AUSTIN – A car seat can be a lifesaver, but only if it’s installed and used correctly.
Whether you’re going to school or taking a family trip, knowing how to properly install a car seat is absolutely vital. To help spread the word about the importance of car seat safety, TxDOT is partnering with former NASA rocket scientist Shayla Rivera to launch the Save Me With a Seat campaign during National Child Passenger Safety Week, Sept. 15-21.
The campaign will make a stop in Lufkin on Sept. 26, at the The Children’s Clinic, 205 Gene Samford Drive in Lufkin from 2 -6 pm.
“It’s extremely important that parents schedule a car seat check today,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Ensuring car seats are installed correctly is one of the most important things a parent or caregiver can do to protect their children in a crash.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly half (46%) of all car seats have been installed incorrectly. TxDOT invites parents to schedule a free car seat safety check by visiting SaveMeWithASeat.org and entering their ZIP code to find the nearest TxDOT traffic safety specialist in their area. TxDOT offers free car seat safety checks year-round.
During September, the Save Me With a Seat campaign will make stops in eight Texas cities and showcase the Are You Ready for Takeoff? interactive educational experience. Parents, caregivers and their kids will get a chance to learn how to properly buckle up and be secure in their car seats before a simulated journey into space. The campaign also features retired NASA rocket scientist Shayla Rivera. A native of Puerto Rico and a mother herself, Rivera focuses on the importance of keeping kids safe and secure in their car seats.
Texas law requires all children under the age of 8 or shorter than 4 feet, 9 inches, to be in a car seat when riding in a passenger vehicle. Failure to properly restrain a child can result in a ticket of up to $250. In 2023, 47 children younger than 8 years old were killed in Texas traffic crashes, and 320 were seriously injured.
Save Me With a Seat 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, like wearing a seat belt, driving the speed limit, never texting and driving or driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. #EndTheStreakTX asks all Texans to commit to driving safely to help end the streak of daily deaths.
A relatively quiet week evolved into a busy weekend on our diamonds, our men’s soccer team held its place in the nation’s top five and the long-anticipated unveiling of our new website finally arrived to give us yet another reason to celebrate.
Oh, and an AC legend got some props on a national stage.
Here’s a quick rundown of the week’s events, along with what’s coming up next:
Roadrunner Soccer Maintains Fifth Spot in National Rankings
The men’s soccer team got a much-needed break this week, getting nights off on both Tuesday and Friday, but the team nevertheless held its spot in the national rankings.
Monday’s polls showed the Roadrunners holding fast at No. 5, with a pair of big road trips on tap for this week.
The ‘Runners, 4-0 on the season and at the top of the Region XIV conference standings, travel to No. 9 Tyler Junior College on Tuesday, Sept. 17 and to Blinn College on Friday, Sept. 20.
Friday’s match at Blinn College should be available on TSBN Sports. Check the website schedule for the link.
The ‘Runners’ next home match is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 24 against Ranger College. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m., and the match will be live streamed on TSBN Sports.
Lady Roadrunners Play Tough, Fall at No. 4 Navarro
The Lady Roadrunners hit the road to Corsicana on Tuesday to face the undefeated and fourth-ranked Navarro College Lady Bulldogs, and AC’s ladies didn’t back down from the challenge.
Navarro eventually would pull out the 2-0 win, but the Lady ‘Runners showed their growth over the season’s first five matches. In its two losses against the conference’s two leading teams, AC has allowed just two goals per match against teams averaging more than five goals per contest.
AC will face Blinn College in Brenham on Friday, with kickoff set for 5 p.m. The match will be live streamed on TSBN Sports. Check the AC Athletics website for the link.
The Lady ‘Runners’ next home appearance is set for Friday, Sept. 27 against LSU-Eunice starting at 5 p.m.
New-Look Website is Up and Running
If you haven’t given it a peep already, check out our new-look website (www.angelinaathletics.com). While we’re proud of the result, we’re also still working to build some key components, and those will take some time. In addition, we’ve already encountered some minor (and expected) glitches, but we’re working through those as quickly as we can.
In the meantime, we’re thoroughly enjoying the cool new look along with the easier-to-navigate pages.
We’d love to hear your feedback. Feel free to email Sports Information Director Gary Stallard (gstallard@angelina.edu) or Manager of Athletics Operations Brett Reeves (mareeves@angelina.edu) with your comments.
Former Lady ‘Runner Mack Throws out First Pitch at MLB Game
Since finishing her career at Angelina College, where she established nearly every offensive and defensive record in the books, Natasha Mack has been on a career whirlwind. Following her time at AC, Mack graduated from Oklahoma State University, was a 2nd round draft pick of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky and spent some time playing overseas in Spain, Turkey, Poland and New Zealand. Earlier this year, she met Dallas Maverick superstar Luka Doncic in an elevator.
And this past week, Mack threw out the ceremonial first pitch for Major League Baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks.
Mack, the first player in Angelina College history drafted by the WNBA, currently plays for the Phoenix Mercury. This season, Mack has come off the bench to average 3.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks while clocking 15.2 minutes per game.
The Mercury have clinched a playoff spot with three games remaining in the regular season.
Baseball Holds Big Weekend Tournament
This past weekend featured sunny weather and three whole days filled with baseball.
A perfect fall combination.
The Roadrunners hosted their “Round Robin Tournament” featuring a total of five teams. The tourney wrapped up on Sunday, with Bossier Parish CC, Panola College and Navarro College offering a tripleheader.
The Roadrunners get some time off before traveling to Temple College on Friday, Sept. 27 for a 1 p.m. game. AC’s next home game is set for Thursday, Oct. 3 at 2 p.m. vs. Spartan Post Grad.
The Lady Roadrunner softball team finally got to see some live action, playing its first fall doubleheader on Saturday against a good Nitro team. With so many new faces on the Lady ‘Runner roster, AC head coach Brette Kohring and assistant Sandy Lopez made sure nearly every player got some game action.
AC’s ladies will be at Northeast Texas Community College this Wednesday, Sept. 18 for a noon start. The Lady ‘Runners then return home for a doubleheader against the CyFair Intruders on Sunday, Sept. 22. The first game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. start.
All AC Athletics regular-season home games will be live streamed on TSBN Sports (a free streaming service for fans), with most of the conference road games also available for streaming. (This does not include baseball and softball fall games, as those are not considered official games.)
Once TSBN posts its schedules, AC fans simply need to visit the AC Athletics web site, look at the scrolling schedule in the middle of the page and click the blue “Video” link.
TSBN also offers an app great for smart phones, devices and smart TVs. (You’ve GOT to see those matches and games on the big screen.)
Reminder: Admission to ALL Angelina College Athletics sporting events is free. Any link offering streaming for a fee is a scam.
Upcoming schedules:
Tuesday, September 17:
Lady Roadrunner Soccer at No. 3 Tyler Junior College, 5 p.m., Tyler, TX
In the wake of the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks that stole almost 3,000 American lives, we reflect on the selfless courage of the first responders who rushed into harm’s way to save countless others. Though we mourn the fearless men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice that solemn September morning, we reaffirm our gratitude to all of the brave men and women who wear the uniform and badge today. Together, we can reclaim the spirit and unity that followed 9/11 and honor those who lost their lives. God bless their sacrifice; God bless their memory; and may God continue to bless the United States of America.
With that, we’ll dive back into our examination of House interim charges. . .
House Interim Charge: Higher Education
The House Committee on Higher Education has jurisdiction over matters related to post-secondary education at public colleges and universities across Texas. The Committee also has jurisdiction over the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation, the Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board, and many other agencies.
Over the interim, the Committee will monitor the implementation of many bills including House Bill 8, Senate Bill 25, and Senate Bill 412. HB 8 established a public junior college state finance program that ensures community colleges across Texas can access foundational levels of funding for instruction and operations and establishes a program to provide financial aid to certain high school students enrolled in dual credit courses. HB 8 incentivizes public junior colleges to focus on graduating students who are ready to enter the workforce with a certificate or degree or plan to transfer to a four-year university.
SB 25 dramatically increased funding and resources for nursing education and training programs. Among its many provisions, the bill made part-time nursing faculty eligible for loan repayment assistance and extended the Nursing Innovation Grant Program, which provides grants to institutions to promote the education, recruitment, and retention of nursing students and qualified faculty. SB 412 ensures that pregnant and parenting students are granted certain accommodations and excused absences at higher education institutions so that they can attend to family responsibilities while pursuing their degrees.
Additionally, the Committee will evaluate the alignment of postsecondary success incentives across all education systems in Texas, as well as interagency collaboration for the “Building a Talent Strong Texas” plan. This initiative seeks to increase the attainment of postsecondary credentials, postsecondary credentials of value, and research, development, and innovation.
Finally, the committee will review the status of “Name, Image & Likeness” (NIL) across the state and the country and decide what, if any, action is needed to update state law as it affects our colleges in this policy area.
The mobile office is still on the road this month, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on September 18 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9-11 AM and the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30 PM.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 and my Capitol office may be reached at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will be posting regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and sharing information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.
Angelina College this week held a public hearing regarding the proposed tax rate for the upcoming annual budget, with the new rate approved and set for final review in September.
In August, AC’s Board of Trustees viewed the annual budget and tax-rate proposal the college’s administration submitted. Prior to approval, the board offered a public hearing, where members of the public are invited to lend their voices. Following this week’s public vote, the board will now move forward on final budget approval.
According to AC president Dr. Michael Simon, the approved tax rate for the upcoming rate will be .159115, which includes maintenance and operating (.145505), or 14.5 cents. The principal and interest is .013610, adding up to just a 7.19 increase in tax revenue for the college.
“I can’t express enough how much Angelina College appreciates the support Angelina County citizens have shown over the years,” Simon said. “We couldn’t be the college we are without their support and investment.”
Simon also stressed the importance of assuring the public that the trustees and administration are devoted to ensuring such an investment pays off for the entire community.
“They (trustees and administrators) see themselves as stewards of those dollars, and we want to make sure we get the absolute best return on value we possibly can for our taxpayers,” Simon said.
Simon also mentioned the “1/3, 1/3 and 1/3” approach, meaning the college strives to keep the taxpayer investment, the tuition fees, and the state reimbursement as close to balanced as possible to prevent extra burdens on the public. Currently, Simon said, AC’s tuition and fees generate more revenue than tax revenue does in the annual budget.
“We’ve really tried to be protective of our taxpayers and make sure we’re balancing our approach in how we build the revenue,” Simon said.
In return, Simon added, the college wants to reciprocate the public’s investment in every way possible. For example, AC has been diligent in obtaining federal monies such as Pell Grants to ensure students can afford to attend. According to Krista Brown, Associate Vice President of Student Services, AC awarded approximately $13 million in total aid in 2023-2024, with the college projected to award more than $15 million in 2024-2025.
The results are evident, as the college awarded degrees and certifications to nearly 700 graduates this past year – the highest number of graduates in several years.
Simon said in addition to newly qualified professionals, another benefit is an influx of revenue returned to area businesses.
“Those are federal dollars we bring in, and through our payroll and through our programs, the services we purchase locally – that money goes right back into this community,” Simon said. “It’s money that otherwise wouldn’t come into this area that we’re putting right back into the entire area’s economy.”
Just as important as the monetary returns, Simon added, is the human element.
“Not only are we a good investment because we put value back into the community, but I think of all the businesses that will say to me – both in the private and public sectors – ‘We couldn’t do it if we didn’t have AC nurses, or AC fire fighters or police officers, or AC accountants, or AC welders – all these professions we’re helping create right here on our campus through education and training,” Simon said. “Businesses can’t function without trained and qualified talent, and we have continued serving as a major resource for those needs for more than 50 years.”
Finally, Simon added, as Angelina College celebrates its 56th year of existence, the public deserves credit for the overall financial health of the institution, which regularly earns high marks from the governing bodies. The state performs a financial analysis of all 50 community college districts in Texas, Simon said, using the “same metrics one might use in a small business or even a household.”
“You’re looking at income vs. savings, a return on capital, those sorts of things,” Simon said. “And Angelina College’s financial health far exceeds the state’s minimum requirements in every one of those categories.
“That’s how we are ensuring that this college is here for this community for another 50 years.”
Join us on Friday, September 27 at 8 AM for September’s Power Networking Breakfast, presented by Angelina College SBDC! We are excited to welcome Denise Thompson, Account Leader at Etech as our featured speaker and monthly sponsor.
Location:
Chamber Community Room – 1615 S. Chestnut Lufkin
Come learn the importance of community involvement within your company. We will see you there!
Attendance is free! While registration is not required, it is strongly encouraged to help us plan accordingly. Register today at bit.ly/PNB-0924.
In a world where faith often intersects with hobbies, one man has created a unique way to blend his love for off-roading with his devotion to Christ. Dwayne Greenwood, founder of Jeepin for Jesus, started this movement seven years ago with a simple mission: to be a light in the off-roading community while sharing the message of faith in Jesus Christ. What began as a small Facebook group has grown into a thriving community of more than 21,000 followers, and its annual Off-Road Expo draws hundreds of participants each year.
A Vision Born in the Sand
Dwayne’s inspiration for Jeepin for Jesus came unexpectedly during an outing with his family to “Go Topless Weekend,” a popular off-roading event. What he anticipated would be a fun day of Jeep culture quickly turned into a heart-wrenching experience.
“I was heartbroken by all that I saw,” Dwayne shared. “Both men and women were heavily intoxicated, and there was nudity everywhere. As I sat there playing in the sand with my grandson, I prayed for God to send someone to be a light in this darkness. Then it hit me — God sent me there to be that light.”
That day, Jeepin for Jesus was born. It began as a humble Facebook group, where Dwayne could share his experiences and spread the message of faith in the off-roading community. Today, that group has swelled to more than 21,700 members and serves as a place of connection and encouragement for Jeep enthusiasts across the country who share a love for both off-roading and Jesus.
Faith and Off-Roading: A Unique Blend
Dwayne’s approach to blending faith and off-roading is simple but powerful. He likens the need for a “spotter” in off-roading — someone to help guide drivers through difficult trails — to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in life.
“When we go off-roading, we need a good ‘spotter’ to help guide us through the difficult trails, over obstacles, and down into the valleys,” Dwayne explained. “The same is true with our faith. Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we’ll find ourselves upside down in a ditch. But when we listen to Him, He guides us along the path of righteousness, and we stand amazed at His goodness when we make it through the other side.”
A Growing Event
The Jeepin for Jesus Off-Road Expo started seven years ago, and with each passing year, it has grown beyond expectations. What began as a small gathering of Jeep enthusiasts has now become a staple event in the Texas Forest Country region, attracting families from across the state.
“Our goal from the beginning was to create an event that the entire family could enjoy,” Dwayne said. “We want people to put down their phones and get outside, enjoy fellowship with their neighbors, and have fun with their families.”
The event is free to attend, making it accessible to everyone, and this year promises to be the biggest yet. For the first time, a petting zoo will be included, along with favorites like the Show and Shine, flex ramp, car crush, and raffles. Dwayne, however, is most excited about the people who attend.
“As much as I love the Jeeps, the vendors, and the activities, it’s the people that make this event special,” Dwayne said. “Seeing smiles on faces and hearing laughter — that’s what makes it all worth it.”
Fun for the Whole Family
What sets Jeepin for Jesus apart from other off-roading events is its clear focus on family. Dwayne and his team work hard to ensure that every family member — from toddlers to adults — has something to enjoy.
“We’ve always wanted this event to be family-friendly,” Dwayne explained. “We’ve got amazing vehicles to show off, great vendors, and a petting zoo this year to make sure the kids have something to enjoy, too.”
By offering free admission, Jeepin for Jesus removes any financial barriers that might prevent families from attending. The result is an inclusive, fun-filled day that everyone can enjoy.
Impact and Community Outreach
Beyond the fun and fellowship, Jeepin for Jesus has become a force for good in the community. The organization frequently participates in outreach activities, including speaking engagements at schools, churches, and drug rehab centers, feeding the homeless, and even attending “Go Topless” weekends to hand out free water, snacks, and Bibles.
“We aren’t there to scare the hell out of people,” Dwayne said with a smile. “We’re there to love the hell out of people. Once people understand what our mission is, they usually accept us, and many even support our efforts.”
The most rewarding part of Jeepin for Jesus for Dwayne has been seeing lives changed and people touched by the message of love and faith.
“We realize not everyone will understand our way of doing things, but this is what God put on my heart seven years ago, and it’s been an amazing ride,” Dwayne said. “I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
Looking to the Future
While the Off-Road Expo continues to grow, Dwayne and the Jeepin for Jesus team have their sights set on an even bigger event next April — Jeep Beach in Daytona, Florida. This will be the largest event they’ve attended, with 25,000 Jeeps and over 250,000 attendees expected.
“I don’t know what the future holds,” Dwayne said, “but I know who holds it. We are simply a group of Jeepers who love Jesus and have a passion for reaching those who do not know Him yet.”
As for the future of Jeepin for Jesus, Dwayne remains committed to following wherever the Spirit leads. “As long as God allows me, I’ll keep Jeepin for Jesus. It’s been a heck of a ride, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”
For more information on Jeepin for Jesus and the upcoming Off-Road Expo, visit jeepinforjesus.com or follow their Facebook page. Be sure and attend this Saturday, 9/14/2024. Visit the event page here.
LUFKIN – Crews are scheduled next week to replace striping on the concrete pavement at the US 59 and BU 59/SL 287 South Interchange in Lufkin. The work is scheduled to be done at night, with minimal work conducted during the day.
Motorists should plan for slight delays and detours if traveling during work hours. The work on US 59 will be from the Tulane overpass to the Whitehouse overpass and will include frontage roads from SL 287 from the Tulane Bridge to the end of the concrete pavement. Existing striping will be removed, including stop bars and crosswalk striping. Each night through the week, crews will replace the striping that has been removed.
Stripe-A-Zone, Grand Prairie TX, will serve as contractor for the work that should be completed by Sept. 20, weather permitting.
“This is an extremely busy area with lots of traffic,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer. “Motorists are urged to reduce speed through the work zone if traveling during nighttime hours. There should be minimal impact to traffic during daytime hours. TxDOT urges motorists to expect delays, and obey all traffic control through this area.”
AUSTIN — Texans who sustained losses from Hurricane Beryl have one month remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is October 10, 2024.
Since the disaster declaration in July, FEMA has helped nearly 673,700 Texas households with $704.7 million in financial assistance. FEMA specialists have been working in 22 counties helping people apply for assistance.
FEMA crews have visited 174,203 homes and 9,285 public locations. More than 45,000 residents have visited the 42 Disaster Recovery Centers located within the state. More than 26,100 families have stayed in hotels temporarily at the expense of the State and FEMA because they could not return to their homes.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $247.8 million in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations, and businesses affected by Beryl.
Homeowners and renters in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties with uninsured losses from Hurricane Beryl may be eligible for FEMA assistance.
Texans have several options for how to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters can:
▪ Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
▪ Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
▪ Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
▪ Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc. Disaster Recovery Centers operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday.
Learn more at fema.gov/disaster/4798 September 2024
DR 4798-TX NR-XX One Month Remains to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Texas
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations, and businesses of any size. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster or by calling 800-659-2955. SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at the Disaster Recovery Centers throughout the affected area. Business Recovery Centers are operating at the University of Houston Downtown Marilyn Davies College of Business, Trini Mendenhall Community Center in Houston and East Montgomery County Improvement District in Montgomery County.
For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at @femaregion6.
Join us for the 40th Annual Texas State Forest Festival, presented by Brookshire Brothers, from September 19-22! Located at George H. Henderson Jr. Expo Center, Lufkin Texas.
Get ready for four days of non-stop fun and entertainment, including:
– Thrilling carnival rides
– Live music at the Swinging Axe stage, thanks to Visit Lufkin
– ♂️ The 5th Annual Lumber-JACKED 5K & Fun Run, presented by S&W Expert Collision Repair
– Delicious food from BBQ to fresh-squeezed lemonade
– Local brews from Rusty Axe Brewing Company
– Bear Hollow Wood Carver live carving
– The 3rd Annual Big Axe BBQ Competition, presented by Ferrara’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc
– New this year – Washer Tournament, presented by McWilliams Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
– Pineywoods Car Show, presented by Bryan’s Paint and Body
– East Texas Cheerleading & Pom/Dance Championships, presented by Integra Insurance
– New shows like Scott’s World of Magic and the Off-Axis Stunt Show
– The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show
– Children’s Festival, presented by Hijinx Trampoline Park and hosted by Angelina Beautiful/Clean and Texas Forestry Museum
– ️ Vendor Market Days for unique shopping on Saturday & Sunday
Visit TexasStateForestFestival.com for all the details, including entry forms, ticket prices, volunteer opportunities, and schedules. Don’t miss out on this incredible event – bring your family and friends for a weekend of unforgettable fun!
