Join us for holiday greetings with Santa, refreshments, and snacks at the Annual NacSpace Alive After 5.
Date/Time Information:
December 5, 2024, from 5:30 pm to 7 pm
Location:
2400 N Stallings Dr
Nacogdoches, Texas
Holiday Hoedown (Nacogdoches County)
San Augustine Main Street Lighted Candy Cane Christmas Parade
Kick off the holiday season with us at the San Augustine Main Street Lighted Candy Cane Christmas Parade! Join us on Friday, December 6th, at 6 PM for an evening of holiday lights, festive treats, and family fun as downtown San Augustine transforms into a magical Candy Cane Lane.
Date: Wednesday, December 6th
Time: Parade starts at 6 PM; Kid’s Barrel Rides open at 5 PM
Location: Downtown San Augustine
Time: Parade starts at 6 PM; Kid’s Barrel Rides open at 5 PM
Location: Downtown San Augustine
Enjoy:
Free Candy for the Kids
Kid’s Barrel Rides starting at 5 PM
Holiday Vendors with Festive Gifts and Treats
Lighted Floats & Holiday Music
Free Candy for the Kids
Kid’s Barrel Rides starting at 5 PM
Holiday Vendors with Festive Gifts and Treats
Lighted Floats & Holiday Music
With our Candy Cane theme, Main Street will be aglow with lights and holiday cheer! Bring your family and friends, grab a cozy spot, and enjoy this festive tradition with our community.
Interested in Joining the Parade?
Contact Tammy Barbee @ Texas Star Retail for parade entry details. All are welcome to bring their holiday spirit!
Contact Tammy Barbee @ Texas Star Retail for parade entry details. All are welcome to bring their holiday spirit!
Stay tuned to San Augustine Main Street for updates. We can’t wait to celebrate with you on December 6th!
New Traffic Signal Set for Activation in Angelina County
LUFKIN – Motorists should remain alert beginning next week on SH 103 at FM 842 as crews activate a new traffic signal.
Commissioners recently approved the placement of the traffic signal after a speed study was completed that met the required markers for the installation of a new traffic control signal device. Portable message boards are in place and the new signal will be activated on Nov. 19.
Motorists should obey all traffic control through the area, stay alert for drivers who are not aware of the new signal, reduce speed and be prepared to stop. The traffic signal is enforceable by law enforcement once it is activated.
For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or call (936) 633-4395.
National Seat Belt Day: Safety Comes First
A lot of people, especially young teens, don’t realize the safety of a seat belt. It is there to prevent you from flying out of the windshield of your car if you have a wreck. It’s also there so you don’t get flown around in a car; instead, the seat belt keeps you seated.
Let’s Look at the Statistics
According to https://www.nhtsa.gov/, in 2022, 25,420 people were killed in passenger vehicle accidents in 2022 alone. Of those killed, about 50% were not wearing a seat belt. That’s 12,710 people that potentially could have lived if they were only wearing their seat belts.
Seat belts saved an estimated 14,955 lives and could have saved an additional 2,549 people if they had been wearing seat belts, just in 2017. Think of how many people could have been saved in the last DECADE if they wore their seat belts. That would be more than just a few people.
History of the Seat Belt
https://www.oswaldserviceinc.com/ records that in the late 1800s, an English engineer named George Cayley came up with the idea for the seat belt, but it wasn’t meant for cars at the time. Instead, he designed it to keep pilots from falling out of their gliders. The first seat belt designed specifically for cars—a lap belt—was patented in 1855 by Edward J. Claghorn, an American inventor. His goal was to improve safety, especially for people riding in New York City taxis. However, seat belts didn’t become common in cars until the mid-1930s, when safety testing started to show their importance. After more research and studies, doctors pushed for seat belts to be included in all vehicles to help protect passengers.
It wasn’t until 1959 that Volvo introduced the three-point seat belt, the type we’re familiar with today. Designed by Swedish engineer Nils Bohlin, this new seat belt offered protection for both the upper and lower body. Soon after, U.S. car manufacturers were required to include seat belts in every car. Before 1966, seat belts were often sold as optional add-ons, and you could even buy them at gas stations. By 1975, most other developed countries had followed the U.S. lead and made seat belts mandatory in all vehicles.
Buckle Up!
Now that you know how important wearing your seatbelt is, make sure to always buckle up even if it’s a short drive. In fact, not only is it not safe, it is illegal in the state of Texas to not wear your seat belt while driving, or even riding as passengers.
Wearing seat belts saves lives. Don’t add onto the aforementioned statistics. Drive smart, and be safe.
SALVATION ARMY’S RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN RETURNS, BRINGING LOVE BEYOND CHRISTMAS
Lufkin, Texas (November 15, 2024) at 10:00 am at Brookshire Brothers on 1807 W. Frank for Lufkin, the Mayor will be there for a friendly competition against the Mayor of Nacogdoches located at
1420 N. University Dr.
KSWP will do a live remote in Nacogdoches, and Kicks 105 will be doing a live remote in Lufkin from 10am-12pm, and Brookshire’s will match a portion of what is raised during that time. We will have a live band in Lufkin represented by Central High School, and one in Nacogdoches represented by The Salvation Army Divisional Headquarters and local players from The Salvation Army church.
The Salvation Army is excited to announce the return of its annual Red Kettle Campaign in Lufkin, spreading joy and the festive spirit of Christmas. As The Salvation Army’s primary fundraising initiative, the Red Kettle Campaign plays a vital role in providing life-changing programs and services throughout the year. These programs include food assistance, shelter for people experiencing homelessness, emergency financial assistance, youth programs and disaster response.
“Since its humble beginnings in 1891, when a Salvation Army Captain used a crab pot to collect funds in
San Francisco, the Red Kettle Campaign has grown to become one of the most recognized charitable
initiatives worldwide,” said Captain Jenifer Phillips of The Salvation Army in Lufkin. “The funds raised
through the red kettle will serve as a lifeline in our community, offering essential assistance such as
nourishment, shelter and vital social services to those in their greatest time of need.”
From the beginning of November until Christmas Eve, red kettles will be stationed outside various
stores and local businesses in Lufkin from Monday to Saturday. Last year, The Salvation Army
successfully raised $75,000 through the campaign, and this season, they are aiming to raise $80,000 to
support the community.
“We are immensely grateful for the spirit of giving in our community and the unwavering support we
receive from our generous donors and corporate partners,” added Captain Phillips. “Together, we can
ignite hope and provide support to those in our community who are in the most need.”
The Salvation Army is also seeking volunteers to ring the bells at the red kettle locations. Those
interested can sign up by visiting RegisterToRing.com or by calling 936-634-5132.
To donate or learn more about how you can support The Salvation Army this Christmas, please visit
southernusa.salvationarmy.org/lufkin or call 936-634-5132.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps nearly 24 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at nearly 7,000 centers of operation around the country. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org Follow us on X @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.
Texas A&M Forest Service Honors Personnel and Service at 2024 Annual Meeting
TYLER, Texas ¾ Texas A&M Forest Service held the agency’s annual personnel meeting today in Tyler, Texas. Statewide agency employees gathered to recognize the past year’s agency accomplishments and employee achievements.
“Our agency has had a successful year of overcoming many challenges,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Director Al Davis. “This year’s personnel meeting was a great day to reflect on our growth, improvements and employee success.”
During the meeting, Davis spoke on many agency highlights from this year including giving over $20 million through the Rural VFD Assistance Program, over $38 million through the Community Wildfire Protection grant, and over $16 million to landowners and communities to improve natural resources.
“I am respectful of our past and excited about our future,” said Davis. “With the help of the Texas Legislature and our employees’ adaptability, we stand ready to conserve and protect Texas.”
During the meeting, agency leadership recognized 78 employees for five years or more of service including: Kirk Risinger, Radio Communications Specialist IV in Hudson for 25 years of service; Bryan Young, Resource Specialist V in Lufkin for 25 years of service; Michael Dunivan, Area Operations Chief in San Antonio for 30 years of service; Joel Hambright, Regional Operations Chief in Huntsville for 30 years of service; and Ricky Holbrook, Fire Coordinator V in Livingston for 35 years of service.
Employees who consistently deliver excellent service above-and-beyond regular job duties were presented with Director’s Awards.
Donna Smith, Business Assistant III in McGregor, received the Director’s Award for Support Staff Field. Smith is known to be an uplifting and encouraging spirit, supporting the office and her team in the field. She goes above and beyond by supporting the agency’s mission and activities through helping with Pac-testing, tree planting, administrative training, Sisters in Fire, Texas Abor Day and Smokey Bear events.
Adam DeWitt, Project Coordinator in College Station, received the Director’s Award for Support Staff Office. DeWitt has demonstrated excellence in project management, technical analysis and process improvement for the Capacity Building Department. His leadership in the development and implementation of FireConnect will have lasting impacts on the agency and fire department cooperators.
Kayla Walkoviak, Business Assistant II in Conroe, received the Director’s Award for Support Staff Professional. Walkoviak has been an integral part of the agency for seven years showing indispensable leadership in district logistics, finances, grant management, reporting and resource tracking. In addition to business functions, she actively engages in prescribed burning on the Jones State Forest and assists with education and outreach events.
Jason Ellis, District Forester IV in Jacksonville, received the D.A. “Andy” Anderson Information and Education Award. Ellis works tirelessly to provide sound educational experiences to visitors of the Fairchild State Forest. He teaches FFA and 4-H members and students from Stephen F. Austin State University and Texas A&M University.
Michelle Moore, Staff Forester II in Lufkin, received the Director’s Award for Technical Forestry. Moore leads the agency’s Electronic Land Management Records program which supports field staff. She is also the Project Director for Texas Climate Smart Initiative’s Forest Commodity Team.
Matthew Moore, Resource Specialist IV in Palestine, received the Charles Krenek Award for Resource Specialist. Moore is dedicated to servicing his district, the agency and all of Texas through wildfire response to assisting landowners. He has a wealth of knowledge and serves on the Employee Advisory Council; is an instructor for chainsaw, ATV/UTV and forklift operations; and is a member of the hand crew.
John Hawkins, District Forester IV in New Boston, received the Byron “Jeff” Durant Prescribed Fire Excellence Award. Hawkins has planned and executed prescribed burns on 6,616 acres from 2022 to 2024 in our North Region. He has strengthened partner relationships which has helped develop the next generation of prescribed burn managers, ensuring the continued success and safety of prescribed fire operations.
The Director’s Award for Team Effort – Best Interdivisional Project was awarded to a group who has elevated the Civil Air Patrol Partnership, increasing aerial fire detection and forest management. This team is comprised of Mike Sills, Staff Forester IV in Dallas; Buster Robinson, Incident Aviation Operations Officer in Palestine; James Russell, Regional Coordinator in Nacogdoches; Billy Whitworth, Area Operations Chief in Nacogdoches; and Courtney Blevins, Staff Forester V in Fort Worth.
Texas A&M Forest Service and the Civil Air Patrol have a Memorandum of Understanding to assist with aerial fire detection. This partnership helped this group facilitate Wildland Fire Behavior training for Civil Air Patrol pilots and observers.
Texas A&M Forest Service is proud to recognize agency accomplishments and employee achievements while looking forward to the future and the coming year of service.
Lady Roadrunners Pull Away from SU-Shreveport
McMahon Scores 25 in AC Win
The Angelina College Lady Roadrunners used a 10-0 run late in the second quarter to distance themselves from Southern University-Shreveport, using the scoring spree to pull away for an eventual 74-63 win Tuesday night at Shands Gymnasium.
AC’s India McMahon and Lanaijha Johnson combined to score the final 13 points in the first half, with both players leading the team to the win. McMahon finished with a team-high 25 points, while Johnson flirted with a double-double with 19 points and nine rebounds. Shanice Ferguson added 11 points and five boards, Maria Andrade pulled down 13 rebounds and Alannah Nerocker dished out 13 assists.
Ikeia Brown led the Lady Jaguars with 17 points.
The Lady ‘Runners (3-3) will play host to the Angelina Classic at Shands Gymnasium this weekend, with six teams competing on Friday and Saturday.
The Classic’s schedule is as follows:
Friday, Nov. 15: SWCC vs. LSU-Eunice, 2 p.m.; Western Gulf CC vs. Tyler JC, 4 p.m.;
Lady Roadrunners vs. McLennan College, 6 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 16: Tyler JC vs. McLennan CC, 12 p.m.; Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. LSU-Eunice, 2 p.m.
The email address for the AC Sports Information Director is gstallard@angelina.edu.
5 Places to Go Shopping in Livingston, Texas
Thanksgiving is only a few weeks out, and Christmas is fast approaching as well. Not only that, but there’s always some special occasion whether it’s a birthday or an anniversary.
Time sure flies when you’re busy working, making time for family and friends, and making time for yourself. It gets so busy that often times it’s difficult to make the time and go shopping to buy what you need for a gift. Don’t worry though, because Texas Forest Country Living has you covered.
Home Grown
In Livingston, Texas, you’ll find Home Grown. This shop’s charming atmosphere perfectly reflects the town and its people. Tammi and Amy, the store’s owners, love their town, and that is clear to anyone who walks into Home Grown. They also adore Livingston’s natural attractions. The city is known for the lake, the state park, the lush pastures, and the iconic pine trees.
This town inspires their t-shirts and merchandise, while its people inspire them to become involved in the positive happenings throughout its boundaries.
Rudy’s Honey
This is perfect for everyone who loves honey. The honey you find in retail stores may not always be the healthiest and the most natural. Rudy’s Honey has just that; natural honey.
Rudy’s Honey in Livingston, Texas, is a great place to get your honey. They’re family owned and operated, produce their honey in an area free of agriculture spray, and pride themselves on great customer service. Go visit if you’ve never been before, and you’ll probably get a tour of their facility, including the extracting and bottling rooms.
Downtown Treasures
Your one stop gift shop! Located on the square in historical downtown Livingston, Downtown Treasures is a unique and fun shop. They sell jewelry, home decor, knifes, skincare products, mugs and other dishes, card and board games, and so much more. This is a perfect place to go Christmas shopping and buy your loved ones something unique and special!
Main Street Merchandise
Main Street Merchandise, a shopping center in the middle of Livingston’s Historic Downtown Main Street District, is worth a visit. This center has over 15 vendors carrying everything from food to gifts to clothing. The center also has a conference room you can rent. It’s worth a trip just to look around–you never know what you might find. If you get hungry while shopping, you can pop in at Alma’s Courthouse Whistle Stop Cafe, which is connected to the shopping center.
Barry Coats Jewelers
If you’re looking for a special gift for someone or want to treat yourself to something nice, consider fine jewelry in Livingston, Texas. Barry Coats Jewelers is a full-service jeweler with an impressive collection of jewelry as well as a team of artisan craftsmen who will make selecting just the right piece easy for you.
It’s Time to Start Gift-Shopping
There are so many other places to shop in Livingston that this list would be too long to read. Christmas is a little over a month away, but before you know it, time will pass you by and suddenly It’s Christmas Eve. It’s not just about the gifts, or how expensive a gift is, it’s about the effort and thought behind a gift that truly matters.
Texas A&M Forest Service Aids in East Texas Community Reforestation Project
COLLEGE STATION, Texas—On Saturday, Nov. 9, Texas A&M Forest Service planted over 150 trees at Morris Frank Park Wetlands in Lufkin. During the event, 280 saplings were also distributed to community members.
This tree planting event was in collaboration with ReForest Lufkin, a community tree planting initiative co-led by Texas A&M Forest Service Green Futures, a corporate sustainability partnership initiative. This event marks a significant milestone for the city of Lufkin as it celebrates its 35th year attaining Tree City USA recognition and its first Growth Award for urban forestry developments.
The location of the tree planting was specifically designed to help reforest the wetland area of the park to aid in stormwater runoff, build resiliency in community tree canopy through highlighting biodiversity, increase percolation of water into the soil, improve wildlife habitat and offer a relaxing greenspace for community members to enjoy.
“We couldn’t have accomplished this historic event without the leadership and support of the community,” said Morgan Abbott, Texas A&M Forest Service Partnership Coordinator. “By organizing, planting and caring for these trees, Lufkin has made a multigenerational promise to bring the economic, environmental, social and spiritual benefits of trees to the community.”
Local organizations and individuals have donated to this initiative and helped plant trees at this event, including Angelina Beautiful Clean, Caddo Sustainable Timberlands, City of Lufkin, Texas Conservation Alliance, Texas Forestry Association, Rayonier, RoyOMartin, TC Energy, TTG Forestry Services, CoBank and community volunteers.
“Green Futures provides an innovative and collaborative opportunity for funders to give back to their communities by addressing global issues through local solutions,” said Abbott. “Large organizations are seeking to accomplish their environmental, social and governance goals, but reach a barrier to enact meaningful, mutually beneficial long-term solutions. Texas A&M Forest Service Green Futures connects funders to local non-profits and local governments to seek the most impactful tree planting sites.”
Upcoming Green Futures Plantings are scheduled in the Houston area. A tree planting will be held on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon, at Jane Long Academy Spark Park (6501 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, Texas 77074). Those interested in volunteering can sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C44AEAA2BA5FBC07-52665285-tree#/
Cultivating A Positive Culture in The Workplace (Angelina County)
Join us for November’s Power Networking Breakfast on Friday, November 22 at 8 AM! This month’s focus is on “Cultivating a Positive Culture in the Workplace”.
Please Note: This month’s breakfast will be held at McWilliams, located at 7642 US Hwy 59 South, rather than at the Chamber. Please plan accordingly.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Angelina College SBDC, and this month’s sponsor, McWilliams Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.
This is an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow professionals—don’t miss it! We look forward to seeing you there.