50 Years Ago in Shelby County

Christmas SuperstitionsMattie Dellinger shares “Christmas Superstitions” in her Wise and Otherwise Column in the Dec. 24, 1975, Champion paper.“Old timers will tell you that Christmas weather predicts the climate for the rest of the year.

PICTURE FROM OUR PAST

EIGHTH GRADE CHAMPIONS – For only the second time since 1976, the Center eighth grade girls captured both the District 22-3A basketball and track championships in the same school year.

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

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.

A Story Worth Telling

“There is an angel close to you this day. Merry Christmas, and I wish you well.”—Paul Crume (1912 –1975) Dallas Morning News columnist who wrote a front-page column every day for 24 years.

ERCOT claims little chance of blackouts

ERCOT: Little chance of blackouts this winter Winter has officially arrived, and officials with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas say the Texas power grid is expected to hold up through most weather conditions, the Houston Chronicle reported.

Cobwebs in the Attic

Why is it that this time of the year seems like it is attached to a Radio Flyer, rolling downhill at 55 miles per hour with no brakes?

Going once, going twice, sold!

Taylor Buster auctions off an item during what is believed to be the county’s first public live auction, held Friday, Dec. 19. The auction featured surplus and salvage property from Pcts 1, 2, and 3, as well as several vehicles from the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

SO helps fill Santa’s sleigh

One of Santa’s elves and his pal, The Grinch, display some of the many donations received as part of Fill the Cruiser, the Shelby County Sheriff’s office’s effort to assist the Center Police Department’s Blue Santa project.

Cost-share program available for Pine Beetle prevention aid

Texas A&M Forest Service is offering landowners financial and technical assistance through the Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program. Applications for this cost-share program are open now and will close on Jan. 31, 2026, at midnight.

SRT opens essay up contest submissions

The Sons of the Republic of Texas (SRT) are pleased to announce that the submission period for the 20252026 Texas History Essay Contest is now open.The contest is open to all graduating high school seniors (including home-schooled students).