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March 17, 2015 - Center Police Department TNT (Tactical Narcotics Team) executed a pre-dawn search warrant on March 17, 2015 at a residence located at 1202 Union Street in Center. The search warrant was issued as the result of a several month long investigation by the Narcotics Division of the Police Department.
Investigators located various types of illegal drugs at the residence including, cocaine, synthetic marijuana, and prescription pills. Four suspects were arrested as a result of the investigation.
All arrested individuals have been charged with at least one count of delivery of a controlled substance. There are further charges pending.
On February 17, 2015, the Center Police Department Tactical Narcotics Team (TNT) executed a search warrant at a residence at 917 Hicks Street in Center. Investigators arrested one individual, who has not yet been identified. During the search, Officers located evidence that drugs were regularly being sold at the location. There were several bottles which had been used to carry PCP, a highly addictive and very dangerous drug.
These search warrants are the result of weeks of investigation by the Narcotics Division of the Center Police Department. Investigator Chris Knowlton stated that continued partnership with the community is essential in the fight against drugs to contact the Police Department Narcotics Division, or any Officer of the department directly.
Center Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information. Anyone who has information regarding this crime should call Center Crime Stoppers at 936-598-SAFE (7233) or submit a tip online at www.centercrimestoppers.com. Remember you don't have to give your name. All calls and cash rewards are completely anonymous. Rewards will only be paid on tips submitted through the Center Crime Stoppers system.
March 9, 2015 - (Show Backdrop Photos, Show Photos, Sale Photos) A slightly rearranged Shelby County Livestock Show and Sale paid off for exhibitors as a large crowd gathered for the sale held at the John D Windham Civic Center Saturday night, March 7th which brought in an additional six thousand dollars over last year in money raised for FFA and 4-H students for a total of $66,950 this year.
The 10th Annual Shelby County 4-H & FFA Livestock Show was held March 6, 2015 at the Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo Arena. Weigh in of market animals started at 7:30 and lasted until 9:00. The show started at 10:00 with Rabbits being judged by Mrs. Sherry Poindexter of San Augustine, TX. Dr. Billy Zanolini, who is a Texas A&M 4-H Livestock Specialist judged the swine, goats, lambs, and cattle. Dr. Zanolini was very informative and interactive with the children and animals. There were over 103 exhibitors at this year’s show.
The following is the results of the show and sale:
Keaton Bush of Timpson FFA showed the Grand Champion Steer Friday at the 10th annual Shelby County 4-H and FFA Livestock Show held at the Shelby County Expo Center. Following the show, Keaton’s steer sold at the livestock sale for $4,500. Farmer’s State Bank bought the 1101 pound steer.
Reserve Champion steer honors went to Ethan Wood of Joaquin FFA. Ethan’s steer was purchased by the Oilfield Buyer’s Group consisting of (Corrected group members) Junior Kent, Ronnie Herrington, IPS Coil Tubing, ETS/QES Motors, Texas State Bank, Adams Ford, PTS, Steve Kent, Delta Fuel, Moncla Well Service, Casey Wood Consulting/E-Z Simmental for $13,000.
The Grand Champion Market Swine was shown by Madison McMillan of Center FFA. Shelby Savings Bank bought the champion hog for $1,800.
Lance Holloway of Center 4-H showed the Reserve Champion Market Swine. The hog was sold to Borders Poultry and Heritage Land Bank for $1,700.
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 (left) Madison McMillan's Grand Champion swine was purchased by Shelby Savings Bank. |
 (left) Wesley Wages' Grand Champion goat was purchased by Shelby Savings Bank. |
 (left) Kayleigh Scroggins' Grand Champion lamb was purchased by Deep East Texas Electric Cooperative. |
In the Market Goat Division, Wesley Wages of Center 4-H showed the Grand Champion. Wesley’s goat was purchased for $1,750 by Shelby Saving Bank.
The Reserve Grand Champion Market Goat was shown by Ally Kimbro of Timpson FFA. Ally’s goat was purchased for $1,250 by Diamond H.
Kayleigh Scroggins of Timpson FFA showed the Grand Champion Market Lamb in Saturday’s Show. Deep East Texas Electric Cooperative purchased Kayleigh’s lamb for $1,750.
Reserve Champion honors in the Market Lamb Division went to Josie Green of Joaquin FFA. Shelby County Farm Bureau was the winning bidders for $1,600.
The Grand Champion Market Rabbit was shown by Trevor Hightower of Center 4-H. Trevor will receive premium money in the amount of $400. Dalton Alexander of Center FFA showed the Reserve Grand Champion pen of market rabbits. He will receive $350 in premium money.
The livestock’s premium money totaled just over $66,950 for local 4-H and FFA members according to Jacob Spivey, Show Chairman.
The Larry Hagler Memorial Scholarship will be given to the Highest Placing Seniors.
Highest Placing Senior in the Market Steer Division is Keaton Bush. Keaton will receive a $500 Scholarship.
Highest Placing Senior in the Market lamb Division is Josie Green. Josie will receive a $500 Scholarship.
The steer shown by Clarissa Menefee was the "highest gaining" steer of the show. Clarissa will receive $150.
The highest placing county bred steer was shown by Megan Dunn. Megan was presented with $1,000 from Farmers State Bank. The 2nd highest placing county bred steer was shown by Christopher Dunn. Christopher will receive $250 by Shelby County Farm Bureau. The 3rd highest placing county bred steer was shown by Blake Griffin. Blake will receive $150 by Shelby County Farm Bureau.
The highest placing county bred heifer was shown by Ally Kimbro. Ally will receive $750 from Link Charolais and Dr. Derek Grant and 2nd place county bred heifer was shown by April Ramsey. April will receive $250 from Link Charolais & Dr. Derek Grant.
In the beef division, Christopher Dunn of Center 4-H was presented the Senior Beef Showmanship buckle by Joaquin FFA. Shelbyville FFA presented Abi Hooper of Timpson FFA with the Junior Beef Showmanship Champion.
Madison McMillan of Center FFA was named Champion Senior Swine Showman. The trophy buckle was presented by Shelby County Farm Bureau. Center FFA presented the Junior Champion Swine Showman to Seth Shamblin of Center 4-H.
In the goat division, Triston Smith of Timpson FFA was named Champion Senior Showman and was presented a buckle by Timpson FFA. April Ramsey of Timpson FFA was named Champion Junior Showman and her buckle was presented by Tenaha FFA.
Farm Bureau presented Hajeo Caporali of Center FFA with the Champion Senior Lamb Showmanship buckle. Jairo Blanco of Center FFA received the Champion Junior Lamb Showmanship buckle from Shelby County 4-H.
Other placings in Saturday's Show were:
Grand Champion & Reserve Champion Breeding Rabbits- Buck:
Kennedy Bush, Center 4-H - Grand Champion
Ariel Patterson, Tenaha FFA - Reserve Grand Champion
Grand Champion Breeding Rabbits- Doe:
Abbie Muckelroy, Center FFA - Grand Champion
Holly Linebarger, Tenaha FFA - Reserve Grand Champion
Market Rabbits:
Trevor Hightower, Center 4-H - Grand Champion Rabbit
Dalton Alexander, Center FFA - Reserve Grand Champion Rabbit
Abbie Muckelroy, Center FFA - 3rd Place
Ariel Patterson, Tenaha FFA - 4th Place
Michelle Gomez, Center 4-H - 5th Place
Dominque Bauer, Center FFA - 6th Place
Holly Linebarger, Tenaha FFA - 7th Place
Market Swine Light Weight:
Madison McMillan, Center FFA - First
Taylor Gutermuth, Center 4-H - Second
Tatum Mettauer, Center 4-H - Third
Whitley Cantrell, Timpson FFA - Fourth
Alaina Haley, Shelbyville 4-H - Fifth
Kennedy Bush, Center 4-H - Sixth
Market Swine Middle Weight:
Lance Holloway, Center 4-H - First
Hunter McSwain, Center 4-H - Second
Hope Milford, Timpson FFA - Third
Colton Gutermuth, Center 4-H - Fourth
Jaden Johnson, Timpson FFA - Fifth
Garrett Mettauer, Center 4-H - Sixth
Market Swine Heavy Weight:
Seth Shamblin, Center 4-H - First
Lila Smith, Joaquin FFA - Second
Lauren Neal, Joaquin FFA - Third
Logan Holloway, Center 4-H - Fourth
Holly Hughes, Timpson FFA - Fifth
Justin Blanco, Joaquin FFA - Sixth
Alli Jo Baldwin, Joaquin FFA - Seventh
James Marshall, Timpson FFA - Eighth
Market Swine, Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion and Sale Order:
- Madison McMillan, Center FFA purchased by Shelby Savings Bank for $1,800
- Lance Holloway, Center 4-H purchased by Borders Poultry and Heritage Land Bank for $1,700
- Taylor Gutermuth, Center 4-H purchased by Shelby Savings Bank for $1,600
- Seth Shamblin, Center 4-H purchased by Borders Poultry Supply for $1,500
- Hunter McSwain, Center 4-H purchased by XTO for $1,500
- Lila Smith, Joaquin FFA purchased by Farmers State Bank for $1,300
- Hope Milford, Timpson FFA purchased by Triple J Feed and Henry Howard Services for $2,100
- Colton Gutermuth, Center 4-H purchased by Mettauer Law Firm for $1,600
Breeding Goats - Class 1
Josie Green, Joaquin FFA - First
Josie Green, Joaquin FFA - Second
Grand Champion & Reserve Champion Breeding Does:
Josie Green, Joaquin FFA - Grand Champion
Josie Green, Joaquin FFA - Reserve Champion
Market Goats Light Weight:
Wesley Wages, Center 4-H - First
Triston Smith, Timpson FFA - Second
Emmy Sigler, Timpson FFA - Third
Gracie Martinson, Tenaha FFA - Fourth
Shawna Hall, Tenaha FFA - Fifth
Tristen Denton, Tenaha FFA - Sixth
Market Goats Heavy Weights:
Ally Kimbro, Timpson FFA - First
Baylor Kimbro, Timpson FFA - Second
April Ramsey, Timpson FFA - Third
Carsen Vickers, Joaquin 4-H - Fourth
Collin Vickers, Joaquin 4-H - Fifth
Market Goats - Grand Champion & Reserve Grand Champion Sale Order:
- Wesley Wages, Center 4-H purchased by Shelby Savings Bank for $1,750
- Ally Kimbro, Timpson FFA purchased by Diamond H for $1,250
- Baylor Kimbro, Timpson FFA purchased by Smith Sawmill Services for $1,300
- April Ramsey, Timpson FFA purchased by Timberlake Farms for $1,200
- Triston Smith, Timpson FFA purchased by Mackey Cattle Company for $1,400
- Carsen Vickers, Joaquin 4-H purchased by Farm Bureau for $1,400
- Emmy Sigler, Timpson FFA purchased by Kay Ranch, Center Tire Company, Timpson & Joaquin Quick Stop, and First Financial for $1,300
- Collin Vickers, Joaquin 4-H purchased by Vickers Farms for $1,800
Breeding Ewe Grand Champion:
Kayleigh Scroggins, Timpson FFA
Sheldon Scroggins, Timpson FFA
Market Lambs - Light Weights:
Josie Green, Joaquin FFA - First
Kallie Solomon, Timpson FFA - Second
Chandler Burgay, Timpson FFA - Third
Market Lambs - Middle Weights:
Hajeo Caporali, Center FFA - First
Jairo Blanco, Joaquin FFA - Second
Caden Solomon, Timpson FFA - Third
Market Lambs - Heavy Weight
Kayleigh Scroggins, Timpson FFA - First
Hannah Jamison, Shelbyville 4-H - Second
Sheldon Scroggins, Timpson FFA - Third
Market Lambs Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion and Sale Order:
- Kayleigh Scroggins, Timpson FFA, purchased by Deep East Texas Electric Co-op for $1,750
- Josie Green, Joaquin FFA purchased by Farm Bureau for $1,600
- Hajeo Caporali, Center FFA purchased by XTO for $1,200
- Jairo Blanco, Timpson FFA purchased by AZURE Midstream for $1,500
- Caden Solomon, Timpson FFA purchased by Mackey Cattle Company for $1,200
- Hannah Jamison, Shelbyville 4-H purchased by Triple J Feed and Henry Howard Services. for $2,200
- Sheldon Scroggins, Timpson FFA purchased by: Dance Furniture, Hopkins Wrecker, Farmers Insurance, Monco Motor Co., Tammy Steptoe Realty, Ross Lumber, Worsham Grocery, Agriculture this Morning, Greer Charolais, Dean’s Hardware, East Texas Poultry Supply, Ace Hardware of East Texas, Shoop Insurance, Shoop Financial, Hardy’s Machine, Morrison Insurance, Town & Country Real Estate for $1,200
- Kallie Solomon, Timpson FFA purchased by Cobb Hatchery for $1,400
Breeding Beef Show Results are as follows:
American/American Cross Heifer: Class 1
Josie Green, Joaquin FFA - First
American/American Cross Heifer: Class 2
Baylor Kimbro, Timpson FFA - First
Abi Hooper, Timpson FFA - Second
Baylor Kimbro, Timpson FFA - Third
American/American Cross Heifer: Class 3
Ally Kimbro, Timpson FFA - First
American/American Cross Heifer: Class 4
Blake Cummings, Joaquin FFA - First
Justin Hooper, Timpson FFA - Second
American/American Cross Heifer: Class 5
Cralon Hughes, Joaquin FFA-First
American/American Cross Heifer: Class 6
Keaton Bush, Timpson FFA - First
Ally Kimbro, Timpson FFA - Second
Division Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion American/American Cross Heifer
Baylor Kimbro, Timpson FFA - Grand Champion Division
Ally Kimbro, Timpson FFA - Reserve Grand Champion Division
English and English Cross Heifer: Class 1
Trey Harvey, Joaquin FFA - First
English and English Cross Heifer: Class 2
Abi Hooper, Joaquin FFA - Second
English and English Cross Heifer: Class 3
Trey Harvey, Joaquin FFA - First
Division Grand Champion and Reserve Champion English and English Cross Heifers:
Abi Hooper, Joaquin FFA - Grand Champion Division
Trey Harvey, Joaquin FFA - Reserve Grand Champion Division
Exotic and Exotic Cross Heifers: Class 1
Abi Hooper, Joaquin FFA - First
Exotic and Exotic Cross Heifers: Class 2
Ethan Wood, Joaquin FFA - First
Lauren Neal, Joaquin FFA - Second
Exotic and Exotic Cross Heifers: Class 3
Abi Hooper, Joaquin FFA - First
April Ramsey, Timpson FFA - Second
Exotic and Exotic Cross Heifers: Class 4
Ethan Wood, Joaquin FFA - First
Exotic and Exotic Cross Heifers: Class 5
April Ramsey, Timpson FFA - First
Division Grand Champion and Reserve Champion Exotic and Exotic Cross Heifers:
Ethan Wood, Joaquin FFA - Division Grand Champion
Ethan Wood, Joaquin FFA - Reserve Grand Champion
Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Heifers of Show:
Ethan Wood, Joaquin FFA - Champion;
Abi Hooper, Joaquin FFA - Reserve Grand Champion
Steer Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion and Sale Order:
- Keaton Bush, Timpson FFA purchased by Farmer’s State Bank for $4,500
- Ethan Wood, Joaquin FFA purchased by Oilfield Buyers Group Junior Kent, Ronnie Herrington, IPS Coil Tubing, ETS/QES Motors, Texas State Bank, Adams Ford, PTS, Steve Kent, Delta Fuel, Moncla Well Service, Casey Wood Consulting/E-Z Simmental for $13,000
- Megan Dunn, Center 4-H purchased by: Shelby Vet, General Shelters, 96 Equipment, Toledo Finance, Harkness Litter Service, Toledo Automotive Supply, Judge Charles Mitchell, and Few Ready Mix for $1,300
- Clarissa Menefee, Center 4-H purchased by Klein Brothers Rodeo, Klein Cattle Co., Ulta Inc., K&L Contractors, and JML Contractors for $1,600
- Christopher Dunn, Center 4-H purchased by Borders Poultry Supply for $1,400
- Blake Griffin, Center 4-H purchased by: Hunter Buildings, Keith Oswalt Logging, McAdams Propane, and Fish & Still for $1,600
- Trey Harvey, Joaquin FFA purchased by Chozen Group which consisted of Texas State Bank, Querbes & Nelson, Adams Ford, Business 1st, Cole, Evans & Peterson, Precision Directional Drilling and Youngblood Oil & Products for $7,000
We would also like to thank the following Contributors:
2015 Contributors: Borders Poultry Supply, Farmers State Bank, Shelby Savings Bank, XTO, Shelby County Farm Bureau, Deep East Texas Electric Coop, Texas State Bank, Mettauer Law Firm, Mackey Cattle Company, Timberlake Farms, AZURE Midstream, Cobb Vantress, Hunter Buildings, Kay Ranch (Buddy & Paula Kay), Keith Oswalt Logging, Klein Cattle Company, JTK Management, JML Management, K&L Management, Klein Brothers Rodeo, McAdams Propane, Fish & Still, Shelby Vets, Business First, Ward Animal Hospital, General Shelters, Texas Bank & Trust, Heritage Land Bank, SGM Trucking, Boles Feed, JC McSwain Logging, Woodman of the World, Sabine State Bank, Roscoe McSwain Logging, Center Livestock Auction, Link Charolais, Center Tire Co., R&D Distributing, Adams Ford, Highway 96 Equipment, Inc., Center Glass, Dr. Derek Grant, DVM, Toledo Finance, Toledo Automotive Supply, Judge Charles Mitchell, Harkness Litter Service, Few Ready Mix, Odessa Link, Light and Champion, Center FFA, Joaquin FFA, Shelbyville FFA, Tenaha FFA, Dairy Queen, Chris Mayfield State Farm, Payne’s Community News, Dr. Danny Paul Windham, Dr. Dixon Golden, Ihlo Sales, Steel Building Supply, Dance Furniture, Farmers Insurance, Monco Motor Co., Tammy Steptoe Realty, JBA Financial Services, Inc., Ross Lumber, Worsham Grocery, Hudson Auto Parts, Agriculture This Morning, McDonald & Sons Hardware, Greer Charolais, Dean’s Hardware, Shoop Insurance, Shoop Financial/Cash Now, Hardy’s Machine Shop & Welding, Morrison Insurance Agency, Town & Country Real Estate, Hopkins Wrecker Service, Bounds Insurance, Mack O’Rear Real Estate, Platinum Tire, Hughes Florist, Joaquin/Timpson Quick Stop, Judge Allison Harbison, Roy Sutphen, Matthew Richardson, Clint Richardson, Kurt Richardson, KLL Directional, Larry Smith
Ag Ed Day Sponsors: J.C. McSwain Logging Contractors, Roscoe McSwain Logging, Raymond Construction, LLP, Center Tire Company Inc., Center Livestock Auction Company, R&D Distributing, LTD, Boles Feed Company, Inc., Woodmen of the World, SGM Trucking (Stacy McSwain), Texas Bank & Trust, Sabine Bank and Trust, Farmers State Bank, and Shelby Savings Bank.
Livestock Show and Sale: The following individuals and businesses have graciously donated time, effort and materials to the success of our Livestock show and sale. We would like to take this time to personally thank them for their continue support of the youth of Shelby County. They are James Greer, Tyson Foods, Pete Lowe, Shelby County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, and Shelby County Sheriff Posse.
March 16, 2015 - Sheriff Willis Blackwell reports that on March 12, 2015 a surprise inspection of the Shelby County Jail was preformed by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards.
Sheriff Blackwell is happy to report that the Shelby County Jail was compliant and there were no deficiencies noted. Sheriff Blackwell gives credit to Jail Administrator William Cox and all the hard working jailers that make this possible.
March 16, 2015 - Center Police Officers and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) State Troopers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Nacogdoches Highway (State Highway 7 West) Monday March 16, 2015 in front of Watlington Street.
When the officers arrived, one vehicle was blocking the outside eastbound traffic lane and the other was beside it off the roadway. ACE EMS was on scene and was providing medical care to the driver of the vehicle in the roadway.
According to Center Police Sgt. Duane Gordon and Center Police Officer Bobby Walker, a maroon Hyundai Elantra driven by Jacquelyn Elmore, 30, of Center with three minor male passengers age one, eight and 10 was traveling east on State Highway West in foggy weather conditions.
Elmore stopped for a school bus, which was traveling on the other side of the highway, and when she did a grey Dodge Charger driven by Kimberly Long, 41, of Center was traveling in the same lane as Elmore and struck the Elantra from behind, causing damage to both vehicles.
ACE EMS transported Elmore from the scene with minor injuries and her children were picked up from the scene by family members. Long was not reported to have received any injury and was issued a citation for failure to control speed.
Texas DPS State Troopers Dustin Ramos and Anthony Lacount assisted at the scene with traffic control.
March 14, 2015 - State Highway 7 East in the James Community was the scene of an early morning 18-wheeler rollover on Friday, March 13, 2015.
The Texas Department of Public Safety, ACE EMS, and later the Center Fire Department, were dispatched to the scene as Pinnergy LTD. representatives worked to clear the crash scene as the trailer of the 18-wheeler was loaded with frac mud and it had to be moved to another tanker before it could be righted.
According to Texas Department of Public Safety State Trooper Jade Lavergne, at 2:55am in the James Community near the RV Park a white 2015 Mack truck-tractor and trailer combination was driven by Marcus Danyell Robinson, 28.
Robinson was traveling west when he left the roadway to the right due weather conditions when he attempted correct back to the left, with the trailer being heavy it rolled to its right and rested on its top. He was seen by ACE EMS and refused treatment.
When mist and fog became more dense across the roadway, the Center Fire Department was dispatched to the scene at 5:33am to help with traffic control. The frac mud was pumped from the wrecked 18-wheeler to another tanker which came from Mansfield.
No injury was reported as a result of the crash and Robinson was cited for unsafe speed.
March 14, 2015 - Wet road conditions have plagued drivers all week causing a lot of slipping and sliding and contributed to a crash on State Highway 7 Friday, March 13, 2015.
According to Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Dustin Ramos, at 11:04am a Dodge Avenger driven by Jamica Bennett, age 24 of Nacogdoches, was eastbound on SH 7 and failed to drive in a single lane crashing approximately five miles west of Center. The driver lost control of the car which left the roadway, spun to the right and struck a tree with its back distributed and the left center of the vehicle.
Soon after the crash, several good Samaritans stopped at the crash scene and assisted Bennett until emergency medical services could arrive. The driver was transported by ACE EMS to Nacogdoches Medical Center - Center Emergency Department with minor cuts and scraps and possible unknown injuries. Bennett was cited for failure to drive in a single lane.
March 14, 2015 - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department and ACE EMS responded to a single-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 84 one mile from FM 699 on Thursday, March 12, 2015.
During the rainy conditions emergency personnel contended with a large number of traveling vehicles as they worked to handle the crash scene.
According to Texas DPS State Trooper Jade Lavergne, at 3pm a red 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier driven by Amie Trahan, 38, of Arp was traveling east to Logansport during heavy rain when the Cavalier traveled over standing water which caused the vehicle to hydroplane.
The Cavalier crossed the westbound traffic lane before leaving the roadway to the left and into a ditch where the front distributive struck the side of the ditch, flipping the car onto its roof coming to rest facing the roadway. Trahan was able to escape the Cavalier by climbing out the back window.
ACE EMS personnel examined Trahan at the scene and she refused any further treatment. She was issued a citation for unsafe speed.
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March 9, 2015 - The Commissioners made their annual approval of money disbursement from the Child Safety Fee Fund to local child advocacy groups including the Shelby County Children's Advocacy Center (SCCAC), and the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Deep East Texas. The total fees for the year are estimated to be $42,000.
Municipalities will receive $4,153.64 to distribute and the county retains $12,971.85. The county's portion to distribute will be $11,259.30. Allison Harbison, County Judge, explained how the process has worked in the past, "We've given 65% to the [Shelby County Children's] Advocacy Center and then 35% to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and if we do that this time, it would give the Advocacy Center [$7,318.55] and CASA, it would give them $3,940.76."
Roscoe McSwain, Commissioner Precinct 1, commented that is the percentage which has been done in the past and he preferred to see it stay that way. A motion was carried to keep the same percentage and to distribute the available $11,259.30.
TxDOT representatives Ana Mijares, District Design Engineer, and Olga Flores spoke with the commissioners about the closure of FM 415 for repair of the Bear Bayou Bridge (Project Details). Mijares explained the project would take around four months for completion. She stated that there are some possible difficulties in dealing with Deep East Texas Electric Coop (DETEC) as TxDOT does not currently have a good relationship with DETEC and it would.
"We looked at going to the east with a temporary easement, and the issues we are running into that is that [DETEC] is on both sides of the road so even if we decided to go to the west, [DETEC] would have to relocate and they are on private easement so they would ask for relocation cost, which the county would have to participate," said Mijares. "So the county would have to participate in the relocation cost of [DETEC] plus the easement cost, it would be a percentage of what that cost would be."
A detour is what TxDOT is suggesting at this time, which according to Mijares would be easiest to do and would be the least expensive option. The projected detour would travel County Road 4123 for local traffic and Mijares explained the state can establish a detour route on state roadways only; however, not county roads and that is where the commissioners help is needed.
"What we are proposing now, is to build the proposed bridge on existing site and detour the traffic for about four months, it might be a little longer, depending on how long it takes the contractor. We wouldn't close the road until the beams are fabricated so that the road's not closed and it doesn't look like they aren't doing any work."
The state's portion of the detour would take in FM 138, FM 1645 and State Highway 87 back to FM 415 and would be 21 miles in length. If the county is to adopt their portion of the detour on County Road 4123, it would be a three mile detour from the north side of the bridge to the FM 138 side of the bridge. The current distance from the bridge without a detour is 1 1/4 miles.
A motion was carried to table the item so Bradley Allen, Commissioner Precinct 4, can look at the roadway which is being considered.
Three items on the agenda pertained to the office of Mike Crouch, Justice of the Peace Precinct 5, and all three of them were tabled until the next meeting. The first was in regards to a contract for lease agreement on the space currently being used by the Justice of the Peace. Judge Harbison and Gary Rholes, County Attorney, reviewed the lease and agreed the lease is not good for the county and would have to be reworked. The commissioners considered the possibility of establishing a building for the Justice of the peace office at the Precinct 5 Commissioner yard. The possibility of using City of Timpson property was also discussed as the city offered to make it available for free.
Utilities in the amount of $1,000 for the current space being used by Crouch were paid for out of his own pocket as an established method of payment was not yet made by the county.
The third item relating to Crouch's office was a digital radio as Crouch stated Constable Stanley Burgay suggest he acquire one as it would be useful to have. After discussion over the radio, it was suggested Crouch contact the Sheriff about the use of a radio.
A contribution of $6,000 to the Shelby Soil and Water Conservation District was approved by the commissioners. Judge Harbison explained to the commissioners the money is already budgeted. Janet Ritter was at the meeting on behalf of the District to address the commissioners.
"We do have six water shed lakes in this county, all of which are primarily in the Timpson area. Part of that $6,000 we do take and try and apply at least $1,000 per dam each year to some of the maintenance. Right now we're in the process of scheduling our mowers," said Ritter.
Ritter stated there is one dam which a request of the commissioners may be made next year to help with some erosion problems with one particular water shed.
Agenda items receiving approval include: 1 Minutes of the February 9th Regular Meeting and the February 23rd Special Meeting of the Shelby County Commissioners’ Court. 2 Officers’ Reports. Commissioners heard financial report from Anne Blackwell, County Treasurer. 3 Pay monthly expenses. 4 Bid on 2004 Suzuki for $55 from Jimmy Wagstaff. 5 Bid on 2003 Ford Escape for $400 from Joe Shofner. 6 Bid on 1998 Ford Expedition for $1,100 from Kevin Foster. 7 Allow Bryan Gray, Constable Precinct 4, to seek a buyer for remaining vehicles to have them hauled off and then to haul them off if there is no buyer. 8 Authorize the utilities for Constable and Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4 to be split between their budgets. 9 Distribution of the Child Safety Fee Fund. 10 Contribute $6,000 to the Shelby Soil and Water Conservation District. 11 Adopt the Proclamation recognizing National Service Recognition Day. 12 Purchase of Right of Way in Precinct 1 from Hancock Forest Management for TxDOT bridge project. Motion approved to purchase the land for $2,500 and to pay the outside legal fees. 13 Adjournment at 10:36am. Agenda items tabled during the meeting include: 1 Lease Agreement and/or office space for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5. 2 Payment of utilities for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5. 3 Purchase of a radio for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5. 4 Closing of FM 415 at Bear Bayou for approximately four months for new bridge construction
March 12, 2015 - The lives of three men lost while on duty in a helicopter crash in 2005 were honored at a memorial ceremony held at Boles Field in Sabine National Forest on Tuesday, March 10, 2015 to mark the 10th anniversary of the tragedy.
Charles L. Edgar, fire management officer on the Sabine National Forest; John Greeno, Bald Mountain helicopter manager with the Mi-Wok Ranger District on the Stanislaus National Forest in California, and Jose Victor Gonzales, a pilot with Brainerd Helicopter Service in Minnesota; made up the crew of a Bell 206 BIII helicopter which was participating in a United States Forest Service prescribed fire mission.
Just near Shelbyville was the area of the burn within heavily wooded terrain. During the mission over the trees at 1:54pm a distress call of, "Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, we are going down," was received by ground personnel indicating the helicopter was going down. All three men perished as a result of the incident.
Family members, co-workers and friends gathered at the Boles Field Pavillion on March 10, 2015 at 2pm to remember the men involved in the incident. Felix Holmes, a member of the U.S. Forest Service, was the master of ceremonies and he introduced different speakers as they took to the podium.
"Almost exactly 10 years ago about this time of day is when the accident occurred, so I'm proud to stand here and honor Charles [Edgar], [Jose] Gonzalez and Mr. [John] Greeno and thank them for the service they done, and I thank everyone for coming," said Holmes.
Eddie Taylor, Forest Supervisor Kisatchie National Forest, was the Forest District Ranger at the time of the incident and he shared some of what happened on that day, "When I heard the helicopter distress call I was standing next to Felix Holmes, District Dozer Operator, the district folks immediately went into action. What we found changed our lives forever."
Shelbyville Volunteer Firemen were some of the first on scene to help those who were involved in the crash and Taylor elaborated on their involvement, "We lost three great men, two on impact, one shortly thereafter. We had great support from the local volunteer fire department, such as Lewis Harbison and Britt Harbison trying to save the one survivor, Charles. We were not successful, although medevac was dispatched immediately. The entire event, the weekend, the funerals all seem like a large nightmare."
Adam Edgar, son to Charles Edgar, shared how his father considered so many of his co-workers to be family, "A couple of things that have struck me is the care and the concern of his forest service family, how I've heard a lot of y'all tell me personally that he would bring me up in conversation a lot when I was younger. He would talk about me, he would always tell me how proud he was of me, but I want y'all to know that when he was with me and my family, you as Forest Service personnel are the ones he talked about. He always considered y'all family and always spoke very highly of every one of you."
Edgar stated that his father loved what he did and made him aware of the dangers involved in his job, "He most definitely told me that you don't know how long you're here and he basically prepped me and told me that he did a dangerous job and he understood the risks, but it was something he loved to do."
Raymond Edgar, brother of Charles Edgar, was emotional as he spoke of the celebration of the men involved in the crash as well as his brother and his love for his job.
"Hopefully today can be about saving the lives of these men, because there's a lot to celebrate," stated Edgar as he fought back tears. "I'm the older brother, Charles' older brother, and Charles just grew up out in the woods like most of us country kids did in East Texas. He developed a love for music early on and that was a lifelong passion, a lifelong vocation and he loved the Forest Service, he loved the woods."
Marsha Cooper, United States Forest Service Fire Prevention Officer, worked side-by-side with Charles for years and was available for comment about the event, "The families said it brought them a lot of closure that day, I thought some of the things Adam said were really touching. 10 years ago it was one of the hardest days I've had to go through."
March 9, 2015 - Presiding Judge Charles Mitchell granted a Protective Order for applicant, Florentina Gonzalez against her spouse, Marcos Aguilar, on Friday, March 6, 2015 after Court used online translator service for Cause#15CV33014, Florentina Gonzalez and Marcos Aguilar.
During the proceedings, neither Gonzalez or Aguilar spoke fluent English. In order for the Court to communicate with both parties, Karen Warr, Administrative Assistant to the Shelby County District Court, setup an online translator to assist with communication between the Court and both parties. Judge Mitchell swore in the translator who then through visual/audio conference on a laptop provided translation for the Court.
Gary Rholes, attorney for Gonzales had her take the stand and tell by way of the online translator what occurred on Monday, January 5, 2015 the day her husband allegedly stabbed her. She also spoke briefly about events from the day before.
Following her statement, Aguilar who was present without an attorney and represented himself was given the opportunity to tell his side of the events which occurred on January 4th and 5th. He disputed some of the details given by Gonzales; however, when asked by Rholes if he stabbed Gonzales, he replied, " Sí ".
Following hearing of evidence, the Court approved the Protective Order having found that all prerequisites of the law had been satisfied and that the Court had jurisdiction over the parties and subject matter of the case. The order prohibits Aguilar from committing family violence, as defined in section 71.004 of the Texas Family Code, he must not go near or within 500 feet of Gonzalez, as well as additional guidelines laid out in the order. The Protective Order shall remain in full force and effect until March 6, 2016.
The case against Aguilar has not yet been presented to a grand jury for indictment. He was taken into custody the same day as the stabbing incident and booked into the Shelby County Jail on a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and a bond was set at $100,000 by JP 1 Maxie Eaves. As of March 6th, Aguilar has not made bond.
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