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Mental Health Arts Contest Seeking Entries

By
Luis Ruperto
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 To raise awareness of mental health issues, the annual Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest is announcing its call for submissions from Dec. 1, 2021 until March 15, 2022.

The annual contest is hosted by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission along with the Texas System of Care and the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health at the University of Texas at Austin.

Participants can submit their creative work in one of three categories—original artwork, writing, or photography—that draws on the contest theme, “Why Does Mental Health Matter to You?”

“When people share their perspectives and experiences through art, it can help them process their emotions and kickstart conversations that inspire connection, provide encouragement, and give hope to others facing similar challenges,” said Dr. Courtney Harvey, associate commissioner of the Texas HHSC Office of Mental Health Coordination. “Those healthy discussions can be the push someone may need to seek support and really start taking care of their mental health, and that can save lives.”

The contest is open to Texans of all ages and is judged in four age groups: elementary, middle school, high school and adult. Last year, the contest drew 687 submissions.

The artwork will be judged on originality, creativity and how well it expresses the contest theme. Winners from each category and age group will receive prizes and have their work displayed and published on the Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest website.

For more information, including past winners, rules, and how people can submit artwork, visit gallery.txsystemofcare.org.

Nichols files for re-election

By
Luis Ruperto
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Last week, State Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) filed for re-election for Texas Senate District 3. The newly redrawn district covers much of the existing district including the majority of East Texas. Major changes include picking up the greater part of Jefferson County and losing San Jacinto County and Montgomery County.

“Serving the people of Senate District 3 is a tremendous honor and I humbly ask for their support to continue our important work at the capitol and remain a strong voice for rural Texas,” said Nichols.

Since being elected in 2007, Nichols has displayed a strong conservative record and authored legislation focused on protecting landowners rights, expanding rural broadband access, reforming transportation policy, and promoting free-market principles.

“My work in the Legislature has always reflected the interests and concerns of the constituents I represent,” said Nichols. “Every day their needs are my focus. It is my duty to represent their priorities in the Legislature.”

Nichols has served as Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee since 2013. He is currently the vice-chair of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee and also serves on the Senate Finance, Criminal Justice, Local Government, and Redistricting Committees.

Nichols has consistently been acknowledged as one of the most effective and hardest-working legislators. This year he was recognized for conservative achievement from the American Conservative Union and previously has been designated as a Champion for Free Enterprise by the Texas Association of Business, a Courageous Conservative by the Texas Conservative Coalition, and a Top 10 Best Legislator for the 85th Legislative Session by Texas Monthly Magazine.

Nichols is a businessman from Jacksonville, Texas. In his hometown, he served as a member of the city council, was elected mayor, built four successful manufacturing plants, earned 32 US patents and 128 foreign patents, and created 900 jobs.

“It has been a privilege to serve the people of Senate District 3,” said Nichols. “My record speaks to the values of East Texas and the people I represent. It’s a honor to once again ask for their vote.”

5 Tips to Prep Your Home for Holiday Guests

By
Luis Ruperto
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Cooler temperatures, outings to the Christmas tree farm, game nights and holiday feasts. Now that the holiday season is here, it’s time to prep your home for seasonal fun! Whether you’re hosting a big or small group of family and friends this holiday season, decorating and decluttering around the house can make party prep easier and more enjoyable for everyone. With that in mind, here are some top tips to create functional and stylish spaces that are easy to keep clean and tidy throughout the festivities.

Delightful décor.

Make any room feel warm and welcoming with EasyLiner Removable Adhesive Shelf Liner by Duck Brand. Decorating with laminate is an affordable way to add pops of color to a kitchen backsplash, reading nook or old side table. Choose a print that matches your style and easily stick the laminate to smooth, flat surfaces for a fresh new look that will wow your guests.

Mudroom without messy floors.

Preparing an area near your entryway for bags and shoes is a must when expecting visitors. If you have a bench with storage, add machine-washable liner to the cubby to keep shelves clean and dry. Placing liner by the entrance of your home will also offer extra space to store muddy or wet shoes and stop salt and snow from tracking in the house. When guests leave, toss the liner in the wash and reuse.

Spotless spaces for kids.

All holiday gatherings need a space for kids to have fun and play together. While setting up for arts and crafts, line the table with a clear, textured liner to prevent crayons, markers or glue from damaging surfaces. When it’s time to clean up, simply wipe the liner or toss it in the dishwasher.

Get your guest room ready.

If you have family staying overnight, it’s time to get your guest room in shape. Dress up drawers and closet shelves with Smooth Top EasyLiner. The grip bottom will keep the liner and items in place. Trendy patterns will elevate your home décor and guests will appreciate how clean and homey the space feels during their stay.

Bathroom basics.

Once you’re done prepping the guest room, don’t forget about the guest bathroom. Keep styling stations and the bath clean and tidy with shelf liner and a bath mat. Duck Brand offers a variety of cushioned, machine-washable bath and shower mats for extra comfort and safety. The Clorox mat is also designed to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the mat.

Making these small updates around the house now will keep your most-used spaces clean and tidy to ensure family and friends are comfortable and happy over the holidays.

Lumberjacks Get Back to Winning Ways Against Northwestern State

By
Luis Ruperto
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The SFA Lumberjacks took care of business in a hard-fought battle against Northwestern State, defeating the Demons 72-68 thanks to a late go-ahead layup from Calvin Solomon with 37 seconds to go in the game. Sadaidriene Hall then made the stop on the other end and proceeded to make both of his free throws to secure the victory. 

The ‘Jacks got off to a hot start, as they sparked a 14-0 run early on to take a 16-3 advantage just five minutes into the game. The Demons fought hard, however, and slowly worked their way back into the game while they reduced the Lumberjack lead to just 4 as they headed into the break. 

Similar to the first half, the ‘Jacks came out of the break hot, opening up the second with a 10-0 run to extend the lead to 14. Once again, however, the Demons refused to go away, as they clawed their way back to take the lead with 7:46 remaining in the game. The rest of the game was a back-and-forth affair, but the Lumberjacks showed resilience and maturity while they pulled out the victory in the final minute. 

The Lumberjacks outscored Northwestern State 36-28 in the paint, including a 20-10 advantage in the first half. They also took advantage of the Demons’ miscues, scoring 21 points off turnovers and 17 points on fast breaks.

Gavin Kensmil led the way with 16 points and 7 rebounds. The big man also played his part on the other end, coming away with 2 blocks and 2 rebounds. The ‘Jacks as a team finished the game with 10 total blocks. 

Hall did not disappoint in his first start in a Lumberjack uniform, wrapping up the game with 13 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks, including the game-clinching block and free-throws. David Kachelries and Roti Ware also finished the game with 13 points. 

The ‘Jacks will return home on Wednesday, December 1st, as they host Lincoln University at 6:30 p.m. inside William R. Johnson Coliseum.

Ladyjacks Dominate as They Go 3-0 in Katy

By
Luis Ruperto
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The SFA Ladyjacks improved to 7-1 as they took down Louisiana-Monroe 80-53 in the third and final game of the Van Chancellor Classic in Katy. Six of the ‘Jacks 7 wins this season have been by 20 or more points and rank in the top-20 in the nation with a 26.1 scoring margin. 

The ‘Jacks wasted no time and jumped out to a quick 8-0 lead to set the tone for the rest of the game early. They then forced 8 turnovers in the second quarter and built a comfortable 43-20 lead to take into the break. They quickly picked up where they left off in the second half and played excellent team basketball to extend their lead in the third quarter. Nine of their 10 made field goals in the third period came off of assists and they did not turn the ball over once in the process. 

The Ladyjacks finished with 24 total assists on 27 made baskets overall with only 10 turnovers. On the other end, the ‘Jacks forced 26 turnovers and turned them into 27 points. They currently rank 2nd in the nation in forced turnovers and turnover margin. 

Avery Brittingham earned her first double-double of the season as she finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds (9 offensive) and went 7-8 from the line. Aiyana Johnson collected 14 points and 5 rebounds on 7-8 shooting while coming away with a couple of blocks as well. BriAnna Mitchell knocked down a couple of threes on her way to 11 points and 5 assists. Stephanie Visscher and Destini Lombard came away with 3 steals each.

The ‘Jacks will return from Katy to take on Our Lady of the Lake on Saturday, December 2nd at 2:00 p.m. inside William R. Johnson Coliseum.

Roadrunners’ Balanced Scoring Beats Strength N’ Motion Five AC Players Reach Double Figures in Win

By
Luis Ruperto
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In their final tune-up before tipping off Region XIV Conference play this week, the Angelina College Roadrunners used a balanced scoring attack to beat Strength N’ Motion 89-66 Saturday at Shands Gymnasium.

            Five ‘Runners reached double figures, with Caleb Johnson scoring 19 points to lead the way. Johnson was 6-of-9 from the field and 2-of-3 from three-point range.

            Joining Johnson in double figures were Quandre Bullock with 15 points (Bullock added six assists), Raeshaun Ambris with 12 points and six assists, Errol White with 11 points and eight rebounds and Zachariah Selvage with 10 points and four steals.

            The ‘Runners forced 20 SNM turnovers – converting those into 20 points – while committing just nine the entire game.

            Osiris Mahr led SNM with 13 points. Teammate Jovan Simprage added 12 in the loss.

            The Roadrunners (4-5) open conference play at home on Wednesday against Navarro College. Game time at Shands Gymnasium is 7 p.m. Live streaming will be available at angelinaathletics.com.

Shop Local Gift Guide

By
Madi Stephens
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Give gifts that feel like home. East Texas has so many great shops that we struggled to narrow it down to just these listed, but we do hope that this guide reminds you that shopping locally makes a difference in your community. 

Madi’s Picks:

The White Peacock, Lufkin

The White Peacock in downtown Lufkin is a local favorite. They have an enticing wall of infused olive oils and vinegars, along with all kinds of unique spices, teas, snacks, condiments, sweets, kitchen tools, and so much more! They even have a variety of gift sets that are perfect for gift giving.  

Rudy’s Honey, Livingston

Rudy’s Honey is not your average local honey. They have creamed honeys, honey straws, and even skincare products. Everything is made with local East Texas wildflower honey, so you know it’s sure to be amazing! 

Farmhouse Bakery, Lufkin

The Farmhouse Bakery has all kinds of treats to gift anyone and everyone! From little bon bons and cupcakes to homemade pies and cinnamon rolls, Farmhouse Bakery can help you check everyone off your list. 

Home Grown, Livingston

Home Grown just might be Livingston’s cutest shop! They are Texas to their core, and we love it! You won’t find their East Texas stickers and t-shirts anywhere else. Homegrown is perfect for anyone on your list who loves their East Texas roots! 

Misty’s Picks:

A Furniture Fetish, Lufkin

A Furniture Fetish has an incredible selection of unique furniture and household finds. Head to downtown Lufkin or their online shop to find your home’s new statement piece.

Goodwill, Nacogdoches

Goodwill always has fun finds, but Nac’s store seems to be filled with extra fun bargains! For a fun holiday adventure, take the family or a group of friends, set a limit, and see who can make the craziest outfit on a budget.

Twigs and Twine Tea Room, Corrigan

Twigs and Twine is known for their delicious and nutritious teas. Take a quick drive to Corrigan to check out the teas, gifts, and food, or get a tea through delivery!

Texas Pick:

Gokey’s Old Town Emporium and Creamery, Goodrich

Gokey’s is full of old school charm and nostalgia. They have all kinds of antiques, seasonal gifts, Texas themed items, and unique finds. If you’re looking for a fun experience for kids of any age, Gokey’s has an old-fashioned candy counter and ice cream for a fun, sweet treat! 

We hope our picks inspired you, and reminded you, that shopping local matters. So this holiday season, whoever you have on your list, your neighborhood shops are the place to shop.

Sustainability Gift Guide

By
Madi Stephens
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This holiday season shop with a purpose. Each of these unique businesses has at least one of two commitments: decrease fashion’s ecological and environmental impact, and/or ensure safe workplaces and livable wages for all workers. Each of these gifts has double the reward: a great gift for you to give (or keep), as well as directly supporting businesses and artisans around the world. 

Interwoven Collective

Jewelry, Leather Goods

Mallory Ann founded Interwoven Collective with a simple goal: make room for more women at the table. Interwoven Collective partners directly with artisans and small businesses based in Ethiopia to ensure that each woman who handcrafts your jewelry or leather goods is making a living wage in a safe environment. 

Our Picks:

Leather and Jewelry Gift Set 

Anida Laye Necklace 

B’s Minimal Stackable Rings 

Raven+Lily

Jewelry, Bags, Home

Raven + Lily create sustainable, lasting fashion by sourcing their products from local artist communities across the globe. 

Our Picks:

Yami Backpack – Menta + Ocean Blue 

Anya Hoops 

Wildlife Works Hadithi Basket

Slumlove

Clothing, Accessories

Slumlove has three core values: ethically made, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible. They start with naturally dyed yarn that’s then made into beautiful, classic pieces by women living in Kenya’s Kibera Slum. 

Our Picks:

The Hemless Vee – Haze  

The Mock Neck Tank – Black 

The Knit Shell – Grey 

Bonus: Men’s The Henley – Black 

Public Goods

Home Goods, Groceries, Cleaning Products

Public Goods is committed to making sustainable easy and affordable. Their simple, modern designs and wide variety of goods makes Public Goods an easy and affordable choice. 

Our Picks:

Cedar and Suede Candle 

Bamboo Straws 

Variety 6-Pack Wine 

Once Kids

Toys

Once Kids was designed to fill a gap in the toy market: fun, exciting toys that are sustainable and non-toxic. They firmly believe in giving back, and with every product purchased, Once Kids plants a tree. 

Our Picks:

Eco-Bricks Builder Box Subscription 

Playhard Heroes DIY Mini-Figure 

Eco-Bricks 3-in-1 Builds – Reptiles 

Wanderlust – Paris  

Topo Designs

Outdoor Gear, Clothing, Backpacks, Accessories

From its people to its products, sustainability is woven into everything Topo Designs does. They create quality, long-lasting clothes, packs, and anything else you might need for your next outdoor or urban adventure! 

Our Picks:

Mini Quick Pack Canvas 

Sport Socks 

Bandana – Campscape Print 

Lady Roadrunners Take Two in Classic Walker, Gilbert Lead Way in Wins

By
Luis Ruperto
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Angelina College’s Lady Roadrunners, after taking a year away because of the pandemic, feature just two returning players from two years ago: Lovietta “Pinky” Walker and Derrica Gilbert, both of whom played major roles in AC’s sweep this weekend in the Angelina Classic at Shands Gymnasium.

            Walker blew up the stat sheets in Friday’s 76-67 win over LSU-Eunice, finishing with 26 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. Zaraya March added 18 points and four steals, and Matilda Gordon pitched in with eight points and nine rebounds. Defensively, the Lady ‘Runner defense forced 20 Lady Bengal turnovers, converting those into 16 points.

            LSU-Eunice’s Autumn Chassion led her team with 22 points.

            Saturday’s matchup against McLennan College proved an even tougher test, with the Highlassies taking advantage of some early cold shooting on the AC end of the floor. The Lady Roadrunners went just 4-of-18 from the field in the first quarter and fell behind 19-13 after the first eight minutes.

            The Lady ‘Runners – specifically sophomore Derrica Gilbert – caught fire in the second half to break open a close contest on the way to a 68-57 win.

            Gilbert knocked down four of her six three-pointers in the final period to finish with a game-high 22 points. Walker added another double-double (19 points, 11 rebounds) and Makayla Williams drilled a trio of three pointers to finish with 12 points. March also got in on the double-double action, adding 11 points and 10 rebounds; and Smith swiped another six steals, as AC forced 22 Highlassie turnovers.

For the weekend, Smith finished with eight total steals, giving her 15 for the season. Mersadez Nephew led McLennan with 12 points in the loss.            

AC’s ladies face North American University at 1 p.m. Sunday at Shands Gymnasium

Lady Roadrunners Earn Soccer Honors, Dueck, Montero Named to All-Region List

By
Luis Ruperto
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Angelina College’s soccer programs returned to action in a big way in 2021, with both the men’s and women’s team breaking records and spending time in the spotlight of various national polls.

            Following such a milestone-setting year, there was no doubt some Lady Roadrunners would earn post-season accolades.

            Emilie Dueck and Camila Montero both earned Region XIV All-Region honors for their efforts on the pitch.

            Dueck, a freshman forward from Villa Nueva High School in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, used her physical gifts of speed and power in a relentless effort to win every ball. Dueck finished second on the AC team with 19 total points, including nine goals and an assist. Dueck, who always seemed to find herself within shooting range, made those opportunities count: She netted nine of her 13 shot attempts for a .692 average.

            Midfielder Montero, a freshman from Langham Creek High School in Houston, led the team with 21 points, racking up seven goals (including three game winners) and seven assists. Possessing a deft touch when passing the ball, Montero was the prime facilitator for the Lady ‘Roadrunners’ relentless offensive attack. She also possessed a big leg, booming in several of her goals from 30 yards out or more.

            As a team, the Lady Roadrunners established a program record for wins in a season with 11 while finishing the year ranked No. 17 in the nation.

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