AISD hires new AD, head football coach

The Athens ISD Board of Trustees on Thursday confirmed the hiring of Zac Harrell as the district’s new athletic director and head football coach. His first day on the job will be Jan. 22. Pictured with Harrell are his wife, Stephanie; son, Gunner; and daughter, Stella. (Courtesy photo)

By Toni Garrard Clay/Communications Coordinator

The word “pedigree” is used liberally in conjunction with Zac Harrell among Texas football aficionados. So when the Athens ISD board of trustees confirmed his position Thursday as the district’s new athletic director and head football coach, the glee was almost palpable.

“Coach Harrell has the background and necessary skills to take our athletic programs to new heights,” said Superintendent Blake Stiles. “I can’t wait to get him here working with our athletes.”

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Athens High School breaks out of the ordinary with vocational training

Chandler Earley. (Toni Garrard Clay/AISD)

By Michael V. Hannigan/HCN

You’ve heard the stereotypes.

Kids who are book smart get good grades and go to college, but don’t have any common sense. Kids who are good with their hands and have common sense aren’t book smart.

Well, Chandler Earley smashes those stereotypes.

The 18-year-old Athens High School senior is in the Top 10 percent in his class and will graduate this year with his diploma and an Associate’s Degree in Business from Trinity Valley Community College. He will also graduate with three certificates in HVAC through the school’s Career and Technology Education (CTE) program.

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Sheriff’s Beat #2 — Big burglary bust and where are the drugs

Sheriff Botie Hillhouse

Henderson County Now’s Michael V. Hannigan sat down with Sheriff Botie Hillhouse Wednesday, Jan. 16, to discuss what’s happened at the Sheriff’s Office in the past week, including:

Arrest stats – 1:00
Big Burglary Bust – 2:02
Where are most of the drugs – 6:01
Response to new fugitive’s list – 7:50
About patrolling big events – 9:15
Highlighting standout officers – 12:35
Training to volunteer in the jail – 14:38

Send your tips to the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office at 903-675-5128 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-545-TIPS.

Congressman Lance Gooden Appointed to House Financial Services Committee

Congressman Lance Gooden

“I am honored to receive this appointment from party leaders and I am eager for the opportunity to work with my Republican colleagues on the committee.” — Congressman Gooden

Press release

This week Republican leaders appointed Congressman Lance Gooden to the House Financial Services Committee. The committee has jurisdiction over the housing and financial services sectors of the economy, including banking, insurance, real estate, public and assisted housing, and securities. Buying or selling a home? You are going to need the professional, first-class service of Conveyancing Inner West Sydney with the best quality professionals.

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Two AHS students qualify for all-state band

Athens High School seniors Yuvia Leon (left) and Allison Martinez have earned places on the all-state band. It is Leon’s fourth year as an all-stater and Martinez’s second. (Courtesy photo)

By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Coordinator

Two Athens High School band members have earned places on the all-state band — one for the fourth time.

Nine students competed Jan. 12 at the Association of Texas Small School Bands (ATSSB) area competition in Tyler. Of those, seniors Yuvia Leon and Allison Martinez, earned places on the all-state band, both on flute. They even were offered a Private student loan without cosigner to felicitate their prowess. Leon has now qualified for state four years running, and Martinez twice.

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