Obituary: Major Brandon Hawn McElroy

On Tuesday, September 18, 2018, Major Brandon Hawn McElroy, of Athens, TX passed away at the age of 43.

Brandon was born on January 13, 1975 in Dallas, Texas to Ronald and JoAnne (Hawn) McElroy. After graduating from Athens in 1993, where he was a member of the 1992 District Football Champions, Brandon attended Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and Parson’s Mounted Cavalry. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in History in 1998. In 2004, Brandon earned his Master’s in History from Stephen F. Austin State University and was commissioned in the United States Army. Brandon served two tours in Iraq and one in Kuwait and was awarded numerous military honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, and Army Service Ribbon.

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First United Methodist Church of Mabank presents Gospel night as a part of Lord’s Acre Harvest Festival

Press release

MABANK — The First United Methodist Church of Mabank will celebrate their 23rd annual Lord’s Acre Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 13th, 2018, at the church, located at 501 South Third Street in Mabank. The Lord’s Acre Festival, named for the custom of farmers years ago who would dedicate an acre of land to the Lord and bring the produce raised on that acre to sell at a festival, has become a successful fundraiser that supports the church’s ministry to the youth of the Cedar Creek Lake area. Student ministry director Olivia Pannell is in her 1st year of working with area youth and has lots of great new ideas. The teens that attend weekly during our mid-week gathering on Wednesday nights are a diverse group and they are all building lasting relationships in faith.

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Nichols meets with local superintendents

Press release

ATHENS — Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) met with local superintendents from Henderson County. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss education issues in preparation for the 86th Legislature which convenes in January.

“The Legislature faces many challenges this session, and we cannot make good decisions unless we are listening closely to those we represent,” said Nichols. “Education is and always will be one of the most important issues we face as a state.”

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Around the Town: Plenty going on around Malakoff

By Loretta Humble/Around The Town

Swarms of hummingbirds arrived at my place less than two weeks ago. They were supposed to arrive when the honeysuckles bloom, but only a couple of strays showed up then. I wish somebody would tell me where these guys have been, but now that they have arrived, I can hardly keep my feeders full. I don’t mind buying more sugar. I love watching them. They make me happy.

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Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center Outdoor Expo Set for Sept. 29

Press release

ATHENS – Fish Spark is offering visitors opportunities to learn about a wide range of outdoor skills and participate in family fun events during its annual Outdoor Expo and Bluegill Family Fishing Tournament 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29. All kids 12 and under are admitted to TFFC free for this event.

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