From left to right are Levi, Alaura, and Samuel Forrest. These youth are raising broilers to show at the Angelina County Fair on Tuesday March 19 at 6pm in the George H. Henderson Expo in Lufkin.
Forrest family raising broilers and competing at the Angelina County Fair
9-year-old Alaura Forrest is being helped by her dad, Darel Forrest, as they place new chicks in the pen in which they will be raising them.
There are three County Fair exhibitors in the Forrest family. The youngest two will be showing a pen of broilers in just a few weeks while the oldest will serve in volunteer youth leader role. Alaura, Levi, and Samuel are the kids of Darrel and Crystal Forrest and members of the Blue Ribbon 4-H club in Angelina County.
The youngest exhibitor in the family is Alaura who is nine years old and in third grade. Just old enough to compete in the 4-H program, she has been active in the Pee Wee show since she was three. For quite a while Alaura has been watching her two older brothers participate and has been anxiously waiting until she could also be a participate in the show. Not only will she be showing broilers but will also compete in the arts and crafts division.
Levi is 14 and in the eighth grade. Levi loves music and he and his older brother both serve on the youth worship team at church. This is his third year with broilers and he as has also entered the arts and crafts show.
The oldest is Samuel. He is 17, in 11th grade. He loves playing guitar and piano. He serves on the Sunday worship team and leads the youth worship team band. Samuel is serving his second year as a Youth Volunteer Poultry Ambassador. The Angelina County Fair Ambassador program provides high school aged fair participants the opportunity to develop and practice advanced leadership skills as well as become an advocate for the fair and agriculture as a whole.
A “broiler” is a chicken bred specifically to grow muscle efficiently and to be eaten. Their genetics are very different from the egg producing breeds we have in the back-yard egg-laying flock. Raising broiler chickens is an excellent youth project for beginners to livestock exhibiting. Chickens are considerably easier to handle, require less space, and are less expensive than other species.
To be competitive, exhibitors do have a good bit of work to keep the water fresh, the feed filled up and the temperatures correct. Levi says, “The hardest part about being in the Fair is losing sleep to check on the bird’s feed and water.” Additionally, the kids have to keep up with their other responsibilities while raising them. Their father, Darell said, “”Keeping the kids and myself out of the barn might be the hardest part! We all love it!”
Chickens can be raised in a backyard shed or a garage; they do not need a large amount of land. And broilers can often be raised in urban areas where larger animals would be impractical. In fact, it is recommended that broilers be raised in a good shelter to maximize growth and prevent attack by predators.
This is a short-term livestock project lasting only six weeks. The quick time frame of only 6 weeks is very typical of market conditions. On a commercial scale, it typically takes only 6-7 weeks to raise a broiler to market weight.
A broiler chicken eats less than two pounds of feed for every pound of body weight gained. Therefore, a six-pound broiler requires only 12 pounds of feed to complete its 6 week grow-out cycle.
At the county fair, only the best 3 broilers from the original pen are shown in competition by a student. The remainder of the birds never make it to the showgrounds.
“Being with our family as well as other families and supporting the kids that are involved is probably the best part of being in the County Fair”, says Crystal. She continues, “I hope they learn what a vital role farmers and agriculture play in our daily lives. It’s more than a competition. We have a wonderful community that comes together and supports our youth”.
This year’s broiler show at the Angelina County Fair is sponsored by Pilgrim’s Pride and will be held on Tuesday, March 19 starting at 6 pm in the main arena at the George H. Henderson Expo. The entire County Fair is from Monday, March 18 thru Saturday, March 23 concluding with the sale on Saturday afternoon. The auction will be Saturday evening in the main arena starting at 4 pm. For more information about the Angelina County Fair, go to angelinacountyfair.com.
Nestled in the heart of San Augustine, Texas, San Augustine Drug has been a cornerstone of the community since its establishment in 1904. Owned by Mike and Debbie Jackson, this pharmacy and boutique has woven itself into the fabric of the town over its remarkable 120-year history.
A Legacy of Healing and Happiness
Founded by Pharmacist Alonzo Rushing and his brother Ace, San Augustine Drug embarked on its journey to provide essential pharmacy services and a touch of joy to everyone who walked through its doors.
Debbie Jackson, reflecting on the store’s origins, shares in a recent TV interview, “We do have prescriptions prior to 1904 that we have on file, but it was actually founded in 1904, and it’s been in continuous operation ever since.”
The Jacksons took over the reins in 1990 from Debbie’s father, Therman Bridges, continuing a legacy that nearly came to an abrupt end with a fire in 1988. However, the resilience of the community and the dedication of the Jacksons kept the pharmacy’s heart beating, quickly resuming operations down the street while the original site was rebuilt.
More Than Just a Pharmacy
Today, San Augustine Drug stands as a unique blend of a traditional pharmacy and a boutique, offering an array of products and services from essential medical prescriptions to gifts, clothing, and kids’ toys. But perhaps its most famous offering is the Grapefruit Highball, a soda fountain classic that has outlived generations. Invented in 1928 by Casey Jones, a soda jerk turned pharmacist, the drink remains a testament to the store’s rich history and innovation.
A Pillar of Personal Care
The Jacksons have fostered a friendly family atmosphere where every customer is treated with warmth and personal attention.
“Personal interaction is enjoyable,” Mike Jackson says, summarizing the essence of their business philosophy. San Augustine Drug is a place where the hustle of modern life slows down, allowing for genuine face-to-face connections.
Engagement and Evolution
Deeply embedded in the community, San Augustine Drug supports local schools and events, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the town’s well-being. Looking ahead, the Jacksons are excited about celebrating the pharmacy’s 120th anniversary on April 13, 2024. This milestone is not just a celebration of longevity but also a tribute to continuous personal service and the evolution of a business that has grown alongside its community.
A Testament to Time
San Augustine Drug’s journey is a vivid narrative of resilience, care, and community engagement. As the world changes, the Jacksons plan to meet future challenges by staying true to the principles of personal interaction and community support that have defined their business for over a century.
For those looking to embark on their own entrepreneurial journey in the area, Mike Jackson advises, “Find a passion for something you love to do, and a need that’s not being addressed. And follow the rule of life… ‘if you are not growing, you are dying’.”
As San Augustine Drug prepares for its 120th anniversary, it stands as a beacon of history, healthcare, and heartfelt service in East Texas. It’s a story of a business that is more than just a pharmacy; it’s a cherished community member that continues to enrich the lives of those it serves.
Join the celebration of history, healthcare, and heart at San Augustine Drug. Follow their journey and connect with them on Facebook to discover more about this iconic Texas institution.
After a long and welcomed reprieve from Austin, I recently made a trip back to welcome a sizeable delegation of folks from the Lufkin area who were in town for their annual Lufkin/Angelina County Day at the Texas Capitol. While I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being back home and spending time traveling the district, the trip to Austin is sure easier when you’re accompanied by a group of great folks from back home.
That said, I want to remind everyone that our office is always ready and willing to welcome you or your family to our State Capitol. With spring break just around the corner and summer right behind it, I want to encourage you to consider making a trip down to Austin for your next family outing. My staff can help coordinate a tour of the Capitol complex, the Texas State Cemetery, and help make arrangements for you to visit other attractions like the Bob Bullock State History Museum or the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library. While you’re here, be sure to drop by the office to say hello – our door is always open!
With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol…
Capitol Update
Earlier this month, the General Land Office (GLO) announced that more than $122 million in regional mitigation funds were awarded to several Texas counties to improve streets, drainage, and sewer systems. Among the counties being awarded these funds is San Augustine County, which received funding to repair local street and drainage infrastructure. After the recent flooding in our area, I know these funds will be put to good use. I appreciate the GLO for recognizing the critical needs we have in the Deep East Texas region.
Additionally, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced last week that his office received hundreds of applications for financial assistance from rural law enforcement offices requesting nearly $125 million for salary assistance using funds made available through the enactment of Senate Bill 22 during the 88th Legislative Session.
I am immensely pleased to report that every county in House District 9 will receive funding from this new rural law enforcement fund. In total, $3.7 million will be distributed amongst our six-county Sheriff offices, as well as some County and District Attorney offices. As I traveled across the district and met with county officials before this past session, it was made abundantly clear to me that more needed to be done to help our rural law enforcement offices recruit and retain qualified officers and purchase much-needed equipment. As a co-author of Senate Bill 22, which established this funding, I am excited to see this announcement of financial support for our local law enforcement agencies. Our public safety officials are vital to protecting our citizens, and I’m proud to see funding being provided to ensure rural counties have the law enforcement funds necessary to recruit and retain those who help keep our communities safe.
The mobile office is still on the road this month, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on February 21 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9-11 a.m. and at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30 p.m.
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/.
Join us for the 3rd Day Party with the Houston County Cossacks! All are invited to our Clubhouse for a day of brotherhood and fun. Bring your family, friends, and children – we’ve got a bounce house for the kids, exciting motorcycle games, and even a best-looking motorcycle contest with trophies up for grabs! Public participation in the games is encouraged, so bring your bikes and let’s make it a memorable day. If you’re entering the contest, there’s a $20 entry fee. Check out the details on our flyer, and feel free to call us if you have any questions. Looking forward to seeing you there! SYLC ???
LUFKIN – A reduction in the speed limit was recently approved by Lufkin City Council for a busy Lufkin street with signs scheduled to be set in the coming days.
The speed limit on FM 324/Southwood Drive in Lufkin will be lowered from 55 miles per hour to 45 miles per hour from SL 287 (outside the loop) to approximately 0.8 miles south of SL 287.
The Lufkin City Council voted to lower the speed limit based on a recent speed study conducted by the TxDOT Lufkin District. In accordance with the Texas Administrative Code, Title 43, Part 1, Chapter 25, Subchapter B, the City is responsible for preparing and passing a city ordinance or resolution establishing the lower speed limit based on the speed study conducted by TxDOT.
Motorists are urged to stay alert and obey the new lower speed limit. Once signs are set, the new speed limit will be enforceable.
Another full week of Angelina College Athletics action (we sure stay busy around here) including a new coaching hire, some recognition for some deserving student-athletes, and – of course – plenty of game action.
Here’s a recap of the week, along with a list of upcoming events:
Lady Roadrunner Basketball Remains Atop Standings
The Lady Roadrunners have remained perched atop the Region XIV basketball standings for most of the season. On Saturday, they stayed there – by a mere two points.
AC’s ladies traveled to Kilgore to battle the second-place Lady Rangers and escaped with a thrilling 83-81 win. The result kept the Lady Roadrunners (16-8, 8-1) with just one loss in conference play while Kilgore dropped to 14-9, 7-2.
In Saturday’s win, Maria Kenembeni wrecked the Rangers with a 25-point, 13-rebound effort. Amyria Walker added 23 points and Janay Quinn another 10 for AC. Collectively, the Lady Roadrunner defense forced 17 Kilgore turnovers, converting most of those to transition scores on the AC end.
The Lady ‘Runners host Jacksonville College Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. before traveling to Athens on Saturday to take on No. 13 Trinity Valley Community College at 2 p.m.
Roadrunner Basketball Splits Road/Home Games this Week
AC’s guys rebounded from Wednesday’s road slip (an 81-68 to Coastal Bend Community College in Beeville) with a solid performance at home on Saturday. The Roadrunners topped Victoria College in a 76-63 win at Shands Gymnasium.
Xavier Owens led the team with 16 points, while Keddric Mays added 14 points in the win.
The ‘Runners (16-8, 7-6) still hold the third-place spot in Region XIV’s South Zone, two games back of second-place Blinn College and two games ahead of fourth-place Coastal Bend.
AC gets the night off on Wednesday before hosting No. 12 Lee College on Saturday at 4 p.m.
Lady Roadrunner Softball with High-Speed Week
No team was busier this week than the Lady Roadrunner softball team, which played a total of eight games in six days – capping the week Sunday in Waco.
The Lady ‘Runners began the week with their home opener on Monday, sweeping Kilgore College 15-7, 7-1 at Lady Roadrunner Field. In the opening game, AC’s Skyler Martin drove in eight runs, including a grand slam. Riley Davila drove in another four runs, and Kaetlyn Dunbar doubled twice in the win.
In the late game, it was Dunbar’s turn to trot the bases, with the sophomore rocking a three-run homer and finishing the game with three RBI. Davila drove in two more to help AC cap the sweep of the Lady Rangers.
AC dropped both games of a doubleheader Wednesday at No. 18 Bossier Parish CC (losing 11-0, 8-0) before hitting Waco for the rain-soaked McLennan Tournament. The Lady ‘Runners actually led Crowder College 2-0 on Saturday before rains washed out the game and left it declared a “no contest.” AC then battled No. 6 McLennan before falling 4-1.
The Lady ‘Runners are scheduled to play at Kilgore College on Wednesday in a doubleheader starting at 1 p.m.
AC then will play four straight games at home beginning on Friday: The Lady Roadrunners play Monroe College and Butler College starting at noon on Friday, then play Butler twice on Saturday starting at 2 p.m.
Roadrunner Baseball Falls at Temple College
AC Baseball’s only two games of the week were on the road against a strong Temple College team, with the ‘Runners coming out on the short end of 9-6, 10-3 finals.
Taz Pate homered and drove in three runs in the opener, then added a solo shot for another RBI in the nightcap.
The Roadrunners (2-6) on Wednesday will travel to Alvin College for a pair of seven-inning games starting at noon. AC returns home on Saturday for a twin bill against Temple College starting at 1 p.m. at Poland Field on the AC campus.
Gardea Named Head Women’s Soccer Coach
Sergio Gardea, who has spent the past few years helping build Jacksonville College programs, recently was named the head coach of the Lady Roadrunners. Not only does Gardea bring familiarity with a tough Region XIV conference, he also brings a resume filled with success as both a player and a coach.
Gardea also worked at Jacksonville with current AC men’s head coach Martin Melchor and was instrumental in lifting the Lady Jaguar program to new heights.
For his full story and bio, visit the Angelina College Athletics website at www.angelinaathletics.com
Nice Ring to It: Roadrunner Men’s Soccer Receives Conference Championship Rings
In 2023, the Angelina College men’s soccer team accomplished a program first – and it wasn’t even their trip the NJCAA Division I National Tournament in Wichita, Kansas.
No, the team already had been there, done that when it came to qualifying for a national tournament. After all, the program’s first appearance at nationals had occurred the year before.
What the program had never done was win a Region XIV conference championship. Despite knocking on the door for several years, not until 2023 did the Roadrunners finally kick down the door with emphasis.
The ‘Runners didn’t lose a regular-season match in 2023, finishing the year 13-2-2, with the only losses occurring in the national tournament. One of those losses came to the eventual national champion.
And for the first time, the Roadrunners captured the Region XIV conference title, beating Northeast Texas Community College in the quarterfinals, Blinn College in the semifinals and Tyler Junior College in the finals.
On Friday, Angelina College staff presented the team and coaches with rings commemorating the big milestone.
TINY DANCERS
Allison Wethington, 8 (wearing pink) and Ava Nash, 12 (wearing maroon) performed at half time of Saturday’s Roadrunners vs. Victoria College basketball game. The two tiny dancers are part of the Academy of Gymnastics and Dance in Lufkin, and they did a beautiful job entertaining the crowd.
UPCOMING EVENTS OF NOTE:
Women’s/Men’s Basketball Sophomore Day: Saturday, March 2. AC teams hosting Coastal Bend CC in a doubleheader starting at 2 p.m. Sophomore Day festivities will take place before each game.
Tyler Rayburn Baseball Tribute: Tyler Rayburn was a key (and very popular) part of the Angelina College baseball team for a couple of years. Sadly, we lost Tyler when he passed away in 2023, but the Roadrunner baseball program plans to honor his memory with a tribute tentatively scheduled for Saturday, March 23 at Poland Field. The Roadrunners host TCS Post Grad in a doubleheader that day, so the ceremony (including a ceremonial first pitch) will take place before the first game, currently scheduled for a 1 p.m. start.
Softball National Champions 10-Year Reunion: Yes, 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of Angelina College’s only national title: The Lady Roadrunner Softball team’s 2014 national championship. Current plans include hosting a reunion ceremony tentatively scheduled for Saturday, April 20, when the Lady Roadrunner softball team will host Blinn College in a doubleheader starting at 1 p.m. We’ll issue more information once we’ve solidified all the plans.
This Week’s Schedule (NOTE: Baseball and softball subject to change with pending inclement weather):
Roadrunner Baseball:
Wednesday, Feb. 14: AC at Alvin College, DH starting at 12 p.m. in Alvin.
Saturday, Feb. 17: AC vs. Temple College, DH starting at 1 p.m., Poland Field on the AC campus.
Lady Roadrunner Basketball:
Wed., Feb. 14: AC vs. Jacksonville College, 6:30 p.m. at Shands Gymnasium.
Sat., Feb. 17: AC at Trinity Valley CC, 2 p.m. in Athens.
Roadrunner Basketball:
Saturday, Feb. 17: AC vs. Lee College, 4 p.m. at Shands Gymnasium
Lady Roadrunner Softball:
Wednesday, Feb. 14: AC at Kilgore, DH (doubleheader) starting at 1 p.m. in Kilgore (could possibly be moved to AC)
Friday, Feb. 16: AC vs. Monroe College (12 p.m.); AC vs. Butler CC, 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 17: AC vs. Butler CC, DH starting at 2 p.m.
For up-to-date information on any potential schedule changes, AC fans can visit the Angelina College Athletics website (www.angelinaathletics.com) or follow on social media (@ACAthletics on X/Twitter, or Angelina College Athletics Facebook page.)
For the past few years, the Angelina College Lady Roadrunner soccer team has been on the cusp of achieving a berth in the NCJAA Division I National Tournament.
With hiring of its new head coach, the program is hoping to take those next big steps very soon.
Sergio Gardea, who has spent the past few years helping build Jacksonville College programs, recently was named the head coach of the Lady Roadrunners. Not only does Gardea bring familiarity with a tough Region XIV conference, he also brings a resume filled with success as both a player and a coach.
Gardea also worked at Jacksonville with current AC men’s head coach Martin Melchor, and Gardea said the Lufkin area’s reputation was a big reason he chose to take on this role.
“Even though I’m not from the East Texas area, I’ve been living here for the past 10-12 years, so I’m very familiar with this area,” Gardea said. “I’m familiar with how the Lufkin community is when it comes to supporting our students striving to graduate, and I’m familiar with how important soccer is in this area.
“Also, I’ve already been coaching, so I know a lot of teams in this area. I know the level of competition, and I know what it takes to win. That’s the main thing: To have a successful program in this region, and to have a nationally ranked team.”
A native of El Paso, Gardea graduated from Americas High School, serving as the boys soccer team’s goalkeeper, where he earned All-City Goalkeeper honors following his senior year. His skills landed him a spot at Cisco College, helping the team to its first national ranking in the history of the program.
Later, Gardea transferred to UT-Tyler, and in 2011 helped the team to the American Southwest Conference and ASC Tournament championships. That same season, UT-Tyler advanced to the final eight in the NCAA Division III national tournament – the farthest any Patriot men’s soccer team had ever advanced in a national tournament.
In addition, Gardea holds the Patriot program record for most shutouts by a goalkeeper.
He feels his experiences at the junior college level will provide a big benefit to his players.
“I understand the whole process of being a JUCO player and having that dream of going to a four-year school,” Gardea said. “I’m also aware that at a junior college, a lot of these kids are going to be first-generation college students, and for some, it will be their first time coming to the United States.
“That’s something with which I’m completely familiar,” Gardea added. “I was a first-generation college student. I was the first person in my family to attend college, and I also came here from Mexico, so I can understand those feelings. It’s a hard transition coming from one country to another, and I understand those challenges completely.”
Asked to describe his approach to coaching, Gardea specified the importance of a mental approach for every player.
“I would say decision-making is the most important thing I coach,” Gardea said. “I give them some guidance, but I also want to make sure they’re making the right decisions all the time. Soccer is not a sport where you can just call a timeout and reset everything. I have to make sure the girls know the plan, that they can make decisions and that they can see the game.
“A lot of my soccer philosophy relies on decision-making and practice. That’s not just for soccer, but also for life, because those players are going to have to make decisions all their lives.”
Gardea will have several key players returning from the 2023 season, and he said those women, along with a strong class if incoming freshmen, means the program won’t endure any “rebuilding stage.” In fact, Gardea said he’s already got the program’s goals in place.
“We want to continue what the Angelina College women’s program has done for the past three years, which means achieving national rankings,” Gardea said. “We hope to be the first AC soccer women’s team to qualify for the national tournament.”
Gardea is the son of Sara Santiesteban and Sergio Gardea, Sr., and the brother of Liz Hernandez.
Mark your calendars! The first Candidate Forum of 2024 will be held on February 29, 2024 at The Pines Theater. This is YOUR opportunity to hear from local candidates! Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, GLS, for their support of the Candidate Forum.
Angelina College men’s soccer players show off their newly acquired rings during Friday’s ceremony. The Roadrunner men’s soccer team received their rings for winning the Region XIV Conference Championship in 2023 – the first league win in program history. (Gary Stallard/AC Athletics photo)
In 2023, the Angelina College men’s soccer team accomplished a program first – and it wasn’t even their trip the NJCAA Division I National Tournament in Wichita, Kansas.
No, the team already had been there, done that when it came to qualifying for a national tournament. After all, the program’s first appearance at nationals had occurred the year before.
What the program had never done was win a Region XIV conference championship. Despite knocking on the door for several years, not until 2023 did the Roadrunners finally kick down the door with emphasis.
Angelina College men’s soccer players react after opening their commemorative rings during Friday’s ceremony. The team received the rings after notching the program’s first-ever Region XIV Conference Championship in 2023. (Gary Stallard/AC Athletics photo)
The ‘Runners didn’t lose a regular-season match in 2023, finishing the year 13-2-2, with the only losses occurring in the national tournament. One of those losses came to the eventual national champion.
And for the first time, the Roadrunners captured the Region XIV conference title, beating Northeast Texas Community College in the quarterfinals, Blinn College in the semifinals and Tyler Junior College in the finals.
The Angelina College men’s soccer team received this ring during a ceremony held on Friday on the AC campus. The ring signified the program’s first-ever league championship in Region XIV competition, as the Roadrunners qualified for the NJCAA Division I National Tournament for the second consecutive year. (Gary Stallard/AC Athletics photo)
On Friday, Angelina College staff presented the team and coaches with rings commemorating the big milestone.
“Doing something like that for the first time is a big deal, and these guys were able to bring Angelina College its first Region XIV championship,” AC head coach Martin Melchor said. “Not only that, but they did it by going undefeated and playing in spectacular fashion.”
Angelina College men’s soccer players pose with coaches and staff during Friday’s ceremony. The Roadrunner men’s soccer team received their rings for winning the Region XIV Conference Championship in 2023 – the first league win in program history. (Gary Stallard/AC Athletics photo)
While the ’23 season offered memories galore, Melchor –who earned the Coach of the Year award in 2023 – said his favorite was the night his Roadrunners topped perennial powerhouse Tyler for the conference title.
“It will hard to be the feeling of watching the guys run to our fans in the stands immediately after winning the championship,” Melchor said. “The celebration was just as good as the victory.”
During Friday’s ceremony, several incoming freshmen were on-hand. Although they weren’t part of the ’23 squad, the new Roadrunners were there to feel a part of the newly established tradition.
Angelina College’s Luan Rangel shows off his newly acquired ring during Friday’s ceremony. The Roadrunner men’s soccer team received their rings for winning the Region XIV Conference Championship in 2023 – the first league win in program history. (Gary Stallard/AC Athletics photo)
“I want to set an expectation and a standard of winning for this program,” Melchor said. “The new guys know the bar is set high, and being part of the best men’s soccer team in Region XIV comes with high expectations.”
Along with the players, a few AC staff and administration members received rings as well. Among those was Angelina College president Dr. Michael Simon, who the players praised for his support, especially at the national tournament.
The ceremony was indeed a big deal, but Melchor doesn’t want it to be the last one.
“I hope this just one of many ring ceremonies we get to host at Angelina College,” Melchor said.
