2024 Year in Review

The Journal-Sun has done its best to be the informational resource and historical record for Cass County in 2024. Every year we take a few minutes to look back at the biggest stories of 2024 broken into two weeks In the second six months the biggest stories according to the editor were the transitions of leadership with the Atlanta Chamber and the Linden City Managers. Other notable stories included KPYN/ KALT Radio Station gaining new owners, getting the station back on the airwaves, Cullen Baker Fair turning 50 and the General Elections.

- In the July 3 newspaper, it was announced that Liger Interests opened its Atlanta office for lithium exploration: In their press release, the company announced, that Liger Interests (“Liger”), a leading lithium exploration company in the area has announced that it will open a field office in downtown Atlanta, Texas, located at 116 N. East Street. The office will serve as the headquarters for the company’s operations in the region and will help facilitate its commitment to forming personal partnerships with landowners. Mayor James Brooks is one of the partners.

- On July 3 it was reported that the corporate office of Brookshire’s informed Atlanta P.D. of a bomb threat that had been sent in through their main office. Out of safety, Brookshire’s reached out to the Atlanta Police Department to make them aware of the threat, said Atlanta Police Chief Greg Restelle. They then closed the store, and surrounding establishments were made aware. On July 1 it was announced that the suspect was caught. The operation successfully identified a juvenile suspect responsible for numerous bomb threats and swatting hoaxes across multiple states.

- On July 3 the Journal-Sun reported that Atlanta Independent School District is pleased to announce two significant leadership appointments that will continue to drive the district’s commitment to excellence in education. Colby Boyce, currently serving as the principal of Atlanta Middle School, will transition to the role of Assistant Superintendent of Alternative Education. In this new position, Boyce will concentrate on enhancing alternative education across the district.

His responsibilities will include overseeing the Discipline Alternative Education Program and the Behavioral Alternative Center, spearheading the development of a credit recovery program, and implementing the Stronger Connections Grant. Boyce brings 17 years Stepping into the role of principal at Atlanta Middle School is Jennifer Cross. Cross joins AISD with over 24 years of experience in education, including 16 years in administrative roles.

- On July 3 it was reported that Ethan Sartor, a local DPS Sergeant, went to the annual Uniformed Safety Education Officers Workshop (U.S.E.O.W) in Kansas City, Missouri. All the states submit a TV PSA, radio PSA, public safety presentation, and traffic safety presentation. Ethan won 1st place in the pub- lic safety category with his presentation “The Tech Talk”. Which is a presentation designed for parents to discuss internet safety with teens.

- It was reported that on July 10, 2024, Hurricane Beryl made landfall causing intense weather and flooding to the coastal areas. Cass County and the ArkLaTex region expected heavy rain and possibly tornados potentially causing damage and utility outages. According to reports on the Weather Channel, Cass County was supposed to see anywhere from 3-8” of rainfall Monday to Tuesday morning and under a flood watch. At 6:38 p.m. Monday when this article was written Cass County was under a tornado watch until 10:00 pm. There have already been reports of tornadoes and damage. So far, we have confirmed reports of a tornado in Hughes Springs. The information in this article is fluid. Please follow the link at the end of the article for updated information. Local weather expert Brian Loper expected “4-6” of rain with this storm. Flash floods are possible. We also have a chance for quick short-lived tornadoes. Stay inside and be safe.”

- On July 10 it was reported that a New Boston teen is wanted in connection with a weekend shooting at a local apartment complex that left one Linden teen dead and another in the hospital, police say. The New Boston Police Department has issued a warrant for the arrest of Malaki Beckham, 19, of New Boston, for the shooting that happened at Dogwood Plaza apartments Saturday evening.

- In the July 10 issue, it was reported that the DA who was handling the Russell Soule case decided not to bring it to trial. According to the Gazette, “Russell Soule, 33, of Atlanta, Texas, was released June 7 from Bi-State Detention Center, according to jail records. A letter signed June 7 by Bowie County Assistant District Attorney Katie Carter and entered into court records said a grand jury no billed the case June 6. “’No bill’ is a term to describe a grand jury’s decision that there is insufficient evidence to indict someone on a criminal charge.”

- On Friday, July 12, 2024, TxDOT had a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new State Highway 8 bridge over Lake Wright Patman. According to Texas Department of Transportation officials, it will open to traffic this week.- On July 19 it was reported that on July 9, the Cass County Peace Officers Association recognized two of its younger citizens by presenting lifesaving awards to two young children, who played a big part in heroically saving their month. On April 14, a tragic accident was averted thanks to the quick and decisive actions of Jordan Daniel Trotter and Jaden Josephine Trotter. Grandmother, but the kids refer to her as mother, Rebecca (Becky) Trotter, was operating a zero-turn lawn mower on an incline when it slid into a barbed wire fence, causing her to become entrapped and injured.

Reacting swiftly, Jordan and Jaden made the appropriate emergency calls to 911 to ensure their mother received the help she urgently needed. In the critical moments that followed, Daniel Trotter demonstrated remarkable resourcefulness by locating a set of hedge trimmers and attempting to cut the barbed wire to free his mother. The arrival of family members and first responders provided the necessary assistance to finally extricate Becky from the fence. Despite suffering severe lacerations, Becky was transported by EMS to receive the medical attention she required.

- On July 24 it was reported that the first-ever Atlanta Area Chamber of Commerce Men’s Breakfast is set to take place on Thursday, July 25.

- On July 31 it was reported that Atlanta ISD welcomed new assistant principals. The Atlanta Independent School District is proud to announce the appointment of two new assistant principals for the upcoming academic year. Lauren Anderson has joined Atlanta Middle School, while Brad Baca is taking on his new role at Atlanta High School. Anderson and Baca, each with unique experiences and a shared commitment to supporting teachers and students, are set to bring a fresh perspective to their roles. Their combined efforts will enhance the educational environment and foster a supportive community within their respective schools.

- On July 31 it was reported that Russell Soule, from Atlanta, Texas, who confessed to killing his girlfriend, Lindsey Torres, back in 2017 would in fact face murder charges. He had previously been released on June 7, from Bi-State Detention Center, because of insufficient evidence. - On August 7 the Journal- Sun published an update from Judge Travis Ransom. “Last week I had the opportunity to attend and speak at the TEX-21 Statewide Transportation meeting. Cass County is a member of this group thanks to the Cass County Economic Development Consortium which was formed last year between the Cities of Atlanta, Avinger, Linden, Hughes Springs, and Queen City. In the report, he talked about a variety of subjects including economic growth and roads.

- On August 7 it was reported with very few new details that former Atlanta ISD coach and teacher Taureaus Alvaro Maxwell Jr. has been convicted of eight felonies involving improper relationships with minors. According to reports he has received 160 years and a $80,000 fine.

- On August 7 it was reported that Linden City Manager/ EDC Director announced to the Linden Lions Club Thursday that he would soon be leaving his position.

- (August 7 issue) Cass County Economic Development Consortium received an award for Management Innovation at the Texas Municipal League Conference last year. The City of Linden is the administrative lead for the consortium and was one of six Texas cities to be acknowledged by the Texas Municipal League for innovation. Pictured from left to right are Former Hughes Springs City Administrator Stephen Barnes, Atlanta City Manager Danica Porter, Linden City Administrator Lee Elliott, Cass County Judge Travis Ransom, Linden City Councilmember Mary Dowd, Linden City Councilmember Bill Thomas and Linden Assistant City Administrator Megan Kirkland. One of the first actions the group took was to partner with Cass County to join as a voting member in TEX-21.

- (August 7) Genesis PrimeCare was selected to receive the “Stand Up for Texas Public Schools” honor during an Atlanta ISD board meeting on July 23. The honor is a testament to Genesis PrimeCare’s commitment to educational

excellence and its substantial impact on the Atlanta community. From left is: Jason Harris-Superintendent Atlanta ISD, Ray Delk-Director of Ancillary Services-Genesis PrimeCare Ellington Memorial Clinic, Angela Thompson-Family Engagement Atlanta ISD, Carla Roadcap-CEO Genesis Prime-Care Ellington Memorial Clinic, Keith Creel-Chief Operating Officer Genesis PrimeCare Ellington Clinic, Bobbi Jo Robison-Community Liaison Genesis PrimeCare Clinics, Charlotte Mitchell-Director of Marketing Genesis Prime-Care Clinics and Charlotte Stanley-Board President Atlanta ISD.

- (August 14) Linden-Kildare ISD sees a number of facility upgrades including paint, flooring, gym floors, track resurfacing, among other things. Volleyball players practice on their new floor on August 12. Next week we will share pictures of the changes, bringing in a lot of school pride for the 2024-25 school year.

- On August 14 the Journal-Sun gave more details on the Maxwell Conviction. Cass County District Attorney released a statement to the media on August 6, announcing the conviction of Taureaus Alvaro Maxwell Jr. (DOB: 11/25/1992. Unfortunately, the paper had already gone to press so we only announced the conviction of Maxwell. The Journal-Sun continues to get information on the case and also received a quote from Jason Harrist, the Atlanta ISD Superintendent. In the August 6 release from Shelton, it was announced that “on Friday, August 2, 2024, a Cass County jury convicted Taureaus Alvaro Maxwell, 31, a former teacher and coach at Atlanta Independent School District, of four counts of Indecency with a Child by Contact and four counts of Improper Relationship between Educator and Student. After conviction, additional evidence was presented, and the jury assessed the maximum sentence of 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Institutional Division, along with a $10,000 fine, on each charge.

- Tracy Lawrence was inducted into the Texas Country Hall of Fame on Saturday, August 10. Lawrence performed at the event in Carthage, Texas where the Hall of Fame is located. The singer/ songwriter/record producer was born in Atlanta, Texas, and then raised in Foreman, Arkansas.

- US House Texas, District 1 Congressman Nathaniel Moran spoke at the Town Hall & Tamales event Monday night sponsored by the Cass County RPT.

- Jay and Jennifer Owens, owners of Atlanta’s 903 Baseball and Softball Academy, pose for a photo with the Texas Rangers’ Commissioners Trophy last Saturday afternoon. The trophy tour is in full swing as fans of both the Rangers and baseball in general flock to see the World Series accolade the Rangers brought home after defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks in game five of the World Series last season. Photo by Tim Emmons - It was announced through the Cass County Connect newsletter that Cass County Sheriff Larry Rowe was recently appointed to serve on the statewide board for the Sheriff’s Association of Texas. Sheriff Rowe was sworn into office at the 146th Annual Conference of the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas in Fort Worth. This marks the first time a Cass County Sheriff has served in the statewide position. The Sheriffs’ Association of Texas is one of the oldest law enforcement associations in the nation. The Sheriffs’ Association of Texas met for the first time on August 14, 1874, in the courthouse in Corsicana, Navarro County, Texas.

- On August 24 the Journal-Sun did a story with John Burba, who some call the Godfather of Lithium.

- (August 24 Edition) Barry Dewayne Abney of Texarkana pleaded guilty to the third-degree felony offense of injury to a child and was sentenced on August 12.

- In the August 24 issue of the Journal-Sun, it was announced that long-time barber Melvin Coats had passed. The Journal-Sun reprinted a tribute to him from Travis Ransom.

- In the September 4 issue of the Journal-Sun, the newspaper highlighted the changes at Linden-Kildare ISD. As Linden-Kildare students approach the 2024-25 school year there are several new things to look forward to and a few to get used to. Earlier this year Linden-Kildare CISD announced they were closing the Mae Luster Stephens Junior High immediately and most likely permanently. They moved students to the High School this school year. Earlier this year Rex Burks, the acting Linden Kildare CISD Superintendent, announced the move. At the time Burks said many parents were concerned about mixing the two campuses for safety reasons, however, even though the students were on the same campus, the junior high students would be in a separate building most of the day which many called the “Second Hall”.

- September 4: Three outstanding former Atlanta Rabbit athletes have been selected to enter the Hall of Fame (HOF) as members of the Class of 2024. Two football players who had extended careers before and after World War II were selected. They are Richard “Bull” Johnson and Duncan Thompson who both turned down chances to play in the NFL for high school coaching positions. The Lady Rabb chosen is Melissa Waddell who was a three-sport star at Atlanta High and enjoyed a college sports career before 25 years in the coaching ranks. She recently returned to Atlanta as the Lady Rabb Volleyball Coach.

- September 11: Attorney Tony Buzbee has announced that he will be representing three of the victims of the Taureaus Maxwell sexual abuse case. The Cass County District Attorney released a statement to the media on August 6, announcing the conviction of Taureaus Alvaro Maxwell Jr.

- On September 18 the Journal-Sun did a story on the Linden-Kildare football coach situation. Social media was abuzz with information circulating that the newly appointed AD and Coach reportedly quit during the second game of the season. Jason Ferguson came into the season with high expectations, but it was apparent it wasn’t going to be a good fit. There was so much chatter on football forums that both Dave Campbell’s Texas Football and Sports Illustrated reported on the situation. In an article on Dave Campbell’s texasfootball.com that was updated Monday, September 16, 2024, Matt Stepp noted that “the saga started for Linden- Kildare on April 29 when the district named Jason Ferguson as their next athletic director and head football coach. Ferguson’s resume on the field as a coach is excellent, holding a career 57-26 record with stops at DeLeon, Memphis and Shelbyville. Ferguson’s tenure at Shelbyville was cut short halfway through the 2016 season after an arrest.”

- On September 18 we published a press release from District Attorney Courtney Shelton addressing the area bomb threats… Several months back the Brookshire’s stores were threatened with a bomb threat hoax. It has recently happened again in Cass County and the Northeast Texas area. District Attorney Courtney Shelton issues this press release on September 16 with the hopes of community conversations with area youth.

- On September 18 we published a press release from District Attorney Courtney Shelton addressing the area bomb threats. The Cass County District Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Cass County Sheriff ’s Department, would like to address recent incidents this past week of threats being made against some local schools. Unfortunately, these types of threats and hoaxes have been occurring more frequently in communities across the country - including in Sulphur Springs, Gilmer, and recently Texarkana, and Cass County is not immune. We want to reassure the public that each of these incidents is being thoroughly investigated, and we remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of oil Cass County residents.

- September 18: Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced Cass County is the latest local government entity to achieve a Transparency Star in recognition of excellence in debt obligations. This marks the second award for financial transparency this year for Cass County. Transparency Stars recognizes local government entities that provide easy online access to important financial data. The Comptroller’s office launched the Transparency Stars program in March 2016 to recognize cities, counties and school districts making important strides toward greater government transparency.

- On September 25 the Journal-Sun reported that DFW water planners (Region C) are meeting to advance the controversial Marvin Nichols Reservoir in the state water planning process on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Preservenortheasttexas.org, supplied information about the meeting.

- The Journal-Sun reported on September 25 that “the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced over $3 billion for 25 selected projects across 14 states to boost the domestic production of advanced batteries and battery materials nationwide. The portfolio of selected projects, once fully contracted, are projected to support over 8,000 construction jobs and over 4,000 operating jobs.” The Ark-LaTex area should benefit from a portion of the money as Vancouver-based Standard Lithium which already operates in the region and Houston-based TerraVolta Resources will receive 225 million dollars each “aimed at expanding domestic manufacturing of all segments of the battery supply chain and increasing production of critical minerals in the U.S.”

- The Atlanta Historical Museum is pleased to announce the opening of its new permanent exhibition, Brave Bessie: Soaring Above Barriers. The exhibit celebrates the life and achievements of Atlanta native, Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman, and woman of Native American descent, to earn a pilot’s license. Visitors can explore a 2/3-scale model Curtis JN “Jenny” plane, watch footage of 1920s barnstormers, and view new museum items and photographs. Large interpretive panels tell the story of Bessie’s remarkable life, from her childhood in Texas to her untimely death in Florida, and the triumphs and tribulations she experienced in-between.

- Hunter Parker and Antonianna Gamble were crowned Homecoming King and Queen before Queen City’s football game against White Oak last Friday night. - (October 2 Issue) On November 8, 2023, KPYN ceased broadcasting in the Atlanta Area According to radioinsight.com “the six stations owned by Robert Delgiorno’s Freed AM Corp. and MLS Broadcasting in the Ark- La-Tex have ceased operations.” A “brief statement on each station’s FCC filing to go silent simply states, “The licensee is suspending operations of this station for financial reasons.” “KPYN was heard on 95.5 FM and 103.9 FM through translators located in Atlanta, Texas. It broadcasted the Rabbit’s sports games, with the sister station broadcasting the Bulldogs’ games.” On September 13 it was announced on radioinsight.com that the station was sold to former KPYN disc jockey Jim Davenport. The two principal operators are Davenport and Randy Smith.

- (October 2 issue) Governor Greg Abbott today announced eight Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) grants totaling more than $1.4 million were awarded to eight organizations in East Texas as part of the Texas Veterans Commission’s (TVC) Grants Across Texas presentations. Presented by TVC today, the funding will provide services to more than 690 veterans and their families across 38 counties. The FVA grant recipients and their services included a $300,000 grant to Cass County for financial assistance Deep East Texas Council of Governments and Economic Development District - Bowie County Tribune publisher gave an update on Marvin Nichols in the October 2 issue… In the last session of the Texas legislature in 2023, the Texas Water Development Board was given the task of conducting a feasibility study on Marvin Nichols Reservoir. The study was to focus on the specific directives of analyzing the economic impacts, timeline, associated costs and the land acquisitions necessary to construct the massive reservoir in the Sulphur River Basin of Northeast Texas. A part of that process was to hear from citizens about their thoughts on the projects, and the TWDB reported that they had received more than 100 submissions to review. Texas Governor Greg Abbott went on record last February noting that there had to be options for the water needs across Texas other than the massive landgrab that Marvin Nichols would be. Governor Abbott stated, “There are water needs, whether it be in the Dallas area or even in the Tyler area. But what we must do, we must

u See REVIEW page 3 explore other options before we start taking people’s lands or flooding property that’s been around for literally centuries.”

- On October 16 Kathy Peacock issued a press release telling the community that the Cullen Baker Country Fair will be celebrating its 50th-year celebration on November 2, 2024, in downtown Bloomburg, Texas from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. With live music from six different entertainers playing throughout the event, they will wrap up the event with a street dance from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

- In the October 23 paper, it was announced that Don Henley will be re-releasing his Cass County album as part of his announcement to re-release two of his earlier solo albums. “I Can’t Stand Still” & “Cass County”. Henley, who is a founding member of the legendary rock band The Eagles, originally grew up in Linden, Texas and subsequently titled one of his albums after Cass County. According to a release on October 8, 2024, it was noted that “more than 30 years later, in 2015, Henley returned to his country roots with “Cass County”. Named after the Texas county where he grew up, the album features collaborations with legends like Vince Gill, Merle Haggard, Mick Jagger, Alison Krauss, Martina McBride, Dolly Parton, and Trisha Yearwood, among others. Cass County debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, earning praise for its authenticity and heartfelt songwriting. The original EP release featured the iconic Linden Water Tower on the back of the album.

- October 23 - Fidelity Communication is now Sparklight - (October 30 Issue) Caddo Lake is a 2024 American thriller film written and directed by Celine Held and Logan George. It centers around Caddo Lake which resides only a few miles away from Cass County sitting in both Texas and Louisiana. In 2021 there were open casting calls for those in the area. The horror/mystery released on HBO/’MAX just in time for Halloween stars Dylan O’Brien, Eliza Scanlen, Diana Hopper, Caroline Falk, Sam Hennings, Eric Lange, and Lauren Ambrose. M. Night Shyamalan (The Sixth Sense, Signs, etc.) serves as a producer under his Blinding Edge Pictures company, with award-winning directors, Celine Held and Logan George of ELO FILMS - In the October 30 issue of the Journal-Sun announced that Dr. Thelma Mothershed- one of the famous “Little Rock Nine” passed away on October 19, 2024. Mothershed was born in Bloomburg, Texas on November 29, 1940. She and eight other black students were handpicked by the NAACP to attend the previously all-white Little Rock Central High, selected on the criteria of excellent grades and attendance along with a fortitude to persevere. - On November 6 the Journal-Sun announced that two lithium news-related stories have crossed the wires over the last few weeks. First, a U.S. Geological Survey-led study estimated between 5 and 19 million tons of lithium reserves are located beneath southwestern Arkansas on the border of Texas. It was also recently announced that “StartUp Junkie Consulting will support small businesses in leveraging Lithium for the clean energy and electric vehicle transition across Northeast Texas, Southern Arkansas, Northern Louisiana, and West Mississippi.”

- On November 13 we announced the results of the November election that among other things elected Donald Trump again to the White House. Nearly 65% of registered voters turned out for the 2024 November 5, Primary Election. Very few local elections were held, with a handful of judicial picks, constables, and commissioners listed on the ballot, with many other races being uncontested.

Two larger races that affected our area, U.S. Representative District 1 and State Representative District 1 were both uncontested. The county overwhelmingly supported Republican Candidates. No national, statewide, or local laws or propositions were voted on in this election cycle here in the County.

As of when this newspaper was published, former President Republican Donald J. Trump defeated current Vice President Kamala Harris. Senator Ted Cruz kept his senate seat against Colin Zachary Allred an American politician, civil rights lawyer, and former professional football player serving as the U.S. representative from Texas’s 32nd congressional district since 2019. Cruz’s seat was one of many held by the Republicans along with gaining several more to take back the U.S. Senate. Nathan Moran ran unopposed for U.S. Representative District 1. It looks promising to Republicans that they will retain control of the house, currently leading 214 to 203, needing 218 for victory. State Representative District 1 Gary VanDeaver ran unopposed. Republicans still retain both the House and the Senate.

- Texas Forestry Association (TFA) presented Charles and Sue Snowden of Cass County with the 2024 Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year Award during its annual meeting held Oct. 23-25, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in Conroe, Texas.

- On November 20the Journal Sun announced that CHRISTUS Health hospitals in Texarkana and Atlanta have earned the top rating for health care safety from the Leapfrog Group, a national watchdog organization that assigns grades to U.S. hospitals based on their ability to prevent medical errors and harm to patients.

- On November 20 the missing Queen City man who the Queen City Police department had issued a missing persons alert was found deceased. Ronald Ray Chitty the man who had been missing since October 11, 2024, in Queen City, Texas has been found deceased. There was a missing person’s report for Chitty, a 56 white male, 6 11” 160, with blue eyes, and brown balding hair who was wearing a black shirt, blue jeans, and black shoes. Chitty had suffered from several medical disorders and had not been on medication since his disappearance. His body was found on Highway 96 on the 400 block on November 10, according to Queen City Police Chief McGee, who also said that at this time they have sent his body for autopsy for a cause of death.

- In the November 27 paper, Jill Crocker announced her resignation from the Atlanta Area Chamber of Commerce effective at the end of 2024. In her time at the chamber, the organization has grown exponentially, seeing 32% growth, while working to strengthen its role as a pivotal force in the region’s business landscape. In a statement to the Journal Sun, Jill reflected on her tenure, saying, “It has been an incredible honor to serve as the President of this Chamber. Together with our dedicated team and members, we’ve made significant strides in fostering stronger community engagement, advancing volunteerism, and elevating awareness of local business practices. These achievements reflect not just the work of one individual, but the collective effort of our vibrant business community.”

- (November 27 issue) Atlanta, Texas man Timothy Demery was arrested for multiple accounts including terroristic acts and discharging a firearm from a vehicle. On, Nov. 17, 2024, at approximately 2:05 p.m., officers from the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department received multiple 911 calls regarding gunshots in the area of Vernal and Bramble St. Upon arrival, officers located numerous spent cartridge cases on the street at the intersection of Vernal Street and Bramble Street. After locating evidence. A short time later, officers from the Texarkana Texas Police Department advised Tracy Davis, age 26, had arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to the head and was possibly related to this incident. Davis is currently in critical condition. Detectives from the Criminal Investigation Division arrived to investigate the incident. During the investigation, detectives discovered the suspects involved in this incident arrived at this location and began firing into a residence on Vernal St. During the exchange of gunfire, Davis was struck in the head by another one of his fellow accomplices and the suspect vehicle fled the scene to seek medical attention for Davis’s injury. It was later determined by detectives that Timothy Demery of Atlanta, Texas, age 21, was the driver of the suspect vehicle. Demery was placed under arrest for Terrorist Act, 66 counts, Tampering with Evidence, and Discharging a Firearm from a Vehicle. At this time, no additional suspects have been identified.

- 50 years of Cullen Baker Country Fair: Teena Westmoreland is all alone leading the parade of the 50th annual Cullen Baker Country Fair in Bloomburg on Saturday. A long line of parades are behind her and Main Street is already crowded. Westmoreland is representing a leading historical family business - the Lester Westmoreland’s General Merchandise Store.

- Texas Forestry Association (TFA) presented Charles and Sue Snowden of Cass County with the 2024 Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year Award during its annual meeting held Oct. 23-25, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in Conroe, Texas.

- In the December 4 issue of the Journal-Sun it was reported that Atlanta Library worker Diana Fulks worker had lost her life in a house fire and that her husband was taken to the hospital for injuries.

- On December 18 the Journal-Sun announced that Tammy Davenport would be the new Chamber president for Atlanta. “The Atlanta Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce Tammy Davenport as the new Chamber president. With over 23 years in banking and current roles in real estate and insurance, Tammy brings a passion for community and a commitment to supporting local businesses. She is also known as a “Pink Lady”. Tammy has been a Mary Kay representative for over 30 years!”

- In a press release sent out on December 18 from Queen City ISD, it was reported that “on December 9, 2024, former employee David Gaskin allegedly used pepper spray on a student in violation of: (1) his training as a peace officer; (2) multiple school board policies; and (3) Texas law. Interim Superintendent of Schools, Shannon Henderson, suspended Mr. Gaskin’s employment and notified law enforcement. “ - The Journal-Sun reported on December 18 that on December 13 Miranda Johnson, Executive Director of the Atlanta City Development Corporation, has been appointed to the Economic Development Regional Seat on the Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas Board of Directors. Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas represents nine counties and is one of 28 Local Workforce Development Boards across the state under the umbrella of the Texas Workforce Commission.

- On December 25 it was announced that GFWC Texas and GFWC Amity Study Club are on a mission to educate individuals about human trafficking. They will be holding a workshop on January 11, 2025.

- Atlanta students participate in Macy’s parade (Left Picture) Ryleigh Thompson marched in the Macy’s Great American Marching Band. (Right Picture) Students of the Tammie Duncan School of Dance participated by special invitation In the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC. The students joined with Spirit of America Dancers from all across the US. The group rehearsed prior to the event on the routine and then joined the others to present the performance for NBC. Students participating include -BRLR Stella Dunlap, Ella Kate McCasland, Amber Westbrook, Kynleigh Adcock, Anna Harbison. FRLR- Addison Sloan, Jacee Quaid, Reagan Thompson, Ella Stewart, Brooklyn Thompson and Emma Allen.

- Shop with a cop was a rousing success in 2024, boasting the largest participation yet. According to DPS Sergeant Ethan Sartor, “This was the largest shop with a cop to date in Cass County with 50 total children participating. It’s also the only time we’ve ever been able to have participants from every school district in the county, typically we’ve had to cycle west side schools one year, then east side the next. However, this year we had Atlanta, QC, Avinger, McLeod, Linden, Hughes Springs, Bloomburg and three home-schooled children. The funds were raised through community events, the biggest being shop with a cop bingo that we held this last year. Walmart also provided a large amount of the funding as well as other individuals and businesses in the area.” -Ethan Sartor - Newly selected city manager for Linden, Stephen Barnes, (seated left) is spending this week discussing with current city manager Lee Elliott over continuing Linden progress. After three years, Elliott is relinquishing his city manager role this week. Barnes will be presented for remarks to the Linden Lions Club Thursday. The Citizens Journal-Sun will be present to publicize this new change in city government for Linden.