NACOGDOCHES, Texas — The Wildlife Society, an international professional organization of leaders in wildlife science, named the Stephen F. Austin State University student chapter as its national 2020 Student Chapter of the Year.

The annual award recognizes exceptional achievements by student chapters in the promotion of professional standards, outreach and education, as well as advocacy for conservation policy decisions.

“To be recognized across the nation is a huge compliment to our officers and students,” said Jake Hill, forest wildlife management major and president of the SFA student chapter of The Wildlife Society. “It’s a testament to the quality of our college, our forest wildlife program and the university itself.”

Earlier this year the chapter received statewide recognition when it was named Student Chapter of the Year by the Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Hill said during the past year the student chapter focused on developing its student membership as active wildlife professionals.

One of the chapter’s most public initiatives was the development of a policy program to advocate for the bipartisan Recovering America’s Wildlife Act, which would make supplemental funds available to states for the management of wildlife most in need of conservation. These efforts included writing letters and conducting education campaigns, communicating with state representatives and partnering with other conservation organizations to advance the bill.

In addition, the chapter amplified partnerships with other conservation organizations, such as the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the National Wild Turkey Federation and other smaller nongovernmental organizations.

This spring, the chapter completed a wetland restoration project with Conservation Equity Partners, a local SFA alumni-owned environmental consulting firm. Through this partnership, the chapter planted more than 5,000 trees and gave away approximately 10,000 trees to the public.

“The students involved with the SFA student chapter of The Wildlife Society are outstanding ambassadors for SFA and are well known for their willingness to serve the profession and the community,” said Dr. Hans Williams, dean of SFA’s Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture.

The SFA chapter also donated a portion of its annual fundraising proceeds to assist a newly formed student chapter of The Wildlife Society at another Texas university.

“This award recognizes the hard work of the highly motivated and professional students we have in our program,” said Dr. Daniel Scognamillo, associate professor of forest wildlife management and faculty advisor for the SFA student chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Winning chapters receive a plaque, as well as a $1,000 travel grant to attend the annual Wildlife Society Conference. The name of the chapter also will be added to a permanent plaque on display at The Wildlife Society’s headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland. The SFA student chapter will be recognized at the national conference held virtually in September. 

To learn more about the SFA student chapter of The Wildlife Society, its mission and current initiatives, email sfasuthewildlifesociety@gmail.com.

DSHS reported 2 new COVID-19 cases. 

274 Cumulative cases

-146 Recovered

-10 Deaths

=118 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 274 cumulative cases, 18 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery. These will continue to stay on the active case list until DSHS notifies us otherwise.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIPCODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…200                                                    1-20....20    

75974…27                                                    21-40....90

75975…19                                                    41-60.…85         4

75973…17                                                    61-80.…47         4

75954…11                                                     81-10...27        2

                                                                    Unknown...       5

ACTIVE CASES BY ZIPCODE:

75935...89

75974...10

75975...8

75973...7

75954...4

The Jasper’s Independence Day Celebration will be held, Saturday, July 4th at Sandy Creek Park on Marvin Hancock Drive in Jasper, Texas starting at 5:00 p.m.

The event will have lots of festival foods so come hungry: Mobil Food Concessions –fresh squeezed lemonade, Anthony Perkins Bar-B-Q, Ruddy’s Pork-a-Bobs, Here’s the Scoop Dippin’ Dots Ice-cream, Southern Comfort- hamburgers, sausage on a stick, etc., and more, Bear Country Concessions – funnel cakes, gator and boudain balls, Vasquez honey, and more! 

The festival will provide a “free” waterslide for the kids, so bring their swim suits are something to get wet in sponsored by Wall to Wall in Newton and manned by the Jasper Fire Department and Advantage Home Care, face painting by Racheal Marshall and volunteers from Advantage Home Care, and Miss Linda Gish with her balloon art. Roy James with “Heroes and Patriots” will be on location selling military memorabilia and lighted toys.

Still Crusin’ Band from Beaumont will perform at 6:00 p.m. with blues, hits, zydeco, and pop music. Renae’ Kelley, Jasper County Treasurer, again will sponsor the Watermelon Eating contest starting at 7:00 p.m. and will provide trophies to the winners and the infamous KJAS Hula Hoop Contest at 7:30 ages 4 to 12 year, and a special contest for 13 and up. The winners will receive 1st and 2nd place trophies and participation ribbons.

Special guest, DeWayne Freese from Hillcrest Baptist Church will lead the crowd in prayer at 9:25 p.m. Sound Tech Productions from Dallas will provide audio, and Craig George, Pyro-man from Campti, La. will shoot the spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Marvin Hancock Drive will be closed at 3:00 p.m. for traffic until after the fireworks show for food vendors and pedestrians coming the event. The new park The City of Jasper’s handicap cart will run from 5:00 p.m. from the entrance on Houston Street down to the park entrance for people that want to ride. The new park expansion will not be available to the public because of it not being completed. 

Please watch out for our children, stay hydrated, and bring a lawn chair and plenty of sunscreen.  
 

To:     SHS Incoming Seniors, Juniors, and Sophomores

Due to the Covid-19 situation, SHS student registration for the 2020 - 2021 school year will be set by appointments. Students will not all participate at the same time. Staggered appointments have been scheduled for July 6th – 8th, 2020, where each student will come into the HS library to select their courses and receive information for the upcoming school year. Students should check their SHS email to find their date and time or call the high school office. Each student may have their parent(s)/guardian with them. Each student needs to arrive promptly for their appointment and leave promptly due to time restrictions. After July 8th, students who didn’t make their scheduled appointments may call Mr. Osby or Mrs. Bays to select their classes by phone Monday through Thursday between 8 AM - 1:30 PM. or a schedule will be made for them.

If you have any questions please call the office at (936) 598 - 7323 Monday through Thursday between 8 AM - 1:30 PM. If you would like to email us, our email addresses are marioo@shelbyville.k12.tx.us or pbays@shelbyville.k12.tx.us. 
 

NACOGDOCHES, Texas –  The Stephen F. Austin State University School of Theatre will present William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” live online for three consecutive nights starting June 30 and in a recorded version the following three days, July 3 through 5.

Selected for the School of Theatre’s virtual SummerStage Festival, “The Tempest” is a story of isolation and loss, but it is also about the power of life to continue and of humanity to recover. The script blends tragedy, comedy, songs and magic.

Nightly live performances are at 7:30. To purchase online access, visit boxoffice.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 for online purchasing questions.

The CISD Athletic Department is ending all strength and conditioning activities until July 13th as a precautionary measure.  Athletic facilities will be closed.  We will resume activities as scheduled the week of July 13th.
 

Nacogdoches Community Stakeholders Conference Call
The call is postponed for Tuesday, June 30. A notice will be distributed at a later date for the July 7th conference call.

Independence Day holiday
Please note that the Nacogdoches County Chamber office will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. The office will reopen at 8:30 a.m., Monday, July 6.
Wishing all a safe and happy Fourth of July celebration!

2020-2021 School Start Survey

Please complete this voluntary survey in regards to consideration CISD should take into account for the start of the 20-21 school year.  

Your participation in this survey is voluntary. Your responses are anonymous and there is no way to connect your responses to your name. The survey will be open until midnight on Sunday, July 5th. 

If you do not have internet access to complete the survey a paper survey may be obtained at CISD central office through Thursday, July 2nd @ 5 pm.

To take the survey, click here: https://forms.gle/XjCtBdGHWX27Ckwz9

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – With so many youth camps being canceled this summer, the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music has a camp that offers online piano instruction that can be enjoyed from the safety of one’s own home.

Registration for the Piano in the Pines virtual camp has been extended to Friday, July 3, for the week-long camp, July 20 through 24, for junior high and high school pianists. Camp director Mario Ajero, professor of piano pedagogy at SFA, used the success of the SFA Music Preparatory Division’s virtual spring recitals for inspiration to take the traditional piano camp online.

“When COVID-19 prevented our Music Prep students from having their traditional end-of-the-semester recitals in our recital halls, I came up with the idea of putting together a virtual recital where we would collect pre-recorded performance videos from the students’ homes,” Ajero said. “We would then broadcast those videos on a Facebook Live event so that family members and friends even outside of East Texas could celebrate the students’ accomplishments. The success of these SFA Music Prep virtual recitals inspired me to shift the Piano in the Pines Camp to an online format that would include private lessons and classes with SFA piano faculty and culminate in a virtual recital.”

To present the camp online, ensuring faculty had the necessary computers, mobile devices, cameras and microphones to deliver positive music-learning experiences in an online format was paramount.

“Fortunately, internet speed is very reliable and fast on campus, and I feel confident that we won’t have to worry about losing connections on our end,” he said. “The biggest challenge is to make sure that the students who register have the technology and internet speeds to reliably connect with us.”

Access to a computer or mobile device with a decent microphone and camera is a requirement for students. Video conferencing programs like Zoom have given musicians the ability to adjust the audio settings to remove various filters and compression that optimize the online calls for speech. With these new settings, musical performances can be broadcast remotely over the Zoom calls in a way that is faithful to the original sound, Ajero said.

Students will receive daily private online lessons with faculty, participate in virtual duets and ensembles with other student pianists, attend online classes covering a variety of relevant topics for young pianists, and perform in the SFA Piano in the Pines Virtual Recital at the end of the week.

“The good news is that many students and their families had to adapt to online instruction during the spring,” he said. “So we feel families are more prepared for this than they ever were. We also intend on sharing some information and short tutorial videos on how to achieve the best home environment for the online music instruction that they will partake in.”

Long before COVID-19 halted in-person instruction for public schools and universities, Ajero had invested a number of years of research in remote piano teaching to the point “we’re confident that we can still offer positive music-making experiences online,” he said.

Ajero recently gave a presentation for The Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University entitled “Technology to Teach Keyboard Remotely.” He said he was surprised that close to 500 teachers and administrators from across the country registered for the webinar.

“I wish these circumstances did not force us to teach and learn in this fashion,” he said, “but it is comforting to know that we can with technology that is readily available to most people.”

Although most students prefer a traditional face-to-face camp experience that immerses them in the university environment, the response to the online camp has been good, Ajero said.

“As someone who values music education as such an integral part of a young person’s development, I feel that online piano instruction is absolutely better than no music-making experiences at all,” he said. “We aim the camp at junior high and high school piano students usually at the intermediate and advanced levels. If there are any beginner piano students interested in online lessons, they should contact the SFA Music Prep program for their summer offerings.”

Register for Piano in the Pines camp through July 3 at sfasu.edu/pianocamp. Ajero can be reached at  ajeromp@sfasu.edu.

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 1th day of July, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. in the Courtroom of the Shelby County Courthouse at 200 San Augustine Street, Center, Shelby County, Texas to deliberate and consider action on the following items:

1.     Approve and pay weekly expenses.

2.    Public comments on Agenda item.

3.    Discuss and possibly approve switching from DISA to DATCS for drug testing.

4.    Discuss and take action to revise the Shelby County Personnel Policy in regards to vacation accrual balances according to years of service.

5.    Presentation and discussion of the Shelby County Tax Appraisal District 2021 Proposed Budget. 

6.    Adjourn.

Elementary School Supply List – Click Here:

Retirees at Timpson ISD - Three employees retired from Timpson ISD this year.  See attached photos.

Cindy Bush – Cindy began working at the district in 1995.  She says that leaving is bittersweet because of the great relationships she experienced through working at the district.  However, she says she will miss especially her “precious babies” that she had the pleasure of teaching and nurturing through the years.  She says “they will forever be in my heart.”

Janie Rains – Janie began working at Timpson ISD in 1997.  She says that she treasures her time spent as High School Secretary and Business Manager at TISD.  She says the first time she walked down the High School hall it felt like home and she felt a sense of belonging.  She said she will always look back at her time at the district with many fond memories. 

Bubba Carrington – Bubba began working at the district in 1989.  He has not only served as a classroom teacher, worked with students in UIL activities and drove many a mile as a bus driver.  Upon retirement he had the position of Elementary Principal.  He mentored and helped many students through the years and would always strive to encourage students to reach their full potential in life.  

Commissioner Pct 3 Charles Barr is closing CR 3668 at 9:00 am on Wednesday, July 1, for culvert repair which should take 2 to 3 hours.

DSHS reported 8 new COVID-19 cases over the weekend. DSHS also, unfortunately, reported 2 more deaths attributed to COVID-19 in Shelby County.

272 Cumulative cases

-146 Recovered

-10 Deaths

=116 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 272 cumulative cases,  18 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery. These will continue to stay on the active case list until DSHS notifies us otherwise.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…200                                                    1-20....20   

75974…26                                                    21-40....88

75975…19                                                    41-60.…85         4

75973…17                                                    61-80.…47         4

75954…10                                                    81-10...27         2

                                                                    Unknown...       5

ACTIVE CASES BY ZIPCODE:

75935...89

75974...9

75975...8

75973...7

75954...3

Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center will be set up at the Center Police Dept on Friday, June 26th. 11:30 am - 4:00 pm. Blood supply is at an All time low, and donations are seriously needed at this time! Contact Amy at the CPD, or go to www.giveblood.org to preregister. There will be 2 donor coaches available, but Due to COVID-19, only 1 donor on the coach at time. Mask are requested, but will be available if you do not have one. All stations will be cleaned and sanitized between donors. Average time of 15 min per donor.

All persons who attempt to donate will get a Free T-Shirt!

Please come help save lives!! 1 donor can save 3 Lives!

DSHS has reported 3 new COVID-19 cases.

264 Cumulative cases

-146 Recovered

-8 Deaths

=110 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 264 cumulative cases,  18 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery. These will continue to stay on the active case list until DSHS notifies us otherwise.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…192                                                    1-20....20   

75974…26                                                    21-40....83

75975…19                                                    41-60.…84         4

75973…17                                                    61-80.…46         3

75954…10                                                    81-10...26         1

                                                                   Unknown...5

ACTIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE:

75935...83

75974...9

75975...8

75973...7

75954...3

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the State of Texas will pause any further phases to open Texas as the state responds to the recent increase in positive COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Businesses that are permitted to open under the previous phases can continue to operate at the designated occupancy levels and under the minimum standard health protocols provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

“As we experience an increase in both positive COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, we are focused on strategies that slow the spread of this virus while also allowing Texans to continue earning a paycheck to support their families,” said Governor Abbott. “The last thing we want to do as a state is go backwards and close down businesses. This temporary pause will help our state corral the spread until we can safely enter the next phase of opening our state for business. I ask all Texans to do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask, washing their hands regularly, and socially distancing from others. The more that we all follow these guidelines, the safer our state will be and the more we can open up Texas for business.”

Approvals include funds for airport improvements

June 25, 2020

LUFKIN – Texas Transportation Commissioners on Thursday met in Austin and approved more than $601.5 million in new construction and highway improvement projects statewide, including more than $5.7 million for the Lufkin District.

Four new construction projects were approved in Houston, Nacogdoches, Sabine and San Jacinto counties and include:

SL 304 in Houston County: A $2.4 million project that is designed to rehabilitate and reconstruct the roadway just west of SH 19 to just east of SH 21/SH 7.

US 59 in Nacogdoches County: A $1.1 million project designed for intersection improvements with right and left turn lanes located 1.2 miles south of Spradley Street to CR 524.

FM 1 in Sabine County: A $764,437.24 project designed to replace guardrail from the San Augustine County line to SH 184 and on SH 7 from just east of FM 227 to the Angelina County line in Houston County.

SH 150 in San Jacinto County: A $1.5 million project designed to replace guardrail from east of SH 156 to US 59, on FM 945 from SH 150 to FM 2025 in San Jacinto County and SH 146 from US 190 to the Liberty County Line in Polk County.
 

Also approved was more than $50.5 million statewide for routine maintenance contracts and includes $4.2 million for the Lufkin District designated for roadway materials for routine maintenance throughout the nine-county district.

Commissioners also approved $27.3 million for airport improvements statewide and included $262,500 designated for the Angelina County Airport in Lufkin and Houston County Airport in Crockett. The improvements are funded through the Aviation Facilities Grant Program and include:

Angelina County: $150,000 for engineering and design improvements.
Houston County: $112,500 for the installation of an automated weather observing system.
 

Commissioners also approved $1.5 million designated for the construction and rehabilitation of buildings and included $284,283.20 for the Lufkin District designated for the replacement of emergency generators in the Nacogdoches Area Engineers/Maintenance offices.

Around 1965 a new store opened in the Meyerland area of Houston, Texas near where we lived.  It was a new kind of store, a forerunner of K-Mart or Wal-Mart.  It was a “Sage” store, massive in its size, and contained most anything any shopper would need.  The only thing different was that you had to “join” the club in order to shop there.  I recall the price was somewhere around $15.00 per year for the privilege to shop, and you had to show your ID card in order to enter.

One summer day I took my wife and two kids, around 6 and 4 years of age, to Sage for a good look at this new store.  Being reared in a small East Texas town, all this was new to me-- all your needs under one huge roof, from groceries to garden tools.  The kids wanted to stop in the Pet section to ogle the puppies and kittens.

While we were examining all the exotic animals for sale I spied a lone gerbil in a cage.  I had never seen one before although I had heard of people who owned one.  I had read in the paper that they made good pets.  The little bugger looked cute and docile as I looked him over.  The kids need to see this little critter I though to myself.

I called out, “Kay and Doug…you need to come look at this one.”   I stuck my right index finger over the open top of the cage as I spoke, pointing in the direction of the gerbil.  In a flash this wild animal jumped up and bit down on my finger so hard it started to bleed rather profusely.  Everyone thought the attack was funny, including the critter.  But I had to wrap my hanky around my finger to stop the bleeding.  Now it was getting serious.  Suppose he had rabies, or some other disease.

Running up to the clerk in the pet department I showed him my injury caused by one of his cute little creatures.  He seemed to be thinking something like “you idiot, you don’t put your finger where a Gerbil can get to it”.  “Are these animals vaccinated against every disease before you put them for sale?”, I inquired.  “Yes sir, you don’t have to be worried.”  Easy for him to say, he was not the one bleeding.  “Well, then, is Sage prepared to pay for any medical expenses?”, I queried.  “You will have to discuss that with our manager, and he is not here right now.” so I was informed.  How convenient for him. 

Our shopping trip was now over, so there was nothing else to do but to go home and treat my injury.  “It’s a good thing that Clara is a nurse”, I thought to myself as we drove back to Evergreen Street in Bellaire.  A little cleaning with alcohol, anti-biotic ointment, and a band-aid were administered and my wound felt better.

“Daddy, can we get a Gerbil as a pet?”, asked my son.  “Are you nuts, Doug? Those things are agile, mobile, and hostile.  They are attack animals as you can tell”, I replied while holding up my bandaged finger to show him. “Why don’t we get you some goldfish?  I have never heard of one of them attacking anyone.  Just make sure there is not a piranha in the bunch.”

It has been over fifty years since the little critter attacked me and I still have a small scar on my finger to prove it. So, if you are ever in the market for a small pet I would recommend a rabbit, and leave the gerbils alone. They are vicious animals.

“ATTACK  OF  THE  GERBIL”

BY:  NEAL  MURPHY
P.O. BOX 511
SAN AUGUSTINE, TX 75972
936-275-9033
Cell: 936-275-6986
Email: humptydumpty1940@gmail.com

582 words
 

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Sounds of chirping frogs filled the air, but it wasn’t coming from the pond students in Stephen F. Austin State University’s STEM Academy sat near. Sarah Riley and Kennedy Tinajero listened intently on a laptop to breeding frog calls they recorded, counting the number of frogs and seeking to identify the different types of calls for a project examining the factors that influence frog behavior.

Entering their senior year at Lufkin High School, Tinajero and Riley have been a part of SFA’s STEM Academy since their freshman year, exploring science, technology, engineering and mathematics. While most of their learning has taken place in a classroom setting in the past, they now have the opportunity to conduct research in the field with the help of SFA faculty members.

“Every year we get to learn something new and discover what we’re most passionate about,” Riley said. “This year we got to go off on our own, do research, and meet with professors and learn what they do, so this has been a really special experience for us.”

Riley and Tinajero are using a Song Meter borrowed from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Southern Research Station to collect data from a pond inside the Lufkin city limits, as well as utilizing data collected by the Forest Service from a pond in a local national forest. The Song Meter records sounds for a minute every hour from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., giving the students six minutes of data per site to analyze.

“We’re trying to see what factors play into the calls, learn about the different types of calls and see how many frogs there are,” Tinajero said. “It’s really interesting, and I’m happy that we’re doing it.”

Because there is an increase in breeding frog call activity during the summer months, the students will be able to record several species of frogs to determine species richness, said Dr. Erin Childress, lecturer in SFA’s Department of Biology. Childress assisted the students with initially sorting through the data, pointing out the different frog calls.

“My vision as a mentor is for these students to think about the entire scope of a research project from beginning to end,” Childress said. “This includes thinking about broad questions they have about nature, narrowing down what specific questions they are curious about, and considering what methods are most appropriate for analyzing the data, what knowledge is gained from the results of the data, how this information adds to the broader scope of knowledge, and what limitations they faced in this study that could have influenced the conclusions they make.”

Students in SFA’s STEM Academy begin high school with a cohort of students and progress through elective courses with them. The students are encouraged and expected to enroll in dual credit and advanced mathematics and science courses, said Dr. Jana Redfield, assistant director of the STEM Research and Learning Center.

“The students in the cohort work in SFA laboratories on college-level experiments guided by university faculty members and lab assistants,” Redfield said. “They sharpen their cooperative learning skills during these laboratory sessions. They are also challenged to think and problem-solve and are given the opportunity to conduct independent research.”

To learn more about STEM Academy and the STEM Research and Learning Center, visit sfasu.edu/STEM.

DSHS reported 3 new confirmed cases. 5 recoveries have been reported.

There have been 31 new cases reported in the last 10 day period. This spike is due, in part to DSHS reporting that 11 of these cases were from Tyson.  DSHS also has reported 9 new cases at Focused Care during this same 10 day time period. The outbreak at Focused Care has a total of 21 confirmed cases but 6 of those have been reported as recovered. Leaving 15 active cases at the facility. DSHS has not reported any hospitalizations to us from the outbreak at Focused Care.

261 Cumulative cases

-146 Recovered

-8 Deaths

=107ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 261cumulative cases,  18 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery. These will continue to stay on the active case list until DSHS notifies us otherwise.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…189                                                    1-20....18    

75974…26                                                    21-40....83

75975…19                                                    41-60…84           4

75973…17                                                     61-80…46          3

75954…10                                                     81-100...25        1

                                                                    Unknown...5

ACTIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE:

75935...80

75974...9

75975...8

75973...7

75954...3

LUFKIN – A progress/partnering meeting was held in Nacogdoches on Tuesday regarding the Nacogdoches Direct Connector construction project. Those attending included TxDOT engineers, Longview Bridge and Road officials, utility companies, sub-contractor representatives and other stakeholders.

The $86.1 million construction project is progressing well as weather permits and engineers listed several things that have been done in recent days and discussed plans for coming weeks.

Recently completed work includes:

Concrete placement of Southbound Bridge Deck Span number 5,6 and 7.
Continue with Phase 1 earthwork.
Continuing relocation of city utilities on the south end of the project.
 

Environmental issues currently being addressed include:

As slopes progress to grade, topsoil and seed are being placed.
Address any disturbed waterline placements.

Continue general housekeeping such as removing trash/debris stockpiles from project limits.
 

This project includes construction of new US 59 main lanes that will directly connect to SL 224 just south of SH 7. The project also includes the construction of overpasses at Spradley Street, existing US 59 and Old Lufkin Road, and the construction of frontage roads for SL 224 between SH 7 and BU 59. The project is designed to meet interstate standards. Limits for the project are from SH 7 west on SL 224 to 1.2 miles south of Spradley Street on US 59. Longview Bridge and Road, Longview, is serving as contractor for the project.

At this time traffic is not disrupted on US 59 or SL 224. Motorists are urged to stay alert for trucks and workers entering and exiting near the work zones, obey all traffic control and reduce speed in the area.

DSHS reported 1 new confirmed case and 24 more recoveries.  18 of those recoveries were previously on the “lost to follow list” but have been reported as recovered now by DSHS.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

258 Cumulative cases

-141 recovered

-8 deaths

=109 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 258 cumulative cases,  16 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIPCODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…187                                                  1-20…..17    

75974…25                                                     21-40....82

75975…19                                                     41-60…84         4

75973…17                                                     61-80…46         3

75954…10                                                     81-100...24      1

                                                                    Unknown...5

While practicing social distancing, the Piney Woods Photographic Society did not hold their regular monthly meeting this past Saturday.  But, while learning from articles and videos posted on their facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/groups/PineyWoodsPhoto/?ref=bookmarks the members did hold a virtual Challenge, "Around Tuit", featuring photos on round or circular objects.  The top favorites are shown below, but all the photographs submitted by members may be viewed on the PWPS Flickr Page, https://www.flickr.com/groups/pineywoodsphotographic/.  

Hopefully, there will be a July meeting, which will be on the 3rd Saturday in July at the First United Methodist Church, 211 Porter St., Center, TX. from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.. for more information on meetings or membership,contact Billie F. Jones, 936-591-2426 or email billiejones602@gmail.com.          

The PWPS is for camera enthusiasts of all skills and interests.  Our goal is to help you become a better photographer and give you a place to meet others who share your passion for photography. Featuring programs and activities with information and instruction for all skill levels in an environment of support and cooperation.  Visitors are welcome to attend our meetings with or without a member. 

The Sabine County Beekeepers will meet for our monthly meeting on Monday, July 6th at 6:30PM. We meet every 1st Monday of the month at 6:30PM at the Sabine County Chamber of Commerce, on the square, downtown Hemphill.

We welcome the public to come out and join us. We have no dues, or officers. This is for anyone interested in becoming a new beekeeper or an already experienced beekeeper. For more info, call James at (409)625-4787.  

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Like all universities and public and private school systems across the globe, Stephen F. Austin State University found itself in mid-March suddenly shifting from delivering all in-person classroom instruction to online.

Some courses adapt to remote instruction easier than others. Scott Shattuck, associate dean of the SFA College of Fine Arts, was especially curious to learn how faculty members in the schools of art, music and theatre would teach performance skills and studio art technique courses through remote delivery.

“I heard a couple of especially interesting accounts from students and colleagues who had unexpectedly found themselves in this experimental mode,” Shattuck said, “and it made me think: ‘I’ll bet others would be just as fascinated as I am to learn about the creativity our faculty employed to meet these challenges.”’

Shattuck, along with media specialist Michael Tubbs, initiated a series of videos, “The Creative Challenge,” that features fine arts instructors who have developed some unique virtual teaching strategies to try and ensure that students continue to learn and pursue their work as artists. These can be viewed at finearts.sfasu.edu/creative.

In addition to making these creative teaching ideas available for other educators to incorporate in their virtual classrooms, Shattuck hopes the podcast shows students, prospective students and their families “just how brilliant our College of Fine Arts teachers really are,” he said.

“And, if members of our alumni who are now teaching art, music or theatre, or other faculty members around the country, can take advantage of some of the wonderful ideas described in the podcast interviews, that’s an additional benefit to emerging artists everywhere,” he added. “I hope these interviews make it vividly clear that there’s no stopping creativity. Teaching, learning, and creating art were practically uninterrupted when the pandemic turned our world upside down.”

On social media platforms, the College of Fine Arts has been using the hashtag #ArtsKeepUsGoing, “because everyone has been sustained over the past few months by the songs, movies, books and other creative expressions that keep us connected in such important ways even when we’re physically distanced from one another,” Shattuck said. “We’ve also asserted that #ArtsWillLeadUsBack, because it’s creativity that will fuel the research, the economic revival and the community spirit we’ll need to restore the health and vitality of our society.”

As an educator, Shattuck said he is both humbled and inspired by the resourcefulness and resilience that he’s been fortunate to witness in SFA fine arts faculty.

“The only course I was teaching in the spring was already online and, honestly, I don’t know what I’d have done to keep the teaching, learning and creating going if I’d been teaching a face-to-face technique class,” he said. “These colleagues have given me ideas but, more importantly, they’ve given me hope.”

The Shelby County Appraisal District will hold a public hearing on their proposed budget for the 2021 fiscal year.

The public hearing will be held on July 7, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. at the appraisal district office, 724 Shelbyville Street, Center, Texas.

A summary of the appraisal district budget follows:

2020 Proposed Budget    $728,228
    
Increase over current budget    $35,311
                                 
Employees compensated under current budget      7
    
Employees compensated under proposed budget   7

The appraisal district is supported solely by payments from the local taxing units served by the appraisal district.

If approved by the appraisal district board of directors at the public hearing, this proposed budget will take effect automatically unless disapproved by the governing bodies of the county, school districts, cities and towns served by the appraisal district.

A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection in the office of each of those governing bodies.  A copy is also available for public inspection at the appraisal district office.

Shelby county Appraisal District

724 Shelbyville Street
Center, Texas
(936) 598-6171
 

Governor Greg Abbott announced the results of a study completed by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts at the request of the Texas Military Preparedness Commission (TMPC) analyzing the impact on the state’s economy of the various U.S. military installations within Texas. The Comptroller estimates these military installations contributed at least $123.6 billion to the Texas economy in 2019 and supported more than 630,000 jobs in communities across the state.

“Texas is the proud home to 15 military installations and the U.S. Army Futures Command,” said Governor Abbott. “Not only are these military installations critical for the defense of our nation, they support more than 630,000 jobs in communities across this great state and are a key driver of the Texas economy. Now more than ever, these jobs add critical stability for communities focused on economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. That is why I will continue to work with the Texas Legislature and TMPC to ensure that military installations in Texas keep adding unmatched value for our nation.”

“The military installations in Texas are a vital contribution to our strategic national defense and provide a significant economic impact on the entire state economy,” said Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar. “In most cases these bases and the men and women who work there are the lifeblood of their communities – supporting local businesses, buying homes and creating the fabric of their neighborhoods. But the economic impact can be felt by every Texan and supports jobs in a wide variety of industries and sectors of the state economy. I applaud the Governor’s efforts to ensure continued support for these important installations.”

Estimated Contribution of U.S. Military Installations to the Texas Economy, 2019

Estimated Contribution of U.S. Military Installations in Texas, 2019

The Comptroller’s study represents an analysis of the economic impact of the population and employees directly affiliated with the military installations in Texas. This includes active duty, visiting and other military personnel, dependents, civilian employees and contractors directly affiliated with the base.

The TMPC within the Office of the Governor advises the Governor and the Legislature on defense and military issues, and on ways to strengthen the position of Texas military installations in preparation for any future Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC). The commission is composed of 13 members serving six-year staggered terms, typically representing an installation in their community.

DSHS reported 5 new confirmed cases.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

257 Cumulative cases

-123 recovered

-8 deaths

=122 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 257 cumulative cases,  34 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…186                                                  1-20…..17     

75974…25                                                     21-40....82

75975…19                                                     41-60…84          4

75973…17                                                     61-80…46          3

75954…10                                                     81-100...23        1

                                                                     Unknown...        5

In the National Speech & Debate Association’s National Tournament, Center High School’s Mark Perkins and Jack Callen Watlington advanced to the final 60 in the 260-team Duo Interpretation Contest this past weekend. 

“We were so excited,” senior Mark Perkins said.  “This contest is loaded with talent from all over the country, and the entries are not at all divided by school size.  All of us from ‘little ole CHS’ are going head-to-head against actors and speakers from Los Angeles and New York City and Chicago.  To be in the top 60 against that field...we’ll take it!”

The NSDA is a national organization similar to Texas’ University Interscholastic League, or UIL.  The UIL organizes all school competitions in athletics, music, and academics.  Whereas UIL contests include categories that represent almost every academic skill, the NSDA emphasizes speech and debate and drama.

“I’ve worked with UIL prose and poetry and one-act play my whole career,” NSDA sponsor Pamela Franklin said.  Those are good contests, but the NSDA format allows for more creativity and offers talented students a wonderful platform for their abilities to shine.”

The more familiar UIL Academic meets are state-level contests with competitive divisions just like those for baseball and basketball.  For most contests, three competitors advance from the district contest which features 6-8 schools of similar size.  Then at the regional contest, the three top contestants will advance to state in hopes of being state champion.

“NSDA operates at a much larger level than the UIL,” CHS Academic Coordinator Doug Moore explains.  “Our NSDA District is called ‘The Yellow Rose District’ and it includes schools from all over Texas.  We have schools from the Dallas area down to schools on the coast. The District is much larger than a UIL District, about twice the size of a UIL Region, in fact.  NSDA doesn't have different divisions.  Every school from 1A to 6A, private or public all go into the same pot.  Then when you get to the national contest, there are contestants from 111 districts across the country and from some foreign countries.  There are thousands of students in the over-all tournament and the winner will be the national champion.  It is just a whole different scale.”

Originally scheduled for last week in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the COVID-19 pandemic made it necessary to restructure the contest so that the national qualifiers could submit their speech, debate, and dramatic performances via video.  

“I was so proud of their work with the video format,” three-time qualifier Keaton Watlington said.  “I was Mark’s partner for three years and I loved performing live with him and responding to the audience’s laughs.  Mark and my brother had that same experience at district, but the pandemic changed much more for Nationals than just the format.  To protect the actors, they had to film each other in completely different rooms.  They couldn’t react to each other—they couldn’t even see each other.  Instead, they reacted to what they THOUGHT the other would be doing.  The recording turned out to be pretty amazing.”

In the Round-of-60, also called the “Octafinals,” Perkins and Watlington came very close to advancing to the National Quarterfinals, or the Round-of-30.  

“In the Octafinals, our video was judged against five other teams by a panel of three judges,” Jack Callen said.  “Then it was viewed again against another five teams by another three judges.  In order to advance to the Quarters, a team had to be in the top three in both their ‘rooms,’ leaving thirty remaining teams.  When you add up the scores from all six judges, the 30th ranked team had a score of 21.  Our score was 23—so we were just a couple of points away from advancing.  Disappointing, but also pretty exciting.” They ultimately finished ranked 39th.

For their performance, Perkins and Watlington chose to do scenes from a comedy classic: Monty Python’s Quest for the Holy Grail.

“Anyone who loves comedy almost has to be a student of ‘The Holy Grail,’” Perkins said.  “Jack Callen and I had a lot of fun playing all those classic characters and trying to bring something different and distinctive to them.”

“I guess I liked all that too,” Jack Callen said.  “What I liked the most though was the new clothes.  Since we have to perform in dress attire, I got a new sport coat out of the deal.”

Panola College is proud to announce the establishment of the Robby Smith Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship was formed by Robby Smith’s close friends and family.

Robby Smith graduated from Carthage High School with the class of 1966. He earned a BBA from Baylor University in 1970. He worked in the farm and ranching business his entire life and was also employed in the banking industry for several years. Robby was also a member of Still Waters Cowboy Church.

Robby served the community in several different capacities. He served as president of the Carthage ISD school board, was a member of the Carthage Noon Lions Club, Panola County Cattleman’s Association, Panola County Junior Livestock Show, and ringleader of the Beef Bunch. He enjoyed his hunting trips, playing forty-two, and talking cattle with his buddies. His priority was God first and then his family. He adored his wife, Joy, his sons & daughters-in-law, and his precious grandchildren, who lovingly called him Popsy.

The Robby Smith Memorial Scholarship will be awarded annually to a Panola County resident who participated in the Panola County livestock show. The selection of the recipient will be made in the spring each year.

Due to an electrical problem at Plant 1, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has required the N.E.W. Water Supply Corporation  PWS  # 2030034 to notify all customers on FM 711, CR 203, CR 205, CR 223, Harmony and Fountain Town Communities. Customers are to boil their water prior to consumption (eg., 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 the 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 N.E.W. Water Supply Corporation  at 220 W. Columbia Street, San Augustine, Texas, 75972, or call 936-288-0489
 or Charles Sharp at 936-201-5001.

The John Harris Community Fund held at East Texas Communities Foundation (ETCF) in Tyler, Texas will be accepting grant applications now through 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 22, 2020.

“John Reagan Harris was a generous benefactor, giving both his time and his resources to many groups and worthy causes in and around Center,” said Kyle Penney, President of East Texas Communities Foundation.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, requests for general operating expenses (including salary) are welcome.  Funding requests to support new projects and programs or expand existing ones are also eligible. Organizations should submit only one application, either general support or programmatic.

John Reagan Harris was devoted to the Center, Texas community, his church, and education. The John Harris Community Fund was established to support worthy civic, religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational projects which benefit the Center, Texas community. Applicants must be tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or a governmental unit. The grant committee encourages requests not to exceed $10,000. There is no minimum for a request. Recipients will be announced in August. Applications must be submitted electronically at www.etcf.org.

About East Texas Communities Foundation
­­­East Texas Communities Foundation is a nonprofit corporation serving 32 counties in East Texas. The Foundation distributed $12 million in grants in 2019 and currently manages over $110 million in assets distributed over 370 unique charitable funds which support non-profit organizations and student scholarships. The Foundatio­­n, which was formed in 1989, has awarded over $100 million in grants and scholarships since its inception. Philanthropy builds community and changes lives. East Texas Communities Foundation supports philanthropy by offering simple ways for donors to achieve their charitable goals. http://etcf.org/

Shelby County Outreach Ministries is glad to announce that we were not exposed to COVID-19 and feel it is safe to resume operations. Helping Hands will be open on Wednesdays from 10-2 and on Fridays from 10-2 in order to distribute emergency food boxes. We will continue to serve clients through Drive-Thru only. Please stay inside your vehicle with your windows rolled up. Have your ID available to show through the window. Senior Citizens will continue to be served through frozen meals and phone calls. We appreciate your understanding while we strive to take care of those in need in our community. For questions or concerns please call us at 936-598-4990. 

Tri-County Harvest for Homes Produce Drop 

Wednesday, June 24

@ 9 am Old Sombero's Parking Lot (near Ivan Smith) 

please remember not to park in front of any business.

In addition to the “Virtual Graduation” that was held on May 22, 2020, Shelbyville High School’s Class of 2020 will be participating in an outdoor graduation ceremony at Dragon Stadium on Friday, June 26th, at 7 p.m.  Entrance to the stadium for the ceremony will be by ticket only (each graduate will be issued ten tickets for family and guests).  Social distancing and safety protocols will be followed…Dragon Pride!

Parents/Family Members:

? Stadium gates will open at 5:45 pm.
? Seniors are only allowed ten (10) tickets. Everyone over 12 months of age entering the stadium must have a school issued ticket. 
? Please respect all participants and use social distancing when entering and exiting the parking lot and stadium.
? Masks and gloves are not required, but are recommended.
? All family members must arrive together so that they can be seated at the same time, seats cannot be saved. Incomplete groups will not be seated until all have arrived.
? Once inside, SISD staff will assist you in finding a seat.
? If you leave the stadium, there will be no re-entry. 
    Spectators will be seated every other row. 
? When the graduation ceremony begins, please remain in your seats until it ends and seniors have been escorted off the field.
? Due to social distancing guidelines, no one will be allowed to gather on the field when the graduation ceremony has ended.
? Family members will exit once the seniors have left the stadium.
    
Seniors:    
? Please respect all participants and use social distancing when entering and exiting the gym, and stadium.
? Arrive by 6:15 pm, and report to the volleyball gym.
? Make sure you have everything you need for graduation, cap, gown, tie, etc.
? Only seniors will be allowed to enter the building.
? You will receive instructions on how you will be escorted to and from the stadium.
? Your name will be on your seats on the turf field.
? Once you arrive at your seat, you must remain seated unless asked to stand.
? When the graduation ceremony ends you will march out of the stadium and back to the gym to collect any personal items.
? Once you have collected any personal items, you will then exit and return to your car to leave and celebrate with your family.

The Grill Fest sanctioned barbecue cook-off, presented by Farmers State Bank, will take place in a few weeks on Saturday, July 18th  at the Shelby County Expo Center/Rodeo Arena. The Gold Sponsors are Badders Law Firm, Pilgrims Pride and Tyson Foods.  The Entertainment is sponsored by Rapid Payday & Title Loans LLC.

“Over $6,500 will be awarded in prize money to registered cook teams.  Cook teams may register and enter the contest with a $150 registration fee until July 3rd.  After July 3rd the registration fee will be $200.00.  The barbecue cook-off is sanctioned by the Lone Star Barbecue Society. 

Prize money for the top 50% of the cook teams will be awarded in three categories – Pork Spare Ribs, Chicken and Brisket.  Trophies will be awarded for Grand Champion and Reserve Champion. Awards are sponsored by the City of Center.

Set-up, meat inspection and cooking will begin Friday afternoon, July 17th. Cook teams may also take part in the Bean Cook-Off with a $10 entry fee and jackpot prize.

The public is invited to attend and sample tastings of barbecue at cook team stations. Entry is free.

In addition to the Chillin’ and Grillin’, there will be a Washer Pitching Tournament and 42 Tournament, both sponsored by Shelby Savings Bank, and DJ Steve Adams will provide music.  

The public is invited to attend and sample tastings of barbecue at cook team stations as well as participate in the tournaments.  Entry is free.  Social distancing will be encouraged and food samplings will follow new health guidelines.  The health and safety of all guests and cookers is our top priority and we feel confident that will all attendees being considerate of each other we can enjoy a time of fun, fellowship and great barbecue.   

Silver sponsors are Ace Hardware of East Texas, B & S A/C and Heating, Bob’s Pawn Shop, the Light and Champion and Watson and Sons Funeral Home and 4C Electrical Services,                                                                                                                       

Registration forms and additional information is available at www.shelbycountychamber.com or at the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce office – 936-598-3682.  Questions may be emailed to info@shelbycountychamber.com.                

DSHS reported 15 new confirmed cases over the weekend.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

252 Cumulative cases

-123 recovered

-8 deaths

=122 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 252 cumulative cases,  34 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…181                                                   1-20…..17     

75974…25                                                     21-40....82

75975…19                                                     41-60…84          4

75973…17                                                     61-80…45          3

75954…10                                                     81-100...19        1

                                                                   Unknown...5

NACOGDOCHES COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded to a two vehicle crash last Saturday night 6-20-20 on SH 7 at FM 2713. The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 10:15 p.m., a 2002 Ford pickup disregarded the stop sign on FM 2713 and drove into the path of a 2016 Toyota pickup that was eastbound on SH 7.

The driver of the Ford is identified as 19-year-old Datravis Duncan from Tenaha. Duncan was transported to Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital for treatment. A passenger with Duncan is identified as 19-year-old DeSkyhen Crockett from Center. Crockett was pronounced deceased at the scene by a Nacogdoches County Justice of the Peace.

The driver of the Toyota is identified as 26-year-old Timothy Quinn from Nacogdoches. Quinn was also transported to Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital for possible treatment.

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

RRA Graduation is set for Thursday, July 2, at 6:30 p.m. in the CHS Cafetorium.  Graduates will be limited to 7 guests, and social distancing practices will be observed.

More information will be released soon. 

Following the loss of one of our recent graduates, counselors will be available for the student body tomorrow, June 22, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Center High School. 

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 24th day of June, 2020 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 future plans for the JP.3 and Office.

5.    Discuss and possibly approve the request by the Historical Commission to test for mold, lead and asbestos in the courthouse Annex building.

6.    Historical Commission to discuss restoration of the Shelby County Courthouse square Tower Clock.

7.    Discuss and possible take action to end or renew yearly contract with Computer Information Concepts for Tax office.

8.    Discuss and possibly approve door lock replacements for the Shelby County Jail.

9.    Discuss and possibly take action on rental proposal on rugs/cleaning supplies for the JP.1 office.

10.    Discuss and possibly approve a quote from Encore Music Co. on upgrading the audio equipment for the District Courtrooms.

11.    Announce the Census Parade to take place on Thursday, June 25, 2020 at 2:00 P.M.

12.    Adjourn.
 

“At 11:30, the first tornado hit Alto.  As we were making plans to evacuate our site, we saw another storm front approaching.  The tornado that hit us was in that storm.” recalls Anthony Souther, the Site Manager of Caddo Mounds State Historic Site, which is six miles west of Alto on Texas Highway 21. It couldn't have happened at a worse time. On Saturday, April 13, 2019 the State Historic Site was hosting a Caddo Culture Day, which included members of the Caddo Tribe who had traveled from Oklahoma to participate in the program. After minutes of terror and destruction from an EF-3 tornado, tree trunks stood stripped of their branches, vehicles were overturned and scattered about the property, the site lay in ruins, and a number of people were critically injured, including one who later died.

Members and guests of the Timpson Area Genealogical and Heritage Society were held spellbound as Mr. Souther relived the event at their monthly meeting on June 17. A retired twenty-year Air Force veteran, Mr. Souther said “I was trying to get into the museum classroom to warn those inside to take cover but the wind was pushing against the door so hard I was afraid it would slam closed on my arm and break it.  About that time I was spun around and thrown to the floor where I just tried to protect myself from flying debris. I can now say I have heard “the train”!  His wife was sheltered from falling masonry by a folding table. “After the storm passed, my military training kicked in and I went into Air Base Recovery mode. We began attending to the injured and clearing the access road and an area for the Life Flight helicopters to land.”

Although Caddo Mounds is only six miles from Alto, it took three hours for crews to clear that stretch of Highway 21 so ambulances could arrive. Life Flight was prevented from flying in because of poor visibility. When the last tree was removed from the roadway, a convoy of five ambulances pulled into the site. Soon thereafter, the sky cleared enough for Life Flight helicopters to land, with six aircraft eventually arriving for the six persons with critical injuries.  The one fatality died en route to the hospital aboard one of the helicopters. 

On Monday morning, the daunting task of clearing debris and assessing the damage began. The museum was destroyed and many of the artifacts lost. The Caddo grass house, whose construction under the supervision of a Caddo elder three years earlier had been the subject of a documentary film, was gone. All but one of the interpretive signs were gone. Trees were down. Demolished automobiles and debris from buildings littered the property. The wind had even sucked up the fabric weed barrier from beneath the gravel pathways. Still standing however, as they had been for 700 years, were the Caddo Mounds themselves.

“If you're going to have your museum or business destroyed by a tornado, do it while the state legislature is in session”, joked Mr. Souther. “They appropriated money for the facility to be rebuilt and we are in that process now. Architects have put together plans for what the new museum will look like. We re-opened in January with a temporary Visitor's Center but had to close again because of Covid-19. We are open again, though. We allow five or ten people at most to visit at one time and require masks indoors but not outside on the grounds” Souther revealed. “There is no way we would be where we are now if not for the help of our wonderful volunteers, especially the Friends of Caddo Mounds and the East Texas Chapter of Master Naturalists.”

Plans are to make the Caddo Mounds Historical Site even better than it was before the tornado, reveals Mr. Souther.  The new museum will not be a replica of the old one and will feature a number of improvements, including making it wind resistant and “hardening” the office and restroom areas as storm shelters.  Although the funds appropriated by the legislature are sufficient to cover the museum's reconstruction, it is hoped that money can be raised to add an Educational Activities Building, and the Texas Historical Commission has approved fund-raising projects by Caddo Mounds.

The re-construction of the Caddo grass house is a unique situation, however. As mentioned, the house which was destroyed was less than four years old and was built under the supervision of Caddo Elder Phil Cross, using authentic local materials and construction techniques. That must be done again. Arrangements are being made for Mr. Cross as well as other Caddo Tribe members to be on-site to supervise the construction. Basically, pine trees will be bent together to form a hemispherical frame to which will be attached willow lath. This structure will then be covered with native switchgrass. Finding enough switchgrass presented a problem during the construction but it is believed that a sufficient supply has been arranged. 

Caddo Mounds hosts a Summer Teacher Workshop each year and they were able to have it a few weeks ago. “It became sort of healing celebration for us and the community. Many survivors of the tornado, Alto citizens, volunteers, and about twenty members of the Caddo Tribe participated. Survivors marked the place where they were when the storm hit.” A cedar tree was planted as a memorial. Mr. Souther noted that Snake Woman's Interpretive Garden not only survived the tornado but actually flourished afterward.  That is a good metaphor for Caddo Mounds Historical Site as well.

The Timpson Area Genealogical and Heritage Society meets at 2PM on the third Wednesday of each month in the Meeting Room of the Timpson Public Library, located on the corner of Austin and Bremond Streets in Timpson. The public is invited. The TAGHS Genealogy Library is located inside the Timpson Public Library and is staffed by TAGHS volunteers who are available to assist those doing research. The phone number is 936-254-2966.  

Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the Governing body of the above-named City will be held on the 22nd day of June, 2020 at 5:30pm at the City Hall, 238 North George Bowers Drive, Tenaha, Texas at which time the following subjects will be considered, to wit:

1.    Call to Order:
2.    Invocation:
3.    Pledge: United States Pledge
4.    Citizens Input:  This time is provided for members of the public to address the City Council on items that appear within the Consent and Action Items or a matter not listed on the agenda.  Each speaker is limited to 3 minutes.  A Citizens Input Form may be filled out and filed with the City Secretary prior to the meeting. 
5.    Election Items:
a.    Appoint Mayor Pro-Tem to perform mayor’s duties during the mayor’s incapacity or absence. The mayor pro-tem is selected by majority vote of the council from among its own membership.  The mayor pro-tem is for two years.  The mayor pro-tem retains the right to vote on all matters before the council (and not just to break a tie) while performing duties of mayor (Local Government Code Section 22.38 and 23.027)
b.    Appoint Municipal Judge. The Municipal Judge is selected by the Governing Body. The Municipal Judge is for two years.  (Local Government Code Section 29.004 b and 29.005)
6.    Department Head Reports:
a.    Public Works Report
b.    Municipal Court Report
c.    Police Department Report
d.    City Secretary Report
e.    Fire Department Report
7.    Consent Agenda:  Items included under the Consent Agenda require little or no deliberation by the Council.  Approval of the Consent Agenda authorizes the City Secretary to proceed with the conclusion of each item as reflected in the Minutes of this meeting. 
a.    Consider approval of the Minutes from the Regular Meeting held on May 26, 2020
b.    Certificate of Deposit Renewal
c.    1st National Bank of Hughes Springs Loan. 
d.    Scheduled payment for First National Bank Wichita Falls. 
e.    City office Closed Friday July 3, 2020 Independence Day (observed)
f.    Upcoming Employee Vacation Days
g.    Scheduling Next Month’s meeting for Monday July 27, 2020 at 5:30 pm. 
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS (8 – 14)
8.    Discuss and take action:  Discuss and award contract to vendor for the construction and delivery of a pumper truck and brush truck through CDBG FAST Grant 7219256.
9.    Discuss and take action: Consider approval of the Financial Statements for the month of May 2020.
10.    Discuss and take action:  Make amendment to section 7.13 (Timing) in the Employee Handbook to add the following statement: A performance appraisal will be conducted annually at each employee’s anniversary date.
11.    Discuss and take action:  Renew Employee benefit coverage with TML Health for 2020-2021. 
12.    Discuss and take action: Renting the Community Room(s) at the City Hall. 
13.    Discuss and take action:  The General, Wastewater, Water and Street Departments purchasing a backhoe from the Police department.
Executive Session: Section 551.074 Personnel Matters; Section 551.072 Deliberation regarding real property. 
14.    City Secretary Amanda Treat’s Annual Evaluation.  (Employee Handbook 7.13)
15.    Chief of Police 
16.    Discuss the Possible sale of 2018 Tahoe.
Return to Open Meeting
17.    Discuss action: Regarding item 14 and 16.
18.     Council Items: Reports by the members of the City Council on matters not on the agenda will be made at this time.  
19.     Adjourn.

Due to the possible exposure of employees to the COVID-19 virus, we believe it is in the best interest of our staff and clients to shut down operations of Shelby County Outreach Ministries for 14 days to prevent further exposure. We will have all facilities and equipment cleaned and sanitized before opening back up to the public.

Thank you for your patience during this time. But we must keep everyone as safe as possible. So, at this time all programs will be shut down from today, June 19, 2020 to reopen on July 6, 2020.

DSHS reported 3 new confirmed cases and 5 recoveries.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

237 Cumulative cases

-123 recovered

-8 deaths

=106 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 237 cumulative cases,  34 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…171                                                     1-20…..16           

75974…23                                                       21-40....76

75975…18                                                       41-60…79             4

75973…15                                                       61-80…43             3

75954…10                                                       81-100...18           1

                                                                      Unknown...5

SFA is not able to offer campus tours at this time. However, we can schedule a virtual admissions counselor visit and include campus highlights!

Take advantage of our new SFA Virtual Experiences and schedule your tour on the sfasu.edu/visit page.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act took effect on March 27, 2020, and includes the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. The CARES Act authorizes institutions of higher education to serve as trustees in providing eligible students whose lives have been disrupted as a result of COVID-19 with emergency financial aid grants.

SFA has been diligently working to create an awarding process that applies Department of Education guidelines in distributing CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds to our students. Correspondence will be sent directly to each student’s SFA email address with eligibility information and directions regarding applying for funding. SFA will coordinate three phases of awarding CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds, beginning with Spring 2020 enrolled students, followed by Summer 2020 students, and then Fall 2020 students.

We ask that students monitor their SFA email regularly. If you have any questions, contact the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at finaid@sfasu.edu

CARES Act Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the CARES Act Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund?

A. Federal funding that has been entrusted to higher education institutions in order to provide emergency grant funds to eligible students who experienced a financial hardship caused by the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19. View our HEERF Reporting information.

Q. Who is eligible to receive emergency funds?

A. Per the U.S. Department of Education, eligible students are those who filed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or who are eligible to file a FAFSA.

Q. Who is not eligible to receive CARES Act emergency funds?

A. Per the U.S. Department of Education, international, dual credit, non-U.S. citizen students and students enrolled exclusively in online courses prior to March 13, 2020, are not eligible for CARES Act funding.

Q. How does a student apply for these emergency funds?

A. Students must complete an online application to be considered for CARES Act funding. Access to the application is available to eligible students on their mySFA account, under the Important Notifications tab. The U.S. Department of Education guidelines require documentation indicating that a student has experienced a financial hardship caused by the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19. A CARES Act introduction letter is being sent to students' SFA email with information on eligibility and directions on how to apply.

Q. How much will eligible students receive?

A. The amount provided to each student will vary depending on his or her need and funding availability.

Q. How long will it take to receive my funds after the application is completed?

A. Students will receive an email notification once the application is received and another once funds have been released. It could take up to five business days after funds are released to receive the funds.

As the spring semester comes to a unique end at Panola College, the College is already making plans to carefully resume face-to-face instruction on August 19.

“The health and safety of Panola College students, faculty, and staff is always our first priority,” said Dr. Greg Powell, Panola College president. “We want our students to enjoy the full college experience including face-to-face classes, sports, fine art events, and living on-campus. Our re-opening committee is working hard on ways to do this safely.”

Panola College plans to reopen all locations to the public on June 15 following social distancing guidelines. The College will remain working remotely on Fridays throughout the summer to allow for deep cleaning each week. Most courses this summer will be held strictly online with the exception of a few courses that require hands-on experiences, such as cosmetology. Cosmetology services will remain closed to the public throughout the summer and all summer camps have been canceled including Kids College and athletic camps. Financial aid and student advising appointments are still encouraged to take place by phone and email whenever possible.

“Despite our plan to return to normal operations this fall, no one knows how the pandemic will progress through summer and into the fall, but our committee is preparing plans for multiple scenarios,” stated Dr. Powell

“We know that being flexible will be important as the situation continues to evolve. It is our intention to balance a safe and healthy campus while maintaining a great college experience for our students. We miss the energy our students bring to Panola College and look forward to its return this fall.”

The College will be reviewing the spring semester transition to online instruction and how the process could be improved in the future. Instructors will receive additional distance learning training and will be prepared to move online should another outbreak occur this fall.

Additional safety measures listed below will be put in place to help the College reopening:

• Face-to-face classes size will be smaller and more courses will be in a hybrid format this fall.
• Hand sanitizing and disinfectant wipe stations are being placed in high traffic areas throughout all buildings.
• Plexi glass shields are being installed between students and staff at many locations.
• Students, faculty, staff, and visitors to campus are encouraged to wear a face covering per CDC guidelines.
• Campus signage is being placed around campus to promote CDC guidelines, including wearing a face covering, social distancing, washing your hands, and covering your cough.
• A hygiene package will be given to all students, faculty, and staff which will include a face covering, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes at the beginning of the fall semester.
• Faculty and staff will be asked to complete a health screening.
• The entire college will be sanitizing on a nightly basis.
• Protocols are also being put into place should a student or employee test positive for COVID-19.
•  

Safety precautions and protocols will be further developed and refined over the summer as the College closely monitors the situation and will follow the guidance from federal, state, and local health officials. More information may be found at https://www.panola.edu/public-relations/coronavirus.

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the City of Burton, having completed the multi-step training and certification process, has been designated a Film Friendly Texas community by the Texas Film Commission, which helps to grow local jobs and local economies by promoting the Lone Star State as the premier destination for film, television, commercial, animation, visual effects and video game production. 

“I congratulate the City of Burton on earning the Film Friendly Texas designation,” said Governor Abbott. “As our focus is on safely and strategically reopening and revitalizing all aspects of the Lone Star State—work, school, entertainment and culture—Texas is committed to working alongside our communities to ensure they have the knowledge and tools needed. Through the Film Friendly Texas training and certification process, communities large and small are readied to help match local businesses with production-related needs, creating jobs for Texas-based crew members and local residents as well as spurring on-site spending at local small businesses. And I am proud of all that the Texas Film Commission has accomplished in helping communities like Burton begin to open their economy."

The City of Burton joins more than 140 Film Friendly Texas communities that receive ongoing training and guidance from the Texas Film Commission on media industry standards, best practices and how to effectively accommodate on-location filming activity in their community.

The Texas Film Commission in the Office of the Governor’s Economic Development and Tourism Division has attracted $1.5 billion in local spending and created more than 154,000 production jobs across the state from 2007 to 2019.

For more about the Texas Film Commission, visit: www.texasfilmcommission.com

To explore all that Film Friendly Texas communities offer, visit: https://gov.texas.gov/film/page/fftx_overview

NACOGDOCHES, Texas –  “The Tempest” rehearsals started a few weeks ago with Stephen F. Austin State University theatre students doing all the traditional elements of theatrical rehearsal, like script analysis and blocking, while also discovering the opportunities and limitations of creating and presenting a play totally online as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” will be presented live online for three consecutive nights starting June 30 and in a recorded version the following three days, July 3 through 5. Online access can be purchased through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

Selected for the School of Theatre’s SummerStage Festival, “The Tempest” is a story of isolation and loss, but it is also about the power of life to continue and of humanity to recover, according to Slade Billew, assistant professor of theatre and director of the play. The script blends tragedy, comedy, songs and magic.

The play will be “created” entirely over the internet, with rehearsals conducted via Zoom, and designers conceiving and creating work in their own personal spaces. The same theatrical instruction that was taking place in the classroom six month ago is now being delivered virtually.

“There will be all of the elements of a traditional production, just in a different medium,” said Billew. “We have students and faculty working with all of the areas of design. We are figuring things out within our limitations. For example, we can't mail students theatrical lighting instruments, but we are coming up with ways to create unique lighting and sound effects in the spaces of the performers' homes.”

Students will use a range of other tools, including some puppetry and a mix of built and found objects and costumes.

“We are looking for ways that students can be mailed costume or prop pieces,” Billew said, “or be sent files to print and assemble themselves. We want this to be as fully realized a production as possible.”

Billew anticipates encountering a range of technological glitches. “We also lose the creative energy of all being in a room together –  something I know the country as a whole is struggling with right now,” he said. “Also, we are adapting to a whole new form of performance where the modes of creation and communication are different.”

In normal SFA production circumstances, theatre students work with a high level of theatrical design and technological support. While this is great for their education, it’s not what many of them will encounter in their early professional careers, Billew said, adding this new process will help them learn to create the best work they can with limited resources.

“Many early career theatre and film artists are now getting their start on YouTube and other platforms where they generate their own work,” he said. “This project will give our students a leg up in learning how to do that.”

Despite the need for actors to perform in front of live audiences, School of Theatre Director Cleo House Jr. predicts that theatre will be forever changed because of the pandemic, and SFA’s response to what’s happening “really is what theatre has always been about,” he said.

“Theatre remains in a consistent state change … of action and reaction … meaning the world happens around us, and theatre responds,” House said. “It reacts by holding up a mirror. Theatre has to be this way because it is a living yet ephemeral entity. Living things change; they adapt, they move, or they die. Our actions in moving forward with the support of the College of Fine Arts speaks to SFA’s continued value for the impact of what we do in theatre, and our audience support is appreciated and needed.”

Once donations/purchases are made for live performance, the School of Theatre will contact the purchaser by email three hours before the live performances to provide a link for access. Live performances are at 7:30 p.m. June 30, July 1 and July 2. The recorded performance will be available July 3 though 5. Passcodes for July 3 through 5 will be ongoing and released daily at noon. The link dies at midnight each night with a new link for each day. Access for each day should be purchased separately. Access levels range from $5 to $25.

To purchase online access, visit boxoffice.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 for online purchasing questions. For more information about the School of Theatre, visit theatre.sfasu.edu.

Cutline: SFA theatre students rehearse on Zoom for the upcoming virtual presentation of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” The show can be accessed live online for three consecutive nights starting June 30 and in a recorded version the following three days, July 3 through 5. Online access can be purchased through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

It has been said that a dog is man’s best friend.  If that is the case, then it should follow that a dog would be a young boy’s best friend.  I am convinced that the best scenario is when a young boy adopts a puppy and they both grow up together.  They are companions, pals, and playmates. I can testify that this can be the case.

In the early 1940s in deep East Texas, as an eight year old boy, the good Lord presented me with an unplanned puppy.  My father was an avid fox hunter, and he always had several fox hounds in a pen behind our house.  I loved those dogs, but they were in reality my dads, and not mine.  Somehow it is different when the dog is yours, to love, feed, and care for.

I recall that it happened this way:  One day we all heard what sounded like puppies’ cries coming from under our house.  After a couple of days, they had become quite obvious, and my dad crawled under our house to check out the noises.  He found a stray dog, a female that had given birth to two puppies under the house.  She was a stranger to us, but had obviously adopted our house and thus our family to assist her in the rearing of her two offspring.

Being a dog lover, my father allowed the “single” mother to stay with her two very cute, black and white, puppies.  She was very protective for several weeks and would not allow any intruders.  Finally the day came when the puppies ventured out side and I got my first glimpse of them….and what beautiful puppies they were.

Then suddenly tragedy struck.  The mother dog was struck and killed by an automobile on the street in front of our house.  Now, we had two orphaned puppies on our hands.  They were rather small dogs, both marked identically, except one was slick haired, and the other long haired.  Both were black with white markings, and stockings.

I adopted the slick haired puppy and named him “Slick”.  My mother fell for the long haired one and named it “Fuzz”.  We began to feed and love both puppies and they became attached to us and our home.  “Fuzz” stayed with my mother, following her around the house and yard, while “Slick” partnered with me.  He was my friend and my buddy for a very long time.  He greeted me every day when I got home from school.  He romped on my bed with me, and went squirrel hunting and fishing with me.  He loved the water, and against my wishes he would jump into the pond when I would go fishing.  I was sure that he was scaring off the fish by playing around in the water.

Several years passed and then our neighbor up the street got a large Chinese Chow dog.  They kept him in their back yard.  He did not like my little “Slick”.  One day apparently he wandered up the road and had a confrontation with this large Chow.  Of course, “Slick” came out on the losing end of this encounter.  When I returned from school I found him lying in our back yard, with numerous bad bite wounds from the larger dog.

I gingerly picked “Slick” up in my arms and took him down to the crib and placed him on a blanket.  Then I called my dad at his office and I recall stating that “Slick was either unconscious or dead.”  My dad come home immediately and examined my buddy.  He had already gone to that large fire hydrant in the sky.  We buried him in a corner of the dog pen.

Thus ended several years of partnership between man and dog.  Several years later I left home for college.  “Fuzz” seemed to miss his brother for a while, but continued to be my mother’s dog.  Eventually he suffered the same fate as his mother, he was run over by a car on the same highway and killed.  The era of the little black dogs that came our way was ended.

I did not own a dog again until after I was married and had two children.  We got a white poodle “Curley”, who was actually my kids’ dog, and he occupied a place in our family for about fifteen years.  But, like one’s first love, it was not possible to replace the little “Slick” dog in my heart. After all, we grew up together.

“MY  FIRST  DOG”

BY: NEAL MURPHY
107 Hemlock Street
PO Box 511
San Augustine, TX 75972
936-275-9033
cell: 936-275-6986
E Mail: sugarbear@netdot.com

DSHS reported 4 new confirmed cases.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

234 Cumulative cases

-118 recovered

-8 deaths

=108 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 230 cumulative cases,  34 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…170                                                     1-20…..14            

75974…23                                                       21-40....75

75975…17                                                       41-60…79             4

75973…15                                                       61-80…43             3

75954…9                                                         81-100...18          1

                                                                     Unknown...5

Due to Covid-19 restrictions and the rise in the number of cases still looming, the Piney Woods Photographic Society will not be having their regular monthly meeting this Saturday.  There will be a virtual challenge "Around Tuit" on their Flickr page,

https://www.flickr.com/groups/pineywoodsphotographic/ .  The photographs, specifically showing round/circular objects, are submitted by members for voting and critique.  Anyone is invited to view these photographs.  To learn more about the Piney Woods Photographic Society meetings or memberships contact, Billie F. Jones, billiejones602@gmail.com or call or text 936-591-2426.

Hopefully we can resume our regular meetings in July.  Everyone please stay safe and practice social distancing.

The Nacogdoches Police Department and Fire Department responded to a three vehicle major accident Tuesday evening around 6:07 p.m. at the intersection of N. University Dr. and E. Austin Street.

The investigation revealed that a GMC Canyon pickup driven by Zachary Cleveland of Nacogdoches was northbound on N. University and collided with a westbound Volkswagen car driven by Margaret Naranjo, also of Nacogdoches. The collision sent both vehicles northbound, colliding with a Ford Ranger pickup, driven by Lucresha Phillips, also of Nacogdoches. Cleveland and Phillips were uninjured in the accident, however Naranjo suffered serious injuries and was transported to Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital, and then later flown to a Tyler hospital.

The NPD Traffic Unit is continuing to investigate the accident to determine factors and causes of the collision.

The roadway was closed from approximately 6:07 p.m. Tuesday until 2:00 a.m. Wednesday.  As further information becomes available it will be released. 

COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Drought conditions in the western Plains and early drying across the state have led to an increase in wildfire activity and an early start to the summer wildfire season.

Most of the state is trending three to four weeks ahead of typical early summer drying, and the rainfall outlook over the next six weeks is not anticipated to be enough to reverse this trend.

Wildfire analysts with Texas A&M Forest Service report that Texas could experience a severe summer wildfire season.

“The dryness we are currently seeing across portions of the state is, generally, what we would be experiencing in mid- to late July,” said Brad Smith, Texas A&M Forest Service Predictive Services Department Head.

“The drought that will carry over from the spring into the summer and the emerging drought that is developing in June have initiated an early start to the summer fire season. Early summer drying in June also introduces the possibility of experiencing a severe late-summer fire season.”

Under these conditions, state officials are tracking an increased number of wildfire ignitions occurring across Texas. Since Tuesday, June 9, Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments have responded to 90 wildfires that burned a total of 21,692 acres. Many of the recent wildfires are attributed to equipment use, welding, debris burning and roadside starts.

“Texas is experiencing an uptick in wildfire activity across most of the state, and it’s easy to think that a wildfire won’t impact you until you see the smoke on the horizon,” said Kari Hines, Texas A&M Forest Service Firewise Coordinator. “Now is the time to prepare your house and property to make them wildfire resilient. Create an evacuation plan for your family that includes pets and livestock. Look for the buildup of dead and dry vegetative material around your house, the driveway, and other important buildings, as this is where embers can gather and start fires.”

Successfully preparing for a wildfire requires everyone to take personal responsibility for protecting themselves, their families and their properties.

Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to take the following steps around their homes today to reduce the risk of wildfire:

1. Clean out gutters of debris.

2. Mow and water lawns.

3. Move firewood a minimum of 30 feet from homes.

4. Remove anything stored under decks or porches.

5. Make sure home addresses are visible from the road.

If a wildfire is spotted, contact local authorities immediately. A quick response can help save lives and property.

January 1, 2021 (Friday) - New Year’s Day  
January 18, 2021 (Monday) - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
February 15, 2021 (Monday) - Presidents’ Day
April 2 2021 (Friday) - Good Friday
May 31, 2021 (Monday) - Memorial Day
July 5, 2021 (Monday) - Independence Day
September 6, 2021 (Monday) Labor Day
October 11, 2021 (Monday) Columbus Day
November 11, 2021 (Thursday) Veterans Day
November 25, 2021 (Thursday) November 26, 2021 (Friday) Thanksgiving Holidays
December 23, 24, 2021 (Thursday, Friday) Christmas Holidays

Governor Greg Abbott and Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs of the University of Texas (UT) System John Zerwas, MD, provided an update on Texas' hospital capacity. The Governor noted that despite an uptick in positive cases, there continues to be abundant hospital capacity. Governor Abbott also urged all Texans to continue to do their part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and look out for the health of themselves and those around them.

Following the Governor's remarks, Doctor Zerwas presented an in-depth update on hospital capacity in Texas. Doctor Zerwas' presentation can be viewed here.

"As we begin to open up Texas and Texans returns to their jobs, we remain laser-focused on maintaining abundant hospital capacity," said Governor Abbott. "The best way to contain the spread of this virus is by all Texans working together and following simple safety precautions. We all have a responsibility for our own health and for the health of our loved ones, friends, and neighbors.

COVID-19 still exists in Texas, and if we are to contain the spread while getting Texans back to work, all Texans must do their part. That means making safe and smart decisions like wearing a mask, washing your hands, and socially distancing in public. The more Texans protect their own health, the safer our state will be and the more we will be able to open up for business."

The Governor and Doctor Zerwas were joined by Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner John Hellerstedt, MD, and Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. 

DSHS reported no new confirmed cases and 7 recoveries.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

230 Cumulative cases

-118 recovered

-8 deaths

=104 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 230 cumulative cases,  34 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…166                                                     1-20…..14            

75974…23                                                       21-40....74

75975…17                                                       41-60…79             4

75973…15                                                       61-80…41             3

75954…9                                                         81-100...17          1

                                                                      Unknown...5

LUFKIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding motorists during the summer months that the department is continuing its enforcement efforts across Texas focusing specifically on violations of the state’s Move Over/Slow Down law.  These periodic enforcement operations by DPS Troopers are planned throughout the year at various locations in Texas, with several operations planned in June. One of those operations will take place in the Lufkin area throughout the day on Wednesday, June 17. The Department of Transportation will be participating in a non-enforcement capacity.

The law, originally passed in 2003, requires motorists to move over or slow down when certain vehicles – including police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks – are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. As a result of the 86th Legislative Session, highway maintenance or construction vehicles under contract with TxDOT, utility service vehicles, and stationary solid waste or recycling vehicles were added to the list of vehicles that require motorists to move over or slow down.

“Our Highway Patrol Troopers and other officers risk their lives every day for the people of Texas, and their safety is particularly vulnerable while working on the side of the road, where the slightest mistake by a passing motorist can end in tragedy,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw.  “While our officers are serving and protecting Texans, we’re asking drivers to do their part by adhering to the law – simply move over or slow down.”

Specifically, Texas law states that a driver must either:

·         Vacate the lane closest to the applicable vehicles stopped on the side of the road (if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction) or

·         Slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph, the driver must slow down to 5 mph)

Drivers should only move over if they can do so safely and legally; otherwise, they should slow down.

“In light of the numerous vehicle crashes that occur in Texas and across the nation on a daily basis, and the unfortunate fact that many still violate the state law that has been in effect over 16 years, we are increasing our enforcement and education efforts related to this law,” said Director McCraw.  “In addition to complying with the law to protect those who work on the side of the road, we encourage motorists to show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the roadways.  Let’s all get home safely.”

Violations of the law can result in a fine of up to $200; the fine increases to $500 if there is property damage.  If violators cause bodily injury, they can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor, resulting in possible jail time and a maximum fine of $2,000.

Data collected from 2019 shows that DPS Troopers issued more than 27,900 warnings and citations to motorists violating the Move Over/Slow Down law. Through February of this year, Troopers issued more than 4,100 warnings and citations for violations of the law.

From January 2016 through January 2020, Texas DPS Troopers have been in 65 stationary crashes where their vehicle or the Trooper was struck while performing a law enforcement duty on a highway.

ON 06/ 14/2020, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality required the Choice public water system, 2100005 to issue a Boil Water Notice to inform customers, individuals, or employees that due to conditions which occurred recently in the public water system, the water from this public water system was required to be boiled prior to use for drinking water or human consumption purposes.   

The 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 06/17/2020.  

 
If you have questions concerning this matter, you may contact Vince Di Verdi at 936-591-1205  
 

Claiborne Parish – On June 14, 2020, shortly after 1:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a one-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 520 north of Homer. This crash claimed the life of 18-year-old Hunter Hopkins of Allen, Texas.       

The preliminary investigation revealed Hopkins was driving a 1998 Toyota truck eastbound on Louisiana Highway 520. For reasons still under investigation, Hopkins failed to negotiate a curve and lost control of his vehicle.  The vehicle traveled off the right side of the highway, struck an embankment, and began to overturn.  Hopkins, who was unrestrained, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital. 

On June 15, 2020, Hopkins succumbed to his injuries sustained in the crash. A toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.    

Buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself in a crash. Failure to take a few seconds to buckle up can have devastating consequences. Louisiana law requires every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained day or night.

In 2020, Troop G has investigated 10 fatal crashes resulting in 10 deaths. 

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Registration is ongoing for the Junior Jacks Virtual Experience at Stephen F. Austin State University. The popular two-week School of Theatre camp is designed for children entering third through ninth grades. This year’s online camp is scheduled for Monday through Friday, July 27 through Aug. 7.

Junior Jacks was designed as a day-camp version of the highly successful High School Summer Theatre Workshop at SFA, according to Carolyn Conn, associate professor of theatre at SFA and the camp’s director. The fun and exciting summer theatre camp, offered in two age groups, is filling quickly, even in its virtual format, and Conn suggested parents register their children early.

Instead of cancelling Junior Jacks this year because of COVID concerns, Conn decided to put the popular summer camp online at the request of parents.

“I decided to go forward because I was encouraged by parents to do so,” she said. “They told me that kids would need these kinds of outlets more than ever if they were still inside (quarantined)  in July. I want children to have something active and creative to do while remaining in their safe environments.”

All meetings will be hosted on Zoom, and final performances of the students will be recorded and aired on the School of Theatre YouTube channel.

“There will be full group workshops and breakout sessions for small group shows,” Conn said.

Junior Jacks is a community outreach opportunity designed to not only introduce children to theatre, but it also allows the School of Theatre’s teacher certification students to work with students who are younger than high school age. Junior Jacks campers traditionally play theatre games and rehearse plays that will be performed at the camp’s conclusion. This year, it will all be online, with theatre teacher certification students getting valuable online teaching experience, Conn said.

Meeting times are 10 a.m. to noon for third through sixth grades and 1 to 3:30 p.m. for seventh through ninth grades. Performances will be recorded on the final day and aired one time only on Aug. 8 on the School of Theatre YouTube channel.

Registration cost is $60 per student and $40 for each additional sibling within a single family. Needs-based scholarships may be available. More information and a registration form can be found at http://www.theatre.sfasu.edu, or contact Conn at conncs@sfasu.edu.

The Joaquin ISD School Board met in regular session at 6:00 p.m. on June 15, 2020, in the Joaquin
Boardroom with the following members present: Chrisco Bragg, Thomas Harvey, Brandon Neal, Jeff
Hamilton, and Jacob Kay.

Click here for School Board Meeting Minutes

DSHS reported 1 new confirmed case.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

230 Cumulative cases

-111 recovered

-8 deaths

=111 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 230 cumulative cases,  35 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…166                                                      1-20…..14           

75974…23                                                       21-40....74

75975…17                                                       41-60…79             4

75973…15                                                       61-80…41             3

75954…9                                                         81-100...17          1

                                                                      Unknown...5

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller released the following response to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit’s ruling vacating three registrations of the herbicide dicamba, effective immediately.  

“For the farmers in Texas, I want to be clear: I’ve got your back.  Dicamba is still available for use in Texas as currently labeled and will continue to be so until someone tells us to stop.  In this difficult time, the last thing Texas farmers need is more uncertainty.”  

“The Ninth Circuit ruling on dicamba is already spurring very significant confusion and chaos among soybean and cotton growers and applicators here in Texas, who were intending to apply the herbicide today, tomorrow and over the coming weeks.   The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can and should provide clarity as soon as possible by announcing that it plans to take further administrative action, and then doing so.”  

“On behalf of the farmers in my state, I respectfully request that EPA issue an existing stocks order to provide appropriate guidance to farmers and applicators and request a Section 18 Emergency Use for these products for Texas farmers.”  

The Texas Department of Agriculture is designated as the lead state agency for the regulation of pesticide use and application in the Lone Star State.  TDA is responsible for licensing and training pesticide applicators, overseeing worker protection, registering pesticides for sale in the state and working to minimize unnecessary impacts to agriculture while enhancing protection of endangered and threatened species. For more information on this responsibility, visit the TDA Pesticides web page.  

You may view the dicamba ruling from the Ninth Circuit here:  PDF

Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that he joined six other attorneys general in a federal lawsuit against John C. Spiller, II and Jakob Mears, along with their Texas-based companies Rising Eagle Capital Group LLC and JSquared Telecom LLC. In coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the coalition of states seeks to put an end to unlawful telemarketing campaigns that bombard consumers with millions of abusive robocalls in violation of the federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act, as well as each state’s respective telemarketing laws.  

“I thank the FCC and attorneys general involved with this enforcement initiative for their dedication to stopping deceptive and abusive robocallers from targeting our citizens. Robocalls, especially those that spoof Caller ID information and violate specific do-not-call lists, are a blatant invasion of privacy,” said Attorney General Paxton. “My office will continue to work diligently to stop those who disregard privacy and seek to take advantage of Texans.” 

Over the past two years, Spiller and Mears have initiated billions of abusive robocalls through the two companies named in the lawsuit. The calls, made to both residential and cellular phone lines, immediately confront consumers with pre-recorded messages pitching healthcare products or automobile extended warranties. Millions of calls reached consumers who have placed their phone numbers on their state and/or national do-not-call registries. Spiller and Mears are also accused of trying to hide their identity and falsifying – or spoofing - caller ID information to make recipients believe the calls are coming from someone they may know. 

Texans who believe they have encountered deceptive trade practices, scams or illegal telemarketing practices should call the Office of the Attorney General’s toll-free complaint line at (800) 621-0508 or file a complaint online. 

The states joining Texas in this lawsuit are Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, and Ohio. 

The Office of the Governor and Dallas Cowboys Linebacker Jaylon Smith today released a new public service announcement (PSA) entitled, "Wear A Mask On And Off The Field." In the PSA, Smith urges Texans to wear a mask to protect themselves and others and follow other important health and safety guidelines like washing your hands and practicing social distancing.

BEAUMONT, Texas – A 52-year-old Groves, Texas man has been sentenced to 78 years in federal prison for violations related to an arson and insurance fraud scheme in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox today.

Patrick Wayne Bronnon was found guilty on Oct. 21, 2019 of 40 charges including conspiracy to commit mail fraud and use of a fire in commission of a felony.  Bronnon was sentenced to 940 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone. 

Breakdown:       

16 counts of mail fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud—100 months on each count to run concurrently.

First count of Use of a Fire in commission of mail fraud (Arson)—120 months consecutive to the 100 months above.

Second count of Use of a Fire in commission of mail fraud—240 months consecutive to the 220 months above  

Third count of Use of a Fire in commission of mail fraud—240 more months consecutive to the 460 months aboveFor a total of 940 months.

“This sentence is deserved not only because of the tremendous loss to insurance companies, but also in light of the danger Bronnon imposed on our first responders every time he set a fire,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox.  “That he put his own greed ahead of the lives of others has cost him his freedom for a long time.”

According to information presented in court, beginning in 2011, Bronnon, and others, began executing a scheme to defraud various insurance companies through fraudulent claims on homes and vehicles.  The scheme involved identifying a low value property and purchasing it through a co-defendant straw purchaser.  Within a few weeks of a down payment being made, Bronnon or an associate would intentionally damage the home, typically by fire or water, in order to collect insurance proceeds.  In total, nine fraudulent fire claims, three fraudulent water damage claims, and two fraudulent theft claims were filed with various insurance companies on nine different addresses, totaling approximately $1.7 million in fraudulent payments. The properties were located in Port Arthur, Port Neches, Beaumont, and Sugarland, Texas.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, National Insurance Crime Bureau and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph R. Batte. 

DSHS reported 3 new confirmed cases and 7 more recoveries.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

229 Cumulative cases

-111 recovered

-8 deaths

=110 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 229 cumulative cases,  35 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIPCODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…165                                                      1-20…..14           

75974…23                                                       21-40....74

75975…17                                                       41-60…79             4

75973…15                                                       61-80…41             3

75954…9                                                         81-100...16          1

                                                                      Unknown...5

POLK COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded to a report of plane crash near the Livingston Municipal Airport yesterday afternoon. The preliminary report indicates at approximately on 6-13-20 on 6:30 p.m., a 1970 Beachcraft airplane was flying from Houston to Deridder, Louisiana when the plane reportedly experiences mechanical issues.

The pilot attempted to land the plane at the Livingston Municipal airport but crashed just east of the runway. The pilot is identified as 54-year-old Tony Presley from Deridder. Presley was transported to Hermann Hospital in Conroe by medical helicopter for treatment.

A passenger with Presley is identified as 57-year-old Robin Presley. Robin Presley was transported to CHI St. Luke’s Hospital in Livingston with unknown injuries.

The FAA and NTSB have been notified and will be conducting the investigation. No additional information is available at this time.

Due to a broken water main the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has required the Choice water system ID# 2100005 to notify customers that were without water 6/14/2020 on HWY 96 North of FM 417( anyone without water) 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 Vince Di Verdi 936-591-1205
 

RIO THEATRE OWNERS RESPOND TO MOVIEGOERS: NO! The theatre is NOT closed permanently due to pandemic virus as so many other businesses are. 

Dear Friends In The Media, We would like you to help inform our community where we stand on re-opening of the Rio. We have so many of our dedicated customers that would like to have a night out or a place to take their children to forget about the virus, so we wanted to give everyone a little insight as to why we haven’t re-opened. We have been given clearance to open by the state, in a limited capacity, 50%, but we are finding out that most people are still not comfortable even with social distancing in a movie auditorium watching a movie with others, not knowing their health situation. Since the film companies know that fact, they are still holding back on releasing any new movies at this time.

Most of the new releases for this year have been pushed to late July or even later. When the movie studios have invested millions of dollars in making a movie, they want to be assured that when they release it to the theatres, it is going to pay them back on that investment. When the theatres have a limited capacity from which to operate, it’s difficult to give the studios what they require and also make a profit for the theatre. The larger cities are the ones that are still trying to figure out how to open with several auditoriums and no movies to play, so until they are able to get movies to fill the screens, we all have to wait. There are still some states that have not allowed their theatres to open at all. States like California and New York that have a high number of theatres with multiple screens, it presents a problem. Playing older movies seems like it would be an option to give everyone a chance to get out of the house, but it is really hard to get the public to pay for a movie that they can watch for free on TV.

Unfortunately at this time, as much as we would love to see our valued customers and also generate an income, with no new movies from the film companies, it is just not feasible. We want to make sure that when we do re-open, it will be in a safe environment for everyone as well as our staff. During this time of being closed, we have been doing maintenance work and cleaning inside the theatre and making sure everyone will be safe when they come back. We are also facing a problem on the Center Downtown Square, with the streets being closed for the facelift it is getting. We already have a parking issue on the square and having our streets closed for such a long period of time has created a hardship on the “mom & pop “ businesses that are struggling to make ends meet.

Hopefully when we get some new movies, we will be able to have parking that is convenient for our customers to park. We definitely do believe there is a pent-up demand for people to be able to get back out in the world and live our lives normally, but we don’t think right now is the proper time. We ask that you please understand that we are doing what the film industry allows when it is safe and the time is right for everyone to stay well. We miss every one of our supporters more than you know and thank you for being patient with us during this difficult time. Please pray for the families that have had to endure more than a financial loss at this time, because losing our loved ones or seeing them suffer with this devastating illness is more than we can imagine. 

Thank you for your support, Mike and Nita Adkison, Owners Rio Theatre Center, Tx. 
 

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 17th day of June 2020 at 9:30 a.m. in the Courtroom of the Shelby County Courthouse at 200 San Augustine Street, Center, Shelby County, Texas to deliberate and consider action on the following items:

1.    Approve and pay weekly expenses.

2.    Public comments on Agenda item.

3.    Presentation of the Shelby County Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Financial Audit Report by Mr. Justin Matthews, CPA (Axley & Rode, LLP).

4.    Review and approve FY2020 Budget Line Item Transfers.

5.    Adopt County Holidays for 2021.

6.    Adjourn.
 

For anyone who purchased a 2020 CMS yearbook, these can be picked up at the Center Middle School office Monday through Thursday, 7:30 until 5:30. No more books are available as all extra books have been sold.

June 12, 2020

The Joaquin Public Safety Corporation will meet in special session Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. at the Joaquin City Office located at 124 N. Preston, Joaquin, Texas and via Facebook live here

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.    Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest.
2.    Review bills to be paid.
3.    Discuss and/or approve on City donating the fire substation to the JVFD, and to assume all the responsibilities; per auditor. 
4.    Discuss and/or approve fencing bids for Hwy 7 Fire Station 2 property and building.
5.    Discuss and/or approve antenna JVFD replacement on the water tower.
6.    Adjourn.
 

June 12, 2020

The City Council of Joaquin will meet in regular session Tuesday June 16, 2020 at
6:00 p.m. at The Joaquin City Hall located at 124 North Preston, Joaquin, Texas and via Facebook live here.

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 meeting’s minutes.
5.    Monthly Reports:
a.    Utility Billing Manager Report -- Monthly Receipts & Adjustments Report.
b.    Public Works Manager-Update – Departmental Updates
6.    Council approval on Payment of Bills.
7.    Review bills to be paid.
8.    Discussion & Council Action to award construction bid for TxCDBG7219211 Sewer System Improvements. 
9.    Discussion & Council Action on City giving the fire substation to the JVFD, and to assume all the responsibilities; per auditor. 
10.    Discussion & Council Action on fencing bids for Hwy 7 Fire Station 2 property and building.
11.    Discussion & Council Action on antenna JVFD replacement on the water tower.
12.    Discussion & Council Action to open bids on City owned property on Steve Hughes Drive, approve and accept. 
13.    Discussion & Council Action to change Economic Development and Public Safety meetings time. 
14.    Discussion & Council Action to stop payments for Cleaners. 
15.    Discuss on tax payers being able to vote. 
16.    Council will hold a closed Executive Session Meeting.
a)    Personnel Matters (551.074).
17.    Council reconvenes & possible action on matters discussed in executive session.
18.    Adjournment.

*Early this morning, Louisiana State Police Troopers arrested 33-year-old Richard Wimer of Stonewall. Wimer was booked into DeSoto Parish Detention Center and charged with vehicular homicide and reckless operation. No further information is available at this time. 

Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists that if you feel differently, you drive differently.  Alcohol, prescription drugs, and other drugs have many effects on the body that negatively affect driving skills.  These drugs can impair visual ability, alter the sense of time and space, impair fine motor skills needed to operate a motor vehicle, and decrease reaction times.  Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and designate a sober driver.  Not doing so can have deadly consequences.

See below for the news release issued in February. 

DeSoto Parish – On February 12, 2020, just before 8:00 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. Highway 84 west of Louisiana Highway 3248.  This crash claimed the life of a 43-year-old DeSoto Parish Deputy Donna Richardson-Below.   

The initial investigation revealed a 2008 Jeep Cherokee, driven by 33-year-old Richard Wimer of Stonewall, was entering a curve while traveling east on U.S. Highway 84.  At the same time, an unmarked DeSoto Parish Sherriff’s Office’s Ford Crown Victoria, driven by Deputy Richardson-Below, was traveling west on U.S. Highway 84.  For reasons still under investigation, Wimer lost control of his vehicle and crossed a double yellow line which resulted in the collision with the Deputy’s vehicle.  Deputy Richardson-Below, who was properly restrained, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. 

Wimer, who was unrestrained, received moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital.  Toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.  The crash remains under investigation. 

Motorists need to use caution when driving in inclement weather.  Speeding increases the chances of motorists to lose control of the vehicle.  Louisiana law allows law enforcement to issue citations to motorists for driving too fast for road conditions.

In 2020, Louisiana State Police Troop G has investigated two fatal crashes resulting in two deaths. 

DSHS reported 1 new confirmed case and 1 more recovery.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

226 Cumulative cases

-104 recovered

-8 deaths

=114 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 226 cumulative cases,  35 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIPCODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…162                                                     1-20…..14            

75974…23                                                       21-40....71

75975…17                                                       41-60…79             4

75973…15                                                       61-80…41             3

75954…9                                                        81-100...16           1

                                                                     Unknown...5

On Thursday, June 11th, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. in San Augustine, Texas at the Log Cabin Chamber building people gathered for a parade honoring the elderly and health care workers. 

The parade was hosted by Shelby Savings Bank and drove all around San Augustine. In addition, one elderly woman, in particular, turned 102, Bernadine Pleasant Mettauer-Haney, known by the locals as Aunt B was honored as well she is a resident at Stonecreek Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility. 

Aunt B

For more photos click here:

Video by Walter Bounds.

The worst thing about the East Texas summer isn’t sunburn, heat or humidity – its chiggers. They were commonly called “red bugs” when I was growing up during the 1940’s and 1950’s.

There were times when I went fishing and the next day those annoying red bumps began to appear on my legs and torso.  Then the itch began, and grew in intensity.  From my feet and ankles upward, and especially at those tender locations my mother told me not to scratch in public, the maddening itch took hold.  The itch would last for days, and even weeks.  There was not much one could do to relieve the itch but grin and bear it.

I knew a man, an unusual man, who seemed to be immune to these juvenile forms of a mite, akin to a tick.  His name was Ben Woods, my uncle.  When my father’s sister, Margaret, married Ben, he was a candy salesman in the late 1930’s.  Uncle Ben worked for a candy company.  He would load his car trunk with all types of candy and traverse the dusty country roads of East Texas and western Louisiana.  Aiming for small communities in the back woods, he would park his vehicle under a tree and honk his car horn repeatedly.  Kids showed up in abundance to purchase his nickel candy, and earn a chance to try their luck at a punch card.  If they punched out the right hole they could win even more candy or other prizes.   He never seemed to attract any chiggers while working the back roads.

In the late 1940’s Uncle Ben got a job with the Texas Highway Department, the perfect job for him.  His task was to search for gravel on private land that the department could lease from the owner, then use it in new road construction or maintenance.  This required Uncle Ben to roam through the forests of East Texas, parts of which required a machete to get through.  Day after day he searched for gravel, often finding Indian arrowheads and other relics of the past.  Still, he never seemed to be bothered by those small, red pests.

Perhaps he knew something that I did not know about them.  One day I asked Uncle Ben a question, “What do you use to keep the chiggers off you?”   He looked at me, a cigarette hanging from his lips, and chided me, “Well, son, it’s simple - bacon grease.”  Surprised at his answer, I replied, “Are you kidding?  Bacon grease?  Just how does that work?”  He flipped the ashes off his cigarette, put his hand on my young shoulder, and explained, “What you do is smear bacon grease from your ankles up past your knees, a real good coat of it.”  Was he kidding, or serious?  I could not determine.  “So, do the chiggers not like the smell or something?” I queried.

“Nope, it works like this.  When the tick or chigger starts to climb up your leg he can’t get any traction, and simply slides back down.  After a while it just gives up and jumps off.”

As a youngster I figured that this advice had to be real.  After all it was from a man who practically lived in the thickets.  I actually tried it a few times but stopped when my mother loudly complained about my greasy pants, and her lack of bacon grease to cook with.  I think I finally figured out his secret – he used powdered sulphur, called sublimed sulphur.

Chiggers hate sulphur and definitely avoid it.  Available at most pharmacies, it works well when it is dusted around the opening of your pants, socks, and boots.  Some people rub on a mixture of half talcum powder and half sulphur on their legs, arms and waist.

I recently asked a local surveyor the same question I asked Uncle Ben so many years ago.  He told me that he uses ordinary flea and tick collars usually seen on dogs.  They are placed around his ankles and thighs, according to him, and they keep the ticks and chiggers off.  I wonder if that is an “Uncle Ben” answer?  What do you think?

“CHIGGER  FIGHTER”

BY:  NEAL  MURPHY
107 Hemlock Street
San Augustine, Texas 75972
936-275-9033
cell: 936-275-6986
email: humptydumpty1940@gmail.com

697 words

Joaquin Independent School District Board Notice is hereby given that on the 15th day of June 2020 the Board of Trustees of the Joaquin School District will hold a regular meeting at 6:00 p.m., at the Administration building, Joaquin, Texas.

Click here for the agenda:

NACOGDOCHES, Texas ¾ Dr. Jeremy Stovall, professor of forestry at Stephen F. Austin State University, was recently presented with a plaque recognizing his dedication to excellence as Faculty Senate chair by SFA President Dr. Scott Gordon.

“I want to congratulate Jeremy Stovall for leading our Faculty Senate during this past year,” Gordon said. “We will all remember 2019-2020 as the academic year that saw a worldwide health crisis as a result of COVID-19. Jeremy was a shining star and handled this critical leadership role with careful thought and compassion.”

The Faculty Senate, which includes 32 faculty members, serves as an advisory body to the provost and president, acting as one of the main means of communication between faculty and administrators. Senators are elected by the faculty of each college, the library and non-tenure track faculty.

Chairing the senate for a year, Stovall served out of a desire to learn more about how SFA functions as an institution. As circumstances began changing in mid-March, Stovall worked closely with the senate and administration to find solutions.

“COVID-19 presented the Faculty Senate with unprecedented challenges in quick succession these past several months,” Stovall said. “Fortunately, we had talented faculty serving on the senate who did all they could to meet these challenges. Dr. Gordon, Dr. Bullard and the entirety of the SFA administration worked diligently to collaborate with the Faculty Senate and our leadership, providing an excellent example of shared governance.”

To learn more about the Faculty Senate, sfasu.edu/facsenate/.

DSHS reported 9 new confirmed cases. Unfortunately, 2 more deaths were also reported on Wednesday. 

No new recoveries or lost to follow were reported.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

225 Cumulative cases

-103 recovered

-8 deaths

=114 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 225  cumulative cases,  35 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…162                                                     1-20…..14            

75974…22                                                       21-40....70

75975…17                                                       41-60…79             4

75973…15                                                       61-80…41             3

75954…9                                                         81-100...16          1

                                                                       Unknown...5

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Young local writers attending this summer’s Nacogdoches/Stephen F. Austin State University Barrio Writers workshop are getting advice on their writing from nationally known artists and preparing for a live reading at 6:30 p.m. Friday online.

You can register for the live reading at sfasu.edu/bwzoom.

Because of COVID-19, this summer’s workshop is being held via Zoom and is limited to 20 participants between the ages of 13 and 21 who want to publish their own writings and attend college. Since the workshop began on June 1, participants have been working on two pieces in styles that include poetry, short story, essay, hip-hop and spoken word.

During the workshop, the young writers have received guidance from guest artists Terry Blas, Naomi Shihab Nye and Kalani Tonga.

Blas is a queer, Mexican-American illustrator and writer based in Portland, Oregon. His auto-biography comics “Ghetto Swirl,” “You Say Latino” and “You Say Latinx” were featured on National Public Radio and vox.com. His work has appeared in the comics “Bravest Warriors,” “Regular Show,” “The Amazing World of Gumball” and “Adventure Time.”

His first graphic novel, “Dead Weight: Murder at Camp Bloom,” is a murder mystery set at a weight loss camp. It was named by the Young Adult Library Services Association as a 2019 Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Readers. His third book, “Lifetime Passes,” is a summertime adventure set at a Southern California theme park and will be published by Surely Books.

Blas spoke with participants about the publishing process for graphic novels and strategies for writing projects.

“He reminded them that discipline is more important than inspiration,” said Dr. Amber Wagnon, writing advisor for the workshop and an assistant professor in SFA’s James I. Perkins College of Education. “He has whole journals of ideas he wants to write about, but he said ‘discipline is what gets it written.’”

Nye, the Young People’s Poet Laureate of the United States, visited Nacogdoches in January to work with SFA faculty, staff and preservice teachers, as well as local teachers and high school students. She travels the world to lead writing workshops and inspire students of all ages.

Nye was born to a Palestinian father and an American mother and grew up in St. Louis, Jerusalem and San Antonio. Drawing on her Palestinian-American heritage, the cultural diversity of her home in Texas, and her experiences traveling in Asia, Europe, Canada, Mexico and the Middle East, Nye helped participants explore ideas about connections, community, strength, challenges and our shared humanity.

“This opportunity to write enabled the youth to make connections between their lives and the historical events happening in our country,” Wagnon said.

Tonga is an author, artist, editor and mother of five from Salt Lake City, Utah. She played volleyball in college, and she was inducted into her high school's Athletic Hall of Fame. She facilitates women's empowerment groups for Pacific Islanders in her community and seeks to amplify the voices of the marginalized. Her father emigrated from the Pacific Island nation of Tonga to the San Francisco Bay Area when he was 13 years old.

She shared with Barrio Writers her life journey that led to college and how her artwork sprang out of a desire to do something just for herself. She incorporates colors and symbols of her Polynesian culture in her art, and she is often inspired by her home life.

“Tonga characterizes her artwork as ‘hopeful’ — an idea that many of the Barrio Writers chose to explore in their own writing after her session,” said Dr. Lauren Burrow, a workshop advisor and associate professor in the Perkins College of Education. “She said when she creates her art ‘there are no mistakes,’ because she often feels she is connected to and guided by her ancestors, so however it turns out is what it was supposed to be.”

As a chapter of the national Barrio Writers organization, the Nacogdoches/SFA program has hosted 30 East Texas students for this free workshop every summer since 2015 to help build their skills in reading, grammar, creative writing, critical thinking and freedom of expression through cultural arts.

Two other faculty members in the Perkins College of Education — Dr. Heather Olson Beal, professor, and Dr. Chrissy Cross, associate professor — also are advising students during the two-week workshop.

Founded by author Sarah Rafael Garcia in 2009, Barrio Writers is designed to empower the teenage community while establishing a self-sufficient educational program that represents community pride, perseverance and endless possibilities for following generations.

For more information, email sfabarriowriters@gmail.com or follow the Barrio Writers Facebook page for updates.

Sam Samford Masonic Lodge announces postponement of the annual Scholarship Fundraiser, raffle drawing.  The drawing is postponed due to Covid 19, Closures and Social Distancing over the past few months.  

The drawing will be held at the lodge stated meeting on September 8 th.  The raffle item is a two compartment, bar be cue, smoker, pit with two fish cookers, on a 16 foot, covered trailer.  Tickets are available for donations of $100. each or Six for $500.  

Tickets can be obtained from lodge members and the cook trailer can be seen at the lodge on Hwy 96 south in Center. For more information call 936 598 5738 or 936 598 4280.

On Thursday, June 11th, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. in San Augustine, Texas at the Log Cabin Chamber building the line up for a parade honoring the elderly and health care workers will be held. The parade will be hosted by Shelby Savings Bank.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

216 Cumulative cases

-103 recovered

-6 deaths

=107 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 216 cumulative cases,  35 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…158                                                      1-20…..12             

75974…21                                                        21-40....67

75975…17                                                        41-60…77               4

75973…12                                                        61-80…39               2

75954…8                                                          81-100...16

                                                                      Unknown...5

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is distributing additional cases of the antiviral drug remdesivir to 85 hospitals across 34 counties in Texas. These cases have been provided to DSHS through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. DSHS will allocate 125 total cases of the liquid-form of remdesivir across the state, enough to treat approximately 500 patients. This is the fourth round of distribution total from the federal government, and will bring the total number of cases distributed by DSHS to Texas hospitals to 609.

"By allocating additional cases of remdesivir to communities across the state, Texas is prioritizing the health and recovery of our fellow Texans," said Governor Abbott. "It is imperative that we continue to equip Texas medical providers with the supplies they need to respond to COVID-19, and I am grateful to our partners at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for their continued assistance in providing cases of remedisivir."

Remdesivir has shown promise in early trials in speeding up the recovery time among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The medication is being distributed by DSHS according to COVID-19 hospitalizations data to better target areas of need, which also includes state owned hospitals. Using a five-day average of hospitalization data from May 25th through May 29th, DSHS used county weighting of the number of COVID positive patients in hospitals to determine the number of Remdesivir cases per county. The number of Remdesivir cases each hospital will receive is allocated based on the hospitalized COVID positive patients in their hospital and county allocation.

DSHS confirmed that military and VA hospitals will receive remdesivir directly and are therefore excluded from this distribution methodology. Additionally, because use of a limited supply is prioritized towards severely ill patients in facilities with ICUs, hospitals without ICU beds were excluded from the distribution. The liquid-form of remdesivir cannot be used for children, which also excludes children's hospitals from this distribution.

Medical staff at each hospital will determine how the drug will be used, though it must be prescribed in accordance with the Food and Drug Administration’s Emergency Use Authorization, allowing for the treatment of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 in adults and children hospitalized with severe disease, such as those in intensive care. Preliminary results from a clinical trial showed the average recovery time among patients who received remdesivir was 11 days versus 15 days with a placebo. The supply is part of a donation from drug maker Gilead.

Our 2020 Yearbooks are here! Students who purchased a book during the school year may pick up a book Thursday, June 11, from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Look for yellow sign in teacher parking lot to left of the main building.

If you are unsure if you made a purchase, email gladys.andrews@centerisd.org or send FB message to Gladys Bailey Andrews.

We have a few extras to sell for $32. If you are interested contact Mrs. Andrews.

East Texas Communities Foundation (ETCF) awarded $294,000 in scholarships to high school and college students from East Texas for the 2020-21 school year. Scholarship amounts range from $500-$5,000 per student originating from 70 different scholarship funds at ETCF.

“East Texas Communities Foundation is honored to help these deserving students continue their education and is grateful for the opportunity to fulfill the charitable goals of the many individuals, organizations, and families who have made it possible,” said Kyle Penney, President of East Texas Communities Foundation. “Each year we are impressed with the quality of students applying for these funds. The donors who have invested in these students through the creation of scholarships have given a lasting gift to all East Texans.”

For a complete listing of 2020 scholarship recipients, please go to HERE and click on scholarship recipients.

East Texas Communities Foundation has named Center High School graduates Taylor Burch, Benjamin Galindo and Mallory Fausett as recipients of the John Harris Scholarship.

 
Miss Burch is attending Panola College in the fall focusing on a career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. Miss Burch was active in tennis, FFA, National Honor Society and the Junior Chamber of Commerce as a student at Center High School.

Mr. Galindo plans to attend Stephen F. Austin as a history major. Throughout high school, Mr. Galindo participated on the UIL Social Studies team, was a columnist for the school newspaper, a member of the National Honor Society and a member of the band.

Miss Fausett is headed to Tyler Junior College studying Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Miss Fausett participated in the Junior Chamber of Commerce and National Honor Society while in school. 

The John Harris Scholarship is the legacy of a man who was devoted to his community, his church, and education.  Mr. Harris earned a degree in business and music at Baylor University, and then returned to his hometown of Center, Texas, to teach high school students. This scholarship was established upon his death to help students from Center High School attend college.

About ETCF.org   

 
East Texas East Texas Communities Foundation is a nonprofit corporation serving 32 counties in East Texas. The Foundation distributed $12 million in grants in 2019 and currently manages over $110 million in over 374 unique charitable funds which support non-profit organizations and student scholarships. The Foundatio¬¬n, which was formed in 1989, has awarded almost $100 million in grants and scholarships since its inception. Philanthropy builds community and changes lives. East Texas Communities Foundation supports philanthropy by offering simple ways for donors to achieve their charitable goals.

On June 9, 2020, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality required the San Augustine Rural Public Water System, #2030007, to issue a Boil Water Notice to inform customers, individuals or employees that due to conditions which occurred recently in the public water system, the water from this public water system was required to be boiled prior to use for drinking water or human consumption purposes.

San Augustine Rural Water 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 June 9, 2020.

If you have questions concerning this matter, you may contact the office:

220 West Columbia Street
San Augustine, Texas.
936-288-0489
or
Charles Sharp 936-201-5001.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation.

If a customer, individual or employee wishes to contact the executive director, please call (512)239-4691. 
 

On Thursday, June 11th, at 11:00 a.m., the University Scholastic League will host a virtual awards presentation to honor Shelbyville High School’s 2020 Boys State Basketball Championship season.  The online Zoom presentation will honor the Shelbyville Dragon coaches, players, and school for their fourth Boys State Basketball State Championship in school history.  Mario Osby, Shelbyville High School Principal, will be the Dragon’s featured speaker.
Public Livestream Information:

The award presentation will be livestreamed on the UIL website and on the UIL YouTube channel.  The YouTube link will allow all Dragon stakeholders that are not participating in the Zoom presentation to view the awards ceremony virtually.  The videos will remain embedded on the UIL site and UIL YouTube page after the ceremony is over for anyone to view in the future.  Please join the live presentation at one of the following links to celebrate Shelbyville High School’s back-to-back Conference 2A Boys State Basketball Champions:

Link on UIL Website:  https://www.uiltexas.org/athletics/2019-2020-bb-virtual-awards

Link to UIL YouTube:  https:://youtube.com/channel/UC7PNp1HICGuj1D9GTXVqfLA
Dragon Pride!

LONGVIEW, Texas, June 8, 2020 – The American Electric Power Foundation has awarded a total of $29,500 to five East Texas nonprofits in Southwestern Electric Power Co.’s (SWEPCO) service area providing additional health and human services in response to COVID-19. Grant dollars will aid organizations in expanding services and accommodating increased caseloads.

The American Electric Power Foundation is funded by American Electric Power (NYSE: AEP) and its utility operating units, including SWEPCO. Organizations receiving funds include:

1. CASA of Harrison County, $4,500, to assist with additional cases and the needs of sponsored children and their families in special circumstances.

2. Rusk County Salvation Army, $5,000, to help with an increase in food pantry requests from new families applying for assistance.

3. Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center, $10,000, to address increased domestic violence and sexual abuse cases as well as general counseling needs.

4. Mission Marshall Food Pantry, $5,000, to help with an increase in food pantry requests from new families applying for assistance.

5. Shelby County Child Advocacy Center, $5,000, to address increased domestic violence and sexual abuse cases as well as general counseling needs.

“We are excited to hear how these funds are making a positive impact in our communities,” said Mark Robinson, External Affairs manager in Longview. “Our partner agencies are aware of specific needs in our community and are diligently providing relief for those experiencing difficult situations.” 

Roxanne Stevenson, Executive Director of The Martin House Children’s Advocacy Center, said for many children, home isn’t safe. It’s where abuse happens.

“Without teachers and other protective adults interacting with kids regularly due to the pandemic, cases of severe abuse are on the rise,” she said. “This generous AEP Foundation grant allows us to provide case coordination, advocacy, therapy, and other intervention services so children can heal.”

In Shelby County, funds will enable remote access to child advocacy services. “COVID-19 forced our agency to rapidly find and implement new ways of working,” said Denise Merriman, Shelby County Child Advocacy Center. “We are so fortunate that we did not also have to scramble to find funding for these changes. The grant from the AEP Foundation allowed us to pay for many of the expenses that resulted in moving to remote service delivery. We are grateful for their support during this critical time." Similarly, food pantries have experienced an increased demand for services.

“Thanks to the generous grant from the AEP Foundation, we can walk alongside the worried guests in need to provide food items and help alleviate at least one of their concerns during this difficult time,” said Mission Marshall Food Pantry Manager Darlene Dotson.

The AEP Foundation has provided nearly $3 million in emergency funds to support basic human needs (food, shelter, and housing assistance) and other COVID-19 related emergencies across the AEP system. The fund previously donated $42,000 to Longview's Meals on Wheels Ministry.

“We are truly grateful for the generous gift from the AEP Foundation," said Tiffany Damskov, Marketing and Development director for the Meals on Wheels Ministry. "Their donation helped us to continue providing meals for the East Texas seniors and disabled clients in their service area.”

The AEP Foundation provides a permanent, ongoing resource for charitable initiatives involving higher dollar values and multi-year commitments in the communities served by AEP and initiatives outside of AEP’s 11-state service area. 

The Foundation focuses on improving lives through education from early childhood through higher education in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and by meeting basic needs for emergency shelter, affordable housing and the elimination of hunger. The AEP Foundation is based in Columbus, Ohio. 

As the spring semester comes to a unique end at Panola College, the College is already making plans to carefully resume face-to-face instruction on August 19.

“The health and safety of Panola College students, faculty, and staff is always our first priority,” said Dr. Greg Powell, Panola College president. “We want our students to enjoy the full college experience including face-to-face classes, sports, fine art events, and living on-campus. Our re-opening committee is working hard on ways to do this safely.”

Panola College plans to reopen all locations to the public on June 15 following social distancing guidelines. The College will remain working remotely on Fridays throughout the summer to allow for deep cleaning each week. Most courses this summer will be held strictly online with the exception of a few courses that require hands-on experiences, such as cosmetology.

Cosmetology services will remain closed to the public throughout the summer and all summer camps have been canceled including Kids College and athletic camps. Financial aid and student advising appointments are still encouraged to take place by phone and email whenever possible.

“Despite our plan to return to normal operations this fall, no one knows how the pandemic will progress through summer and into the fall, but our committee is preparing plans for multiple scenarios,” stated Dr. Powell

“We know that being flexible will be important as the situation continues to evolve. It is our intention to balance a safe and healthy campus while maintaining a great college experience for our students. We miss the energy our students bring to Panola College and look forward to its return this fall.”

The College will be reviewing the spring semester transition to online instruction and how the process could be improved in the future. Instructors will receive additional distance learning training and will be prepared to move online should another outbreak occur this fall.

Additional safety measures listed below will be put in place to help the College reopening:

• Face-to-face classes size will be smaller and more courses will be in a hybrid format this fall.
• Hand sanitizing and disinfectant wipe stations are being placed in high traffic areas throughout all buildings.
• Plexi glass shields are being installed between students and staff at many locations.
• Students, faculty, staff, and visitors to campus are encouraged to wear a face covering per CDC guidelines.
• Campus signage is being placed around campus to promote CDC guidelines, including wearing a face covering, social distancing, washing your hands, and covering your cough.
• A hygiene package will be given to all students, faculty, and staff which will include a face covering, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes at the beginning of the fall semester.
• Faculty and staff will be asked to complete a health screening.
• The entire college will be sanitizing on a nightly basis.
• Protocols are also being put into place should a student or employee test positive for COVID-19.
•  

Safety precautions and protocols will be further developed and refined over the summer as the College closely monitors the situation and will follow the guidance from federal, state, and local health officials. More information may be found at https://www.panola.edu/public-relations/coronavirus.

Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) is coordinating with local officials, public health officials, and emergency management offices in cities across the state to identify and rapidly expand COVID-19 testing in underserved and minority communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the virus. This mission is part of TDEM's ongoing partnership with the Texas Military Department (TMD), the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force (EMTF), and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and increase testing where needed. 

TDEM is already working with local officials in the cities of Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, El Paso, Abilene, the Rio Grande Valley, the Coastal Bend, Laredo, and Midland-Odessa to identify and establish walk-up and drive-thru testing sites that will meet the needs of each community, and is in the process of working with other cities to bring more sites online in the coming days. TDEM is also working with local leaders to expand walk-up and drive-thru testing in urban areas where large-scale protests have taken place.

"As the State of Texas continues to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we are committed to ensuring every Texan has access to COVID-19 testing no matter where they live," said Governor Abbott. "We must address the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on underserved and minority communities and ensure that anyone who needs a test can have one. As many Texans continue to gather for protests, the state is also taking steps to address potential surges in COVID-19 cases. We are ensuring that Texans can continue to safely exercise their First Amendment Rights while putting protocols in place to identify and mitigate any spread of COVID-19."

As these sites continue to come online across the state, Texans can visit covidtest.tdem.texas.gov to find the test collection location nearest them.

TMD currently has 1,535 National Guardsmen supporting the state's mission to expand testing across the Lone Star State. To date these teams have conducted 116,394 specimen collections, and have fielded over 195,000 phone calls for test collection appointments with an average wait time of 55 seconds.

June 9th COVID-19 update:

San Augustine now has 45 positive cases confirmed by the Angelina Health District.
I expect our numbers to rise significantly when the Nursing Home Numbers are (finally) released. One nursing home has an unofficial 23 positive cases. That number has NOT been confirmed or added by the Angelina Health District.

A recent email from the Health District has this statement: “ Numbers continue to rise, more widespread, touching a variety of employers and employees. Age groups range from early 20’s to the elderly. Contacts to positives are the majority of spread, mostly from face to face contact with no mask.”

San Augustine County has 4 positive case deaths. Please continue to pray for and respect the privacy of those directly affected.

Avoiding group gatherings and wearing a face covering still is the best defense against this virus.

Take care and God Bless,

Jeff Boyd

San Augustine County Judge

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in the investigation of the murder of Curtis Price II.

On Saturday, November 9, 2019, at approximately 11:00 P.M., the Shelby County Sheriff's Office received a call regarding an individual lying on the side of the roadway on County Road 2020. Deputies responded to the location and found a male subject deceased who was identified as Curtis Price II.

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office initiated a homicide investigation and the investigation has continued over the past seven months with various leads and collection of additional evidence. Despite the passing of seven months’ time, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office has not forgotten about Mr. Price and his untimely death, nor did his family and friends. The pursuit of justice continues.

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is asking for any information that will lead them to further evidence in this case and/or further information that will assist in securing a conviction for the suspect(s) involved, so justice can be served and bring the much-needed closure for Mr. Price's family.

You are encouraged to please contact the Shelby County Sheriff's Office at 936-598-5600. Any information will be greatly appreciated and remember that you can remain anonymous.

Plans for the 2020 East Texas Poultry Festival, Sponsored by Farmers State Bank, are underway.  This year’s festival will take place October 1st, 2nd and 3rd on the downtown square in Center.

We are going forward with plans for a successful Poultry Festival and will follow all guidelines set out by federal, state and local governments for a safe Festival.  The health and safety of our guests and partners are our top priority.   Unless any orders are in place by local, state or federal agencies, or health and safety concerns exist, the 2020 East Texas Poultry Festival will welcome guests as usual.

We are very excited to be having the 44th Annual Poultry Festival on the, soon to be, newly renovated downtown square.  The streetscape project will be finishing up right before the Poultry Festival begins.  The new design will allow for a slightly modified set up for vendors and booths, hopefully for the better. The Steering Committee has already met several times to start preparing for these modifications.

Applications for Arts and Crafts booth are being accepted at this time.

Despite the uncertainty we all face, the Poultry Festival Committee looks forward to September when we kick off the Poultry Festival activities, and to the Festival itself at the beginning of October.

For more information contact the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce at 936-598-3682, or email info@shelbycountychamber.com or visit our website at www.shelbycountychamber.com.

Presented by farmers state bank

The Grill Fest sanctioned barbecue cook-off, presented by Farmers State Bank, will take place Saturday, July 18th at the Shelby County Expo Center/Rodeo Arena. The Gold Sponsors are Badders Law Firm, Pilgrims Pride and Tyson Foods.  

“Over $6,500 will be awarded in prize money to registered cook teams.  Cook teams may register and enter the contest with a $150 registration fee prior to July 3rd or $200 after that date,” according to the Grill Fest Committee. You may register up until the day of the Event. The barbecue cook-off is sanctioned by the Lone Star Barbecue Society. 

Prize money for the top 50% of the cook teams will be awarded in three categories – Pork Spare Ribs, Chicken and Brisket.  Trophies will be awarded for Grand Champion and Reserve Champion. Awards are sponsored by the City of Center.

In addition to the Chillin’ and Grillin’, there will be a Washer Pitching Tournament and 42 Tournament, both sponsored by Shelby Savings Bank, and DJ Steve Adams will provide music.   Entertainment is sponsored by Rapid Payday & Title Pro.  

The public is invited to attend and sample tastings of barbecue at cook team stations as well as enjoy all the fun activities.  Entry is free.  Social distancing will be encouraged and food samplings will follow new health  guidelines.  The health and safety of all guests and cookers are our top priority and we feel confident that with all attendees being considerate of each other we can enjoy a time of fun, fellowship and great barbeque.

Silver sponsors are Ace Hardware of East Texas, B & S A/C and Heating, Bob’s Pawn and Shop, Texas Make and Model and 4C Electrical Services,                                                                                                                       

Registration forms and additional information is available at www.shelbycountychamber.com or at the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce office – 936-598-3682.  Questions may also be emailed to info@shelbycountychamber.com.                          

Timpson ISD Bear Update

6/8/2020

Student Vaccination Information – Please see the information below.  Nurse Lynnette says if a shot record is needed, a message may be left on her office voice mail (936/558-4113) and she will make arrangements to have a copy of the shot record available for the requestor.  

4570book | HD |ULTRA | Back To School Bash Clipart Of Flowers Pack ...

Immunization Clinic at Aurora Concepts!

233 Hurst St. Suite B Center, Texas 75935

(BEHIND THE FAMILY PRACTICE)

June 30, 2020

The vaccine clinic will be held 8A.M. – 5P.M.

Please call to make an appointment: 936-598-3296

TYPICAL TIME FOR ROUTINE VACCINES

·       4 yo entering Kindergarten

·       Students entering 7th grade

·       Students entering Senior year

Please bring the following:

Insurance card (Private insurance, Medicaid or Chips)

Up to Date shot record

No out of pocket expense for 18 and under without insurance or those that have Private insurance, Medicaid or Chips!

Aurora Concepts, LLC

233 Hurst Street, Suite B

Center, Texas 75935

936-598-3296

1 The Joaquin ISD School Board met tonight in special session at 5:00 p.m. in the Joaquin
Boardroom with the following members present: Chrisco Bragg, Thomas Harvey, Brandon Neal, Jeff Hamilton, Jeff Cater, and Jacob Kay Board members absent: Ronnie Belrose
Guest(s) Present: Joaquin ISD Employee(s) Present: Ryan Fuller, Superintendent; Joel Bumback, Director of Finance;Sherry Scruggs, Elementary Principal Chrisco Bragg, President, called the meeting to order at 5:01 p.m.
2 The invocation was led by Chrisco Bragg, and the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America by Brandon Neal, and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas Flag was led by Jeff Cater.
3 Audience Participation – None
4 Report and Information items:
4.1 Discuss City Marshal Position
4.2 Report on Elementary Playground Project
4.3 Report on Intersessional Calendar
5 Agenda Items for discussion, consideration, and possible action:
5.1 It was moved by Thomas Harvey, and seconded by Jeff Cater, to approve amendment to
grading policy for 2019-2020 due to COVID-19. Following discussion, a vote was taken on
the motion. It carried unanimously.
5.2 It was moved by Jacob Kay, and seconded by Jeff Hamilton, to approve 2019-2020 Budget
amendments. Following discussion, a vote was taken on the motion. It carried
unanimously.
6 The board entered closed session in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas
Government Code Section 551.074 at 5:53 p.m. on June 4, 2020.
551.074 Appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a
public officer or employee or to hear a complaint or charge against an officer or employee
6.1.1 Resignations, Hiring, and Contracts
7 The board entered open session in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas
Government Code Section 551.074 at 6:16 p.m. on June 4, 2020. Agenda Items for discussion,
consideration, and possible action:
7.1.1 It was moved by Brandon Neal, and seconded by Jeff Hamilton, to hire Bailee Smith as an
elementary teacher for the 2020-2021 school year. Following discussion, a vote was taken on
the motion. It carried unanimously.
7.1.2 It was moved by Jacob Kay, and seconded by Jeff Cater, to hire Teresa Jones as an
elementary teacher for the 2020-2021 school year. Following discussion, a vote was taken
on the motion. It carried unanimously.
7.1.3 It was moved by Thomas Harvey, and seconded by Jeff Hamilton, to hire
Julie Bass for an elementary position for the 2020-2021 school year with teacher contract
awarded after certification. Following discussion, a vote was taken on the motion. It carried
unanimously.
7.1.4 It was moved by Brandon Neal, and seconded by Thomas Harvey, to hire Ryan Mason as a
secondary special education teacher for the 2020-2021 school year. Following discussion, a
vote was taken on the motion. It carried unanimously.
7.1.5 It was moved by Jeff Cater, and seconded by Jacob Kay, to accept the resignation of Cody
Owens. Following discussion, a vote was taken on the motion. It carried unanimously.
8 Chrisco Bragg, Board President, asked for items to be placed on the next board agenda.

9 Designation of date and time of next meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Joaquin ISD.
 June 15, 2020 6:00 pm.
10 With no further business on the agenda the meeting was adjourned at 6:21 pm.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Thanks to a Conservation Innovation Grant from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Stephen F. Austin State University’s Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture is moving forward with the establishment of a silvopasture demonstration area at the Walter C. Todd Agricultural Research Center.

“Silvopasture is an agroforestry practice that combines the production of trees with an understory component of forage for livestock,” said Jason Grogan, research associate with the Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture. 

Grogan explained that the system provides myriad benefits, including soil protection, carbon sequestration and improved weight gain in cattle during the hot summer months, as well as overall efficiency in land utilization.

The combination of long-term income from timber sales along with annual income from livestock production can be economically beneficial to producers — especially those with relatively small acreage tracts.

The demonstration area is unique in that it will provide landowners with insight into transitioning to a silvopasture system from a heavily forested area, as well as from bare pastureland. 

Currently, Grogan is overseeing the thinning of a dense pine plantation to create open rows in which native grasses will be planted for livestock forage. In an adjacent area without trees, brush will be cleared to allow for the planting of native grasses and loblolly pines.

Grogan said pines will be planted in groups of three rows with a 30-foot gap between each grouping. In addition to space for grazing, this gap also will allow hay to be baled.

“The area we’re converting from bare pasture to silvopasture will have to remain free of livestock for about three years until the pine trees are large enough to not be damaged by livestock,” Grogan said.

Although the area will heavily focus on demonstration and outreach, Grogan said there will be opportunities for research.

“We’re hoping to look at the efficiency of using goats to control woody vines and vegetation rather than herbicide when converting a forest to silvopasture,” Grogan said.

Landowners interested in learning more about this agricultural system won’t be the only beneficiaries of the new demonstration area — the SFA cattle herd also will graze there.

A public field day is tentatively scheduled for January. For more information on silvopasture or the demonstration area, contact Grogan at (936) 468-5588 or jgrogan@sfasu.edu.

There were no new cases reported over the weekend. There were 5 recoveries reported and 3 more ‘lost to follow” reported over the weekend.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

214 Cumulative cases

-103 recovered

-6 deaths

=105 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 214 cumulative cases,  35 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…156                                                      1-20…..12             

75974…21                                                        21-40....67

75975…17                                                        41-60…77               4

75973…12                                                        61-80…38               2

75954…8                                                          81-100...15

                                                                       Unknown...5

Huxley Helping Hands will have a Drive Thru Food pantry on Saturday, June 13   9am- until gone at Hillcrest Baptist Church , Center TX.  Only 1 box per household. Please form a single line & remain in your vehicle at all times. Please have a space for the volunteers to put box In vehicle . 

Governor Greg Abbott today held a press conference in Dallas where he provided an update on Texas' response to protest violence across the state. In his remarks, the Governor called for swift justice in the case of George Floyd’s death, and discussed the ways Texas is working with local law enforcement to maintain order and uphold public safety so that peaceful protestors can continue to make their voices heard. 

"What happened to George Floyd was a horrific act of police brutality, and I join the millions of American who seek swift justice," said Governor Abbott. "George Floyd's death has touched every corner of our country, and people are rightfully angry. The beautiful thing about America is that every person has the right to make their voices heard and protest against injustice. However, violence and vandalism are never the answer, and they have no place in the Lone Star State. It is essential that we end the violence, vandalism, and looting that we have seen. But restoring calm in our communities does not end with this task—our work will not end until justice, fairness, and equality become reality in every part of our state. Texas is up to this task, because Texans can overcome any challenge. We will seize this moment to bridge the divides that exist in our state so that we can keep Texas the greatest state in America." 

To end the violence, vandalism, and looting experienced across the state, the Governor has deployed DPS officers and Texas National Guardsmen to several cities in Texas—including 1,000 DPS officers and hundreds of Guardsmen to the Dallas-Fort Worth region. They are working alongside federal partners from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to stop the violence and protect those protesting peacefully. The Governor also noted that the state is working with four United States Attorneys in Texas to ensure that individuals coming from across state lines to hijack peaceful protests with violence will be subject to federal prosecution. 

The Governor was joined by Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price, Dallas Police Chief Renee Hall, Fort Worth Police Chief Ed Kraus, Major General Tracy Norris of the Texas National Guard, and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Colonel Steve McCraw. Prior to the press conference, the Governor participated in a briefing with these leaders.

Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will provide approximately $177 million in emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits for the month of June in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. HHSC received federal approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to extend the maximum, allowable amount of SNAP benefits to recipients based on family size.

"As we continue the process of safely and strategically opening Texas for business, we are committed to ensuring families across the state have access to nutritious food," said Governor Abbott. "This extension of emergency benefits will help Texans in need provide for their families while our state continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic."

"This extension helps ensure those who need it most are able to continue providing nutritious food for their families and maintain their health," said Texas HHS Access and Eligibility Services Deputy Executive Commissioner Wayne Salter. "We’ll continue to be flexible in our response to this pandemic to make sure Texans can access the services they need as this situation evolves."

More than 900,000 SNAP households will see the additional amount on their Lone Star Card by June 12. The emergency June allotments are in addition to the $414.7 million in benefits previously provided to Texans in April and May.

Administered by HHSC, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1.4 million eligible low-income families and individuals in Texas.

Texans in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP and Medicaid, at YourTexasBenefits.com or use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to manage their benefits.

Webster Parish – On June 6, 2020, shortly before 10:00 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a fatal crash on U.S. Highway 80 near Goodwill Road. This crash claimed the life of a Minden man.       

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2004 Toyota 4runner, driven by 78-year-old Thomas Roton, was traveling east on U.S. Highway 80. For reasons still under investigation, Roton’s vehicle entered a construction zone where it struck a piece of heavy machinery. 

Roton, who was unrestrained, sustained life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at a local hospital. A toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.    

Buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself in a crash.  Failure to take a few seconds to buckle up can have devastating consequences.  Louisiana law requires every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained day or night.

In 2020, Troop G has investigated nine fatal crashes resulting in nine deaths. 

Notice is hereby given that a Regular meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 10th day of June, 2020 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 May 6, 2020 Special meeting, May 6, 2020 Workshop, May 13, 2020 Regular meeting, May 20, 2020 Special meeting, May 26, 2020 Special meeting, of the Shelby County Commissioner’s Court.

2.    Approve and pay weekly expenses.

3.    Approve current payroll.

4.    Approve Officers Report.

5.    Public Comments on Agenda item.

6.    Ann Blackwell to give update of the CyberSecurity training.

7.    Discuss and possibly approve the request that Shelby County abandon the portion of County Road 1546 that runs across the H.L.Bryce Family Farm, LLC.

8.    Discuss and possibly take action on HAVA (Help America Vote Act) Grant Resolution regarding safe election procedures and practices for County Elections.

9.    Discuss and possibly take action on a Resolution for the CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund allowing application for funds allocated for Shelby County.

10.    Discuss and possibly approve the Master Software License and Services Agreement with KNOWink, LLC for election poll books.

11.    Adjourn.

Here are the COVID-19 counts.  

DeSoto Parish 262

Nacogdoches County 298

Shelby County 214

Panola County 213

San Augustine County 44

Shelby County Outreach Ministries will be closing ALL programs for the week of June 8 – June 12 with the exception of the Helping Hands Outreach Center. Helping Hands will be open only on Friday, June 12th from 10-2 in order to help clients. The senior citizens that are currently being served through our senior programs have received extra meals that will cover them through the next 2 weeks. They will also receive calls to confirm that they are safe, and all is going well.

If you are scheduled to receive an emergency food box during this week, please come to the Helping Hands Outreach Center on Friday, June 12th to receive it between the hours of 10-2.  Our lobby is closed to the public. Food Boxes are distributed by Drive-Thru ONLY. Please be prepared to open your trunk of the car and stay in your vehicle. Keep windows rolled up and show ID through the glass. For information, please call us at 936-598-4990.  Thank you.  

Timpson and our community recognize our new business Timpson Nutrition. Timpson Nutrition is located on the square at 146 Park Plaza and has been open since the first of March. This Nutrition store offers Herbalife and supplements that can help you lose the weight and gain the energy. Their goal is to help and educate customers and our community about eating healthier and maintaining a healthy life style. They serve Teas Shakes that are sugar free and helps as a meal replacement to keep you full for 7 hours. We invite you to stop by and see what they have. It’s a healthy visit that will be tasteful and enjoyable

Come by Friday, June 5th at 11 am to join The Timpson Area Chamber of Commerce welcoming this asset to our community. We will have a ribbon cutting and welcome Shaneeta Rhodes and her team as our newest downtown business.

On June 4th, 2020 at 2 p.m. in Center, Texas at the Ivan Smith Furniture parking lot line up for the parade will start at 1:45 p.m. the event was hosted by Shelby Savings Bank in conjunction with Allegiance Mobile Health and other local businesses and they drove by the assisted living facilities and nursing homes in town to bring cheer to the residents that could really use it right now during these difficult times.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – In a world where COVID-19 continuously throws obstacles in the way of plans and progress, the School of Theatre at Stephen F. Austin State University is moving forward in presenting its annual SummerStage Festival in a new and innovative way.

The play choice has been changed from the original lineup, and its delivery has been adapted as an online version. But as always in live theater, the show must, and will, go on in live, online performances at 7:30 p.m. June 30 through July 2 and in a recorded version the following three days. Online access can be purchased through the College of Fine Arts Box Office.

Changes in work structures this past spring brought on by the coronavirus pandemic made it difficult to get in touch with publishing houses in order to obtain rights, or permission, to perform copyrighted plays. As a result, the School of Theatre decided to present a show in the Public Domain, and SFA Assistant Professor of Theatre Slade Billew decided on William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” which he described as “one of my favorite plays.”

“It also seems timely,” said Billew, who is the play’s director. “‘The Tempest’ is a story of isolation and loss, but it is also about the power of life to continue and of humanity to recover. In the beautiful way that Shakespeare does, the script blends tragedy, comedy, songs and magic.”

Although “The Tempest” is a full-length play, Billew has cut it to approximately 90 minutes. The play will be “created” entirely over the internet, with rehearsals conducted via Zoom, and designers conceiving and creating work in their own personal spaces.

Billew and his colleagues are exploring existing and new platforms of delivery – specifically ones that will allow individual access through a donation to the School of Theatre as a means of recuperating much-needed funding that was lost by the cancellation of live in-person SummerStage performances.

“We are, of course, all still figuring this out, so there are a few possibilities,” Billew said. “We are going to perform the piece live online three times. Then, a recording that people can ‘rent’ will be available. It will likely be accessed through YouTube. Right now we are working with Zoom, but I have also been in conversations with LaMaMa/Culture Hub in New York who have developed a software called Live Lab specifically for this kind of work. They are planning to release Live Lab for beta testing in early June, so we are going to test it out.”

Theatre faculty is working with the Fine Arts Box Office to give audiences online access to the show through a donation. Once donations/purchases are made, the School of Theatre will contact the purchaser by email three hours before the 7:30 p.m. performance time to provide link access.

SFA discovered in presenting its Festival of New American Plays in a free format this past April that audiences wanted a mechanism by which to donate to the School of Theatre in support of performance art.

“This really highlights the value our audiences place on the work of not only the students but also the faculty/staff who are integral to our success,” said Cleo House Jr., director of the School of Theatre. As a result, audience members will have an opportunity to contribute at different levels. The minimum level is $5 with the maximum level being $25.

“Regardless of the level, you’ll get access to the performance on a selected night,” House explained. “We will have three nights of live performance, and, in an effort to be flexible, the remaining nights will be a recorded version of one of the previous live nights. We are so happy that audiences still want to make a financial impact during this time. Our income has been affected by the pandemic, like so many others. Our theatre productions are funded almost 100% by ticket revenue. Donations of any kind are always appreciated.”

Another lesson learned from the play festival was that there is an audience for these types of online performances, House said. “Audiences still want to support the School of Theatre and see our talented students perform live,” he said. “A performance likes this breaks up the monotony of watching the various streaming services that are so popular now. We actually were able to host larger audiences with our play festival than in the past, thanks to not having the limitations of brick and mortar.”

There is a long tradition in the theatre of “the show must go on.” During Shakespeare's life when the London theatres were shut down due to plague, the companies adapted by touring the countryside.

“In this time when many aspects of American life are shut down, we are learning how to keep the show going in the face of whatever the world throws at us,” Billew said. “We are deeply committed to making this a unique piece of online performance.”

The online performance of “The Tempest” speaks not only to the adaptability of theatre but to the commitment that the School of Theatre has to its students and the community, House said. “It speaks to our students’ desire to embrace technology and to their strong commitment to the mantra ‘the show must go on.’”

Live streaming performances are at 7:30 p.m. June 30, July 1 and July 2. Sales end at 1 p.m. for that day’s performance; links will be emailed after 4:30 p.m. The recorded performance will be available July 3 though 5 with daily access purchase required. To purchase online access, visit boxoffice.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 for online purchasing questions. For more information about the School of Theatre, visit theatre.sfasu.edu.

Cutline: The SFA School of Theatre will present William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” virtually in a live stream June 30 through July 2 and in a recorded version July 3 through 5. Access purchase is required for viewing: boxoffice.sfasu.edu.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – A new director of the Music Preparatory Division of the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music is taking the music outreach program in a new and exciting direction.

Alba Madrid, an adjunct faculty member in the SFA School of Music, began training recently as the new director and took over as head of the program on June 1.

“I am excited to embark on a new journey in my professional career as the director of an institution that has the potential to grow and become an integral part of the community,” Madrid said.

A new strategy is in place to “heavily recruit” for the many programs offered in Music Prep, such as the Suzuki violin program, guitar lessons, youth orchestra and others, including the well-established piano program for youth and adults, Madrid said.

“We would like to see more collaboration between the university and Music Preparatory Division by giving SFA students an opportunity to receive valuable field experience in music education,” she said. “We are also working very hard to expand our scholarship funds to help families that have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. The scholarship funds will be expanded through grants, donations and sponsorships.”

Despite the one-on-one teaching restrictions brought on by COVID-19, Music Prep faculty members are teaching summer lessons remotely, meeting with students weekly via Zoom, Facetime and Skype, as well as through recorded instructional videos for students to use during their daily practice at home, Madrid explained. Students also have the option to receive an in-person lesson if both the teacher and the student agree to it, and if they all follow social-distancing guidelines, wear masks and keep their hands sanitized.

“We recently had our first live virtual recitals where we featured our Music Preparatory students and the Piney Woods Youth Orchestra,” she said. “It was a huge success, and we hope to do another virtual recital in August.”

Madrid brings a wealth of music education experience to the community outreach program, according to Dr. Gary Wurtz, director of the School of Music.

“Upon learning that we would need to find a new director of the Music Preparatory Division, I hoped that we could find someone here in our community with the right expertise, experience and vision to take the program to greater levels of success,” Wurtz said. “We were blessed to have Ms. Madrid, with her years of public school teaching and professional performing experience, available and willing to take on the role. This is a good time for Music Prep.”

At SFA, Madrid teaches violin and viola applied lessons, a course of string methods and secondary music education and has coached chamber music ensembles. For the past year, she has been the Piney Woods Youth Orchestra director and was a Music Prep faculty member.

Before moving to Nacogdoches, she held the position of head orchestra director at Nikki Rowe High School in McAllen and assistant orchestra director at Economedes High School in Edinburg. She also taught in the Gulfport School District and Houston Independent School District both as a music teacher and orchestra director.

An active performer, Madrid is a member of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra and Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, and she is principal second violin with the Longview Symphony Orchestra. Prior to moving to Nacogdoches, she performed with Sinfonia da Camera, Peoria Symphony Orchestra, Heartland Festival Orchestra, Mobile Symphony Orchestra, Pensacola Symphony Orchestra and the Valley Symphony Orchestra, where she held the position of principal second violin and performed in the orchestra’s chamber music series.

Summer registration for Music Prep flex lessons is still underway, and online registration can be accessed at music.sfasu.edu/outreach.

A new fall initiative includes establishing a pilot strings project in which students from all Nacogdoches County public school districts and some from surrounding areas will participate.

“A grant is being written now to help support this effort,” Madrid said. “Students will have the opportunity to learn to play a string instrument in a group setting guided by a master teacher along with three SFA music students. Currently, students in the public school system only have the option to participate in choir or band. We hope this new strings project will help increase the interest and participation of string education in the local schools.

“I am hopeful about the future of Music Prep, and I will work very hard to create opportunities to reach as many students as possible and to have more community exposure,” Madrid said.

Music Prep summer office hours are from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Madrid can also be reached via email at madrida@sfasu.edu or musicprep@sfasu.edu or by phone at (936) 468-1291. Parents can also find program information on Facebook and Instagram.

No new cases reported yesterday. 3 recoveries and 5 “lost to follow” reported.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

214 Cumulative cases

-98 recovered

-6 deaths

=110ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 214 cumulative cases,  33 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIPCODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…156                                                      1-20…..12              

75974…21                                                        21-40....67

75975…17                                                        41-60…77               4

75973…12                                                        61-80…38               2

75954…8                                                          81-100...15

                                                                       Unknown...5

Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center will be set up at the Center Police Dept on Friday, June 26th. 11:30 am - 4:00 pm. Blood supply is at an All time low, and donations are seriously needed at this time! Contact Amy at the CPD, or go to www.giveblood.org to preregister. There will be 2 donor coaches available, but Due to COVID-19, only 1 donor on the coach at time. Mask are requested, but will be available if you do not have one. All stations will be cleaned and sanitized between donors. Average time of 15 min per donor.

All persons who attempt to donate will get a Free T-Shirt!

Please come help save lives!! 1 donor can save 3 Lives!

Growing up in East Texas in the 1940s kept me pretty well sheltered from the problems of the large cities like Houston and Dallas.  “Naive” might be a more descriptive word for me during those days. But occasionally, I would venture into uncharted waters.

My grandfather, Big Daddy to all the grandkids, lived approximately one hundred yards from our home.  One of his vices was that he chewed tobacco – Day’s Work, to be exact, although he was known to take a chew of Beechnut on occasion.  He always had a “plug” of Day’s Work around his house somewhere.  I had observed how he would take his sharp pocket knife, slice off a sliver of tobacco, and place it between his cheek and gums.  Wow, to a boy of five or six that was really something – especially when he spit.  He would sit on the front porch, and he could spit for distance and accuracy.  I swear that he could hit a tumblebug dead-center ten feet away from the porch.  That takes concentration and practice, with maybe a little luck thrown in.

One summer day I wandered down to Big Daddy’s house to see what I could get into.  No one was at home, so I was leaving.  But, something on the mantel caught my eye as I walked by.  There it was, beckoning me, tempting me – his plug of Day’s Work chewing tobacco right there on the mantle.  I figured that he had left it there for me to try out.

Making sure that no one was at home; I found a knife and cut off a small sliver of tobacco.  It smelled very good to me – sweet and savory.  I put the knife back and headed out the back door to the cover of the nearby woods.  Finding a good spot behind some bushes, I put the plug of tobacco in my mouth, then between my cheek and gum.  Nice fit, nice sweet taste – this was really good stuff.  No wonder my grandfather used it regularly.

In my haste to carry out my forbidden deed, I forgot that you do NOT swallow the juice.  So, I chewed and swallowed for what seemed a long time.  Then, right in the middle of my chewing, I felt a wave of sickness come over me.  I had been lying on my back watching the clouds float by, but suddenly they seemed to be spinning around in the sky.  No question about it, I was getting sick.  I sat up and pondered what would Big Daddy do?  Then I remembered – spit it out.  I was not concerned with distance or accuracy this time, I just spit it all out.

Now I was really feeling sick to my stomach.  It was time to head home and see if my mother had some magic elixir, even if it meant confessing what I had done.  By the time I reached my back door, I could hardly walk.  I headed for the kitchen table and crawled under it in a fetal position

My mother came in, felt my brow, sniffed once, and diagnosed me correctly.  I could hear her rummaging in the medicine cabinet, and I knew what she was getting for me - “Oh no…not the dreaded castor oil.” She knelt down beside me with a large tablespoon of the foul-tasting liquid.  “Here, son, swallow this and don’t give me any backtalk.  In fact, I do believe your condition calls for TWO tablespoons.”

The kids of today don’t know what they have missed.  Castor oil was the 1940s penicillin.  It cured everything, provided you could force it down your gullet, and then keep it down.  Every first day of spring we kids needed “worming”, and a big dose of castor oil was just what the doctor ordered. The only thing I ever found that would sort of mask its taste was a root beer chaser.  I quickly recovered from my self-induced sickness, and mother never questioned me about the incident.

It seems to me that I never developed a taste for chewing tobacco again.  Many of my high school friends chewed Beechnut, but I always just said “no”.  I suppose it was all because of Day’s Work and an overdose of castor oil.

“DAY’S  WORK”

BY: NEAL MURPHY

107 HEMLOCK STREET
PO BOX 511
SAN AUGUSTINE, TX 75972
936-275-9033
Cell: 936-275-6986
Email: humptydumpty1940@gmail.com

712 Words

Blood supply is at an All-time Low, and donations are seriously needed at this time! Contact Amy at the CPD, or go to www.giveblood.org to preregister. There will be 2 donor coaches available, but Due to COVID-19, only 1 donor on the coach at time. Mask are requested, but will be available if you do not have one. All stations will be cleaned and sanitized between donors. All persons who attempt to donate will get a Free T-Shirt!

Please come help save lives!! 1 donor can save 3 Lives!

You will be able to access the JHS graduation here!  It will route you to our Facebook page where the live stream can be viewed during the ceremony. 

(Longview, Texas)—LeTourneau University held this spring the inaugural “LETU Writes: A High School Writing Contest” for high school students and is pleased to announce the winners.

This first year, the new writing contest received more than 30 submissions in categories for fiction writing and poetry writing.  High school writers participating were from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. The annual prize was promoted in schools and through the LETU website, www.letu.edu, where future participants will be able to find information about next year’s contest when it is posted in the fall.

“We were excited to receive so many short story and poetry submissions from high school writers in this region,” said Aaron Brown, an award-winning poet, contest judge and director LETU’s Student Writing Center. “It was a difficult contest to judge, but very rewarding to see the imagination and skill of young writers. We look forward to running the contest again next year.”

All first-place winners in each genre will receive a $100 gift card award in lieu of participating in the East Texas Writer’s Festival, which originally had been scheduled for this summer on the LETU campus, but which had to be canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In Fiction writing, David Yang of Plano, Texas won first place for his entry titled “Two Minutes and Three Seconds” about a competitive swim meet.

“David's short story takes a competitive swim meet and electrifies the experience by slowing down time with his talented description,” Brown said. “The story quickly becomes so much larger than a competition—as we learn the drive and toil it takes for an athlete to thrive.”

Two entries received honorable mention: “Dear John Aaron” by Caleb Cracknell of Beaumont, Texas, and “The Dream” by Bridget Cunningham of Longview, Texas.

In the Poetry competition, Jazzmin Garcia of San Antonio, Texas, won first place for her entry titled “Trailer Parks” about a lonely woman befriended.

“Jazzmin’s poem demonstrates all the successful elements of a poem—her work is grounded with descriptive images, a compelling narrative, and a sense of that something has been lost as the narrative unfolds,” Brown said. “In her poem, Jazzmin tells the story of a woman who is ignored, abused, but also befriended in a community all too familiar with struggle.”

Two entries received honorable mention: “Stained Morning” by Sabine Wetterling of Austin, Texas, and “You are the Sun to my Moon” by Rachel Miranda of San Antonio, Texas.

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 wide range of disciplines online and at LETU’s 156-acre residential campus in Longview, Texas, located 120 miles east of Dallas and 60 miles west of Shreveport, Louisiana. For additional information, visit www.letu.edu.

The TIMPSON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE recognizes Timpson Quick Stop and Triple J Feed for receiving the Covid-19 supplemental fund for local businesses.

We congratulate both Timpson Quick Stop and Triple J Feed for receiving the Timpson Chamber of Commerce Covid-19 small business supplemental fund.  Each of these businesses applied and received $500.00 to help with any expenses they encountered during this pandemic. The Chamber appreciates the hard work these, and all our businesses do to serve our town and community.

This project was intended to help our businesses stay open during the pandemic. Small businesses are the foundation of our community and our economy, employing our citizens, keeping our neighborhood running and making our town feel like home. Timpson Area Chamber of Commerce has also waived all membership dues for 2020. All businesses will be receiving new information forms shortly and information about a plan to keep Timpson on the map. We wish to thank every business in our area and only wish the best for each business.

Timpson Area Chamber of Commerce also thanks the entire community for the support that is shown for our local businesses. Without consumers no business would be able to operate. Therefore, it’s up to our community to keep our local businesses open.

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

214 Cumulative cases

-96 recovered

-6 deaths

=112 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 214 cumulative cases,  28 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIPCODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…156                                                      1-20…..12              

75974…21                                                        21-40....67

75975…17                                                        41-60…77               4

75973…12                                                        61-80…38                2

75954…8                                                          81-100...15

                                                                       Unknown...5

A regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Shelbyville Independent School District will be held on Monday, June 8, 2020, beginning at 12:00 noon, in the Cafetorium of the Shelbyville Independent School District at 343 FM 417 West, Shelbyville, Texas.

The subjects to be discussed or considered or upon which any formal action may be taken are listed below. Items do not have to be taken in the same order as shown on this meeting notice. Unless removed from the consent agenda, items identified within the consent agenda will be acted on at one time. 

1.    Call to order
2.    Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
3.    Open forum
4.    Consent agenda 
a.    Minutes of the May 11, 2020, meeting of the board
b.    Monthly financial reports
5.    Consider for approval
a.   Budget Amendments
6.    Principals’/Directors’ Reports
7.    Superintendent’s Reports
a.    High School Graduation Ceremony
b.    School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) Report
c.    Summer School Work and Facilities Update 
d.    Articles of Interest
e.    General Updates
8.    Executive Session
a.    Superintendent Evaluation & Deliberation on Contract
b.    Resignations/Employment
c.    Personnel
9.     Adjournment

Parade tomorrow June 4th, 2020 at 2 p.m. in Center, Texas at the Ivan Smith Furniture parking lot line up for the parade will start at 1:45 p.m. and a map of the route will be given out the event will be hosted by Shelby Savings Bank in conjunction with Allegiance Mobile Health and other local businesses and they will be driving by the assisted living facilities and nursing homes in town to bring cheer to the residents that could really use it right now during these difficult times.

.

In addition to the “Virtual Graduation” that was held on May 22, 2020, Shelbyville High School’s Class of 2020 will be participating in an outdoor graduation ceremony at Dragon Stadium on Friday, June 26th, at 7 p.m.  Entrance to the stadium for the ceremony will by ticket only (each graduate will be issued ten tickets for family and guests).  Social distancing and safety protocols will be followed…Dragon Pride!

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

208 Cumulative cases

-87 recovered

-6 deaths

=115 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 208 cumulative cases,  22 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…151                                                      1-20…..12             

75974…21                                                        21-40....63

75975…17                                                        41-60…75                4

75973…11                                                        61-80…38                2

75954…8                                                           81-100...15

                                                                       Unknown...5

After several months of investigation by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Devail Laree Renshaw, 51, was taken into custody June 2, 2020 on a warrant for the charge of Murder (F-1). Renshaw was taken into custody in the Joaquin area by Constable Roy Cheatwood.

Renshaw was arrested in connection with the death of Harold Glyne Glaze of Mansfield that occurred in September 2019. Glaze was found unresponsive at the home of Renshaw. After preliminary autopsy results were received, the case was ruled as a homicide.

Renshaw was previously arrested on two counts of Tampering with Physical Evidence in November 2019 in connection with this case.

Renshaw is currently being held at the Shelby County Jail on a one million dollar bond.

LUFKIN – The Lufkin District is continuing with many construction and maintenance projects throughout its nine-county district, with three major construction projects underway and progressing well as weather permits. These projects include:

US 69 South: Construction on US 69 south of Huntington is well into the construction phase. The $71.6 million project will widen US 69 from two lanes to a divided rural four-lane highway from FM 844 to FM 1270. Johnson Brothers, Roanoke, TX is serving as contractor.

Crews are currently constructing the overpass at SH 63 in Zavalla with bridge pours scheduled at entry/exit ramps. Dirt work also continues for the new southbound lanes from FM 844 to BW Horton Road. Hot mix is being placed on newly constructed northbound turn lanes between BW Horton Road and Ozias Road, and construction of new northbound lanes will continue between Barge Road and SH 63. This project began in July 2018 and is scheduled to be completed in 2022.

Work is also continuing from FM 1270 to the Jasper County line that will continue the construction of a four-lane divided highway. Drewery Construction Co., Nacogdoches TX, is serving as contractor for the $37.5 million project that is scheduled to complete in early 2023. Current work includes clearing south of Earnest Smith Road and dirt and structure work for the new northbound lanes between FM 1270 and Chambers Road.

These projects will provide for better traffic flow and enhanced connectivity between Beaumont and Lufkin.

US 59/Diboll Relief Route: Crews are currently working to clear property for the new roadway located on the east side of Diboll. Current work includes logging operations and utility relocations. Work on the $140.9 million relief route began In April and is expected to be completed in 2025.

Sacyr Construction USA LLC, Miami, FL is serving as contractor for the project that will extend from FM 2108 to 1.15 miles south of White Oak Creek. The relief route will meet interstate design standards and serve as the primary evacuation route and will move vehicular traffic along the US 59 corridor.

US 59/SL 224: The US 59/SL 224 construction project began in 2019 and is progressing well with the construction of new main lanes to the east of current main lanes along US 59. Earthwork east of US 59 is in progress and the first seven spans of bridge deck on the northbound overpass has been completed. Crews are beginning the southbound overpass bridge decks this week. In coming weeks, both overpass bridge decks will be constructed up to the last span before crossing over existing US 59. Drill shaft foundations for bridges will be placed in multiple locations and will include drill shaft foundations for the overpass around Spradley Street. Utilities are being placed on the south end of the project with intermittent shoulder closures for utility work. 

Longview Bridge and Road, Longview, TX is serving as contractor for the project that is scheduled to be completed in 2022. The work will include the construction of overpasses at Spradley Street, existing US 59 and Old Lufkin Road and construction of frontage roads for SL 224 between SH 7 and BU 59. The project was designed to meet interstate standards and extends from SH 7 West on SL 224 to 1.2 miles south of Spradley Street on US 59.

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

Credit Recovery Summer registration forms are available at the Center High School office beginning today.  Summer school will begin Monday June 8, 2020 and end July 3, 2020.

 
Only core subjects will be offered virtually using Edgenuity.  When arriving to pick up a form, call the office at 936-598-6173 and we will bring it out to you. 

Summer Worker Needed
06/02/2020

Mr. Mark Bonner is looking for a student worker for the summer.  In order to be eligible, students must be 16 years old.  Please contact the administration office if you are interested.

Mid-week Bible study resumes at the Center Church of Christ Wednesday, June 10 at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. Social distancing practices per state guidelines remain in effect for the safety of everyone in attendance.

Regular Sunday morning worship in one service resumed May 17 at 10:45 following eight weeks of meeting in groups of 10 or less for multiple shortened services. State recommended social distancing and non-contact practices have been followed in each service since March 22 and will continue to be followed allowing everyone who desires the opportunity to worship as New Testament Christians did in Acts chapter 20 to participate.

The Center Church of Christ is located at 110 Hurst Street in Center. Tim Perkins is the minister. For more information call 936-598-2945. 

CENTER, Texas (June 2, 2020) – City officials are excited to open the newly finished corner of San Augustine Street and Austin Street to traffic and parking.

“We are excited that the Streetscape project has advanced to the point that we can open this first intersection to traffic,” said Mayor David Chadwick.

Parking is now available on both streets and the inside corner of the square.

On June 2nd, 2020 there was a peaceful protest held at the Center Walmart parking lot. Protesters gathered in the sweltering heat to stand for justice for all, black lives matter, and all lives matter.

The protesters arrived around 3 p.m. and the protest will continue till around 6 p.m. 

Here are the COVID-19 counts.  

DeSoto Parish 249

Nacogdoches County 288

Shelby County 204

Panola County 180

San Augustine County 38

Notice is hereby given that on the 4th day of June 2020 the Board of Trustees of the Joaquin School District will hold a special meeting at 5:00 p.m., at the Administration building, Joaquin, Texas. The subjects to be discussed are listed on the agenda attached to and made a part of this Notice. If, during the course of the meeting covered by this Notice, the Board of Trustees should determine that a closed session of the Board of Trustees is required, then such closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas Government Code, Section 551.001 et seq., Texas Education Code, will be held by the School Board at the date, may conveniently meet in such closed session concerning any and all purposes permitted by the Act, including, but not limited to the following sections and purposes:

AGENDA FOR June 4, 2020
1. Roll call, establishment of quorum, call to order – Joaquin ISD may have member(s) via video conference
call – Texas Government Code Section 551.127 (See Attached Code)
2. Invocation and Pledges of Allegiance
3. Audience Participation – In accordance with Joaquin ISD Policy BED Local no presentation shall exceed five
minutes. Delegations of more than five persons shall appoint one person to present their views before
the Board.
4. Report/Information items:
 4.1 Discuss City Marshal position
 4.2 Report on Elementary Playground Project
 4.3 Report on Intersessional Calendar
5. Agenda Items for consideration and possible action:
5.1 Approve amendment to grading policy for 2019-2020 due to Covid-19
5.2 Approve 2019-2020 Budget Amendments

6. Enter Closed Session
6.1 Enter closed session under Texas Government Codes §551.071, §551.074, §551.127,
§551.129 (See Attached Code)
6.1.1 Resignations, hiring, and Contracts

7. Return to Open Session - Agenda Items for consideration and possible action:
 7.1 Consideration and Board Action, if any, authorize:
 7.1.1 Resignations, hiring, and Contracts
8. Recommendations for items to be placed on agenda for next Board meeting
9. Designation of date and time of next meetings:
10. Adjournment

On May 31st, DSHS reported 4 new confirmed cases for Shelby County that were later discovered, had previously  been reported. So those 4 cases have been subtracted. 

On Monday evening June 1st, DSHS reported 3 new confirmed cases along with 3 more recoveries. All of the numbers below reflect the changes in the case counts and the demographic information. 

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

204 Cumulative cases

-87 recovered

-6 deaths

=111 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 204 cumulative cases,  22 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS:  

75935…148                                                      1-20…..12        

75974…20                                                        21-40....62

75975…17                                                        41-60…74            4

75973…11                                                        61-80…38            2

75954…8.                                                         81-100...13

                                                                          Unknown...5

Governor Greg Abbott, along with all four United States Attorneys in Texas, announced that individuals who come to Texas from out of state to engage in looting, violence, or other destructive acts in violation of federal law will be subject to federal prosecution. Anyone who is arrested and charged with such offenses will be transferred to federal custody. The United States Attorneys will be working with local prosecutors and law enforcement officials to aggressively identify crimes that violate federal law. The four United States Attorneys joining this announcement are: John F. Bash, Erin Nealy Cox, Stephen J. Cox, and Ryan K. Patrick.

"Texans must be able to exercise their First Amendment rights without fear of having agitators, including those coming from out-of-state, hijack their peaceful protest," said Governor Abbott and the U.S. Attorneys. "Today’s announcement will ensure there are harsh consequences for those breaking the law and that they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

Notice is hereby given that on the 4th day of June 2020 the Board of Trustees of the Joaquin School District will hold a special meeting at 5:00 p.m., at the Administration building, Joaquin, Texas. The subjects to be discussed are listed on the agenda attached to and made a part of this Notice. If, during the course of the meeting covered by this Notice, the Board of Trustees should determine that a closed session of the Board of Trustees is required, then such closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas Government Code, Section 551.001 et seq., Texas Education Code, will be held by the School Board at the date, may conveniently meet in such closed session concerning any and all purposes permitted by the Act, including, but not limited to the following sections and purposes:

AGENDA FOR June 4, 2020
1. Roll call, establishment of quorum, call to order – Joaquin ISD may have member(s) via video conference
call – Texas Government Code Section 551.127 (See Attached Code)
2. Invocation and Pledges of Allegiance
3. Audience Participation – In accordance with Joaquin ISD Policy BED Local no presentation shall exceed five
minutes. Delegations of more than five persons shall appoint one person to present their views before
the Board.
4. Report/Information items:
 4.1 Discuss City Marshal position
 4.2 Report on Elementary Playground Project
 4.3 Report on Intersessional Calendar
5. Agenda Items for consideration and possible action:
5.1 Approve amendment to grading policy for 2019-2020 due to Covid-19
5.2 Approve 2019-2020 Budget Amendments

6. Enter Closed Session
6.1 Enter closed session under Texas Government Codes §551.071, §551.074, §551.127,
§551.129 (See Attached Code)
6.1.1 Resignations, hiring, and Contracts

7. Return to Open Session - Agenda Items for consideration and possible action:
 7.1 Consideration and Board Action, if any, authorize:
 7.1.1 Resignations, hiring, and Contracts
8. Recommendations for items to be placed on agenda for next Board meeting
9. Designation of date and time of next meetings:
10. Adjournment

High School Graduation will take place on Friday, June 05, 2020, at 8:00 pm on the Ram Football Field. Each senior participating in the ceremony will be given ten (10) tickets for family/friends to attend. This includes two (2) tickets for parents/guardians to accompany the graduate and be seated on the field, and eight (8) tickets for spectators in the stands while practicing safe social distancing. The ceremony is not open to the public. Tickets are required to be admitted. This is in accordance with state and local mandates due to COVID-19 occupancy restrictions. The ceremony will be live streamed for the public with a link provided on the Joaquin ISD Webpage and Facebook page. We look forward to celebrating and honoring our high school graduates!  

In an effort to accommodate those who are unable to attend the CHS graduation event, the CISD technology department will be broadcasting the event on YouTube as we have done for school board meetings in the recent past.

The broadcast can be viewed live on YouTube at the following URL:

https://youtu.be/jy4nTqVY3b8

Center High School graduation is on June 1 at 7 p.m. Students are limited to 5 tickets. The graduation protocol can be found in the attached document. 

Here are the COVID-19 counts.  

DeSoto Parish 247

Nacogdoches County 287

Shelby County 205

Panola County 179

San Augustine County 38

COVID-19 Cases as reported to us by DSHS:

205 Cumulative cases

-84 recovered

-6 deaths

=115 ACTIVE CASES

**DSHS also reports that of the 205 cumulative cases,  22 of those cases are “lost to follow”…meaning, DSHS has not been able to contact them to follow up on their recovery.

CUMULATIVE CASES BY ZIP CODE & AGE:

ZIP CODE:                                                         AGES:             DEATHS: 

75935…148                                                      1-20…..11             

75974…19                                                        21-40....63

75975…18                                                        41-60…76                4

75973…11                                                        61-80…37                2

75954…9                                                          81-100...13

                                                                       Unknown...5

Governor Greg Abbott has activated the Texas National Guard in response to  protest violence throughout the state. The Governor released the following statement:

"Texans have every right to exercise their first amendment rights, but violence and looting will not be tolerated."

Governor Greg Abbott declared a State of Disaster for all Texas counties in the midst of violent protests that endanger public safety and threaten property loss and damage. Under this declaration, the Governor has the ability to designate federal agents to serve as Texas Peace Officers. 

"Every Texan and every American has the right to protest and I encourage all Texans to exercise their First Amendment rights," said Governor Abbott.  "However, violence against others and the destruction of property is unacceptable and counterproductive. As protests have turned violent in various areas across the state, it is crucial that we maintain order, uphold public safety, and protect against property damage or loss. By authorizing additional federal agents to serve as Texas Peace Officers we will help protect people’s safety while ensuring that peaceful protesters can continue to make their voices heard."

Governor Greg Abbott surged substantial statewide resources to cities throughout Texas in response to escalating protest violence. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has also deployed tactical teams to assist state and local law enforcement. The Governor has ordered thousands more troopers to these cities and more than one thousand National Guard to assist the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and local law enforcement in their efforts. These efforts are in addition to the Governor’s actions yesterday when he deployed DPS troopers to Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin and activated the Texas National Guard. 

“Texans First Amendment rights are absolute and will always be protected,” said Governor Abbott. “But violence, vandalism, and looting will not be tolerated in this state and those found in violation of the law will be arrested and prosecuted.”

Joaquin High School Graduation will take place on Friday, June 05, 2020, at 8:00 pm on the Ram Football Field. Each senior participating in the ceremony will be given ten (10) tickets for family/friends to attend. This includes two (2) tickets for parents/guardians to accompany the graduate and be seated on the field, and eight (8) tickets for spectators in the stands while practicing safe social distancing. The ceremony is not open to the public.

Tickets are required to be admitted. This is in accordance with state and local mandates due to COVID-19 occupancy restrictions. The ceremony will be live streamed for the public with a link provided on the Joaquin ISD Webpage and Facebook page. We look forward to celebrating and honoring our high school graduates!  

Submitted by Terri Gray, JH/HS Principal