News

Hard Questions and Answers

Jerry Hopkins Pastor, Clever Creek Baptist Church
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Hard times raise some hard questions and often hard answers. For several years we’ve tried to deal with the most difficult and distressing economic times since the 1930s. We have seen radical changes in government at all levels, particularly in Washington, D.C., and in the economy.
Governor, Lt. Gov., aim to lower property taxes

Governor, Lt. Gov., aim to lower property taxes

Governor, Lt. Gov., aim to lower property taxes

News Staff
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
This time of year reminds us of the importance of faith, family, and community. And with a new year just ahead, I am grateful for the trust you place in me and the opportunity to represent East and Southeast Texas. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
ALL A’S – The S.W. Carter Elementary School third six weeks honor roll students making all A’s (not in order pictured) are third graders Wesley Baylor, Kodi Boren, Robby Brown, Summer Harbison and Brandi Smith; fourth graders Juston Lout, Joey Stringer and Carrie Taylor; and fifth graders Joez Jones, Raegan Jones, Stephanie O’Rear, J.B. Raymond, Rebecca Reed, Matthew Gregston, Kristen Cartwright, Katherine Brown and Lupe Vazquez. (Staff photo by Mary Lou Lout)

ALL A’S – The S.W. Carter Elementary School third six weeks honor roll students making all A’s (not in order pictured) are third graders Wesley Baylor, Kodi Boren, Robby Brown, Summer Harbison and Brandi Smith; fourth graders Juston Lout, Joey Stringer and Carrie Taylor; and fifth graders Joez Jones, Raegan Jones, Stephanie O’Rear, J.B. Raymond, Rebecca Reed, Matthew Gregston, Kristen Cartwright, Katherine Brown and Lupe Vazquez. (Staff photo by Mary Lou Lout)

PICTURE FROM OUR PAST

News Staff
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
From the Tuesday, Feb. 5, 1991 issue of the Light and Champion
2026 – What, It’s Here Already?

2026 – What, It’s Here Already?

2026 – What, It’s Here Already?

Terri Lacher Community Columnist
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
We recently remembered a quote which was shared with our family during a particularly difficult time. It said, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.” (author unknown). I think He must be laughing a lot right about now.I had great plans for 2025.

SCOM expresses thanks for Christmas support

News Staff
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
On behalf of the entire team at Shelby County Outreach Ministries, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors who made the “Merry Christmas Elvis Style” fundraiser a spectacular success!Your commitment and support are truly appreciated.
Resolutions are so overrated

Resolutions are so overrated

Resolutions are so overrated

Leon Aldridge Community Columnist
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
“Tonight’s December thirty-first, Something is about to burst … Hark, it’s midnight, children dear. Duck! Here comes another year!” —Ogden Nash, (1902 – 1971) American poet declared by The New York Times as the country’s best-known producer of humorous poetry.

January 2026

News Staff
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
January 2026 1 • NA/AA—We can help. Meetings: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church. • The Shelby County historical courthouse is open for tours Thursdays and Fridays from 1 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. For general questions, call the Chamber of Commerce at 936-598-3682.
Shelby County Jail Log

Shelby County Jail Log

Shelby County Jail Log

Hammers, Jeremy
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
While the individuals listed have been arrested and charged with criminal offenses, by law, they are innocent until proven guilty. These listings are obtained from the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and are a matter of public record.

Power In Powerful Prayer

Brandon Jones Pastor, Center Missionary Baptist
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
The Altar of Incense in the Old Testament, also called the Way of Intercession, is symbolic of the prayers of the people. As the priest burned the incense on the altar, the smoke rose up to God as a sweet fragrance, as do the prayers of God’s children, but this altar had to be purified once a year.
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