The Daniel McMahon Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (Athens) selected Bel Air Elementary student Baylee Hurd as the 5th-grade winner of their American History Essay Contest. She is pictured with her English language arts teacher Juan Moreno. Baylee and other winners will be honored at the George Washington Tea in February and given a bronze pin. (Courtesy photo)
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By Michael V. Hannigan
Five years later, it’s over
The nativity scene fight that rallied thousands to the Henderson County Courthouse lawn in 2011 ended quietly in a courtroom this week.
Patrick Green’s lawsuit against County Judge Richard Sanders was dismissed Tuesday in the 3rd District Court.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation first protested the nativity scene in 2011, sending a letter to Commissioners Court saying, “We request that, as the Henderson County Commissioners, you take immediate action to ensure that no religious displays are on city or county property. Please inform us in writing of the steps you are taking to remedy this First Amendment violation so that we may notify our complainant.”
Commissioners refused, and the controversy gained national attention with then-Attorney General and now Gov. Greg Abbott vowing to help defend the county.
A year later, San Antonio atheist Patrick Greene added his threats of a lawsuit to the controversy.
After years of threats, Greene finally filed a lawsuit against the County Judge in 2014, saying Sanders, “abused his position as judicial head of Henderson County, by giving official governmental permission to private citizens to display this Christian Nativity scene. This also violated Article 1, Section 6 of the Texas Constitution; ‘No human authority ought, in any case whatever, to control or interfere with the rights of conscience in matters of religion, and no preference shall ever be given by lay to any religious society or mode of worship.’”
No action was taken in the case after it was filed except for this week’s dismissal.
When asked about the County’s defense of the nativity scene from outside criticism, Sanders said: “We did it correctly and we did it lawfully and I think that’s why today we’re able to have our nativity scene out there where it belongs.”
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Eighth-grader Litsy De Luna won Best of Show in Athens Middle School’s campus-wide art contest: Christmas Around the World. Merry Christmas to all! (Dora Hempling/AISD)
The post AMS art contest best of show winner appeared first on Henderson County Now.
By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Coordinator
The Athens ISD Board of Trustees awarded several construction contracts at Thursday night’s monthly meeting, including one to a local business. The contracts begin the next phase of work for the district at Athens High School and the three elementary schools: Bel Air, South Athens and Central Athens.
The school district received competitive proposals on Nov. 17 for the additions and/or renovations at those sites. The following were awarded, contingent upon the contractor selection process and the district receiving the required insurance and bonds: Athens-based Red Dot Building (pre-engineered metal building); Demolition Specialties; Miller Sierra Contractors (building concrete); Lonestar Industries (masonry); Plyler Steel Fabrication (structural steel); Premier Services (plumbing); TDR Contractors and East Texas Refrigeration (HVAC); Boggs Electric Co.; Stephenson Dirt Contracting (mass excavation); and JDR Contracting (site utilities).
The contracts were unanimously awarded by the trustees, with the exception of board member Steve McElhany, who abstained from voting due to a conflict of interests. Awarding of contracts is based on an evaluation that includes criteria such as purchase price, ability of vendor to provide adequate manpower and resources to complete the project on schedule, reputation, quality of work, past relationship with the district, total longterm cost to the district and more.
In other action, the board approved an out-of-state travel request from AHS Choir Director Bridget Scott to take 34 students, with at least six adult chaperones, to Nashville, Tenn., in May to participate in a variety of music-related activities including a songwriting clinic. The trip will be no cost to the district.
The board also approved the disbursement of funds for the purchase of HVAC training equipment from Technical Laboratory System in the amount of $332,882. Ninety-five percent of that amount will be reimbursed to Athens ISD by a Texas Workforce Commission Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant. Athens ISD, in conjunction with Trinity Valley Community College, will begin offering an HVAC certification program to Athens High School students beginning the the fall of 2017.
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Santa and Mrs. Claus (AKA Dr. Kenneth Lemmon and Paula Lemmon) made an appearance at South Athens Elementary on Thursday to much delight. Santa read to several classes of students before returning with his bride to the North Pole in preparation for the big day. (Meredith Lemmon photo)
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A memorial visitation for Robert Hanes, 72, of Athens, Texas will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2016 from 6-8:00 P.M. at the Hannigan Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Athens. There will be graveside services held at the DFW National Cemetery in Dallas at a later date.
Mr. Hanes went home to the Lord on December 14, 2016 in Athens.
Robert Elmon Hanes was born on March 7, 1944 in Dallas, Texas the son of Elmon Hanes Jr. and Virginia Frances Jones Hanes. He was a member of Little Birds Car Club, Thunderbird Car Club and the Grease Rags Car Club. He was a hard worker who spent his free time doing what he loved; rebuilding antique cars and building airplanes. PaPaw was a family man; a loving husband of over 40 years, a father and grandfather who will be missed by all he knew and loved.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Kevin Lee Hanes.
He is survived by his loving wife Connie of Athens; daughter Kristy Lynn Hanes Lowe and husband Jeffrey of Wills Point; daughter-in-law Brandi Kay Hanes of Mabank; two grandchildren, Hannah Kay Hanes, Summer Michelle Lowe and a host of family and friends.
In lieu of flowers the family would like donations made in Robert’s memory to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Hannigan Smith Funeral Home of Athens.
You may light a candle or write condolences to the family at: www.hannigansmith.com.
The post Obituary: Robert Hanes appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Press release
The 2017 Cedar Creek Lake Area Day at the Texas State Capitol will be February 7.
The Cedar Creek Lake Area Chamber of Commerce will be sponsoring the trip and making the arrangements. The cost per person will be $75 for chamber members and $85 for non-members. The nominal fee includes bus transportation, snacks on the bus and lunch at the Doubletree Hotel. As in years past, the only out-of-pocket expense to participants is what they may choose to spend at the Capitol Gift Shop.
This one-day trip to the state capitol of Texas is a powerful opportunity to be part of a unified group representing the entire Cedar Creek Lake Area community, with recognition from the floor of the House and the Senate in the 85th Texas Legislature. Invitations are being extended to Senator Robert Nichols, Senator Bob Hall, State Representatives Lance Gooden and John Wray to join the Cedar Creek Lake delegation for lunch or at some point during the day if they’re unavailable for lunch.
The chamber staff is working with staff members from the various elected officials’ offices to ensure that the day runs smoothly.
In the afternoon, the group will meet in a reserved room in the Capitol, where the speaker agenda includes representatives from TxDot and the office of Homeland Security.
CCLACC President Jo Ann Hanstrom said, “Because of time restraints, we’re cutting our number of agencies to two of real interest and concern. Hopefully, this will allow more time for questions and our presenters won’t feel rushed.”
She added that the reduction in speakers will also allow a little more free time for the local participants before boarding the bus to return to the lake.
The trip will start in downtown Mabank at approximately 5 a.m. and will depart Austin for the return trip at 4 p.m., with an expected arrival back at the lake around 8 p.m. There will only be one bus hired and space is limited, so you’re encouraged to reaervations.
Make your reservation now and plan to be a part of the traditional Cedar Creek Lake Area Day in the 85th Texas Legislature. It’s fun, it’s informative and it’s important to the community.
Call 903-887-3152 or email info@CedarCreekLakeChamber.com for more information.
The post CCL Day in the Legislature set for Feb. 7 appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Athens Public Education Foundation President Sarah Grey presents the Athens ISD Board of Trustees with a symbolic check for $29,597 — the amount of funding that was given out by APEF to district teachers on Dec. 15 in education innovation grants. Pictured with Grey, who is holding the check, are (from left) trustees Eric Smith, Alicea Elliott, Renda Garner, Steve McElhany, Robert Risko, Bob Spears and Superintendent Blake Stiles.
The post APEF, AISD celebrate grants given to teachers appeared first on Henderson County Now.
The Henderson County Appraisal District Employees donated to the Henderson County Food Pantry recently. Tori Lopez, Christy Turner, Bill Jackson, and Besty Murphy presented the donation. (Courtesy photo)
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Press release
Trinity Valley Community College announces the honors list recipients for the Fall 2016 semester. Listed alphabetically by hometown, they are:
PRESIDENT’S LIST
ALTO: Miranda A. Stephenson.
ATHENS: Stephen M. Alvarado, Bailey D. Bell, Jordan E. Bennett, Blake E. Box, Allen P. Byrd, Jennifer Campa, Christopher C. Collins, Joanna L. Davila, Preston T. Furr, Claudia A. Geisendorff, Austen D. Grammer, Cortney A. Grimes, John T. Head, Katheren A. Henderson, Hayleigh M. Hillhouse, Amondra Y. Hornbuckle, Lauren C. Jones, Israel M. Leon, Kathryn A. Martinez, Raymond A. McDaniel, Stephanie Miranda, Valerie J. Morales, Katelynn M. Owen, Gillian C. Pool, Stephanie J. Ritz, Jayde C. Robertson, Alejandrina Rodriguez, Manuel T. Rodriguez, Chandler F. Rowan, Andrea Salazar, Mayuko Shinohara, Brayton A. Stenovitch, Blake N. Stutts, Miguel S. Tabuso, Lauren N. Takata, Kathleen Tellez, Shelby T. Thomas, Anna M. Wood, Bekah J. Wood.
BALCH SPRINGS: Bertha A. Calderon.
BEDFORD: Shilpa Bajracharya.
BEN WHEELER: Kleigh D. Hughes, Florentina Landaverde-Lope, Gloria C. Rivera, Angela L. Weakley.
BROWNSBORO: Texas L. Desselles, Michelle Ritterbach, Terry G. Solley, Paula J. Willard.
BRYAN: Brandi L. Bratton.
BUFFALO: Samantha J. Gray.
CANTON: Jana C. Guthrie, Trevor H. Hammons, Michael P. Heard, Grant T. Lein, Courtney M. Mangrum, Niyaz N. Murtazin, Joshua C. Musgrove, Taylor A. Phillips, Grady A. Priest.
CENTRAL POINT, OR: Jeremy D. Seiver.
CHANDLER: Madelyn C. Ellis, Hanna V. Jenkins.
CLAYTON: Alexandra N. Williams.
CRANDALL: Maxine E. Monroe, Lauren N. Nelson.
DALLAS: Kassandra G. Becerra, Nancy Becerra.
EDNA: Taylor R. Frenzel.
ELKHART: Meagan L. Cox, Aly D. Graves, Sarah L. Robertson.
EUSTACE: Tammy K. Blevins, Rebecca J. Glisson, Autymn O. Ridgle, Mary J. Usmiller.
FALL RIVER, MA: Carlos D. Andrade.
FERRIS: Andrea L. Hartsell.
FLINT: Sarah K. Rush.
FORNEY: Michael A. Garcia, Aubree D. Guest, Paiten A. Seago, Brandon H. Stewart, Alexa N. Thomas, Ryan C. Wagle, Ashley M. Wall.
FORT WORTH: Angel N. Mansukhani.
FRANKSTON: Hayle J. Booth, Natalie R. Brown, Samantha D. Ellis, Heather L. McLane, Britany M. Perry, Hunter D. Ramsey, Laura L. Rogers, Jessica L. Wiggins.
GAUSE: Tyson E. Arledge.
GRAND SALINE: Emily D. Barber, Madilyn C. Lovett.
GRAPELAND: Lacy L. Hammond, Hunter K. Smith.
GUN BARREL CITY: Alexandria N. Hawkins, Jared M. Lenz.
HALLSVILLE: Jaylon D. Kerby.
HOUSTON: Alyssa K. Delossantos.
IRVING: Avery J. Flowers.
JACKSONVILLE: Ana C. Esquivel, Samantha R. McLeod, Misti L. Moon, Lacy B. Whiteley, Tiffanie L. Whiteley.
KANSAS CITY, MO: Amaad Wainright.
KAUFMAN: Charles P. Borrego, Lori E. Cox, Jacob E. Daniels, Ryan N. Gentzel, Tyler M. Goodfred, Jia Gu, Cara I. Helpenstell, Jennifer L. Layne, Sandra Moore, Michaela R. Stefan, Diana Yanez.
KEMP: Antonio T. Aguilar, Macrina M. Ellis, Rima K. Griffin, Courtney B. Olivarez, Sierra F. Schoenle, Codi C. Wilhite.
KERENS: Angelica T. Lippart.
LARUE: Sydney B. Forester.
LOG CABIN: Meagan R. Gunter.
LUBBOCK: Haven C. Jock.
MABANK: Jacqueline A. Alcantara, Megan E. Bell, Garry T. Bonsal, Jessica M. Bradley, Tina M. Cheramie, Sydney J. Dandro, Emmalee R. Doss, Sean E. Dykes, Bailey C. George, Cindy R. Loden, Traci R. Mcpherson, Mallory R. Petersen, Steven C. Ragan, Ashley L. Rainaud, Brittany R. Rainaud, Krista M. Tapp, Rasheem M. Wynn.
MALAKOFF: Kendall N. Bruton, Karlene E. Kebodeaux, Savannah M. Meider, Emily A. Shields.
MONTALBA: Chelsea R. Motl, Jana E. Walthall.
MURCHISON: Sarah E. Furlong.
NECHES: Morgan B. Brown.
OAKWOOD: Charlee R. Cockrell, Robert M. Myrick.
PALESTINE: Juliana N. Amoke, Monica M. Attaway, Cynthia A. Baker, Rosario G. Balderas, Amy M. Bowden, Alysia E. Braun, Glenn L. Burchard, Phaik L. Chan-Wasicek, Serena L. Coker, Kasey R. Crutcher, Flor E. Cruz, Oghenerukevw G. Ekayoma, Sylvia L. Garcia, Kimberely K. Gatlin, Morgan N. Gilley, Morghyn T. Harper, Trevor D. Johnson, Jessica C. Lamaster, Dorothy B. Martin, Donald H. McCoy, Annalise N. Meyers, Anthony J. Okrongly, Adewale N. Oyedele, Louis T. Perkins, Ana P. Roman, Carlos O. Ruiz, Joanne R. Sanchez, Amanda N. Slayton, Macy L. Stone, Patrick A. Willett, Margaret E. Williams, Anna K. Yeakey.
QUINLAN: Tommy G. Page.
RED ROCK: Shannon L. Klaus.
RICHARDSON: Michael R. Curtis.
ROCKWALL: Emily K. McMurry.
SAGINAW: Hannah M. Peacock.
SCURRY: Jeremiah B. Odom.
SEAGOVILLE: Ashley N. Browning.
SEVEN POINTS: Daniel R. Matijosaitis.
TENNESSEE COLONY: Tommy R. Gilpin, Brian M. Lofton, Gatlin B. Rash.
TERRELL: Corbyn B. Alcocer, Estephania Aleman, Tyler W. Armstrong, Sabrina Correa, Joshua S. Lewis, Andrea M. Norris, Kevin O. Puebla, Ryan R. Scott, Abel P. Shinabery, Kayla R. Shires, Cathleen R. Tijerina, Jacqueline C. Vega.
TOMBALL: Joseph M. Blankenship.
TOOL: Tony Biernacki, Dylan R. Wilson.
TRINITY: Megan H. Weber.
TYLER: Amanda C. Crawford.
WILLS POINT: Christopher R. Goolsby, Douglas R. Hayden, Chance L. Holt, Heather D. Jones, Anthony J. Lodi.
DEAN’S LIST
ADKINS: Samantha N. Tamburo.
ALLEN: Jalen J. Guyton.
ATHENS: Samantha K. Acker, Ideal Ademaj, Rebecca L. Archer, Caroline T. Bodziak, Christian J. Bonilla, Justin C. Bragg, Kaylee B. Buckley, Priscila R. Castro, Princess E. Ere, Evyn J. Fletcher, Lani K. Ford, Tanner M. Fowler, Diana P. Giordani, Esperanza Hernandez, Muhammad A. Isfahany, English L. Jackson, Misty D. Johnston, Sammantha S. Megaw, Ashlee N. Murphy, Katarina Nicic, Bethany D. Oglesby, Arrom B. Paknia, Eloisa Peredia, Gabrielle N. Robinson, Leopold D. Schaller, Alexandra N. Simmons, Janeth Slaughter, Samantha K. Smith, Shawntae N. Teague, Benjamin R. Vandercolft, Colton R. Wilson.
BROKEN ARROW, OK: Lauren E. Holland.
BROOKLYN, NY: Ryan Preston.
BROWNSBORO: Rachel A. Green, Jessica L. Hardy, Joseph S. Ramirez.
CANTON: Madison N. Bass, Benjamin A. Hayes, Katherine T. Pedwano, Samantha R. Smith, Nicholas E. Stevens, James P. Vogt.
CHANDLER: Laura B. Croasmun, Sarah A. Hornby, Jamie P. Lehman.
CHICAGO, IL: Joshua Stamps.
COLUMBIA, IL: Elizabeth A. Coplin.
CRANDALL: Robert A. Befeld, Misty M. Brown, Marcos Delgadillo, Briley L. Knowles, Randi L. Woodham.
CROCKETT: Betina G. Abu-Dawood, Marquita T. Beasley, Bryan A. Bowman.
CRYSTAL LAKE, IL: Jade M. Regner.
DEER PARK: Blake H. Stephenson.
DENTON: Jesse D. Delarosa.
DIANA: Auryan J. Parks.
EDGEWOOD: Shannon G. Anderson, Courtney R. Lauterbach, Joshua G. Sharff.
ELKHART: Taylor C. Cooper, Ashley N. Davis, Brooklyn M. Facklam, Zackary R. Gray, Elbert E. Homan, Brandon L. Jackson, James A. Reeves, Richard J. Welch.
ERIE, CO: Christian S. Desouza.
EUSTACE: Kayelyn M. Ashmore, Amanda M. Beets, Shannon L. Felts, Sunni R. Goodell, Keairra K. Hargest, Keenan K. Hargest, Amy L. Morton, Chad A. Tindel.
FLINT: Christopher C. Tidwell.
FORNEY: Blake A. Bennett, Tanner J. Blakely, Mary L. Bliven, Caleb M. Clay, Alexa M. Corbit, Monica R. Cortez, Nathaniel D. Depappe, Ryan T. Firth, Caylin B. Gaines, Tyra L. Johnson, Katelyn N. Kitts, Gabriela Nunez, Patrick H. Wallace.
FRANKSTON: Audra Y. Harmon, Catelin H. Jones, Alyssa N. Smith, Johnny W. Taylor.
FRUITVALE: Christian R. Rowe.
GRAND SALINE: Matthew D. Powers, Brian A. Smith.
GRAPELAND: Marlana L. Bush, Jenna E. Hollingsworth, Michaela L. McLeod, Alyssa G. Morgan, Georgia M. Ruff.
GUN BARREL CITY: Nathan L. Barr, Camden A. Hunstable , Madeline M. Maldonado, Angel S. Moore, Paige S. Ramos, Lindsay K. Rogers.
HEARTLAND: Alexis Arredondo, Mason S. Berry, Kelsi R. Miller.
KATY: Christal B. Smith.
KAUFMAN: Benjamin J. Balis, Coleen L. Bedair , Erika Flores, Callie E. Garrison, Samantha L. Goodwin, Elisabeth Herrera, Dustin M. Hevener, Jacie H. Julian, Porfirio I. Lopez, Connor B. Petsch, Samantha N. Polege, Katlyn B. Reschke, Desyre M. Rodriguez, Matthew C. Smith, Gwendolyne G. Williams, Lindsey E. Williamson, Larry D. Wood, David I. Yescas.
KELLER: Richard B. Baccarini.
KEMP: Lucy L. Anderson, Haley D. Christian, Matthew J. Davis, Rusty S. Henry, Jasmine R. Mann, Mark D. Sanders, Haley R. Ward.
KINGSVILLE: Celestial N. Gomez.
KYLE: Isabella Estrada.
LARUE: Bridgette Hairgrove, Jonathan A. Hairgrove, Araceli Ornelas.
LONGVIEW: Haley E. Boyett.
MABANK: Jack W. Allison, Mckenzie J. Grant, Sherry P. Richman, Stacy L. Welling.
MALAKOFF: Vinn B. Coleman-hall, Beautiful R. Garner, Samantha R. Phillips, Holden M. Sparks.
MARTINS MILL: Molly C. Hilton.
MILWAUKEE: Shakeela A. Fowler.
MONTALBA: Justin W. Armstrong, Joshua A. Griffin, Abigayle R. Sims, Amber M. Tozier.
MURCHISON: Brandon J. Adair, Cathlynn M. Edwards.
NACOGDOCHES: Bryana M. Coen.
NAVASOTA: Shelton R. Eppler.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK: Mali J. Lenz.
PALESTINE: Daniel Arzola, Reemi D. Black, Cameron S. Brummett, Jennifer J. Burchard, Giovanni J. Cerrato, Chason D. Churchman, Abigail A. Clark, Megan B. Conaway, Michelle N. Cook, Phuong H. Do, Douglas W. Foust, Sydney A. Gallina, Cesar A. Galvan, Kathleen R. Gaydon, Ashley L. Hall, Timothy A. Ham, Audrey K. Holmes, Aaron N. Jackson, Scott A. Keon, Kathryn M. King, Jacqueline K. Maranga, Emmaculate Ngum, Ian A. Nicholson, Robert D. Oberlender, James T. Pitts, Brianna B. Samford, Valerie A. Sanchez, Bobby D. Sharp, Laura Velazquez, Payton R. Wallace.
PASADENA: Matthew K. Martin.
POYNOR: Vincent C. Tobin.
QUINLAN: William C. Fitzgerald, Veronica Olvera, Donnie W. Whitley.
ROUND LAKE, IL: Dylan Barrett.
SAN ANTONIO: Caden S. Novikoff.
SCURRY: Jeffrey D. Baum, Lacey A. Burroughs, Tamara L. Dunham, Zachary L. McCalley, Kayleigh N. Page, Amanda K. Tennison.
SEVEN POINTS: Jordyn T. Costlow.
SUGARLAND: Hailey C. Curl.
TENNESSEE COLONY: Tamber A. Gilpin, Cosmas A. Nwogwugwu.
TERRELL: Jovana Arango, Ellis A. Bishop, Holly D. Cowden, Kevin A. Devora, Travis M. Fairley, Lindsey A. Hanan, Shelby J. Lee, Michael D. Lewis, Grant C. Munn, Randi D. Munn, Joaquin C. Munoz, Jesus Ortega, Maria C. Pena, Rebecca A. Pennington, John J. Riley, Eric H. Sun, Angelica M. Ware, Star E. Woolly.
THE WOODLANDS: Allicia R. Bauersfeld.
TOOL: Justin R. Neal.
TRINIDAD: Tyler S. Crews, Kelsey R. McLaren, Heather R. Monroe.
WAXAHACHIE: Anna E. Wilhoite.
WEATHERFORD: Michelle E. Miller.
Students must be enrolled in at least 12 semester hours, make no failing grades and secure an average of at least 4.0 grade points for the semester to be included on the President’s List, and at least a 3.5 grade points to be included on the Dean’s List.
The post TVCC releases President’s and Dean’s lists appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Press release
Trinity Valley Community College conferred degrees on a fall semester record 279 students during commencement ceremonies held Tuesday at Cardinal Gym.
TVCC President Dr. Jerry King told graduates, “…as you walk out the door tonight after graduation, new doors and new opportunities and new challenges will await you. We encourage you use what you have learned at TVCC to meet those challenges. Continue to work hard, be positive, stay motivated, be persistent, be focused, be determined, use what you have learned to solve problems, make good choices, and don’t forget the importance of lifelong learning. We know that you can and will be successful in whatever in life you choose to endeavor.”
Students who received degrees/certificates from TVCC during graduation ceremonies Tuesday are listed alphabetically by hometown:
AA – Associate of Arts
AAS – Associate of Applied Science
CER — Certificate
ALLEN: Jalen J. Guyton, AA.
ALTO: Emily E. Parker, AA; Miranda A. Stephenson, CER.
ATHENS: Jetmira Ademaj, AA; Destanie L. Ambrose, AA; Ernesto Aranda, AA; Joe W. Ausbrooks, CER; Lindsey K. Bever, CER; Gabrielle N. Brooks, CER; Anahi Campa, AA; Yureida Castaneda, CER; Emerald N. Castillo, AA; Joanna L. Davila, AAS; Sierra C. Franklin, AA; Rene Garcia, AA; Amber R. Garrett, CER; Juan J. Guzman, AA; Jordan W. Harris, AA; Samantha J. Hawk, AA; Samantha J. Hawkins, AA; Korwyn J. Hill, AAS; Hayleigh M. Hillhouse, CER; Mark R. Ingram, AA; Caryn E. Jackson, AA; Lauren C. Jones, CER; Brian S. Lookabaugh, AA; Kelsi P. Lookabaugh, AA; Angela M. Minjarez, AA; Charles M. Mongare, AA; Valerie J. Morales, CER; Diana C. Ornelas, AA; Alejandrin Rodriguez, CER; Chandler F. Rowan, CER; Rebecca A. Sayward, AA; Alexandra N. Simmons, AA; Shelby T. Thomas, CER; Jessica T. Tumlinson, AA; Cristofa J. Wasylciw, AA; Catherine A. Williams, AA; Alexis B. Young, AA.
BALCH SPRINGS: Dorothy M. Talley, AA.
BEDFORD: Shilpa Bajracharya, CER.
BEN WHEELER: Kleigh D. Hughes, CER.
BROWNSBORO: Ruth B. Luke, CER.
BUFFALO: Samantha J. Gray, AA.
CADDO MILLS: Debra K. Cryer, AA.
CANTON: Amie L. Hubbard, CER; Jessica N. Johnson, CER; Marilyn G. Lance, AA; Presley M. Martin, AA; Deidre A. Pennell, CER; Samantha R. Smith, AA.
CHANDLER: Melissa A. Collard, AA; Madelyn C. Ellis, AA; Hanna V. Jenkins, CER; Brooke T. Johnson, AA; Travis R. Kees, AA; Austin J. Kissinger, AA; Kaitlyn E. Wariner, AA.
CHECOTAH, OK: Cody L. Gilroy, AA.
CORSICANA: Natasha L. Banks, CER.
CRANDALL: Andrew W. Berendzen, AA; Charles M. Carter, AA; Jessica R. Eastep, AA; Laurel M. Filbert, AA; Alyssa N. Fridley, AA; Lindsey L. Woodall, AA.
CROCKETT: Ashleigh M. Atkins, CER.
DALLAS: Sylvanus O. Anyanwu, AA; Chrystal L. Edwards, AA.
DENTON: Lauren F. Kaiser, AA.
EDGEWOOD: Sidney E. Cates, AA; Sherry S. Dye, AA; Douglas M. Reese, AA.
ELKHART: Meagan L. Cox, AA; Nicole J. Hannah, AA; Mason J. Huffines, AA; Tori A. Jennings, AA; Richard M. Rutledge, AA; Wyatt L. Stovall, AAS; Mary E. Tuttle, AA.
ENNIS: Julia L. McMullen, CER.
EUSTACE: Angela D. Grippe, AA; Brandon C. Hall, AA; Jonathon T. House, AA; James T. Kennedy, AA; Amy L. Morton, AA; Shana D. Reasor, AA; Autymn O. Ridgle, CER; Vanessa L. Soliz, CER; Chad A. Tindel, AA; Deanna M. York, AAS.
FARMERS BRANCH : Lawanda D. Shed, CER.
FLINT: Christopher Tidwell, AA.
FORNEY: Mary L. Bliven, AAS; Hunter B. Courtney, CER; Levon Douglas, CER; Cody A. Garcia, AAS; Mary J. Hickey, AA; Aaron L. Irons, AA; Taylor J. Lunger, AA; Trevor L. McCormack, AA; Mark J. Metzger, AA; Jared T. Mullins, AA; Alexa N. Thomas, CER; Ashley M. Wall, AA.
FRANKSTON: Megan E. Anderson, AAS; Amber R. Brown, AA; Aspen K. Darden, CER; Kaylee M. Erickson, AA; Britany M. Perry, CER; Laura L. Rogers, CER; Alyssa N. Smith, AA.
GARLAND: Chinedu C. Elegonye, AA; Shadavia D. Sneed, AAS.
GLENN HEIGHTS: Twon Johnson-Salmon, AA.
GRAPELAND: Ethan A. Elliott, AA; Kali M. Oliver, AA.
GRAPEVINE: Katlyn M. Starling, AA.
GREENVILLE: Emily N. Elliott, CER; Ashley N. Tarrant, CER.
GUN BARREL CITY: Marshall J. Burns, CER; Kara D. Ewing, AA; Collin J. Martian, AA; Paige S. Ramos, AA; Dana A. Wakefield, AA.
HEARTLAND: Alexis I. Bailey, AA; Jaime L. Carter, AA; Heather N. Good, AA.
HEATH: Julie E. Howard, CER.
HIDEAWAY: Clinton L. Gordon, CER.
HOUSTON: Oriyomi N. Cole, AA; Elizabet Vallesteros, AA.
JACKSONVILLE: Ellann D. Johnson, AA; Wensdy N. Maldanado, AA; Misti L. Moon, CER.
KATY: Taylor C. Johnson, AA.
KAUFMAN: Jairo Bermudez, AA; Erika Flores, AA; Samantha L. Goodwin, AA; Megan L. Gustine, CER; Cara I. Helpenstell, CER; Adam S. Hickey, CER; Jennifer L. Layne, CER; Christen N. Loyd, AA; Victor M. Mendoza, AA; Sarah E. Moore, AAS; Paula G. Norris, CER; Lauren R. Smith, AA; Benjamin J. Warden, AA; Diana Yanez, CER.
KEMP: Margaret H. Berry, AA; Deborah D. Floyd, AA; Jeffrey Goldman, AA; Haley R. Ward, AA; Codi C. Wilhite, CER.
KILGORE: Shawn M. Arent, AA.
LARUE: Shawanda R. Cofer, AAS; Shayla K. Mitchell, AA; Lauren M. Wyatt, AA.
LITTLE ELM: Brandon A. Floyd, AA.
LONGVIEW: Haley E. Boyett, AA.
MABANK: Jacqueline Alcantara, CER; Sydney J. Dandro, CER; Sean E. Dykes, AA; Holly E. Farmer, CER; Jordin R. Garrett, AA; Kellie U. Kelsay, AA; Cindy R. Loden, CER; Traci R. McPherson, CER; Mallory R. Petersen, CER; Sherry P. Richman, CER; Krista M. Tapp, CER; David A. Torres, AA; Stacy L. Welling, CER; Rasheem M. Wynn, CER.
MALAKOFF: Lesha A. Austin, AAS; Debra L. Brown, CER; Kendall N. Bruton, AA; Kamryn M. Dillard, AA; Josie L. Hammond, AAS; Lakishia P. Hart, CER; Evelia Soto, AA.
MANSFIELD: Edmond D. Sells, AA.
MESQUITE: Sekou Clark, AA; Damontes T. Dowell, AA; Jennifer Y. Norris, AA.
MONTGOMERY: Marissa L. McCorkle, AA.
MURCHISON: Sarah E. Furlong, AA; Keylan A. Hunter, AA; Mathew S. Skaggs, AA.
NACOGDOCHES: Britton L. Smallwood, AA.
NECHES: Morgan B. Brown, CER.
PALESTINE: Tatanisckha G. Angton, AA; Rachel L. Arceneaux, AA; Courtney E. Bell, AA; Angela P. Chapman, AA; Cateva D. Clewis, AAS; Phuong H. Do, AA; Fausto Gante, CER; Melissa J. Hernandez, AAS; Audrey K. Holmes, AA; Jessica R. Howard, AA; Cori F. Lanier, AA; Brandy N. Lovelady, AA; Elizabeth P. Manis, AA; Adam D. Murray, AA; Louis T. Perkins, AA; Sergio A. Pizarro, AA; Jennifer Ramirez, AA; Anadela P. Sanchez, AA; Bobby D. Sharp, AA; Lindsey R. Sifers, AA; Amanda N. Slayton, AA; Derek B. Thompson, AA; Brooke L. Thornton, CER; Sherri L. Tramble, AA; Jessica H. Walker, AAT; Meaghan L. Warren, AAS; Christin L. Williams, AA; Reginald C. Wilson, AA; Gabrielle Zamora, AA; Estella E. Zepeda, AA.
PASADENA: Cristian R. Benavidez, AA.
PLANO: Zachary R. White, AA.
QUINLAN: Michelle R. Dylla, AA; Diocelina Fox, AA; Keri A. Gordon, CER.
RED OAK: Danielle N. Aston, AA.
RICHARDSON: Michael R. Curtis, AA.
ROCKWALL: Dustin J. Groening, AA; May M. Solomon, CER.
ROUND ROCK: Daquan R. Patton, AA.
ROYSE CITY: Anita S. Olguin, CER.
SACSHE: Traci A. Hamilton, CER.
SAGINAW: Brianna E. Salas, AA.
SAN ANTONIO: Caden S. Novikoff, AA.
SCURRY: Luke L. Letsche, AA; Kaylie M. Sutton, AA.
TERRELL: James M. Bennett, AA; Latasha J. Brumsey, AA; Haley J. Bryant, AA; Maria I. Deanda, AA; Taylor D. Dodson, CER; Alexandra P. Gideo, CER; Andrea N. Gray, CER; Jan G. Hood, CER; Mallory S. Lane, AA; Yolanda Main, CER; Anna V. Martinez, AA; Gloria M. Martinez, AA; Tania S. Martinez, CER; Lamond K. Milton, CER; Destiny D. Owens, CER; Amandra R. Rodriquez, AA; Katherine Rodriquez, AA; Ryan R. Scott, CER; Kathryn S. Sylvester, AA; Elizabeth Tavera, CER; Kayla J. Taylor, AA; Cathleen R. Tijerina, CER; Summer S. Walker, AA; Rianna P. Weaver, CER; Kimberly A. Wilhite, AAS; Yamilex Zuniga, AA.
TOOL: Chelsea L. Henderson, CER.
TRINIDAD: Chance L. Holt, AA; Kimberly A. Sims, AAS.
TRINITY: Terrance D. Potts, AA.
TYLER: Annie M. Alexander, AAS; Amanda C. Crawford, CER.
WILLS POINT: Crystal L. Doty, AA; Christopher Goolsby, AA; Andrew S. Jacobs, AA; Julie Y. Marrow, CER; Kristina M. Marshall, AA; Kayla B. Milton, AA; Dulce M. Rangel, CER; Samantha G. Tolon, AA.
The post 279 graduate from TVCC appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Trinity Valley Junior College honored long-time employees during the annual board Christmas luncheon held Tuesday, December 20. Pictured L-R above are Ron Camp – 40 years; Sam Hurley, Dorothy Hinds and Merl Estep – 35 years; below are Vicki Dossett and Gail Bayless – 30 years; Linda White, Brian Spurling and Floyd Brigdon – 25 years.
The post TVCC honors employees with 25 or more year of service appeared first on Henderson County Now.
By Loretta Humble/Around the Town
On our way to the Master Gardeners Christmas party, where we were both ordained official Master Gardener Interns, Shelly told me she had seen the real Santa Claus that day. She had this sparkle in her eyes, and her words tumbled out like an excited kid.
She and Douglas have been helping with Nancy Jackson’s huge estate sale in Tool, and after the main days of the sale were past, there was still lots of good stuff left, so the two of them have kept it open for a while as they continued to sell to a steady stream of buyers.
Shelly told me that this big old guy came in, wandering around checking everything out, doing a little friendly haggling, but she was busy and didn’t pay him much attention. Finally she stopped long enough to look up and when she did, she couldn’t help staring at him…round belly, rosy cheeks, big white beard and all. He just looked her in the eye and in a commanding voice said, “That’s right. I’m Santa Claus.” He went on to tell her he’s pretty busy, even before Christmas Eve gets here, going around to all the Shriner Hospitals as well as showing up to other groups of children around here. He told her her his job had got so big he had to get a helicopter to get around everywhere he needed to go. Shelly told him he sure looked real to her. “I certainly hope so,” he replied. They talked a while, and he bought some stuff, and as he left he asked her if she would like a goodbye “Ho Ho Ho.” “I sure would.” she said.
He waved goodbye and let loose the deepest, mellowest, magical ho ho ho Shelly could imagine. She said it just rolled out.
When he was gone Shelly turned to Douglas, “ I think it was really him.” and Douglas replied, “I’m certain it was.”
Now I’m pretty sure down deep maybe both of them knew that THE Santa wasn’t in Tool, Texas last week, heading for the Learning Express in Malakoff the next day. But I think they chose to take that little gift of Christmas magic for all it was worth. And I guess it was worth a lot, because when she told me about it, just for a minute I was right there with them in a world where magic still happens.
Now getting back down to earth, I’ve got to tell you how proud Shelly and I are to become Master Gardener Interns. For the next year we will be doing a lot of volunteer work, such as helping with the vegetable garden at South Athens Elementary School, the Dream Garden at the Arboretum, work at the greenhouse at TVCC and a bunch of other things. There are nine of us new interns—six women and three men. We love these people who have become good friends and with whom we will still be working and playing this year. A bunch of really excellent, interesting people. I could fill up several columns telling you about them, and maybe I will later. Turns out more than half of us are from Malakoff and the lake area. In fact there is a whole nest of Master Gardeners on one street that I pass every time I go to town. Three generations of them. If they will let me, I’ll tell you about them one day soon.
I had another big treat last week. I went to see Athens High School’s wonderful production of “Into the Woods.” It was fantastically great. They went to Dallas or somewhere and rented fabulous costumes, so it was visually gorgeous, but the really amazing thing was the music. There had to be twenty or more kids in this, and this was a musical, so it was more singing than talking, and every one of those kids was great. I mean, they were way too good for high school kids. And of course, from this Granny’s perspective, Taegan Allen as Little Red Riding Hood was perfect and deserved an Oscar. If you can find it, I wish you would watch it, because then you will see how remarkable it is that a high school group could perform something of that quality. I wish they could do it again, so more people could see how good it was.
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. I intend to. Our whole family will brunch at Tina’s house, then a bunch of us will adjourn to Liz’s house where we will dine on Gumbo, some of which I am working on right now.
The post Around the Town: Meeting the real Santa Claus appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Congratulations to the Athens Pinnacle students who graduated from TVCC last night : Brian Lookabaugh, Mark Russell Ingram, Jetmira Ademaj, and Sierra Franklin. (Courtesy photo)
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Henderson County District Attorney R. Scott McKee reported the July Term, 2016, Grand Jury returned the following True Bills for the December 16, 2016 meeting. In addition, 7 cases are indicted under seal.
The post Henderson County Grand Jury Report – Dec. 21 appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Graveside services for Faye Woolverton, 80, of Larue are scheduled for 10 a.m., Saturday, December 24, 2016 at Liberty Cemetery in Bradford, Texas and will be officiated by Rev. Glenn Taylor. Arrangements were entrusted to Hannigan Smith Funeral Home of Athens.
Ms. Woolverton passed away on Thursday, December 23, 2016 in Longview, Texas.
Frankie Faye Harris Woolverton was born January 31, 1936 in Athens, Texas the daughter of John Franklin Harris and Inice Faye Bolt Harris. She was a Methodist and a member of the Carroll Springs Methodist Church. She worked most of her career as an extrusion technician at Argon Medical but retired from Chase Medical. She loved to read and do word search books. Faye was a loving mother, sister and Me-Maw who will be missed by all she knew and loved.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Coy Woolverton and a brother Johnie Frank Harris.
Faye is survived by her three children, Ricky Bryant Woolverton of Larue, Teresa Lorraine Woolverton of Larue, Emmett Wayne Woolverton and wife Tina of Ben Wheeler; brother Donald Ray Harris of Palestine; two grandchildren, Amy Hall, Kristi Reese; five great grandchildren, Damion Hall, Luke Motley, Matthew Hall, Payten Motley, Emily Motley and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
You may light a candle or write condolences to the family at: www.hannigansmith.com.
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Memorial services for Judy Kaye(Whitley) Fulton 57, Athens have been scheduled for 10:00 A.M. Saturday December 31, 2016 at Clearview Bible Church, 32651 FM 47, Canton, Texas 75103.
She was born April 26, 1959 in Perryton, Texas to the late James Wayne and Venetta Lynn Parkhill Whitley. She had been a resident of Athens for many years and had been a certified nursing assistant most of her life.
She is was preceded in death by her parents, brother; James “Lee” Whitley, sisters; Kathern Sirmans, Bertha Clark, son; Randy Rios, daughter; Jessica Rios.
Survivors include her husband, John Fulton, mother-in-law; Glenda Fulton, Children; Ricky Rios, Christi Rios, step-children; JP and Victor Fulton, brothers; Elvin Parkhill, Robert Whitley, Hansel Whitley, Jerral Whitley, sisters; Barbara Maislin, Rita Whitley, Sandra Whitley and 9 grandchildren.
If you would like to leave a message of condolence or light a memorial for the family you may do so at www.carroll-lehr.com.
The post Obituary: Judy Kaye (Whitley) Fulton appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Congratulations to the first baby born in Athens in 2017: Keiden Amahd Jenkins. The photo and the following is courtesy the Ask Dr. Fran Facebook page.
The 1st BABY OF 2017 IS HERE!!! Keiden Amahd Jenkins (8lb 4oz) was born at 4:02AM to Justine Jenkins. Keiden is the first delivery of 2017 at ETMC Athens. Mother and baby are both beautiful, healthy, and happy. Dr. Fran’s pretty happy
as well!
The post First baby of 2017 appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Funeral services for Kristi Surles-Wolfen, 50, of Arlington, formerly are scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at the First Baptist Church of Athens with Pastor Bud Surles officiating. Interment will follow at Athens Cemetery under the direction of Hannigan Smith Funeral Home.
Ms. Wolfen passed away on Sunday, January 1, 2017 in Arlington, Texas.
Kristi Lynn Surles-Wolfen was born January 25, 1966 at the Lockbourne Air Force Base in Ohio, the daughter of Philip Surles and Joyce Ann Redwine. Kristi worked many years with her dad at Champion Ent Inc and Athens Park Homes, LLC. in Athens and then became an Operations Clerk with Republic Services in Arlington. Kristi loved to cook and watch her favorite cooking shows on T.V. and was an avid reader. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and will be greatly missed.
She is survived by her fiancé Mark Morgan of Arlington; her father Phil Surles and wife Jean of Malakoff; her mother Joyce Redwine Martin of Keller; her two loving children, Brittany Wolfen-Price and husband Dustin of Trinidad, Kailey Wolfen of Georgetown; sister Lisa Suzanne Alderlink and husband Scott of North Richland Hills, Craig Marston Surles and wife Liz of Dallas and two grandchildren, Bryson Cleveland and Maddison Price.
Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at the Hannigan Smith Funeral Home in Athens.
In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be made in her memory to the: American Diabetes Association, 4100 Alpha Road, Suite #100, Dallas, Texas, 75244.
You may light a candle or write condolences to the family at www.hannigansmith.com
The post Obituary: Kristi Surles-Wolfen appeared first on Henderson County Now.
Text and photo from the Athens Independent School District Facebook page:
The Texas High School Coaches Association named Jacob Ickes to Second Team Academic All-State in football, and Noah Bush received Honorable Mention. Congratulations to you both! #gradesmatter
The post Congratulations to Jacob and Noah! appeared first on Henderson County Now.
as well!