By Michael V. Hannigan
Story 1 — April is Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Awareness month: April is Child Abuse Awareness and Sexual Assault Awareness month in Texas and, as is the custom in Henderson County, time for the people who fight against the violent scourge to come together.
Why it’s important: The East Texas Crisis Center has already helped 15 victims of sexual assault in just the first three months of 2013.
Read more: Here.
Story 2 — TVCC Lady Cardinals celebrates national title: Trinity Valley Community College held a community celebration for the 2013 NJCAA National Champion Lady Cardinals.
Why it’s important: Because national titles are always important, and this one was No. 7.
Read more: I wrote about why the community was so committed to this team.
Story 3 — April 20 is Go Blue Day: The District Attorney’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Office and Child Advocacy Center are promoting the Go Blue t-shirt campaign for the fifth straight year.
Why it’s important: See Top Story No. 1.
Read more: Here are the important details on the shirts.
Story 4 — ETMC eyes budget cuts: The East Texas Medical Center Regional Healthcare System announced this week it is planning 5 to 7 percent budget cuts.
Why it’s important: ETMC runs Henderson County’s hospital
Read more: The Athens Daily Review had the story.
Story 5 — Cheerleaders headed to national championship: The Trinity Valley Community College Cheerleaders are hoping to repeat history starting April 11 as they participate in national competition in Florida.
Why it’s important: The cheerleaders are looking for their 10th title.
Read more: Here is the info. on the public performance of the tournament routine.