KTBB News, Weather, Talk

TYLER — Farm Service Agency is now accepting applications for emergency farm loans due to damages and losses caused by drought occurring on October 1, 2019 and continuing in Anderson, Cherokee, Henderson, Smith and Van Zandt Counties. Additional information regarding Disaster Assistance Programs may be found online at http://disaster.fsa.usda.go. The deadline for applications is June 15, 2020, but often a backlog happens and causes delays, so farmers are encouraged to apply right away. Continue reading FSA Accepting Applications for Several Counties

LONGVIEW — Longview Police say that just before 4 p.m. a shooting victim was taken to Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center. The victim says he went to the park on El Paso Street after a friend was not home. The suspect was identified as Lederrion Negio Brooks, 23, of Longview, allegedly shot the victim. A friend was able to drag him into the car and transport him to the hospital. Police located Brooks later in the evening and he was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and booked into the Gregg County Jail. Bond was set at $125,000.

LONGVIEW — US News & World Report released its annual ratings of the best nursing homes in the country on Tuesday. According to the outlet, there are 69 communities in Texas that earned a “High Performing” designation for 2019-20, and 2 of them are in Longview, and 1 is in Tyler. Buckner Westminster Place and Summer Meadows of Longview and The Center at Grande in Tyler, all made the list as high performing in short-term rehabilitation.

TYLER — Saturday was the National Drug Enforcement Agency’s Take Back Day. Tyler Police announced Wednesday, that the results are in for Tyler. Numbers confirmed by the DEA say 33 large boxes contained a total of 599 pounds of medications turned in to officials. In Marshall, nearly 400 lbs of drugs were turned over to the DEA in Tyler. Marshall authorities say that was a culmination of the take back event, drop offs at the station, and collections by officer’s in the last 6 months.

HARRISON COUNTY — A traffic violation in Harrison County on Tuesday afternoon lead to a large detection. According to our news partner KETK, a Harrison County K-9 officer uncovered nearly 400 pounds of marijuana in a semi-trailer. K-9 Hank and his handler were called to the scene after the semi-trailer driven by Brandon Beck, of Chicago was pulled over for a traffic violation. Deputies were skeptical of Beck’s story and decided it needed “further investigating.” Continue reading E TX K-9 Officer Discovers 400 Lbs of Marijuana

KILGORE — Kilgore police have identified a body discovered this past weekend as Larry Wheeler. According to our news partner KETK, Wheeler had been unaccounted for since October 18. Authorities say that two young men found the body Saturday afternoon. Investigators determined Wheeler had been dead for an extended period of time. Wheeler, 63, had a personal ID found on his body. Death could not be determined because his body “had been exposed to the elements.” The body has been sent to Southwestern Forensics in Dallas so that an autopsy could be performed. Wheeler will also be examined by an anthropologist.

TYLER — With the holiday season quickly approaching, patrons will notice several improvements coming to Broadway Square Mall. According to our news partner KETK, the mall has been the sight of much construction, including a new Dick’s Sporting Goods. It is expected to open in the Spring of 2020. A new Longhorn Steakhouse off of the Broadway entrance is nearing the final stages of completion. Officials hope it’s completion will be in time for the Christmas rush. Continue reading Expansion Continues at Broadway Square Mall

TYLER — An East Texan pilot is being recognized nationally. According to our news partner KETK, Lauren Sutherland, a pilot for CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital will be celebrated as the “Flight for Life” Pilot of the Year. Every year, the National EMS Pilot’s Association designates one pilot from crew nominees that represent their organization. Sutherland says she feels blessed to even be a pilot and this reminds her that she’s making a difference. Sutherland will be appreciated next week at the Air Medical Transport Conference in Atlanta. She says her nomination proves her team trusts her and that’s all she could ever ask for.

WHITEHOUSE — Whitehouse announced the hiring of a new Police Chief on Tuesday afternoon. Current Tyler Police Lt. Paul Robeson has been selected to lead the Whitehouse police department. Robeson will begin serving as police chief in Whitehouse on Dec. 2. The Lt. has been with TPD for nearly 2 decades. Robeson started his law enforcement career in Tyler in May 2002, and currently holds a Master Peace Officer License. Robeson was selected as Rookie of the Year and Supervisor of the Year two times. Continue reading Whitehouse Announces New Police Chief

TYLER — Smith County officials have scheduled “Citizen Input Meetings” in each precinct of the county throughout November. Smith County is working on a plan for a new Smith County Courthouse. Before a plan is presented to voters, county officials are gathering public input on whether the public agrees that a new courthouse is needed, where it should go, what factors for consideration are most important, and to answer any questions or listen to any comments citizens may have. Continue reading Community Input Meetings Set for Smith County

TYLER — The Women’s Fund of Smith County announced on Tuesday details for their 12th Annual Power of the Purse Luncheon. The event will take place November 5 at CrossWalk Conference Center, on the campus of Green Acres Baptist Church. This year’s keynote speaker is Sandra Joseph. Joseph is a history-making Broadway star, a bestselling author, and a TEDx speaker. Since 2009, The Women’s Fund of Smith County has awarded over 1.6 million dollars in grants to 32 different initiatives in Smith County. More details can be found by clicking the link. https://womensfundsc.org/. Continue reading Joseph Upcoming Speaker at Power of the Purse

TYLER — Match play began on Monday with the Qualifying Draw to earn a spot into the Main Draw of the RBC Pro Challenge, a USTA Pro Circuit event. It was a day of upsets in the Rose City, with American Katharine Fahey beating seeded Italian Biana Turati. 3-seeded Hanna Chang fell in three sets to fellow American Amy Zhu. The match of the day came as two Americans faced off on center court. Seeded 5 in the Qualifying Draw, Kayla Day walked away with the win, defeating Anastasia Nefedova. Continue reading RBC Pro Challenge in Tyler – Day 1 Results

SMITH COUNTY — Smith County has become the latest ‘Sanctuary County’ in the state for gun rights after Tuesday’s 4-1 vote in favor of the agenda item in Commissioners Court. According to our news partner KETK, with its passage, money and resources will no longer be spent to enforce laws believed to infringe on second amendment rights. Commissioner Terry Phillips is spearheading the move and believes it is the right thing to do with the recent concern of red flag laws and gun confiscation. “Really the constitution, the way I see it, it’s to fight against a tyrannical government, that might come against the people or something, so I just think it’s important that we show our support for the constitution,” said Commissioner Terry Phillips.

MARSHALL — On Monday Marshall police recapped a fatal shooting in the community that claimed the life of 31 year-old Courtney Jamal Johnson. The shooting happened Saturday afternoon around 1:30. Police arrived on Melanie St at the Bel Aire Manor apartment complex to find the male had been shot multiple times. Johnson was pronounced dead by medical personnel. The suspect, Charles Ray Mason, 31, of Marshall was located a short distance from the scene by police. Mason was arrested and charged with one count of Murder, one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, and one count of Tampering with Physical Evidence. Detectives continue to investigate this incident.

JACKSONVILLE — On Monday the annual Trunk or Treat event presented by Jacksonville ISD found hundreds of kids in downtown along with parents with an emphasis on reading. According to our news partner KETK, before the Trunk or Treat event, each campus chose a book to read. During the night, staff dressed as characters from their books, set up a station, and gave away copies. The big picture hope is that parents will develop the habit of reading more to their children.

TYLER — The City of Tyler announced on Tuesday a plan to reconstruct the Harvey Hall conference facility in the Rose Garden complex. According to our news partner KETK, plans also include a revitalization of the historic Mayfair building. It was built as a performing arts center in 1927 and hosted artist like Elvis and Johnny Cash. Officials say the current conference facilities at the present location are outdated and floorplans are not adequate to service modern conference needs. Continue reading New Conference Center Coming to Tyler, Restoration of Mayfair Building

TYLER — A grandmother in the news over the Tatum ISD dress code, was arrested on Friday. According to our news partner KETK, Randi Woodley was charged with Abandoning a Child with no Intent to Return, and on charges of Perjury. Woodley posted bail Saturday and was released. The arrest warrant shows that Woodley continued to send her grandson to school after he had been expelled. The student did not initially meet the economic requirements, but would qualify if Woodley’s Mom, Barbarra Johnson had guardianship. A notarized document was given to the school district showing the child lived with Johnson. Yet, over a month later, it was discovered Trimble was still living with Woodley.

TYLER –This Thursday, be on the lookout for those trick-or-treaters carrying blue buckets. According to our news partner KETK, the blue buckets are a sign that the child has autism. Blue is the color of autism awareness. The buckets came to be after a mother started a campaign for awareness because she had to explain at each house that her son couldn’t speak but she wanted him to enjoy the fun. Blue pumpkins aren’t the only special color to keep your eyes peeled for this Halloween. A teal pumpkin displayed at a home means that the residence offers non-candy treats for children that have food allergies.

LONGVIEW — The City of Longview is reminding residents that public input for the new welcome monument survey is ticking. A public survey on two options for the monument at the intersection of High Street, Mobberly Avenue, and Estes Parkway, needs to be completed in the next week. All responses for the survey must be submitted before Monday, Nov. 4. In an earlier public meeting the city presented various themes and gathered input for the monument development. Continue reading Longview Monument Survey Closes November 4

TYLER — The Tyler and Longview housing market continues to experience steady increase. The Texas Quarterly Housing Report released on Monday showed Tyler home sales increased 5.4%, compared to this time last year. 879 single-family home sales took place, while median price rose to 6.8% to $219,000. In Longview, the median price was up 6.3% with closed sales at 8.9%. Statewide, the Texas housing market experienced steady increases in home sales, increasing 6.4% to 100,733 homes sold. Report is available by clicking the link below.
https://www.texasrealestate.com/wp-content/uploads/TQHR_2019_Q3.pdf

TYLER–TxDOT is planning construction and maintenance work throughout the Tyler district beggining Monday. Smith County will have several project including washout repairs in the ROW on SH 31 west of FM 850. Expect delays in traffic flow due to lane closures. Crews will also be staging equipment on SH 64 from RM 698 to RM 702 for a rehab job. In Gregg County, the I20 overlay project continues with asphalt operations, striping, and placing edgeline rumble strips. Expect alternating daytime lane closures. The complete report for the entire distict is available by clicking the link. https://www.txdot.gov/inside-txdot/media-center/local-news/tyler/053-2019.html

LONGVIEW — CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System will host a FREE, indoor Trick-or-Treat celebration for the Longview community on Halloween! This Thursday from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. CHRISTUS Good Shepherd – on Hawkins Parkway will be the site of the fun. Christus says this will give people an opportunity to start your trick-or-treating early. There will be treats, face painting, games, a photo booth & prizes, all inside.

HENDERSON COUNTY — The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office said a suspect wanted for evading pursuit has been arrested. According to our news partner KETK, Leo Ralph Boyd III was arrested Sunday afternoon by officers with the Chandler Police Department. HCSO had asked for the public’s help in identifying Boyd after he evaded pursuit by multiple law enforcement agencies. Witnesses say multiple law enforcement vehicles were pursuing the suspect on Hwy 31 West. According to HCSO, agencies involved in the chase included Chandler PD, HCSO, Eustace Police Department, Athens Police Department, DPS, and Brownsboro Police Department.

HENDERSON COUNTY — Authorities in Henderson County are engaging the public’s help in identifying a motorcyclist. According to our new partner KETK, on Sunday afternoon a chase ensued on Highway 31 West. Witnesses say several law enforcement vehicles were in pursuit of the suspect. Anyone with information about the suspect is urged to call the sheriff’s office at 903-675-5128 or Henderson County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-545-TIPS. Continue reading Motorcyclist Evades Pursuit Wanted by Authorities

MARSHALL — On Saturday afternoon ,the city of Marshall got reports that a man had been shot at the Bel Aire Manor apartment complex. The male was discovered at the location with several gunshot wounds. Medical personnel determined that he was already dead. The victim’s name is being withheld at this time. Charles Ray Mason, 31, of Marshall was identified by witnesses as the shooter. He was located a short distance from the scene, and arrested on the charge of murder.

TYLER — Preparations are well underway for The Junior League of Tyler’s 41st Annual Mistletoe & Magic Gala, that is moving to Willow Brook Country Club. This year’s fundraising soiree will be held on November 16th. Traditionally, the festivities mark the kick off into the holiday season in Tyler. The evening will include dinner and dancing, music by Manhattan and a live auction you won’t want to miss. The Mistletoe & Magic Gala is open to the public and tickets may be purchased online at http://www.juniorleagueoftyler.org or the Junior League Office on S. Donnybrook Ave. Continue reading Mistletoe & Magic “Kick Off Gala” Nears

TYLER — Children’s playhouses constructed by East Texas businesses and schools will be on display in the downtown Tyler plaza starting Sunday evening through Nov. 2. It is part of a fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity of Smith County. All 6 of the life-sized playhouses have a different theme and will be auctioned off. East Texans place a bid online for their favorite design. The highest on-line bids will continue at a live auction at a ticketed event on Saturday, Nov. 2. Complete rules are available on the website http://www.playhousesontheplaza.com. Continue reading 2019 Playhouses on the Plaza to Debut Sun. Evening

HENDERSON COUNTY — The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office is warning of a text scam related to voter registration. According to our news partner KETK, HSCO says the office has received several calls from county residents who have received text messages saying they are not registered to vote. The messages ask the citizens to reply to the text. On Saturday the department encouraged residents not to reply to the text, should you receive it. If you have concerns about your voter registration status, or just want to check it, you should go to the Texas Secretary of State’s voter registration website and check on it there. We have provided a link to the post that was published by the department below.
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1988463987922829&id=738877892881451

TYLER — Former TJC Tennis Coach John Peterson, whose teams won a combined 25 national championships in just under a quarter century at the helm at Tyler Junior College, will be honored on Tuesday evening. City of Tyler Mayor Martin Heines, has issued a proclamation naming October 29, “John Peterson Day,” for his contributions to the sport of tennis in Tyler and East Texas. The honor falls during the “RBC Pro Challenge” going on this week at the Tyler Athletic and Swim Club. Tyler City Councilman, Linda Sellers, for the district Tyler Athletic and Swim Club is located, will read and present the proclamation. Current TJC Head Men’s and Women’s Head Coach Dash Connell will share personal remarks about John Peterson.