Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Ore City, New Diana School Busses Will Get Emisions Retrofits

ISD's will receive grants to install equipment that will reduce emissions from school bus diesel engines.

Students riding New Diana or Ore City buses will soon get a bit of fresh(er) air. Both ISD's have asked for, and will receive money to retrofit school buses from the Texas Clean School Bus Program.

The program, offered by the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality, is aimed at improving student and bus driver health by reducing the amount of pollutants they breath in while boarding and riding the bus.

According to information provided by the TCEQ, diesel exhaust contains small particles, known as fine particulate matter (PM). PM can easily pass through the nose and throat, penetrate deep into the lungs and pose serious health risks, including aggravated asthma and allergies. Some studies suggest that long-term exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer.

The information also says that children may be more susceptible to this pollution because they breathe more air per pound of body weight when compared to adults. In addition, as children’s respiratory systems are still developing, they are more susceptible than adults to environmental pollution.

To counter the risks, the grant money is to be used for the installation of any combination of the following devices:

* Diesel Particulate Filters - devices that collect particulate matter in the exhaust stream. Used with the correct fuel, these filters can reduce organic compounds, and carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases by 60 to 90 percent.

* Closed Crankcase Filtration Systems - devices that allow a diesel engine’s crankcase to be closed and use an air filter to trap oil droplets, carbon, traces of wear debris, and particles that are smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter. Blow-by gas emissions can be as much as 25 percent of the total emissions from a diesel engine. These systems may be more effective at reducing children’s in-cabin exposures to pollutants than control systems fitted into the exhaust systems alone.

* Diesel Oxidation Catalysts - devices that use a chemical process to break down pollutants in the exhaust stream into less harmful components. Diesel oxidation catalysts can reduce emissions of particulates by 20 to 40 percent, hydrocarbons by 50 percent and carbon monoxide by 40 percent.

* Partial Flow-Through Filters - tailpipe filters that can lower diesel particulate matter emissions by 70 to 75 percent. These can also reduce total vehicle emissions by up to 80 percent when paired with a closed crankcase filtration system.

The program does place limits on funding, based on the devices the ISD elects to install, and how many buses will be retrofitted. Closed crankcase filtration systems may receive up to $800, diesel oxidation catalysts up to $1,500, partial flow-through filters up to $6,000, and diesel particulate filters up to $8,250. These caps are per device and include installation costs.

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Monday, December 29, 2008

FDA Warns Consumers About Tainted Weight Loss Pills

Agency seeks recall of products that pose serious health risks

PRESS RELEASE, Dec. 22, 2008 -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is alerting consumers nationwide not to purchase or consume more than 25 different products marketed for weight loss because they contain undeclared, active pharmaceutical ingredients that may put consumers’ health at risk.

The tainted weight loss products are:

Fatloss Slimming
2 Day Diet
3x Slimming Power
Japan Lingzhi 24 Hours Diet
5x Imelda Perfect Slimming
3 Day Diet
7 Day Herbal Slim
8 Factor Diet
7 Diet Day/Night Formula
999 Fitness Essence
Extrim Plus
GMP
Imelda Perfect Slim
Lida DaiDaihua
Miaozi Slim Capsules
Perfect Slim
Perfect Slim 5x
Phyto Shape
ProSlim Plus
Royal Slimming Formula
Slim 3 in 1
Slim Express 360
Slimtech
Somotrim
Superslim
TripleSlim
Zhen de Shou
Venom Hyperdrive 3.0

An FDA analysis found that the undeclared active pharmaceutical ingredients in some of these products include sibutramine (a controlled substance), rimonabant (a drug not approved for marketing in the United States), phenytoin (an anti-seizure medication), and phenolphthalein (a solution used in chemical experiments and a suspected cancer causing agent). Some of the amounts of active pharmaceutical ingredients far exceeded the FDA-recommended levels, putting consumers' health at risk.

These weight loss products, some of which are marketed as “dietary supplements,” are promoted and sold on various Web sites and in some retail stores. Some of the products claim to be “natural” or to contain only “herbal” ingredients, but actually contain potentially harmful ingredients not listed on the product labels or in promotional advertisements. These products have not been approved by the FDA, are illegal and may be potentially harmful to unsuspecting consumers.

The FDA advises consumers who have used any of these products to stop taking them and consult their healthcare professional immediately. The FDA encourages consumers to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before purchasing weight loss products.

“These tainted weight loss products pose a great risk to public health because they contain undeclared ingredients and, in some cases, contain prescription drugs in amounts that greatly exceed their maximum recommended dosages,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, FDA. “Consumers have no way of knowing that these products contain powerful drugs that could cause serious health consequences. Therefore FDA is taking this action to protect the health of the American public.”

The FDA has inspected a number of companies associated with the sale of these illegal products, and is currently seeking product recalls. Based on the FDA’s inspections and the companies’ inadequate responses to recall requests, the FDA may take additional enforcement steps, such as issuing warning letters or initiating seizures, injunctions, or criminal charges.

The health risks posed by these products can be serious; for example, sibutramine, which was found in many of the products, can cause high blood pressure, seizures, tachycardia, palpitations, heart attack or stroke. This drug can also interact with other medications that patients may be taking and increase their risk of adverse drug events. The safety of sibutramine has also not been established in pregnant and lactating women, or in children younger than 16 years of age.

Rimonabant, another ingredient found in these products, was evaluated, but not approved by the FDA for marketing in the United States. The drug, which is approved in Europe, has been associated with increased risk of depression and suicidal thoughts and has been linked to five deaths and 720 adverse reactions in Europe over the last two years.

Health care professionals and consumers should report serious adverse events (side effects) or product quality problems to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail, fax or phone.

* Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
* Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 available at: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm and mail to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
* Fax: (800) FDA-0178
* Phone: (800) FDA-1088

Information for consumers can be found at:
http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/weight_loss_products.htm

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Saturday, December 27, 2008

DPS Targets Drunk Drivers Over The Holidays

DPS troopers will increase patrols during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays in an effort to make holiday travel safer on Texas roads.

PRESS RELEASE, Dec. 22, 2008 -- DPS troopers will increase patrols during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays in an effort to make holiday travel safer on Texas roads.

Of special concern, is drinking and driving during the holidays. Troopers also will focus on speeders and seat belt violators. All available troopers will be on patrol from Wednesday, December 24 through Sunday, December 28, and again on Wednesday, December 31 and Thursday, January 1.

During the Christmas and New Year’s holidays last year, DPS troopers issued a total of 28,000 citations and 14,000 warnings, including 919 DWI arrests, 19,612 speeding tickets and 3,379 safety restraint violations. DPS statistics suggest tickets and drunken driving arrests by troopers double during holiday enforcement periods.

“The best present you can give to yourself and your loved ones is to make sure you arrive safely at your holiday destination—most traffic deaths are preventable,” said interim DPS Director Stanley E. Clark. “We feel our efforts, in conjunction with increased enforcement from other agencies, will make the holidays just a little bit safer. DPS prefers voluntary compliance, but we write citations and arrest drunk drivers to save lives.”

DPS offers the following advice as gifts to the traveling public:
* Drive with courtesy; it’s contagious. Remember, it’s the holidays!!!
* Slow down—especially in bad weather, construction areas and heavy traffic.
* Don’t drink and drive; get a designated driver.
* Buckle up everyone in the vehicle.
* Keep cell phone chatter to a minimum, and avoid texting.
* Avoid drowsy driving.
* Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained.

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Friday, December 26, 2008

Amber Alert Update - Erika Camacho Found


Erika Camacho has been found and returned. Her boyfriend remains wanted and at large.

See the full BeyondMissing update.

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Upshur And Local ISD's Not As Transparent As They Could Be

Texas Comptroller Susan Combs takes the measure of online financial reporting by counties, and finds Upshur to be one among many counties not posting all of it's records on the web.

Texas counties are not legally required to post financial records online. Under the "Open Records" law, county financial information is available to the public, in paper form, upon request. Some counties go a step further though, and post the information online, making the information far easier for the public to access.

That open approach is known as transparency, and it makes it easy for citizens to examine documents, question decisions, root out inefficiencies and hold officials accountable for the way tax dollars are spent.

Texas Transparency Check-up is a website launched by the Comptroller earlier this year to gauge just how open and user friendly each county in Texas is.

The site looks online for a county's budget, financial report and check register.

According to the site, 109 counties currently post no records online, and only 3, (Collin, Grayson and Tarrant) post all three record sets. Upshur posts it's budgets and financial reports, joining the majority of counties that post some records, but not check registries.

Another website, Texas Budget Source, tracks the financial postings of the state's Independent School Districts. Like counties, online posting is not a legal requirement for school districts.

While fairly comprehensive, the site is in error in several regards:

  • It reports in error that Harmony does not post it's check registries.
  • It reports in error that Union Grove does not post check registries. The ISD posts budgets, financial reports and check registries in it's "Board Book" Agenda Packets.
A search of that site for Upshur County ISD's reveals that our local school districts can, for the most part, be judged fairly transparent.

Union Grove ISD leads the pack, posting all three record sets. Ore City and Harmony follow by posting their budget and monthly check registers.

Union Hill post only it's budget. New Diana has a budget site, but the posting is outdated.

No financial records could be found on either Gilmer or Big Sandy's website.













Upshur ISD Web Presence And Financial Postings
ISD NameWebsiteBudgetsFinancial ReportsCheck Registeries
Ore CityWebsiteBudget
Registry
HarmonyWebsiteBudget
Registry
New Diana
WebsiteBudget

Union Grove
WebsiteBudgetReportRegistry

Union Hill
WebsiteBudget

Big Sandy
Website


GilmerWebsite




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Thursday, December 25, 2008

Amber Alert - Erica Camacho


An Amber Alert was issued today for Erika Camacho, a Hispanic female teenager reportedly abducted in Selma, TX by her boyfriend, Ricardo Mora.

Photo's of the girl or her boyfriend were not immediately available, but descriptions of both are posted in this article, as well as the Beyond Missing website.

MISSING
Name: Erika Camacho
Last Seen: December 24, 2008 - 7:25 PM
Last Location: Selma, Bexar County, TX
Date of birth: August 13, 1993
Height: 5' 3"
Hair Color: Brown
Weight: 100 lbs.
Eye Color: Brown
Gender: Female
Race: Hispanic

victim last seen wearing a white t-shirt denim capri pants and flip flop sandals victim has a slender build and has a light skin complexion. was abducted forcibly by boyfriend

SUSPECT
Ricardo Alvarado Mora
White Male
DOB: 02/24/85
Hair: black
Eyes: Brown
Height: 5'-4"
Weight: 140#
Mole above left eyebrow
Last seen wearing blue sweatshirt and blue jeans and tennis shoes
Was seen in a blue 2000 Chevy Silverado 1500 extended cab pickup
Tx Lic Plates 89LPF4
veh has been located and is now in police custody

If you have any information on this child contact:
Agency: selma police department
24 Hr. Phone # : (210) 653-0033
24 Hr. FAX # :(210) 657-7449
Alternate Phone # : (210) 651-5368
City / State: Selma, TX
Zip Code: 78154
Email: kosborn@ci.selma.tx.us Emergency # : 911

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New Diana Ex-Coach Released On Bond

John Tiger, arrested Oct. 25th for Online Solicitation of a Minor Under 14, was released on bond Monday.

Upshur Sheriff's Department jail and bond records indicate Aba Bail Bonds of Gilmer posted the $100,000 bond on Tigers behalf.

Read More...

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

White Oak Energy Upgrades Aimed At Efficiency And Comfort

Battling failing heating and cooling equipment, and faced with a lack of funding for repairs, the White Oak ISD entered into a contract finance agreement that uses future energy savings to pay for efficiency upgrades.

White Oak will spend more than $1.8 million dollars replacing and upgrading boilers, chillers and ventilation fans in nine district buildings totaling over 410,000 square feet. They will also update classroom and gym lighting. The whole system will be controlled and monitored by an energy management system to ensure comfort and efficiency.

Rather than entering into loans or issuing bonds, the ISD will pay for the upgrades from the energy savings they generate.

Known as Energy Performance Contracting, the deal works like this: The ISD entered into an agreement with a private energy service company (ESCO). The ESCO evaluate energy-saving opportunities and then recommend a package of improvements to be paid for through energy savings.

The ESCO guarantees that savings will meet or exceed annual payments on the upgrades, usually over a 7 - 10 year term. If the projected savings aren't realized, the ESCO pays the difference, not the ISD.

The upgrades at the district include a mixed bag of energy saving improvements. Two new boilers, and two new chillers will be installed, along with eight new circulating pumps.

Contractors will retrofit 10 existing air-handlers, and install CO2 and humidity sensors to automatically adjust building ventilation. New high efficiency lighting fixtures will be installed in classrooms and gyms, lowering utility costs and improving visibility.

Texas State Energy Conservation Office list the following Performance Contracting guidelines on it's website:

Energy Performance Contracting is a construction method that allows a facility to complete energy-saving improvements within an existing budget by financing them with money saved through reduced utility expenditures. Facilities make no up-front investments and instead finance projects through guaranteed annual energy savings.

To enter into a guaranteed energy savings performance contract (ESPC), a state agency must notify SECO of their intent, issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), and select a performance contractor, usually an energy service company (ESCO). After identifying eligible projects, the contractor designs and installs the needed improvements. The agency pays for the financed project out of savings realized by the improvements. By law, the contractor must guarantee that the savings will always be at least equal to the payments for the cost of the improvements. Current Texas law also enables institutions of higher education, state agencies, public school districts, and local governments to enter into energy service performance contracts (ESPC).

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Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Sheriff's Dept. Report 12-15-08 to 12-21-08

Sheriff Anthony Betterton reports that 177 calls for service were reported to the UPSHUR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE between the dates of 12-15-08 and 12-21-08

Sheriff Betterton also reports that 48 people were booked into the Upshur County Jail on a variety of charges which include Driving while license suspended, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Child Support, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Parole Violation, Evading Arrest, DWI, Permitting Unlicensed person to drive, Possession of Dangerous Drugs, Theft, Burglary of a Habitation, Possession of Marijuana, Theft by Check, Interfer with emergency call, Terroristic Threats, Stolen Vehicle, Harassment, Injury to a Child or Elderly and traffic. There were also 69 people released from the Upshur county jail.

Thefts 11
Assault 15
Burglary 8
Criminal Mischief 7
Disturbance 11
Traffic 37
Suspicious Vehicle/Person 12
Civil Matters 2
Assist other agency 17
Drug cases 5
Unwanted Guest 4
Deaths 0
Shots Fired 2
Juvenile 3
Harassment 2
Other 41

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Monday, December 22, 2008

Austin Indemnity Lloyds to Enter Receivership

Texas Department of Insurance moves to force liquidation of Austin Indemnity. Upshur residents holding policies are advised to contact their carrier or the TDI for more information.

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) has filed a petition for the liquidation of Austin Indemnity Lloyds Insurance Company (Austin Indemnity). The company sold homeowners and personal auto coverage in Texas.

On July 1, 2008, Austin Indemnity sent out non-renewal notices to all of its homeowners insurance policyholders, and the company stopped taking new applications for auto insurance on August 16, 2008. In September company officials signed a hazardous financial condition order, which allowed TDI staff to more closely monitor the company’s operations.

While TDI was working with Austin Indemnity to develop an orderly withdrawal from the market, Hurricane Ike hit the Texas coast. The financial impact of the storm was too much for Austin Indemnity to continue its monitored withdrawal and forced TDI to take the additional action of ordering liquidation.

Management for Austin Indemnity has consented to receivership, and the entry of a liquidation order. In accordance with the Texas Insurance Code, policies will be canceled 30 days after the date of the liquidation order. The liquidation order is expected to be entered on December 29, 2008, and policies will then terminate effective January 28, 2009. Austin Indemnity, working with TDI staff, is sending notices to affected policyholders advising them of this situation, and providing them with resources to obtain replacement coverage.

In June 2008, Austin Indemnity entered into an agreement with one of its largest agents through which policyholders were extended an offer to purchase a renewal homeowners insurance policy with a new carrier upon the expiration of the term of their Austin Indemnity policy. Policyholders will receive a notice of an offer from this agent to obtain replacement coverage upon the termination of their Austin Indemnity policy . Policyholders should contact their insurance agents immediately to secure the replacement coverage of their choice.

TDI staff has been briefing the Texas Property and Casualty Insurance Guaranty Association (TPCIGA) on the status of Austin Indemnity since the hazardous financial condition order was issued in September. TPCIGA is a non-profit association of all insurers licensed to sell property and casualty insurance in Texas. It exists to provide limited protection to Texas policyholders and claimants in the event of the insolvency of an insurer licensed in Texas. TPCIGA has assessed Austin Indemnity’s information systems and claims data in preparation for assuming its responsibilities to facilitate the transition to liquidation.

For more information, email mailto:PIO@tdi.state.tx.us

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Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Texas Forest Service Urges Caution With Holiday Fireworks

Many areas across the state will be in danger of accidental wildfires this month as some Texans celebrate the holiday season with fireworks.

Dec. 16, 2008 - COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Fireworks are commonly linked to Christmas and New Year festivities, but Texas Forest Service warns the outcome can be disastrous if proper safety precautions are not taken.

“Many Texans will be using fireworks to celebrate Christmas and the New Year,” Texas Forest Service Fire Operations Chief Mark Stanford said. “TFS wants Texans to use fireworks safely in order to protect themselves and to avoid accidentally starting wildfires.”


Under Texas law, county government officials have the authority to restrict certain types of aerial fireworks when drought conditions exist or when hazardous fuel conditions are present during the winter months. County officials also consider drought conditions when determining outdoor burn bans for their counties. Texas Forest Service does not make decisions regarding restrictions on fireworks or outdoor burning bans. The state agency does, however, provide drought condition information to counties.

Currently, many parts of Texas are in danger of accidental wildfire because of continued drought. Most of Central and West Texas is experiencing drier than normal conditions. In Southeast Texas, debris from Hurricane Ike and vegetation killed by saltwater is contributing to the problem, as is cured debris that remains from Hurricane Rita.

Tips for the safe use of fireworks:

* Adhere to all county and city fireworks laws.
* Use fireworks outdoors away from dry grass and buildings.
* Read firework labels and use only as directed. DO NOT ALTER THE PRODUCTS.
* Use only with adult supervision.
* Keep water, wet towels and a garden hose nearby.
* Allow fireworks to cool completely before handling.
* Discard used fireworks into a bucket of water.

For more information, go to Texas Forest Service website at http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/main/default.aspx.

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Pendarvis To Remain As Upshur Road Administrator

In their regular meeting Monday, Upshur Commissioners voted 3-2 to leave A.L. "Bubba" Pendarvis in place as Road Administrator, pending an opinion by Billy Byrd, the District Attorney.

The vote revolved around an issue of hiring a certified engineer, or an uncertified administrator, which is the position Pendarvis currently holds

Commissioners Glenn Campbell and James Crittenden are in favor of hiring and engineer, and want to post the job for applications.

A certified engineer would draw a larger salary, approximately $20,000 more per year than Pendarvis makes.

Commissioners Lloyd Crabtree and Joe Ferguson, along with County Judge Dean Fowler, wish to leave Pendarvis in his current role. Fowler cast the tie-breaking vote to retain Pendarvis.

Campbell then asked to have District Attorney Billy Byrd issue an opinion on whether the county had to take applications for a certified engineer. In the voting on that motion, Fowler sided with Campbell and Crittenden.

Byrd confirmed this morning that Fowler had been in contact with the D.A.'s office, and work on the opinion was in progress.

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Monday, December 15, 2008

Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments In The Eastern District Of Texas

Kerry Scott Baker indicted on six counts of child pornography.

TYLER, TX—United States Attorney Rebecca A. Gregory announced that a federal grand jury returned indictments late yesterday charging multiple individuals in separate cases of federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas.

KERRY SCOTT BAKER, 33, of Gilmer, Texas, is charged with 6 counts of child pornography. The defendant is charged with production, distribution and receipt of child pornography.

If convicted, Baker faces up to 30 years in federal prison on Counts 1, 2, and 3. On Counts 4 and 5, the defendant faces imprisonment of up to 20 years and on Count 6, up to 10 years in federal prison.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC). In February 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin is prosecuting the case. The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

JAMES EARL FAY, 26, of Longview, is charged with 5 counts of firearms violations which include unlawful making of a firearm, possession of an unregistered firearm, possession of a firearm during crime of violence, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

If convicted, Fay faces up to 10 years in federal prison on each count. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Coan.

BRITT BOYD, 51, of Tyler, and PHILLIP NEWLAND, 58, of Lindale, Texas were charged with manufacturing and dealing, and conspiring with one another to manufacture and deal, in firearms without a license to either deal or manufacture firearms.

If convicted, they each face up to 5 years in federal prison. This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.



SHERA BUCKELEW DUNCAN, 65, and RONDELL EDWARD DUNCAN, 66, of Tyler, are charged with aiding and abetting. The indictment alleges that from August 1, 2007 through April 28, 2008 Rondell Edward Duncan aided and abetted Britt Boyd in manufacturing and dealing in firearms without a license. Shera Duncan, aided and abetted by her husband, Rondell, violated numerous federal statutes pertaining to Mrs. Duncan's status as a Federal Firearms Licensee.

The Duncans each face up to 5 years in federal prison if convicted. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.

GARRETT MICHAEL UNDERWOOD, 19, of Texarkana, Texas is charged with possessing a firearm while being subject to a protection order. He is also charges with traveling in interstate commerce to violate the protection order.

If convicted, Underwood faces up to 10 years in federal prison for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and up to 5 years in federal prison on the charge of interstate violation of a protection order. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise Simpson.

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ETMC Gilmer Welcomes Three Physicians To Staff Positions

Three physicians have joined the staff at ETMC Gilmer, one in the ETMC First Physicians Clinic and two as hospitalists to care for hospitalized patients.

All three staff physicians are board certified internal medicine physicians.

Board-certified internal medicine physician Hernan Miranda, MD, is accepting new patients at the ETMC First Physicians Clinic, located behind the hospital at 711 N. Titus. Dr. Miranda, who recently became a naturalized U.S. citizen, was born in Peru and is fluent in both English and Spanish. Seeking to relocate to a warmer climate, he moved to Gilmer a couple of months ago, after practicing medicine in the Philadelphia area for the past 15 years.

The son of a doctor and the father of two daughters studying medicine, Dr. Miranda is dedicated to his family and considers being a physician a privilege. “I take a lot of pride when my patient tells me, ‘I feel much better. Thank you, doctor.’”
Dr. Miranda accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and welcomes new patients. Appointments can be made with Dr. Miranda by calling 903-841-7300.

Ilanko Upendran, MD, is a board certified internal medicine physician who worked at ETMC Gilmer until earlier this year as a hospitalist – a doctor who takes care of patients who are hospitalized. Since then, Dr. Upendran has been working in other ETMC hospitals across the region, but has now returned to work full-time as a hospitalist at ETMC Gilmer. He is joined by Gregory W. DuQuella, MD, who is a new hospitalist at ETMC Gilmer.

“We check on our patients multiple times a day, according to the patient’s needs. In other facilities, doctors often just check on them once, but we come back to make sure they are comfortable and all their needs are taken care of. If they have any issues, we address them right away. That’s the difference that ETMC Gilmer provides,” explained Dr. Upendran. “I am very excited about returning to ETMC Gilmer, and look forward to seeing my friends and former patients in Gilmer.”

Like Drs. Miranda and Upendran, Dr. DuQuella is also a board certified internal medicine physician. He has worked as a hospitalist in Longview since 2005. Prior to that, he worked as a hospitalist in Chicago. He is a graduate of the Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, and completed his residency training at the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center.


--- BYLINE

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Gilmer Man Sentenced on Child Pornography Charges

William Allen Pipes sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for child pornography.

TYLER, TX – United States Attorney Rebecca A. Gregory announced today that a 33-year-old Gilmer, Texas man has been sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for child pornography violations in the Eastern District of Texas.

WILLIAM ALLEN PIPES pleaded guilty on June 26, 2008 to Possession of Material Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors and was sentenced today by United States District Judge Michael Schneider. Pipes was also ordered to forfeit all interest in a Blackberry and personal computer seized in this case.

According to information presented in court, on January 10, 2008, a federal search warrant was executed at Pipes' residence. During the search, Pipes' personal computer was seized. Forensic analysis revealed the computer contained digital images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Pipes admitted to possessing more than 300 images of child pornography.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC). In February 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service and the Longview Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bill Baldwin.

Background via Tyler Paper

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Sunday, December 14, 2008

Upshur Sales Tax Revenues Increase in 2008

Countywide, 2008 tax allocations totaled $2,609,000, increasing $205,000 over 2007

Texas Comptroller Susan Combs said Friday that Texas collected $1.98 billion in sales tax in November, up 4.7 percent compared to November 2007.

“For the first three months of the state’s 2009 fiscal year, state sales tax collections have continued to grow,” Combs said. “However, the increase is less than in the past three years, and collections from important sectors such as retail trade and construction have declined slightly.”

The Comptroller sent cities, counties, special purpose districts and transit systems their final sales tax allocations of 2008 — $488 million, up 9.2 percent compared to last December. Despite the economic slowdown, Combs said local governments collected $5.9 billion in sales tax this year, 6.3 percent more than in 2007.

Upshur County, as well as the cities of Big Sandy, East Mountain, Gilmer, Ore City, and Union Grove, all receive separate monthly allocations from the state.

When combined, the December allocations of $213,573.50, which comes from sales taxes collected in October of this year, grew over $23,000 from December 2007, which was $190,357.64.

For the calendar year, 2007 combined allocations were $2,404,349, increasing this year to $2,609,958. This is a healthy 8.5% increase.











Calendar Years 2008 and 2007 Allocations
Recipient20082007% Change
Big Sandy$280,782$261,8907.21%
East Mountain$23,474$19,07723.05%
Gilmer$1,282,214$1,204,4916.45%
Ore City$131,454$112,05817.31%
Union Grove$5,752$5,3138.27%
Upshur County$886,279$801,51710.58%
Combined$2,609,958$2,404,3498.55%


Not all the news was rosy, however. Big Sandy, East Mountain and Union Grove all saw individual decreases from December of last year. Union Grove tumbled 64%.










December 2008 and 2007 Allocations
RecipientDec 2008Dec 2007% Change
Big Sandy$23,984$24,569-2.38%
East Mountain$2, 111$2,395-11.83%
Gilmer$103,912$92,93611.81%
Ore City$10,527$9,7597.87%
Union Grove$303$862-64.82%
Upshur County$72,734$59,83521.56%
Combined$213,573$190,35712.20%



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Friday, December 12, 2008

New Diana Middle School Places Five On The All-Region Middle School Band

Ross Langdon, Middle School Band Director, announced the names of the five young musicians today.

The text of his announcement follows:

I would like to recognize these students that made the All-Region Middle School Band on Friday last week.

1. Jessica Cochran- Flute
2. Garrett Mayeaux- Bari Saxophone
3. Andrew Mulanax- Trombone
4. Caitlin Ross (Alternate)- Alto Saxophone
5. Christian Gouldie (Alternate) – Bass Clarinet

These students have showed tremendous leadership and playing ability on their instrument and have done an amazing job representing New Diana. I would like to thank the NDISD Staff, Pam Martin, and Greg Pope. I Would also like to recognize the amazing work that High School Band Director George Little has provided for our program.
Sincerely ,
Ross Langdon

The Advocate joins in congratulating the talents and efforts of the five, as well.

Well Done!

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New Diana Middle School Begins Using Sex Offender ID System

New Diana joins ISD's across Texas with installation of drivers license scanning equipment, linked to an online sex offender registry.

In an effort to tighten campus security, and identify known predators before they are allowed access, New Diana Middle School announced it has installed and is using the Raptor V-Soft system.

The announcement, in the school newsletter this week, follows:

When you come to pick up your child at NDMS, you will experience a system designed to make our school safer by scanning licenses for the sole purpose of checking for sex offenders only. We will ask you or any other visitors to our campus to allow us to scan your license. If staying on campus, you will receive a sticker with your photo and destination while you are on our campus. While this can take a little more of your time, please realize that this is for the safety of your child and all students in our schools. Thank you!

The Raptor system has been in the news lately, due to a lawsuit in Lake Travis over it's use, alleging violations of parents constitutional rights, including freedom to associate with their children at school, and freedom from unreasonable search and seizure. The case has yet to be tried.

Responding to that suit, Houston based Raptor Systems said it was unaware of other similar lawsuits.

On it's website, Raptor claims to have the system installed in 5000 schools, including Southside, McKinney, Tyler, Kilgore and Athens ISD's in Texas.

Read More...

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Big Sandy Police Arrest Fugitive Listed On America's Most Wanted

Assisted by the Upshur Sheriff's Office, Hawkins Police Department, the Texas DPS and the Longview SWAT Team, Big Sandy officers nabbed Duane Beard, a fugitive from a murder charge in Kansas, Tuesday.

According to the AMW website, Beard is wanted for first-degree murder, and two counts of Armed Criminal Action and 1st Degree Assault

The News-Journal has the story of the capture.

America's Most Wanted list the following details of the crimes Beard is accused of:

According to authorities investigating the case, roommates Sherry Stewart and Samantha Curlee were hurting for cash. The end of the month was just around the corner, and bills, rent, and utilities would be coming due.

The roommates thought they had stumbled upon good fortune when their friend, Duane Beard, gladly agreed to lend them some of the necessary funds.

Police say the roommates left Kansas City for the weekend. Samantha had family that lived in Clinton, a small, rural town 77 miles outside of Kansas City, and they often visited to get away from the bustling city.

Meanwhile, vexed by Sherry and Samantha's unexpected absence from town, Beard's temper churned. Prosecutors say that Beard had money on his mind and did not take at all kindly to the girls' unforeseen getaway, especially without receiving repayment or prior notification.

Upon their return home, police say Sherry and Samantha didn't have to wait long before receiving an unexpected visit from Beard. Beard's animosity accumulated with the arousal of his foul temper. He wanted his money. According to police, Beard felt he was being dealt a short hand.

When he arrived at Sherry and Samantha's apartment, Beard was let right in. The girls were not aware of his horrifying potential. Tempers flared, according to authorities, and angry words were exchanged between Sherry and Beard. Samantha, an innocent bystander, was on the coach, unaware of the developing situation.

Police say Sherry tried to run from the argument by heading towards the bathroom. Beard, by now, they say, had become dangerous and irrational.

Prosecutors say Beard, furious at this point, shot Sherry. He immediately turned towards Samantha and shot her as she lay on the coach.

According to police, Sherry was dead on arrival, and Samantha was suffering from a serious wound to the abdomen. She was taken to a nearby hospital, and survived the devastating assault.
Duane Beard, a very small man weighing in at just 127 lbs. and standing a mere 5'7" tall, faces four colossal charges: first-degree murder, and two counts of Armed Criminal Action and 1st Degree Assault.

Police say Beard was due in court, but posted a $300,000 bond and bailed out of jail.

Read More...

Report Finds Motor Vehicles, Falls are Causes of Most Child and Teen Injuries and Deaths in the U.S.

An estimated 55 million children and teens from birth to age 19 were treated in emergency departments for unintentional injuries from 2001 to 2006, according to a new report released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The report also notes that between 2000 and 2005, unintentional injuries resulted in 73,052 deaths among children and teens. Falls caused most non-fatal injuries (about 2.8 million each year), while most deaths were transportation-related (about 8,000 deaths each year involved a motor vehicle occupant, pedestrian or pedal cyclist).

According to the report, every year, an estimated 9.2 million children visited emergency departments for unintentional injuries. Falls were associated with over half of the nonfatal injuries involving children less than one year, while transportation-related injuries and deaths were highest among children 15 to 19 years of age. Overall, males were almost twice as likely to die as a result of unintentional injuries than females.

To help parents and other adults prevent child injuries, CDC is also launching the “Protect the Ones You Love” initiative. More about this initiative can be found at www.cdc.gov/safechild.

“Injury risks change as our children grow and we want them to be appropriately protected as they develop,” said Dr. Ileana Arias, Director of CDC′s Injury Center. “We encourage parents to be vigilant and to understand that there are proven ways to help reduce injuries at each life stage.”


Other notable findings in the CDC report include:

* The highest fatality rates were among occupants of motor vehicles;
* Drowning was the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages one to four. For those ages 5 to 19, most injury deaths were due to being an occupant in a motor vehicle crash; and
* Children ages one to four also had the highest nonfatal injury rates due to poisoning and falls.

CDC′s report of national and state information on the leading causes of childhood injury is being released to coincide with the World Health Organization′s (WHO) and the United Nations Children′s Fund′s (UNICEF) launch of the 2008 World Report on Child Injury Prevention. The World Report provides a global perspective of child injury and prevention.

The full report, “CDC Childhood Injury Report: Patterns of Unintentional Injuries among 0-19 Year Olds in the United States, 2000-2006,” is available at www.cdc.gov/safechild/Child_Injury_Data.htm.

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Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Gohmert Pushes For Taxpayer Bailout

Proposing an alternate means of jump starting the nation's economy, Rep. Louis Gohmert is advocating a two month tax holiday.

His plan would use the remaining 350 billion of the $750 billion bailout fund to grant a two month period in which no federal taxes would be collected. Fiscal conservatives are climbing on the band wagon, but the plan faces opposition in the democratically controlled House of Representatives.

Gohmert faced tough questions today about his plan from conservative bloggers who met with him today at the Heritage Foundation.

Most wanted to know why Gohmert was pushing a short-term tax holiday rather than a long-term solution such as cutting capital gains or reducing corporate taxes. Gohmert said it boiled down to political reality. With Democrats controlling 256 seats in the House, there’s little Republicans can do to enact long-term tax relief.


Heritage.org has the story.

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Monday, December 8, 2008

Sheriff's Dept. Report 12-01-08 to 12-07-08

Sheriff Anthony Betterton reports that 160 calls for service were reported to the UPSHUR COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE between the dates of 12-1-08 and 12-07-08

Sheriff Betterton also reports that 49 people were booked into the Upshur County Jail on a variety of charges which include Driving while license suspended, Assault, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Federal Detainer, Theft by Check, Manufacturing and Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Mischief, Credit Card Abuse, Criminal Negligent Homicide, Criminal Trespass, DWI, Evading Arrest, Arson, Stolen Vehicle, Bench Warrant, Child Support and traffic. There were also 59 people released from the Upshur county jail.

Thefts 10
Assault 9
Burglary 3
Criminal Mischief 5
Disturbance 17
Traffic 24
Suspicious Vehicle/Person 9
Civil Matters 4
Assist other agency 14
Drug cases 1
Unwanted Guest 7
Deaths 1
Shots Fired 3
Juvenile 5
Harassment 5
Other 43

Read More...

Thursday, December 4, 2008

New Diana High School Receives 2008 College Readiness Award

The Longview News-Journal has the story.

Read More...

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Sheriff's Dept. Report 11-24-08 to 11-30-08

Sheriff Anthony Betterton reports that 144 calls for service were reported to the UPSHUR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE between the dates of 11-24-08 and 11-30-08

Sheriff Betterton also reports that 39 people were booked into the Upshur County Jail on a variety of charges which include Forgery, Delivery of Marijuana, Theft, Interfere with police services, Assault, Manufacturing and Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Tampering or Fabricate with Physical Evidence, Resisting Arrest, Burglary of Habitation, Aggravated Assault, Child Support, Fail to Identify as a Fugitive, Aggravated Sexual Assault to a Child, Cruelty to Animals, DWI, Burglary of a Vehicle, Parole Violation, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and traffic. There were also 46 people released from the Upshur county jail.

Thefts 13
Assault 12
Burglary 6
Criminal Mischief 5
Disturbance 4
Traffic 28
Suspicious Vehicle/Person 11
Civil Matters 3
Assist other agency 4
Drug cases 0
Unwanted Guest 4
Deaths 2
Shots Fired 4
Juvenile 7
Harassment 2
Other 39

Read More...

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Sen. Cornyn Applauds Obama's Promise To Cut Wasteful Spending

In a statement Tuesday, Senator Cornyn said he looked forward to working with the new President to cut Washington waste.

Cornyn also noted that the Office of Management and Budget had recently said 25% of government were either inefficient, or their efficiency could not be determined. He went on to restate his support for a "Sunset Commission" to end programs that don't work.

The Senator's statement follows:

"I welcome the President-elect's commitment to reform the federal budget process and rein in wasteful government spending. For my part, I look forward to working with President-elect Obama and Democratic leaders in Congress on quickly identifying and eliminating inefficient, ineffective and outdated federal programs.

"Families across Texas, and across the country, are forced to make tough decisions with their own budgets every day, particularly in the current economic climate. It should be no different for the federal government.

"Yet, year after year, too many government programs are funded because there are small—but vocal—special interest groups backing them with little Congressional oversight to determine when ideas have run their course. Already, in an initial analysis of 1,000 federal programs the Office of Management and Budget recently concluded that nearly 25 percent of them were either inefficient, or their efficiency could not be determined.

"That is why I have been a strong advocate for the creation of a Federal Sunset Commission to review federal spending programs. Modeled after Texas' own Sunset Commission, this bipartisan group would be tasked with reviewing federal programs, determining their efficiency, and making recommendations on whether they need reform or should be eliminated all together.

"While I have repeatedly pushed my colleagues in the Senate for this commission, it has never garnered the support it needs from the Democratic leadership. As the new session of Congress begins and President-elect Obama takes office, I will once again introduce my bill for a Federal Sunset Commission.

"If President-elect Obama is sincere in his pledge to work in a bipartisan manner and reform Washington spending habits, he will find a willing partner. I look forward to working with the President-elect, his economic team, and my colleagues in Congress to start tackling wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars."

Read More...

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Disaster Aid Tops One Billion Dollars for Texans

Housing Assistance tops the list of FEMA funding for Hurricane Ike recovery in Texas

FEMA's latest report, issued today, shows the agency has disbursed $310 million dollars to Texans for housing needs, and $77 million for transportation, medical expenses and personal property repair and replacement.

Excerpts from the complete statement follow:

AUSTIN, Texas -- More than one billion dollars in federal and state disaster assistance has gone to help Texans recover from Hurricane Ike. From the recovering residents in disaster-affected neighborhoods who are rebuilding their lives, to the local city governments that are repairing damages to their infrastructure, progress is being made because of hard work and substantial funding.

Included in the billion dollar's worth of recovery funds are:

* $310 million disbursed for Housing Assistance grants to rent temporary housing
* $77 million disbursed for Other Needs Assistance such as transportation, medical expenses and personal property repair and replacement
* $2.8 million disbursed in FEMA-funded disaster unemployment
* $345 million approved in SBA low-interest loans for renters, homeowners, and business owners
* $215 million billed to FEMA for hotel stays for displaced Texans
* $122 million obligated in Public Assistance, the first of many cost-share and state administered PA reimbursements. These funds go to local governments for debris removal, emergency protective measures taken before and after the storm, and infrastructure repair on a cost-share basis.

"Surpassing the billion dollar mark is a great stride in disaster recovery," said Stephen DeBlasio who heads up the federal recovery effort. "But many more steps are needed; as state, private, voluntary, and federal partners continue to put those in need on the road to recovery."

Read More...

Johnathan Packer Resigns As Upshur Economic Development Corp. Director

Resigning Thursday, Packer says he has accepted a post with the Killeen Chamber of Commerce

The News-Journal has the story.

Read More...

Charges May Be Filed In Pit Bull Attack

The attack last Friday of a young Diana boy by a pit bull may lead to criminal charges.

Sources in the Upshur Sheriff's Department confirm that a case has been submitted to the District Attorney's office.

Gilmer --- Lt. Gary Roberts, who heads the Patrol Division of the Upshur Sheriff's Department, said the dog involved in the attack had been confiscated, and is currently quarantined at Spencer's Veterinary Clinic in Gilmer. The dog will be observed for 10 days for symptoms of rabies or other illness.

Lt. Roberts said the department had assembled and submitted the case to the District Attorney's office.

D.A. Billy Byrd said today he had not reviewed the case, and could not comment on a ongoing investigation. He did, however, say that if charges are filed, they could be either felony or misdemeanor charges, depending on the factors of the case.

According to the website DOG BITE LAW, Texas led the nation in the number of fatalities attributed to dog attacks in 2007. The site also quotes some other interesting statistics:

The most recent official survey, conducted more than a decade ago, determined there were 4.7 million dog bite victims annually in the USA. A more recent study showed that 1,000 Americans per day are treated in emergency rooms as a result of dog bites. In 2007 there were 32 fatal dog attacks in the USA. Most of the victims who receive medical attention are children, half of whom are bitten in the face. Dog bite losses exceed $1 billion per year, with over $300 million paid by homeowners insurance.

The site also notes that Texas is a "One Bite State", saying

A "one-bite state" (also referred to as a "one free bite" state) adheres to the ancient "one-bite rule." This rule acts as both a shield and a sword, in that it shields dog owners from liability for some dog bites, while it imposes liability (acts like a sword) for other dog bites. Specifically, it provides that:

* The dog owner (and everyone else who is connected with the dog) is protected from liability as to the first injury caused by the dog, unless liability can be based upon other grounds.

* The dog owner, harborers and keepers will be held strictly liable for dog bites and other harm caused by a known dangerous propensity of the dog. For example, if the dog previously bit someone, and the owner knew about it, then the owner will be responsible every time the dog bites anyone else. Liability results from keeping a dog that was known to hurt people. The key to this type of liability is knowledge

Read More...

Upshur Deputy Arrests Two Local Men On Drugs And Weapon Offenses

Nov 22nd traffic stop nets two arrests.

One man attempted escape after the traffic stop, and marijuana and methamphetamine were found.

Sheriff's press release follows.

SHERIFF BETTERTON SAID THAT SHORTLY AFTER MIDNIGHT ON SATURDAY THE 22ND OFFICER CHAD LANIER RAN A LICENSE PLATE ON A VEHICLE WHILE TRAVLEING NORTH BOUND ON HWY 300. THE DISPATCHER ADVISED THAT THE REGISTERED OWNER WAS POSSIBLY WANTED. OFFICER LANIER THEN REQUESTED ASSISTANCE BY A PATROL UNIT FOR A TRAFFIC STOP.

MARC NICHOLS ASSISTED IN THE STOP AND STOPPED THE VEHICLE ON BORDER ST. OFF OF HWY 300 WHERE HE WAS ASSISTED BY GILMER POLICE OFFICERS JAMES CASEY AND ALBERT CABERRA. AFTER DEPUTY NICHOLS APPROACHED THE VEHICLE HE IDENTIFIED THE DRIVER AS KENNETH F. LEWIS AND THE PASSENGER AS JOHN P. WALKER. DEPUTY NICHOLS RAN BOTH SUBJECTS THROUGH THE UPSHUR COUNTY DISPATCH AND WHILE WAITING ON THE RETURNS JOHN WALKER RAN EAST OF THE TRAFFIC STOP. BOTH DEPUTY NICHOLS AND LANIER CHASED THE SUSPECT ON FOOT AND APPREHENDED HIM A SHORT DISTANCE AWAY. JOHN WALKER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF A 40. CAL. HANDGUN AND A SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA.

OFFICERS THEN FOUND A SMALL AMOUNT OF METH. IN KENNETH LEWIS POCKET. BOTH SUSPECTS WERE ARRESTED AND TRANSPORTED TO THE UPSHUR COUNTY JAIL.

KENNETH F. LEWIS 34 YEAR OLD GILMER MAN BONDS TOTAL $ 10,000

JOHN PATRICK LEWIS 36 YEAR OLD GILMER MAN BONDS TOTAL $ 18,000

Read More...

Sheriff's Department Report 11-17-08 to11-23-08

Sheriff Anthony Betterton reports that 170 calls for service were reported to the UPSHUR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE between the dates of 11-17-08 and 11-23-08.

Sheriff Betterton also reports that 69 people were booked into the Upshur County Jail on a variety of charges which include Assault Family Violence, Burglary of a Habitation, Theft, Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor, Burglary of a Building, Prohibited Substance in a Correctional Facility, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Manufacturing and Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Evading Arrest, Theft by Check, Abandon or endangering a child, Possession of Marijuana, Parole Violation, Aggravated Assault, DWI, Federal Detainer, Unlawful Possession of a firearm by Felon, Robbery, Credit Card Abuse, Child Support, Aggravated Assault on a Public Servant and traffic. There were also 60 people released from the Upshur county jail.

Thefts 7
Assault 9
Burglary 4
Criminal Mischief 9
Disturbance 12
Traffic 29
Suspicious Vehicle/Person 11
Civil Matters 7
Assist other agency 5
Drug cases 14
Unwanted Guest 4
Deaths 1
Shots Fired 5
Juvenile 2
Harassment 0
Other 51

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7 year old left with 80 stitches after pit bull attack

Diana 7 year old left with 80 stitches after pit bull attack
After more than two hours of surgery, a seven year old East Texas boy is back home tonight, recovering from a pit bull attack. The boy was attacked Friday evening near his home in Diana, which is north of Longview on Highway 259.

KLTV has the full story.

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Monday, November 24, 2008

White Oak High School Bomb Threat

Type your summary here
Type your lead paragraph here.

White Oak - Text from Mike Gilbert, superintendent at White Oak Schools blog follows:

he following is a copy of the message sent via our automatic phone system to our parents at 9:45 AM.


November 24, 2008

This is Mike Gilbert, superintendent at White Oak Schools. This message is being sent to inform you of a situation that occurred at the High School this morning, Monday, November 24.

At approximately 6:45 AM, White Oak Police informed the district that a 911 call had been received by an anonymous caller stating that someone was bringing a bomb to school. No other information was given to police. At this time the process of starting the school day was well underway.


After consulting with police, the decision was made to continue the school day with very strict procedures in place to insure the safety of students, faculty, and staff. I am pleased to tell you that by 8:45 AM the caller had been identified and the matter will be turned over to the White Oak Police Department for investigation. Let me assure you that White Oak ISD intends to prosecute this matter to the fullest extent of the law when the responsible parties have been charged.


Many of you may have seen the police in front of the High School today. The procedures that were put in place this morning were:


1. All access to the high school was restricted to the East and West doors.
2. All items carried into the school were searched by White Oak Police officers.
3. Campus Principals at the Primary, Intermediate, and Middle School were informed of the situation and secured their campuses. Backpacks and materials were checked by faculty and staff.
4. High School classes began on time and students experienced no delays getting to class.
5. White Oak Police continued to search the belongings of those entering the school until well after the start of school and police were on campus until the caller was identified.

It is my firm belief that your students are safe and that all necessary precautions were taken to insure that they remain safe. If you have any additional questions, please call 903-291-2001 and speak with High School Principal Dan Noll.

Thank you.


Michael E. Gilbert


--- BYLINE

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Saturday, November 22, 2008

Gilmer PD Activity Week of Nov. 20th, 2008

The Police Department responded to 53 calls this week, resulting in 5 arrests.

GILMER --- Miscellaneous and welfare calls made up the bulk of the department's work this week. Assistant Chief T.J. Harris also noted that thefts were up somewhat, and said that was typical to the holiday season.

Activity by the numbers:

Complaint Calls Arrests
Alarm / 911 Call 4 0
Major Theft 1 0
Minor Theft 6 0
Disturbance 4 0
Suspicious Persons 7 0
Welfare Call 3 0
Miscellaneous 17 0
Warrant Arrest 3 3
Drug Solicitation 1 1
Criminal Mischief 2 0
Forgery / Check Fraud 1
Assault 1 0
Vehicular Accident 2 0
Graffiti 1 1



Totals
53 5

--- DeWayne Spell

Read More...

Friday, November 21, 2008

Firefighters Battle Blaze In Gilmer

A house fire at 430 Montgomery Street draws the efforts of three Upshur County Fire Departments.

GILMER --- Engines and crews from the Gilmer Fire Department, as well as Harmony and East Mountain VFD's combined to fight an attic fire in the wood frame house owned by the Curington family this afternoon.

According to City Fire Marshall Mike Melton, the Gilmer Fire Department received the call at 12:58p.m., and arrived on the scene at 1:00.

Crews from all three departments were engaged by 2:00p.m., and the roof had been ventilated and the main pump on Gilmer's engine got into action.

As shaken family members and friends huddled together across the street, firemen pumped water at the flames through holes chopped in the roof gables.

Slowly, the thick smoke cleared, and by 2:30 p.m. the crews had turned their attention to pulling melted siding and tin roofing aside to attack smoldering hot spots that threatened to reignite.

By 3:00 p.m., things were controlled enough to allow firemen and investigators to enter the home, searching for items the family asked for, and beginning to determine the cause of the fire.

Stuart Curington confirmed none of the family had been injured, and Melton said no firefighters were hurt in the response.

Melton said the crews had cleared the scene by 3:22p.m.

And while the house did suffer obvious damage, a detached building connected to it by a breezeway appeared unscathed.

County Fire Marshall Paul Steelman declined to speculate on the cause, saying his investigation was just getting underway.

--- DeWayne Spell




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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Moves From Gregg To Smith County

FEMA announced the center's relocation to Whitehouse today.

AUSTIN , Texas -- The FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center in Gregg County is relocating to a new site in Smith County , after close of business on Thursday, Nov. 20. The new center is scheduled to open from Saturday through Monday, Nov. 22-24, to provide face-to-face assistance to those who suffered damage from Hurricane Ike.

Smith County
YMCA parking lot
301 Terry St.
Whitehouse, TX 75791

Hours
1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. opening day, Saturday
12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday
9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday

A complete list of centers is available at www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem/pages/dr1791_drc_list.htm .

Residents are encouraged to register with FEMA before visiting a center. There are two ways to register: log on to www.fema.gov or call 1-800-621-3362, TTY 1-800-462-7585. Both numbers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice.

At the Disaster Recovery Center , visitors can:

* Receive information about different types of state and federal disaster assistance.
* Get help completing applications for U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations.
Inquire about the status of applications for federal assistance.
* Receive referrals to voluntary organizations to help with immediate unmet needs.
* Learn cost-effective mitigation measures to reduce the impact of future disaster losses.

FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.

FEMA News Realease

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Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Sheriff's Department Report 11-10-08 to 11-16-08

Sheriff Anthony Betterton reports that 156 calls for service were reported to the UPSHUR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE between the dates of 11-10-08 and 11-16-08.

Sheriff Betterton also reports that 40 people were booked into the Upshur County Jail on a variety of charges which include Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Assault, Theft, Issuance of a bad check, Driving while license invalid, Stolen vehicle, Burglary of a Habitation, Burglary of a Vehicle, Manufacturing and Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Federal Detainer, Criminal Mischief, DWI and traffic. There were also 58 people released from the Upshur county jail.

Thefts 12
Assault 13
Burglary 8
Criminal Mischief 5
Disturbance 12
Traffic 15
Suspicious Vehicle/Person 8
Civil Matters 6
Assist other agency 8
Drug cases 3
Unwanted Guest 3
Deaths 0
Shots Fired 3
Juvenile 8
Harassment 4
Other 48

Read More...

Friday, November 14, 2008

Crime Stoppers Target Cemetary Vandals

Information sought on perpetrators of headstone damage in the Grice Cemetary.

Gilmer - The Upshur County Crime Stoppers are offering $1000.00 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the vandals.
Reprinted by permission.

11/13/2008 - Grice Cemetery Damage

On 10/27/08 Upshur County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to the Grice Cemetery located on Giraffe Road just South of F.M. 852. Upon arrival contact was made with complainant and was advised that during the previous night, unknown suspect(s) had entered the cemetery and knocked over several grave markers. Information obtained that several people had visited the cemetery on 10/26/08 (Sunday) and no reports of any damage were made.

Damage occurred from the middle towards the North end of the property. Several markers of older gravesites were pried off their bases as tool marks were noticed both on the markers and bases. Residences in the area were contacted and no known description of the suspect(s) and or the suspect(s) vehicle could be made.

Upshur County Crime Stoppers will pay up to a $1,000.00 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for this crime. If you have any information please contact us at 903-843-3131 or toll-free 1-800-396-3351. You can also use the "Give a Tip" link from this website. Remember all calls or contacts are completely anonymous. We want your information, not your name. Thank you.

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Monday, November 10, 2008

Area Unemployment Trends Higher

Opportunities for workers do exist, even as the local job market tightens

Gilmer - Recent large upswings in the national unemployment rate haven't been reflected in the Texas economy yet, but our statewide jobless rate is on the rise.
Nationwide, the U.S. unemployment rate is 6.5%, and Texas lags that somewhat, ticking upward in September to 5.1%. Some of that increase is due the the impact of Hurricane Ike, with the remaining job losses attributed to a slowing national and state economy.

Locally, we are in slightly better shape, according to Stephen Lynch with Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS)in Tyler.

He says that the Longview area jobless rate rose .06% last month, up to 4.8%.
While we are below the national average, there are some displaced workers in the area who may be wondering what to do next and TWS may have some answers for them.

Besides the obvious step of filing for unemployment through the state, job seekers can also take advantage of free career counseling, job search assistance and some surprising training programs offered by Texas Workforce Solutions.

Under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), a program created by Congress in 1998, federally funded training is available for adults, dislocated workers and youth.

WIA funds are channeled from Washington to Texas. The state is then responsible to run the program and does that through the Texas Workforce Commision. In east Texas, the Workforce Commision relies on the East Texas Council of Government (ETCOG) to administer the effort.

Texas Workforce Solutions, a private firm, is contracted by ETCOG to administer the program in our area, and they have found success here in a hungry market.

Karitha Hayley, a career coach at the TWS office in Gilmer, reviewed some of the worker training they offer with the Advocate today. She says most of the effort is aimed at educating and moving workers who've lost blue collar jobs into white collar roles.

Hayley is proud of the services TWS offers, and seems to genuinely enjoy her role, saying:

"it's exciting, and I enjoy the rapport"

Hayley has about 30 workers currently in training, and points to several she recently assisted who have been placed into government jobs, now working at OSHA.

While the main thrust is to reclaim displaced workers, she says opportunities also exist for new workers just entering the job market, and older workers who may have been off the job roles for a while.

Hayley also highlighted assistance the program provides, through career counseling, with obtaining student loans for associate degree studies.

The training takes place at various locations in the area, including Panola College, Kilgore College and Tyler Junior College.

Hayley cautions that all job seekers might not be eligible, saying the training offered is driven by local job market demands, and based on aptitude and criteria developed by the state. Selection is also based on minimum educational levels, but TWS is also involved with helping applicants get remedial reading education and achieving GED's.

The TWS office in Gilmer opened in June of last year, and Hayley says they have reached their placement goals every month since then. In fact, her office ranks 2nd out of twenty-four TWS offices across east Texas.

She attributes their success to the automated job listings which are statewide, and the easy access job seekers and employers enjoy through the internet.

She is slightly frustrated, however, by the number of local employers, government agencies and ISD's that don't use the service, stating:

"I would love to see more local employers take advantage of our high performance, free service."

She notes that employers can offer the posting and set criteria for the applicants that TWC sends. The listing then goes out statewide, capturing applicants that may be trying to relocate to east Texas, as well as qualified local job hunters.

Employers and job seekers can contact Texas Workforce Solutions by phone at 903-680-3655, online at http://www.easttexasworkforce.org/index.php, or in person at 405 East Marshall Street in Gilmer.

Contact information for other TWS offices across the region can be found here.

Read More...

Crime Stoppers Target September Fires

Information sought on six fires set in a two day period last month.

Gilmer - The Upshur County Fire Marshal and Upshur County Crime Stoppers are seeking tips and information on a spate of fires set across the county. A $5000 reward is offered.

Reprinted by permission:

The Upshur County Fire Marshal`s Office is requesting assistance with the investigation of six suspicious fires in Upshur County, which occurred between the late hours of September 17, 2008 and the early hours of September 18, 2008.

During that time fires occurred at the following locations:

1. FM 2088 @ Great Dane Road - Storage trailer fire.

2. 7987 Aster Road - House fire.

3. 2100 Red Maple Road - Structure fire (Old Church building).

4. FM 1795 @ Live Oak Road - Latch Community Center building.

5. FM 556 North of FM 852 - Hay bale on fire.

6. Jaguar Road - Barn fire.

Upshur County Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) involved. If you believe that you have information that might be helpful in solving these crimes click the "Give a Tip" link on this website or contact our Hotline @ 1-800-396-3351 or 903-843-3131. Remember all calls or contacts are completely anonymous. We want your information, not your name. Thank you.


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Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Texas DPS Sex Offender Listing Updated For Upshur

Upshur County has 79 registered sex offenders living here. Find out who they are, and where they are.

The Texas Department of Public Safety keeps an updated list of registered sex offenders online.

A search for offenders living in Upshur County reveals 79 results, scattered broadly across the county.

Citizens can search for other counties and zip codes here.

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Upshur Vote Tally's In Statewide And Federal Races

How did Upshur vote in relation to the rest of the state?

According to tally's by the Texas Secretary of State, Upshur County didn't turn out as heavily as the rest of the state, and when we did, we trended more Republican than Texas as a whole.

30.45% of registered Upshur voters turned out this year, compared to 59.32% of the state. in 2004, Upshur turned out 57.43%.

In most all races, our county trended about 10-15% higher toward the Republican ticket than statewide voters.







































































































































































































































































President of the United StatesPartyUpshur VotesUpshur %Statewide %
John McCainREP587173.10%55.0%
Barack ObamaDEM210626.22%43.80%
US Senate
John CornynREP560270.79%54.80%
Rick NoriegaDEM218027.54%42.90%
Yvonne SchickLIB1311.65%2.90%
US Representative District 1
Louie GohmertREP612086.72%87.70%
Roger OwenIND93713.27%12.3%
Railroad Commissioner
Michael WilliamsREP481162.86%52.10%
Mark ThompsonDEM255933.43%44.40%
David FloydLIB2833.69%%3.50%
Chief Justice, Supreme Court
Wallace JeffersonREP481063.22%53.07%
Jim JordanDEM259334.08%43.83%
Tim OxfordLIB2052.69%3.10%
Justice, Supreme Court, Place 7
Dale WainwrightREP465361.21%51.08%
Sam HoustonDEM271535.71%45.90%
David SmithLIB2333.06%3.02%
Justice, Supreme Court, Place 8
Phil JohnsonREP503066.49%52.29%
Linda YanezDEM228130.15%44.67%
Drew ShirleyLIB2543.35%3.04%
Justice, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 3
Tom PriceREP480163.51%51.63%
Susan StrawnDEM256533.93%45.5%
Matthew EilersLIB1932.55%2.82%
Justice, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 4
Paul WomackREP498165.96%52.94%
J.R. MolinaDEM232830.83%43.78%
Dave HowardLIB2423.20%3.28%
Justice, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 9
Cathy CochranREP55.1685.38%81.89%
William StrangeLIB94414.61%14.11%


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