Council Votes to Provide Utility Bill Relief

Mount Pleasant Tribune

www.TribNow.com 147th Year • No. 19 Mount Pleasant, Texas Saturday, March 6, 2021 75¢ Council votes to provide utility bill relief

COURTESY PHOTO Mask mandate to end Mar. 10 Area districts announce decisions on masking in schools

By DI DUNCAN [email protected]

On March 2, Texas Governor Greg Abbott an- nounced the lifting of the mask mandate across the state, as well as the total reopening of the state. “With the medical advancements of vaccines and antibody therapeutic drugs, Texas now has the tools COURTESY PHOTO to protect Texans from the virus,” said Governor Ab- By DI DUNCAN In the event that customers still have leaks after bott. “We must now do more to restore livelihoods [email protected] this billing cycle is complete, Reeve proposed a wa- and normalcy for Texans by opening Texas 100 per- ter leak adjustment policy. According to City Manag- c ent.” On March 2, City Finance Director Mykael Reeve er Ed Thatcher and Reeve, leak adjustment policies Next Wednesday, all businesses of any type may approached the City Council with a plan to assist are very common in municipalities. Essentially, an open to 100% capacity, though businesses may still utility department customers with higher than aver- average would be taken of the last few bills and com- limit capacity or implement safety protocols at their age bills due to the winter storms. Reeve stated that pare it with the current bill amount; the city would own discretion. Many large chains have already an- water leaks and residents leaving faucets dripping to then split the cost of any amount over that average nounced their intent to maintain a mask require- avoid leaks have led to higher than average water and with the customer. This would allow residential and ment for employees and customers in their stores. sewer bills for customers. commercial customers more time to have any leaks If COVID-19 hospitalizations in any Trauma Ser- Reeve said that the proposed plan included averag- repaired without paying exorbitant bills. vice Area rise above 15% of the hospital bed capacity ing the last three months of customers’ bills to calcu- “I think this is a nice relief that we can give them,” in that region for seven consecutive days, a County late an amount due on the next billing cycle, rather said Mayor Pro Tem Tim Dale. Judge may implement COVID-19 mitigation strate- than billing for the total amount that would be due. Councilman Henry Chappell said that he liked the gies such as lowering business capacity to 50%. This billing cycle began directly before the storm hit, idea of giving customers more time to have repairs Abbott says that these strategies do not apply to so Reeve says this next bill would include all storm religious and worship services. Additionally, County usage. See RELIEF Page 2 Judges can neither impose jail time for not following COVID-19 orders nor penalize any citizens for failing to wear a face mask, according to the executive order. Abbott stated that this executive order “does not abandon safe practices that Texans have mastered Reeve details storm damage over the past year. Instead, it is a reminder that each person has a role to play in their own personal safety and the safety of others. With this executive order, we are ensuring that all businesses and families in Texas sustained at city facilities have the freedom to determine their own destiny.” Residents are still strongly encouraged to wear a “Make no mistake, COVID-19 has not disappeared, but it is clear from the recoveries, vaccinations, reduced hospitalizations, and safe practices that Texans are using that state mandates are no longer needed,” said Abbott. mask while in public and social distance whenever possible to prevent a rise in COVID cases. As of March 4, nearly 5.7 million vaccine doses have now been administered in Texas, and according to Abbott, the state is now administering almost one million shots each week. Abbott says that by the end of March, every senior who wants a vaccine should be able to get one. He also states that Texas has a mass surplus of personal protective equipment at its disposal and that 100,000 COVID tests can be performed each day. Mykael Reeve informs the council of overall damages to facilities and the expected financial outcome for the City. Long-term care facilities such as nursing homes COURTESY PHOTO and assisted living centers are subject to guidance By DI DUNCAN Additionally, city street sweepers and other heavy from the Texas Health and Human Services Com- [email protected] equipment used to plow snow from roads suffered mission regarding visitations. Similarly, jails and damage; there was also damage to controls, pipes, detention centers are to follow recommended visi- At the last meeting of the Mount Pleasant City and equipment at water stations and facilities. tation practices as set by the Texas Commission on Council, Finance Director Mykael Reeve detailed the Reeve stated that the city has already filed a claim Jail Standards. damage that city parks and facilities sustained during with insurance, and an adjuster has visited all of the Winter Storm Uri, and how the city will financially re- damaged facilities. She said that all of the damage in- What this executive order means for schools: cover. curred will be filed under one claim so that the city In the executive order lifting the mask mandate, Reeve states that 18 bathrooms across city parks will only pay one deductible in the amount of $2,500. Abbott stated that schools were to receive guidance were severely damaged; porcelain toilets and sinks According to Reeve, the parks department has al- from the Texas Education Agency on how to pro- shattered in the cold, causing water damage along ready begun work on temporary repairs to get sys- ceed. TEA has now released its stance on the matter. with the need to replace these items. In concession tems up and running, and the city has spent approxi- According to TEA, students should remain stands, four of them suffered water damage, and in mately $5,000 so far on labor and materials. She says masked while on campus, and current protocols two of them, ice makers need replacing due to the should be upheld as much as possible. However, TEA damage done to them. See DAMAGE Page 2 See MASKS Page 2

Page 2 • TribNow.com NEWS March 6, 2021 Crime & Courts Notice of meeting of the Commissioners’ Court of Titus County 25 of Mt Pleasant for Arrests POSS CS PG 1 < 1G and Brian Lee, County Judge – 903-466-6666 Work Status • BAKER, ZACHA- POSS DRUG PARA- Jeff Parchman, Pct. 1 – 903-573-3030 6. Consider and Possibly Approve purchase of ad- RY ALAN, 32 of Mt PHERNALIA John Fitch, Pct. 2 – 903-563-2867 ditional security software by NET DATA at a one- Pleasant for PUBLIC • BUTLER, DESIREE, Dana Applewhite, Pct. 3 – 903-563-3173 time cost of $3,785 with an annual maintenance INTOXICATION 21 of Mt. Pleasant for Jimmy Parker, Pct. 4 – 903-573-6202 cost of $700 (Seth Bryan – Kaybro Technologies, • KING, MATHEW, 39 of POSS CS PG 1 < 1G, by phone) Lone Star for THEFT POSS CS PG 1 >= 1G < Notice is hereby given that a Regular Meeting of the 7. Consider and Possibly Approve Volunteer Fire De- PROP <$2,500 2/ 4G9(PAROLE VIOLA- Commissioners’ Court of Titus County, Texas, will be partment Contract MORE PREV CONV TION) and POSS DRUG held on the 8th day of March 2021 at 9:00 o’clock a.m., 8. Consider and Possibly Approve an annual contract in the Titus County Courthouse, County Courtroom, with Newman Electronics for the maintenance of • RODGERS,BETTY PARAPHERNALIA SHEILIAH, 48 of Cason 100 West First Street, Room 205, Mt. Pleasant, Texas cameras and digital recording equipment at a cost for POSS CS PG 1 < 1G 75455, at which time the following subjects will be dis- of $6,500 annually and POSS MARIJ < 2OZ Marriages cussed not necessarily in the order presented: 9. Discuss repairs needed at Justice Center with pos- • Wayne Charlton and • MATHIS, MICHAEL sible action Peggy J. Robbins, Feb. WAYNE, 51 of Mt. INVOCATION 10. Consider and Possibly Approve repairs to both 22 Pleasant for FTA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE public restrooms at the Courthouse Annex • Jay Randall McDaniel DRIVING W/LIC INV 11. Consider and Possibly Approve payment for a pau- and Connie Lynn Rolf, 1. Public Comments and/or Requests for Informa- W/PREV CONV/SUS- per’s funeral for Kena Boyd Feb. 23 tion on Non-Agenda Items in Accordance With P/W/O FI 12. Consider and Possibly Approve survey of Forest • Billy Jack Attaway and Section 551.042, Texas Open Meetings Act • POLICE, JORDAN Lawn Cemetery to include four new burial sec- Analisa Marie Ruggles, 2. Consider and Possibly Approve Minutes from Feb- RASHAD, 28 of Mt. tions (John Fitch) Feb. 24 ruary 8th, 2021 Regular Meeting of the Commis- Pleasant for TAMPER/ 13. Approve Oral and Written Reports of County Of- • Usiel D. Diego-Bradley sioners’ Court (Tabled 2-22-21) FABRICATE PHYS ficials and Tyler Ann Nicode- 3. Consider and Possibly Approve Minutes from Feb- EVID W/INTENT TO 14. Consider and Possibly Approve Treasurer’s Report mus, Feb. 25 ruary 22nd, 2021 Special Meeting of the Commis- IMPAIR and POSS 15. Approve Budget Amendments • Jose Luis Gonzalez sioners’ Court MARIJ < 2OZ 16. Sign Pay Orders and Approve Payments and Zulineth De Jesus, 4. Consider and Possibly Approve Minutes from • STAFFORD, BILLY, 17. Closing Comments by County Judge and Commis- Feb. 26 February 25th, 2021 EMERGENCY Meeting of the Commissioners’ Court sioners, if any 5. Report From Commissioners Regarding Road ADJOURN Like us on Facebook Lions Club delivers lunches to Tri-SUD employees Mount Pleasant In appreciation for Tribune the hard work of Tri-SUD employees in restoring water to county residents after the winter storms, the Mount Pleasant Lions Club delivered lunch from Laura’s Cheesecake to the utility district on Fri- day. TRIBUNE PHOTO / BRITTANY CUMMINGS

Reeve stated that in order to receive a water leak Relief Continued from page 1 adjustment, customers must make a request in writ- ing. Initially, Reeve suggested having the form accessi- made, because each plumber he has spoken with is ble online so that customers can download it, fill out “booked solid.” the form, and email it in, but Dale had some concerns “It could take weeks before some of these issues ac- about elderly citizens and those without internet ac- tually get resolved,” said Chappell. cess. He suggested including the forms with each bill, Mayor Tracy Craig added that supplies to repair and Reeve agreed that was doable. leaks are relatively low in local stores, so some plumb- After this, there were no further questions, so Craig Time to take a closer look at ers and homeowners are being forced to leave town to opened the council to make a motion. Councilman Ga- find the necessary materials. len Adams moved to approve the relief plan, Chappell your financial picture? “I think giving them that time is important,” said seconded the motion, and the council unanimously Craig. approved. Will your current portfolio meet your needs for your retirement? If you’re not For anything that insurance does not cover, Reeve sure, it may be time to consider an Damage Continued from page 1 says the city has applied for a grant from FEMA. This objective evaluation. My investment grant, if awarded, could also help the city regain funds advice is tailored to helping your reach that insurance will reimburse the city for all costs to spent when using the civic center as a warming center your goals, both now and in the future. repair, including labor. during the storm, as well as supplies issued to employ- For the damaged equipment, additional paperwork ees who were working during that time. Contact me today to schedule a will need to be filed to be added to the claim. Consultation and Portfolio Review. Cannaday keep all stakeholders as safe as possible. We will com- Masks Continued from page 1 municate with you regarding any changes in the future,” Financial Services said Marshall. is allowing school boards across the state to opt out of Chapel Hill ISD issued a similar statement, which said Larry C. Cannaday this and no longer require the masks on campus if they the following: Financial Consultant so wish. TEA recommended that public school systems “Chapel Hill will continue operating as we have been consult with their local public health authorities and lo- until the 12/10/2020 Public Health Guidance is removed 2001 West Ferguson Road Mt. Pleasant. Texas cal legal counsel before making final decisions. or revised by TEA. Following any change, Chapel Hill will “Consistently implementing recommendations to the publish and notify the public of any new local policies 903-577-7086 extent feasible is the best way to reduce the potential and practices in a timely fashion. negative impact of infection on students’ educational “We encourage all students and their families to con- Securities offered through LPL Financial experiences,” says TEA. Mount Pleasant ISD Superinten- tinue to follow safe practices and preventative strategies. Member NASD/SIPC dent Judd Marshall says the district plans to do just that. These include not coming to school if you have any symp- “Mt. Pleasant ISD will continue to follow the same toms of active coronavirus infection such as fever, new or guidelines put in place at the beginning of the year re- worsening headache, breathing problems, coughing, fa- garding masks. Out of an abundance of caution, we do tigue, or muscle aches. Active hand washing with warm not believe this is the appropriate time to lift the mask- water and soap for at least 20 seconds and not touching ing rules that we have had in place for the past seven your face, mouth, or eyes remains one of the best ways to months. Please understand that we are doing everything prevent transmission of the coronavirus. possible to continue to have in-person instruction and “Chapel Hill remains committed to ensuring all students are cared for and supported well to achieve 1201 N. Jefferson their fullest potential. We will continue to maintain MASON’S 903-572-6737 the highest possible clean- liness of our facilities to Attorneys at Law provide a safe and clean environment for our stu- WE ARE OPEN dents and staff. Our students remain our highest 205 Linda Dr. priority and we will make Daingerfield, TX 75638 for in store business as usual. sure that each student is provided a quality educa- Our hours are 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday thru tion regardless of the chal- (903) 645-7333 Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. lenges we face together.” According to Harts Bluff www.rlbfirm.com Customers can call ahead for curbside pickup if needed. ISD Superintendent Bob- by Rice, that district has Thanks, Jim Mason, yet to make a determina- Mason Hardware tion on how to proceed.

March 6, 2021 LOCAL TribNow.com • Page 3 Obituaries

BURNS HOWARD at a later date. Memorial gifts may be made to Tenni- son Memorial United Methodist Church or Chambers James Timothy Burns, Funeral service for Toney Hospice. age 68 of Mount Vernon, Darrell Howard, 53, a res- Online registry is available at batescoopersloanfu- Texas, passed away on ident of Mt. Pleasant, Tex- neralhome.com Monday, February 8, 2021 as will be Friday, March 5, in Tyler, Texas at the Wat- 2021 at 1:00 P.M. at Tumey BIRDINE kins-Logan Texas State Mortuary Chapel. Burial Veterans Home. He served in Cortznes Cemetery un- Gracie Lene Birdine passed away February 24, 2021 in the US Army, 1972 - 1974 der the direction of Tumey at Lakeview Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in in the 3/61st, Armored Di- Mortuary, Mt. Pleasant. Mr. Winnsboro, Texas at the age of 87. Her graveside ser- vision, Spearhead, Germa- James Timothy Burns Howard was born October Toney Darrell Howard vices will be Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. at ny. (Missiles) 28, 1967 in Mt. Pleasant, West Chapel Cemetery, Leesburg, Texas with Rev. Ter- He was a descendant of some of the earliest setters of Texas and died February 27, 2021. ry Moton as eulogist and burial will be at West Chap- the republic of Texas, the Burns, Parchman and Scott Public viewing will be Thursday, March 4, 2021 at the el Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Families. funeral Home from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Online condo- Home, Pittsburg, Texas. James (Tim) was born to Billy Merle Burns and Nell lences can be left at www.tumeymortuary.com. We’re po- Ruth Thomas on December 11,1952 in Mount Pleasant, litely asking all in attendance to please wear their mask DUFFEY Texas. and to practice social distancing. Melton E. Duffey passed away February 26, 2021 at He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Greenhill Villa of Mt. Pleasant, Texas at the age of 59. Richard Malcom Burns (Dickie) and sister, Billie Ruth FISHER His funeral service will be Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Burns Hamrick. 1:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Graveside service for Vir- James is survived by his sisters, Bettye Burns Delaney Terry Moton as eulogist and burial will be at Cedar ginia Ann Fisher, 68, a resi- and her husband, Daniel F. Delaney of Houghton, Louisi- Grove Cemetery, Pittsburg, under the direction of John- dent of Mt. Pleasant, Texas ana and Bobbie Nell Clark Matthews of Mount Pleasant, son Funeral Home, Pittsburg, Texas. will be Saturday, March 6, Texas. He is also survived by several Nieces and Nephews. 2021 at 12:00 P.M. at Piney Funeral services were on Saturday, February 13, 2021 WILLIAMS Cemetery with Pastor John at Sam B. Harvey Home at 1:00 pm with Bro. Pepper Pur- Hines, officiating. Burial in Graveside service for year officiating. Interment will at the Mount Vernon City Piney Cemetery under the Robert Lee Williams Jr., Cemetery. direction of Tumey Mortu- 38, a resident of Austin Online condolences can be made at: www.samharvey- ary, Mt. Pleasant. Mrs. Fish- and formerly Daingerfield, funeralhome.com. Virginia Ann Fisher er was born April 23, 1952 Texas, will be Saturday, Services entrusted to Sam B. Harvey Funeral Home. in Mt. Pleasant, Texas and died February 25, 2021. March 6, 2021 at 2:00 P.M. Public viewing will be Friday, March 5, 2021 at the at Reynolds Cemetery in ROLLING funeral Home from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Online condo- Daingerfield with Minis- Mildred Jean Avara Roll- lences can be left at www.tumeymortuary.com. We’re ter Ricky Williams, offici- ing, age 82, went to be politely asking all in attendance to please wear their ating. Burial in Reynolds Robert Lee Williams Jr. with her heavenly father mask and to practice social distancing at both loca- Cemetery under the di- on Saturday, February 27, tions. rection of Tumey Mortuary, Mt. Pleasant. He was born 2021. She was born in Mc- June 14, 1982, in Mt. Pleasant, Texas and died February Comb, MS on January 10, BOWERS 26, 2021. Viewing will be Friday, March 5, 2021 from 3pm to 1939 to Elmer Avara and James (Junk) Arnold Christine Avara Morgan. 7pm at the funeral home. Online condolences can be Bowers died at home on left at www.tumeymortuary.com. We’re politely asking A funeral service will be Tuesday, February 23, 2021 held on Tuesday, March all attendees to please wear their mask and to practice Mildred Jean Avara Rolling in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. He social distancing at all locations. 2, 2021 at Curry-Welborn was born on November Funeral Home beginning 30, 1932 in Dunn, Tex- BOLTON at 2:00 PM with Yanckton Hatten officiating. Visitation as to George Lee Bowers will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 PM prior to the service. and Norma Bowers. He Barry A. Bolton “Tut” 63 of Ft. Worth, Texas formerly Interment will follow at Farmers Academy cemetery. attended school in Dunn of Gilmer, Texas passed away Sunday February 28, 2021 Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Delwin Willie, in Ft. Worth, Texas. Services are pending with J.C. White and graduated from Sny- James (Junk) Arnold Bowers Tanner McFerren, Ronnie Walker Jr., Vernon Lee Hill Jr., der High School in 1950. Funeral & Cremation Services of Mt. Pleasant, Texas. Ricky Hill, Guy Robles, Royce Ellington, Bobby Howerton Junk married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Ann Online condolences may be left at www.jcwhitefd.com. and Scott McFerren. Weber Bowers, on July 10, 1953 in Snyder, Texas. They Growing up Mildred was very close to her family, es- spent the next two years in Brooklyn, New York, where CASTANON pecially her siblings Jean and Dean Morgan. You could he was stationed at Governors Island as an M.P. in the Daniela Castanon infant girl of Mt. Pleasant, Texas always find them sharing a laugh or two together. She U.S. Army. He worked in natural gas plants as a roust- passed away Saturday February 27, in Dallas, Texas. enjoyed hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains and looking about operator and plant foreman and ended his career Services are pending with J.C. White Funeral & Crema- at the waterfalls. Some of her proudest and most cher- as owner of Bowers Ultrasonics doing metal pipe test- tion Services of Mt. Pleasant, Texas. Online condolenc- ished moments were the ones she spent with her 5 chil- ing in natural gas processing facilities until he was 80 es may be left at www.jcwhitefd.com. dren and grandchildren, which she loved very much. She years old. He was a lifelong Methodist and a member of was a member of Dellwood Park Assembly of God, and a Tennison Memorial United Methodist Church and the ALLEN member of their prayer group. Janet Martin Sunday School class for 50 years. Over the Greyson Ray Allen infant baby boy passed away She is survived by her children, Delwin Willie, Judy years he served as usher, member of the Grounds Com- Robles and husband Guy, Sherry Ellington and husband Wednesday March 3, 2021 in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. Ser- mittee and the Wednesday night cooking team. vices are pending with J.C. White Funeral & Cremation Royce, Michelle Howerton and husband Bobby, Chris- Junk is survived by his wife Shirley Ann Bowers, son ty McFerren and husband Scott; sister’s, Kathryn Mc- Services of Mt. Pleasant, Texas. Online condolences and wife Powell and Barbara Bowers, daughter-in-law may be left at www.jcwhitefd.com. Curnin, Jeanette Whittington, and Jean Berteau and hus- Jana Bowers, grandchildren Jennifer and Joseph Bow- band Donald, as well as 9 grandchildren, 13 great-great ers and Michael and Madison Bowers. He was preced- TURNER children, and numerous nieces and nephews. ed in death by his son Randy Joe Bowers and his par- Preceding her death is her husband Edward Joseph ents George and Norma Bowers. Tomeka Turner, 43, a resident of Mt. Pleasant, Texas, Rolling IV (E.J.), parents, Christine Morgan and Elmer Av- Because of COVID-19, a memorial service will be died Wednesday, March 3, 2021. Services are pending ara; brothers, William Avara and Buddy Morgan; grand- held at Tennison Memorial United Methodist Church with Tumey Mortuary, Mt. Pleasant. son, Dustin Howerton.

County Offices City Government Office Office Holder Phone Name Title Phone County Judge The Honorable (903) 577-6791 CRAIG, Sr., TRACY City Mayor 903-575-8436 CHAPPELL, II, HENRY Councilmember Place 5 903-575-8337 Brian P. Lee WALKER, JERRY Councilmember Place 1 903-575-8451 District Attorney SPRUILL, SHERRI Councilmember Place 2 903-575-8442 District 76 David Colley (903) 577-6726 DALE, TIM Mayor Pro Tem 903-575-8452 County Attorney John M. Cobern (903) 572-0382 ADAMS, GALEN Councilmember Place 3 903-575-8336 District Clerk Marcus Carlock (903) 577-6724 Thatcher, Ed City Manager 903-575-4000 County Clerk Joan Newman (903) 577-6796 County Treasurer Sheryl Preddy (903) 572-8723 Tax Assessor-Collector Melissa Stevens (903) 577-6712 Sheriff Tim Ingram (903) 572-6641 County Auditor Barbara Shurbet (903) 572-8101 Chief Appraiser Shirley Dickerson (903) 572-7939 Elections Administrator Pamela Holmes (903) 575-0902 County Commissioner: Precinct 1 Jeffrey Parchman (903) 572-8740 Precinct 2 John Fitch (903) 563-2867 Precinct 3 Dana Applewhite (903) 575-0478 Precinct 4 Jimmy Parker (903) 572-0402 Justice of the Peace: Precinct 1 Steve Agan (903) 577-6760 Precinct 2 Irma Dunn (903) 577-6756 Constable: Precinct 1 Chris Durant (903) 577-6762 Precinct 2 Ray Barrett (903) 577-6766

Page 4 • TribNow.com PERSPECTIVESPERSPECTIVES March 6, 2021 Some days must be dark and dreary It was the “could have been a whole lot worse” bra? I think not. times, it was the “when are things going to start A red fox passed through our neighborhood the looking up” times; it was the winter we couldn’t be- The View other morning. I heard its distinctive scream and lieve the daffodils were already starting to bloom, it wondered what it was looking for. The ark, maybe? was the winter we thought we’d all freeze to death; From A Farr I like my neighborhood foxes. They remind me that we thought we had the answers to everything, we By TRACY FARR I’m not the center of our universe, and that marvels found out we had the answers to nothing; we knew Contributing Writer can be found everywhere, if we only have the eyes to we’d all end up in heaven, we knew that everybody see them. else would end up going the other way. To be honest, NASA’s rover “Perseverance” landed on Mars the if we were to be magically transported back to the continued fealty. other day. I watched as the SUV-sized machine was Victorian Ages, we’d fit right in, except we’d miss our It was the year of Our Lord two thousand and twen- lowered to the Red Planet. I’m fascinated with the automobiles and weep for the fact that microwaves ty-one, and we were starting to think we’d never see solar system and what lies beyond. It reminds me and packaged Ramen noodles hadn’t been invented snow in our front yards ever again. Gone were the that we’re not the center of our universe, and that yet. days, we thought, of scarves, heavy coats and snow- marvels are just waiting to be found if we only have In the East, there was a victorious chief sitting on man building. But just as we opened our mouths and the perseverance to look for them. the seat of power, one of the most powerful seats in uttered remorse for the death of winter precipitation, Lately, I’ve been reading a lot of novels by Charles all the world. He made plans to help the poor and the the Earth blew its frozen breath across the land, and Dickens. They are full of beautiful language, despica- downtrodden, and the mass of his followers thought for seven days, we thought we’d all die from frostbite. ble characters, bad weather, meat pies and people him honorable and trustworthy. In the South, there When warmth returned, the skies opened up with who are barely surviving the times in which they are was a vanquished chief fuming in seclusion. He drenching rain, and then we thought we’d all drown living – much like today. The novels are also filled played lots of golf and made plans to take revenge to death. And is there a one among us who would’ve with every-day heroes who are the embodiment of on all who opposed him. Some of his followers fash- been surprised to see Noah’s Ark drifting down I-30, kindness, compassion, and empathy – again, much ioned a golden statue in his likeness to prove their carrying every pair of animals from aardvark to ze- like today. The Bear apologized to “Sugar Land Express” In a long letter dated Mar. 4, 1981, Paul “Bear” Bryant, ed a fellow Aggie. “But Ken was such a nice guy that he former head football coach at Texas A&M, apologized n e v er di d .” to Kenneth Hall for squandering his gridiron gift in the This Week in “Ken was, by far, the best athlete in the group of fresh- 1950’s. men who went to A&M in ’54. He was the fastest person If numbers mean anything, Charles Kenneth Hall was Texas History we had on the team,” John David Crow stated unequiv- the greatest high school running back of all-time. “The By BARTEE HAILE ocally. “But Coach Bryant’s system did not match Ken’s Sugar Land Express” set a national career rushing record of abi lity.” 11,232 yards in four seasons while playing a maximum of 12 A frustrated Hall quit the team in 1955. He returned the games a year. next season, encountered more of the same and left College At six-foot-one and 205 pounds, Hall was larger than points for a grand total of 49 points. He did all that before Station for good. most linemen in the days before teenage athletes pumped halftime and spent the rest of the contest on the sidelines. While Crow was winning the Heisman Trophy in the fall iron and swallowed steroids. “As the wingback, I was the By the time Hall graduated from Sugar Land High, he had of 1957, Hall was freezing his tail off in the Canadian Foot- last guy through the hole on a lot of plays,” a teammate re- established 17 national records. Several, including the ca- ball League. Even though he had not even lettered at A&M, called. “I knew that if I didn’t get the linebacker, Kenneth reer rushing mark, stood for decades. Four were single-sea- Baltimore drafted him in 1958. But he hurt his back in an would run over both of us.” son bests for most touchdowns per game (4.8), most points exhibition game and did not play a down with the Colts. More than merely big and strong, Hall was also faster per game (32.9), total offense per game (428.8) and rushing Hall was never the same after the serious injury. He stuck than greased lightning. Blessed with the speed of an Olym- yards per game (337.1). it out for four more seasons seeing limited action with the pic sprinter, his best time in the 100-yard dash was 9.6 sec- College recruiters, more than 200 in all, stood in line for Chicago and St. Louis Cardinals and the Houston Oilers. onds, he could beat anybody in a footrace to the end zone. the privilege of offering Hall a scholarship. He considered Then in 1961 at the age of 27, he was finished forever with The soft-spoken star was the complete performer. “A big Notre Dame and Rice, but Texas A&M always had the inside football. Doak Walker” was how one ex-opponent described him. track. “I liked A&M’s tradition. Every time I’d see the Aggie Twenty years later, an unexpected letter came in the mail. “He could do it all – run, pass, punt and kick extra points.” band, I felt that A&M was a special place, and I wanted to be “For many years I’ve been very critical of myself for the way I After Hall became the starting tailback in the sixth game part of it”. handled you at Texas A&M, otherwise you would have been of his freshman year, Sugar Land won 38, lost one and tied The Aggies’ new coach closed the deal with a visit to an All-American football player,” wrote his old coach. “You one. In 1951, 1952 and 1953, the Gators went as far as a the Hall home. Over dinner Paul Bryant convinced Ken’s would have played on a national championship team and Class B team could back then winning three straight region- parents that A&M was where their son belonged. you would have been one of the main reasons they were na- al championships. But Hall discovered that the southern gentleman, who tional champions.” As a senior in 1953, Hall rushed for 4,045 yards (a single had charmed his folks, was a ferocious bear on the prac- No one could have blamed Kenneth Hall for ignoring the season best for a Texan still to this day) and lit up the score- tice field. Oblivious to the blue-chipper’s high school overdue apology or for telling “Bear” Bryant where to go. board for 395 points eclipsing the Texas mark of 318 set in stats and blazing speed, Bryant moved him to fullback But he wrote back, and his reply was generous. 1934 by Dick Todd of Crowell. That season Sugar Land av- on offense and from safety to linebacker on defense. Hall “Your words are gratifying and I feel it was not an easy eraged 606 yards a game on the ground, most ever for a high struggled to learn the unfamiliar positions, an ordeal his thing to do. Those days are gone, but the results still linger school offense. coach made much tougher with his constant cursing and in me – and they are all positive. Stop being so critical of Hall’s best night was on Oct. 9, 1953 against Houston Lu- abuse. yourself!” theran. On just 11 carries, he gained 520 yards and tallied Hall kept his mouth shut and tried to do what he was four touchdowns. He also ran back a kickoff, a punt and an told. “If he had done something extreme (like) hit Bryant Bartee Haile welcomes your comments and suggestions at intercepted pass for three more TD’s and kicked seven extra right in the nose, he might have been better off,” speculat- [email protected]. Benefits of organic mulch Adding organic mulch to a vegetable, herb, or flow- ic matter. er garden is something we hear and consider, but Tilling mulch into the soil has additional bene- often fail to use. This is a shame, because it can im- On fits. It initially pulls nutrients, particularly Nitrogen, prove results, and save work in the long run. Inorgan- from the soil, but this can be countered by increasing ic mulch helps, but organic mulch is better over the Gardening fertilizer applications by 50%. With mulch on and long haul. underneath the surface, breakdown into compost Putting 3-6” of mulch on top of the soil helps keep By DAVID WALL is greatly enhanced. Aeration expands, as does the the soil cool and conserves moisture by slowing soil’s ability to hold moisture. ground evaporation. This means less watering. As High quality mulches on top of the soil are pine organic materials decompose, they slowly create up moisture and slowing rain’s impact on the soil, needles and straw or hay. Grass clippings are good topsoil. Its cooling allows roots to approach the soil mulch helps prevent soil erosion. It further reduces but mulch them in your lawn! Bark and wood chips surface where the best nutrients are located. Un- soil compaction, which improves aeration. Roots work very well. Pine wood chips may cause some mulched soil usually gets too hot in the first 5” for need air. problems due to its high resin content. A partial list roots to survive. When the growing season is over, till the mulch into of other materials includes shredded leaves, pecan From a work standpoint, it reduces weed problems the soil and about 1lb. of 3-2-3 organic fertilizer per shells, buckwheat hulls, peanut shells, & grapefruit by preventing and inhibiting germination. By soaking 100 feet to help soil organisms break down the organ- skins. Sawdust is not recommended.

Mount Pleasant Tribune © 2021, Mount Pleasant Tribune The Mount Pleasant Tribune and www.tribnow.com, as well as any reasonable derivative of these Subscribe to the names, are trademarks of Northeast Texas Publishing, LP and use of these trademarks without the express written consent of Northeast Texas Publishing, LP is strictly prohibited. The entire contents of each issue of the Mount Pleasant Tribune and www.tribnow.com are protected under the Federal Copyright Act. Reproduction of any portion of any issue will not be permitted without the express permission of Mount Pleasant Northeast Texas Publishing, LP. Published Wednesdays and Saturdays, In-County Circulation Rates: plus daily online at tribnow.com 12 months $60, 6 months $36, 3 months $21, Periodical postage paid at 1 month $8, E-edition only $60 annual. Tribune Mount Pleasant, Texas © Copyright 2021 Mount Pleasant Tribune under Act of March 31, 1916. 202 S. Van Buren, POSTMASTER: Mount Pleasant, Texas 75456 Form 3579 should be sent to Phone 1-903-572-1705 • Fax: 1-903-572-6026 MOUNT PLEASANT TRIBUNE, Website: tribnow.com 202 S. Van Buren, (USPS 365-540) Mount Pleasant, Texas 75456-1177 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 202 S. Van Buren • Mount Pleasant, Texas 75456 TONI ROWAN DI DUNCAN BRITTANY CUMMINGS KEILANI CHEEK Publisher Editor Advertising Manager Bookkeeper [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 903-572-1705 2021 www.TribNow.com

March 6, 2021 COMMUNITY TribNow.com • Page 5 Blood donors cite personal reasons for giving COMMUNITY CALENDAR Priefert Ranch Equipment, Titus Regional Medical Center, The Community Events Calendar is published as space permits. Events will also be published on our website. Submit event notices to: Higginbotham to host blood drives, saving and sustaining lives [email protected] MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas (March 3, 2021) – Some Higginbotham is hosting a drive from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. people give blood for the ‘free swag,’ snacks or the break Wednesday, March 17, at 1610 Shadywood Lane in the March 8 from a high school class or workday. Others donate parking lot of Capps Insurance Agency on the Carter The Caddo Trace Beekeepers Association will be having the gift of life for the mini health assessment including BloodCare bus. To receive more information or to sched- blood pressure, pulse rate, and hemoglobin levels that ule an appointment, contact Kirston Weddle at (903) an Introduction to Beekeeping Beginning March 8, 2021 are required in the pre-donation screening. Every blood 434-4746. at 5:30 pm at the County Agrilife Building, 1708 Industrial donor with Carter BloodCare receives a free cholesterol Appointments are encouraged and blood donors can RD, T. Pleasant, Texas 75455. The cost is FREE. For more check on each successful donation and will also receive complete the medical history questionnaire online on information contact Terry Wright 903-856-8005. a COVID-19 antibody test for a limited time during the the day of donation, before arriving to give blood. Donors pandemic. Donors can retrieve their antibody results and staff are required to wear masks; and surfaces are March 6 - April 24 within one to two weeks through a secure portal on the cleaned between each donation. The Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) is sponsoring blood center’s web site. Potential blood donors may volunteer beginning at Many blood donors say they give blood because they age 16 with parental consent; 17-year-olds may give in- a number of virtual retirement seminars through the end know someone whose life was saved or sustained by a dependently and there is no upper age limit for donating of April. Visit trta.org/retirementseminars to find the dates blood transfusion. Carter BloodCare invites those who blood. For more information on donor eligibility and to to enroll. If you need assistance, TRTA can be reached at donate with a patient or loved one in mind to share those make an appointment, call 1-800-366-2834 or visit carter- (800)880-1650. stories by emailing [email protected]. bloodcare.org. Sharing a personal story may just inspire others to give March 10 this March. About Carter BloodCare Priefert Ranch Equipment is hosting a drive from 9 Carter BloodCare is an independent, community blood Priefert Blood Drive a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 10, at 2630 S. Jeffer- center providing transfusion resources to more than 180 Event by Priefert Human Resources son in the parking lot on the Carter BloodCare bus. To re- medical facilities in 50-plus counties of north, central 2630 S Jefferson Ave, Mt Pleasant, TX 75455-5961, United ceive more information or to schedule an appointment, and east Texas. The non-profit 501(c)(3) organization is States contact Wendy Ramirez at (903) 434-8942. one of the largest blood programs in Texas, delivering Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at 9 AM CST – 3:30 PM CST Titus Regional Medical Center is hosting a drive from 9 more than 450,000 blood products annually to meet hos- Save a life! Give blood! a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, March 11, at 2001 N. Jefferson in pitals’ requirements for their patients. Services include the parking lot on the Carter BloodCare bus. To receive collection, processing, specialized laboratory testing, more information or to schedule an appointment, con- storage and distribution of blood and blood products. Tu March 13 tact Glenda Strain at (903) 577-6111. centro de sangre comunitario. The Mount Pleasant Youth Football Organization (MPYFO) will be hosting a skills camp on Saturday, March 13th. The camp is part of the preparation for travel youth football We’re enjoying the beauti- wonderful stories about let- ful weather and hoping that ters and words that change teams for the Fall 2021 season. The camp will consist of spring is right around the lives. Quirky characters position, speed, and agility drills and will be an opportunity LIBRARY for the MPYFO to introduce themselves to the community corner. What a great time cooperate to uncover mys- to visit the library and grab tery and bring out the best and communicate their plans for the league. Athletes will something good to read, lis- in people. These are suit- need to dress in comfortable workout attire and bring a ten to or watch! CORNER able for all ages. From the personal water bottle. All parents wanting their child to Preschool parents, rejoice! director of ‘Touched by an Ms. Natalie told me that she An gel ’.” participate need to register no later than March 9th. Any- By HELEN THOMPSON one interested in volunteering is also welcome to attend. will begin Story Time Tues- Librarian, Mount Pleasant Public Library If you’d like to contribute day, April 6, at 11 a.m. Plan a book or DVD review, email Due to COVID restrictions, all parents are asked to wear a to be here and block off each me or just drop it off in the mask. Athletes will also be required to wear a mask ONLY Tuesday morning for stories and a take-home craft. library. if it does not interfere with breathing capability. The camp Ms. Jeanette has Summer Reading Programs planned! Currently, I’m reading All Moral Flesh by Julia Spencer will be held at the Mount Pleasant Junior High track from We’ll supply take-home crafts in June and then plan to have Fleming. It’s number five in the series and each book just outdoor activities in July. Get ready for fun! keeps getting better and better. There are nine of these, so 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Ages 4-12 are welcome to attend and Here’s more from Library Reads for March, including you’ll be hearing about them for a few weeks. In this one, the camp is completely free. Please contact Zameon Lewis The Lost Village by Camilla Sten: “Set in a rural village in Russ is accused of murdering his wife. Clare, of course, un- 903-563-3898 or Billy Farrier 903-434-2253 to register. Sweden, where 800 inhabitants vanished in 1959, Alice and covers information leading to the real killer. This series is her crew set out to make a documentary about the myste- filled with page turners, and it’s best to begin with the first rious event. The book weaves together the story of the cur- one, In the Bleak Midwinter. rent-day documentarians with the story of the villagers of One of our book club members emailed me and suggest- the past. This one’s for readers who enjoyed Ghost Wall and ed we begin again with a Disappearing Earth.” (3-23) Sandra Heitzman “Zoom” book club meeting. It sounds like fun, so let me Float Plan is by Trish Doller. “After the death of her fi- know if you’re interested and we’ll get together with the ancé, Anna decides to complete the sailing voyage they details. had planned, alone. This is a heartfelt story of navigating Happy reading! We’ll look for you in the library or curb- through grief and finding oneself and a new direction in life side. along the way. This is good for fans of Pretending and The Fifteen Wonders of Daniel Green.” (3-2) Sandra Woodbury Sudoku Solution for Feb. 27 In Libertie, a novel by Kaitlyn Greenidge, “Libertie is a Black girl living with her mother, a doctor who helps slaves in their run to freedom. Libertie thinks her mother is her- self enslaved by her work, but after she marries and moves to the Caribbean, things seem less clear. This is for readers who enjoyed Washington Black and Underground Rail- road.” (3-30) Marie Byars Chris Whitaker’s new book is We Begin at the End. “Compelling and heartbreaking, this story brings together two of the most compelling characters you may ever meet. Duchess Day Radley and Walk are bound together by un- easy threads, each compelled to dig in and survive, even as they try to move beyond their pasts and what seem to be their inevitable futures. If you enjoyed The Good Daughter and The Roanoke Girls, you’ll like this one.” (3-2) Jennifer Ohzourk SJ Bennett’s latest is The Windsor Knot. “When a myste- rious death occurs at Windsor Castle, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and Private Secretary Rozie must solve the case when MI5 and the police head in the wrong direction. A great cast of characters and a wonderful sense of setting make a fun and entertaining read for readers who loved CROSSWORD Hope Never Dies and Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts.” (3- THEME: BASEBALL DOWN 1. *Eat a hot one at the game 9) Jennifer Williams ACROSS 2. Copycat Don, one of our patrons, dropped off a couple of DVD 1. Turkey trot, e.g. 3. *Number of standard baseball 6. Dadaist Jean positions reviews. “I highly recommend the movie “The Book Thief ”. 9. *____ crew, Milwaukee 4. Miss Muffet’s meal It’s very realistic fiction. This is the story of a young teen in Brewers fan base 5. Vomiting 13. Poppy seed derivative 6. Highest point Nazi Germany who is adopted by a childless couple. During 14. Afghan monetary unit 7. *Scoring unit WWII, the family hides a Jew in the basement. Full of ex- 15. Hotel room option 8. Annapolis frosh 16. Category of artistic com- 9. Tulip’s early stage treme drama, intense joy, unbelievable sadness, it is a story position 10. Capital of Latvia 17. Between northeast and east 11. Et alibi (2 words) of resilience, courage and triumph over every obstacle. I 18. Relating to pond scum 12. Water source think parents should watch it with their 13+ children and 19. *Babe Ruth’s first major 15. Bacchus’ attendants league team 20. Weasel’s aquatic cousin talk about the life lessons contained in the film.” 21. *____-and-____ sport 22. *Baseball trajectory “Most of the Hallmark series are now in the library, in- 23. Dog command 24. Diver’s edible reward 24. Bald eagle’s home 25. Muslim woman’s headscarf cluding ‘Signed, Sealed and Delivered’. This series contains 25. Witchy woman 26. Caribbean island destination 28. Back wound? 27. Gained access to (2 words) 30. Siskel or Ebert 29. Hoppy beers 35. Smoothing appliance 31. Individual unit 37. Distinctive flair 32. Bottom line CROSSWORD SOLUTION 39. Stomata, sing. 33. Idealized image 40. Burlap fiber 34. *Katie ____ or “____ at 41. Archeologist’s find the Bat” 43. Estimated arrivals 36. Empty when kids leave 44. Discompose 38. World’s longest river 46. Cobbler’s concern 42. Cut it out 47. Merlin or Gandalf 45. Moved a flock of sheep 48. *B in RBI 49. Certain John’s or Jane’s last 50. Close by name 52. Spade for stony ground 51. Re-use old ideas 53. Karl of politics 54. Car sound, to a toddler 55. Between ready and go 56. Trinity 57. *Left, center or right one 57. Small door-opening devices 61. *Yankees’ only #4 58. One of the hipbones, pl. 64. Blast from the past 59. Whirlpool 65. Crew tool 60. “Big Little ____” 67. Helped 61. What Jack’s beanstalk did 69. ____ one’s time, past tense 62. It comes to mind

for Feb. 27 Feb. for 70. Schiller’s poem 63. Turned to the right, like a 71. Express contempt horse 72. What Simon does 66. Commotion or fuss 73. Cut grass 68. Wine quality 74. Intoxicating

Page 6 • TribNow.com NEWS / CLASSIFIEDS March 6, 2021 Invasive Zebra Mussels found in aquarium “moss ball” product in pet and aquarium supply stores The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and PetSmart of the presence of zebra mussels within this prod- Texas lakes and are causing changes to the ecosystem along other wildlife agencies around the country are urging stores uct,” said Jarret Barker, TPWD Assistant Law Enforcement with damage to boats, water supply and control infrastruc- who sell aquarium products to remove a “moss ball” aquar- Commander. “We urge any other pet and aquarium or retail ture,” said Brian Van Zee, TPWD Inland Fisheries Regional ium plant product from their shelves and for customers to store selling these ‘moss balls’ to remove this product from Director. “It is important that we take all possible precau- dispose of the contaminated product after invasive zebra shelves and discontinue future sale.” tions to prevent them from being introduced elsewhere.” mussels have been found hitchhiking on these products in Aquarium owners are urged to stop buying this prod- Aquarium dumping is a well-known pathway for intro- states around the country, including Texas. uct and to safely dispose of any that have already been duction of aquatic invasive species as well-meaning pet These “moss balls” are a species of algae that form green purchased. This can be done safely by completely drying, owners release unwanted pets, unintentionally causing balls up to a few inches in diameter and are sold as an freezing, or placing the moss balls into a plastic zipper bag harm to native fish and wildlife. This includes not only the aquarium plant under names such as “Beta Buddy Mari- and then disposing of it in a garbage bag. Aquarium water fish, but also aquarium plants and organisms like the zebra mo Balls,” “Mini Marimo Moss Balls,” and “Marimo Moss should be replaced, and filters/cartridges replaced or disin- mussels that may be hitchhiking on these plants. Aquarium Ball Plant.” They may be sold separately or provided with fected. Aquarium water can be disinfected prior to disposal owners are urged to never dump their tanks and to learn the sale of Betta fish. These moss balls are believed to have by adding one cup of bleach per gallon and allowing it to sit more about alternatives to aquarium dumping by visiting been im ported from the Ukraine and distributed across the for 10 minutes before disposing the water down the drain. the TexasInvasives website. continental U.S. This method can also be used to disinfect gravel, filter, and “Invasive species such as these zebra mussels and snails Zebra mussels can be recognized as small shellfish with other structures, and is highly recommended if zebra mus- can hitchhike in aquatic plants sold for aquarium use,” said triangular, brownish shells, often with their namesake ze- sels are found attached to the moss or in the aquarium. Monica McGarrity, Senior Scientist for Aquatic Invasive bra stripes, that may be attached to or growing inside the Zebra mussels are highly invasive, causing economic and Species. “It is important for staff at stores as well as cus- moss balls. They are very small, growing to no more than an ecological damage when released into the wild, and these tomers to always check aquarium plants for hitchhiking or- inch in size, and the individuals found on the moss balls in aquarium products pose a risk of this species being intro- ganisms and to alert store management and not sell or buy Texas were less than a quarter of an inch long. duced into new water bodies in Texas and causing serious plants with mussels, snails, or other organisms attached.” “Petco stores have been working diligently to remove harm. To learn more about zebra mussels and other invasive these products from their shelves and I have informed “Zebra mussels have already been introduced into many species in Texas, visit the TPWD Stop Invasives website. NE Texas AD RATE CAMP • TITUS • MORRIS 20 $ Call to place your ad! Classifieds words 9 903-572-1705 PAYMENTS: each additional Cash • Check • Credit Card word 25¢ POWERED BY: Mount Pleasant Tribune • The Pittsburg Gazette • The Steel Country Bee

HELP WANTED AUCTIONS Join Our Full Time Employee AUCTION TITUS COUNTY Commis- Saturday • March 13 • 10 am Team! sioner, Pct. 2 will be hiring Stone Livestock 730 E. 16th St. (Hwy. 67) for a road hand employee. Mt. Pleasant, TX 75455 We are now hiring for all positions for a new IHOP Applications can be picked TO CONSIGN ITEMS, PLEASE CALL: Restaurant location in Pittsburg, Texas up and turned back to Bill Barton at 940-727-2686 Judge Lee’s office at Ste. Scott Stone at 903-752-3104 General Manager Stone Livestock at 903-575-9099 (must be willing to train in a different location for 6-8 weeks) 200 on the 2nd floor of the Titus County Courthouse. Vehicles • Trailers • Tractors Manager • Shift Leader • Hostess • Wait Staff • Cook Farm Equipment Applications must be Antique Farm Equipment We are a growing company with upward mobility and are looking for turned in no later than Hay Equipment highly motivated, energetic and team oriented candidates! Feeders • Feed Troughs March 8. Cattle Handling Equipment Please visit www.kimscstores.com Tools and click on careers to apply! Naples Apartments Maintenance Posi- This is only a partial listing. tion: Maintenance man needed, must TERMS: Cash, cashier check or have minor skills for plumbing and TACL #B002178C personal check with proper ID. Energetic RECEPTIONIST needed for electrical. Must be able to live on prem- fast paced medical practice. No ises, must have secondary income. Call Barton & Son experience necessary. 936-433-4626. Willing to train on the job for the 903-572-1234 SERVICE ON ALL BRANDS Local Delivery Drivers needed 2 non- Auctioneers Bagwell, TX 75412 • Phone: 940-727-2686 right candidate. Full time. Taking applications & hiring for our air CDL and 2 CDL Kelly Produce Trucking www.bartonandson.com • BILL BARTON #6716 conditioning installation department. 903-632-4437 M-F 8-5pm Northeast Texas Experience preferred, great working Announcements from auctioneer take precedence conditions, above-average pay, ongoing over printed matter in this fl yer and other ads. Interventional Medicine training. Apply today, call for details: Check us out online! No Buyers Premium Contact Jessie at 903-572-9050 Thompson Air Conditioning, 1103 N Washington, CONCESSIONS AVAILABLE Mt. Pleasant, Texas 75455 903-572-1234. TribNow.com

FOR RENT PUPPIES 3BR/2BA Some Puppies for free. 6 weeks old. Part appliances, fenced Red Heeler and part Black Mouth yard, storage B&B Curr. 903-285-5560 building. NO PETS. Apartments $650.00 rent/ 2121 Burton Dr. LAND FOR SALE Mt. Pleasant, TX $300.00 deposit Land for Sale: 297 acres north of 903-204-6839 1 bedroom $400 Bills Paid $480 Winfield. Priced right. Call agent Apartments for 2 bedroom $480 at 903-537-4711 rent in Naples, 2/washer & dryer $540 FOR SALE TX for rent $500 903-572-9123 month. All bills Farm Fresh Eggs 1 dozen free with paid. Call Shawn a minimum order of 2 dozen. We TribNow.com 936-433- 4626. Deliver. Call or text 430-558-9584 SERVICES OFFERED

Interior/exterior painting; carpenter repair. 40 years’ experience. Jeff Taylor 903- 573-0079 Billy Taylor 903-572- 7877 H & S House Leveling; Foun- dation repair, 25 yrs. exp. free est. 903-784-1849 or 903-782-4347. SELL IT in the Classifieds!

March 6, 2021 CLASSIFIEDS TribNow.com • Page 7 NE Texas AD RATE CAMP • TITUS • MORRIS 20 $ Call to place your ad! Classifieds words 9 903-572-1705 PAYMENTS: each additional Cash • Check • Credit Card word 25¢ POWERED BY: Mount Pleasant Tribune • The Pittsburg Gazette • The Steel Country Bee

LEGAL

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept. may conduct prescribed burns from NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING April through June 2021 on the White CLAIMS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF Oak Creek WMA. For additional AUBREY LEE SPENCE information, Call 903-884-3800 or go Notice is hereby given that original to: http://tpwd.texas.gov/landwater/ Letters Testamentary for the Estate of land/wildland_fire_management/ AUBREY LEE SPENCE, deceased, were issued on the 2nd day of March, 2021, in Cause No. P06458, which is pending in NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING the Probate Court of Titus County, Texas, CLAIMS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF to RUBY ANN SPENCE. ROBERT JOE GIDDENS All persons having claims against the AUBREY LEE SPENCE Notice is hereby given that original Estate of the said , Letters Testamentary for the Estate deceased, are hereby required to present of ROBERT JOE GIDDENS, deceased, were them within the time and in the manner issued on the 2nd day of March, 2021, in prescribed by law to: Cause No. P06456, which is pending in Kerry Wootten the Probate Court of Titus County, Texas, Russell & Wootten, P.C. to GLADYS MARIE WALKER GIDDENS. P. O. Box 1135 All persons having claims against the Mount Pleasant, TX 75456-1135 Estate of the said ROBERT JOE GIDDENS, DATED 3rd day of March, 2021. deceased, are hereby required to present NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ISSUE COMBINATION TAX AND REVENUE Kerry Wootten, Attorney them within the time and in the manner CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION FOR THE CITY OF MOUNT PLEASANT, TEXAS RUSSELL & WOOTTEN, P.C. prescribed by law to: P. O. Box 1135 - 204 West Seventh Street The City Council of the City of Mount ment Code, Chapter 271, Subchapter C. Kerry Wootten Mount Pleasant, Texas 75456-1135 Pleasant, Texas, shall convene a meet- The following information is provided Russell & Wootten, P.C. ing at 6:30 P.M. on April 20, 2021, at the to comply with Tex. H.B. 477, 86 Leg., R.S. P. O. Box 1135 Mount Pleasant Civic Center located at (2019). The current principal of all out- Mount Pleasant, TX 75456-1135 NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS HAVING 1800 N. Jefferson Ave., Mt Pleasant, TX standing debt obligations of the City is DATED 3rd day of March, 2021. CLAIMS AGAINST THE ESTATE OF 75455 and during such meeting, the City $15,825,000. The current combined prin- MARY ELLEN MCKELVEY Council will consider the passage of an cipal and interest on all outstanding debt Kerry Wootten, Attorney ordinance or ordinances authorizing the obligations of the City, paid on time and RUSSELL & WOOTTEN, P.C. Notice is hereby given that original Let- issuance of one or more series of interest in full, is $21,143,531. The maximum prin- P. O. Box 1135 - 204 West Seventh Street ters Testamentary for the Estate of MARY bearing certificates of obligation in the cipal amount of the certificates to be au- Mount Pleasant, Texas 75456-1135 ELLEN McKELVEY, deceased, were issued aggregate principal amount not to exceed thorized is $58,000,000 and the estimated on the 2nd day of March, 2021, in Cause $58,000,000, for paying all or a portion combined principal and interest required No. P06457, which is pending in the of the City’s contractual obligations to to pay the certificates to be authorized on Request for Proposals Probate Court of Titus County, Texas, to be incurred in connection with (1) con- time and in full is $82,914,497. The maxi- C. RAY McKELVEY Northeast Texas Community College . structing, acquiring, installing, replacing, mum interest rate for the certificates may (NTCC) District invites all “qualified All persons having claims against the equipping and improving the city’s water not exceed the maximum legal interest professional service firm(s)” to submit Estate of the said MARY ELLEN McKELVEY, and wastewater system facilities consist- rate. The maximum maturity date of the request for Proposals (RFP) responses deceased, are hereby required to present ing of transmission lines, lift stations, certificates to be authorized is May 15, for NTCC’s Landscaping Services them within the time and in the manner storage facilities, retention dams, treat- 2051. The above information excludes for the following solicitation: prescribed by law to: ment plants and necessary street and $5,450,000 in principal of outstanding ob- road repairs and acquisition of interests ligations the City has designated as self- • Request for Proposals (RFP) # RFP- C. Ray McKelvey in land or easements necessary for such supporting and which the City expects 2021-02 5181 S.H. 49 East projects; and (2) paying fees for legal, fis- to pay from revenue sources other than Submit response to: Mount Pleasant, TX 75455 cal, engineering, architectural and other ad valorem taxes, being the City’s Gen- Northeast Texas Community College DATED this 3rd day of March, 2021. professional services in connection with eral Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series (NTCC) Kerry Wootten, Attorney these projects. Such certificates are to be 2016 and Combination Tax & Revenue Attention: Jeff Chambers RUSSELL & WOOTTEN, P.C. made payable from ad valorem taxes and Certificates of Obligation, Series 2020. In- # RFP-2021-02 P. O. Box 1135 - 204 West Seventh Street a lien on and pledge of surplus revenues formation regarding these items may be 2886 FM 1735 Mount Pleasant, Texas 75456-1135 of the City’s waterworks and sewer sys- obtained during business hours from the Mount Pleasant, Texas 75455 tem. The certificates are to be issued, and City’s Director of Finance, 501 N Madison, this notice is given, under and pursuant Mount Pleasant, TX 75455, Phone: 903- By no later than: March 24, 2021 at 2:00 to the provisions of Texas Local Govern- 575-4000, Fax: 903-577-1828. p.m., Central Standard Time (CST) Request for Proposals On the date and at the time for submis- Northeast Texas Community College sion of proposals, responses will be (NTCC) District invites all “qualified NOTICE OF REQUIREMENT TO COMPLY WITH opened and identified by proposer name. professional firm(s)” to submit request THE SUBDIVISION SERVICE EXTENSION POLICY OF However, proposals will not be read for Proposals (RFP) responses for TRI SPECIAL UTILITY DISTRICT aloud. Proposals that arrive after the NTCC’s Pre-Engineered Building for the date and time for submission of propos- following solicitation: Pursuant to Texas Water Code, §13.2502, Tri Special Utility District hereby gives no- als will be considered late and will not •Request for Proposals (RFP) # RFP- tice that any person who subdivides land by dividing any lot, tract, or parcel of land, be opened. 2021-01RFP can be found at www.ntcc. within the service area of Tri Special Utility District, Certificate of Convenience and Necessity No. 10402, in Titus, Franklin, and Morris Counties, into two or more lots or Proposals from respondents may not be edu/about-us/public-notices sites for the purpose of sale or development, whether immediate or future, including withdrawn for a period of one hundred Submit response to: re-subdivision of land for which a plat has been filed and recorded or requests more twenty (120) days subsequent to the Northeast Texas Community College than two water service connections on a single contiguous tract of land must comply date and time for submission without (NTCC) Attention: Jeff Chambers # RFP- with Non-Standard Service Agreement (the “Subdivision Policy”) contained in Tri the consent of the Workforce Program 2021-01 2886 FM 1735 Special Utility District’s policy. Developer. Mount Pleasant, Texas 75455 Tri Special Utility District is not required to extend retail water utility service to a NTCC reserves the right to accept or By no later than: March 23, 2021 at 2:00 service applicant in a subdivision where the developer of the subdivision has failed to reject any or all proposals in whole or in p.m., Central Standard Time (CST) comply with the Subdivision Policy. part, to waive informalities or technicali- On the date and at the time for sub- ties, to clarify ambiguities, and to award Applicable elements of the Subdivision Policy include: mission of proposals, responses will items or groups of items as may be in the be opened and identified by proposer Evaluation by Tri Special Utility District of the impact a proposed subdivision service best interest of NTCC. name. However, proposals will not be extension will make on Tri Special Utility District’s water supply system and payment read aloud. Proposals that arrive after of the costs for this evaluation; Payment of reasonable costs or fees by the developer for providing water supply service capacity; Payment of fees for reserving water sup- Notice to Banks the date and time for submission of ply service capacity; Forfeiture of reserved water supply service capacity for failure Depository Bids proposals will be considered late and will not be opened. to pay applicable fees; Payment of costs of any improvements to Tri Special Utility The Commissioners’ Court of Titus County, Texas District’s system that are necessary to provide the water service; Construction accord- Proposals from respondents may not be hereby notifies all qualified banks that the Court in- ing to design approved by Tri Special Utility District and dedication by the developer withdrawn for a period of one hundred tends to select a Bank Depository for the public funds of water facilities within the subdivision following inspection. twenty of Titus County and for the Trust Funds of the District Tri Special Utility District’s policy and a map showing Tri Special Utility District’s and County Clerks of Titus County at the regular court (120)days subsequent to the date and service area may be reviewed at Tri Special Utility District’s offices, at 300 West 16th, meeting on April 26, 2021. All candidates must comply time for submission without the consent Mount Pleasant, Texas; the policy and service area map also are files of record at the with all applicable state statutes as outlined in the of the Workforce Program Developer. Public Utility Commission of Texas and at the Texas Commission on Environmental application. NTCC reserves the right to accept or Quality and may be reviewed by contacting the TCEQ, c/o Utility Rates and Services To obtain an Application Packet, please visit the reject any or all proposals in whole or in Section, Water Supply Division, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711. homepage of the Titus County website at: www.co.titus. part, to waive informalities or techni- tx.us and click on the Purchasing Link on the left bot- calities, to clarify ambiguities, and to tom section of the homepage, or call 903-572-8101 or award items or groups of items as may Like us on Facebook contact the auditor’s office at [email protected]. be in the best interest of NTCC. Mt. Pleasant Tribune BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S ELECTION, REGION 8 ESC Sealed applications will be accepted on or before April 6, 2021 at 4:30 PM in the auditor’s office at 100 West The following will be confirmed to First Street, Suite 106, Mt. Pleasant, Texas 75455. serve 3 years on the Board of Directors, Monday at 5pm for Region 8 Education Service Center, on Titus County reserves the right to accept or reject in May 28, 2021. whole or in part any application received and to waive Classified WEDNESDAY’S paper any irregularities or formalities in the best interest of Advertisement Margaret Davis, Place 1, representing the County. Bowie County DEADLINES Thursday at 5pm for Dennis Townsend, Place 4, representing Brian Lee Morris County County Judge SATURDAY’S paper Sandra Billodeau, Place 7, representing Titus County Texas Hopkins County

Page 8 • TribNow.com DEVOTIONAL March 6, 2021 Church Directory

Grace Baptist Church Mt. Pleasant Pastor: John Greene John Greene 750 FM 2348 (Union Hill Cemetery) • Mt. Pleasant (903) 572-1376 WORSHIP Sunday Prayer Meeting 10:00 a.m. Sunday Worship Service 11:00 a.m. Following every worship we have a fellowship meal for everyone wanting to attend.

ASSEMBLY OF GOD S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 4 pm Sunday Chris Wigley GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH WELS HARRIS CHAPEL BAPTIST UNION CHAPEL BAPTIST 6788 FM Hwy 115 Scroggins, TX 75480, 903-860-3749, 9AM SS & LIVING TRUTH FELLOWSHIP Bible Class, 10 AM Worship 523 Dunn St.; Jason & Staci Mays, Pastor; W.S. 10:30 am & 6 pm; 1226 CR 3910; Ricky Vestel, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm Pittsburg, L.J. Haskins, Sr., Min. Wed. 7pm HEART OF FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH UNITY MISSIONARY BAPTIST METHODIST DELLWOOD PARK ASSEMBLY OF GOD 7835 N.1402; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am Titus Co. Exten. Bldg.; Pastor Eddie Bratton Jr., S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 BRIDGES CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST Pastor: Cade Rich, Sun. 10:30am & 6pm, Wed. 6:30pm, Tues. prayer HICKORY HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST am; Wed. 6:30 pm 215 CR 1465; Matthew Davis, Min.; WS. 9:15 am S.S. 10:45 am, W.S. meeting 10:00am, Women’s Bible Study & Dinner at 5:45 pm on Chapel Hill Comty;Gary Bass,Min. WHITE OAK BAPTIST 9:30 am Thursdays. dellwoodparkagchurch.com HIGHLAND PARK BAPTIST Rt. 4, White Oak; Charles Burns, Min.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am & 7 FARMER’S ACADEMY CONG. METHODIST FIRST ASSEMBLY OF GOD Tony Lawson, 2801 S. Jefferson; S.S. 9:30 am, pm; Wed. 6:30 pm 2 mi. Hwy. 67 West; Wayne Collier, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 2115 Edwards; Don White, Min.; S.S. 9:30 am, W.S. 10:30 am & 6:30 W.S. 10:45 am & 6 pm; Wed. 6:30pm CATHOLIC pm; Wed. 7 pm pm; Wed. 9 am & 7 pm HILLCREST BAPTIST ST. MICHAEL’S CATHOLIC OMAHA FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH VICTORY CHURCH Memorial & 18th St.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm 1403 E. First Street, Father Ariel Cortes, Weekly Mass: M-F 8am Eng., 204 Senter Ave, Omaha; Rev Jay Barnes, Min.; S.S. 10:40 am, W.S. 102 Fulton St, Pittsburg: Tom Reamm, WS 11 am and 6 pm Wed., IGLESIA TABERNACULO DE LAS BUENAS NUEVAS M-F 7pm Span.; Sat. 5:30 pm Eng., Sun. 7am Span., 9am Eng., 11am 9:30 am, Discipleship Study 6 pm www.myvictorychurch.net Hwy. 49 E. Domingo 10 am Escuela Dominical, 6 pm Serv. Evangelis- Span., 1pm Span. NAPLES FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH FIRST ASSEMBLY OF GOD tico, Miercoles 7 pm; Oracion, Viernes 7 pm Enseñanza, Minister Jose CHRISTIAN 201 Cedar at First; Pastor Jay Barnes; S.S. 10:00 am, W.S. 11:00 am Hwy. 271 S. Bogata; Mark Jones, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 C. Sanchez. GREENHILL UNITED METHODIST pm; Wed. 7 pm FIRST CHRISTIAN 1.7 mi. N. of I-30 on Greenhill Rd., Min. Matthew Davis, W.S. 11 am; IGLESIA BAUTISTA BET EL 105 Redbud; Rev James Rawlins, Min.; S.S. 9:30 am, W.S. 10:30 am FUENTE DE AGUA VIVA TEMPLO CRISTIANO 1320 E. Ferguson; Tim Zepeda, Min.; Escuela Dominical 10 am; SS 9:30 am Youth S. 5 pm; Men Bible Study-Thurs. 5:30 pm; Wed 103 W 16th St, Mt Pleasant, TX 75455, Juan Y Maria Martinez; Hora de Alabanzas 11 am; Estudios Biblicos 6 pm; Estudios Biblicos LOGOS CHRISTIAN .Women’s Bible Study 6:00 pm Escuela Dominical 1:00 pm, Alabanza. 2:00 pm. Martes: 7:00 pm (Miércoles) 7pm 5th & Edwards; Howard Petty, Min., S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 10:40 a.m & 7 ST. ANDREW UNITED METHODIST ST. PAUL AME LIBERTY BAPTIST pm Wed 7 pm 2019 N. Edwards; Rev. Yuri Carralero; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11:00 am; 302 East Seventh; William Kelly, Rev. 210 Daingerfield St.;Naples, Hugh Gibbs, Min.; RENOVACION CRISTIANA Wed. Bible study Wed. 6 pm TALCO ASSEMBLY OF GOD S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6:30 pm Pastor- Jamie Isaac Lopez 103 W. 16th St. Mt. Pleasant 903-285- TENNISON MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST Hwy. 271 South; Lonnie Fortner , Min.; LIBERTY HILL BAPTIST 4791, Sunday Worship 12:45 PM Thursday Worship 7:00 PM Church Street & East 3rd, Reverend Mike Cline, WS: 8:45 am & 10:45 S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am & 6:30 pm; Wed. 7:30 pm Argo Rd.; Bob Griffith, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm CHURCH OF CHRIST am, SS 9:45 am, Wednesday Bible Study (all ages) 7:00 pm TEMPLO CRISTIANO ASAMBLEAS DE DIOS LIBERTY MISSIONARY BAPTIST BLODGETT CHURCH OF CHRIST WEST NEW HOPE UNITED METHODIST 414 N. Jefferson; Juan Garcia, Min.; Oracion: Martes y jueves 9 am, Intersection of Hwy. 127 & 21; Tracey Campbell.; 9278 FM 127, Pittsburg; Larry Black, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & C.R. 1220; Rev. Kristin Bogart; W.S. 9 am; Tues 6 pm Domingo 5 pm; Miercoles: Estudio de la Biblia 7 pm; Sabado: servicio S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 5 pm; Wed. 7 pm 6 pm; Wed. 7 pm MORMON CENTRO DE ALABANZA COOKVILLE CHURCH OF CHRIST CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 919 East 3rd St., Josue F Luna, S.S 1:15pm, W.S 3:00pm, Tues Men, LONE STAR MISSIONARY BAPTIST S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm Women & Children Ministery 7:00 pm, Thursday W.S 7:00pm 2810 W. Ferguson Road; Bishop Ed Covey; Sacrament Meeting 10 am Lone Star Community; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am NORTH JEFFERSON CHURCH OF CHRIST & 1:20 pm(span); SS 11:15 am; Youth Meeting Wed 7 pm BAPTIST MACON BAPTIST 2311 N. Jefferson: SS: 9 am, WS 7pm, Sunday Svc 10 am & 6 pm, Min. NAZARENE ARGO BAPTIST Hwy. 21; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am & 7 pm; Wed. 7 pm Kris Groda and Jeff Whatley 141 CR 3360, Bro. Randll Crawley, Min. S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 MAPLE SPRINGS MISSIONARY BAPTIST NORTH RIDGE CHURCH OF CHRIST JOURNEY CHURCH CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE pm, Wed. 6:30 pm Hwy. 71E; Dwayne Wilson; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am; Wed. 7 pm 212 East Burton Road (I-30 Access Road, SS 9:30 am Assembly 10:30 Hwy. 271 Bypass & McKellar Dr.; S.S. 9:30 am; M.W. 10 am; Wed 6:30 pm BIBLE BAPTIST MONTICELLO MISSIONARY BAPTIST am W.S 6:30 pm 1312 E. Ferguson; David Kealer, Min Farm Road 127 and SW 15; Ronnie Steward, Min. OAK GROVE CHURCH OF CHRIST MONTE ARARAT IGLESIA DEL NAZARENO S.S. 10 am, WS 11 am & 6:30 pm; Wed 7 pm 3 1/2 mi. north of I-30 on Harts Bluff Rd.; S.S. 9:45 am,W.S. 10:40 215 N. Jefferson Mt. Pleasant, Rev. Saul Garcia, Pastor, W.S. 11:00 am, MOUNT GILMORE BAPTIST 7:00 pm Bible Study BIBLEWAY MISSIONARY BAPTIST S. Martin Luther King Ave. & School Street; Herbert Jones, Min., SS a.m, Wed. 7 pm 908 Gibson Ave.; Bertrand Bailey, Min.; S.S. 9:30 am, W.S. 11 am 9:45, WS 11 am, WED 7 pm SHEPPARD STREET CHURCH OF CHRIST PENTECOSTAL BLUNDIS CREEK BAPTIST MT. MORIAH BAPTIST Miller St. at Cash; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 10:45 am & 6 pm ABUNDANT LIFE UNITED PENTECOSTAL FM 127; Lewis Fluellen, Min.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am & 5 pm; Wed. Interim Pastor: Ken Cox, SS: 10 AM; WS: 11 AM & 6 PM; Wed: 6 PM SOUTHSIDE CHURCH OF CHRIST 271 N.; J. P. Burks, Min.; W.S. 10 am & 6:30 pm; Wed. 7 pm; Sat. 7 pm 7:30 pm MT. OLIVE BAPTIST Minister: Drew Nelson, 1220 East Ferguson Rd; Min; S.S. 9:45; W.S. NEW LIFE UPC CIRCLE C COWBOY CHURCH 131 O’Tyson; Kirthell Roberts, Min.; Early Worship: 8:30 am, SS: 9:45 10:30 am & 5 p.m; Wed. 7pm I-30 Service Rd., Mt. Vernon; W. James Anderson, Jr., Min.; S. 2 pm; located at 1757 FM 3417; James Baker, Min.; WS 10:30 am Sunday am, WS: 11:00 am, WS: (Adult) 4:00pm, (Youth) 6:30pm CHURCH OF GOD Wed. 7:30 pm CHOCTAW BAPTIST MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH OF GOD HOLINESS 1310 Alexander; Bro. Dwight Sharp, Min.,S.S. 10 am, S.W. 11 am & 6 Hwy. 67 W.; Frank Stringham, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 5:15 East Third; D.G. Davis, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6:30 pm; Wed. pm; Wed. 7 pm pm; Wed. 7:00 pm HOUSE OF PRAYER 7:30 pm 5 mi. North of FM 1001 in Argo, David Whitfield, Pastor, Sun Svc 10 CHRISTIAN FAITH BAPTIST MT SYLVIA MISSIONARY BAPTIST GREATER HOPE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST am, Sun W.S. 5:00 pm, Wed. 7:00 pm 212 Magnolia; Bro. Michael White, W.S. 10:30 am & 6:00 p.m; Wed. Rt. 8; Michael Thompson, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm; Wed. 1398 N Elsye Ave, Mt. Pleasant, Texas, Pastor: Tony Rundles Bible Study 7:00 pm 7 pm FULL GOSPEL PENTECOSTAL CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY Hwy. 67 West; Apostle L.K. McGill, Pastor; S.S. 9:45am, W.S. 11 am; CONCORD MISSIONARY BAPTIST NEVILLS CHAPEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST 1 block S. of Hwy. 67, Cookville; Joe Cameron, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.s.11 Tues. 7:30 pm; Sat. 7:30 pm Omaha; Nolan Richey, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 10:50 am & 6:00 pm; Harts Bluff Road; Shawn Findley, Min.; S.S. 9 am, W.S. 10 am & 6 pm; am & 6 pm; Wed. 7 pm Wed. 6 pm Wed. 6:30 pm PRESBYTERIAN MT. PLEASANT FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER COOKVILLE FIRST BAPTIST NEW BEGINNING BAPTIST CHURCH 121 White St.; Wendell House, Pastor, 903-920-8201; S.S. 10 am, W.S. FIRST PRESBYTERIAN Hwy. 67E.; Brother Rust, Min.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm 21 County Road 1350, Bill Whitaker, Minister.; S.S. 10:00 am, W.S. 11 11 a & 6 p.; Wed. 6:30 pm 4th & Madison, Rev. Shane Webb, Min., S.S. 9:45 am W.S 11 am am & 6 pm; Wed. 7 pm CYPRESS MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY ADVENTISTS S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm OLD UNION MISSIONARY BAPTIST Sugar Hill; Wesley Vandever, S.S. 10 am, W.S. 6 pm; Wed. 7:30 pm SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST DAMASCUS MISSIONARY BAPTIST 67 E. Roger Oney, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 10:45 am & 6 pm.; Wed. 6:30 pm FIRST CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 302 Lakewood Dr.; Pastor Adrian Solis FM 1734; Chuck Hinson, Pastor; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am Corner of Lee & Choctaw; Pastor: Elder Smith. S.S 9:30a, Sun Sch. Prayer Tues 5:45pm; Saturday SS 9:30am WS 11am EAST NEW HOPE BAPTIST PINEY CREEK BAPTIST 11am,Tues S 12pm &7pm .Wed noon prayer and Bible S. NON-DENOMINATIONAL Rte. 1, Chapel Hill Road; Don Shirley, Pastor; S.S. 10 am 268 CR 1680; C.J. Shelton, Min.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am; Wed. 6:30 pm WHITE OAK CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST 445 CR 1697; Elder Jessie Nelson, Min., SS 9:45 am, WS 11 am, Wed. CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD EAST SIDE BAPTIST E. 8th; Gregory Williams, Min.; W.S. 11:15 am 1808 East First St.; Tommy Milam, Min.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 10:45 am & PLEASANT GROVE BAPTIST 7 p.m Bro.Craig Stuart Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 5 pm; Wed. 6 pm 6:00 p.m; Wed. 6:00 pm CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST COTTRELL CHAPEL CME RIPLEY BAPTIST Talco Bethel COGIC 1104 Searcy Street • Mt. Pleasant, Texas, Pastor Tamica Godfrey-Hill, FARMERS ACADEMY MISSIONARY BAPTIST Sunday School: 10:30 am; Sunday Service: 11:30 am Old Dallas Hwy. 889; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 pm; Wed. 6:30 pm 2760 N. Jefferson; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S 10 am & 6:30 pm; Wed. 6:30 pm 601 E Wilson, Talco, TX 75487, 903-379-2304 ST. MATTHEW BAPTIST CALVARY BIBLE CHURCH FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH EPISCOPAL 411 N. Van Buren, Daniel Souza; S. 10 am • Child care available 2201 Tx Hwy. 49; Dr.Clint Davis, Min.; S.S. 8:15, 9:30 & 10:45 am, W.S. 1317 East 8th St.; J.C. Fountain, Min.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am & 6 9:30 &10:45 am & 6:30 pm; Wed 6 pm pm; Wed. 7 pm ST. MARK’S EPISCOPAL LAMB’S FOLD 205 E. Pecan; Rev. Ethel Channon; Sun Holy Comm. 11am 105 East 16th; Gordon Nelms, Min.; W.S. 10:30 am; Wed. 7 pm FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF OMAHA SNOWHILL BAPTIST 200 Senter; Keith Lauter, Pastor; S.S 9:45 am, W.S. 11:00 am ; Wed 11 mi. east of Mt. Pleasant on Hwy. 49; Dan Hill, Min. GOSPEL CHURCH 114 6:30 pm SOUTH JEFFERSON BAPTIST FULL GOSPEL REVIVAL 114 W. 3rd, Min Williams Ferguson, Wed 6 pm; Sat 11 am GLADEWATER BAPTIST S. Jefferson at Magnolia; Tommy Oglesby, Min.; S.S. 9:30 am, W.S. 501 Gibson; Harold Smith, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am; Wed. & Sat. NORTHEAST TEXAS BIKER’S CHURCH 5 mi. N. on Harts Bluff Rd.; Pastor, Jeff Footer; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am 10:30 am & 6:30 pm, Wed. 7 pm 8 pm 749 E. 16st St. (across from bowling alley); Dominic Crescimanno, and 6 pm, Wed 6 pm SPRINGHILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST Min., W.S. 6:30pm Bible study, Thurs. meal at 6pm & church service JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES at 7pm. GRACE BAPTIST Union Hill Rd., Jon Wisner, Min. 512 Yates; Mt. Vernon, Daniel Ledford, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 11 am SUNSET BAPTIST Public Talk Sun. 10 a.; Bible Study 7 p. HOME & 5 pm; Wed. 7 pm 1407 W. Seventh St.; George W. Rape, Min.; S.S. 9:45 am, W.S. 11 am LUTHERAN Rt. 67, 2 1/2 mi. W. of Omaha; Larry Lakey, Min.; S.S. 10 am, W.S. 3 GRACE TEMPLE MISSIONARY BAPTIST TRINITY BAPTIST GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN, MS pm; Thurs. 7 pm W. Fourth at N. Miller; Rex Newman, Min.; 2830 Ferguson Rd; Bible Study 9:30, Worship Service 11am; Pastor 2820 West Ferguson Rd; Rev. Mike Kimmel; S.S. 9:15 am, W.S. 10:30 am

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March 6, 2021 BUSINESS TribNow.com • Page 9 EDC, Republic Services host annual luncheon

On Wednesday, the Mount Pleasant Economic Development Corporation and Republic Services hosted the annual State of the Economy luncheon at the Region 8 Service Center. Speakers included EDC Executive Director Nathan Tafoya, Mount Pleasant City Manager Ed Thatcher, and Titus County Judge Brian Lee, along with other local business leaders. The Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce thanks these gentle- men for their presentations on Mount Pleasant’s growing community and upcoming projects. Pictured are Thatcher and Tafoya delivering their presentations. COURTESY PHOTO Texas ranks 12th in nation for reported cases of identity theft In the latest Consumer Sentinel Network (CSN) form from your employer. If everything matches, feel report issued by the Federal Trade Commission, free to shred your pay stubs. Then, keep your W-2 Texas ranks No. 12 in the nation for the most re- forms for at least a few years. ported cases of identity theft per 100,000 residents. Marketplace • Keep bank statements and expired insurance poli- Nearly 135,000 Identity theft cases were document- cies for three years ed with those aged 30-39 being the most heavily Issues • Keep tax returns, canceled checks/receipts, and re- targeted group. More than $203 million in total by MECHELE MILLS cords for tax deductions taken for seven years. The fraud losses were reported. The most common IRS has six years to challenge your return if they be- type of identity theft reported was Government lieve that you underreported your gross income by documents or benefits fraud. This aligns with BBB • Insurance documentation. Keep everything in a se- 25 percent or more. reports for 2020 where government/benefits fraud cure compartment for as long as you have the pol- reports increased by nearly 3,000% over 2019 num- icy. Also, save any paperwork regarding unresolved Keep the following items indefinitely: bers. claims/coverage. • All paperwork related to bankruptcy, inheritance “It’s important to be watchful for government • Keep utility, cell phone and similar bills only un- and wills. benefits fraud,” Mechele Agbayani, President and til you receive confirmation that your payment has • Auditor’s reports. CEO of BBB serving Central East Texas, “Particular- been processed. The only exception to this is if you • House/Condominium records: It is a good idea to ly as we are in the middle of tax season and with a are self-employed. Self-employed people should keep keep documents of expenditures related to house/ new round of stimulus checks on the horizon.” these records longer so they can prove any deduc- condominium improvements. Capital purchases Another fundamental way to avoid falling victim tions on their tax forms. that improve or enhance the value of your home to identity theft is to shred all documents which • Keep all loan paperwork until you pay off the loan. when you sell your property may lower your capital contain personally identifiable information. BBB Then shred everything except the document that gains tax. invites consumers to bring documents to be shred- proves you paid in full. • IRA contribution records: If you made a nondeduct- ded to Secure Your ID Day, which will be held on • Find out how much time your bank and/or credit ible contribution to an IRA plan, such as a Roth IRA, Saturday, June19 at BBB offices in Tyler. BBB will cards give you to challenge incorrect statements. keep your records to show that you were already host additional Secure Your ID Days in Jacksonville, Keep them until you are no longer able to challenge taxed for this money. Lindale, and Longview later this year. them. This is typically between 60 days to one year For more information on how to be a savvy con- BBB also advises consumers to have a document after the mistake is made. sumer, go to bbb.org. To report fraudulent activ- retention schedule and offers the following sugges- • Keep pay stubs for one year. Don’t throw away your ity or unscrupulous business practices, go to BBB tions: paycheck stubs until you receive your annual W-2 Scam Tracker.

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Page 10 • TribNow.com SCHOOLS March 6, 2021 Mount Pleasant High School Tiger Dolls bring home more awards After missing out on their second competition and a week of practice due to the weather, the Mount Pleasant High School Tiger Dolls attended their second and final competition of the season on Saturday, February 27 with Showtime International at Lake Ridge High School in Mansfield. The Tiger Doll team earned 9 awards in total: Sweep- stakes (85 and above all on routines), Judges Award (90 and above on all routines), Best in XL Category: Runner Up Military, First place Pom, and First place Hip Hop, Su- preme Pom (highest scoring pom routine), Supreme Hip Hop (highest scoring hip hop routine), Team Champion Circle, and 3rd Place Best of the Best (3rd place out of all teams entering the competition). The Officer squad brought home 10 awards: Sweep- COURTESY PHOTO stakes (85 and above on all routines), Judges Award (92 preme Hip Hop (highest scoring hip hop routine), Officer tenant Nevaeh Bardwell being named a solo runner up and above on all routines), Best in XL Category: Runner Up Champion Circle, and 2nd Place Best of the Best (2nd place as well. Jazz, First place Lyrical, and First place Hip Hop, Applause out of all officer teams entering the competition). The Tiger Dolls will now turn their attention to their Award for Entertainment and Crowd Appeal in Officer Hip First Lieutenant, Madyson Arzate, was named solo annual Spring Show set for April 16-17 in the MPHS Au- Hop, Supreme Lyrical (highest scoring lyrical routine), Su- finalist and runner up Solo Champion with Junior Lieu- ditorium. MPHS Congressional debaters bring Chapel Hill High School senior headed to NSDA home State awards National Tournament February 2021 was an- Cowan was named the other historic moment for 2021 UIL State Congress the Mount Pleasant High Bronze medalist in 5A. School Speech and Debate This was her 2nd appear- team. UIL State Congress ance at Congress State had already been post- and her 4th appearance poned from January to at UIL state meets overall. February due to COVID-19 The finish earned her a 4th concerns. But the resched- state medal, adding to her uled dates of February 14- state championship in In- 15 would have them come formative Extemporaneous face-to-face with the worst Speaking, her bronze med- winter storm Northeast MPHS State Congressional debate team members Ryan Sharp, al in Cross Examination Olivia Nethercutt, senior, placed second in International Extem- Texas had seen in years. Isabella Greco, and Connelly Cowan COURTESY PHOTO Debate, and her 4th place poraneous Speaking at the National Speech and Debate Associ- Preliminaries began medal from State Congress ation’s Yellow Rose District Tournament on Feb. 26. She will com- on February 14 with two in 2020. She will now shift pete at the NSDA National Tournament in June. COURTESY PHOTO MPHS competitors com- her focus to Cross Exam- peting from the MPISD ination Debate. Administration Building “Competing at Congress MP ISD SCHOOL CALENDAR and a third competing from State this year was a unique Week of March 8–13 home under the impending challenge,” said Cowan. “Ev- start of the winter storm ery year, success demands Monday, March 8 TFA State tournament, MPISD and deteriorating road con- hard work and hours of • MPJH Cheer tryout clinic, 4:30- Admin Bldg. ditions. Day one would see research, but this year was 6:00 p.m. • MPHS Cheer open gym, 4:30- forty-three 5A competitors even more difficult. Switch- • MPHS Cheer tryout clinic, 4:30- 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. • Baseball: MPHS @ Frisco representing 25 school dis- ing to an online format lim- • Track: MPHS JV @ Mount tournament (away) tricts from across the state its interaction with your Pleasant JV Invitational (home) • Track: MPHS Varsity @ Mount of Texas. Representatives competitors and removes • MPJH Boys & Girls @ Maverick Pleasant Varsity Invitational were split into three groups nonverbal cues which can Jr. Relays in Marshall (away) (home) of 14-15, known as Cham- be so important to public • Golf: MPHS Boys & Girls Varsity Friday, March 12 @ Tempest bers. After two preliminary speaking. Delaying finals • Deadline to place senior ads in rounds, the top five com- also created an unforeseen Tuesday, March 9 MPHS yearbook • CDC zoom Parenting Support • MP Speech & Debate @ online petitors from each chamber roadblock that we adapted Group for Children with TFA State tournament, MPISD would advance to day two, Connelly Cowan with her UIL State Bronze medal COURTESY PHOTO to. I’m so grateful to walk Disabilities, 5:00 p.m. Admin Bldg. known as Super Congress. away with a bronze medal. • MPJH Cheer tryout clinic, 4:30- • MPJH Cheer tryouts, 4:30 p.m. At the end of day one, seniors Ryan Sharp and Isabella I’ve dedicated so many hours to this event and was truly 6:00 p.m. • MPHS Cheer tryouts, 6:30 p.m. Greco and junior Connelly Cowan made program histo- passionate about the performance I gave. I want to thank • MPHS Cheer tryout clinic, 4:30- • Baseball: MPHS @ Frisco 6:00 p.m. tournament (away) ry, as it was the first time Mount Pleasant would advance Coach Martinez for his support to our team as well as my • MPHS Talent Show, MPHS • Softball: MPHS JV & Varsity @ all of its representatives to Super Congress. parents for their dedication to my success.” Auditorium, 6:30 p.m. Pine Tree (away), 4:30 p.m. At 7:45 a.m. on the morning of day two, the UIL post- Sharp and Greco earned 5A Congress State finalist • Softball: MPHS JV & Varsity vs. • Soccer: MPHS Boys JV & Varsity poned Super Congress due to the winter weather and standings, landing them in the top fifteen 5A Congress Marshall (home), 4:30 p.m. @ Texas High (away), 5:30 p.m. loss of power in many areas of the state. It would be competitors in the state. This was the third appearance • Tennis: MPHS JV @ Sulphur • MPHS Girls JV & Varsity vs. Springs Texas High (home), 5:30 p.m. a full week of waiting before the representatives would at state for Sharp and the first for Greco, capping off out- *SR NIGHT* compete in State Finals. On February 23, the three standing UIL Congress careers. Both will shift their focus Wednesday, March 10 • MP Speech & Debate @ online Saturday, March 13 MPHS finalists resumed competition at the MPISD Ad- to Extemporaneous Speaking for the district meet later TFA State tournament, MPISD • MP Speech & Debate @ online ministration Building on a beautiful, sunny day where in March. Admin Bldg. TFA State tournament, MPISD the high would reach 77 degrees, a far cry from the The next major events for MPHS Speech and Debate • MPJH Cheer tryout clinic, 4:30- Admin Bldg. sub-zero temperatures of just a week prior. At the end are the online National Qualifying tournaments on Feb- 6:00 p.m. • Baseball: MPHS @ Frisco of day two, six competitors would be awarded UIL State ruary 26-27 and March 5-6, the online Texas Forensic • MPHS Cheer tryout clinic, 4:30- tournament (away) 6:00 p.m. medals and one would be awarded the Top Presiding State tournament on March 11-13, and the online UIL CX MPISD Spring Break is March Officer gavel. Debate State tournament on March 19-20. Thursday, March 11 15-19 • MP Speech & Debate @ online Mount Pleasant Honor Roll

Hannah Anderson Drew Dyke Abigail Gutierrez Takahashi Silvia Lopez Christopher Moreno Kiara Rundles Brayant Chavez Kennady Ebarb Angelina Hernandez Mason Majors McKinsee Oviedo Conlee Zachry Ella Cross Sophie Greco Stephanie Hernandez Nathaniel Martinez Veronica Palencia Michelle Zelaya 9 Caroline Currey Owen Green Erik Liera Evelyn Monreal Cecilia Phan

Manoa Bagsic Devin Castaneda Kylie Humber Lizeth Navarro Esmeralda Ramirez Amy Vazquez Reese Ball Natalie Crockett Camdon Johnson Cecilia Olmos Nayeli Rivera Michelle Vazquez VanessaJane Bayna Paulina Diaz Chelsea Maldonado Jazmine Palma Jose Trejo Raul Vazquez Clayton Brison Perla Guzman 10 Collin Moss Kimberly Pina Melissa Vasquez Jack Welborn Madison Carpenter Ethan Harbour

Rossy Banegas Samuel Brown Connelly Cowan Jair Moreno Johnathan Sandate Rosario Bello Henry Chappell III Mary Kait Heeren Luiz Olvera Micah Tucker Anna Claire Wall 11 Lainy Blackstone Parker Colley Taylor Hubbs Noemi Rios Ariana Vazquez

Madison Adams Juan Canada Isabella Greco Naydelin Martinez Anahi Ramirez Megan Adams Julissa Dominguez Azalia Guzman Arianna McClain Maribel Rodarte Ashleigh Amerson Isabel Dorantes Faith Hampton Alexia Neely Meagan Rogers Taryn Thurman Lesly Atrisco Hernandez Maiko Estrada Maria Hernandez Litzy Patino Patricia Roque Jaycee Woods Alicia Bello Gaven Fife Ghyles Lias Jasmine Pina Miguel Segura Carson Zachry 12 Ashlyn Brooks Allie Fincher Faith Logan Sashi Poudel Ryan Sharp Lily Burrows Brianna Garcia Reese Loving Alejandra Ramirez Eliyah Tagg

March 6, 2021 SPORTS TribNow.com • Page 11 Tarrant wins #300

Clark and Houchin show off their catch. COURTESY PHOTO

Head coach Jeremy Tarrant with team. Front Row (L-R: Amariya Miller, Morgan Hill, Conlee Zachry, Casey Jones, Ella Cross) Back Row (L-R: Genesis Roberson, Jalissa Alvarez, Carson Zachry, BreAsia Hargrave, Jeremy Tarrant, Paris Beard, Jordyn Hargrave, Khia Shaw, CiCi Keeton, Harris Brownlee COURTESY PHOTO

By DREW BARKLEY

Head Lady Tiger softball coach Jeremy Tarrant recently won his 300th game at the helm of the one of the most successful programs in East Texas. Tarrant has been the head coach at Mount Pleasant for the past 11 years and has also had stops in Pittsburg and Ferris. His overall cumulative record is now 304-172-6 and while at Mount Pleasant has won 188 games. “I’m blessed to have had the success I’ve had throughout Slone and Miller show off their haul. COURTESY PHOTO my career, “ said Tarrant. “I’ve had the opportunity to coach some very talented players which in turn makes for some very good teams. Without the hard work and Tiger Fishing reels dedication of my players, none of this would have been possible.” The Lady Tiger softball team is off to an ex- in top ten finishes cellent start this season with a record of 6-2, 1-0. COURTESY PHOTO By DREW BARKLEY The Mount Pleasant High School Bass Fishing Team Lady Tiger Softball wins first district game continued its season in the first tournament of the spring semester at the Texas High School Bass Asso- By DREW BARKLEY ing three times. Carson Zachry, Amariya Miller and ciation (THSBA) tournament on Lake Bob Sandlin on Paris Beard banged out two hits apiece in the game. February 27. The Lady Tigers made a statement in a command- Zachry and Miller each doubled in the game with First for the Tigers, the team of Mya Clark and ing 11-1 mercy-rule win over Texas High in the open- Zachry scoring three times. Beard scored twice and Makayla Houchin placed 9th out of 91 teams with 2 ing game of 16-5A play on Tuesday. Mount Pleasant had two stolen bases. Jordyn Hargrave had a 2-RBI fish weighing 5.98 lbs. The team of Cody Slone and pounded out 14 hits as a team and scored in every single in the win, while Conlee Zachry chipped in Clayton Miller finished just behind in 10th place with inning to move to 1-0 in the district standings. Se- with a single. The Lady Tigers will travel to McKinney 3 fish weighing 5.84 lbs. Ethan Cota, Bryce Bartlett, nior pitcher BreAsia Hargrave held the Texas High for tournament action this weekend. Mount Pleas- Zane Phillips and Tyler Welborn also competed for offense to only two hits and at the plate, Hargrave ant will take on Rockwall Heath, Celina, Abilene, the Tigers but were unable to pull anything in before went 4-for-4 with a double, solo home run, and two North Forney, Denton Guyer and McKinney North. time ran out. RBIs. Freshman Ella Cross went 3-for-3 in the game They will resume district play on March 9th at home The MPHS anglers will be on Lake Tawakoni on with a double, home run and three RBIs while scor- versus Marshall. March 27. Team members will be fishing for a chance to make it to the state tournament in May. Lady Devils Fall in Regional Semis Lady Tigers crush Pleasant Grove, 14-3 By DREW BARKLEY

The Mount Pleasant Lady Tigers softball team opened their season recently with the plenty of work left to be done after last year’s shortened season. A sound win against the Hawks was just what the Lady Tigers needed to jump start their season and work towards claiming a district championship. BreAsia Hargrave dominated on the mound for three no-hit innings as Mount Pleasant jumped out to an 8-0 lead. Amariya Miller led the charge at the plate going 3-for-5 including two doubles and three RBI. Morgan Hill Callie Thompson shooting over a defender COURTESY PHOTO Mackenzie Espinosa getting ready for offense COURTESY PHOTO also recorded multiple hits and drove in three while Jalis- sa Alvarez scored four runs for the Lady Tigers. By MATT GARRETT When you break down the game by putting the second and fourth quarter together, Chapel Hil played MP 14, Pleasant Grove 3 The #13 Chapel Hill Lady Devils fell to #9 Gunter this Gunter to a 24-24 tie. It was just the big runs in the first past Saturday in the Regional Semi-Finals. The Lady and third quarter that got them in the end. Chapel Box Score Devils played well but it just seemed that all the good Hill finished the year 24-5 and ranked #13 in the TABC R H E breaks went the other way. They didn’t have bad luck, Rankings. MP 2 0 6 2 1 3 - 14 13 1 they just didn’t get any good luck. The first quarter saw “This team really did overachieve this year if you PG 0 0 0 2 1 0 - 3 5 2 things going back and forth and then Gunter went on look at it completely,” said Coach Matt Garrett. a huge run that the Lady Devils were unable to stop. Going into this season the Lady Devils returned Pitching: At the end of the first quarter, Chapel Hill found them- one starter (Posey), four from last year’s bench (Hall, WP – BreAsia Hargrave (1-0) – 3 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 1 K, 1 BB selves behind 9-26. The second quarter saw the patten Thompson, Baker, Ellis), and welcomed four new play- Casey Jones – 2 IP, 3 ER, 5 Hits, 0 K, 1 BB clamp down defense that the Lady Devils fans are used ers to first-year varsity play (Hart, Espinosa, Tomp- Conlee Zachry – 1 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 2 K, 1 HP to seeing, but Chapel Hill was just not able to convert kins, Manning). Three of those first-year varsity play- the rebounds and steals to a bunch of points. Chapel ers were freshmen and had never seen a high school Carson Zachry – 1-4 (single), 2 Runs, 1 BB Hill would win the second quarter 7-6 but still were be- game in previous experience. Ella Cross – 1-2 (Double), 2 Runs, 1 Sac, 1 SB, 2 BB, 2 RBI hind at half-time 16-32. “Getting to the Regional Tournament again and BreAsia Hargrave – 1-3 (Single), 1 Run, 1 Sac, 1 BB, 2 RBI The third quarter again was a back and forth battle having a shot to move further in the state tournament Jalissa Alvarez – 2-3 (2 Singles), 4 Runs, 2 SB, 2 BB, 1 RBI and then once again Gunter went on a size-able run was the team goal from the beginning” Coach Garrett Amariya Miller – 3-5 (Single, 2 Doubles), 1 Run, 3 RBI that the Lady Devils couldn’t match. Gunter would go continued. “Reaching four Regional Tournaments in Morgan Hill – 2-4 (Single, Double), 1 Run, 2 SB, 1 BB, 3 RBI on to win the third quarter 8-15 and increase their lead a row with different sets of girls is truly an amazing Conlee Zachry – 2 BB, 1 Run to 24-47. The final quarter was a scoring frenzy. The accomplishment. Most schools would be happy to get Casey Jones – Single Lady Devils began hitting shots left and right, but so did there once. This group of girls did an outstanding job Paris Beard – 1 BB, 1 SB Gunter. In the end Gunter would win the quarter 17-18, this year and I am so proud of them!” Coach Garrett Jordyn Hargrave – 2-2 (Double, Single), 1 – SB, 1 RBI but to Chapel Hill’s dismay, Gunter won the game 41-65. concluded. TribNow.com Mount Pleasant’s #1 News & Information Source

Page 12 • TribNow.com SPORTS March 6, 2021 ACCIDENTS HAPPEN. BODY SHOP Fixing mistakes... Hwy. 67 East Mt. Pleasant 903-572-7591 That’s what we do! Eight Lady Tigers named Tigers’ season ends with near upset of #1 Lancaster to All-District team

AMIAH AUNESTI

COURTESY PHOTO / JOHN WHITTEN By DREW BARKLEY on the basket. The Tigers used a 10-2 run to open the quarter to get within 6 points as multiple Lancaster Lofty goals and expectations are what have pushed players began to foul out. Key three-pointers by Hines the Tiger basketball program to where it is today. and Xzavier Brown would keep the Tigers within strik- So when the buzzer sounded on Tuesday night with ing distance in the closing minutes. Down by four and Mount Pleasant on the short end, to say disappoint- under fifteen seconds left on the clock, Payton Chism ment set in would be an understatement. The Tigers drove the length of the floor to score a layup all while took #1 state-ranked and perennial powerhouse Lan- going down in a heap with leg cramps. The Tigers, AUTUMN CONLEE caster to the brink but fell just short losing 58-56 in however, had no timeouts remaining and had to let front of a raucous, Mount Pleasant-strong crowd. things play out or foul right away. A frantic inbound The game opened with Lancaster posting a quick ensued with Zaveion Chism-Okoh stealing the pass 7-0 run that looked like it might bury the Tigers early. but was unable to get a shot off and time expired. But Mount Pleasant responded with an 8-0 run on a Chism finished the game with a team-high 15 points three-pointer by Payton Chism, free throws by Xzavi- to go along with 4 rebounds and 3 steals. Brown had er Brown, and another long-range bomb launched by a monster double-double with 13 points and 11 re- Jakybrien Hines that would put the Tigers up 8-7 with bounds and also added 2 steals. Jakybrein Hines fin- a couple minutes remaining in the quarter. The teams ished in double figures with 10 points and 4 rebounds. would exchange baskets with the Tigers pulling a Other scorers were Miller McCrumby 6 points, Chism- slight advantage at 14-11 at the end of one. The second Okoh 6 points, Kelcey Morris 5 points, and Edward quarter saw both teams go back and forth with the Wilder 1 point. ELLA JORDYN Tigers gaining their largest lead of the night at 25-19 The Tigers finish the season with their only loss midway through the frame. But the Lancaster would posting an impressive 27-1 overall record and unde- make another run to retake the lead. The Tigers would feated district championship. Mount Pleasant was respond to stake a 30-29 margin into the locker room. also named Bi-District Champions, Area Champions, The third quarter was one Mount Pleasant would Regional Quarterfinal Champions, and Regional Semi- like to forget as Lancaster came out strong to outscore finalists and named nine players to the District 15-5A the Tigers 22-7 in the quarter and taking a command- All-District Team. In the rankings, the Tigers finished ing 51-37 into the final frame. But just as the Tigers at #9 according to the Texas Association of Basketball had done all season, they never quit and began to Coaches, #6 according to Hoopinsider.net, and #3 ac- slowly chip away at the deficit with constant attacks cording to MaxPreps.

KENDALL PARIS Tigers’ Chism-Okoh inks with link year prep By DREW BARKLEY Senior guard Zaveion Chism-Okoh recently signed a With a district championship and playoff victories letter of intent to head to Link Year Prep, located in under their belt, the Mount Pleasant Lady Tiger basket- Branson, Missouri, next season. Chism-Okoh led the ball team had eight players earn honors for their per- Tigers in scoring at 16.2 points per game and was the formance on and off the court this season. Paris Beard Tigers main scorer from the outside with 51 three- earned the District 15-5A Offensive Player of the Year point makes. He was also called upon many times to award by posting 18.3 points per game, 5.3 rebounds, stop the opposing teams’ best player with his length 2.8 assists, and 6.4 steals. Autumn Jackson and Jordyn and ability to guard the ball. Chism-Okoh helped lead Hargrave both garnered 1st Team All-District. Jackson a Tiger team that finished as one of the top 16 teams led the Lady Tigers in rebounding at 5.6 per game and in the state and garnered District MVP honors. In his was the second leading scorer at 7.8 points per to go playing career on varsity, he had an overall record of along with 2.9 steals. Hargrave posted 7.4 points per 76-22 and secured two district championships and game. Second Team All-District honors went to Kend- two regional tournament appearances all while post- all Walker and Aunesti Brannon. Walker averaged 4.3 ing 871 points and 178 steals. Link Year Prep is a program focused on offering points per game and 2 steals per game while Brannon COURTESY PHOTO posted 3 points, 2 boards, and 1 steal per game. Fresh- players a year to continue improving their basketball man Ella Cross received Honorable Mention All-Dis- skill while also going through the Link Year program that of an elite college basketball program. Their goal trict by knocking 13 three point baskets on the year. itself. The Lions matchup with college teams across is to develop both character and talent for players that Five Lady Tigers earned Academic All-District by post- the Midwest and holds a high standard that matches desire to play at the next level. ing at least a 92 grade point average during the season. Those players are Ella Cross, Conlee Zachry, Kendall Walker, Amiah Thornton, and Aunesti Brannon. Lady Devils land many on the All-District Team

Espinosa Hall Hart Posey

The Chapel Hill Lady Devils finished Honorable Mention - Kaylee Tomp- second place in district this past sea- kins & Lilly Ellis son and advanced all the way to the Regional Tournament Semi-Finals. “It is always great to see our girls bas- The All-District team was littered with ketball do well in district and beyond. I Chapel Hill players. know for a lot of our students and parents, their expectations were high, and Offensive Player of the Year - Katie even though it was the last run for our Hart (Soph) seniors, they were with a great with a 1st Team All-District - Kinly Posey & group of girls,” said principal Marcus Sarah Hall Ysasi. “They can cherish those moments 2nd Team All-District - Callie Thomp- on and off the court from now on.” Thompson son & Mackenzie Espinosa