 the Main Street Junk in the Trunk Trades Days will be held in downtown San Augustine around the courthouse square. The Main Street Program is seeking vendors and shoppers to participate. Call 936-201-9798 or 936-275-3172 for more information.
The first signs of any trouble started when Neera developed skin lesions at 8 years old. Neera is the daughter of Calvin and Janean Smith.
We started taking her to a dermatologist in Shreveport where they burnt off the skin lesions. Eventually, a biopsy of the lesion was taken. This is the point when we found out that Neera had cancer. She was sent to St. Jude Children's Hospital in Tennessee. Once we were at St. Jude, Neera was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoma. The cancer had progressed too her small intestine and surgery was done to remove it.
Neera required 6 chemo treatments over the course of six months. She began her first treatment in August of 2012 and finished in February 2013. Over the course of those treatments Neera lost all her hair. While at St. Jude, she got the opportunity to meet several celebrities. Neera came home and was healthy for almost a year.
Neera's cancer returned in August of 2015. She was sent back to St. Jude's in Tennessee where she underwent 5 surgeries. Currently, Neera is taking 6 pills a week for her chemo treatments. We go once a week to Shreveport to see a doctor who is an affiliate of St. Jude in Tennessee. We also travel to Tennessee once a month.
Right now, Neera is doing well. Her next appointment will be December 15th.
Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the above named Commissioners Court will be held on Tuesday, the 13th day of December, 2016 at 9:00 o’clock A.M. in the Commissioners Court Room at 100 W. Columbia, Room 103, San Augustine, Texas, at which time the following will be discussed and appropriate action taken; pursuant to B.T.C.A. Government Code Chapter 51, Open Meetings Act, including all Subchapters and Sections:
NO CELL PHONES, AUDIBLE PAGERS, AND/OR BEEPERS SHALL BE USED WHILE COURT IS IN SESSION
•Establish Quorum
•Invocation
•Pledge of allegiance to the United States Flag
•Pledge of allegiance to the Texas Flag
•CALL TO ORDER – 9:00 a.m.
Comments from the bench
1.Discuss and co sider approval of the minutes for the Commissioners Court held on November 22, 2016.
Discuss and consider Monthly Reports:
a)Payrolld) County Clerk’s Report g) Sheriff’s Department Report
b) Expenditurese) District Clerk’s Report h) Justice of the Peace Report
c) Treasurer Reportf) Tax Office Report i)Auditor Report
2.PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS/COMMENTS - opportunity for the general public to address the Court on any matter. The Court may not discuss any presented issue, nor may any action be taken on any issue at this time. Comments are limited to 3 minutes
3.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: Approve travel vouchers – Judge Samye Johnson
4.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: County Road Report Update – County Commissioners
5.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: Approval of Bond for incoming Elected Officers – Judge Samye Johnson
6.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: Resolution of the San Augustine County Commissioners Court, Texas Opposition to re: SearchTX – District Clerk Carman Brown/ County Clerk Margo Noble / County Judge Samye Johnson
7.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: 1919 Jail Committee- San Augustine Garden Club- Betty Olgesbee
8.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: Update on discussion of options for leasing Sheriff Office vehicles – Sheriff Elect Robert Cartwright
9.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: Discussion of changing the December 27, 2016 Commissioners Court to December 28, 2016 – County Commissioners
10.Discuss and take appropriate action Re:Opening of the Glauconite Rock and Fuel sealed bids – County Auditor Joe Verhalen
11.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: Comments concerning the commitment the Master Gardeners has made to the 4-H Program – County Agent Shane Bridges
12.Discuss and take appropriate action Re: Presentation and Acceptance of New Master Gardener (reception for the Master Gardeners after court) – Master Gardener President Mike Malone
EXECUTIVE SESSION (Closed to public)
Pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code
EXECUTIVE SESSION ITEMS
Note 1 Gov’t Code Ann 551.071, Consultation with Attorney
Note 2 Gov’t Code Ann 551.072, Real Property
Note 3 Gov’t Code Ann 551.074, Personnel Matters
Note 4 Gov’t Code Ann 551.076, Security
Note 5 Gov’t Code Ann 551.087, Economic Development Negotiations
The Commissioners Court will consider the following items in Executive Session. The Commissioners Court may also consider any other matter posted on the agenda if there are issues that require consideration in Executive Session and the Commissioners Court announces that the item will be considered during Executive Session.
RESUME OPEN SESSION AND TAKE ANY NECESSARY ACTION RESULTING FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION DELIBERATIONS.
13.ADJOURNMENT
I, the undersigned County Clerk, do hereby certify NOTICE of Regular meeting of the above named Commissioners Court is a true and correct copy of said Notice and that I have caused said Notice to be posted on the doors at the Courthouse of San Augustine County, Texas located at 100 W. Columbia Street on the 18th day of November, 2016.
The Shelby County Child Wellness Board and Center Broadcasting Company are holding a Empty stocking fund raiser this Saturday 9 am - 2 pm at the Center Walmart parking lot. Linda K Russell will be there with her band and Center Broadcasting will be doing a live remote 10-12.
LUFKIN - Motorists traveling southbound on US 59 at the Angelina River Bridge should be prepared for delays beginning Monday.
Concrete is expected to be poured, weather permitting, to replace the southbound bridge railing. Traffic will be confined to one lane on the southbound bridge throughout the week. In addition, there will be a 10-foot width restriction on the bridge during the closure. The width restriction will be in force from 1-mile north of the Nacogdoches/Angelina County line to just south of the Angelina County line at the Angelina River.
The closure is scheduled as part of the ongoing construction project designed to upgrade and replace bridge railings on US 59 North between Lufkin and Nacogdoches. Motorists are urged to reduce speed near the work area and be alert to workers near the river bridge. Lighted message boards are in place to remind and prepare motorists to be cautious as they approach the lane closure.
A.L. Helmcamp, Buffalo Tx., contractor for the $1.1 million project, is expected to complete the work by late February, weather permitting. Southbound lanes of traffic should return to normal by the end of next week.
For more information regarding location of construction projects and closures in the nine-county Lufkin District, visit drivetexas.org.
For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov<mailto:Rhonda.OaksDonaldson@txdot.gov> or (936) 633-4395.
Regional Business Development Manager, Steve Waters, along with the Sabine State Bank staff, donated $500 to the CHS UIL organization. This money goes towards the annual UIL tournament CHS holds, and helps cover the costs of other expenses throughout the year.
The UIL academic program offers students an opportunity to participate in more than 30 events, such as computer applications, mathematics, journalism, and science. It gives students the opportunity to expand their knowledge in certain subjects that interest them, improve skills, and bring home awards from
competitions with other schools around the state.
The Center UIL Academic Program has been successful throughout the years, and continues to grow. The district meet will be held in March. Donations towards the organization are greatly appreciated and benefit more than 65 students at CHS.
Steve Waters (right) poses alongside CHS UIL seniors, Lexi Parker and Kimberly Rodriguez, and Sabine State Bank Staff members. Photo: Chris Watlington
Joaquin First United Methodist Church Motorcycle Rally December 9,10, 11,2016
Gather all you family members, friends and neighbors and come join us for a fun filled day. The East Texas Chopper Guys (ETCG) Toy Run/Food Drive will be held Saturday December 10, at The Joaquin First United Methodist Church (Just over the railroad tracks in Joaquin)
Joaquin First United Methodist Church is also having their first motorcycle rally, December 9,10, 11th. For those of you who would like to camp out they will have fire pits, wiener roast, smores, Picking/Singing around the camp fire Friday and Saturday night and Church Services Sunday morning.
Events for the day for ETCG:
• Car show, Bike Show, and Tractor show will take place. Sign in starts at 10:00 AM. Skippy makes some very unique trophies. Bring your ride out and see if you can take one of these Trophies home!!
• Parade-1:00 Sign up at School 12 o'clock.
• Rumor has it, the jolly fella in the red suit (Santa) will be there about 2 o’clock.
• Games for the children( Ms Teresa does such a good job with the kids)
• Free Stockings filled with goodies for the kids
• Cakewalk
• Raffle items, some really nice items again this year -.
• Auction items (There will be some AWESOME ITEMS)
• Food Vendor (G&N Scooter Shack)
We ask everyone to bring a New Unwrapped toy, or canned good, or a cash donation. We appreciate anything and everything!! All donations go to Gail Samford Joaquin Christian Services. There are so many children in Shelby County that need extra help, not just at Christmas time but year round. Gail Samford not only helps make sure these children have a Merry Christmas, but she helps them through the year. Our group does our best to help make things easier for her to help these children year round.
Thank you for your support in advance
Any questions please call Nancy Stevens 936-269-3661
The deadline to submit ballots for the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) 2016 County Committee Elections has been extended to ensure farmers and ranchers have sufficient time to vote. Eligible voters now have until December 13, 2016 to return ballots to their local FSA offices. Producers in local administrative area 1, 4, 6 or 9 who have not received their ballot should pick one up at the Nacogdoches Service Center located at 1122 N University DR STE R, or phone 936-564-5891 extension 2.
FSA has modified the ballot, making it easily identifiable and less likely to be overlooked. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked no later than December 13, 2016. Newly elected committee members will take office January 1, 2017.
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, conservation, indemnity, disaster and emergency programs.
Producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the County Committee election. Approximately 1.5 million producers are currently eligible to vote. 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.
For more information, visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov/elections or contact the Nacogdoches Service Center office at 936-564-5891.
The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back hundreds of years to a monk named St. Nicholas. It is believed that Nicholas was born sometime around 280 A.D. in Patara, near Myra in modern-day Turkey. Much admired for his piety and kindness, St. Nicholas became the subject of many legends. It is said that he gave away all of his inherited wealth and traveled the countryside helping the poor and sick. One of the best known of the St. Nicholas stories is that he saved three poor sisters from being sold into slavery or prostitution by their father by providing them with a dowry so that they could be married. Over the course of many years, Nicholas’s popularity spread and he became known as the protector of children and sailors. His feast day is celebrated on the anniversary of his death, December 6. This was traditionally considered a lucky day to make large purchases or to get married. By the Renaissance, St. Nicholas was the most popular saint in Europe. Even after the Protestant Reformation, when the veneration of saints began to be discouraged, St. Nicholas maintained a positive reputation, especially in Holland.
Posted
2016-12-07 06:49:00 by Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Parade Committee invite the public to view the City of Center Christmas Parade float on Wednesday, December 7. The Christmas Parade float will be on display from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Civic Center, located at 146 Express Boulevard in Center.
The City of Center lighted exhibit will welcome visitors with candy and a wave from Santa. The float has been designed and engineered by city employees.
For more information please contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce at (936) 598-3682 or info@shelbycountychamber.com.
Chromebook insurance is available for $25. More information is available on the school website and an insurance form will be sent home with students. The insurance form must be returned prior to receiving the Chromebook. Students will keep the same Chromebook throughout high school and will have the option to purchase their Chromebook at a pro-rated cost
Posted
2016-12-06 12:02:00 by Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
In cooperation with the Texas Forest Country Partnership, the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Center Motor Company as Shelby County's Small Business of the Year, for their dedication to and support of the community. They were honored at the Governor's Small Business Forum and Economic Summit that was held in November at the Pitser Garrison Civic Center in Lufkin.
Besides the recognition of a Small Business of the Year from each of the twelve Texas Forest Country counties by the Governor's Office, there were speakers from Texas Workforce Commission, the Governor's Office on Tourism, a special session on cyber-security for small businesses, and nationally known economist and futurist Dr. Lowell Catlett.
The Annual Silver Bucket Award was awarded to Senator Robert Nichols for his contributions and many years of service to east Texas.
Pictured are (from left) Brad Knapp, Governor's office, Jennifer Jones, Kevin Jones, Center Mayor David Chadwick, Ruth Hughs, Workforce Commission and Pam Phelps, Executive Director of the Shelby County Chamber.
Posted
2016-12-06 12:00:00 by Shelby County Court House
Notice is hereby given that a Workshop of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 8th day of December, 2016 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. Discuss Personnel Policy Manuals with TAC representatives.
The Timpson Area Chamber of Commerce joins the Nacogdoches Chamber of Commerce and invites the public to an open house celebration on Tuesday, December 6th from 4:30 till 6:30 for Premium Graphics & Design between Timpson and Garrison right off HWY 59 in front of Smith Sawmill Service.
The public is invited to browse, socialize and enjoy the evening. BBQ sliders will be provided by Thralls Catering along with cookies, desserts, punch and door prizes. Christmas shirts, decorations and other products on display. Premium Graphics designs school sportswear for fans and teams.
Premium Graphics & Design is located at 181 County Road 4763, Off HWY 59 between Timpson & Garrison.
WASHINGTON — Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or another special occasion, the U.S. Postal Service has new Forever stamps for you along with favorites from recent years.
“Since 1893, we have issued stamps celebrating the cultures of people who have come together from around the world,” said Postal Service Director of Stamp Services Mary-Anne Penner. “We hope America will take advantage of our diverse selection of stamps as they extend their best wishes to friends, family and loved ones.”
Penner also noted that customers can save a trip to the Post Office by purchasing the stamps online at usps.com/shop or by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724).
Here’s a list of holiday and special occasion stamps available this year: Christmas Magi, Colorful Celebrations, Diwali, Eid Greetings, Florentine Madonna and Child, Hanukkah, Holiday Windows, Holy Family, Kwanzaa, Nativity and Neon Celebrate!.
Texans who are 65 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 at the Shelby County Appraisal District office.
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. Taxes accumulate with 8 percent interest per year. The law extends the tax deferral to the surviving spouse of the person who deferred taxes on the homestead if the surviving spouse was at least 55 years old when the deceased spouse died.
A filed tax deferral affidavit keeps homeowners from losing their homesteads because of delinquent property taxes. A pending sale to foreclose on the homestead’s tax lien will also cease as a result of filing a tax deferral affidavit. In addition, no taxing unit can start or continue a lawsuit to collect delinquent taxes once an affidavit is filed. There are no penalties on delinquent taxes during the deferral period; however, a tax deferral does not cancel penalties that were already due.
All deferred taxes and interest become due when the homeowner or surviving spouse no longer own and live in the home. If the tax debt remains unpaid at that time, penalties may be imposed and taxing units may take legal action to collect the past due amount.
For further details about property tax deferral, contact the Shelby County Appraisal District at (936) 598-6171. Information is also available on the Comptroller’s Property Tax Assistance Division’s website at www.comptroller.texas.gov/taxinfo/proptax/.
Posted
2016-12-05 11:26:00 by Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors along with Mooney’s Emporium will welcome Chamber members to a Business After Hours event on Tuesday, December 6 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 107 San Augustine Street. Chelle Mooney will showcase their newest inventory items.
Mooney’s Emporium specializes in creating unique and personalized gifts and has a great variety of custom made tee shirts. This event will feature new apparel, sale items and samples of food and drink products that are also available in the store. Chamber members and Young Professionals Network members are asked to bring their business cards to exchange and be eligible for door prizes during the event. Refreshments will be served.
For more information please contact the Chamber at 936-598-3682 or info@shelbycountychamber.com.
The mission statement of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce is organized to promote and advance economic enrichment and development, tourism, and the social and civic interest of Shelby County and adjoining areas. For additional information, please call 936.598.3682, email info@shelbycountychamber.com or visit www.shelbycountychamber.com.
As the holidays approach, TxDOT contractors and maintenance employees are working to facilitate construction and maintenance projects that will enhance safety and improve traffic flow. As motorists plan their holiday shopping and travel, TxDOT urges drivers to stay alert, reduce speed through work areas and drive to conditions. Watch out for workers near the roadways.
SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY
US 96: Traffic is detoured as crews work to add passing lanes and reconstruct pavement from the Shelby County line to FM 3451.
SH 21: Crews will continue replacing metal guard fence and safety treating fixed objects from SH 147 to FM 1.
SH 147: Crews will work to level up pavement and perform ditch maintenance.
SH 103: Tree contractors are scheduled to work in the area and crews will be repairing road base and maintaining ditches and treating overgrown vegetation.
FM 1175: Crews will repair and replace metal beam guard fencing from the end of the pavement to FM 83.
FM 705: Crews will continue to safety treat fixed objects from SH 147 to the end of pavement.
SHELBY COUNTY
US 84: Work will continue on concrete paving in the eastbound lanes of the Texas/Louisiana Bridge at the Sabine River. Paving is also scheduled to begin on LA 5.
US 96: Crews will continue to mill and plane existing surface and overlay from 1.4 miles north of SH 87 to SH 87 in Center.
SH 7: Crews will install driveway culverts, cross drainage structures and safety treat fixed objects from 4.4 miles east of FM 2913 to US 96.
SH 7: Maintenance crews will work in the westbound lane to repair pavement edges.
FM 415: Construction continues to replace the bridge and approaches at Bear Bayou.
FM 699: Maintenance crews will repair pavement edges.
CR 4256: Crews will set concrete bridge decks at the tributary of Flat Fork Creek.
Box culverts are being constructed on CR 3564 Hilliard Creek and work continues on bridge replacements throughout the project at Spinney Creek and Shoal Creek on CR 4455.
Various locations: Maintenance crews will patch potholes, install and repair signs, remove debris from the roadways and repair mailboxes.
High today warmer than yesterday 54/45. T-storms and rain should end by 1 pm today. It's possible we will see 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch of rain today.
Tomorrow cloudy 62/47
Wednesday we can expect more rain, 65/39
Thursday 45/27 with strong winds of 15-20 mph, wind chill, hard freeze
Friday will be sunny but the North winds will continue to present wind chills in the low 20's 47/29
Sat/Sun the winds shift to South and the Gulf air will warm us into the upper 60's and lows in the mid 50s....but 60% chance for more rain. Tom JohnsonKTXSANAU6a
Posted
2016-12-03 13:30:00 by Shelby County Chamber of Commerce
In spite of the optimism of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce parade committee, Santa’s 2016 Christmas parade has been canceled for Saturday, December 3 with an alternate plan.
In respect of all endeavors a virtual parade will be developed for the Chamber and public websites. Registered parade participants may submit a video of their parade entry to be included in the collage by calling or emailing the Chamber office by 3:00 p.m. Monday, December 5 of desire to be included.
Registration is also open to display parade floats from Monday evening thru Wednesday night at the Civic Center to form a drive-by exhibit which would also be aired on Channel 2. Judging will be completed on all entries whether virtual or displayed.
For further information please contact the Chamber office at 936.598.3682 or info@shelbycountychamber.com.
Tenaha fell to the Bremond Tigers by a score of 31 to 7. The Logansport Tigers defeated the Kentwood Kangaroos Friday night by a score of 18 to 7. The Logansport Tigers will play the Haynesville Golden Tornadoes for the class 1A State Championship on Friday, December 9 @ 4:30p at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome,in New Orleans, La.
Shelby County Sheriff, Willis Blackwell is warning local residents to protect themselves and their property against crime this holiday season. According to Sheriff Backwell, burglaries increase dramatically this time of year.
Sheriff Blackwell offered a few tips to protect your property.
1. Make sure gifts aren't visible from outside.
2. Wath what you post on social media
3. Be careful about disposing of packaging
4. Don't run external lights through a window
5. Make sure your home is well lit.
6. Put your lights on a timer.
7. Make use of motion sensors
8. Be wary of door-to-door donation seekers
9. Secure your home
Sheriff Blackwell said to take proper steps to ensure that your home is secure from all possible threats. By taking these steps, you can effectively reduce the chances of becoming a victim to a burglary.
All District Volleyball Selections - The Lady Bear Coaching Staff is extremely proud of the athletic/academic recognition the Lady Bears received from district coaches.
2016 20AA All District Volleyball Selections
MVP – Keylee Adair – Carlisle Sr.
New Comer of the Year – Kamryn Courtney – Timpson Fr.
Most Valuable Offense – Leann Youngblood – Gary Jr.
Most Valuable Defense – Molly Sanford – Timpson Sr.
Most Valuable Setter – Cheyenne Vannier – Carlisle Sr.
Coach of the Year – James Foster - Timpson
1st Team All-District -
1) Kyndal Martin - Carlisle Sr. 6) Kasey Scott – Leverett’s Chapel Sr.
2) Hayley Jordan - Carlisle Sr. 7) Alyssa Howard – Leverett’s Chapel Sr.
3) Callie Gray - Carlisle Jr. 8) Jasmine Rodgers – Timpson Jr.
4) Kristina Bell – Gary Sr. 9) Maci Carpenter – Overton Jr.
5) Taylor Rodgers – Gary Jr. 10) Lajada Nash - San Augustine Jr.
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