KTBB News, Weather, Talk

HENDERSON — Police in Henderson are investigating a Homicide. It was reported around 5:00 Sunday on Wilson Street. According to the department’s Facebook page, officers responding to a shots fired call found the body of Sabrien Walton, 45. An arrest warrant was issued for Gary Jordan Jr. , 29. Officers said he is considered armed and dangerous. Jordan was driving a tan 1998 Chevy S-10 single cab pickup with Texas License Plate MTZ5120. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Henderson Police Department: 903-657-3512.

TYLER — Tyler ISD says schools will begin lessons online Monday through virtual learning. According to our news partner KETK, students and teachers will work through a portal with a grade-specific curriculum. TISD Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford said he and district educators understand that “this is not a sprint.” He said the pace of learning will change under this new system, but that the district is doing what it can to keep education at the forefront. The system is new for everyone, and all will have to practice patience as they navigate through it. Continue reading Tyler ISD Launches ‘Distance Learning’ Portal

TYLER – TxDOT is planning to conduct a range of construction and maintenance work around the Tyler District during the week of March 30. In Smith County, caution is advised Wednesday as a new eastbound frontage road opens on I-20 at US 69 and the existing entrance ramp closes for removal. There will be no I-20 access for US 69 traffic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the removal process. Go to https://www.txdot.gov/inside-txdot/media-center/local-news/tyler/014-2020.html for a complete rundown of work planned around the district in the coming week.

TYLER — The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is now accepting applications for emergency farm loans due to damages and losses caused by drought occurring on November 1, 2019 and continuing in Anderson, Cherokee, Gregg, Henderson, Rusk, Smith, Upshur and Van Zandt Counties. Smith County Farm Loan Manager Clinton Warrick asks farmers who want to apply for emergency loans to submit their applications as soon as possible. The deadline for applications is November 7, 2020, but Warrick says if farmers wait too long, a backlog will develop and cause delays. Generally, farmers who have lost 30% of their production or any physical loss due to the disaster are eligible for the emergency loans. Continue reading FSA Accepting Disaster Applications

TYLER — With 31 cases of coronavirus reported as of noon Sunday, Smith County remains under a stay-at-home order. As the spread of the virus continues, many people have questions about the order. Speaking to KTBB, County Judge Nathaniel Moran addressed uncertainties about recreational activities, such as going to parks. “The best advice I can give to individuals in the community is just to reduce their interpersonal interactions with other individuals,” said Moran. There’s studies that show that if you reduce those interactions by 75 per cent, getting down to 25 per cent of our current level, that that can significantly reduce the spread of COVID-19. So the closer you stay to home, the less travel you have to do, the less activity that’s done — even if it’s essential activity on a daily basis — that will help prevent the spread of COVID-19.” Continue reading Moran Addresses Questions about Stay-at-Home Order; 31 COVID-19 Cases Reported in Smith County

EAST TEXAS – Rusk County is reporting its third case of COVID-19. According to our news partner KETK, the new case and others bring the number of reported COVID-19 cases in East Texas to 49. Meantime, Cherokee County has reported its second case. The Cherokee County case is travel related, according to the Cherokee County Public Health Department, and the patient is recovering at home under isolation. Also, Henderson County is reporting its first COVID-19 case. In letter, Henderson County officials say, “The patient has not had any travel history and is believed to have contracted the virus due to community spread.” The patient is not hospitalized, the letter said, “and is in her home with her family, who will be quarantined.” Continue reading New Cases of COVID-19 in Rusk, Henderson, Cherokee Counties

TYLER — The East Texas Food Bank is continuing emergency food box distribution in partnership with Tyler ISD for the week of March 30-April 3. Food Bank representatives will be at the following Tyler sites from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monday- TJ Austin
Tuesday- Griffin, Caldwell and Boulter
Wednesday- Peete, Moore and Hubbard
Thursday- Griffin, Caldwell and Boulter
Friday- Three Lakes, Moore and Hubbard

TYLER — Tyler police are seeking to quell some residents’ concerns that they may be stopped while traveling during the current county-wide stay-at-home order. The police department has posted a statement on its Facebook page that reads, in part, “While residents of Tyler are free to leave their homes to conduct defined essential activities, Tyler PD WILL NOT stop or contact you solely to determine your purpose for travel. Per the Stay-at-Home order, you do not need a form declaring where you work or where you are traveling. We WILL work with you and help educate our public in an effort to gain compliance with all declarations and executive orders. Enforcement action will be taken only as necessary.” Click here for more information on the Smith County stay-at-home order.

TYLER — NET Health has confirmed the second death in East Texas related to COVID-19. According to a news release, the individual was a 47-year-old female who was hospitalized for treatment of COVID-19 symptoms, and was the confirmed case announced by Van Zandt County on March 18. “The public has the responsibility, more than ever, to follow recommendations from health officials,” says George Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of NET Health, in the news release. “This is now a team sport. It is critical for everyone to play their part and to help us “flatten the curve” of COVID-19 having a devastating impact in East Texas.” Continue reading Second COVID-19 Related Death in East Texas

PALESTINE — The city of Palestine has issued a statement addressing concerns related to public meetings in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Officials say, in part, “Continuing efforts have been authorized and are underway to improve by making all adjustments needed to ensure that future City Council meetings which may be completely remote and electronic will allow for the public and press to participate in a way that ensures they can both hear and comment on the items under discussion.” Continue reading Palestine Addresses Coronavirus-Related Meeting Issues

LONGVIEW — The Longview 150 Parade has been rescheduled for Aug. 29,at 10 a.m. in Downtown Longview. The rain date for the parade is Sept. 12. Main Street co-rdinator Melida Heien said in a press release on Friday, “While rescheduling events of this magnitude is always difficult, we really wanted to continue to celebrate our community’s big birthday. It definitely gives us something to look forward to with hope that better days are ahead.” Continue reading Longview 150 Parade Rescheduled

GREGG COUNTY — On Thursday, Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt told KTBB the intent behind issuing a mandatory shelter in place is to bring awareness and flatten that coranaviurs curve, and the only way to do it, is to quit gathering in large crowds.” Longview Public Information Officer Shawn Hara told KTBB originally they left the decision totally up to individuals, but if we get some of these returns back and we see we have these positive cases for sure then we are going to go to that mandatory. So, that’s what they did, because the very next day, we had two more confirmed cases.” Stoudt continued, “we are not trying to stop commerce, we want you to work if necessary, we want you to go and get your groceries, but don’t take the whole family to the store. This is a serious issue.” The mandate begins at 11:59 p.m Thursday night.

WASHINGTON D.C. — Congressmen Louie Gohmert told KTBB on Friday, “the $2 Trillion plan was passed in the House and then President Trump signed it shortly thereafter.” Every person making $100,000 or less, or every couple making $200,000 or less will get a check in the mail. The check will be for $1,200 per adult, $2,400 per couple and $500 per child. When asked how soon East Texans could expect some relief, the District 1 Congressman from Texas said, “Very soon, we know families and small businesses are needing help. Businesses have got to have some liquidity quickly to pay their employees and make their monthly payments just to stay in business and avoid bankruptcy they need to go ahead and be looking at small business loans through banks. Steve Mnuchin was explaining to me that if it’s an FDIC bank or an approved Federal Credit Union then they expect them to be able to make those loans and them be able to get those loans directly.” Continue reading $2 Trillion Dollar Package Signed by President Trump

WHITE OAK — Police are looking for a suspect who robbed a convenience store clerk at gun-point. According to our news partner KETK, the robbery took place just after 8 p.m. Thursday night. An employee at the store said the robber came into the store, demanding money while showing a handgun. The worker complied and the alleged ran out of the store. He is described as as black male, approx 6’3” with a black mole near his nose. He was wearing a red hoodie, black sweat pants, and a mask over the bottom part of his face. Anyone with information is asked to contact White Oak Police Department at 903-759-0106 or Gregg County Crime Stoppers at 903-236-STOP (7867). The video from surveillance cameras is available by clicking the link. https://www.facebook.com/104389476316029/videos/2607920922865198/.

KILGORE — The city of Kilgore has issued a shelter in place order. While Gregg County issued a shelter in place on Wednesday, March 25, parts of Kilgore fall out of the jurisdiction. That prompted Kilgore Mayor Ronnie Spradlin to issue his own executive order of shelter in place for residents. The order went into effect Thursday, March 26 at 11:59 p.m. and ends on April 9. Continue reading East Texas Shelter in Place Orders

TYLER — Due to the coronavirus, many non-essential businesses have been shut down. This has caused companies to reduce employees’ hours and lay off workers. According to our news partner KETK, to help with unemployment, Workforce Solutions in Tyler is helping. The organization helps people apply for benefits and helps laid-off workers find new jobs. The office is closed to the public, but you can call (903) 561-8131 or visit their website. With unemployment reaching an all-time high, they are receiving a large number of calls. “We’ve had over 500 calls in a day,” said manager Stephen Lynch. East Texas workers dealing with job losses are adjusting to their new challenges. Workforce Solutions say the best way to apply for benefits is online. If you make a call to the call center, remember to be patient and persistent.

TYLER — Tyler ISD is supporting local hospitals and non-profits during mandated state school closures. “Tyler ISD loves our community and is willing to do what we can to care for our students, families, and community at large,” Dr. Marty Crawford said. “During this unprecedented time, the District is committed to providing whatever services or resources we can to help meet the needs of the community.” Continue reading Tyler ISD Gives Back during COVID-19 Crisis

SMITH COUNTY — Jenny Wells told KTBB, “as of noon Thursday, there are 21 cases of coronavirus in Smith County.” Wells continued, “if someone thinks they may have the coronavirus stay home period, and make sure to call ahead before going to the doctor, so they can have the personal protection equipment ready, and then you can come in and leave and go back home, don’t go to the store before you get the results.” Continue reading COVID-19 Update in Smith County: 21 Cases

TYLER — The city of Tyler is reminding residents that annual Smith County-Wide Clean Up originally scheduled for the week of March 30 has been postponed at this time. The Bulky Items Clean Up program will be rescheduled at a future time. The Recylcing center is closed as are all other city of Tyler Facilities.

MARSHALL — In a press release, Harrison County has reported their first case of COVID-19. Mayor Terri Brown has since issued a Declaration of Local Disaster and Public Health Emergency Related to Communicable Disease, in tandem with Harrison County Judge Chad Sims. Citizens are compelled to follow the Centers for Disease Control’s national guidelines and the Executive Order from Governor Greg Abbott, including restricting physical contact and social distancing. Click the link for complete details. https://www.facebook.com/marshalltexas.net/posts/1698615723623474?__tn__=K-R

LONGVIEW — According to our news partner KETK, late Thursday morning Longview ISD announced they would extend their campus closure for the next two weeks, until April 9. Gregg County is set to go into a mandatory shelter in place at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday night. Dr. James Wilcox said on the district facebook page, “Our campus leadership remains active in working with their teachers and parents in order to deliver instruction to our students in whatever means is most convenient for our families.” The Longview Superintendent went on to say, “At the same time, the work of our Child Nutrition and Transportation departments to provide meals for our families continues as well.”

TYLER — As the coronavirus continues to increase through out communities, the state and nation, The Salvation Army of Tyler says requests for service has increased and a further spike is expected in the next few weeks and months. Services remain in place for the homeless and others living near the poverty level, many people who have been able to pay their way prior to this outbreak may now face extreme difficulties due to mandated business closings. Continue reading Salvation Army Needs Help to Meet Increased Demands

GREGG COUNTY — On Wednesday Gregg County became the latest Texas County to issue a “MANDATORY SHELTER IN PLACE” following 2 more confirmed cases of COVID-19. The mandate begins at 11:59 p.m Thursday night and according to our news partner KETK, will remain in effect until April 9th at 11:59 p.m. On Wednesday Longview Mayor Andy Mack upgraded a voluntary shelter in place after 2 more cases were confirmed bringing the total number of cases to three in Gregg County and 28 in East Texas. For more information on the order, visit the Gregg County Facebook page.

SMITH COUNTY — The City of Hideaway has issued a shelter in place order for residents after a confirmed case of coronavirus. According to our news partner KETK, the order was issued on Wednesday by Mayor Ray Hutcheson and will limit activities within the city over the next seven days until April 1. Continue reading City of Hideaway Issues Shelter in Place Order

TYLER — An employee of the U.S. Postal Service at the Tyler Main Post Office has tested positive for COVID-19. According to our news partner KETK, USPS said it is in the process of reaching out to the local public health office and will follow the guidance officials provide. The service said it believes the risk is low for employees to get the coronavirus who work at the Tyler Main Post Office, but they will keep those employees updated as information and guidance becomes available. Continue reading Tyler Postal Worker Confirmed with COVID-19

MARSHALL — On Wednesday, East Texas Baptist University made the decision to finish out the Spring Semester online. The University said their Emergency Response Team has closely monitored the Coronavirus daily all across the U.S. Leaders say, “the Coronavirus global pandemic that we currently face in our country is the gravest public health crisis in the last century, and the rapid rate at which it has developed and spread across the globe has led to uncertainty. Continue reading ETBU to Finish Spring Semester Online

TYLER — On Wednesday the BBB of East Texas reminded residents to be aware of government impostors. “With COVID-19 cases continue to escalate,” President Mechele Mills says, “just as with any disaster which occurs, the number of scammers preying on your fear and your pocketbook grows along with it.” The BBB is alerting consumers about scammers impersonating government officials who are calling about the anticipated government relief fund checks. Continue reading BBB Alerting Consumers to Be Aware of COVID-19 Frauds

TYLER — The first death from coranivirus in Smith County was announced at a midday briefing held by the Smith County Emergency Command Center. Officials say the victim was a 91-year-old man. Despite the grim announcement, Tyler Mayor Martin Heines says he’s never seen such good inter-agency cooperation.  “After thousands of man hours worth of work, on the part of the city , the county, your hospitals, your North East Texas Public Health, your school districts, we are all together, and we are ready for this crisis, whichever turn it may take. We are ready and we are prepared, Heines said.” Continue reading Tyler Mayor Issues “Stay at Home” Request with 1st Coronavirus Death in Smith County

LONGVIEW — New Beginnings Baptist Church in Longview, recognizes there is more of a need to encourage people than ever. On Wednesday, NBBC Lead Pastor Todd Kounitz told KTBB, “they are trying to offer some tangible hope to people who may be a little overwhelmed.” The church is teamming up with 3 local school districts to help feed at-risk students while school campuses are closed due to the coronavirus. “We are attempting to help 200 plus families a week. This is our attempt to offer the hope of Jesus, in a practical way, that yes we do care, someone cares.” Pastor Kaunitz continued, “in the Gospels Jesus runs to those who are sick. He meets the needs of those who are hurting. We are trying to offer hope to the hurting.” If you want to help. If you want to get involved to help those in need, you may visit http://www.nbbctx.org/help.