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Around Town
May 1, 2024 - VFW Post 8904 and Auxiliary members held a Loyalty Day ceremony Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in front of the Shelby County Veterans Memorial.
Larry Hume, Post Quartermaster, opened the program and Post member Mary Roberts offered the opening prayer.
Hume then shared the following, “Some of the holidays we celebrate great Americans, while others recognize great moments in our history. But today is a day called ‘Loyalty Day’ it celebrates everything, from the moment we delivered our Declaration of Independence to the British, to the moment we gathered here this morning.
“Loyalty Day is a celebration of America and everything our country stands for. Loyalty Day asks us to pause for a moment and look back at where we’ve been, and ahead to where we want our nation to go.
“It was originally observed as “Americanization Day” in 1921 and enacted into public law by congress in 1958. Loyalty Day celebrates the legacy of freedom and the shared ideals that bind our great nation together. While initially established to counterbalance the May 1 celebrations of the communist party in the United States, this day has endured as a permanent fixture on our calendar.
“Even as the communist threat has greatly diminished over the years but perhaps is being revitalized, Loyalty Day remains a day worth recognizing, and we can’t think of a group we would rather spend Loyalty Day with than those of you that are here today.
“Today, we must remind others and ourselves that there is no substitute for loyalty, and we must pledge to maintain a free society in which loyalty is respected and encouraged.
“Loyalty Day is a day set aside for the reaffirmation of Loyalty to the United States and for the recognition of the heritage of American freedoms.”
The Pledge of Allegiance was then recited and Sr. Vice Commander Mike Wulf placed the Loyalty Day wreath upon the Shelby County Veterans Memorial.
“Today is not an official holiday, but rather an observance that many are unaware of and would have gone unnoticed in Shelby County, Texas if it were not for those of you gathered here today,” said Hume.
Leigh Porterfield, Center Mayor pro-tem, sang “God Bless America” following the wreath laying.
May 1, 2024 - The University of Texas at Tyler will recognize spring 2024 degree candidates during Spring 2024 Commencement May 3-4 in the UT Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center.
Ceremony schedule:
- Friday, May 3, 2024
9 am CST – School of Nursing
1 pm CST - College of Engineering; School of Health Professions
5 pm CST – College of Education and Psychology; School of Medicine - Saturday, May 4, 2024
9 am CST – College of Arts and Sciences; Ben and Maytee Fisch College of Pharmacy
1 pm CST – Soules College of Business
Center, TX
- Melanie Bell, School of Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Tenaha, TX
- Jacquelyn Barton, College of Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
- Perla Santana, Soules College of Business, Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance
Timpson, TX
- Kamryn Courtney, Soules College of Business, Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance
- Harlie Ware, College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Science, Social Work
April 30, 2024 - The community celebrated recent renovations of the Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library on April 30, 2024, achieved through the efforts of the Center Rotary Club.
Steve Waters, Center Rotary Club President, described the event as a great day for the library and he elaborated on some of the work that’s been completed in the Redditt Room of the library.
“Obviously we’re here to dedicate what we’ve done through a grant from the Rotary District 5910, and it’s just a great day for the library,” said Waters. “We revamped this room, so nice. I appreciate everybody’s help in doing this.”
Waters commented that the Rotary Club has helped to improve on what already is a great resource for the community as it provides access to many things including educational materials.
“No matter what your economic level is we all [are] offered the ability to come here and increase our education, that sort of thing,” said Waters. “Glad. to be a part of this, as the Rotary Club is.”
Deborah Chadwick, Shelby County Chamber of Commerce President, complimented the awesome accomplishment in improving the library.
“When I first moved here, there were so many meetings and special events held in this room,” said Chadwick. “I’m glad Rotary has taken the initiative to start with the re-carpeting and flow on through and just really keep this library alive and very vital, it’s important, so thank you Rotary.”
Roy Davis, Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library, thanked the Rotary Club for the assistance and for the great improvement.
“This library has been in this place since 1974 and this is one of the first in a long series of what we hope will be some improvements that we’re going to make to the library,” said Davids.
There are many more improvements the library is looking forward to making in the near future, and Davis described the carpet replacement as a stepping stone toward those efforts.
“We have plans to do the other part of the library, and we’re already in contact with some people that are doing a grant to help us with this,” said Davis.
According to Davis, approval has already been received on the arrangement of the grant and furniture as well. The city of Center is also working to replace the roof of the library.
“We’re just looking forward to lots of improvements and want you to come by and enjoy the library,” said Davis.
He elaborated on the library being a place where families can come and gather, and the Redditt room being a place where people can have meetings of all kinds.
“We are getting new tables and chairs for the meeting area also, so that will be something that if you need someplace to have a workshop or something for your corporation, training session, we’ll be able to do that. We’re just very thankful for the help of the Rotary, Chamber, the city,” said Davis.
He said the library is really looking forward to new things.
Related article:
Rotary Club, Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library Celebrate Renovation with Ribbon Cutting
April 29, 2024 - As part of our service project focus for the 23-24 school year, Tenaha ISD Junior Chamber of Commerce students organized a fundraiser with the goal of supporting youth programs in Shelby County. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the students, the fundraiser was able to raise $1,000. The group decided to donate $500 of the proceeds to the Shelby County Welfare Board and another $500 to the Shelby County Children's Advocacy Center.
Shelby County Child Welfare representatives accept donation from JCC students.
The Shelby County Child Welfare Board is very important to our community, and they provide essential assistance to children in need of protection. They help purchase birthday gifts, Christmas presents, clothing, and ongoing support for children in Shelby County, including those in non-foster care through their yearly Empty Stocking Fund.
The Shelby County Advocacy Center, along with the Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas (CACTX) network, is important in helping children and families impacted by abuse. By supporting organizations like CACTX, JCC is helping over a million children and families across Texas achieve safety, justice, and healing during their time of need.
Tenaha's JCC students are working towards creating a community where all children can thrive and putting an end to child abuse, victimization, neglect, and many other harmful things that severely impact the youth of our community. JCC wants to ensure that these valuable programs continue to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families facing challenging circumstances.
Pageant Winners
April 26, 2024 (Photo Album) - The Miss Shelby County Pageant was held on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at the John D Windham Civic Center in Center, Texas. Under the direction of Sandrel Slaughter, the Miss Shelby County Pageant honored the remarkable pageant legacy of Mrs. Tonya Simmons Bailey. The pageant was a testament to grace, talent, and the vibrant spirit of our community.
With each graceful step and radiant smile, the contestants illuminated the stage, showcasing their unique talents and heartfelt dedication. Their remarkable performances captivated our hearts and reminded us of the extraordinary potential within each of us.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this event – from the contestants who showcased their talents and poise, parents for being supportive and allowing your child to participate, to the organizers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make it all possible. Your dedication and passion have truly made this year's pageant a memorable and uplifting experience for our community.
Tonya’s Tiara Recipient, Ty’ReUnnia Dock, with family members of Tonya Bailey.
As we reflect on the Miss Shelby County pageant and honor the legacy of Mrs. Tonya Simmons Bailey, let us continue to support and uplift one another, fostering a community where beauty, talent, and kindness shine brightly for all to see!
Tonya’s Tiara Recipient - Ty’ReUnnia Dock
Miss Shelby County Pageant Tiny Miss
Queen - Gianna Hill
1st Runner Up - Layla Gaddis
Covergirl - Karleigh Gardner
Photogenic - Gianna Hill
Sports Wear - Rilynn Young
Evening Wear - Zahni Phillips
Princesses: Carrington Ann Bailey, Memphis Sanders, Zahni Phillips, Giselle Ware, Sai Sai Stevenson, Analia Thirkill, Rilynn Young, and Karleigh Gardner
Miss Shelby County Pageant Petite Miss
Queen - Jaydah Bean
1st Runner Up - Heaven Martinez
Photogenic - Jaydah Bean
Sports Wear - Jaydah Bean
Evening Wear - Jaydah Bean
Princesses: Chesni Bledsoe, Skylar Williams, Tenlee Milford, and Rylee Osby
Miss Shelby County Pageant Junior Miss
Queen - Addison Lyons
1st Runner Up - Serenity Cotton
Interview - Serenity Cotton
Photogenic - Addison Lyons
Sports Wear - Addison Lyons
Evening Wear - Addison Lyons
Miss Shelby County Pageant Pre-Teen Miss
Queen - Madilyn Polley
1st Runner Up - Jayla Barkins
Interview - Madilyn Polley
Photogenic - Madilyn Polley
Sports Wear - Madilyn Polley
Evening Wear - Madilyn Polley
Miss Shelby County Pageant Teen Miss
Queen - CaLaysia Garrett
Interview - CaLaysia Garrett
Photogenic - CaLaysia Garrett
Sports Wear - CaLaysia Garrett
Evening Wear - CaLaysia Garrett
Miss Shelby County Pageant Miss
Queen - Ashton Watts
1st Runner Up - Breanna Gregory
Interview - Breanna Gregory
Photogenic - Ashton Watts
Sports Wear - Ashton Watts
Evening Wear - Ashton Watts
Princess: Ty’ReUnnia Dock
April 24, 2024 - The Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library in Center will be having its Spring Book Sale beginning Tuesday, April 30, and continuing through Saturday, May 4 in the Redditt Room of the library. The sale will begin at 10am daily and continue during regular library hours. Hardback books will cost $1, and paperbacks will cost 50 cents. For more information, call 936-598-5522.
From left: Volunteer - Dani Camp, Board Member - Shelby County Representative Tammie Luman, and Board President - Stephanie Elswick
April 18, 2024 - Happy Tails Adoption Center hosted a pet adaption event during the Spring Fling event at White Cottage Mercantile on Tuesday, April 16. If you missed it, the next live adoption event is Saturday, May 4th at Tractor Supply in Center from 10am until 2pm.
You can also show your support at the "BBQ Cause 4 Paws" fundraiser on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 5pm until 7pm on the downtown square. Dinner plates are $20 and includes pulled pork, beans, and potato salad. There will be raffle tickets to win a Ruger American .243 rifle with a black synthetic stock and optics ready, a 48 quart Yeti Cooler with wheels, and a win basket. Purchase tickets at www.happytails.org. Raffle winners will be drawn at the BBQ Cause 4 Paws event.
Be Blessed BBQ will be there as well as a bake sale items available for purchase!
April 16, 2024 - The historical Old Sardis Cemetery of San Augustine County will hold its annual homecoming with dinner on the grounds on Sunday, May 5, 2024. The association business meeting will be held at this time.
We welcome all to bring a covered dish and join us for a time of visiting and reminiscing about days gone by. As always donations are appreciated for the maintenance and upkeep of the cemetery.
Many pioneering families of Shelby and San Augustine counties are represented in this cemetery, for which a Texas historical marker was dedicated in June of 2018.
Hope to see you there!
Directions to Old Sardis Cemetery of San Augustine County: From Aiken, Hwy. 7, in Shelby County, take CR 1210 south for 4.5 miles to a four-way intersection of Rocky Mountain Road and Spring Ridge Road (CR 245N). Proceed straight on Spring Ridge Road for .4 miles, cemetery is on the left.
April 16, 2024 - The Miss Shelby County Pageant 2024 Honors The Pageant Legacy of Mrs Tonya Simmons Bailey Saturday, April 20th at The John D. Windham Civic Center at 1pm.
Tonya Simmons Bailey started competing in pageants when she was a toddler. The first time she was on television was when she was four years old. Tonya and her mom, Lila, were flown to New York City to talk about kids and pageants on The Art Linkletter Show. Tonya was always a natural when it came to being the center of attention, which led to modeling for several department stores, including Macy's.
When she was a high school senior, she decided that Center needed something more for the young girls of Shelby County and started the first Miss Shelby County Pageant. She looked forward to the pageant every year; she loved the planning, production, and overseeing every aspect of the pageant. She was not only the director but also an inspiration for so many young women all over the county, giving them the opportunity to make new lifelong friends while sharing their inner and outer beauty. She was a legend.
So many children were part of the Miss Shelby County Pageant, Miss And Mr. Pumpkin Patch, Little Miss Merry Christmas and Mr. Happy Holidays, The Watermelon Festival Pageant, and Toddlers and Tiaras. The Pageants were not only for the kids but also for her. She loved giving her time and attention to them; for that, she will always be a legend in Shelby County.
Tonya passed away on July 1, 2018, from Cancer, but she is loved and remembered for what she shared with the community.
April 5, 2024 - Hope Community Medicine held and open house and ribbon cutting for their Mobile Clinic on Friday, April 5, 2024, in Center.
Brandi Emanis, Marketing Director, welcomed everyone to the event and introduced Mike Belgard, CEO - Hope Community Medicine. Belgard thanked all present for attending the open house event and he stated the mobile clinic has been made possible by the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, most of you know about Temple Industry, they’re a big forestry group here in our area and they have a foundation that provides support for non-profits like Hope Community Medicine to help expand healthcare and to help expand access to internet service in rural areas.
“So they gave us a grant to buy this bus and put it into operation, and so we want to for sure thank them for the opportunity to do this,” said Belgard. “As you can tell, if you've been on a tour, we can do anything in this mobile clinic that we can do in our clinic over here on Tenaha Street or in any of our other clinics.”
Belgard listed many of the locations they visit including Panola County: Beckville, DeBerry, Gary, and Deadwood, and in Shelby County: Patroon, Joaquin, and Huxley, and in Sabine County: Milam, and Broadus. He said they are intending to expand that range as much as they can and maintain a routine to be consistent.
Not only does the bus help provide healthcare in the areas they visit, Belgard described their attempts and bringing nutrition to those in need as well, “We also not only provide medical care on this bus, we also bring food out to every place that we go. Make sure that everybody that walks in the door, when they leave, we give them a little sack of groceries that'll provide them three or four meals.”
Belgard said they want to continue to expand in working with food banks to bring food out. Hope Community Medicine now has an in-house pharmacy and they are expecting to integrate that into their mobile unit to shorten the distance for those individuals that may not be able to easily obtain their medications due to the distance of their residence from their medical provider.
“We're also working with our pharmacy staff that we just opened our pharmacy, our in-house pharmacy at the Center clinic. We actually provide low-cost medicines to anybody who's our patient,” said Belgard. “Regardless of your income, it doesn't matter that's not an issue with the medication and whether you have insurance or not that doesn't matter we provide good low-cost medicines to anybody who is our patient. We're also gonna expand that service to the bus, hopefully before too long. And actually, be able to bring out people's medications to them from the pharmacy.”
Belgard gave praise to God for bringing the project together and calling them to perform their mission.
“God has blessed us tremendously through all of this and continues to, and that's all we're here to do. We're just trying to make sure that we're doing what God has called us to do,” said Belgard. “That's our mission, that's our ministry, because this truly is a ministry. I think it's one of the best kept secrets in East Texas, but God has put all of this together, and I'm just, thankful to be a part of it.”
Belgard said Shelby County is the hub of operations for Hope Community Medicine, with 54 employees and service provided to five counties.
To contact Hope Community Medicine and make and an appointment call 936-598-2717. (See April calendar below)
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