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TxDOT Prepares for Impacts of Storm in East Texas

By
Rhonda Oaks
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LUFKIN – As Tropical Storm Francine approaches the Texas/Louisiana Gulf Coast, TxDOT wants motorists to be prepared for possible heavy rainfall that could impact East Texas. Francine is expected to grow to Hurricane strength by landfall on Wednesday, but rain is expected on Wednesday in the Lufkin District ahead of the storm’s landfall.

Lufkin District crews are preparing and will monitor roadways, ditches, and other areas prone to flooding throughout the day on Wednesday and into Thursday.

“Our crews stand ready to respond to any impact that might be felt from Francine here in the Lufkin District,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer. “While it appears Louisiana will feel the major impacts of this storm, TxDOT crews will be prepared to assist other districts to the south, should they need it. Here at home, we urge motorists to slow down, and prepare your home and family ahead of time.”

To be prepared for possible flash flooding, which is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas, remember these safety tips:

  • Turn Around, Don’t Drown
  • Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
  • Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving. 
  • Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
  • If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it, and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.

Texas law states that motorists should never drive around barricades blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include fines up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail. Also, tampering with roadway signs or barricades is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to two years in jail. For more information on preparing for flash flooding, visit https://www.txdot.gov/safety/severe-weather.html. 

For more information about hurricane safety and how to prepare for hurricane impacts, visit https://www.txdot.gov/safety/severe-weather/hurricane-preparation.html

For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or call (936) 404-7485.

Chamber Lunch and Learn Event (Jasper County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Save the Date! Join us for a lunch & learn networking day. Specialty coffee bar, lunch and door prizes along with our keynote speakers, Eddie Hopkins, Nick the Wifi Guy and Jeremy Raley with Crime Stoppers, will make this an event to be sure not to miss! Seating is limited, please contact the Chamber as soon as possible to “Save a Seat.” This event is sponsored by; Hollis Tire, Green Star Realty, Jasper Java, First Insurance, Wiliford & Son, OCBM, Bobbie’s Bokay, Down Home Roots Herbal.

I will see everyone on Tuesday for the Jasper-Lake Sam Rayburn Chamber’s Lunch & Learn! What’s better than serving the public with knowledge and food!! We have a full house and look forward to seeing everyone for this event!

Date/Time Information:
September 10, 2024, from 10:30 am to 12 pm

Location:
500 South Wheeler St., Jasper, TX, United States, Texas 75951

Angelina College Weekly Update 

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

Another big week at AC Athletics, with our men’s soccer team climbing a few notches in the national rankings – and backing the rise with a huge win over another ranked team – and the new website scheduled to make its appearance this very week. 

Baseball has started its fall schedule, and softball is coming in right behind the guys.

Here’s a quick rundown of the week’s events, along with what’s coming up next: 

No. 5 Roadrunners Take Two Wins This Week

On Monday, the Roadrunner men’s soccer team learned it had made an impressive jump in the NJCAA Division I national rankings, with AC moving from No. 8 to No. 5 following a pair of impressive, season-opening wins in Week 1.

This past week, the ‘Runners showed they’re worthy of such lofty regards.

AC began the week with a hard-fought road win at Paris Junior College, taking the 3-2 win on a late goal (83rd minute) from Elias Taj to seal the match. Earlier, Mario Bedford managed to catch the Dragon keeper out of the net and lofted a shot over the defense and into the net; and AC’s Patricio Villalobos scored on a direct kick in the 48th minute, ripping his kick past both the Paris wall and the keeper. 

AC then faced its toughest challenge of the young season on Friday, hosting the No. 8 LSU-Eunice Bengals – a team that has traditionally given the Roadrunners fits.

The only “fits” taking place on Friday were the ways the AC offense managed to fit the ball into the net in an impressive 4-0 win in front of the home crowd.

With the teams waging their typical, physical battle throughout the first half, the score remained level until Filliph Kamfjord took a beautiful cross from teammate Samuel Bouable and tucked the shot away for a 1-0 lead with just 33 seconds remaining before the break. 

In the second half, the relentless Roadrunner attack broke all the way through the LSU-E defense. Bouable – who would finish the match with three assists – fed Unathi Radebe for a goal in the 60th minute. AC’s Elias Taj received a sliding pass from Kamfjord across the box for the 3-0 lead; and Eldon Reneau capped the scoring with a beauty of a lob over the Bengal keeper despite having a defender dragging him down from behind. 

The Roadrunners (4-0) get a break this week before hitting the road for some key matches. AC travels to Tyler Junior College on Tuesday, Sept. 17 and to Blinn College on Friday, Sept. 20.

The ‘Runners’ next home match is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 24 against Ranger College. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. 

Lady Roadrunners Split Conference Games This Week

AC’s ladies picked up a tough road win Tuesday at Paris Junior College, overcoming a scoreless first half to pick up two key goals in the second.

Estephany Aguilar fed Paula Suarez for a goal in the 51st minute, and Michelle Naderman converted Sarah Riboe’s dish for another score to lead the Lady Roadrunners to the 2-1 win.

On Friday, the Lady Roadrunners fell to a tough Trinity Valley Community College team, losing 2-0 to fall to 2-2 on the season. 

AC travels to Corsicana to face Navarro College on Tuesday. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. 

Live streaming is available on the Navarro College YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/live/xqZlcJuygmU?si=64OE98ah9XmXTGkH

IT’S HERE: Changes, Upgrades Coming to AC Athletics Web Site

Following months of anticipation, the new-look Angelina College Athletics website is scheduled for its big rollout later this week. The site will incorporate social media, along with several other user-friendly tools – not to mention looking just plain cool.

NOTE: As is always the case with such a big transition, we anticipate glitches along the way. It may take some time to iron those out, so it’s a good idea to follow possible schedule changes on our social media sites: the Angelina College Athletics Facebook page or @ACAthletics on X (formerly known as Twitter). 

The website’s address will remain the same: www.angelinaathletics.com. 

Baseball’s Fall Season Off to Quick Start

The ‘Runner baseball team opened its fall season on Friday, played again on Sunday and is heading toward this weekend’s Roadrunner Round Robin Tournament, scheduled to run Sept. 13-15 at Poland Stadium on the AC campus. 

Currently, the ‘Runners’ schedule for the weekend is as follows:

Friday, Sept. 13: AC vs. Temple College, 12 p.m.; AC vs. Navarro College, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 14: AC vs. Panola College, 10 a.m.; AC vs. Bossier Parish Community College, 7 p.m. 

Roadrunner Baseball Fall Schedule: https://angelina.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/schedule

Softball’s Fall Opener Drawing Near

The Lady Roadrunners’ softball team will also get its fall schedule into full swing starting with a home doubleheader on Saturday, Sept. 14 against the Houston Nitro. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m. 

Lady Roadrunner Softball Fall Schedule: https://angelina.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/schedule

Live Streaming Reminder: 

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. 

Once TSBN posts its schedules, AC fans simply need to visit the AC Athletics website, look at the scrolling schedule on the right and click the blue “Video” link. 

TSBN also offers an app great for smartphones, 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 10: 

Lady Roadrunner Soccer at Navarro College, 4:30 p.m., Corsicana, TX

Friday, Sept. 13: 

  Roadrunner Baseball: AC vs. Temple College, 12 p.m.; AC vs. Navarro College, 6 p.m., Poland Stadium on the AC campus. 

Saturday, Sept. 14: 

Roadrunner Baseball: AC vs. Panola College, 10 a.m.; AC vs. Bossier Parish Community College, 7 p.m., Poland Stadium on the AC campus. 

Lady Roadrunner Softball: AC vs. Nitro 18U, doubleheader starting at 2 p.m., Lady Roadrunner Field on the AC campus. 

For any other information, contact Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu. 

We’ll see you at the games.

(Soccer photos by Gary Stallard and Clara Sonet)

Gary Stallard
Email: gstallard@angelina.edu.
Phone: (936) 465-4614

Texas A&M Forest Service Associate Director Bill Oates Retires

By
Lee Allen Miller
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COLLEGE STATION, Texas— After 43 years of leadership and dedication to Texas A&M Forest Service, Bill Oates, Associate Director and private landowner rights champion, retires.

Oates—known in the agency and around the state as an outspoken personality—might surprise you. His ceiling-high collection of 1970s soft and acid rock vinyl records rings through the halls from the stereo speakers almost every day of the week. The era and artist selection of the day is entirely unpredictable—Elton John today, maybe Lynyrd Skynyrd tomorrow.

Holding a conversation with Oates has one simple challenge: you must hold the conversation over his music. If you can cut through the sound, Oates may start by exclaiming, “I don’t have a good memory,” before recollecting a four-decade-old story like it happened yesterday.

His eclecticism and deep tie to historical knowledge of forestry led him to become an energetic driving force throughout the agency and Southeast U.S. in diverse ways.

Oates began his career with the agency in Jacksonville, Texas, as a forester in 1981 following his graduation from Stephen F. Austin University. From his first day on the job, he was in love with forestry and the many adventures that came with it, including fighting wildfires.

Following his first stationing in Jacksonville and the start of his family, Oates was relocated nearly seven times throughout East Texas during which he was named a District Forester in 1984 and a Regional Forester in 1996. Throughout his time in East Texas, Oates displayed his strong connection to the forests and people around him, leading to his promotion to Chief Regional Forester in 2003, where he oversaw all forestry operations in East Texas.

The relocations and duties of a forester came naturally to Oates as he is the son of a USDA Forest Service forester—a career that relocated his family to several states across the Southeast U.S. throughout his childhood. His exposure to the world of forestry through the lens of his dad is what he credits as his earliest and continuous driving passion for forestry.

“My dad once brought home a radio the size of a microwave,” Oates reflects. “This radio is what connected us [the family] to my dad when he was away fighting wildfires. He would radio my mom at night to let her know he was safe.”

Soon, Oates didn’t wait for his dad to call his mom on the radio. Instead, he would endlessly sit by the radio listening to the firefighters and dispatch communication, adding fuel to his ambition of the impact he would later have as a forester.

Oates carried that ambition and knowledge in forestry back to his alma mater, where he taught several forest policy classes in his spare time, which he refers to as one of the most fulfilling experiences of his career.

Before the agency’s mission restructuring in the early 2000s, he shared that the agency’s scope was more limited to East Texas, and very seldom would they leave the region to combat wildfires in Central and West Texas.

However, when he was dispatched to locations outside of East Texas, the thrill of fighting wildfires in a new environment kept him going back for more.

Oates’ career shifted away from on-the-ground forestry and firefighting and more into executive leadership in College Station in 2008 when he was named the Associate Director of Forest Resource Development. In this leadership role, Oates oversaw programs including Forest Stewardship, Urban Forestry, Forest Health, Forest Inventory and Analysis, Water Quality, and Economic Development. 

In West Texas, Oates was an instrumental catalyst for Operation Ponderosa, a long-term restoration project that has replanted more than 2,000 Ponderosa pine trees in the Davis Mountains since 2014. 

During his tenure in College Station, Oates picked up a new hobby that satisfied his lifelong interest in history. Among the vinyl covers and loose papers in his office sit dust-free artifacts and photographs dating back to the agency’s founding in 1915. He began the motley collection by assisting the curators of the agency’s centennial celebration in 2015 to source historical memorabilia like film and video negatives. Doing so led him to a deeper understanding of the values of the agency.

“I learned so much about the agency that I didn’t know before by taking on this project,” said Oates. “By seeing and reading what the early agency founders did, they were humanized in a certain way.”

Oates was also a forestry leader beyond the agency. He has been a member of the Texas Forestry Association since 1981 and was the organization’s first certified forester. Throughout his time with the Texas Forestry Association, Oates served as a board member and later as the president in 2015.

With 43 years in the industry, Oates said that a lot has changed but the mission and strategies of a forester have remained constant.

“The biggest change I’ve seen in Texas forestry has been within the integrated forest products industry,” Oates said. “Nearly 35% of East Texas land was once owned or managed by forest product companies, but they experienced a large divestiture which added a new complexity for forestry and how we connected with landowners in the area.”

Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service Deputy Director, shared that Oates’ impact in forestry exceeds his colorful personality and that his leadership was a catalyst for change within forestry and the state.

“Bill was a champion of private landowner rights,” said Moorehead. “He made sure that Texas landowners were able to practice sustainable forestry, which includes practices such as prescribed fire, to ensure the forests of tomorrow are strong and healthy.”

Oates is the recipient of many awards including the Texas Forestry Association Lifetime Leadership Award in 2022, the Society of American Foresters Leadership Award in 1992, the Texas A&M University System’s Regent Fellow Service Award in 2015 and the Laurence C. Walker Distinguished Service Forestry Award in 2020.

Upon reflecting on his idea of Oates’ legacy, Moorehead shared, “Bill will be remembered for the work he did to make sure Texas forests were sustained and properly managed for all to benefit for generations to come.”

As his legacy is marked on the state and he looks forward to retirement, Oates has no definitive plans, but he imagines his days will be filled with playing golf and spending more time with his family.

Chadderbox Hobby Shop Grows from YouTube to Community Hub

By
Caiden Cruse
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0

With a foundation built on community and a future full of potential, Chadderbox Hobby Shop is more than just a place to buy cards and games — it’s a place where memories are made, and friendships are forged.

Chadderbox Hobby Shop: From YouTube Channel to a Community Hub

What started as a small hobby has blossomed into a community destination in Lufkin. Chad Fisher, owner of the Chadderbox Hobby Shop, has transformed a passion for collectibles into a successful business, offering not just products but a place for families and enthusiasts to gather, share, and play. Located at the Lufkin Mall , the Chadderbox Hobby Shop is quickly becoming a favorite among local families, offering Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), and much more.

From Online to In-Store: The Journey of Chadderbox

The story of Chadderbox Hobby Shop began four years ago as a YouTube channel. Chad Fisher and his kids would open Pokémon cards on camera, sharing their excitement with viewers. However, as the pandemic hit and distribution chains were disrupted, finding Pokémon cards in stores became increasingly difficult. Chad made a pivotal decision: if he couldn’t buy the products at a reasonable price, he’d find a way to bring them directly to the community.

After seeing the rise and fall of the Pokémon market during the COVID-19 era, Chad opened a stall at the Angelina County Farmer’s Market, bringing his hobby to a physical location. It quickly became a hit. Families shopping for produce would stop by, not just for fresh tomatoes but for the latest Pokémon cards. His prices were fair, his products plentiful, and before long, Chadderbox Hobby Shop became a permanent fixture in the market.

“We had parents coming in with their kids, excited to see Pokémon products at reasonable prices,” Chad recalls. “It was something fun for the kids while their parents shopped, and it became more than just a purchase — it became an experience.”

Expanding to Meet Community Demand

After finding success at the Farmer’s Market, Chad decided to take the next step and open a full storefront. Located indoors, this new space allowed for more products, better conditions for collectibles (no more battling the East Texas humidity), and the ability to hold events.

When two other local hobby shops closed — Joker’s Dugout and Absolutely Fiction — a void was left in the local gaming community.

Chadderbox Hobby Shop stepped in to fill it.

“We had Magic: The Gathering players, Yu-Gi-Oh! enthusiasts, and D&D fans looking for a place to gather. I knew this was an opportunity to provide a hub for all these communities,” Chad explains.

Now, Chadderbox Hobby Shop offers weekly events, including:

  • Magic: The Gathering Friday Night Magic: A staple for competitive Magic players in the area.
  • D&D Nights: A gathering for Dungeons & Dragons players looking to embark on epic adventures.
  • Yu-Gi-Oh! and Pokémon Leagues: Weekly play for collectors and enthusiasts of all ages.

Chad has big plans for the future, hoping to grow Chadderbox into “Lufkin’s very own Toys ‘R’ Us.” With his eyes on expanding inventory and offering even more events and products, Chad sees Chatdderbox becoming a destination for hobbyists throughout the region.

Building a Community, One Game at a Time

More than just a shop, Chadderbox has built a sense of community for local collectors and gamers. Whether it’s teaching a child how to play their first Pokémon card game or hosting a competitive Magic tournament, Chadderbox is about more than just selling products — it’s about creating connections.

“We’re not just a retail space. We’re a community. People come here to play, to hang out, and to feel part of something bigger. Whether it’s a parent coming in to learn Magic with their kid or longtime friends meeting for a D&D session, we’re all about bringing people together,” Chad says.

The Chadderbox Hobby Shop is open to all ages, offering a welcoming environment for families, casual players, and hardcore gamers alike. From learning the basics to competing in tournaments, there’s something for everyone at Chadderbox.

Looking Ahead

Chad Fisher’s journey from a YouTube channel to a community hub is a testament to passion and perseverance. With big plans to expand inventory, introduce new events, and continue to build the local gaming community, Chadderbox Hobby Shop is set to grow even further in the coming years.

For more information or to learn about upcoming events, visit Chadderbox Hobby Shop at the Angelina County Farmer’s Market or follow them on social media for the latest updates.

Chadderbox Hobby Shop

  • Location: 4600 S Medford Dr #1144, Lufkin, Texas
  • Hours: Open Monday through Friday 11am- 7 pm, and Saturday 11am to 8pm and Sundays 12pm-6pm
  • Events: Check out their website for weekly events, including Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon tournaments.

With a foundation built on community and a future full of potential, Chadderbox Hobby Shop is more than just a place to buy cards and games — it’s a place where memories are made, and friendships are forged.

Not Really Loving Those Lovebugs?

By
Cary Sims
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0

I saw my first one earlier last week, on the 2nd day of September. A mated pair of lovebugs, and ‘love’ was not the first thought to come into my mind. Few insects bring as much contempt as the lovebug.   

The lovebug is most common in May and September annually, and brings nothing but contempt.  It may be best known for splattering across your windshield and causing damage to the paint on your vehicle. Mind you, this is an insect that does not bite, does not sting, doesn’t carry disease, won’t harm livestock, and doesn’t damage crops. 

And still, there’s just nothing to love about a lovebug.

From recorded accounts, lovebugs (Plecia nearctica) were established in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico.  They are reported to naturally have migrated from Central America into Texas in the early 1900’s staying (originally) close to the gulf shore.  

The lovebug was first described in 1940 by a young, 26-year-old entomologist by the name of D. Elmo Hardy in Galveston, Texas. At the time, he reported the incidence of lovebugs to be widespread, but most common in Texas and Louisiana.  

There is a common myth that lovebugs are from Florida.  There is an even more insidious myth that lovebugs were either imported or “developed” in a lab by Florida scientists to get rid of mosquitoes. While preposterous and completely false, the myth still persists. Lovebugs are herbivores that feed on plant material. They arrived in the Florida peninsula in the 1950’s. 

They continued their movement north along the Atlantic shore and were discovered in South Carolina in 1975.  In 2006, it was reported as far north as Topsail Beach, north of Wilmington, North Carolina.

I was surprised to learn that lovebugs are active all year long.  It is only in the insect’s adult stage that we notice its flight in May and August (or September). 

Now we all know that an insect goes thru three stages: egg then larvae then adult. It follows then, that the lovebug is the adult form that we notice twice a year in May and August/
September.  The adult female lovebug can lay from 100-500 eggs after mating.  These eggs hatch and the larvae then feed on decomposing organic matter in the other months where we don’t see them.  

Lovebug larvae can be found in your lawn’s thatch and under cow manure, among many other sites.  From a truly environmentalist point of view, they are described by some folks as beneficial insects because they help break down organic matter!

Lovebug adults are attracted to light-colored surfaces, especially if they are freshly painted, but the adults can congregate almost anywhere by reacting to the effects of sunlight on automobile fumes, asphalt, and other environmental factors that are still not completely understood.

Officially, lovebugs are considered a nuisance pest by almost everyone. While you and I are certainly tired of dealing with them, their lack of “impact” on food production and human health puts them quite low on the list of problematic pests that researchers are working on.  To be blunt, unless lovebugs start spreading disease, damaging livestock or food crops, there is little chance that we’ll have any breakthroughs in their control or abatement. 

Their main damage is to your car or truck.  Smeared guts across your windshield can make driving hazardous.  An incredibly excessive number in your vehicle’s radiator may cause it to overheat. But the primary problem we fuss and fume over is the condition to the paint and other surfaces that the innards of the lovebug stick adhere. 

There are several ‘home remedies’ to help minimize the damage they do to vehicles that involve some oily spray or wax to prevent them from sticking to your car. I’m hoping that their lifecycle was greatly interrupted by natural causes this year.

Funding Opportunities Available to East Texas Landowners for Prescribed Burning

By
Lee Allen Miller
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0

COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Texas A&M Forest Service is offering more than $800,000 in grants to help East Texas landowners offset the cost of prescribed fire to reduce wildfire risks and restore ecosystems.

The grant application is now available for eligible landowners conducting prescribed burns on their property by certified and insured prescribed burn managers. The deadline to apply is Sept. 30. Eligible landowners may receive reimbursement for up to $30 per acre for the costs of the prescribed burn, but rates may vary.

Available grants in this application cycle include the Neches River and Cypress Basin Watershed Restoration Program (NRCBW), Community Protection Program (CPP), and State Fire Capacity near Federal lands in East Texas Prescribed Fire Grant (SFC-ETX).

Prescribed fire is a land management practice with numerous benefits, including the reduction of wildfire hazards, habitat restoration and soil health improvement. The allocation of grant funds will prioritize wildfire hazard mitigation that emphasizes the protection of homes, communities, and natural ecosystems.

“Prescribed fire is the most cost-effective method to manage the understory vegetation and dead fuel that accumulates in our forests over time,” said Andy McCrady, Texas A&M Forest Service Program Coordinator. “Heavy spring rains in East Texas increased the summer fuel growth, so using prescribed burns in winter and spring 2025 will help reduce wildfire risks before the next season of drought.”

Last year, Texas A&M Forest Service prescribed fire grant programs awarded more than $293,000 to landowners across the state to assist with treating 10,969 acres of privately owned land.

Texas A&M Forest Service does not conduct these prescribed burns. Grant recipients must be licensed or utilize a contractor who is licensed by the Texas Department of Agriculture as a certified and insured prescribed burn manager.

To determine eligibility and access the online application for the NRCBW, CPP and SFC-ETX grants, visit http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/cppgrant/.

For additional grant programs available to Texas landowners, please visit https://texasforestinfo.tamu.edu/fundingconnector/.

Justice is Served (Jasper County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

Justice is Served… is just around the corner!

Join us at Elijah’s in Jasper on September 13th from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. for this annual fundraising event benefiting CASA of the Sabine Neches Region. Don’t miss out! Full breakfast provided.

Location: 
Elijah’s Cafe, Jasper TX

Tickets and Sponsorships available.

Angelina College Weekly Update 

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

We hope you had a great holiday weekend, and we hope you got some rest. Things are only going to get busier around here.

This past week saw our soccer teams earn some big wins – including Lady Roadrunner first-year head coach Sergio Gardea notching his first win with the program – with some even bigger games heading this way.

In addition, AC Baseball opens its Fall Ball schedule this week, with the softball team’s fall opener right around the corner.

Quick note: With all the wonky weather in store for us over the next couple of weeks, the best way to keep up with any potential schedule changes is by visiting the AC Athletics website (www.angelinaathletics.edu). We’ll post any schedule changes there immediately.

Here’s a quick rundown of the week’s events, along with what’s coming up next: 

Lady Roadrunners Rout NTCC for First Win of Season

The Lady Roadrunner soccer team earned its first win of the young season, rolling past Northeast Texas Community College by a 4-0 final Friday at the Larry Phillips Family Athletics Complex on the AC campus.

The win also gave first-year head coach Sergio Gardea his first win with his new program.

An aggressive Lady ‘Runner team set the tone early, with Sarah Riboe putting on a spin move in the box to score on an Estephany Aguilar assist just 90 seconds into the match. Barely seven minutes later, AC’s Paula Suarez found the net off a deflection for a quick 2-0 Lady ‘Runner lead.

In the 38th minute, Aguilar picked up her second assist of the match, feeding Camila Rico for the score. Tannia Diaz would cap the AC scoring in the 63rd minute, drawing and converting a penalty kick after getting tackled from behind in the box.

AC’s ladies also played stellar defense, ensuring Lady ‘Runner keeper Deanna Boon would stay relatively bored in the net. NTCC managed just one shot on goal the entire match, with Boon easily picking it off for the save. 

The Lady Roadrunners (1-1) travel to Paris College on Tuesday for a 2 p.m. kickoff. AC’s ladies then return home on Friday for a match against Trinity Valley Community College. Starting time is 5 p.m., and the game will be live streamed on TSBN Sports (https://tsbnsports.com/scoreboard/trinity-valley-vs-angelina-soccer-women/)

No. 8 Roadrunners Take Two Wins This Week

Having a national ranking attached to one’s name is the same as carrying a target on one’s back. Every opponent wants to be the one to post an upset.

Friday’s match between the No. 8 Roadrunners and the visiting Eagles of Northeast Texas Community College proved the theory, with the teams waging an intense battle – in a sometimes driving rain – before a very late goal decided the match in AC’s favor.

Abdallah Traore scored off a set piece, taking a corner kick from Luis Perez and heading it into the net in the 80th minute for the match’s only score in the ‘Runners’ 1-0 win. 

With the first half featuring chances for both sides only to end in a scoreless draw, the Roadrunners cranked up the offensive pressure in the second half, spending a full 20 minutes on the Eagles’ end of the pitch before Traore finally broke through with his goal.

Earlier in the week, the ‘Runners got five goals from five different players to hammer Western Texas College 5-0 at home. Mads Holm, Abdallah Traore, Samuel Bouable, Unathi Radebe and Elias Taj each found the nets, with Filliph Kamfjord accounting for two assists. Enric0 Singh, Patricio Villalobos and Jan Gutzeit also dished out assists, and keeper Casper Madsen finished the match with four saves. 

The ‘Runners on Tuesday will travel to Paris College for a match scheduled for a 4 p.m. kickoff.  

AC’s men return home on Friday to face LSU-Eunice, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. That match will be live streamed here: https://tsbnsports.com/scoreboard/lsu-eunice-vs-angelina-soccer-men/

Baseball’s Fall Season Opens This Week:

For baseball fans ready to get a jump on the 2025 season, the Roadrunner baseball team will offer its previews throughout the Fall Ball season starting this week.

AC travels to Alvin College on Friday for a 1 p.m. start; the ‘Runners then play a Sunday matinee against the Houston Heat, also scheduled for a 1 p.m. start at Poland Stadium on the AC campus.

AC will host the Roadrunner Round Robin Tournament the weekend of Sept. 13-15. 

Roadrunner Baseball Fall Schedule: https://angelina.prestosports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/schedule

Softball’s Fall Opener Drawing Near

The Lady Roadrunners’ softball team also will get its fall schedule into full swing starting with a home doubleheader on Saturday, Sept. 14 against the Houston Nitro. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m. 

Lady Roadrunner Softball Fall Schedule: https://angelina.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/schedule

Changes, Upgrades Coming to AC Athletics Web Site, Social Media

We’re gonna need a bigger website. 

Angelina College Athletics’ official website (www.angelinaathletics.com) and all related social media have been getting much-needed overhauls throughout this summer. Joining our staff are some true website and graphics wizards, and they’re going to help with the redesign and upkeep of all our forms of internet and social media presence going forward. 

Our tentative launch date for all the new-look website is mid-September. That’s when we’re hoping to reveal the new website, along with all the revamped (and possibly reborn) social media sites. For now, the “old” website will continue to post information. 

In the meantime, we’ll be posting on all those sites to make everyone aware of the coming changes. Some of the current sites need only a little updating, while others may have to disappear completely in order to make room for the new version.

As always, we’ll keep you updated all the way up until the big launch date.  

Live Streaming Reminder: 

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. 

Once TSBN posts its schedules, AC fans simply need to visit the AC Athletics web site, look at the scrolling schedule on the right 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 3: 

Lady Roadrunner Soccer at Paris College, 2 p.m., Paris, TX

Roadrunner Soccer at Paris College, 4 p.m., Paris, TX

Friday, Sept. 6: 

Roadrunner Baseball at Alvin College, 1 p.m., Alvin, TX

Lady Roadrunner Soccer vs. TVCC, 5 p.m., AC Soccer Complex

Roadrunner Soccer vs. LSU-Eunice, 7:30 p.m., AC Soccer Complex

Sunday, Sept. 8:

Roadrunner Baseball vs. Houston Heat, 1 p.m., Poland Stadium on the AC campus

For any other information, contact Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu. 

We’ll see you at the games.

(Soccer photos by Maria Andrade, Clara Sonet and Shea Williams)

Gary Stallard
Email: gstallard@angelina.edu.
Phone: (936) 465-4614

Angelina College Releases List of 2024 Summer Graduates

By
Gary Stallard
-
0

More than 130 Students Earn Degrees, Certifications

Angelina College is pleased to release the list of graduates following Summer 2024 courses. More than 130 students received their degrees and/or certifications in various fields of study. These conferred degrees and certifications encompass all graduates from Summer I and Summer II of 2024.

Following is the list divided by hometown of record and including the applicable degrees and/or certifications earned. (Cities are in Texas unless otherwise specified.)

Alto

Esperanza J. Cuevas, CERT-2 Vocational Nursing-MEEP; and Brandin S. Rodriguez, CERT-2 Vocational Nursing-MEEP.

Baytown

Walton J. Jack, AA, Business Administration and Management. 

Beaumont

Toriah J. Beaty, AA, General Studies. 

Bryan

 Halee E. Hernandez, AA, General Studies. 

Burke

Skyler A. Martin, AA, General Studies. 

Call

Kristin R. Peterson, AA, General Studies.

Center

Shaquanna L. Houston, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-Administrative; and Bonnie J. McClain, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-CDA Level 1. 

Chireno

Damian Santaclara, AA, General Studies. 

Cleveland

Abby R. Hernandez, AS, Health Science. 

Colmesneil

Eric M. Davis, CERT-1, Diesel Technology. 

Crockett

Ariana Gonzalez, AA, General Studies; and Janeta M. Taylor, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-Administrative. 

Cypress

Keddric D. Mays, AA, General Studies. 

Diboll

Irvin B. Hurtado, AA, General Studies; Alicia Ibarra Villanueva, AAS, Criminal Justice; Julian M. Rios, CERT-1, EMT-Maintenance Technician Specialty; Briana N. Terrazas, AA, Business Administration and Management; and Desiree D. Walker, AA, Business Administration and Management. 

Elkhart

Emily L. Parker, CERT-1, Child and Family Development – CDA Level 1. 

Goodrich

Lidia Merino, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Gabriela Silva, AA, Business Administration and Management; and Brittney N. Snowden, AAS, Pharmacy Technology. 

Groveton

Juan P. Facio, AAS, Welding Technology. 

Hemphill

Patricia D. Snodgrass, AAS, Child and Family Development. 

Houston

Juan M. Charria, AA, General Studies; and Xavier C.A. Owens, AA, Health and Physical Education. 

Hudson

Lauren E. Burns, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP. 

Huntington

Deysi M. Colon, CERT-1, Business and Supervision; Colby R. Curtis, AAS, Electronics Technology, CERT-1 Electronics Technology-Basic Networking Specialty; Haley M. Drahos, AAS, Paralegal-Legal Assistant; Cindy E. Molina, AAT, Teaching; Angel E. Rocha, CERT-1, Diesel Technology; Jazmine Santoyo-Arias, AA, Business Administration and Management; and Izabel V. Valdez, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing. 

Livingston

Patrick S. Battise, AAS, Criminal Justice; Jerry W. Bowen, CERT-1, Intermediate Welding; Tyler A. Jackson, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Brooke Pond, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-Administrative; Brooklyn R. Seagroves, AA, Health and Physical Education; Britton C. Shoellhorn, CERT-1, Criminal Justice Core Level 1; and Jayden K. Shoellhorn, CERT-1, Criminal Justice Core Level 1. 

Lovelady

Marlen Vs. Sandoval, AS, Health Science. 

Lufkin

Juana M. Alvarez-Chairez, AAS, Business and Supervision; Joshua D. Anthony, CERT-1, Automotive Technology; Soralla Arellano, AA, General Studies; Kaylie E. Blaylock, AAS, Pharmacy Technology; Alyssa N. Campbell, AA, General Studies; Alexis J. Choate, CERT-1, Criminal Justice Core Level 1; Carmeisha A. Davis, AAS, Criminal Justice; Shelby M. Dempsey, AA, Health and Physical Education; Jose A. Diaz, AA, General Studies; Jorge A. Duran, AA, General Studies; Alejandro Enriquez, AA, General Studies; Armani R. Flemons, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Carolina E. Garcia, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing; Julian A. Garcia, CERT-2, EMT-Maintenance Technician Specialty; Ana R. Garrido, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Desirae J. Giles, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Melany M. Gomez, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Millie Guillen, AA, General Studies; Marcus L. Hadnot, AA, General Studies; Seth K. Hamilton, AA, General Studies; Katelyn L. Hudspeth, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; James. S. Johnson, AAS, Criminal Justice, CERT-1 Criminal Justice Core Level 1; Alexander Kuhne, CERT-1, Automotive Technology; Kiersten Landrum, CERT-1, EMT-Maintenance Technician Specialty, CERT-1, EMT-Electrician Specialty; Nathan J. Lawson, CERT-1, Diesel Technology; Eliana E. Lopez, AA, Business Administration and Management; Briana A. Macias, AA, General Studies; Julia L. McCaa, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Jessica J. Mettlen, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-CDA Level 1; Morgan S. L. Mills, AAT, Teaching; Addison M. Mount, AA, General Studies; Alexes M. Ochoa, AA, Business Administration and Management; Anakaren Ovalle, AA, General Studies; Clarissa B. Padilla, CERT-1, Real Estate-Advanced, CERT-1, Real Estate Salesman; Sarah Parrish, AA, General Studies; Ada M. Pierson, AA, Music; Jessica S. Quarles, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Britney E. Ramirez, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Isabel H. Rodriguez, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Cristashoni Rogers, CERT-1, Real Estate Salesman; Kristal C. Rojo, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-CDA Level 1; Yolanda N. Rubio, AA, General Studies; Jerderra Scott, AA, General Studies; Kaylan A. Solis, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-CDA Level 1; Victoria Y. Solis, CERT-1, Child and Family Development-CDA Level 1; Michel K. Thomas, CERT-1, Criminal Justice Core Level 1; Michelle K. Thomas, CERT-1, Criminal Justice Core Level 1; Isaiah Torres, AAS, Criminal Justice; Sabrina Valka, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing; Maria C. Venegas, CERT-2, Business and Supervision; Angelina M. Williams, CERT-1, Real Estate Salesman; Aniya D. Williams, AA, General Studies; Jordan D. Williams, AA, General Studies; Ashley M. Zamora, AA, General Studies; and Michael E. Joseph, CERT-1, Diesel Technology. 

Nacogdoches

Brennan D. Achterhof, CERT-1, Automotive Technology; Jose V. Almendarez, CERT-1, Automotive Technology; Camden J. Barbee, CERT-1, Automotive Technology; Benita C. Barlow, AA, General Studies; Jessica Caporali, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Christian A. Delgado, AA, General Studies; Kristy A. Horn, CERT-1 Child and Family Development-Level 1; Carson L. Kephart, CERT-1 Diesel Technology, CERT-1 Diesel Technology-Basic; Christopher Landeros, CERT-1 Diesel Technology; Terry J. Pierce, AA, General Studies; Rodricus L. Polley, CERT-1, Automotive Technology; Rodney Robison, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing-MEEP; Logan A. Sifuentes, CERT-1, Diesel Technology; Raymond A. Sifuentes, CERT-1, Diesel Technology; Kristen L. Sisson, AA, Business Administration and Management; and Alberta A. Thomas, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing. 

Pollok

Jeremy W. Modisette, AA, General Studies; and Cassandra Sarmiento, CERT-2, Vocational Nursing. 

San Augustine

Joana M. Castro-Gallardo, AA, General Studies. 

Willingboro, NJ

Eddie L. Evans, AA, General Studies. 

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