Issuu

VOL 5 ·ISSUE 16 PRSRT STD US Postage PAID Permit #60 WINNIE, TX

Snow Blankets Area Again

By Wade Thibodeaux For the second time

this calendar year, snow has covered Walker

County and has (contd on page 6)

Annual DU Banquet Held at Fairgrounds

This piece of art was sold in the live auction at the DU Banquet last Thursday.

By Wade Thibodeaux The annual Ducks Unlimited banquet was held at the Walker County Fairgrounds last Thursday, February 11, 2021 and a large crowd was on hand to celebrate and enjoy the activities. Gun raffles, door prizes, pie auctions and live auctions were all part of the activities. A dinner was served as part of the entrance price and plenty of fellowship was available for the (contd on page 6)

Thursday February 18, 2021

Hornets Basketball Undefeated in District

The Hornets hold up the banner after winning the District Championship in varsity basketball.

By Wade Thibodeaux The Huntsville Hor-

nets varsity basketball through the District team swept their way competition to claim the undefeated District title last Saturday evening in a contest against the Nacogdoches Dragons. The guys got off to a delayed start this season because many of the players were still playing football when basketball season started, but they quickly pulled it together and went right into District competition. They are now in the playoffs and will play Hallsville on Friday, February 19, 2021 with that location and time not Huntsville Hornets Varsity Basketball Coach Jay available at presstime. Oliphant gets the final snip of the net after the Hor- Go Hornets!!!!! nets won the District Championship.

Thursday February 18, 2021

Community

31. Curved like a foot 34. Mother Earth to Ancient Greeks 35. Truck amounts 37. “____ the land of the free...” 38. Hitler’s Third 39. Capri, e.g. 40. Walked 42. Grande, e.g. 43. Remove scales 45. Accustomed, two words 47. Like arctic air 48. More capable 50. Tibetan priest 52. *Part of a whole number 55. Grinding tooth 56. Stare amoTHEME: MATH 101 Solution on page 11 rously ACROSS 13. Like a Druid, 21. Mini, midi or 57. Hoofbeat 1. ¿ la mode e.g. maxi sound 5. Westminster 15. Verify 22. Longnosed 59. Garlic mayo broadcaster 16. Flair fish 60. Kick out 8. Lamb’s mom- 17. Avoid paying 23. *Round #23 61. Gossamer ma taxes Down 62. *Pi’s second 11. Depression 18. *Same as 26. Adverb dedigit drifter power in math rived from zone 63. High ____ 12. Alternative 20. Surrender 30. Miner’s 64. “Brave New to truth territory bounty

Walker County Press-Page 2

World” drug DOWN 1. Half a particular dance 2. Past tense of heave 3. Type of mountain goat 4. Body six feet under 5. Harvest helper 6. Small goose 7. Abe’s coin 8. Exclamation of surprise, archaic 9. Do like fly fisherman 10. Between northeast and east 12. One who denies 13. Popular pie nut 14. *Sum divided by count 19. Southern cuisine pods 22. Apollo to ancient Greeks 23. *Three-dimensional object 24. Not poetry 25. Mends 26. *Whole number between -1 and 1

27. Scottish landowner 28. In accordance with law 29. Search engine pioneer 32. Pigeon’s home 33. H in British HMS 36. *Kind of point 38. Set to zero 40. Cunning 41. Pleasing to the ear 44. Ticks and mites, taxonomically speaking 46. Short for Fredericas 48. Lock horns 49. Popular craft wood 50. Under a fig leaf? 51. Gel producing plant 52. *0.3048 meters 53. Pasta with ____ and alio 54. “Cheers” regular 55. Cultural Revolution leader 58. Money in Myanmar

Walker County Press-Page 3

Business Directory

Thursday February 18, 2021 2801 Old Houston Road 936-435-0303 www.tomorrowspromise.com email: tpms1@msn.com fax: 936-730-8278

TEXAS MEDIA CORP Huntsville

Wade Thibodeaux (936) 581-5161

P.O. Box 149

Huntsville, Tx 77342

wade@txmediacorp.com

Auto

Tomorrow’s Promise

Covid may have changed things, but children still learn the same way! Our hours have changed to 5:00am - 6:30pm

Home

Texas Tidbits From Historic Tours of Texas

Commercial

Sam Houston was baptized twice?

Life Health Office: 936-295-6000 Email: huntsvilleoffice@ rolloinsurance.com Steven R. Gregory - Agent www.rolloinsurance.com 1010 University Ave. Huntsville, TX 77320

Did you know...?

The rest of the answer can be found at historictoursoftexas.com

Thursday February 18, 2021

Arrest Report

Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home -All Prearranged Services Honored -Prearranged Funeral Sales

Joetta’s

Women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories Home Decor and gifts Tyler Candles and Glamour Wash

office: 936-661-6125 www.joettas.com

Walker County Press-Page 4

1700 Normal Park Huntsville, TX 77340

Located in West Hill Mill

936-291-7300

From the office of Walker County Sheriff

Clint McRae Thirty-Two individuals were arrested and booked into the Walker County Jail between Monday, February 8 and Friday, February 12. Continued indict-

ments from last week are also as followed. The individuals named have been magistrated and formally informed of the charges against them.

However, just because these individuals were arrested and magistrated does not mean they are guilty of the crimes they are charged with committing. Also not

everyone charged with a crime is alleged to have committed the crime in Walker County, but perhaps was simply arrested in Walker County on

outstanding warrant(s) while in Walker County. In instances in which individuals were arrested on outstanding warrants, their orig-

inal conviction and the reason they are on probation or parole, if available, is included in parenthesis set.

Walker County Press-Page 5

Arrest Report

Thursday February 18, 2021

Personalizing Your Events...Since 1957 www.huntsvilleheartfieldflorist.com office: 936-295-5448

Corner of 16 and 31 Sam Houston Ave.

Thursday February 18, 2021

Community

Snow Blankets Area (contd) caused a large disruption in everyday life. Most businesses were closed due to employees not able to get to work and then not much commerce would have been taking place anyway because most people were home with kids who were not in school or they just didn’t want to get out and brave the elements. Traffic on the roadways was mostly non existent except for the few brave souls who ventured out as sightseers, or those who absolutely needed to go somewhere. Temperatures dipped down into the single digits a couple of nights with teens a common occur-

rence for most of the week. Six to eight inches of snow was a common situation across the County with children delighting in the building of snowmen and adults wondering what happened to the Springtime weather that we had the week before. Temperatures were not predicted to rise much above freezing until the weekend with another chance of snow forecast for Thursday. Infrastructure was certainly challenged as Entergy reported rolling blackouts for almost all of their customers and Sam Houston Electric Coop having prolonged outages in Dodge and

other areas. Many area businesses had sold out of necessary survival items like generators, electrical cords, insulation, etc., but propane distributors and bottle services reported great sales. Mother Nature threw us a curve this week in Texas, but just hold on as we will be sweating in 100 degree heat before too many months and this Winter will be one that is talked about for generations......”You remember that Winter of ‘21??? You know the time that it snowed twice, maybe three times”.

Annual DU Banquet Held (contd) attendees. Col. Kevin live auction and kept last item was sold. McMillian served as the crowd involved in the auctioneer for the the auction until the

Kats Add Morris To Coaching Staff Sam Houston head coach K.C. Keeler announced the addition of former West Texas A&M defensive coordinator Joe Morris to the Bearkat coaching staff on Tuesday. Morris will oversee

Baptist: -University Heights Baptist Church worship services every Sunday at 9:30am and 10:45am -First Baptist Church Hunts-

the Bearkat defensive ends and replaces Tim Daoust who recently left to join the coaching staff at East Carolina. He spent the last two falls as the defensive coordinator at West

ville every Sunday bible study at 9:30am, worship at 10:50, and 6:00pm Catholic: -St. Thomas the Apostale Catholic Church Rosary

Texas A&M after spending six seasons at Fort Lewis College, including two seasons as the head coach. In his first season as the defensive coordinator in Canyon, the Buffs ranked in the

top 50 in the nation in fumbles recovered, interceptions, red zone defense and tackles for loss. Eric Collins and Frank Honang earned first team all-Lone Star Conference honors while Hayden Dennis also earned allLSC accolades after recording the eighth most tackles in program history, 118. In 2018, Morris coached seven allRMAC players including Suli Tukumoeatu, whose three fumble recoveries were the 10th most in the nation. In 2017, Fort Lewis finished the season winning four of their last six games, including an upset victory over

No. 12 CSU-Pueblo, 35-24, at Ray Dennison Memorial Field. He was promoted to defensive coordinator in December 2015 after previously serving as the defensive line coach under John L. Smith for three seasons. Morris spent the 2010 season as the head coach at New Mexico Highlands followed by two seasons at Colorado State as a graduate assistant where he worked with the linebackers and defensive line. He began his coaching career at Fort Lewis in 2006 where he served as the defensive line coach for a team that reached the postseason for the

first time in program history, winning the Dixie Rotary Bowl to finish 7-4. He then spent the next three seasons as the defensive coordinator for FLC where his 2008 defense ranked fourth in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference in pass defense and produced all-American linebacker Mark Meng, who led the RMAC in tackles. The Lafayette, Colo. native graduated from Fort Lewis in 2005 where he was a fouryear starting linebacker and captain. He also earned AllRMAC honors during his junior and senior seasons.

Join the Walker County Historical Commission, Sam Houston Memorial Museum, City Council, and the City of Huntsville Tourism Department for the annual Texas Independence Day and General Sam Houston’s Birthday

celebration on March the life of Sam Hous2nd! ton on his birthday where an anonymous Every year, the day person leaves his fakicks off with a coffee vorite meal of raw reception at the Walk- oysters and coffee at er County Museum the base of his grand Gibbs-Powell House. headstone. Members From there, guests of the student body, meet at Oakwood faculty, staff and adCemetery to honor ministration of Sam

March 2nd Events Include Texas Baptism

Church Services

at 5:00pm and 5:30pm (English) every Saturday and every Sunday at 7:45am (English), 10:45am (English, and 12:30pm (Spanish)

Walker County Press-Page 6

Methodist: -First United Methodist Church worship every Sunday at 8:30am, 9:45am and 11:00am

Presbyterian: -First Presbyterian Church Huntsville classes every Sunday at 9:15am and worship at 10:30am

Non-Denominational: -The Ark Church. 10:30 am service. Loman’s Student Center, 1717 Avenue J. Lead Pastor - Luke Cunningham. 936-463-8416

Thursday February 18, 2021

Community

Houston State University follow the university’s ROTC members in the traditional march to Sam Houston’s grave from the Old Main Pit, located near Austin Hall on the campus grounds. The gravesite ceremony will also include the SHSU ROTC Color Guard and Ri-

fle Team, special musical selections and speakers, the laying of the wreaths by dependents of Sam Houston, and the much anticipated “Baptized a Texan” ceremony. Participants of the “Baptized a Texan” event kneel in front of Sam

Over 340 volunteers participated in the 2021 Annual AdoptA-Beach Winter Cleanup that took place on February 5 and 6, 2021. Volunteers worked together to clean a total of 28.5 miles of beach and

bay area. The two-day trash cleanup event resulted in over 8,900 pounds of trash being removed, leaving our Texas beaches clean and beautiful for wildlife and the community alike to enjoy.

Houston’s memorial and get dabbed with pond water from the Texas-shaped pond on the Sam Houston Memorial Museum grounds and receive a certificate, t-shirt, and gift bag from the City of Huntsville Tourism Department. Immediately following the graveside ceremony is a luncheon hosted by the Walker County Historical Commission and a “Toast to Texas” and birthday cake at the Sam Houston Statue and Visitors Center, 7600 SH 75 South, in the William Hodges Educational Building at 12:30 p.m. To register for the luncheon, log on to HuntsvilleTexas.com and click on the Tx Independence Day tab. For more information, contact the staff at the Sam Houston Statue Visitor Center at 936-291-9726 or VCenter@HuntsvilleTX.gov.

Adopt-A-Beach Winter Clean Up

Sixty-three volunteers helped clean South Padre Island on Friday and collected 1,512 pounds of trash. Hundreds of other volunteers cleaned up areas along Padre Island National Seashore, Cole Park,

Port Aransas, North Corpus Christi Beach, Packery Flats, and Aransas Pass where they collected 7,468 pounds of trash. All volunteers were required to wear a mask, social distance from separate parties, and bring their own gloves as a COVID-19 precaution. Volunteers came primarily from South Texas, including: Brownsville, Donna, Edinburg, Laguna Vista, McAllen, Mission, Pharr, Port Isabel, Rancho Vie-

Walker County Press-Page 7

jo, South Padre, Corpus Christi, and the Coastal Bend area. Texas volunteers also traveled from Austin, Dripping Springs, San Antonio, Kerrville, Palacios, Athens, Frisco, Fulshear, Livingston, Richmond, Raymondville, Alton, Victoria, and Beeville. There were even snowbird volunteers from Wisconsin, Ohio, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska. Texans who are not able to attend the cleanup can help keep

our beaches clean by making a tax-deductible donation online at www.TexasAdoptABeach.org. There are several different Adopt-A-Beach sponsorship levels ranging from $25 to $25,000, allowing both individuals and corporations to contribute to this major cleanup effort. To learn more about the Adopt-A-Beach program, visit TexasAdoptABeach. org and follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Community

Thursday February 18, 2021

Community Calendar

The Huntsville Public Library will reopen to the public on Monday, October 26, 2020, under the modified hours of 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, following the guidance of City officials. The facility, located at 1219 13th Street, will only be able to accommodate 50 patrons inside the

building at one time. Per Governor Greg Abbott’s Executive Order 28, all persons must wear a mask unless they are under the age of 10 or have a medical condition. Citizens will also be able to take advantage of the library’s book sale which will be also reopened. Computer access will be available on a first-come, firstserved basis with

limited use to social distance. In light of the safety of staff and citizens, personalized computer assistance will be offered on a limited basis. Unfortunately, the ever-popular meeting rooms and study room reservations will not be available, and the library’s reading furniture will be inaccessible. For more information, call 936-291-5472.

Obituaries

Eddie B. Hutchison III On Wednesday February 9th, 2021, Eddie B. Hutchison III went to be with his lord and savior at the age of 58. Eddie, growing up known as lil’ Eddie, was born September 5th, 1962 in Liberty, Texas to Eddie B. Hutchison Jr. and W. Jene. After graduating Trinity High School, Eddie received his Associate degree in Civil Engineering at TSTI. Eddie returned home to Trinity to help his father with the family company, Hutchison Construction. The passing of Eddie’s father and the birth of his daughter Laci, rekindled

Eddie’s dreams to follow his father’s footsteps and pursue Law Enforcement. Eddie started his LEO career with the Harris County Sheriffs Department in 1992, after a brief time with the Houston Metro Transit Division he accepted a position with Walker County Sheriffs Department. While serving Walker County, Eddie submitted his application to Texas Department of Public Safety. Eddie would graduate from TXDPS academy at the age of 33, where he began a distinguished career, just over 22 years that included, Texas Highway Patrol, Criminal Investigations Division and Polygraph Examiner. Eddie retired from TXDPS on August 16th, 2018. Retirement would be short lived after when he moved from League City, Texas with his wife Janet back to Huntsville, Texas to be closer to friends, fami-

ly and his two grandsons Keaton and Luke LeNorman. Eddie returned to the WCSO and finally the Walker County District Attorney’s office where he served as an investigator until his death. From an early age Eddie and his father shared a passion and hobby for cars, this was a hobby that Eddie embraced his entire life and shared with his wife, daughter, grandsons, and any random person who was driving something he liked. In addition to fast cars, Eddie had a passion for good music, fast cars, and had the impeccable ability to break anything mechanical that was working just fine. Eddie enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was elated to have built a new house next to his best friend and cousin Frank Robinson. Frank and Eddie often spoke of the future and how they would spend

their days taking their kids and grandkids on new adventures and share their love of the outdoors, classic cars and tractors. Eddie was preceded in death by his father, Eddie B. Hutchison Jr., his brother Walter Scott Hutchison, his great grand parents Walter Thomas Riggs and Ida Mae and beloved dog Kaci. Left to cherish his memory are his mother Jene Hutchison, wife Janet, daughter and son in law, Laci & Ryan LeNorman, Grandchildren Keaton & Luke LeNorman, Brother & Wife, Bradley & Ruth Lynne Hutchison, Nephews: Tyler Hutchison (wife Kaylee), Austin Hutchison (wife Jenna), Great nephew & niece Nathan & Addison, along with his cousin Frank Robinson & daughter Grace. As well as a host of aunts, nephews, cousins, friends and first responder family. Eddie B Hutchison III, loved by many, disliked by some and hated by few. A distinguished public servant with a hero’s heart. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude and love to the TX DPS, Walker County Sherriff’s Office, Walker County Constables, Huntsville Police Department, Huntsville Fire Department, Walker County EMS and the Walker County District Attorney’s office for their support, love, and prayers. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to Eddie’s place of prayer, Faith Lutheran Church, in his name. www.faithhuntsville.org Luke 10:20 “Rejoice in

Walker County Press-Page 8

the Lord because your names are registered as citizens of heaven.”

Fred Daniel Cross Fred Daniel Cross, LTC Retired Army born in Louisville Kentucky December 14, 1954 and passed away on February 12, 2021. He is preceded in death by father Brigadier General Fred William Cross. He is survived by wife Cynthia Harrison Stroble Cross, Mother Stella Francis Cross, brother Ronald Eugene Cross and sister-in-law Elizabeth Cross, and stepmother Darlene Yoder Witten Cross. He is also survived by stepchildren Kenna Stroble Spades (Michael), David Stroble (Ashley), and Han Stroble (Lyndzie). His delight was in his grandchildren Kaila, Taylor, Aiden, Harrison, Sebastian, Meadow, and Brady who brought sunshine into his life. Dan was an Eagle Scout, a Sig EP from Western Kentucky University, a faithful TDCJ employee, and former Military Science professor and ROTC instructor at Sam Houston State University. He was an excellent writer and scholar with Bachelor and Master Degrees from Western, A Mater of Theology from Austin Presbyterian Seminary, and a Doctor of Theology from

Slidell Baptist Seminary. Dan loved his Lord Jesus Christ, The United States of America, his family and friends, and his beloved Kentucky. “My Old Kentucky Home” and “It Is Well With My Soul” were two of his favorite music pieces. One of his favorite pastimes was to listen to his wife Cynthia Play the first few notes of a song and tell her the title and the artist. A Special thank you” is extended to all who prayed for his health these past few years and lovingly took care of him. Dr. Victor Hsiao, HMH, Creekside, Avalon Place, and Heart to Heart Hospice. He is at peace with his Lord and Savior. Condolences to family may be made at www. shmfh.com.

Paul Ricky Hastings On the 31st of August in 1958, Katie Hastings would give birth to her one and only son: Paul Ricky Hastings. As the eldest brother to his two sisters, Jackie Williams and Roberta Robertson, Ricky was raised in Los Angeles, California by his single-mother, his grandparents, and his adoring uncles who took on the responsibility of father. In his youth, Ricky attended St. Bridget’s Catholic School, Paul Revere Mid-

Local News

Thursday February 18, 2021 dle School, & Palisades High School where he would develop his love for sports. In the summer of 1975, Ricky went to visit his aunt, uncle, and cousins in Hardin, Texas and never looked back. With approval from his mother, Ricky moved in with the Davis Family who became a second family to him. Along with his new siblings, Calvin, Carolyn, and Floyd Jr., Ricky was loved and nurtured by Floyd Sr. and Elogia Davis as if he were one of their own. Continuing his education in Texas, Ricky graduated from Hardin High School where he lettered in football & track and would later be recruited to Sam Houston State University to play wide receiver for the Bearkats. After proudly wearing the #17 jersey for four years, Ricky graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in education in 1982. Ricky began his teaching career at Windham School System where he teached & coached offenders inside the prison for over 30 years. After teaching with the Huntsville Independent School District at Montgomery High School, Ricky would retire only to work part-time at Gulf Coast Trade Center. With all of his accom-

plishments, nothing in this world could replace the joy that Ricky felt on October 14, 1985, when his one and only son was born: Brandon Hastings. The love that he had for Brandon was incomparable. He did an impeccable job at raising Brandon to be a strong educated black man. While other young men knew Ricky as a teacher, mentor, or as “Coach Hastings,” Brandon will always remember him best as “my Dad.” Paul Ricky Hastings was a deeply spiritual man who was always eager to share Bible scriptures with anyone & everyone at any given time. With his unwavering faith in God & love for education, you would usually find Ricky engaged in a debate with a sometimes less enthusiastic party. He believed that it was his calling to provide leadership and guidance to young men and women in the areas of education, athletics, teamwork, life goals, and skill development. Despite the shock of his departure, family and friends take comfort in knowing that he was able to positively impact youth and incarcerated individuals until his death. Paul Ricky Hastings is survived by his loving and adoring wife, Inez Hastings, and his only

son, Brandon Hastings. He is survived by his mother Katie Hastings, and his two sisters, Jackie Williams (Byron) and Roberta Robertson (Kenneth Sr.) and their children: Kenneth Robertson Jr., Cameron Robertson, Byron Williams, and Mariah Williams. He is survived by his father figure, Floyd Davis (Elogia) and a host of his cousins, whom he loved and cherished as siblings: Calvin Davis (Cathy), Caroline Oliphant (Ricky), Floyd Davis Jr. aka “Man” (RoseJean), and his cousin/twin Donald Paul aka “Mano” (Jean). He also leaves behind numerous other family members in the St. Julian and Paul families, and a host of friends he maintained throughout his life. For 62 years of his life, Paul Ricky Hastings was a kind, god-fearing man, a caring father, an affectionate husband, and a loving son. He was also a loving brother, cousin, nephew, and uncle, and a respected teacher, mentor, friend, and will be remembered as such by the lives and hearts that he touched. So when you reflect on your last conversation with Ricky, whether it was years, weeks, or the day before his passing, remember his last words before ending every conversation: “I love you.”

Sam Houston Memorial

Funeral Home 1700 Normal Park Huntsville, TX 77340 936-291-7300

Walker County Press-Page 9

Land Office Launches Te x a s D e f e n s e Ta s k F o r c e

Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush announced the formation of the Texas Defense Task Force within the General Land Office with the mission to identify federal overreach and fend off threats to the Texas oil and gas economy. The move comes less than two weeks after Governor Abbott’s order for state agencies to begin preparing to protect Texas’ energy industry from the crippling effects of federal

overreach seen in the first weeks of the Biden Administration. As the oldest agency in the state, the General Land Office has a constitutional duty to protect and defend Texas’s public and the mineral-rich lands set aside for Texas’s school children. “Texans have a deep-rooted history of defending our livelihoods, and we have every intention to carry on this proud tradition. The unprecedented pace at which the Biden Admin-

istration is attempting to wipe out jobs through executive orders will be met with the full force of the law,” said Land Commissioner George P. Bush. “The Texas Defense Task Force is prepared to aggressively pursue every legal avenue to slow down and stop this alarming onslaught of executive orders and defend the hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs and our economy at large.” The Texas (contd on page 11)

Rusty Chippy Hippy Vintage & Antiques Show (8th Annual) March 13-14 Walker County Fairgrounds Huntsville Texas Sat 10-5 Sun 10-4 $7 admission good for both days Kids 12 & under free. Climate controlled. All indoors. Rain or Shine. CDC guidelines in place. 936-661-2545 or huntsvilleantiqueshows@gmail. com www.huntsvilleantiqueshow.com Follow us on FB & Instagram

Thursday February 18, 2021

Local News

Walker County Press-Page 10

Covid-19 Update by Darren Grant

While coronavirus cases continue to trend downward across the state and nation, it was another rough week for Walker County. Outside of the prisons, almost one person per thousand is testing positive each day, which adds up quickly. We have maintained this rate since the New Year, more or less. In my first column of 2021, I said to “treat the next six weeks as some of the most dangerous of your life,” and I meant it. Nonetheless, I remain hopeful about March. While our area is ahead in Covid infections, we are behind on vaccinations.

My Facebook feed is full of people looking for vaccines, and finding them, sometimes--usually to our south. About 2,400 Walker County residents have received their first shot of the vaccine, and about 1,500 have gotten the second shot, too. Every day I hear that someone got themselves an appointment. Still, most East Texas counties are doing better than us. Some are doing twice as well. I am not sure what is going on. With all the correctional officers we have, who need that shot right now, we should be doing above average. At press time,

however, there are exactly zero doses available around here. More are on their way—4,200, to be exact. That will make a big dent. If you have a chance to get the vaccine, for crying out loud, seize it. If you don’t, you are going to feel stupid saying no right now and then yes a few months from now after everyone has had it. There are no serious downsides that I am aware of, and big upsides. To put things simply, these vaccines strengthen your natural defense system against Covid. They reduce your chance of catching it, and even if you do, they keep the infection milder. The bottom line is simple. People who get this vaccine are not dying of Covid. This is no accident. The approved vaccines have all proved their worth in trials involving tens of thousands of people. It is a careful process that is run by dedicated scientists. I think you can place your trust in that.

Moore For Your Money by Ken Moore

Last month, I lauded the gift of making a fresh start in the new year and offered some tips to help with personal assessment to steer your path to improvement. One very important tip was setting goals and making a plan for the new year. Remember, goals should be SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based. It’s always good to have a clear idea of why you are saving and spending. Set goals that get you excited and then give it everything you’ve got. Here are financial goals to build a strong foundation in the coming year. 1. Create a financial plan. A financial plan is not just for those with financial advisors or tons of money. It is a plan for everyone, to document the details of your goals and how you will reach them. Your plan begins with “What do I want my life to look like a year from now?” and is completed by your goals and objectives in priority order. 2. Save for emergencies. Saving for emergencies should be at the top of your list. Having an emergency fund for unexpected events helps protect you from a financial crisis. Most financial experts recommend your

savings covers three to six months of expenses. If that seems overwhelming, start with saving $500 then $1,000 for emergencies. Given the economic uncertainty around us, this goal will provide much needed stability. 3. Maintain to a budget. The best way to manage your finances is with a budget. There are many tools available to help you set and track to a budget. Budget worksheets are available free online or in Excel templates. You may choose to track your budget through an app or by printed forms. The monthly cash envelope system is another option that many have found helpful. Envelopes are separated with cash designated for the different line items in your budget. Be sure to review your budget every month. 4. Pay off debt. Getting into debt is easy, getting out can be hard work. Start small if needed by paying off your smallest debt. Or you may decide to pay off debt with the highest interest rate or highest monthly payment. The debt snowball method is another option that includes paying off the smallest balance first then rolling that monthly payment into the next smallest debt to progressively

work through your debt. 5. Save for retirement. To secure your future, you need to save for retirement. And the earlier you start saving, the more money you will have in the future. If you have an employer sponsored plan, be sure to participate. Our bank offers options to start your retirement savings and we can help you determine how much you need to save to retire by a certain date. 6. Purchase a home or save for a down payment. Buying a home is a big move in your financial life, one that builds wealth. But a home is more than a financial goal, it is the beginning of building a legacy and being able to leave something behind for your family. If you are planning to buy a home this year, we can show you how much you can afford, how much down payment you need and see estimated monthly payments. With all the challenges of 2020 behind us and with our hopes that 2021 is not a repeat, the reality is that the future is uncertain. However, I have found that just by setting goals—be it reading financial books, adopting healthy habits, taking a trip—I am much more likely to achieve them.

Walker County Press-Page 11 Let go of the emotions and fear of last year and lead with your head, lead with a plan and at least

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five financial goals. All of us at Anahuac National Bank are available to help you achieve the financial

ProRodeo Tour Finale Heads to Salinas

goals you have set. We’re always on your side beThe ProRodeo Tour Finale lieve in the power of comwill play a bigger role than munity. ever before when it pays out

Texas Defense Task Force (contd)

Defense Task Force will be led by Commissioner Bush and will partner with other private entities to pose legal challenges to the Biden Administration’s policies that directly impact Texas. The Biden administration is already responsible for a record-setting 45 executive orders, actions, and

memorandums that include halting construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline, rejoining the Paris Climate Accord, and pausing new leases for oil and gas drilling on federal lands. A recent analysis shows that nearly 120,000 Texas jobs are at stake by 2022 should the ban be made permanent.

Thursday February 18, 2021

The oil and gas economy is fundamental to Texans’ independent way of life and is critical to our state’s success. Commissioner Bush has drawn a line in the sand, with a series of lawsuits to be announced in coming weeks.

$500,000 on the final weekend of the season. The Tour Finale will move to California Rodeo Salinas, Sept. 23-26 for the 2021 season and will crown the ProRodeo Tour champions. The half-million-dollar payout on the season’s final weekend will play a pivotal role in catapulting athletes into the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. “This is what the ProRodeo Tour Finale is all about,” PRCA CEO George Taylor said. “Not only will these talented athletes be crowned Tour champions, but a num-

ber of competitors will also book their trips to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.” The Top 24 competitors in each event in the ProRodeo Tour Standings advance to the Tour Finale and will compete for their share of $500,000. “We’re incredibly excited to be the host for the ProRodeo Tour Finale,” Salinas President Dave Pedrazzi said. “California Rodeo Salinas is steeped in ProRodeo history and having the Tour Finale here will only add to that great tradition.” In addition to bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull

riding, breakaway roping will be held at the Tour Finale. The Tour Finale will air on The Cowboy Channel and will stream on the PRCA on Cowboy Channel Plus App. For more information, visit cowboychannelplus.com. The ProRodeo season ends Sept. 30. The Top 15 athletes in the PRCA | RAM World Standings in each event will qualify for the Wrangler NFR. The 111th anniversary of the California Rodeo Salinas was originally scheduled to take place July 15-18 but was postponed following a recommendation from the California Rodeo’s COVID-19 Response Committee.

Thank you Walker County for allowing me to service your auto body needs for the past 20+ years. Come see me at my new location! 2011 Sycamore Ave, Huntsville, TX 773405322, United States Huntsville, TX 77340-5322 (936) 439-4545 www.nelsonamayascollision.com

All in

suran claim ce proce s ssed!

Walker County Press-Page 12

Lifestyle

Sunday Observations by Christy

I know, I am single. What observation could I possibly have of the day for couples? Well, maybe age has taught me a thing or two that I can share. Did you all know that a simple Christian Priest named Valentine, fought so hard for love in marriage, that he defied a dictator that had ruled marriage illegal, and secretly performed marriages of soldiers before they went off to war. The tyrant Claudius, had deemed

that marriage and love was the reason military recruitment was down, so if he forbade it, that would solve his problems. Yet it didn’t. As we all know, love will prevail. Secret ceremonies were performed until it was discovered and Claudius sent Valentine to his death. While imprisoned and awaiting execution he fell in love with a blind woman, and the story has it he wrote her a sonnet from the ink of violets, and the

words restored her vision. Clubbed to death the next day he was eventually named a Saint, with February 14th being chosen as the date to honor him. Because it is the date in which lovebirds begin to mate. But Valentine never had his love story. He died prior to being able to. But he died so that others may love. He put others before himself. Not just his family, he showed love and grace to those of his community that needed it. He provided the sanctity of marriage at a time it was forbidden. Made me wonder, would any of us defy and face death, for something as simple as the love of others? With no personal gain from it? The world we are in is so angry, so violent, so hell bent on being right, that we have lost the simple joy found from loving others. From letting others love who they want. From thinking outside of our own comfort zone, and just realizing love is love. Period. I don’t care if you are talking about loving your significant other, your

siblings, your friends, your parents, your family, or strangers on the street. We have one job on this earth. Love one another. On this Valentine’s Day, more than ever, we need to make a conscious effort to get back to loving one another. Is it easy? NOPE. Love never is. It takes

Thursday February 18, 2021

work. It takes some compromise. It takes open minds. It takes agreeing to disagree. It takes effort.It takes......loving one another more than we wish to hate. It really is that simple. Happy Valentines peeps....I hope your day has been filled with love. Be it from your 4 legged babies,

or your humans. We all need it. We crave it as much as we crave oxygen. If you are reading this, know I love you. Know you are important to me. And know we can change this world, if we only decide to implement more love.........than hate.

WOODS, WATERS, and WILDLIFE

TEXAS WEATHER

By John Jefferson

Maybe l should stick my hat around the door on a stick to see if anybody is going to take a shot at it since I’ve been saying Texas has the best winters in America. The forecast is now calling for a low temp of one degree above zero, Fahrenheit! Broken limbs and sometime entire trees litter the countryside, broken by the weight of ice that formed during rain the past few days as the temperature fell like an anvil dropped off the roof. But it won’t last.

You’ve still got time to “walk in a winter wonderland” If you’re so disposed. If not, do as the old saying goes, and just “stick around; it’ll soon change.” And when it does, there’s plenty of outdoor activity to help us over the cold weather, cabin fever, pandammit. For starters, this past weekend was our family February solstice celebration – Valentine’s Day and Anniversary rolled into one, although a few days apart. My plans, before I read the forecast, included booking a room at Canyon of the Eagles and taking the

morning cruise with Vanishing Texas River Cruise to see (and photograph) bald eagles on Lake Buchanan. The nearly four-hour excursion boat trip costs about $50/person and will take you up the scenic lake shore where the eagles spend their winters. There aren’t many days left before they head back north, so you’d better call quickly: (512) 7566986. When I mentioned it to her, Vicky’s response was, ”Are you crazy? You obviously haven’t seen the weather forecast! Even if the boat does go out in this weather, it’ll be unbearable!”

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And she’s from Minnesota. If you call them, ask if the eagles are still there. They’ll give an honest answer. Their boat has an indoor cabin with restrooms and an outdoor viewing area. Another wildlife viewing opportunity that will exist for a few more weeks, is Capt. Tommy Moore’s Whooping Crane Tour out of Rockport. There are plentiful whoopers on the Texas Coast, now, and Capt, Tommy is an excellent birder. His boat is equally equipped and comfortable. His phone

number for reservations is (877) - 8924737. Reservations are required. The cranes usually head back north in early April. For the adventurous hunters, February is probably the best month for varmint hunting and a good one for hog hunting. The coyotes and bobcats are more active and respond to calls, both electronic and mouth blown. And who knows – you might even call up a mountain lion, especially if you are in south or west Texas. Coyotes, on the other hand, are found

Lifestyle throughout Texas – including my neighborhood (although shooting there is prohibited). Many ranchers are anxious to remove a few song dogs before their calves start hitting the ground due to coyote predation. County Ag agents, game wardens and TPWD wildlife biologists are good sources of recommendations for ranchers to contact about varmint hunting. You will need a hunting license and some kind of caller. I’ve had success with Burnham Bros. electronic callers.

Thursday February 18, 2021

“Low-Cal Christianity”

With the winter storm approaching, everyone was encouraged to conserve energy. So as I complimented the fine breakfast Dana had made us, she looked at me with a smile and said, “So what time would you like your ‘other’ meal today?” “Evening, morning, and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He will hear my voice.” (Psalm 55:17) Dieting from God’s word does not conserve spiritual energy; it results in “low-cal” Christianity. We used to wait for a norther before slaughtering a hog. But the mid-February weather took care of cooling. The Operation Brass Monkey weather was around or below freezing for several days. Hog hunting was made more difficult, however, since stalking across ice-covered weeds was noisy. Photo by John Jefferson.

Danny R. Biddy, Chaplain for Fellowship of Christian Cowboys and Chambers County Sheriff’s Office

Lifestyle

Thursday February 18, 2021

Disclaimer: This column is the opinion of Publisher Wade A. Thibodeaux and may contain subject matter on a variety of topics, but usually contains humor of some description. An occasional serious thought may be thrown in to entice the reader to think.

I’m sitting here typing out this column because quite frankly, I have nothing else to do this evening. Normally, I could go out to get something to eat, maybe grab an adult beverage, or simply go shopping at one of the local businesses, but not today. It’s about to get dark outside and I’m worried about frozen plumbing, generators, gasoline for the generator, heat lamps, and whether or not the electricity in the house will fail. You see, it’s the 14th of February, Valentine’s Day, and it’s 28 degrees with a light dusting of snow and ice on the ground. That’s right.....snow and ice.....the second time this Winter and actually, the second time this year (2021), that we have had snow and ice on the ground. The roads are probably passable, but I’m not going to risk it because there is probably no place to go that is still open because of the snow and ice. Besides that, every Government official from the Governor on down to the Mayor has issued Emergency Declarations and asked peo-

ple to stay off the roads because help may not be able to get to you. I usually try to abide by the request of Government officials and I really have no place to go, therefore I’ll just stay home. Now, snow in Southeast Texas is pretty rare and to have snow twice in one year has got to be a record. On top of that, the forecast is calling for another round of snow in a couple of days and if that happens I’m going to start making sure that I’m right with God because it has to be some sort of sign that things are headed towards the end of the World. Three times with snow on the ground in one Winter would be unheard of, unimaginable, hard to comprehend, and could possibly get me to thinking that maybe there is something to all of this global warming stuff.......no, no, wait a minute, I think that snow and global warming are opposites. Anyway, something is up and I’m not sure what’s going on. My Dad would tell me of one of his employees

that would talk about us (The U.S.A) putting all of those spaceships in outer space and that’s what was causing the weather to be all crazy. Now, that was back in the 1960’s and 70’s, some 50 or so years ago, but maybe he was on to something. Think about it.......if the Moon can influence the tides in the oceans, then all of that hardware that we have put into orbit could be causing some sort of magnetic imbalance. Everytime that we launch a satellite, we are going to have an extremely hot Summer or a crazy cold Winter. I’m going to need all of you folks to give up your Directv and Dish Network so that they will recall those satellites and we can get back to a constant 70 degrees year round. And also, all of you who have put your deposit down for that $4 Million ride to the International Space Station should just forfeit your deposit and cancel all of those trips. We have to have some relief here folks. Now, one of my editors for the papers lives in Denver, Colorado

and she thinks that we are crazy for shutting everything down every time that we get a few inches of snow because a foot or two of snow is rather common for those folks up there and they still seem to find a way to get to work, school, and everywhere else. I explain to her that we are simply not equipped for snow and ice the way that they are up there

Walker County Press-Page 14 and she just laughs, but in reality, she understands because she is from Southeast Texas and she knows exactly what I’m talking about. Anyway, you guys may think that I’m crazy as well after you read this week’s column and all of my hairbrained theories, but hey......I had to have something to write about and I felt like with all of the craziness going on in

Washington, D.C. that you folks may have wanted a little lighter column this week. I figured that you may as well laugh at me with all of those crazy ideas and maybe that will relieve some of your cabin fever. Besides that, I don’t really believe all of that crazy stuff......or do I????? Till next time, I’m..........Wade in the Shade.

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