Home Blog Page 169

Traffic Switch Planned in Polk County

By
Rhonda Oaks
-
0

LUFKIN – Crews will switch traffic on US 190 beginning Monday, March 25, weather permitting, to allow motorists to use the newly constructed bridge sections at Choates Creek and Menard Creek in Polk County.

The bridge sections are part of a $29 million construction project on US 190 that is designed to widen the roadway, and bridges and add safety improvements from the Livingston city limits to 4 miles west of FM 1276. Vulcan Construction, San Antonio TX, is serving as a contractor.

Traffic will remain in this new pattern until the completion of this project when it will be switched to the final configuration, which is expected in the coming months. Motorists are urged to stay alert for the traffic switch, reduce speed through the work zone, and obey all traffic control.

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

Angelina College Men Soccer Program Hosting Spring ID Camp

By
Gary Stallard
-
0

Session Provides Instruction, Recruiting Process Info

The Angelina College men’s soccer program, consistently ranked among the nation’s top junior college programs in the nation the past couple of years, is looking to continue its recent successes on the pitch, and the team is looking for some new Roadrunners to help continue the charge.

The Roadrunners will host an “ID Camp” on Saturday, March 23 at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex on the AC campus. The session, scheduled to run from 9 a.m. until noon, includes a campus tour.

The camp is geared toward providing high school students and college transfers the opportunity to train and experience skills evaluation from college coaches while learning more about the recruiting process.

The cost of the session is $50 for online registration, and $75 for in-person registration on the day of the camp.   

 Attendees are asked to bring their own water bottles, soccer balls, shin guards, and soccer cleats.       

The camps’ schedule, registration, and payment information are available online at https://www.angelinasoccercamps.com/.

For further information, contact AC men’s head soccer coach Martin Melchor at mmelchor@angelina.edu.

The email address for AC’s Sports Information Director is gstallard@angelina.edu.

Love Beyond Late Bills

By
Diana De Leon Bon
-
0

The Salvation Army Loves and Serves Those in Need – All Year Long

Lufkin, Texas (March 14, 2024) – Millions of Americans face daily financial struggles and uphill battles to escape poverty. The Salvation Army in Lufkin works all year round to remove the constant burden of worry and stress to provide hope and a way forward for those in need. 

One surprise expense, like an unexpected car repair or medical bill, can be the difference between affording rent, buying groceries or paying monthly bills. “We have people coming through our doors every day seeking basic financial assistance and asking if we are able to help them pay their overdue bills,” said Captain Jenifer Philips, with The Salvation Army of Lufkin. “Many are coming to us for the first time having never been in such dire financial need before. The last few years have been particularly difficult as layoffs and salary cuts have taken their toll, along with the increase in living expenses all impacting family budgets.”

The bills were piling up for Adrian, a working single parent of three boys, and she didn’t know how she would make it. “My hours had been cut at work and there were days where I’d only work half a shift, meaning that my money was less. But the bills just kept coming,” said Adrian. “With nowhere else to go, I turned to The Salvation Army. They had several programs that could help me pay my bills, stay in my home and not out on the street. They’ve really helped me a lot.”

When funds are available, The Salvation Army helps pay overdue bills, preventing homelessness and stabilizing housing for individuals and families who have fallen behind on their expenses and are at risk of losing their homes. “It’s much more than just paying the bills at The Salvation Army. They really cared about me and my boys beyond just my immediate financial needs,” said Adrian. “Working with my case manager, I took a finance class and that helped me realize what was most important: the things I did need and some things I could maybe do without. They didn’t just stop after helping pay the bills, they were there, and I know they’re still there if I need anything.”

Ongoing case management is an integral component of The Salvation Army’s work with individuals and families in need. Clients work one-on-one with case managers, often connecting with local community partners, to resolve complex issues and plan their way forward. “Our work really does stretch well beyond the moment of crisis,” said Captain Philips. “Yes, we’re there in the moment of crisis and greatest need, but we are also committed to Love Beyond the utility bills, rent or whatever a family is facing, to get them on a pathway to success and self-sufficiency.”

The Salvation Army is issuing a rallying cry for Americans to “Love Beyond.” The organization’s message is simply that when we Love Beyond late bills, Love Beyond shelter and Love Beyond disasters, we can provide hope and help for millions who need it. Love Beyond is also a symbol of the resources and programs that so many people rely on year-round when they turn to The Salvation Army for assistance. 

The best way to ensure services continue for those in need is to visit https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/lufkin/ (or call 1-800-SAl-ARMY) where you can make a donation or sign up for a sustaining gift of $25 per month, which could help a family overcome the risks of poverty and eviction. 

Learn more about Love Beyond by visiting The Salvation Army’s website at www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/video-hub/. For more information about how you can help, please contact Captain Jenifer Phillips at 936-223-6624.

Color Me Drug-Free: An Obstacle Challenge Course

By
Diana De Leon Bon
-
0

On Saturday, April 6th, from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, the Angelina County Drug-Free All Stars and
the Drug-Free Council of Pineywoods Community Academy will host Color Me Drug-Free: An
Obstacle Challenge Course, to celebrate and encourage students to live a healthy and
substance-free life. Participants will make their way through an obstacle course filled with fun
challenges but watch out! Color will be flying so that students are marked drug-free!

All participants will receive a FREE t-shirt (white) that can be worn during the event, and free
swag will be awarded, while supplies last! Join us at the Boys & Girls Club of Lufkin field on
Saturday, April 6.

Since 1988, The Coalition has focused on eliminating the use of harmful substances by affecting
public policy, laws, attitudes and behaviors, all in an effort to foster healthy life-long choices for
the local community. For more information about this free event or how to register, contact
The Coalition at 936-634-9308 or visit @TheCoalition936 on social media.

Pain of Loss Highlights Rising Trend of Bicycle and Pedestrian Crashes

By
Rhonda Oaks
-
0

TxDOT urges drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to follow state laws and save lives

AUSTIN – Katie Parker still gets nervous just crossing the street. Eight years ago, a careless driver plowed into her and her dog, Riley, while they were out for a jog. Parker was hit with such force that she was thrown more than 60 feet. Riley, a Great Dane, was killed on what was supposed to be a pleasant morning jog.

The mental and physical toll from the 2016 crash continues for Parker. The physical scars have mostly healed, but she doesn’t feel safe while walking or driving. Her story is an example of the impact crashes can have on survivors.

“The crash changed my life,” Parker said. “I lost my dog, and my sense of safety when crossing the street.”

Parker is joining TxDOT this spring during its “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign to remind Texans why it’s important to follow traffic laws to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe.

“Too many people are killed or seriously injured every year in Texas walking, jogging or biking in their communities,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “We want all Texans—whether you’re behind the wheel, on foot or on a bike—to watch out for each other and follow the rules of the road so everyone gets where they’re going safely.”

In 2022, 922 people died in traffic crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists in Texas, accounting for one out of every five fatalities on the state’s roadways. It’s a part of a rising trend in recent years as pedestrian fatalities increased 30% and bicyclist fatalities increased 28% in the five years from 2018 to 2022.

“Be Safe. Drive Smart” urges all Texans to learn and follow the laws for safe driving, walking and biking. As part of this effort, TxDOT is sending teams of walking billboards to cities around the state to put key safety reminders in front of drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists in crash-prone areas.

If you’re driving in Texas, state law requires you to:

  • Stop and yield for pedestrians, bicyclists and other vulnerable road users in crosswalks.
  • When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians and bicyclists.
  • Pass bikes at a safe distance and give bicyclists room to ride.
  • Always follow the speed limit and drive at a safe speed.

If you’re walking:

  • Cross the street only at intersections and crosswalks.
  • Obey all traffic signs and signals, including at crosswalks.
  • Use sidewalks. If there’s no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, unless the left side is obstructed or unsafe.

If you’re riding a bike:

  • Always stop at red lights and stop signs.
  • Ride in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes or ride as near as possible to the right-hand curb.
  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
  • At night, ensure your bike has a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back.

TxDOT’s Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign and pedestrian and bicyclist safety initiative are key components of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel to help end the streak of daily deaths. Nov. 7, 2000, was the last deathless day on Texas roadways. 

Logan Pillows to Participate in “Reach for the Stars” Show at County Fair

By
Cary Sims
-
0

Logan Pillows, a 4th grader at Hudson’s Bonner Elementary, is seated with his seeing-eye dog/ pet dog name Mia. Logan is one of the students participating in the Reach for the Stars show at the Angelina County Youth Fair at the Angelina County Fair

One of the best events you’ll see at the Angelina County Fair is called Reach for the Stars “Celebrating the Possibilities”. It will be a livestock show on Thursday, March 21 at 5 pm that will showcase the talents of special needs youth from across our county. Participants will be paired up with a 4-H or FFA member to exhibit livestock and learn that they can succeed in the show arena as well.

Logan is the 10-year-old son of James Hall and Stacy Pillows. He is legally blind and has been since birth. Logan has 4 inches of peripheral vision and can only see shapes and primary colors.

But don’t let that fool you, he is extremely smart and is in the gifted and talented program in 4th grade at Bonner Elementary in Hudson. He reads braille and loves gardening. At home Logan loves to garden, especially planting flowers and rose bushes. 

When asked what led them to participate in the show, Stacy said “Logan has never participated in Reach for the Stars program. He is super excited to meet the student that has volunteered their time and animal to share with him, and the wisdom and joy that comes from raising an animal.”

Karen Stafford is one of the volunteers leading this show. Stafford says, “I had started seeing this type of show in other counties around Texas, and I’ve seen some special needs kids showing at the major stock shows, and I just felt like it was time for us to offer something like this in our county and our community.”

“The support and enthusiasm have been overwhelmingly positive,” Stafford continues, “The response from the 4-H and FFA kids willing to donate their animals and be show buddies for the exhibitors is very heartwarming.  This year, in less than 24 hours, we had 37-40 youth fair exhibitors sign up to volunteer.  Our Angelina County kids want to help in a big way.”

Looking ahead, she states, “I hope these exhibitors will see that livestock showing really is achievable for them and maybe they will consider joining a 4-H or FFA group and becoming a part of the Angelina County Fair in the future.  Also, animals have calming and therapeutic effects, and I’ve seen what it can do for kids with different ranges of disabilities.  These livestock animals might be what a kid needs, but they just might not know it yet.”

Logan’s mom, Stacy stated, “Logan constantly wants to try new things. He does not let his disability hold him back, a true daredevil and has no fear and loves animals.”

Registration for the Reach for the Stars show is available online at AngelinaCountyFair.com. This is an opportunity for special needs children in grades 3 – 12. The event is free, but you must pre-register by March 15th at the website. Click on Exhibitors, then “Contest” and follow the link to the Special Needs Livestock Show.  

The public is invited to see the Reach for the Stars show at 5 pm on Thursday, March 21 in the main arena of the EXPO in Lufkin.

Drug-Free All Stars Complete Project Sticker Shock

By
Diana De Leon Bon
-
0
Pictured are attendees at the Project Sticker Shock press conference On March 8. First row, from left to right are April Soderquist, Coalition board member; Suzy Childers, Coalition board member; Kim Garcia, Coalition board member; Melissa McKnight, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT); Jessica Jones, TxDOT; Jacee Berry, TxDOT; Seth Franks, TxDOT; and Don Maddox, TxDOT. Second row, from left to right are Captain Alton Lenderman, Angelina County Sheriff Office; Bambi Shofner, St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School; Natalie Courtney, Lufkin HS All Star; Alayna Durham, Huntington HS All Star; Zahra Martinez, Lufkin HS All Star; Jennifer Payne, Angelina County Sheriff Office; Giselle Jaime, Central HS All Star; Elizabeth Jacobo, Central HS All Star; Jolie Garcia, Central HS All Star; Ava Alaniz-Guerrero, PCA All Star; and Melissa Crager, Brookshire Brothers. Back row from left to right are Kendyl Metcalf, Huntington HS All Star; Chloe Napier, Huntington HS All Star; Alexander Tiu, St. Cyprian’s All Star; Cara Phillips, St. Cyprian’s All Star; De’Andrew Dodd, PCA All Star; Brylee Barbee, PCA All Star; Annabelle Liddle, Central HS All Star; Kiara Rodgers, PCA All Star; Cece Rodgers, PCA All Star; and Kaylie Blaylock, PCA All Star.

The Drug-Free All Stars of Angelina County, funded by a grant from TxDOT, recently completed their annual event, Project Sticker Shock. The Project Sticker Shock campaign is aimed at preventing underage drinking by reminding adults not to provide alcohol for minors. The 59 Drug-Free All Stars stickered 28 grocery and convenience stores throughout Angelina County to help prevent underage alcohol use. The Coalition, Inc. and the Drug-Free All Stars would like to thank Brookshire Brothers, La Michoacana Meat Market, Hernandez Grocery, Big’s convenience stores, Walgreens on Frank Ave., and Coleman’s convenience store for participating in this year’s Project Sticker Shock.

For the first time, student members of Polk and Cherokee county Drug-Free Council groups also participated in Project Sticker Shock in their respective counties to continue raising awareness throughout Deep East Texas. The Coalition hopes Project Sticker Shock makes the community aware of the dangers of providing alcohol to minors; not only is it against the law, but it can have deadly consequences.  St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School Drug-Free All Star, Alexander Tiu, commented, “We are promoting a legacy of responsibility in youth. This will last a lifetime, create successful community members, and promote living a full and happy life.” Research shows that teens who start drinking before age 15 are four times more likely to develop substance dependence later in life than those who wait to drink until age 21 or older.  

Since 1988, The Coalition has focused on eliminating the use of harmful substances by affecting public policy, laws, attitudes and behaviors, all in an effort to foster healthy life-long choices for the local community. The Drug-Free All Stars are a group of high school seniors that serve as role models for the community by living an alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free life. For more information about the Drug-Free All Star program, contact Abby Baker at The Coalition at 936-634-9308.

Huntington Drug-Free All Star Avery Williams places a sticker on a package at the Zavalla Brookshire Brothers.
Natalie Courtney, Lufkin HS Drug-Free All Star, and Kendyl Metcalf, Huntington HS Drug-Free All Star, stickering package of alcohol at the new Huntington Brookshire Brothers location.  
Natalie Courtney, Lufkin HS Drug-Free All Star, and Kendyl Metcalf, Huntington HS Drug-Free All Star, stickering package of alcohol at the new Huntington Brookshire Brothers location.  
Jacob Jenning and Kristina Guardado, Central HS Drug-Free All Stars, stickering at a local Big’s location.

Spring Storm Preparedness in Texas Forest Country

By
Lee Allen Miller
-
0

As spring unfolds across the Texas Forest Country, residents look forward to warmer temperatures and blooming landscapes. However, this season also brings an increased risk of severe weather, including tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and heavy rains. Preparing for these potential threats is crucial for safety and resilience. Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared.

Understanding the Risks

Spring storms in Texas Forest Country can manifest as powerful thunderstorms, capable of producing damaging winds, large hail, and even tornadoes. Heavy rains can lead to flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas. The unpredictability and sudden onset of these storms necessitate advanced preparation.

Preparation Tips

  1. Stay Informed: Use a NOAA Weather Radio and download a reliable weather app on your smartphone for alerts. Staying ahead of the weather can give you valuable time to seek shelter or take other necessary actions.
  2. Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and other essentials. Don’t forget to include supplies for pets.
  3. Create a Plan: Have a family emergency plan that includes where to go and what to do during severe weather. Ensure everyone knows the safest location in your home, which is typically a basement or an interior room away from windows.
  4. Secure Outdoor Objects: High winds can turn patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items into projectiles. Secure or bring these items indoors when severe weather is forecasted.
  5. Protect Important Documents: Place important documents in a waterproof container and consider backing them up digitally in a secure location.
  6. Inspect Your Home: Check your home for potential hazards that could be exacerbated by severe weather. This includes loose shingles, weak branches near your home, and clogged drainage systems.
  7. Know Your Insurance Coverage: Understand your homeowner’s insurance policy, especially regarding coverage for storm damage and flooding. Consider flood insurance if you’re in a high-risk area.

Community Resources

Local emergency management offices and community organizations often provide resources and information to help residents prepare for and recover from severe weather. Participation in community preparedness programs can also offer additional support and resources.

Preparation can significantly mitigate the risks associated with severe spring storms. By staying informed, making a plan, and taking proactive steps, residents of Texas Forest Country can ensure their safety and the safety of their loved ones during the unpredictable spring weather season. Remember, the time to prepare is now, before severe weather strikes.

U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions is coming to Lufkin!

By
Diana De Leon Bon
-
0

U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions will be the keynote speaker at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin, Texas. Lunch provided.

 This is a FREE event, but SPACE IS LIMITED so register early.

Date/Time Information:
April 4th – 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

https://www.facebook.com/ADACDET  

Click HERE to register!

Impact Conference Vaping & Marijuana

Pete Sessions is the U.S. Congressman for the 17th District of Texas. Born and raised in Waco, Texas, Congressman Sessions has served for 24 years in the U.S. Congress. He is passionate about the welfare of Texans, especially about the influx and impact of marijuana in the United States.

Kim Bartel has served as the Data Coordinator for the Region 5 Prevention Resource Center of the Alcohol & Drug Awareness Council over the past nine years. The focus of the data collected and reported is on the mental health and substance use behaviors within Deep and Southeast Texas.

For more information you can contact Kim Bartel at (936) 631-8785 or kbartel@adacdet.org.


The Origins of St. Patrick’s Day and the Tradition of Wearing Green

By
Lee Allen Miller
-
0

As Sunday approaches, many in Texas Forest Country and around the globe prepare to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, a cultural and religious festival held annually on March 17th. But beyond the sea of green attire and decorations, few know the rich history and origins of this day. Let’s delve into why St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated and the reason behind the tradition of wearing green.

The Man Behind the Holiday

St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was not Irish by birth. Born in Britain in the late 4th century, he was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped but returned around 432 to convert the Irish to Christianity. By the time of his death on March 17, 461, he had established monasteries, churches, and schools. Many legends grew up around him — for instance, that he drove the snakes out of Ireland and used the shamrock to explain the Trinity.

From Religious Observance to Global Celebration

Originally, St. Patrick’s Day was a religious feast observed in Ireland with great reverence. As Irish immigrants spread across the world, they carried with them their traditions and customs, transforming St. Patrick’s Day into a global phenomenon that celebrates Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, and a whole lot of green.

Why We Wear Green

The tradition of wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day dates back to the 17th century. Green is one of the colors in Ireland’s tri-color flag and is associated with the green hills and landscapes of the country, often referred to as the “Emerald Isle.” The shamrock, which St. Patrick used as a metaphor for the Christian Holy Trinity, is also green. Initially, blue was associated with St. Patrick. However, the color green became linked to the holiday after the Irish Rebellion of 1798, when the clover and green uniforms became symbols of nationalism and rebellion against the British.

Another reason for wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day is tied to Irish folklore. It is said that wearing green makes one invisible to leprechauns, the mischievous fairy creatures of Irish mythology. Leprechauns are known for pinching anyone they can see, so wearing green is thought to protect against their playful pinches.

Modern Celebrations in Texas Forest Country

In the Texas Forest Country, St. Patrick’s Day might not involve chasing snakes away, but it’s a time for community, joy, and perhaps a touch of the Irish spirit. Residents often celebrate with themed events, wear green attire, and enjoy traditional Irish food and drinks. It’s a day for everyone, regardless of heritage, to celebrate the culture and contributions of the Irish.

So, this Sunday, March 17th, as you don your green attire, spare a thought for St. Patrick and the origins of these traditions. St. Patrick’s Day is more than just parades and green beer; it’s a day rooted in history, celebrating the spirit of Ireland and the legacy of one of its most beloved saints. Whether you’re attending a parade, enjoying a slice of soda bread, or simply wearing a splash of green, you’re part of a tradition that spans centuries and continents.

For more cultural insights and local events celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, check our events link at Texas Forest Country Living.

1...168169170...760Page 169 of 760