NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Dr. Hans Williams, dean of Stephen F. Austin State University’s Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture, was elected president of the Texas Forestry Association during the organization’s virtual meeting in October 2020.

“Dr. Williams brings a unique set of qualifications to his role as president at TFA,” said Rob Hughes, TFA executive director. “He has 27 years of experience in leading discovery and understanding about trees and silviculture as an educator. This expertise will help guide the TFA and its members during an unprecedented time.”

The association serves as the voice for the forest industry, promoting an economic, social and political climate that advances forestry in Texas through education, political action and public relations. It also serves the broad needs of forest landowners, producers and consumers with the goal of enhancing and perpetuating Texas’ forest resources.

Williams holds a doctoral degree from Auburn University with an emphasis in forest ecophysiology and seedling quality. His achievements and awards include the Kenneth Watterson Teaching Excellence Award and Kenneth Nelson Distinguished Professorship.

Dr. Hans Williams, dean of Stephen F. Austin State University’s Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture, was elected president of the Texas Forestry Association during the organization’s virtual meeting in October 2020. The association serves as the voice for the forest industry, promoting an economic, social and political climate that advances forestry in Texas through education, political action and public relations

Three games only tonight starting at 5:00 PM

JVG, VG, VB

Dear CISD families,

CISD has been allotted COVID test kits from the Texas Dept. of Emergency Management. CISD has been authorized to use these test kits by TEA. Please see the following links for additional information: 

https://tdem.texas.gov/k-12testing/

https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/health-safety-discipline/covid/covid-19-support-public-health-orders

Please be aware: CISD is able to test staff and students who meet testing criteria. CISD is NOT and WILL NOT be testing students without parental consent. If the TDEM K-12 Covid Testing Coordinator recommends testing - parents are notified,  if they choose to have a child tested, parents/guardians must be present with the child and sign a permission slip in order for the child to be tested. These tests are provided to staff and students who meet criteria free of charge. 

If you have any questions regarding the K-12 COVID-19 Testing Project available at CISD please contact Lindsay Montario, RN at 936-598-6173 x2212.

The defending National Champions kickoff the Southern Region Rodeo Circuit today in Sulphur Springs, TX at the Texas A&M Commerce Rodeo.  Coach Jeff Collins and his team or ready to get rolling as they prepare for another run at a national championship.  

The Men's Team is currently #1 in the Region, which the top two qualify for the College National Finals hosted in Casper Wyoming, June 13-19.  Panola is well represented in each event and has several cowboys trying to place in the top three in order to qualify for the CNFR in their event.  Freshmen, Kolt Dement and Kincaide Henry have been in the #1 spot in bareback riding and calf roping respectively since the first rodeo of the year.  Other ranked team members include:  Michael Womack - 2nd and Clint Franks - 8th in saddlebronc; Seth Rustin - 2nd and Gauge McBride - 7th in bullriding;  Gauge McBride - 3rd and  Isaac Ingram - 8th in bareback; Macon Murphy - 5th and Thomas Wallace - 7th in calf roping; Hazen Martin - 10th in steerwrestling; Riley Rieken -7th, Brady Blanchard and Kincaide Henry - 10th, Thomas Wallace and Jacques Trahan - 15th in team roping.

The Women's team is currently #8 in the Southern Region.  Cowgirls in the rankings making a run at the CNFR include:  Josey Murphy - 4th in breakaway roping and #10 in goat tying; Abbie Muckelroy - 12th in barrelracing; and Neely Grover - #13 in goat tying. 

The spring circuit includes:

January 29-30 - Texas A&M Commerce at Sulphur Springs' Hopkins County Civic Center

February 12-13 - Trinity Valley Community College Rodeo in Athens, TX

March 12-13 - Texas A&M University Rodeo at Brazos County Expo Complex

March 26-27 - Hill College Rodeo in Hillsboro, TX

April 16-17 - Wharton County Jr. College Rodeo at the Wharton County Fairgrounds

April 29 - 30 - McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA

Men's Team

Women's Team

Tonight Roughrider Basketball plays a double-header against the Palestine Wildcats in Palestine.  Both games are earlier than usual with the ladies tipping off at 5:00.

 The 5-2 Lady Riders begin the evening facing the district-leading Lady Wildcats at 6-1.  In their first match-up, Center led for three-and-a-half quarters but Palestine earned a come-from-behind victory.  A Center win would create a three-way tie at the top of the standings with Jasper who Center beat in a thriller Tuesday night.

The Ray Jones Chevrolet Pre-Game Show begins at 5:45.  The Broadcast Team visits with Coach Boone, then student reporter Jack Callen Watlington sits down with Lady Rider guard Amiyah Hubbard from Roughrider Studios.

Immediately after the Ladies, (at approximately 6:30), the 4-1 Roughriders face the Wildcats as both teams begin the second half of the district schedule.   During the Crossover Show [between games], The Broadcast Team chats with Coach Hiram Harrison and Jack Callen talks to Roughrider senior Treyven Emerson.

Then at halftime the Abundant Love Ministries Halftime Show features Kennedy Bush's interview with cheerleader Camryn Crouch during the ladies' game and with Avery Snell during the gentlemen's game.

As the last game concludes, we'll talk to Center Motor's Ford Tough Player of the Game during the Farmers State Bank Postgame Show.  

Again, first tip-off at 5:00, pregame at 4:45.

 Find the live stream on Twitch.TV at the roughridersports page.  Or just click here:

https://www.twitch.tv/roughrider sports

“ARE MEN STILL RELEVANT?”

BY: NEAL MURPHY

It seems that the twenty-first century has produced a general feeling among the female of the species that men are no longer needed.  I read articles and see programs on television produced by young, liberated feminists who espouse the idea that they have no need for a man in their lives.  They are educated, own their own businesses, and only need a man for pro-creation.  They can then rear their children alone – who needs a man around?  Any time a program or commercial needs a dufus, guess who gets that part – the white guy.  It would be a politically incorrect thing for a female to do.

In view of the above I was surprised to read an article which reported on a recent survey among these women which revealed that they were still interested in men, as long as the men did what they wanted them to do.  The article listed seven things these modern women think are missing in modern men.

1.    Elevator Etiquette - I suppose it is because there are no elevators around here that I was surprised by the women’s complaint.  The ladies want the males to let them into the elevator first, then allow them off first, according to this survey.

2.    General Respect – the women complained of their perception that men no longer show them the proper respect they feel they deserve.  It seems that a man staring at their rear end, or front end, and yelling things such as “hi sexy” is no longer a sign of endearment.

3.    Giving Up Your Seat – Apparently guys no longer let women have their seat on the bus, train, or trolley car, and they resent it.  I always thought that this was a “built-in” automatic response of the male toward the female, but apparently has now disappeared.

4.    The World Is More Threatening To The Female – They feel that women are being attacked more often and in more places these days.  The survey said that most women want a male to walk them to their cars in a parking lot, or even walk them home.

5.    Be Polite To Them – This covers a wide range of things.  How about reaching for something off a high shelf for them? Or, opening the door for her to enter or exit?  The survey reported that the women would like for a man to help them carry a big box or package.  Could it be that men are no longer doing any of these polite things?

6.    Hold The Door Open – Do not let the door close on her while she enters or exits first.

7.    Driveway Etiquette – This is not a new one.  The women do not like for men to drive up in their driveway and honk their car horn as a signal for them to come out.  They much prefer if the male walks up to the door and walks her to the car.

So there you have the current ideas of the modern female regarding males. It seems that in spite of the fact that most modern feminist have done their best to emasculate men, they still have some need of them.  They are trying to “sissify” the young boys by forbidding them from playing “dangerous sports”, and definitely not playing with a toy gun, and no playing “cowboys and Indians” because of political correctness.  In other words, manliness is being discouraged, that is, until they have need of a man for one of the seven reasons listed above.

Being a male is a matter of DNA.
Being a man is a matter of age.
Being a gentleman is a matter of choice.

AUSTIN (January 27, 2021) — The Headliners Foundation of Texas is issuing a call for entries for its annual Showcase Awards for Enterprise and Innovation in Journalism, the only cross-media competition to honor exceptional work by Texas-based journalists. The current contest period is for journalism produced from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2020.

The deadline for entries is March 8, 2021. The Showcase Awards, first introduced by the Foundation in 2013, recognize outstanding journalism that has made a significant impact on Texas government, public policy, culture, or the conduct of a business, non-profit or other organization. Contest rules were changed last year to widen the competition and allow contest judges better opportunity to study entries closely.

The revised rules are posted on the Foundation's web site. Last year, for the first time, Texas-based journalists who work for news organizations with permanent bureaus in Texas can enter, in addition to journalists who are on the staffs of news media headquartered in Texas. For example, the new rules now permit entries from Texas bureaus of national wire services, national newspapers and broadcast networks. Journalists and news organizations are encouraged to choose up to three entries from their 2020 work.

A maximum of three entries is allowed, and each entry can contain up to 10 separate elements. There is no cost to enter the Showcase competition, which provides cash awards directly to individual journalists. The top Showcase Award pays $2,000, part of more than $30,000 in annual award prizes. Last year's winner of the top Gold Award was a team of Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News staff members for "Abuse of Faith," which exposed sexual abuse allegations in the Southern Baptist Church. Silver Awards went to KXAN-TV of Austin and WFAA-TV in Dallas. Certificates of Merit were awarded to Victoria Advocate, Austin American-Statesman and Dallas Morning News.

This year's winners will be announced in the spring. They will be recognized in person at the Headliners Foundation's annual Mike Quinn Luncheon in the fall. In 1983, the Headliners Foundation of Texas was formed as a tax-exempt organization to formalize the Headliners Club’s awards program into an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in Texas journalism. In addition to awarding scholarships for promising students, the Headliners Foundation recognizes media talent and sponsors unique journalism projects. In 2019, it made a significant expansion of programs by creating the Verne Lundquist Sports Media Institute.

For further information, visit www.headlinersfoundation.org or contact Alison Unger, executive director.

The Shelby County Shooters Club is having it's membership drive starting this week.

15 months for $75.00 single.

Family Memberships are $85.00

Paid memberships are from February 2021 till May 01, 2022.

Club range is located South of Center on Highway 96.

The Shooting range is for rifle, handuns, and shotguns.

The Shelby County Shooters Club was organized over 30 years ago as a nonprofit Civic club.

For more information call or text Terry Carriker at 936-590-2939

LUFKIN, Texas, January 27, 2021 – The National Forests and Grasslands in Texas will conduct controlled burn operations in the next few months. The controlled burn areas will be marked with signs as needed to include signboards and electronic road
signs. Those near national forests may see smoke columns, reduced visibility in low lying areas, and additional traffic along Forest Service roads.

“The public may see a helicopter overhead, smoke columns rising, and smoke settling in low-lying areas at night,” said National Forests and Grasslands in Texas Fire Management Officer Jamie Sowell. Controlled burning dramatically reduces the chances of a wildfire spreading out of control, and burning underbrush promotes new growth of tender vegetation beneficial to wildlife such as deer, turkey, and birds. Controlled burning protects subdivisions, businesses, and transportation corridors from potential wildfires.

“Our primary concern is for the safety of the public,” said Sowell. “We want the public to know whatwe’re doing when we conduct burns in the national forest. These are controlled fires conducted by experienced, qualified firefighters who work as a team to ignite, monitor, and ensure the fire stays within the established control lines.”

The Forest Service only burns when environmental conditions are most favorable based on weather forecasts from the National Weather Service.
For those with respiratory problems, we recommend they close windows and ventilate their homes by using the air conditioning or heating system. Some may want to leave the area until the smoke clears. We encourage anyone sensitive to smoke to contact the local Ranger’s District Office to provide information so we can notify you in advance of planned burns in your area. If drivers encounter smoke on the road, they should reduce their speed and use low beam lights to become more visible to other traffic.

Controlled burns benefit wildlife habitat by removing dead and dying vegetation from the understory, which improves the availability of forage and the quality of browse for wildlife. Reducing the underbrush improves foraging, brood, and nesting habitat for turkey, quail, deer, and other wildlife species.

For more information, visit our website: www.fs.usda.gov/texas.

Middle School Boys Basketball games have been cancelled for this Thursday. 

(Washington, D.C., January 15, 2021) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide additional assistance through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), expanding eligibility for some agricultural producers and commodities as well as updating payments to accurately compensate some producers who already applied for the program. Producers who are now eligible and those who need to modify existing applications due to these updates can contact USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26. Some of these changes are being made to align with the recently enacted Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 while others are discretionary changes being made in response to ongoing evaluation of CFAP.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has left a deep impact on the farm economy, and we are utilizing the tools and monies available to ease some of the financial burdens on American producers to ensure our agricultural economy remains strong, independent and a global leader in production,” said Secretary Perdue. “As part of implementing CFAP 1 and CFAP 2, we identified new areas of support and Congress recently directed us to provide additional relief. This additional assistance builds on to the $23.6 billion in assistance already provided to our farmers and ranchers impacted by the pandemic, and we will continue to implement other provisions enacted by Congress.”

Background:

Expanded Eligibility for CFAP 2

Contract producers of swine, broilers, laying hens, chicken eggs and turkeys who suffered a drop in revenue in 2020 as compared to their 2019 revenue because of the pandemic now are eligible for assistance. Producers could receive up to 80% of their revenue loss, subject to the availability of funds.

Producers of pullets and turfgrass sod also now are eligible for CFAP payments. The commodities were not explicitly included in the initial CFAP 2 rule. Payments are based on eligible sales, and the payment calculation in the updated rule includes crop insurance indemnities, Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP), and Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program – Plus (WHIP+) payments.

Updated Payment Calculations for CFAP 2

Similarly, FSA adjusted the payment calculation to use the producer’s eligible 2019 calendar year sales, and 2019 crop insurance indemnities, NAP, and WHIP+ payments, multiplied by the applicable payment rate for all sales commodities, which include specialty crops, aquaculture, tobacco, specialty livestock, nursery crops and floriculture, for CFAP 2. Producers who applied during the sign-up period that closed Dec. 11, 2020, can modify an existing CFAP 2 application between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26, 2021.

Additionally, FSA adjusted the payment calculation for certain row crops for CFAP 2, specifically those for which a producer had crop insurance coverage but not an available 2020 Actual Production History (APH) approved yield. FSA is now using 100% of the 2019 Agriculture Risk Coverage-County Option (ARC-CO) benchmark yield to calculate payments when an APH is not available rather than 85%, which was in the original CFAP 2 calculations. This calculation change is only for producers with crop insurance coverage who grow barley, corn, sorghum, soybeans, sunflowers, upland cotton and wheat. Producers who applied during the sign-up period that closed Dec. 11, 2020, can modify an existing CFAP 2 application between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26, 2021.

CFAP 1 ‘Top-up’ Payments for Swine

FSA is providing an additional CFAP 1 inventory payment for swine to help producers who face continuing market disruptions from changes in U.S. meat consumption due to the pandemic. Swine producers with approved CFAP 1 applications will soon automatically receive a “top-up” payment of $17 per head increasing the total CFAP1 inventory payment to $34 per head.

More Information

Newly eligible producers who need to submit a CFAP 2 application or producers who need to modify an existing one can do so between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26, 2021, by contacting their local USDA Service Center. New applicants can also obtain one-on-one support with applications by calling 877-508-8364.

In addition to the changes being made to CFAP, per language in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, FSA will extend 2020 Marketing Assistance Loans to provide additional flexibilities for farmers. FSA is also preparing to move forward on implementation of the remaining provisions of the recently passed Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.

To learn more about this additional assistance, visit farmers.gov/cfap.

All USDA Service Centers are open for business, including those that restrict in-person visits or require appointments. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with FSA, Natural Resources Conservation Service or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors are also required to wear a face covering during their appointment. Our program delivery staff will continue to work with our producers by phone, email and using online tools. More information can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus.    

Tonight Roughrider Basketball plays a double-header against Jasper here in Center.  

After two sub-varsity games are completed,  The 4-2 Lady Riders take on the Lady Bulldogs for Game 7 of their District Basketball Season.  They hope to avenge their last-second loss to Jasper three weeks ago.  The Ray Jones Chevrolet Pre-Game Show begins at 6:00  (OR as the JV game [5:00] is coming to a close.)  The Broadcast Team visits with Coach Boone and with Lady Rider standout Aniyah Boykins.

Immediately after the Ladies, The 3-1 Roughriders face the Bulldogs for Game 4 of their District Schedule.  During the Crossover Show [between games], The Broadcast Team chats with Coach Hiram Harrison and with Roughrider Sophomore Jake Liker.

Then at halftime the Abundant Love Ministries Halftime Show features an interview with cheerleader Tatum Mettauer during the ladies' game.  During the gentlemen's game, they will interview Coach Madison Holyfield, head coach of the 8-1-1 Lady Rider Soccer Team.

When the game ends, we'll talk to Center Motor's Ford Tough Player of the Game during the Farmers State Bank Postgame Show.  

Again, the first game should tip-off after the pregame, around 6:00 tonight.

 Find the live stream on Twitch.TV at the roughridersports page.  Or just click here:

https://www.twitch.tv/roughrider sports

Tri-County Produce Drop will be tomorrow January 27 at 9am in the

Ivan Smith Parking lot near Old Sombero's Restaurant.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Dr. Ron Petti, collaborative pianist at Stephen F. Austin State University, and members of the School of Music voice faculty will present the program “Sea Fever,” which features works by composer John Ireland, in a virtual concert at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb 1.

Each year, Petti collaborates with voice faculty to present a concert that showcases the art songs of different composers, and this year, Ireland is the featured songwriter.

“Prolific English composer John Ireland composed in many different genres, but he excelled in the realm of piano music, specifically the form of art song with piano,” according to Petti.

Ireland’s early influences include the German masters Ludwig van Beethoven and Johannes Brahms, but in his 20s and 30s, he became attracted to the music of French composers Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel. Ireland’s compositional style has often been described as “English Impressionism.”

Collaborating with Petti for the recital are Debbie Berry, soprano; Ric Berry, tenor; James Held, baritone; Nita Hudson, mezzo soprano; Scott LaGraff, baritone; and Chris Turner, baritone. Jamie Weaver will begin the concert with a pre-performance discussion of the composer and his works.

“The recital flier for this concert shows a photo of the Channel Island of Guernsey, a place Ireland frequently visited,” Petti said. “His most famous song, ‘Sea Fever,’ serves as the title for our concert. Perhaps his visits to the Channel Islands of Guernsey and Jersey served as the inspiration to compose this song.”

To access the live concert free of charge, visit music.sfasu.edu. For additional information, contact the School of Music at (936) 468-4602.

TENAHA BASEBALL SCHEDULE
2021 DISTRICT 23-2A

TUE 3/2     @ SHELBYVILLE        6PM

FRI 3/5     VS SHELBYVILLE        4PM

TUE 3/9     VS TIMPSON            4PM

FRI 3/12     @ TIMPSON            6PM

TUE 3/16     @ MARTINSVILLE        6PM

FRI 3/19     VS MARTINSVILLE        4PM

TUE 3/23     VS MT. ENTERPRISE    4PM

FRI 3/26     @ MT. ENTERPRISE    6PM

TUE 3/30     @ JOAQUIN            6PM

THUR 4/1     VS JOAQUIN        4PM

TUE 4/6     VS GARRISON        4PM

FRI 4/9     @ GARRISON        6PM

TUE 4/13     @ WODEN            6PM

FRI 4/16     VS WODEN            4PM

TUE 4/20     -BYE WEEK-

FRI 4/23     -BYE WEEK-

TUE 4/27     VS GARY            4PM

FRI 4/30     @ GARY            6PM

AUSTIN – TxDOT is reminding all drivers to take extra precautions when driving around trucks.

Thousands of large trucks and tractor-trailers travel busy Texas highways every day. Weighing 20 times more than an average car, “big rigs” require more time to accelerate and decelerate and have large blind spots that other motorists need to be aware of to help avoid a potentially deadly crash.

An 80,000-pound, loaded tractor-trailer going 65 mph can take as much as the length of a football field to come to a complete stop, which is why motorists should avoid driving too closely or swerving in front of a large truck.

Tractor-trailers and large trucks also have more and larger blind spots than passenger vehicles do. It’s important to try to stay out of these blind spots around the front, back and sides of trucks. A good rule of thumb for motorists to remember is that if they can’t see the truck driver in the truck's side mirror, that truck driver can’t see them or their vehicle either.

To help keep everyone safe on the road, TxDOT asks motorists to give trucks plenty of room and observe the following safety tips when driving around large trucks:

• Pass trucks safely by waiting until you can see both truck headlights in your rearview mirror before moving back into your lane. Pass a truck only when it’s legal and safe.
• Stay away from a truck’s “No Zones,” blind spot areas in which crashes are more likely to occur. No Zones include the blind spots along each side, the space up to 20 feet in front of the cab, and the area up to 200 feet behind the trailer.
• Maintain a safe following distance. Be sure you can see the driver in the truck’s side mirror.
• Never cross behind a truck that is backing up.
• Don’t squeeze between a truck and the curb. Trucks make wide right turns, and the driver may not see you.
• “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel such as wearing a seat belt, driving the speed limit, never texting and driving and never driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Nov. 7, 2000 was the last deathless day on Texas roadways. #EndTheStreakTX asks all Texans to commit to driving safely to help end the streak of daily deaths on Texas roadways.

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

Tickets will be sold online for the Center vs Palestine Basketball game this Friday 1/29/20 @ Palestine. 

The link is as follows; 

https://schooleventticketslogin.com/profile/user_profile/palestine-independent-school-district

Tickets are $3 for everyone

NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE
 GOVERNING BODY OF THE 
CITY OF TENAHA

The Tenaha City Council will meet in a Regular City Council Meeting on Monday, January 25, 2021 at 5:30 pm, Tenaha, Texas. 
FACE MASK ARE REQUIED TO ENTER THE BUILDING AND DESIGNATED SEATING WILL BE PROVIDED DUE TO SOCIAL DISTIANCING. 
The following items are on the agenda for appropriate action:
1.    Call to Order:
2.    Roll Call: To establish a quorum. 
3.    Invocation:
4.    Pledge: United States Pledge
5.    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.  
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.    Executive Session:

Consider entering executive session for legal consultation with the City Attorney and discussion of pending litigation, personnel matters and acquisition with possible action related thereto upon reconvening in open session in accordance with Government Code Section 551.071, 551.072, 551.074. 

End of Executive Session
Reconvene into open session and take any action necessary because of the Executive Session.

8.    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 Monday November 23, 2020.  
b.    Scheduling Next Month’s meeting for Monday February 22, 2021 at 5:30 pm. 
REGULAR AGENDA ITEM(S) (9-13) 
9.    Representative from Ameri-Tex Services presentation.  NO ACTION ITEM
10.    Discuss and take action: Discuss and Consider approving the November 2020 Financials.
11.    Discuss and take action: Discuss and Consider approving the December 2020 Financials.     
12.    Discuss and take action: Discuss and award contract to vendor for the delivery of emergency services equipment through CDBG FAST Grant 7219256.
13.    Discuss and take action: Discuss and Consider approval of moving $17,879.14 from one bank account to another to pay First National Bank Wichita Falls for Loan No. 66879.
14.    Discuss and take action: Order an Election to be held on May 1, 2021 for the purpose of electing (3) Three City Council Members; Place 1, Place 4 and Place 5.  
15.     Council Items: Reports by the members of the City Council on matters not on the agenda will be made at this time.  
16.     Adjourn.
The Council reserves the right to retire into executive session concerning any of the items listed on this agenda whenever it is considered necessary and is legally justified under the Open Meetings Act. 
The agenda is posted as required under Government Code Section 551.041. For more information or for a copy of the open meetings act, please contact the Attorney General of Texas at 1-800-252-8011 or the City Secretary at 936-248-3841. 
Amanda Treat
City Secretary

On 1/20/2021 at 1455 hours, Center PD Officers were dispatched to Center Place Apartments in reference to a “shots fired” call. Upon arrival, Officers made contact with Delon Barnes who remained at the scene with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was transported to Nacogdoches for treatment and was later released. Through the investigation, it was discovered that this incident was a continuation of a prior conflict between two parties. At this time, the shooter and all parties have been identified and the investigation is ongoing.

The Center Police Department would like to express great gratitude to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department and Texas DPS for their immediate response and assistance. Together, we can make a difference.

200 San Augustine St., #7

Center, TX  75935

(936) 598-7744
January 22, 2021

NEWS RELEASE
    By:    Lane Dunn
    County Extension Agent-AG
     Shelby County

Agents from Angelina, Cherokee, Houston, Newton, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, Shelby & Tyler Counties will host a Forest Pest Seminar on February 12, 2021. This will be a live webinar event. Registration and payment are online at https://tamuagrilifeextension.wufoo.com/forms/forest-pest-seminar/
The event is geared toward timber owners and industry professionals but anyone needing CEU hours will benefit and is welcome to attend. 5 CEU’s for TDA Pesticide Licensing, 5 SAF Cat – 15 Texas Accredited Forester and 5 Pro-Logger will be available for those with a TDA pesticide applicator’s license.

Scheduled speakers and topics to be covered include:

•    Harrison Fahy, Forestry Sales Representative, Nutrien Solutions, Rob Hughes, Executive Secretary, Texas Forestry Association - Forest Pesticide Products Update, Laws and Regulations (L&R)
•    Matthew McBroom, Associate Dean and TLL Temple Professor, Stephen F. Austin State University - Forestry BMPs, Pesticides, and Water Quality (IPM)
•    Kyle Cunningham, Associate Professor of Forestry, University of Arkansas –Division of Agriculture - Managing Hardwood Component in a Mixed Stand (General)
•    Allen Smith, Regional Forest Health Coordinator, Texas A&M Forest Service - Forest Insects and Disease: Identification and Control (IPM)
•    Shannon M Stewart, Reforestation Advisor for Texas & South Louisiana, ArborGen - Pesticide Considerations in Advanced Genetics Silviculture (IPM)

Registered participants will receive an email with a link and instructions on how to join the conference a few days prior to the event. For more information contact the Angelina County Extension office at 936-634-6414 or 936-632-8239.

The members of Texas A&M AgriLife will provide equal opportunities in programs and activities, education, and employment to all persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity and will strive to achieve full and equal employment opportunity throughout Texas A&M AgriLife.  The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating  Anyone needing special assistance at an Extension Program should contact the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office of Shelby County at (936) 598-7744 at least two weeks prior to the program or event.

COMMISSIONERS’ COURT

SPECIAL MEETING 

SHELBY COUNTY, TEXAS
Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 27th day of January, 2021 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.    Update on the USDA Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Assistance Program by the Natural Resources Conservation Service regarding projects within the County.

4.    Discuss and possibly take action to move forward on the USDA EWP Assistance Program.

5.    Discuss and possibly approve the Regional Mutual Aid Agreement with the Counties within the DETCOG Region.

6.    Discuss and possibly renew the 5-year Garza County Grazing Lease with Steven A. Hill for $13,200.00 per year.

7.    Discuss and possibly approve adding cameras and monitors to the Annex Building.

8.    Adjourn.

 COMMISSIONERS’ COURT 

SPECIAL MEETING 

 SHELBY COUNTY, TEXAS

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 27^th day of January, 2021 at 10:00 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. Meet with TDEM representatives regarding applying for Hurricane Laura Assistance.

2. Discuss and possibly move forward on an application to FEMA for Public Assistance on Hurricane Laura damage.

3. Adjourn.

The Friday girls’ soccer game vs Carthage, 1-22-21, has been moved to the Carthage Bulldog Stadium at 5:00.  Prepare for possible rain during the game.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — The Stephen F. Austin State University Office of Multicultural Affairs’ seventh annual Diversity Conference will examine diversity, equity and inclusion in the years ahead with the theme “Diversity in the New Decade: Defining the New Normal.”

“As our institution and community continue to embrace diversity and create an inclusive environment, it is important for us to focus on what diversity will look like in the new decade,” said Jalon Berry, OMA assistant director.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s conference will be held via Zoom. Through the virtual conference, the OMA aims to spread diversity and inclusion on the SFA campus and within the Nacogdoches community by inviting speakers to present diversity-related information and experiences to conference attendees.

“With recent events, the world as we have known it has changed, and we have to adapt,” Berry said. “As a result, we want to ensure that all conference attendees are able to take away vital information and tips that will assist with their intentionality to embrace diversity, be equitable and promote inclusiveness.”

This year’s luncheon keynote speaker is Dr. Griselda Flores, director for Student Life at Harford Community College. The closing keynote speaker is Nicanor “Nick” Pesina Jr., JD, SFA alumnus and trial attorney with Roberts and Roberts in Tyler.

Throughout the day, presenters will host 15 sessions, including the following, on Zoom:

• Why Diversity Matters in College: COVID Edition
• New Faculty Spotlight: Equity and Social Justice in SFA’s Department of Education Studies
• Learning from HSI Success Stories: Opportunities for Implementation at SFA
• A Closer Look at Mental Health Resources for Students at SFA
• Effective Solutions for Student Wellness

The seventh annual Diversity Conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 12. It is free and open to the public. To register to attend via Zoom, visit sfasu.edu/oma.

For more information, contact OMA at oma@sfasu.edu or (936) 468-1073.

ANGELINA COUNTY – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers arrested two men from New York State today on felony charges after they evaded law enforcement during a traffic stop on US 59, north of Lufkin.

The preliminary information indicates at approximately 9:50 a.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a 2020 Chevrolet passenger car for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, the driver, identified as Kasen Turner, 37, fled the Troopers on foot. A passenger with Turner, identified as Vincent McCabe, 40, sped away from the traffic stop in the Chevrolet, picking up Turner a short time later. They continued their flight from law enforcement into the City of Nacogdoches, where they were taken into custody without further incident.

The driver, at the time of the arrest, is identified as Vincent McCabe, 40, from Lockton, NY. The passenger is identified as Kasen Shamar Turner, 37, from Buffalo, NY. Both McCabe and Turner were transported to the Angelina County jail on multiple felony charges.

Additional information is not available at this time.

On Wednesday, January 20th, a shooting took place at the Center Place Apartments on Clifford Street just before 3PM. One individual involved was transported by ambulance. Officers worked to obtain evidence from what appeared to be a bullet hole at the front of one of the residences in the apartment complex. No additonal information is available at this time.

Center Recreation Department would like to announce Spring signups for Baseball, Soccer, and Softball.

Sign-ups will be held at the Community House located at 425 San Augustine Street (across from Mangum Funeral Home) on January 29 st , February 2 th and February 5 th from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Boys and Girls ages 4-14 are encouraged to play.

If your child is new to playing these sports, please bring a birth certificate so their age can be verified.

Thank You and any questions please call Jason Mitchell at 936-590-7196.

Shelbyville ISD Recognizes School Board

The month of January is proclaimed School Board Recognition Month to emphasize the importance of the men and women across the state of Texas who serve on school boards.  Shelbyville I.S.D. students benefit every day from the dedication and commitment to public education of our local trustees.

Our current board members are Mark Bohannon, President, 7 years; Lori Alvis, Vice-President, 2 years; Joey Lawson, Secretary, 8 years; Joe Tom Schillings, 12 years; Tim Bradshaw, 7 years;

Chris Koltonski, 5 years; and Duane Lout, 8 years.

These men and women sit through meetings, read reports, listen to parents’ concerns, and do hard work to benefit the students and the community.  They serve without pay, giving of their time and expertise to ensure that young Texans have the skills needed for lifelong success.  These local citizens are elected by the community to make critical decisions that directly affect the future of our youth.  At this time, we say thank you to these dedicated volunteers.  We appreciate their generous sharing of time and energy.  They are truly heroes for our schools.  “Thank You” to the Shelbyville I.S.D. School Board.

There will be a delay in the mobile COVID testing today, due to the truck bringing the equipment breaking down. They are loading all the equipment to a new truck, so the testing will be delayed until 9:30 approximately.

The Sabine County Beekeepers will meet for our monthly meeting on Monday February 1st. 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.  

Members of the Timpson Band virtually auditioned for the ATSSB (Association of Texas Small School Bands) Middle School and High School All-Region Bands in December 2020. The Timpson students that earned chairs are:

Amy Hernandez ~ 8^th Grade Euphonium, 4^th Chair MS Band

Isabella Galaviz ~ 9^th Grade Bb Clarinet, 14^th Chair HS Concert Band

Alyssa Parks ~ 12^th Grade Bb Clarinet/Alto Clarinet, Advanced to AREA on each; chose Alto Clarinet

Pedro Garcia ~ 10^th Grade Tuba, 8^th Chair HS Concert Band, Advanced to Area

Jayden Windham ~ 10^th Grade Tuba, 6^th Chair HS Symphonic Band, Advanced to Area

The All-Region band concert was cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic. Students will receive the 2021 All-Region band patch in recognition of their achievement.

This past week members of the Timpson Band virtually auditioned for a chance to earn a chair in the ATSSB  All-State band.

Senior Alyssa Parks, earned 2^nd Chair and alternate to State on the alto clarinet

Sophomore Pedro Garcia, earned 6^th Chair on the Tuba

Sophomore Jayden Windham, earned 1^st Chair (3A Track) on the Tuba

Jayden Windham will represent Timpson at the All-State Clinic/Concert on June 9 -12 at Melissa High School. He is the son of Michael and Sarah Windham. His grandparents are Eileen Randall, Tim & Sabrina Randall, and David & Rebecca Windham.

Congratulations to all of these fine Timpson Band students. We are VERY proud of all of our Bear Band students that auditioned!

Tuesday, January 19, 2021: VG/VB vs Martinsville (There) 5:00pm

No General Admission

Boys games cancelled

#Scrimmages                                                                                        *District Games   Head Coach: Steven McCann                               Asst Coaches: Rodney Prnka, Ryan Mason Superintendent: Ryan Fuller                                                                    Principal:Terri Gray Contact Information: Work Phone-936-269-3128 : Cell Phone- 936-572-2965 : emailsmccann@joaquinisd.net

Up date
Press Release: Missing Person, Antwone J. Smith
 
01/16/2021

Antwone Smith has been found safe on 01/16/2021 at around 12:00pm. 

Antwone was found waking on Cr 202 in north west San Augustine County by a Truck driver. Antwone was transported to the San Augustine Chi. ST. Luke memorial Hospital by EMS to be evaluated by the ER Staff. 

The Family and San Augustine Police Department would like to thank everyone for the help in locating Antwone.
 

SABINE COUNTY – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigated yesterday evening a three-vehicle crash on SH 21, just east of the Pendleton Bridge, near the Louisiana border.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 7:05 p.m., a 2021 Toyota passenger car failed to yield right of way from a private drive when it was struck by a 2010 GMC pickup that was traveling east. Following that collision, the GMC traveled into the westbound lane where it collided with a 2016 Chevrolet pickup.

The driver of the Toyota is identified as Curtis Harrison, 44, from Hemphill. Harrison was transported to LSU Medical Center in Shreveport by medical helicopter for treatment.

The driver of the GMC is identified as Vanessa Davis, 28, from Bronson. Davis and two passengers identified as Jason Davis, 38, also from Bronson and Ralph Hill, 48, from Hemphill were pronounced deceased at the scene by a Sabine County Justice of the Peace.

The driver and passenger in the Chevrolet were not injured during the crash. Their identities are not immediately available.

This crash remains under investigation. Additional information is not available at this time.

The Shelby County Flash Mob is a new group organized by Elaine Belanger and Jennifer Armstrong. A Flash Mob is a choreographed dance routine that seems to just magically happen. Jennifer says the musical choices are a lot of fun and feature something for all generations. With all of the bad things going on in the world, Jennifer says the Shelby County Flash Mob's goal is to put smiles on faces.

The group is currently meeting each Thursday at the Pineywoods Youth Center behind Panola College on Loop 500 in Center. If you'd like more information visit their Facebook page or call Jennifer Armstrong at 318-453-6135.

Tonight Roughrider Basketball plays a double-header against rival Carthage Bulldogs in Carthage.   The Lady Riders take on the Lady Bulldogs for Game 4 of the District Basketball Season.  At 1-2, the Ladies need a win tonight.  The Ray Jones Chevrolet Pre-Game Show begins at 6:15 OR as the JV game is coming to a close.  The Broadcast Team visits with Coach Boone and with Lady Rider standout Jakayla Parks.

Immediately after the Ladies, The Roughriders face the Bulldogs for Game 2 of their District Schedule.  During the Crossover Show [between games], The Broadcast Team chats with Coach Hiram Harrison and with Roughrider Senior Jermaine Preston.

  Then at halftime the Abundant Love Ministries Halftime Show features an interview with cheerleader Taylor Horton during the ladies' game and with chaparral Kristin Orsak during the gentlemen's halftime intermission.  

When the game ends, we'll talk to Center Motor's Ford Tough Player of the Game during the Farmers State Bank Postgame Show.  

Again, the first game should tip-off after the 6:15 pregame, around 6:30 tonight.

 Find the live stream on Twitch.TV at the roughridersports page.  Or just click here:

https://www.twitch.tv/roughridersports

Catch the action on your computers or smartphones at Twitch.TV.

Appendix C3: Boil Water Notice Rescinded

01/15/2021

ON 01/12/2021, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality required the Paxton public water
system, 2100031 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 01/15/2021.

If you have questions concerning this matter, you may contact Stacy Cranford 903-692-4313.

Businesses in downtown San Augustine are looking forward to the 2021 Main Street Heritage Days event to take place tentatively in downtown on June 4-5.  Currently we need vendors both art and craft @ $25.00 per space and food vendors @ $50.00 per space! 

We are also looking for volunteers to show and tell heritage / pioneer demonstrations. We would like to have displays of vintage cars and trucks. If you have old tractors we would love to see those too!  Those interested in participating please call San Augustine Main Street  936-201-9798 cell or office 936-275-3172 at which time we will take your name and send information.  

Friday, January 15, 2021

2-Games VG/VB vs Shelbyville (Home) 5:30 pm

Tickets at gate

(JV Games Cancelled)

There will be a COVID-19 drive through testing sight conducted at the John D. Windham
Civic Center, 146 Express Blvd in Center on Wednesday January 20 th from 8:00 am-
4:00pm.
The testing is free to all and no appointment is necessary.

COMMISSIONERS’ COURT
SPECIAL MEETING
SHELBY COUNTY, TEXAS

Notice is hereby given that a Special meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County
Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 20 th day of January, 2021 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. Update Court of the Certificate of Compliance from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards
dated December 31, 2020.

5. Discuss and possibly take action on a vehicle for Constable Precinct 5, Josh Tipton.

6. Recognize completion of required continuing education for Jennifer Fountain, County Clerk.

7. Record the filing of the Vehicle Inventory Tax Fund audit for January 2021.

8. Discuss and possibly approve the purchase of software for the District Attorney’s Office.

9. Discuss and possibly approve adding cameras and monitors to the Annex Building.

10. Discuss and possibly advertise for bids to repair and paint the exterior of the Adult

Probation Building.

11. Adjourn.

NACOGDOCHES COUNTY –Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
responded to a two-vehicle major crash this morning on US 59, about three miles north of Appleby.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 3:30 a.m., a 2011 Chevrolet SUV was traveling south. A 2017 Nissan passenger car was traveling north. For unknown reasons the driver of the Chevrolet drove into the northbound lanes and struck the Nissan head-on.

The driver of the Chevrolet is identified as 63-year-old Ira Caraway from Tenaha. Caraway was pronounced deceased at the scene by a Nacogdoches County Justice of the Peace.

The driver of the Nissan is identified as 32-year-old Vanessa Sowell from Garrison. Sowell and two passengers identified as Damien Davis, 41, from Garrison and Christian Dodd, 31, from Center were also pronounced deceased at the scene by a Nacogdoches County Justice of the Peace.

This crash remains under investigation. Additional information is not available at
this time.

Regular Meeting
of the
Joaquin Independent School District Board

Notice is hereby given that on the 18th day of January 2021 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.

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:

Texas Government Code Section:

§551.071 An executive session will be held for the purpose of having private consultation with the Board’s attorney when the governmental body seeks the advice of its attorney about pending or contemplated litigation or a settlement offer, or on a matter in which the duty of counsel to his client, under the Code of Professional Responsibility of the State Bar of Texas clearly conflicts with the Act.

§551.072 Deliberation of the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property if deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the governmental body in negotiations with a third person.

§551.073 Deliberation of a negotiated contract for a prospective gift or donation to the governmental body if deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the governmental body in negotiations with a third person.

§551.074 Deliberate the appointment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee; or to hear a complaint or charge against an officer or employee.

§551.076 Deliberate the deployment, or specific occasions for implementation, of security personnel or devices.

§551.082 Deliberate a case involving the discipline of public-school child or complaint or charge brought against an employee of the School District by another employee and the complaint or charge directly results in a need for a hearing.

§551.0821 Deliberate a matter regarding a student or students where personally identifiable information about students will necessarily be revealed by the deliberation.

§551.083 Deliberate the standards, guidelines, terms or conditions the board will follow, or instruct its representatives to follow, in a consultation with a representative of an employee group.

§551.084 Exclusion of witness from hearing.

§551.127 A governmental body may use a video conference call to hold an open or closed meeting and a member or employee of a governmental body may participate remotely in a meeting of the governmental entity by means of a video conference call if that participation complies with the requirements and provisions of this section.

§551.129 A governmental body may use a telephone conference call, videoconference call, or communications over the Internet to conduct a public consultation with its attorney in an open meeting of the governmental body or a private consultation with its attorney in a closed meeting of the governmental body. Education Code 39.030

39.030 Discuss or adopt individual assessment instruments or assessment instrument items.
Should any final action, final decision, or final vote be required in the opinion of the School Board with regard to any matter considered in such closed session, then the final vote shall be either:
(a) in the open meeting covered by the Notice upon the reconvening of the public meeting; or
(b) at a subsequent public meeting of the School Board upon notice thereof; as the School Board shall determine.

AGENDA ATTACHED

AGENDA FOR January 18, 2021
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 Board Appreciation Month
4.2 Monthly Financial Report – Joel Bumback, Director of Finance
4.3 Update on Improvement Projects
4.4 School Safety Audit

5. Agenda Items for consideration and possible action:
 5.1 Minutes from previous month’s meeting
 5.2 Approve Resolutions to extend Federal Leave locally
 5.3 Waiver letter for Summer feeding program
 5.4 Approve Substitute Employee List

6. Enter Closed Session
6.1 Enter closed session under Texas Government Codes:

§551.074 Deliberate the appointment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of public officer or
employee; or to hear a complaint or charge against an officer or employee.
6.1.1 Deliberate the evaluation of the Superintendent and his contract
6.1.2 Hire Special Education Aide at the Elementary

7. Return to Open Session - Agenda Items for consideration and possible action:
 7.1.1 Superintendent’s contract
 7.1.2 Hire Special Education Aide at the Elementary

8. Recommendations for items to be placed on agenda for next Board meeting

9. Designation of date and time of next meetings: February 8, 2021 - 6:00pm

10. Adjournment

Ryan Fuller, Superintendent
January 15, 2021

JOAQUIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
REGULAR SCHEDULED MEETING
January 15, 2021

The Joaquin Economic Development Corporation will meet in regular session Tuesday January 19, 2021at 5:30 p.m. at the Joaquin City Office located at 124 N. Preston, Joaquin, Texas and via facebook live https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010140665244&ref=bookmarks
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4453645221
          

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.    Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest.
2.    Board approval of the previous month’s minutes.
3.    Board approval of bills paid and to be paid.
4.    Adjourn.

IF during the course of the of the meeting, any discussion of items on the Agenda should be held   in executive or closed session, the Council will convene in executive or closed session, in accordance With the Texas Open Meetings Act, Governmental Code Section 551 and Texas Revised Civil Statutes.

JOAQUIN PUBLIC SAFETY CORPORATION
REGULAR SCHEDULED MEETING

January 15, 2021
The Joaquin Public Safety Corporation will meet in regular session Tuesday,January 19, 2021 at 5:00 p.m at the Joaquin City Office located at 124 N. Preston, Joaquin, Texas and via facebook live https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010140665244&ref=bookmarks https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4453645221
          

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.    Call to order, establish quorum & welcome guest.
2.    Board discussion/approval of the previous month’s minutes.
3.    Board discussion/approval of bills paid and to be paid.
4.    Discussion and/or action on changing the annual fire gear/PPE allotment for JVFD.
5.    Discussion and/or action on providing funds of a determined amount to buy tools and rescue equipment for the new rescue pumper truck.
6.    Discussion and/or action on replacing the back bay door to the fire department.

7.    Adjourn.

IF during the course of the of the meeting, any discussion of items on the Agenda should be held   in executive or closed session, the Council will convene in executive or closed session, in accordance With the Texas Open Meetings Act, Governmental Code Section 551 and Texas Revised Civil Statutes.

CITY OF JOAQUIN 
REGULAR SCHEDULED MEETING
    AGENDA 
January 15, 2021

The City Council of Joaquin will meet in regular session Tuesday, January 19, 2021 @ 6:00 p.m.  The Joaquin City Hall located at 124 North Preston, Joaquin, Texas and via facebook live https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010140665244 and video conference at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84139587984

ORDER OF BUSINESS

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

2.    Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance.

3.    Public hearing for TxCDBG Planning project #7218074

4.    Consider Resolution (attached) accepting TxCDBG Planning project #7218074 ( Ken)

5    Council approval of the previous month’s minutes.

6.    Monthly Reports: 
a.    a. Utility Billing Manager Report - Monthly receipts 
b.    b. Public Works Manager -  Update – Sewer, Water, & Gas

7.     Discussion & Council Action on Payment of Bills.

8.      Resolution approved by council that states You (at this time I   stated “Mayor” but feel free to change that) or a Representative can authorize grant items moving forward. (attached)

9.      Program Assurances. (attached) This document states that you have the match and will comply with all the rules if you are awarded a contract. It will need to be signed by the representative in the Resolution.  (Hunter)

10.    Discussion & Council Action to amend building code for any building with a second story to have a water booster. (Bill)

11.     Discussion and Council Action to motion to add Jessica Davis to signature card to all American State Bank accounts and remove Paula Guzman. (Bill)

12.    Council will hold a closed Executive Session Meeting (Cathy)
a.    Personnel Matters (551.074). 

13.    Council reconvenes & possible action on matters discussed in executive session.

14.Discussion and/or action for Public Safety Development Corporation item on changing the annual fire gear/PPE allotment for JVFD.

15.Discussion and/or action for Public Safety Development Corporation item on providing funds of a determined amount to buy tools and rescue equipment for the new rescue pumper truck.

16.Discussion and/or action for Public Safety Development Corporation item on replacing the back bay door to the fire department.(Rusty)
17. Closing Statements.

18.    Adjournment.

IF during the course of the of the meeting, any discussion of items on the Agenda should be held   in executive or closed session, the Council will convene in executive or closed session, in accordance With the Texas Open Meetings Act, Governmental Code Section 551 and Texas Revised Civil Statutes.
 

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) is looking to add an unwanted medication disposal unit in our lobby for public use.

The purpose of this unit will be to allow the public to dispose of unwanted, expired medications in a safe way. The unit will be available to the public FREE OF CHARGE and access to the unit will be 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

The total cost for the unit and one pack of extra liners is $2,888. If you or your business is interested in a sponsorship for this project, please contact Leah Chase at the SCSO by calling 936.598.5601 or by email at leah.chase@co.shelby.tx.us.

 
01/15/2021

The San Augustine Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating Antwone J. Smith, of San Augustine, Texas.
 
On January 14, 2021, at 3:00 a.m., San Augustine Police Department received a call to investigate a report of a missing person.  Antwone’s girlfriend stated she last seen Smith in the early hours of January 13, 2021 at their home in the City of San Augustine, Texas.
 
Through our investigation, it was discovered that their vehicle, a 2012 white Chrysler Town and Country van, was involved in a crash on FM 711 Approximately 4 miles north of the City of San Augustine. The crash was reported to dispatch around 5:00 a.m. on January the 13th, It is believed that Smith was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash. There was no one located at scene of the crash or in the immediate area.
 
  
Antwone J. Smith is 39 years of age described as a B/M, 5’09”, 265 lbs., with brown hair and black eyes.  He was last seen wearing blue T-Shirt, dark blue joggers, gray jacket, and brown steel toe boots. 
 
If anyone has information or knows the whereabouts of Antwone J. Smith please call the San Augustine Police Department at 936-275-2384.

Shelby County Outreach Ministries will be closed on Monday, January 18, 2021, in observance of Martin Luther King Day.  Food boxes will be handed out on Wednesday from 10-2.  We are sorry for the inconvenience.  Have a safe and blessed holiday.  

Free drive thru COVID testing at the San Augustine County Youth Arena from 8am- 4pm.

San Augustine County Criminal Court has been cancelled until further notice.

Commissioners Court Meeting is Scheduled to meet on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at 9:00 AM.

POLK COUNTY – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) responded to an auto-pedestrian crash last night on US 59 involving a commercial motor vehicle, about one mile north of Livingston.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 6:20 p.m., a 2020 Freightliner truck tractor semi-trailer was traveling south in the outside lane when a pedestrian attempted to cross the highway and ran into the path of the commercial vehicle.

The driver of the Freightliner is identified as 49-year-old Tyrone Freeman from Sugarland. A passenger traveling with Freeman is identified as 43-year-old Randy Bright from Fairburn, GA. Freeman and Bright were not injured during the crash.

The pedestrian is identified as 54-year-old Robert Montgomery. Montgomery was pronounced deceased at the scene by a Polk County Justice of the Peace.

This crash remains under investigation. Additional information is not available at
this time.

The City of Joaquin is proposing land improvements for boat ramp and surrounding property
improvements on the Sabine River. Portions of the property are located within the 100 year floodplain and construction is proposed within the floodplain. The preliminary conceptual plan is available for public review and comment at the Joaquin City Hall, 124 Preston Street, Joaquin, Texas 75954.

Contact the City Hall at 936-269-3021 for additional information.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Spring semester ticket sales for Stephen F. Austin State University’s student-run Culinary Café and Lumberjack Express mobile food lab will open at 8 a.m. Friday, Jan.15, with service on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning Feb. 16.

Patrons must follow the COVID-19 drive-thru and walk-up procedures. Physical distancing will be required, and seating is limited on the Education Annex building’s patio.

For pickup orders, a server will ask you to verify your name and order quantity. If you’re picking up meals for other reservation holders, have all names available. Your meal will include bottled water and utensils.

The Culinary Café, a fine-dining restaurant, will be open from noon to 1 p.m. Drive-thru meals can be picked up in the Education Annex building’s drive-thru portico located at 1620 Raguet St. For walk-up service, pick up your meals at the purple tent in front of the Education Annex’s north entrance.

Lumberjack Express, a quick-service food truck, will be open from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pick up orders at the Lumberjack Express by Education Annex Parking Lot No. 15 on campus. Reservations are highly recommended, but walk-up orders can be purchased with credit card only. Each meal is $8, and only 60 meals will be sold.

Despite COVID-19’s effects on the restaurant business, hospitality administration students working in the Culinary Café and Lumberjack Express were able to prepare delicious meals while gaining hands-on experience during the fall semester because of the support from the Nacogdoches and SFA communities.

“We couldn’t have made it through the fall without their help,” said Dr. Chay Runnels, professor of hospitality administration and interim director of SFA’s School of Human Sciences. “Their support helped our students gain real-world experience and achieve numbers comparable to those we saw before the pandemic hit even with our scaled-back schedules.”

Culinary Café served 762 meals in the fall despite a reduced campus population and one less week of service. The café usually serves around 925 meals a semester. Lumberjack Express served 713 meals during the fall, including two private events. The mobile food lab usually serves around 750 meals each semester.

Construction on the future location of Culinary Café at 1401 Mound St., previously the home of former U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, also continues this semester. The $1.5 million renovation will preserve the 1920 home’s historic nature and add a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen and prep area to give students experience working in a more realistic fine-dining restaurant setting.

The first phase of construction for the kitchen and prep area is scheduled to be complete by early spring.

View menus and purchase tickets at sfasu.edu/culinary café and sfasu.edu/lumberjackexpress. For more information, call (936) 468-4502. To learn more about SFA’s hospitality administration program, visit sfasu.edu/hospitality.

Cutline: Spring semester ticket sales for Stephen F. Austin State University’s student-run Culinary Café and Lumberjack Express mobile food lab open at 8 a.m. Friday, Jan.15, with service on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning Feb. 16.

Huxley Helping Hands DRIVE-THRU Food Pantry will be Saturday, January 16 @ Hillcrest Baptist Church, Center, TX at 9:00 am. Must show ID and be in line by 9:30 am to receive a box. Only one box per household will be given. 

Please wear a mask

CMS Lady Rider Basketball teams will be playing in Palestine on Thursday, 1/14/21. Due to
COVID regulations and other Palestine ISD restrictions, parents/guardians/fans will not be
allowed to attend the games.

Palestine ISD will however livestream the games from their district facebook page for you to be able to watch the games.

Thank you,

Amber Mathews
Interim Principal, Center Middle School

Middle School Basketball Patrons, please note the following requirements for Middle School basketball home games:

? All guests will be required to wear a face covering while at the event. You will not be allowed to
enter without a face covering.
Executive Order GA-29, regarding face coverings, applies to all UIL activities effective July 3, 2020. This includes the 2020-2021 school year. As the public health situation changes, and/or if subsequent Executive Orders are issued by Governor Greg Abbott, these guidelines may be further modified. Exceptions to the wearing of face coverings or face shields include:

? Any person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering;

? While a person is consuming food or drink;

? When a congregating group of persons maintains at least 6 feet of social distancing; or
? Any other reason or circumstance indicated under Executive Order GA-29.

? Social distancing will be required in the bleachers. Yellow tape is used to mark non-seating areas.

Please only sit in allowable areas.

? Individuals who are confirmed to have, suspected of having, are experiencing symptoms of, or
have been in close contact with an individual who has been confirmed to have COVID-19 should
not enter the facility.

? We will follow all UIL guidelines for game attendance including the 50% capacity requirement.

Therefore only family members of players will be allowed to attend. Students without a guardian
will not be allowed to enter so that we have enough room for parents and family members.

CMS Rider basketball games will be played in split gyms to allow for social distancing at games,
The 7B & 8B games will be played at the intermediate gym while the 7A & 8A games will be
played at the middle school gym.

Games will start at 5:00 on Thursday, 1/14/21 with the 2nd games beginning immediately after the 7th grade games.

Thank you,

Amber Mathews
Interim Principal, Center Middle School

 Boil Water Notice for Community Public Water Systems

1/12/2021

Due to a power outage the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has required the      Paxton water system ID# 2100031 to notify customers, everyone on the Jackson side, that  was without water, 01/11/2021, 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 Stacy Cranford 903-692-4313
 

Excelsior ISD - classes will resume Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at regular time.

Double header of Rider Basketball tonight as both Ladies and Gentlemen host the Wildcats of Palestine in their home openers. 

Find it on twitch.tv

--Pregame at 4:45.
--Ladies play their 3rd District Game at 5:00.
--Gentlemen begin their district season immediately following. (6:30 is a good predicted start.)
--Postgame to follow.

Just type twitch.tv into your address bar.  Once there, the twitch search bar is top, center.  Into that bar type: roughridersports.

Ribbon Cutting at T-Town Nutrition at 208 S. George Bowers Drive Tenaha, Texas with the Business Men’s Club Thursday January 14, 2021 at 12:30 pm.

Shelby County Judge, Allison Harbison has announced that all county offices will delay opening until 10 o'clock on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.

Center ISD, Excelsior ISD, and Shelbyville ISD will not have classes on Tuesday, January 12th. Garrison, Joaquin, Tenaha, and Timpson schools will start at 10 o'clock. San Augustine will delay the start of classes for two hours.  Like and follow Center Broadcasting Co. Inc. on Facebook for more updates. 

Excelsior ISD will be CLOSED Tuesday, January 12, 2021 due to no electricity.

Due to weather conditions, Shelby County Outreach Ministries will be closed today.  Emergency Food Boxes will be distributed on Wednesday.  Thank you and be safe.

Due to hazardous driving conditions, all Shelby County Government offices will be closed on Monday, January 11th.

The following schools have announced that they will not have school on Monday, January 11th due to Sunday's snowfall. Center ISD, Excelsior ISD, Garrison ISD, Joaquin ISD, San Augustine ISD, Shelbyville ISD, Tenaha ISD, and Timpson ISD. All schools report that classes will resume on Tuesday. San Augustine students will transition to Virtual Learning via Google Classroom and Wolf Academy. There will be no school in Logansport or any other Desota Parrish school on Monday. Panola College will have a delayed opening on Monday, January 11th. Offices will open at 10:30 am and classes will start at 11:15 am.

The Board of Directors at Champions for Children recently announced that Andria Horton of Tyler will be the new Executive Director of the organization. In addition, Tara Winter, also of Tyler, has accepted the position of Development Director.

Andria Horton began working for Champions in September of 2019 as the development director and was soon named director of operations and development. Originally from the Longview area, she has been working in Tyler since 2001 in various community outreach positions. After graduating from Ouachita Baptist University with a degree in Biblical Studies and Sociology, Andria spent 17 years working for Green Acres Baptist Church where she developed a local multi-housing ministry, served in a variety of community outreach efforts, and helped plan and coordinate both local and international missions. During this time, Andria also completed a masters degree Ministry-based Evangelism at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Over the past year, Andria has also completed a Certificate in Non-Profit Management. Andria is passionate about preparing the next generation to be strong leaders and making Smith County a safe and nurturing community for children to grow and learn.   

Tara Winter brings more than 25 years' experience in fundraising and development to Champions. She has a business degree from Arizona State University and is a graduate of Boston University School of Fundraising. She is a Certified Fund Raising Executive through CFRE International.

Her recent accomplishments include finishing a 25 million dollar capital campaign and securing four million in federal and state grant funding for early childhood education. She and her husband recently moved to Tyler from Illinois.

Champions for Children provides education, mentoring, tools, and support to caregivers, teachers, and parents so all children can reach their full potential. The organization serves families and childcare centers from all over East Texas. For more information, visit championsforchildren.org.

* District Game                                                                   ** District Game/Senior Night Head Coach: Mike Lawson                                                Assistant Coach: Reed Westbrook Athletic Director: Wade Lawson

                                                   COMMISSIONERS’ COURT                                                                                                            REGULAR MEETING                                                                                                          SHELBY COUNTY, TEXAS

Notice is hereby given that a Regular meeting of the Governing body of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court will be held on the 13^th day of January, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. in the Courtroom of the Shelby County Courthouse at 200 San Augustine Street, Center, Shelby County, Texas to deliberate and consider action on the following items:

1. Approve the minutes of the December 2, 2020 Special meeting, December 9, 2020 Regular meeting, December 16, 2020 Special meeting, December 30, 2020 Special meeting,                          of the Shelby County Commissioner’s Court.

2. Approve and pay weekly expenses.

3. Approve Officers Reports.

4. Public Comments on Agenda item.

5. Discuss the 5-year Garza County Lease which is ending March 31, 2021.

6. Constable Pct. 5 Josh Tipton to address the court to discuss his budget.

7. Open sealed bids on Excavator for Commissioner Pct. 4.

8. Discuss and possibly apply for the District Attorney Testing of Forensic Evidence Grant Program for FY2022.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

9. An Executive Session will also be held for the purpose of discussing personnel, hearing complaints against personnel, or to deliberate the appointed, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee. The closed session is authorized by Texas Open Meeting Act, Texas Government Code Section 551.074.

10. Reopen public meeting.

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

12. Discuss and possibly amend District Attorney’s Budget.

13. Adjourn.

TISD must inform basketball fans that due to the 50% capacity rules in the State of Texas, we must require that all ticket purchases to Timpson High School basketball games be made online at Schooleventtickets.com. Therefore, there will no longer be tickets sold at the gate for high school basketball games for Timpson High School.

Please, visit Timpsonisd.com and click the QR code located on the website to access Schooleventtickets.com to make your purchases for games. 

Tonight the Lady Riders take on the Lady Bulldogs in Jasper Texas for Game 2 of the District Basketball Season.  They won big last week in Rusk and hope to keep it rolling into Jasper tonight.

For the first time ever, a district game will be closed to all spectators.  Attendance is restricted to participants only, but Jasper ISD has allowed the Roughrider Broadcast Team to be there to stream the game.  Find the live stream on Twitch.TV at the roughridersports page.

The Ray Jones Chevrolet Pregame should begin at 4:45 with an interview with Ladies Head Coach Doug Boone, followed by a visit with Lady Rider Makaya Hubbard.

The game begins at 5:00, 

Then at halftime the Abundant Love Ministries Halftime Show features an interview with cheerleader Camryn Crouch.  When the game ends, we'll talk to Center Motor's Ford Tough Player of the Game during the Farmers State Bank Postgame Show.

Catch the action on your computers or smartphones at Twitch.TV.

Joaquin ISD has scheduled a substitute training and orientation session for Thursday, January 14, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. until noon.  The training will be held in the Joaquin ISD Annex building located behind the high school.

Please complete an online application located on the Joaquin ISD website, www.joaquinisd.net, under employment opportunities.  If you have any questions contact Donna Vergo at 936-269-3128 ext 225 or by email, dvergo@joaquinisd.net.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – The Stephen F. Austin State University School of Art will host two simultaneous exhibitions starting in January in The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House in downtown Nacogdoches.

In “Found/Loaded,” artist Sarah Fisher collaborates with fashion designer Rachel Anderson to transform found objects as diverse and seemingly unrelated as dry cleaning identification stickers, sacramental furniture, grocery bags and newspapers. “Electric color, overt and covert use of text, and idiosyncratic patterning wrap, even cocoon, the objects in words to depict psychological aftereffects of life in the human group,” Fisher writes in describing the works. She states that central themes in the exhibition are “the cost of belonging and resilience in the face of trauma.”

The exhibition “taps into a divergent array of emotions” Fisher writes, “from adoration to anxiety, awe to horror, disgust to triumph, fear to fearlessness, forgiveness to peace, and asks the question: how do we reconcile our primal craving for community and belonging with our yearning for authenticity and humanity?”

The work in “Found/Loaded” is primarily text based, mixed media and found object, although it includes some drawing and painting.

In describing her exhibition “Encoded,” artist Karen Eisele writes that Byzantine iconography has “a rich history where the techniques used for each aspect of the painting have symbolic meaning.” These traditions have remained unchanged for centuries.

“I create Icons in the tradition of Byzantine orthodox painters – utilizing stylized figuration, areas of interlocking color and radiant gold leaf,” she writes. “I borrow the style as a way to explore the contemporary visual landscape of Icons. I find a clear parallel between religious icons of the Byzantine era in today’s dominant consumer culture.”

To begin an icon, a birch or poplar board is prepared with many layers of gesso made from marble dust, chalk dust and rabbit skin glue. Traditionally, 33 layers were used to represent Christ’s life. This mixture is applied over linen that has been soaked in the glue. Then, 24k gold is applied for the halo and, depending on the Greek or Russian tradition, for the background.  This precious metal serves as a visual “spiritual doorway” between heaven and earth.

Colors are also important in the icon, Eisele said. For example, Mary’s blue robe stands for faith and humility while the red robe speaks to the mystery of divine life. Mary is often painted with three stars attached to her garments. These represent not only virginity, purity and power, but also the Holy Trinity, and Christ’s life, death and resurrection. Each star is made up of eight rays for the seven days of creation and Christ’s return.

Eisele’s work invites viewers to contemplate the ways in which the past is visually encoded upon the present.

“An artistic examination of these icons offers us a deeper understanding of our current visual culture,” she added.

The shows run Jan. 21 through March 20 and are sponsored in part by the SFA Friends of the Visual Arts, William Arscott and the Nacogdoches Junior Forum. Admission is free.

The Cole Art Center is SFA’s historic gallery located at 329 E. Main Street. For more information about the School of Art, call (936) 468-4804.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – The Stephen F. Austin State University School of Art will host two simultaneous exhibitions starting in January in The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House in downtown Nacogdoches.

In “Found/Loaded,” artist Sarah Fisher collaborates with fashion designer Rachel Anderson to transform found objects as diverse and seemingly unrelated as dry cleaning identification stickers, sacramental furniture, grocery bags and newspapers. “Electric color, overt and covert use of text, and idiosyncratic patterning wrap, even cocoon, the objects in words to depict psychological aftereffects of life in the human group,” Fisher writes in describing the works. She states that central themes in the exhibition are “the cost of belonging and resilience in the face of trauma.”

The exhibition “taps into a divergent array of emotions” Fisher writes, “from adoration to anxiety, awe to horror, disgust to triumph, fear to fearlessness, forgiveness to peace, and asks the question: how do we reconcile our primal craving for community and belonging with our yearning for authenticity and humanity?”

The work in “Found/Loaded” is primarily text based, mixed media and found object, although it includes some drawing and painting.

In describing her exhibition “Encoded,” artist Karen Eisele writes that Byzantine iconography has “a rich history where the techniques used for each aspect of the painting have symbolic meaning.” These traditions have remained unchanged for centuries.

“I create Icons in the tradition of Byzantine orthodox painters – utilizing stylized figuration, areas of interlocking color and radiant gold leaf,” she writes. “I borrow the style as a way to explore the contemporary visual landscape of Icons. I find a clear parallel between religious icons of the Byzantine era in today’s dominant consumer culture.”

To begin an icon, a birch or poplar board is prepared with many layers of gesso made from marble dust, chalk dust and rabbit skin glue. Traditionally, 33 layers were used to represent Christ’s life. This mixture is applied over linen that has been soaked in the glue. Then, 24k gold is applied for the halo and, depending on the Greek or Russian tradition, for the background.  This precious metal serves as a visual “spiritual doorway” between heaven and earth.

Colors are also important in the icon, Eisele said. For example, Mary’s blue robe stands for faith and humility while the red robe speaks to the mystery of divine life. Mary is often painted with three stars attached to her garments. These represent not only virginity, purity and power, but also the Holy Trinity, and Christ’s life, death and resurrection. Each star is made up of eight rays for the seven days of creation and Christ’s return.

Eisele’s work invites viewers to contemplate the ways in which the past is visually encoded upon the present.

“An artistic examination of these icons offers us a deeper understanding of our current visual culture,” she added.

The shows run Jan. 21 through March 20 and are sponsored in part by the SFA Friends of the Visual Arts, William Arscott and the Nacogdoches Junior Forum. Admission is free.

The Cole Art Center is SFA’s historic gallery located at 329 E. Main Street. For more information about the School of Art, call (936) 468-4804.

Cutline: Artist Sarah Fisher collaborates with fashion designer Rachel Anderson to present the exhibition “Found/Loaded” Jan. 21 through March 20 at The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House, SFA’s historic downtown art gallery.

Cutline: Karen Eisele’s iconography exhibition “Encoded” will be presented Jan. 21 through March 20 at The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House.

ALERT: The Lufkin District will begin pre-treating US 59 and US 259, elevated surfaces and known trouble spots today and continue through Friday in all nine counties ahead of expected winter weather. Re-treatment will occur Sunday evening into Monday as needed.

A Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of Tenaha ISD will be held January 11, 2021, beginning at 5:30 PM in the Boardroom of the Administration Office138 College Street, Tenaha, Texas 75974. 

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---Welcome 

2. Public Comment 

3. Reports from Administrators 

4. Consider for Approval the District Quarterly Investment Reports 

5. Consider for Approval the Minutes of the Previous Meeting(s)

6. Consider for Approval Policy Update 116 Affecting (LOCAL) Policies: CQB (LOCAL): TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES - CYBERSECURITY DCD (LOCAL): EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES - AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT FFAC(LOCAL): WELLNESS AND HEALTH SERVICES - MEDICAL TREATMENT GKA(LOCAL): COMMUNITY RELATIONS - CONDUCT ON SCHOOL PREMISES 

7. Consider for Approval to Call School Board of Trustee Election for May 1, 2021, to Fill 3 Regular 3 Year Term Positions in Conjunction with the City Election 

8. District Employees and Officers, TX Government Code Section 551.074 and Real Property Tax Code Section 552.72 

9. Comments by Board Members

10. Adjournment 

If, during the course of the meeting, discussion of any item on the agenda should be held in a closed meeting, the board will conduct a closed meeting in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Government Code, Chapter 551, Subchapters D and E or Texas Government Code section 418.183(f).Before any closed meeting is convened, the presiding officer will publicly identify the section or sections of the Act authorizing the closed meeting.

All final votes, actions, or decisions will be taken in open meeting. (See BEC (LEGAL)] The notice for this meeting was posted in compliance with the Texas Open Meeting Act on: 1/7/2021 

Scott Tyner, Superintendent 
 

“DOPE  ON  A  ROPE”

BY: NEAL MURPHY

I still have a scar on my left knee caused by a football injury, although I was not playing football at the time.  How could that have happened, you may ask.  Well, here’s how.

When my son, Doug, was around eight years old in the late 1960s, he enrolled in the F.U.N. football league in Houston, Texas.  There were a number of different teams and Doug ended up on the Cougars team.  The boys played their games in a very nice football stadium which resembled a smaller version of Rice University stadium.

There was an important football game this particular evening, so I, my wife, and daughter drove over to Westheimer Blvd. to the stadium to root for the Cougars.  After parking in the lot provided, we headed for the stadium entrance.  We reached a point where someone had tied a rope to two posts across the road which prevented vehicles from driving any farther.  The rope was approximately a foot high which presented a challenge for my wife and daughter to step over.

Being chivalrous I decided to assist them over the rope.  I stepped down on the rope thus lowering it to just a few inches off the ground. About the same time that I was standing on the rope, a vehicle attempted to drive on through, snagged the rope which in turn threw me to the ground on my knees.  The gravel and asphalt did a number on my knee and I was bleeding.  I debated on returning home to doctor myself.

As luck would have it, a referee saw the incident and came over to investigate.  He took one look at my injury and said, “That needs some medical attention.  Come with me to the dressing room and we will have a doctor take a look at it.”

I found myself in the football team’s locker room with the team doctor and trainers.  I felt out of place there as my knee was cleaned and wrapped with an ace bandage.  The doctor was kidding me that this was a first for him.  He had treated many young boys at the games, but I was the first adult.  Limping up the stands to my family I felt like a dope.  However, I do believe that the person driving the car that caused the whole thing is the real dope here.

Whenever men talk about their old football injuries I show them my scarred up knee and tell them I got that injury while scoring a touchdown while dragging three tacklers with me across the goal line.  It makes for a good story.  After all, it happened on a football parking lot.

NACOGDOCHES,TX (January 6, 2021):  The Nacogdoches Police Department responded to an auto pedestrian accident at around 10:45 p.m. in the 3900 block of South St.  The investigation revealed that a Silver Toyota Prius was traveling northbound when it struck an adult pedestrian that was attempting to cross the roadway.  The victim was later pronounced deceased. 

The victims identity is being held pending notification of next of kin. The driver of the Prius was not injured in the accident.  The NPD Traffic Division responded to the scene to perform an accident reconstruction. As further information becomes available it will be released

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — In its continued efforts to seek new avenues for reducing barriers to higher education, Stephen F. Austin State University has unveiled a new program aimed at recognizing high-achieving SFA undergraduates by fast tracking them into a graduate program of their choice.

Created through the Office of Research and Graduate Studies, Axe-celerated Admission allows faculty members to nominate standout students once a year in the spring for VIP admission into a graduate program of their choice at SFA.

“The program is meant to encourage great SFA undergraduate students to continue their advanced education by enrolling in a graduate program at SFA,” said Dr. Pauline M. Sampson, dean of the SFA Office of Research and Graduate Studies. “The program will benefit students by easing their application process and allow them to register earlier. It also will recognize students for their outstanding work as the nomination alone is a prestigious acknowledgment.”

Nomination allows students to bypass proof of a bachelor’s degree as well as offers

• early admission to an SFA graduate program of their choice
• early registration
• and reduction of the required three letters of recommendation to just one, written by the nominator.

The inaugural nomination period will open Feb. 1 and close March 1.

“We want to let students know about their nomination and acceptance prior to spring break each year so they have more time to best prepare for entry into a graduate program,” Sampson said. “We are excited to recognize our great undergraduate students and encourage them to continue their outstanding work for a master’s degree with professors who already know them.”

As of now, there are no limits to the number of students a faculty member can recommend. Coordinators will assess initial reception and use of the program and will consider implementation of a limit in the future.

For more information, visit the Axe-celerated Admission website at sfasu.edu/axe-celerated.

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING 
Board of Trustees 
Shelbyville Independent School District 
January, 2021

A regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Shelbyville Independent School District will be held on Monday, January 11, 2021, beginning at 6:00 p.m., in the Board Room of the Shelbyville Independent School District at 5322 St. Hwy 87 S, 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 December 14, 2020 meeting of the board
b.    Monthly financial reports
5.    School Board Recognition Month
6.    Consider for Approval
a.    February Board Meeting Time Change
b.    Crisis Intervention Threat Assessment Policy and Safe and Supportive School Team
7.    Principal’s Reports
a.    Campus events
b.    Recognition of Staff and/or Students
8.    Superintendent’s Reports
a.    Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Training
b.    2019-20 School Report Card
c.    Technology and Facilities Update
d.    Articles of Interest
e.    General Updates
9.    Executive Session
a.    Deliberation on Administrators’ & Directors’ Contracts
b.    Resignations/Employment
c.    Personnel
10.     Adjournment

If, during the course of the meeting, discussion of any item on the agenda should be held in a closed meeting, the board will conduct a closed meeting in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas Government Code, Chapter 551, Subchapters D and E or Texas Government Code section 418.183(f). Before any closed meeting is convened, the presiding officer will publicly identify the section or sections of the Act authorizing the closed meeting. All final votes, actions, or decisions will be taken in open meeting. [See BEC(LEGAL)] 
This notice was posted in compliance with the Texas Open Meetings Act on January 6, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.

                                                                                                  __________________________
Ray West, Superintendent
 

Panola College is proud to announce students named to the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the fall 2020 semester.

To qualify for the President’s List, students must complete the semester with a GPA between 3.8 and 4.0 with a minimum of 12 semester credit hours. Only courses applying toward an associate degree or certificate are included in this computation.

The President’s List is as follows:

Blake Aaron, Carthage

Matthew Abshire, Rayne, La

Chad Adams, Carthage

Kara Adams, Marshall

Austin Adkison, Garrison

Jennifer Alvarado, Marshall

Diana Alvarado, Tenaha

Jessica Alvarado, Tenaha

Chandler Amos, Timpson

Jack Angus, Haslet

Alaina Arceneaux, Carthage

Anna Bardwell, Tenaha

Jewel Bass, Joaquin

Lauren Bearden, Carthage

James Beasley, Marshall             

Aubrey Bennefield, San Augustine

Tayton Best, Henderson

Baylea Bishop, Carthage

Richard Blain, Carthage

Mahamalea Bliss, Marshall

Randy Broadway, Center

Kassidy Brooks, Marshall

Taylor Burch, Center

Brooke Cabello, Carthage

Jesus Castillo, Marshall

Annette Castillo               , Tenaha

Emily Cervantes, Center

Brandie Chambliss, Center

Aislyn Clynch, Marshall

Cassidy Cole, Longview

Camden Cordray, Center

Jacob Cox, Joaquin

Brent Dance, Center

Mister Davis, Longview

Maison Davis, Kilgore

Cody Deen, Shreveport, La

Kristina Dodge, Carthage

Darbi Dorrough, Longview

Chase Dunn, Spring

Barbara Dyke, Carthage

Jobeth Eddings, Marquez

Hanna Elliott, Carthage

Presley Elliott, Carthage

Somali Fletcher, Marshall

Angel Garcia, Tenaha

Maria Ghaleb, Las Vegas, NV

Asia Grigsby, Shreveport, LA

Garner Hancock                , Garrison

Rhiannon Harber, Marshall

Ashley Harkness, Center

Gracen Harris, Beckville

Dylan Heim, Pasadena

Jackelyn Hernandez-Cervantes, Center

Alexis Hollaway, Center

Tasha Howell, Center

Samantha Hudson, Carthage

William Jackson, Carthage

Charles Jackson, Rusk

James Jeans, Carthage

Jayla Jenkins, San Augustine

Corben Johnston, Jefferson

Erielle Kawaja, Joaquin

Promise Keshinro, Ikorodu,       

Sarah Kushner, Carthage

Mallory Lambeth, Henderson

Erica Lee, Center

Justin Malnar, Garrison

Morgan Malott, Garrison

Joel Martinez Gonzalez, Tenaha

Corey McDonald, Tenaha

Jacie McGraw, Sulphur Springs

Brooklyn McNeely, Carthage

Carla McWilliams, Grand Cane, LA

Keli Miller, Timpson

Mallory Moore, Garrison

Thazin Mu, Center

Duyen Nguyen, Marshall

Cristal Noriega, Marshall

Easton Parrish, La Vernia

Alexander Patterson, Carthage

Valerie Persilver, Shreveport, LA

Maria Piedra, Carthage

Nathan Pinkston, Timpson

Roselyn Postell, Center

Lauren Powell, Carthage

Rachel Powell, Center

Ashton Powell, Decatur

Makena Radican, San Augustine

Tori Ramirez, Center

Valerie Ramirez, Center

Baylee Reed, Carthage

Shemeka Renfro, Tatum              

Brandon Renteria, Center

Omar Rios, Garrison

Michael Robey, Purmela

Elisabeth Robinson, Beckville

Paulina Salazar, Center

Lah Say, Center

Harley Seaman, Beckville

Ian Simpson, Carthage

Abra Soape, Carthage

Lacey Spencer, Gilmer

Tyler Spivey, Garrison

Hannah Stallings, Santa Fe

Abbie Suggs, Kirbyville

Peyton Swearingen, Center

Aaron Tello, Center

Ryan Thompson               , Frisco

Gunner Thompson, Houston

Angela Trevino, Carthage

Ethan Twomey, Tenaha

Andres Valenzuela, Carthage

Ariana Wells, Emory

Emily Wheeler, Etoile

Destini Whitehead, Joaquin

Kaci Williams, Carthage

Cassiopeia Woodworth, DeBerry

Thomas Wrehe, Keller

Talon Wright, Garrison

Zachary Zea, Rusk

To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must complete the semester with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.79 with a minimum of 12 semester credit hours. Only courses applying toward an associate degree or certificate are included in the computation.

The Dean’s List is as follows:

Jeremy Abreu, Carolina, Pr

Andrew Acosta, Scurry

Jaylon Allison, Beckville

Claudia Alvarez, Carthage

Leia Arnold, Nacogdoches

Chesney Baker, Carthage

Baileigh Barrera, Timpson

Joshua Bartolacci, Coppell

Allison Bass, Joaquin    

Calashuwa Bell, Center

Haley Binning, Logansport, La

Kaneshia Blackshire, Lufkin

Kirwa Boiwo, Grand Prairie

Jakaitlon Bolton, Shelbyville

Kimberlyn Bourliea, Carthage

Madisyn Bridges, Beckville

Sarah Brittain, Mount Enterprise

Trent Bryant, Jasper

Destiny Burton, Mansfield

Elizabeth Bustos, Center

Colby Coleson, Beckville

Luis Coronado, Marshall

Sahara Coultas, Carthage

Allison Daniels, Tyler

Nina DeJesus, Longview

Dallas Dennis, Timpson

Ashleigh Earle, Carthage

Benjamin Edwards, Longview

Crystal Galloway, Lufkin

Allyson Garrett, Joaquin              

Shamry George, Joaquin

Latisha Gilbert, Gary

Jonica Glaze, Center

Neely Grover, Purvis, MS

Camden Guarnere, Baytown

Haylee Hanzel, Hemphill

Gill Hassell, Tyler

Hunter Hathcoat, Beckville

Jose Hernandez, Carthage

Shelby Horn, Carthage

Brittany Hutto, Timpson              

David Jacobs, Center

Cesceily               Jennings, Tatum

Kinsley Johnson, Henderson

Kayla Jones, Carthage

Sarah Kayadibi, Tyler

William Kimzey, Gary

Tucker King, Waskom

Jose Landin, Center

Brittney               Leming, Waskom

Emily Lobato-Rodriguez, Nacogdoches

Caneisha Love, Marshall

Gavin Machado, Houston

Avery Malone, Carthage              

Yesenia Martinez, Marshall

Molly Mason, Joaquin

Elizabeth Miles, Carthage

Melissa Mills, Shelbyville

Abram Morales, Center

Hannah Morrow, Tatum               

Abbie Muckelroy, Center

Helen Muckleroy, Henderson

Summer Murray, Chireno

Dashawn Myers, Tenaha

Joseph Newman, Forest Hill, LA

Yves Nkomba, Leeds,

Kaitlyn Nutt, Carthage

Esther Oluade, London,

Ashley Ortiz, Marshall

Marlene Ovide, Longview

Kaylin Patty, Wakevillage

Tripp Penner, Carthage

Meghan Penney, Henderson

Erin Perez, Corpus Christi

Jordan Phillips, Pasadena

Amanda Pierce, Beckville

Johnnie Pollard, Marshall

Morgan Price, Mansfield, LA

Raquel Rafael, Center

Esmeralda Ramos, Center

Carter Ramsey, Timpson

Alayna Rash, Center

Kimberleigh Reed, Joaquin

Angelica Reed, Tenaha

Laura Retana, Carthage

Leslie Rhoades, Marshall

Taletha Rickards, Carthage

Riley Rieken, Arp

Alexis Russell, Marshall

Maria Sanchez, Marshall

Leah Simmons Nacogdoches

Timothy Smith, Carthage

Tanzi Stafford, Gonzales, La

Kennedy Stanley, Carthage

Lacy Stapleton, Panola

Jeremiah Steph, Tatum

Jamie Stephens, Timpson

Kaitlynn Strong, Gary

Jason Sylvester, Evadale             

Miguel Tamez, Marshall              

Blaine Thomas, Frisco

Thadd Turner, Nacogdoches

Chimmuanya Uwakwe, Lagos,  

Sergio Velazquez, Marshall

Caytlen Vowell, Waskom

Harrison Whitlock, Carthage

Abigail Wilkerson, Carthage

Holly Wink, Carthage

Danelle Womack, Marshall

Elisha Wood, Henderson

John Woodworth, DeBerry

Higinio Zamarron, Tenaha

PUBLIC NOTICE

The City of Joaquin, Texas will hold a Public Hearing to review the performance under
its Texas Community Development Program Contract #7218074 with the Office of Rural
Affairs, Texas Department of Agriculture in which funds were used to develop a
comprehensive plan for the city. The planning activities included mapping and text along
with goals and objectives in the areas of housing, population, land use, economic
development, street system, water system, wastewater system, storm drainage system, gas
system, recreation and open space, zoning and subdivision regulations and capital
improvements program. The documents are available for review at City Hall during
normal business hours Monday through Friday.

The Public Hearing will be held as follows:

Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2021
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: City of Joaquin - City Hall, 124 N. Preston Joaquin, Texas 75954

Agenda:
1. Review of the TxCDBG Contract #7218074

2. Citizens' views, proposals, questions and comments.

Persons with disabilities that wish to attend this meeting should contact City Hall at (936)
269 3021 to arrange for assistance. Individuals who require auxiliary aids or services for
this meeting should contact the City at least two days before the meeting so that
appropriate arrangements can be made.

If you are unable to attend, please mail your views and comments to:
William Baker, Mayor
c/o CDBG Program
124 N. Preston
Joaquin, Texas 75954

(Para más información en español, comuníquese con Paula Guzman al (936) 269 3021

Tri-County Community Action, Inc.
Board Meeting

Tri-County Community Action, Inc. will hold a regular scheduled Board Meeting on Monday, January 11, 2020@ 6:30pm via ZOOM

If anyone would like to attend the meeting please contact Yolanda Neal at (936) 598-6315 Ext: 200

Center High School's National Honor Society members collected items to create "Blessing Bags" for some of Shelby County's elderly residents. 

Each bag contains a blanket, stocking cap, gloves, warm socks, hand lotion, chap stick and puzzle books. 

The students were able to assemble 14 bags that were delivered Friday, December 11th. 

Tonight the Lady Riders take on the Lady Eagles in Rusk Texas for Game 1 of the District Basketball Season, and the Roughrider Broadcast Team will be there to stream the game.  Find the live stream on Twitch.TV at the roughridersports page.

The Ray Jones Chevrolet Pregame should begin at 4:45 with a pre-district overview and an interview with Ladies Head Coach Doug Boone.

The game begins at 5:00, then at halftime the Abundant Love Ministries Halftime Show features an interview with cheerleader Taylor Horton.  When the game ends, we'll talk to the Ford Tough Player of the game during the Farmers State Bank Postgame Show.

Catch the action on your computers or smartphones at Twitch.TV.

NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE

 GOVERNING BODY OF THE

CITY OF TENAHA

The Tenaha City Council will meet in a Special Called City Council Meeting on Thursday January 7, 2021 at 5:30 pm, 238 North George Bowers Drive, Tenaha, Texas.

FACE MASK ARE REQUIED TO ENTER THE BUILDING AND DESIGNATED SEATING WILL BE PROVIDED DUE TO SOCIAL DISTIANCING.

The following items are on the agenda for appropriate action:

1. Call to Order:
2. Roll Call: To establish a quorum.
3. Invocation:
4. Pledge: United States Pledge
5. 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. 

Regular Agenda Item(s):

6.         Consider and act on rejecting all bids and going out for re-advertisement for the 100,000 Gal. Ground Storage Tank Replacement, TxCDBG #7219440.

7.            Discuss and award contract to vendor for the delivery of emergency services equipment through CDBG FAST Grant 7219256.

8.       Council Items: Reports by the members of the City Council on matters not on the agenda will be made at this time. 

9.       Adjourn.

The Council reserves the right to retire into executive session concerning any of the items listed on this agenda whenever it is considered necessary and is legally justified under the Open Meetings Act.

The agenda is posted as required under Government Code Section 551.041. For more information or for a copy of the open meetings act, please contact the Attorney General of Texas at 1-800-252-8011 or the City Secretary at 936-248-3841.

Amanda Treat

City Secretary

January 5, 2021- Lady Riders will be traveling to Rusk. Game starts at 5pm. Varsity only.  

January 8, 2021- No fans will be allowed to attend the Lady Riders Basketball vs Jasper game in Jasper

January 22, 2021- Lady Riders and Riders Basketball vs Rusk is now a home game. Game start at 5pm

February 9, 2021- Riders Basketball vs Rusk will be traveling to Rusk. Game starts at 5pm 

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!!!  Panola College/Shelby College Center’s next Zumba and Yoga classes are approaching soon. Reserve your spot TODAY.

January 11 – February 22, 2021
Zumba Gold – Mondays and Wednesdays – 4:15 – 5:15 pm
January 11 – February 22, 2021
Beginning Yoga – Mondays and Wednesdays – 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm

The cost of each class is $60, and pre-registration is required. For more information and to register, contact Shelby College Center at 936-598-9543 or email: tmccann@panola.edu.

Panola College is an Equal Opportunity Institution that provides educational and employment opportunities on the basis of merit and without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or genetic information. 

Property tax information is available to assist taxpayers.  This property tax information covers a wide range of topics, such as taxpayer remedies, exemptions, appraisals and is of value to select groups, such as disabled veterans and persons who are 65 years of age or older.

Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, disabled veteran or a taxpayer, it’s important you know your rights concerning the property tax laws.  You can contact the Shelby County Appraisal District about any property tax issues and they will provide you the most complete, accurate and up-to-date available information to assist you.

This includes information about the following programs:

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

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

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

•    Appraisal Notices - A Notice of Appraised Value is mailed to each taxpayer in mid May.  This is the taxpayer’s opportunity to check for any discrepancies in their value, property description, address, exemptions, etc. The city, county, school districts and other local taxing units will use the appraisal district’s value to set property taxes for the coming year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Governor Abbott Appoints Three To San Jacinto River Authority Board Of Directors

AUSTIN - Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Wil Faubel and Rick Mora, M.D. and reappointed Kaaren Cambio to the San Jacinto River Authority Board of Directors for terms set to expire on October 16, 2025. The San Jacinto River Authority is a government agency whose mission is to develop, conserve, and protect the water resources of the San Jacinto River basin.

*Wil Faubel* of Montgomery is President of Borets US Inc.He is a veteran and senior executive in the Oilfield Services industry with more than forty years of service.He has both domestic and international experience and isa lifelongmember of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and a former board member of the Petroleum Equipment Suppliers Association.Faubel received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Southern Methodist University.

*Rick Mora, M.D.* of The Woodlands is a partner at US Anesthesia Partners and Chief of Anesthesiology for Memorial Hermann Pinecoft Surgery Center.He is a member of the Texas Society of Anesthesiologists and the American Society of Anesthesiology. Previously, he served as chair of the Montgomery County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and is a founding Board member of the non-profit, Los Doctores de The Woodlands. Mora received a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Literature and pre-medicine from the University of California at Berkeley and a Doctor of Medicine from the University Of Illinois College Of Medicine. He is a military veteran who received an honorable discharge, after serving eight years in both the Army National Guard and the Texas National Guard.

*Kaaren Cambio* of Kingwood is a field representative from United States Congressman Dan Crenshaw. She is a former member of Womens Business Enterprise National Investment Recovery Association, Pipeline Contractors Association, and the Houston Pipeliners Association. She is the past president and current member of the Kings Trails Chapter of the National Charity League and a member of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Tours Committee. Cambio received a Bachelor of Business Administration from San Diego State University.

Shelbyville ISD Parents and Students:

Please be reminded that students are scheduled to return to school from the Christmas Holidays on Tuesday, January 5, 2021.  

Students should not return to school if:

they have tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 10 days
or they have been in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 positive individual within the last 10 days.

Students should also not return to school if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms in a way that is not normal for them: 

•    Feeling feverish or a measured temperature greater than or equal to 100.0 degrees                      Fahrenheit
•    Loss of taste or smell
•    Cough
•    Difficulty breathing
•    Shortness of breath
•    Headache
•    Chills
•    Sore Throat
•    Congestion or runny nose
•    Shaking or exaggerated shivering
•    Significant muscle pain or aches
•    Diarrhea
•    Nausea or vomiting

Please contact your campus school nurse to determine your return date or if you have any questions or concerns.  
 

“ACCIDENTAL  WITNESS”

BY: NEAL MURHY

The old car in front of us was weaving in and out of traffic dangerously, and the occupants, a male and a female, appeared to be fighting each other.  My partner, who was driving the patrol car, decided to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle to see what was going on.

It was in the early 1970s, and we were on patrol for the Harris County Sheriff Department, which is Houston, Texas.  The traffic stop was on the East Texas Freeway around midnight on a hot summer night.  The vehicle promptly pulled over to the shoulder of the freeway and stopped.

I approached the passenger side of the vehicle, ticket book in hand, prepared to issue a traffic citation.  We began to talk to the couple occupying the vehicle and found out that they were arguing about getting married, if, when, and where.  The female stated that they had been married in the past, had divorced, but were now contemplating re-marrying.

Without warning, the male asked me, “Officer, can you marry someone?”  I quipped that I was already married, but he explained that they wanted me to perform the marriage ceremony for them.  I told him that although the badge we wore gave us much authority, it did NOT confer the authority to perform a marriage ceremony.  He then asked if we knew of someone who could marry them right away.

Retreating back to our patrol car to buy a little time to discuss this, we thought about the Justice of The Peace who lived in Humble, TX, not very far away.  We radioed the dispatcher to call the Judge to see if he would be willing to get out of bed and perform a wedding ceremony.  After a few minutes, the dispatcher radioed us that the Judge would be happy to do this.

We relayed this information to the couple, but they did not know where the Justice of The Peace lived.  “Could you lead us to his home?”, the male driver inquired.  “We don’t know our way around Houston.”

“Just follow us and we will lead you to his house”, I told the couple.  My partner said, “Hope we don’t get a hot call and have to leave them.”  We did not get a call, and we were able to lead the couple to the Judge’s residence.  The front porch light was on, silently inviting us to come inside.

I knocked on the front door, and the Judge’s wife met us with a cheerful greeting and said, “All of you come on into the living room.  The Judge is ready for the ceremony.”  The Judge was in his bathrobe and slippers, but had his ceremony book and was ready to go.  I told him, “Judge, my partner and I will leave now and let you go ahead with the ceremony.”

“Now, wait a minute, officer”, replied the Judge, “I will need you both as witnesses to this ceremony.  So ya’ll just stand right over there and watch.”  So, there was no other option for us but to oblige the Judge.  After the ceremony was over, he gave us a document to sign, which we both did.  “Now you can leave, gentlemen”, said the Judge grinning broadly.

Back in the patrol car we just sat there for a few minutes.  What had started out as a traffic stop had turned into the witnessing of a wedding.  What are the odds on that happening?  “Next time, I’m not going to offer the services of a Judge”, mused my partner.  “I won’t either, if there ever is a next time”, I agreed.  So far there has not been a “next time”.

                                                   “ACCIDENTAL  WITNESS”

BY:  NEAL  MURPHY

107 Hemlock Street

PO Box 511

San Augustine, TX 75972

936-275-9033

cell: 936-275-6986

                                               Email: sugarbear@netdot.com